COVID-19 UPDATE 

Burke County has been notified of the 47^th Covid related death.  The individual

was in their 50’s and was hospitalized, but died from Covid-19 related

complications.  Burke now has 2 thousand 4 hundred and 15 cumulative Covid-19

cases with 2 thousand and 66 recovered.  7 patients are hospitalized.  Catawba

County reported 13 new cases of Covid-19 yesterday for a total of 3 thousand 1

hundred 74 cumulative cases.  Of that number 2 thousand 7 hundred 50 have

recovered and 14 are hospitalized.  McDowell County reported 9 new cases of

Covid yesterday for a cumulative total of 9 hundred 40.  8 hundred 17 patients are

out of quarantine.  And Caldwell County reported 7 new cases of Covid yesterday

for a cumulative total of 1 thousand 6 hundred 91.  1 thousand 65 patients have

recovered and 23 are hospitalized.

App Student Dies from Covid

An App student has died with Covid 19.    19 year old Chad Dorrill, a sophomore

exercise science major, died Monday night at Forsyth Medical Center in Winston

Salem. The campus was notified on Tuesday afternoon of Dorrill’s death by the

Chancellor.    Dorrill lived off campus and all of his classes were online.  He was

diagnosed earlier this month with Covid-19 and suffered from later complications.

 

Caldwell Schools Will Go to Plan “A”  

The Caldwell County Board of Education has approved the state’s Plan “A”

reopening format for elementary schools grades K-5.  The Board decided in a

special session held yesterday to allow elementary schools to reopen on Monday,

October 19^th, the first day of the 2^nd 9 week grading period.  Elementary schools

will still require health screenings, face coverings, frequent hand washing and

social distancing as often as feasibly possible.  Students may continue to opt for

full remote learning through Caldwell Connect.

The Hickory City School Board voted 4-3 to remain on hybrid learning at least until

January of 2021.  The elementary schools will continue with two day a week in

class instruction instead of possibly four or five days.  A survey of 1 thousand 3

hundred and 21 parents indicated 61 percent wished their children to return to

schools five days a week, but faculty and staff stressed the importance of safety.

Catawba County Schools will allow 2^nd and 3^rd graders to return to four day a

week in class instruction beginning October 20^th, and 4^th and 5^th grade students to

return to class four days a week on November 30^th.  Friday will be a remote

learning day for both groups of students.  A survey in Catawba County of parents

showed 81 percent wanted their students to return on Plan “A” in grades 2 thru 5. 

52% of the staff also supported the return to Plan “A”.

Stolen Vehicle Recovered in Lincoln County

Lincoln County deputies recovered a vehicle stolen from Gastonia while

responding to a call around 4:30 a.m. yesterday.   Deputies had responded to a

breaking into motor vehicles call on Shiloh Run Lane when they encountered a

Mazda CX5.  A neighbor, leaving for work, gave officers a description of a male

and female who were standing with the vehicle and officers located them a short

time later.  18 year old Calvin Alexander Fair of Gastonia was charged with one

felony count of breaking and entering a motor vehicle and one misdemeanor

count of attempted breaking and entering a motor vehicle.  He was placed in jail

under a ten thousand dollar secured bond.  The woman was not charged.

 

Area Covid Weekend Wrapup

Catawba County Public Health was notified of 14 new Covid 19 cases yesterday

bringing the cumulative total to 3 thousand, 1 hundred and 44.  Of that number 2

thousand 7 hundred and 60 have recovered and 15 patients are hospitalized. 

Burke County reported 2 thousand 3 hundred and 68 cumulative Covid-19 cases

yesterday.  2 thousand and 52 have recovered and 8 are hospitalized.  Caldwell

County reported six new Covid-19 cases yesterday for a cumulative total of 1

thousand 6 hundred 66.  9 hundred 98 patients have recovered and 22 are

hospitalized.  McDowell County reported 14 new Covid-19 cases Friday for a

cumulative total of 8 hundred 96.  8 hundred and six patients are out of

quarantine.

Two Shot in Hickory

Two people were shot, one fatally, outside an apartment complex in Hickory early

Sunday morning.  Hickory Police were called to 98 3^rd Avenue South East around

2:22 a.m. where they found 20 year old Armstrong Shadrac Seme injured from

multiple gunshot wounds. Catawba EMS transported Seme to Frye Regional

Medical Center where he later died.  28 year old Jalen Michael Marquis Shade of

Hickory was transported to Frye Regional Medical Center by bystanders prior to

the police arrival.  Shade was transferred to Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center

where he is listed in stable condition.  Witnesses state three black males in dark

clothing and Covid like face masks approached Jalen Shade as he stood outside

the Sunny Valley Apartments.  One male engaged in conversation with Shade

before shooting him several times.  Armstrong Seme, who was a bystander, was

struck  by multiple shots.  Anyone having any information or who could identify

the suspect should contact the Hickory Police Department.  Authorities are

looking for a black male, about 5 feet 7 inches tall last seen wearing dark clothing

and a dark colored Covid style face mask.

Sexual Misconduct Charge

A 37 year old Connelly Spring man has been arrested and charged with felony

indecent liberties with a child.  Jim Ping Hung was arrested at his residence Friday

without incident and placed in the Burke County Jail under a 25 thousand dollar

secured bond.  The NC Department of Health and Human Services Child

Protective Services reported the allegations of sexual misconduct on a five year

old child.  The Sheriff’s Department investigated and a warrant was issued.  Hung

is due to make his first appearance in court today.

Valdese Trick or Treat

The annual Valdese “Treats in the Streets” will take place on Friday, October 30^th

from 4-6 p.m. with a new twist.  Valdese will feature several stops spread

throughout the town hosted by local merchants, attractions and town

departments where little ghosts and goblins can drive thru and get treats without

getting out of their cars.  Attendees are encouraged to tour in their most amazing

costumes, or even better with decorated vehicles.  All participating stations will

be featured on an interactive map shared at townofvaldese dot com by October

26^th, along with other Covid safe events.

 

COVID-19 UPDATES

19 new positive cases of COVID-19 Thursday as reported by Burke County raising the county’s total of positive cases to 2-thousand-332. McDowell had 7 new cases for a total of 882. Catawba saw an increase of 30 cases for a total of 3-thousand-82, and Caldwell reported 12 new cases, for a total of 1-thousand-660.

In their news release Thursday afternoon, the Burke County Health Department is strongly encouraging residents to get a flu shot this year to reduce the number of flu cases, in light of the already widespread coronavirus.

Residents can get a flu shot at the health department, their health care provider or local pharmacy.

Officials say it takes about two weeks for the flu vaccine to work well, so they recommend getting it early.

Drive thru flu shot clinics will be held at the health department 700 East Parker Road in Morganton October 6^th through the 8^th.

Appointments are preferred by drive ins are welcome.

For more information, call the Burke Health Department at 764-9150.

Car Markings

Hickory Police are investigating occurrences of markings on car windows.

A news release issued today says the department has received several reports of the markings that have not resulted in harm to citizens.

The release goes on to say that the department has not been alerted by state or federal authorities of information that indicates criminals are marking vehicles for any known purpose.

According to the release, the department states the reports received do not match the normal criteria for human trafficking.

An organization that tracks human trafficking and promotes awareness says most traffickers use psychological means such as tricking, defrauding or threatening victims.

Hickory Police report they are taking all reports seriously and will fully investigate.

Guns and Ammo Stolen

Authorities in McDowell County are looking for a suspect who stole guns and ammunition from a Nebo home last month.

A Biggerstaff Loop resident reported someone entered his residence and removed a Glock-20 10 mm pistol, a Glock-19 9 mm pistol, a Savage Axis 6-point-5 Creedmore rifle and ammunition.

The theft happened sometime between August 16^th and August 21^st.

Anyone having information about the crime should call Detective Watson at 652-2237 or Crimestoppers at 65-CRIME.

Meth and Pills

A traffic stop by a McDowell County deputy leads to the arrest of a Nebo woman on drug possession charges.

32-year-old Misty Dawn Tipton of Calico Drive was pulled by the officer on August 21^st for having a fictitious tag.

A search of her belongings turned up a gram of meth and two hydrocodone pills.

The officer also discovered Tipton was wanted for failure to appear.

Teen Killed

A teenage boy was reportedly shot and killed Wednesday afternoon in Lincoln County.

The shooting occurred around 3:40 pm on Highland Drive in Lincolnton.

Police reports identify the boy as 13-year-old Gabriel Teems who died at the scene.

Reports say 18-year-old Matthew Eric Combs was arrested and charged with second-degree murder and jailed without bond 

Details that led to the shooting have not been released.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

COVID-19 UPDATE

Burke County has the lowest rise in COVID-19 positive cases in months as local public health officials report 4 new cases, bringing the county’s total to 2-thousand-313 positives. McDowell County reported 8 new cases bringing the total to 875 with one

additional death bringing the total to 28. Caldwell County saw an increase of 18 new cases for a total of 1-thousand-648 and Catawba County with 24 additional cases for a total of 3-thousand-052.

A Burke County news release this afternoon highlights a recent update to the fight against COVID issued by the state department of health and human services.

On Tuesday, the state launched the ‘SlowCOVIDNC’ exposure notification app.

The release says the app will help NC residents slow the spread of the virus by alerting them when they may have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for the virus.

Reports say it is anonymous and does not collect, store, or share personal information or location data.

It is voluntary to download and is designed to enhance the state’s existing contact tracing efforts.

To learn more about the SlowCOVIDNC app, visit covid19.ncdhhs.gov/slowcovidnc.

Spooky Meadows Canceled

Morganton Parks and Recreation Department has canceled Spooky Meadows this year due to the ongoing threat of COVID-19.

Instead of holding the annual event, the Parks and Recreation Department will hold a drive-thru trick-or-treat event at the Collett Street Recreation Center from 4-7pm on Friday, October 23.

To participate in the drive-thru trick-or-treat at the Rec Center, citizens will need to drive up to the front of the building, receive their pre-packaged bag of candy from a staff member, and drive away.

 Staff will be wearing costumes in order to keep the Halloween spirit alive, and all children participating in the event are encouraged to wear costumes as well.

For more information on the event, contact Morganton Parks and Recreation Department at 828-438-5350.

Spooky Meadows Canceled

Morganton Parks and Recreation Department has canceled Spooky Meadows this year due to the ongoing threat of COVID-19.

Instead of holding the annual event, the Parks and Recreation Department will hold a drive-thru trick-or-treat event at the Collett Street Recreation Center from 4-7pm on Friday, October 23.

To participate in the drive-thru trick-or-treat at the Rec Center, citizens will need to drive up to the front of the building, receive their pre-packaged bag of candy from a staff member, and drive away.

 Staff will be wearing costumes in order to keep the Halloween spirit alive, and all children participating in the event are encouraged to wear costumes as well.

For more information on the event, contact Morganton Parks and Recreation Department at 828-438-5350.

Death by Distribution

A Marion woman faces a felony charge following an investigation into a drug-related death that occurred in May.

Previous reports reveal 52-year-old Danica Freeman was found deceased inside her residence on Charlie Drive in Marion.

Detectives discovered Fentanyl in her home, and an autopsy confirmed the drug contributed to her death.

An investigation into Freeman’s death led to the arrest of 33-year-old Melanie Lynn Phillips of Apache Path in Marion.

Phillips allegedly sold Freeman the drugs according to a news release issued by the McDowell Sheriff’s Office.

She has been charged with death by distribution, and is confined under a 100-thousand dollar bond.

 

 

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Area COVID-19 Update

Burke County Public Health has reported two additional deaths that

were COVID-19 related and both died from COVID-19 complications.

The 42^nd death was an individual in their 90’s, not hospitalized, and

the 43^rd death was a person in their 80’s and was hospitalized before

dying. Burke County reported 21 new cases on Tuesday for a total of

2309. In McDowell County, the Health Department reported 10 new

cases of COVID-19, bringing the number of positives to 867.

Caldwell County reported 6 additional cases Tuesday for a total of

1,630 with Catawba County reporting 15 new cases of COVID-19 for

a cumulative total of 3,028.

Grants to Area Park and Rec Depts

Several area communities have been awarded grants for parks and

recreation projects. Governor Cooper announced on Monday that

grants were awarded to fund projects across the state, including

recipients in Watauga, Iredell and Caldwell counties. The Granite

Falls Recreation Center Expansion was awarded a grant of $250,000.

In Iredell County, the Recreation Center was awarded $425,000 and

in Watauga County, the Boone Greenway Skate Park was awarded

a grant of $72,500. The Parks and Recreation Trust Fund, which

awarded the grants, is administered through the state Division of

Parks and Recreation.

Tree Planting

Foothills Conservancy of North Carolina is partnering with the City

of Morganton for a tree planting Friday at Catawba Meadows Park.

The free event will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and a free

lunch will be provided. Volunteers must be 16 or older and will be

responsible for placing an assortment of maple, oak and dogwood

trees into pre-dug holes and re-packing loose soil. Disinfectant

spray, hand sanitizer and masks will be provided, but volunteers

are encouraged to bring their own as well.

 

Burke COVID

13 new positive cases of COVID-19 in Burke County since Saturday, bringing the total of positives to 2-thousand-288 since the pandemic began.

Data from the county’s website shows 254 cases are active, 1-thousand-985 are recovered, and 4 are hospitalized.

Local public health officials have announced rapid COVID-19 testing to be conducted at a Burke County business.

The rapid testing began Monday, and will be held on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from Noon until 2 pm at East Burke Pharmacy.

The fee is 75-dollars, and workers there will not be filing insurance.

Results of the rapid testing are returned by the end of the day, and the testing is a drive-thru service by appointment only.

The number to call for an appointment is 397-3420.

An outside tent where the testing is being conducted is set up at the rear of the pharmacy.

Elsewhere, McDowell County reports 9 new positive cases Monday, bringing their total to 857 positives. Caldwell County reported 17 new cases of COVID, with a new total

1-thousand-624 and Catawba County now has 3 thousand-13 total cases of positive COVID-19.

Drug Trafficker Caught

A Marion man on the run for more than a month on drug trafficking charges has been apprehended.

29-year-old William Kyle Lytle of Holly Street, reports say, has eluded authorities since mid-August, but was located and arrested September 15^th.

Reports with the McDowell Sheriff’s Office say attempts were made to stop Lytle on US 221 while driving a motorcycle with no tag on August 21^st.

Lytle reportedly tried to flee from the officer by speeding up, driving recklessly nearing hitting another vehicle head-on, and then wrecking into a ditch.

Lytle was transported to the hospital and later left without notifying authorities.

A search of his belongings at the accident site turned up more than 38 grams of heroin, and 89 grams of meth.

Lytle has been charged with two counts of trafficking in meth, two counts of trafficking in heroin, and one count of maintaining a vehicle to keep a controlled substance.

He was also served with a violation of his post-release supervision.

Fatal Wreck

One person was killed, and another injured in a collision on I-40 in Catawba County early Monday morning.

The state highway patrol reports two vehicles collided in the eastbound lanes around 3:45 near Exit 133.

Reports say one person died at the scene, and another sustained injuries.

The crash caused the closure of both eastbound lanes for a time.

The interstate reopened around 6 am.

Sex Assault

A Lincoln County man has been charged with child sexual assault.

Reports from the Lincoln Sheriff’s Office indicate the department had received information on September 12^th about a child who had allegedly been sexually assaulted by 68-year-old Donald Charles Curtis of Lincolnton.

A news release says the victim was interviewed and the abuse was disclosed.

Officials determined the female victim is related to Curtis.

Curtis is charged with three felony counts of indecent liberties with a child.

He was jailed under a 45-thousand dollar secured bond.

 

 

# 

 

 

 

 

 

 

COVID-19 UPDATE

Caldwell County Public Health was notified yesterday of the 26^th Covid-19 related

death in the County.  The patient was between the ages of 65 and 74 and was

hospitalized and reported to have underlying medical conditions.  Caldwell

reported 9 new cases of Covid-19 yesterday, bringing the cumulative total to 1

thousand 5 hundred and 87.  9 hundred and 26 patients have recovered. 

Catawba County Public Health was notified of 30 new cases of Covid-19 yesterday

bringing the cumulative total there to 2 thousand 8 hundred and 96.  2 thousand

6 hundred and 43 patients have recovered and 15 are hospitalized.  Burke

County reported 2 thousand 2 hundred and 17 cases yesterday.  1 thousand 9

hundred and 21 patients have recovered and 4 are hospitalized.  In McDowell

County there were 7 new cases of Covid-19 yesterday for a cumulative total of 8

hundred 37.  7 hundred and 54 patients are out of quarantine.

Old Shelby Road Closed Briefly

A tractor-trailer overturned on Old Shelby Road at the I-40 overpass in Longview

yesterday.  The driver was able to climb out of the rig, but the accident closed

down Old Shelby Road for a period of time as firefighters assessed the situation.

Weekend Closure in Hickory

A part of NC 127 will be closed this weekend in Hickory as City Walk Contractors

set steel girders for the pedestrian bridge.  NC 127 will be closed between 1^st

Avenue South East and First Avenue Northeast from 6 p.m. Friday thru 6 a.m.

Monday.  Detour routes will be established and clearly marked.

 

 

COVID-19 UPDATE

Burke County reported 2 thousand 1 hundred 93 cumulative Covid-19 cases

yesterday.  The Health Department said 1 thousand 9 hundred 18 patients have

recovered and six patients are hospitalized.  Catawba County reported 18 new

cases yesterday for a cumulative total of 2 thousand 8 hundred and 65.  2

thousand 5 hundred 46 patients have recovered and 13 are hospitalized.  Caldwell

County reported 11 new Covid-19 cases yesterday for a cumulative total of 1

thousand 5 hundred 78.  9 hundred 59 have recovered and 22 are hospitalized. 

McDowell County reported 7 new cases yesterday for a total of 8 hundred 37.  7

hundred 54 patients have recovered.

Catawba Schools Locked Down  

Three Northeast Catawba County schools were placed on soft lock down

yesterday morning after deputies searched near the area for a suspect in a car

crash.  St. Stephens, Clyde Campbell Elementary and Snow Creek Elementary

were placed on soft lock down for several hours.  Officers had been called to Kool

Park Road about the possibility of someone dealing drugs out of a car.  The car

took off as law enforcement approached and a chase occurred.  The driver

crashed the vehicle and ran from the car into woods.  Patrols around the schools

were increased and extra deputies were in the area as the search continued

throughout the day.

Arrest in Marion  

A 51 year old Jacktown Road resident has been charged with possession of stolen

goods and damage to personal property in connection with a report of a stolen

Honda 4-wheeler and other items on August 18^th.  The McDowell Sheriff’s Office

said an Old Fort man had reported the items stolen from property on Hoyles

Orchard Road.  The ATV was later located at the home of Robert Luther Dover, Jr

whom officers charged.

Denver Woman Charged in Breaking and Entering 

A Denver woman has been charged with breaking into a building and stealing

tools valued at approximately one thousand dollars.  55 year old Allison Leigh

Dunn of Todd Lane pawned items similar to those stolen in the breakin on Hickory

Creek Drive, September 10^th.  A security camera at the home caught the theft on

tape.  The items were recovered from the Trading Post on NC 16 Highway and

returned to the owner.  Dunn was placed in the Harven A Crouse Detention

Center under a  four thousand dollar secured bond.

Duke Energy Prepares for Heavy Rainfall

Duke Energy is lowering lakes to prepare for heavy rainfall expected from

Hurricane Sally across the Carolinas this week.  A press release from Duke Energy

says they are aggressively moving water through the Natahala, Catawba, Yadkin

and Keowee-Toxaway river basins.  The press release says lake residents should

prepare for possible flooding conditions and closely monitor lake levels, as well as

follow the directions from emergency managers.  Duke Energy is posting real-time

updates on duke dash energy dot com slash lakes..  

 

COVID-19 UPDATE

Burke County’s number of positive cases grows by 16 since Saturday; as health officials also report the 41^st virus-associated death.

In a news release, public health report the individual was in their 90’s, was hospitalized, but died from their underlying medical conditions.

The number of positive cases in Burke now stands at 2-thousand-181; with 213 cases reported as being active, 1-thousand-913 having recovered, and 8 being hospitalized.

Burke health officials stress the importance of giving correct names when getting a COVID-19 test.

They ask that test-takers give officials the name that is on your birth certificate, not a nickname or name you may go by.

They also ask you give your correct address so positive numbers can be directed and counted in the proper county.

Health workers in McDowell County reported 5 additional positive cases Monday, and also one additional death for a total of 830 positives and 27 deaths.

Catawba County reported 13 new cases Monday for a total of 2-thousand -847

while Caldwell County reported 9 new cases for a total of 1-thousand-557.

Flu Vaccine Urged

State health officials are urging NC residents to protect themselves, their families, and those around them to get vaccinated against influenza as the state enters flu season amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The CDC recommends a flu vaccination for everyone 6 months and older.

The flu vaccine can make the illness milder and reduce the risk of more serious outcomes; especially important for those at higher risk of complications – those over 65, children younger than 5, pregnant women, and those with medical conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease.

Some of those same groups are also at high risk of complications from COVID-19; which is why health officials say the flu vaccine is critically important.

In NC, flu infections are most common from late fall to early spring with activity usually peaking in January or February.

 

 BCPS Return

Burke County students and teachers returned to the classroom Monday as the first day of in-person learning this school year.

The school district is transitioning to Plan B after beginning the year as all-virtual.

Plan B allows some students in the classroom on Mondays and Thursdays, others attend Tuesdays and Fridays, while Wednesdays entail all-remote learning.

The plan thereby limits the number of students and teachers on campus at one time.

School officials in Burke report safety precautions are in place and are being enforced to keep everyone healthy; including hand washing requirements, social distancing, and face covering mandates.

Mail Theft

A Nebo man has been charged in connection to mail theft in McDowell County.

Reports with the McDowell Sheriff’s Office say that someone had stolen checks from a mailbox at Dover Insulation on US 70 West August 5^th.

28-year-old Joseph Devon Miller has been charged with larceny and forgery after Dover Insulation received a copy of one the checks.

The check had been altered to display Miller’s name in the Pay to the Order of section.

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

COVID-19 UPDATE

Burke County public health reports 12 new positive cases of COVID-19 since Saturday, pushing Burke’s new total to 2-thousand-107.

The county’s website states 222 cases are active, with 1-thousand-841 residents having recovered and 9 still hospitalized.

Catawba County reported 2 additional cases Monday with a total now of 2-thousand-730.

In Catawba, 2-thousand 438 are reported as recovered, and 12 remain hospitalized.

Caldwell County reported 16 new positive cases for a total of 1-thousand 492 with 22 people still hospitalized.

Burke County public health officials remind those gathering for Labor Day festivities to remain six feet away from others, wear a face covering, and wash your hands frequently.

Tubing Rescue

A Labor Day holiday water activity turns into a rescue situation for a family in Catawba County late Sunday.

According to reports, a woman and her three children ages 9 to 13 were tubing along a riverway when the group became trapped.

The woman reportedly was able to free herself and go to a nearby restaurant to summon authorities.

Rescue workers then responded to the Henry Fork River at the Highway 321 overpass just before midnight.

Reports say the children were all brought to safety as firefighters used a ladder truck to assist in the rescue effort.

Iredell Fatal

An early Monday shooting in Iredell County today leaves one dead and another in custody.

Reports say the shooting took place in the Union Grove area near Interstate-77 around 6:30.

Initial reports state one person was found dead in a field, while a second person was taken into custody at a nearby residence.

Officials have not yet indicated circumstances surrounding the shooting.

Spruce Pine Shooting

An investigation is underway after reports say an armed suspect was shot by Spruce Pine Police over the weekend.

Reports state the suspect was armed with a knife on Sunday when shot by officers.

The State Bureau of Investigation is looking into the incident.

Officers involved in the shooting have been placed on administrative leave until the investigation is completed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

COVID-update

Public health in Catawba County Sunday reported 2-thousand-728 positive cases of COVID-19. 12 people are still hospitalized, and 48 individuals have died.

McDowell County Friday afternoon reported a second outbreak of the virus at a long term care facility.

Public health officials are closely monitoring the outbreak at Cedarbrook Residential Center in Nebo and following procedures to prevent further spread of COVID-19.

McDowell County has a total of 792 positive cases, with 61 individuals still in quarantine.

Burke County public health Friday afternoon reported the 37th COVID-19 associated death in the county. As of Saturday, Burke had 2-thousand-95 positive cases of COVID.

Caldwell County, as of Friday had 1-thousand-476 positive cases of COVID-19.

SHP Campaign

The Governor’s Highway Safety Program, more than 500 law enforcement organizations statewide and the state highway patrol are participating in the Booze It and Lose It campaign throughout the Labor Day holiday.

Roads are typically congested over the holiday weekend, and troopers say that makes sober driving even more important.

In addition to watching for impaired or drunk drivers, officers will also focus on speeding, aggressive driving, and driving while distracted.

Officials say motorists should expect to see a lot of law enforcement on the roadways over the weekend.

Last year, statistics show the NC highway patrol responded to more than 13-hundred crashes throughout the Labor Day weekend.

Of those crashes, 94 occurred due to alcohol or drug impairment.

The Booze It and Lose It campaign began Monday and concludes on Sunday September 13^th.

Morganton Playground Opens

Morganton Parks and Recreation opened the city’s playgrounds and splash pads on Saturday. The splash pads are set to remain open through the month.

City officials remind visitors that while some recreation amenities reopened, practicing the three W’s is of the utmost importance to prevent the spread of COVID-19 – wear your mask, wash your hands, and wait at least six feet apart from others.

Park restrooms reopened as well, and city staff are sanitizing parks and facilities daily while using a third party company to deep clean facilities being used.

For additional information, contact Morganton Parks and Recreation at 438-5350.

Additionally, Morganton City offices are closed today in observance of Labor Day.

Trash pickup is on a one-day delay all week.

Stolen Signs

Lincoln County authorities are investigating recent numerous complaints regarding stolen political signs.

The Lincoln Sheriff’s Office reports the complaints have come from both the Democrat and republican parties over the past few weeks, and involve mostly presidential signs.

Home security systems have captured some of the sign thefts.

The NC General Statute regarding sign regulation states it is a Class-3 misdemeanor for a person to steal, deface, vandalize or unlawfully remove a political sign.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

COVID-19 UPDATE

Caldwell County Public Health was notified of the 21^st Covid-19 associated death

yesterday as the county’s cumulative totals rose by 25 new cases.  The patient

was over the age of 75 and was hospitalized with underlying medical conditions. 

Caldwell now has 14 hundred 60 cumulative cases with 8 hundred 39 patients

recovered and 18 hospitalized.  Catawba County reported 12 new cases yesterday

for a cumulative total of 2 thousand 6 hundred and 68.  2 thousand 4 hundred 38

patients have recovered and 12 are hospitalized.  Burke County now has 2

thousand 68 cumulative Covid-19 cases.  1 thousand 7 hundred 71 have

recovered and 8 are hospitalized.  McDowell County reported 3 new Covid-19

cases yesterday for a cumulative total of 7 hundred 79.  6 hundred 90 patients

have recovered.

Burke County Teacher Dies

A Burke County Public School teacher passed away unexpectedly yesterday in her

classroom at W.A Young Elementary School.  Dr. Larry Putnam informed Burke

County Public School staff via an email, that fifty year old Cindy Grindstaff, a 5^th

grade teacher had passed away.  Wednesday was one of the system’s

professional development days for staff, and teachers were not participating in

Zoom sessions with students. Ms. Grindstaff had been with the school system

since August of 2002.

Shooting in Catawba County

One person was critically injured in a shooting in Catawba County yesterday that

locked down three schools for a brief period of time.  Catawba County Sheriff’s

Officers responded to the report of a shooting on 28^th Street Northeast off Kool

Park Road and found a 39 year old male adjacent to a vehicle at the intersection

of Kool Park Road and 29^th Street Northwest.  The victim was taken to Catawba

Valley Medical Center with a gunshot wound to the chest.  He is listed in critical

condition.  An additional person, an 18 year old male, was found on 28^th Street

Northeast and was also injured.  He was treated and released at Catawba Valley

Medical Center.  St. Stephens High School, Arndt Middle School and Snow Creek

Elementary School were placed on temporary lockdown due to the incident.

Four Felony Drug Arrest At the Same House in Multiple Days

Catawba County deputies made four felony drug arrests at the same house in six

days.  Officers were called to a residence on Viewpoint Road in Newton to assist a

North Carolina Probation search on August 26^th.  45 year old Phillip Anthony

Godfrey of Newton and 51 year old Jeffrey Ben Pavkovich of Gainesville, Georgia

were arrested and charged with trafficking meth after 11 pounds of meth and $31

thousand 8 hundred 76 dollars in US currency were found.  Both men made bond

and were released.  A report of suspicious activity at the same residence on

September 1^st instigated another search where two people fled on foot.  Arrested

were Christopner Godfrey and Phillip Godfrey who were jailed under possession

with intent to sell and deliver meth, possession of marijuana and resisting a public

officer. 1.4 ounces of meth, marijuana, a firearm, and approximately 15 thousand

dollars in cash were seized.  Christopher Godfrey was jailed under 20 thousand

dollars bond and Phillip Godfrey under one hundred thousand dollars bond.

Credentialed Advocate

Catawba County District Attorney’s Office Legal Assistant Belinda Gaither has

been recognized as a Credentialed Advocate to assist victims of violent crime. 

Gaither, an Iredell County resident who has been with the DA’s Office for four

years, earned the distinction from the National Advocate Credentialing Program

after completing training at the state and national levels.

COVID-19 UPDATE

Governor Cooper announced a slight progression into Phase 2-point-5 Tuesday afternoon which goes into effect Friday and remains effective until October 2^nd.

Governor Cooper says gyms, museums, aquariums and playgrounds may re-open at a reduced capacity of 30-percent.

Movie theaters, bars & night clubs, amusement parks, and gaming establishments remain closed.

The governor’s new directive allows indoor mass gatherings of 25, and outdoor gatherings of up to 50.

In Tuesday afternoon’s address, Cooper also encouraged citizens to continue to wash hands frequently, wear face coverings, and social distance.

Burke County reported 31 new positive cases of COVID-19 Tuesday, with Catawba County recording 12 new cases and McDowell and Caldwell counties just 2 each.

Alex Lee Purchase

Hickory-based Alex Lee Incorporated announces their purchase of 20 Bi-Lo stores in South Carolina and Georgia. 

Reports indicate the newly-purchased stores will remain open as Bi-Lo stores until the transaction is complete, which will take place over a staggered period from now until November.

Officials with Alex Lee say they plan to operate 15 of the stores under the KJ’s Market IGA brand and five stores under the Lowes Foods brand.

Alex Lee expects to hire more than 2-thousand employees in the communities where the 20 stores are located.

No purchase price for the stores was disclosed.

US 321 Wreck

A jack-knifed tractor trailer resulted in a traffic snarl Tuesday afternoon for Caldwell and Catawba County motorists.

The accident took place on the Caldwell county side of the bridge on US Highway 321 that spans the Catawba River and Lake Hickory.

Reports say firefighters from Granite Falls and Hickory were called to the scene to contain a fuel spill.

The state highway patrol is investigating, as they report there were no serious injuries.

For a time, traffic was halted on US 321 traveling in and out of Caldwell County.

COVID-19 UPDATE

Burke County health officials reported on Monday that the total count now stands at 2-thousand-21 positive cases of COVID-19.

Of that number, the county’s website reports 238 cases are active, 1-thousand-742 residents have recovered, and 7 remain hospitalized.

McDowell County public health reports 24 additional positives Monday, with a current total of 774 positive cases.

McDowell officials also reported an additional death as a result of the virus, which

brings McDowell’s death toll to 26. 

98 individuals in McDowell are in quarantine, while 650 are out of quarantine.

Caldwell County reported 17 new cases, with a total of 1-thousand-433 and 21

remain hospitalized.

In Catawba County, 7 additional cases of COVID-19 were reported for a total of

2-thousand-644 and 13 people are hospitalized.

Alexander Shooting

An intruder demanding money reportedly shot an Alexander County man in his home Friday morning.

A news release from the Alexander County Sheriff’s Office says the victim was transported to an area hospital for treatment.

Reports say the shooting happened at a residence on Steel Bridge Loop in the Bethlehem Community.

The victim, reports say, told authorities the intruder entered his home shortly after 8 am, demanding money and his wallet.

The two scuffled and the victim reports he was then shot by the intruder.

The suspect was dressed in black with lettering on the front of his shirt and wore a black mask.

Anyone having information about the incident should call the Alexander Sheriff’s Office at 828-632-2911 or Crimestoppers at 828-632-8555.

Hickory Shooting

Shots fired into an occupied vehicle in Hickory Monday afternoon leaves one man injured according to reports.

A Facebook posting states someone shot into a vehicle traveling on 16^th Street Northeast striking the driver.

The posting further states the male subject stated he had been shot in the shoulder as he went inside the Cubbard Express for help.

An eyewitness to the shooting was apparently a passenger in the victim’s car, and stated the incident occurred after the victim looked over at another vehicle.

But the eyewitness further stated they did not believe it was a case of road rage.

An investigation is continuing.

Meth and Gun

McDowell County Sheriff's deputies and the NC Highway Patrol find drugs and a gun at the scene of a motor vehicle accident on August 7^th.

Around 1:30 am, officers responded to the reported mishap on Interstate-40.

There they discovered 35-year-old Todd Michael Ollis of Marion who had passed out behind the wheel of his pickup after driving off the roadway.

Further investigation revealed 7 grams of meth and a handgun in Ollis’ possession.

He was charged with meth possession and possession of a firearm by a felon.