COVID Update

82 new cases of COVID-19 in Burke County since Monday; that according to figures on the Burke County Health Department’s on-line dashboard.

Burke County’s total is now 15-thousand-17, with 1-thousand-41 cases reported to be active while 48 residents remain in the hospital.

McDowell County Tuesday reported 57 new cases, with 3 additional virus-related deaths.

McDowell’s total is 8-thousand-158 with 475 in quarantine.*

Remember, today a vaccination clinic will be held at WPCC’s Hildebrand Hall in Morganton from 9 am to 3 pm. Appointments are not required.

They will be administering the Pfizer; first, second, and booster doses only.

BRHC Announcement

Carolina’s Healthcare System Blue Ridge Morganton will officially become part of UNC Health Friday morning.

Healthcare officials from both entities will be hosting the media announcement Friday and will be unveiling the new UNC Health logo.

The healthcare system’s announcement will take place at the Blue Ridge Morganton campus on South Sterling Street.

Chase and Shots Fired

A multi-county chase, shots fired at a law enforcement officer, and possession of stolen property leads to the arrest of a Claremont man Monday evening.

A release from the Burke County Sheriff’s Office says a deputy observed a pick up pulling a trailer near Hildebran Mountain Avenue around 9:45.

Reports say the vehicle matched the description of a truck pulling a trailer that had been reported stolen.

The officer attempted a vehicle stop, when reports say the subject fled onto Highway 18 South, reaching speeds over 100 miles per hour.

As the driver reached Catawba County, he fired three shots at the pursuing deputy.

The chase continued into Cleveland County, then back to the Catawba and Lincoln County line.

The driver fired another round at the Burke officer before wrecking on Highway 10 West in Catawba County. The subject then jumped and ran into a residential area.Catawba and Cleveland County deputies along with the state highway patrol joined the search.

The subject was tracked using a Cleveland County K-9 and was found hiding in brush with a 38-caliber revolver and narcotics.

He was arrested just before 11 pm and identified as 51-year-old Michael Darren Mehaffey.

Mehaffey had 12 unserved pending charges from Catawba County and was additionally charged by Burke authorities with 5 felony charges in Monday night’s incident.

He was jailed under a 290-thousand dollar secured bond with a court date set for today.

 

 

 

 

COVID Update

Over the weekend, Burke County saw 146 new cases of COVID-19 for a total of 14-thousand-935.

The highest increase in cases continues to be among those under 40 years of age.

Public health officials report just over a thousand cases remain active, while 48 residents remain hospitalized.*

Yesterday, McDowell County reported 102 new cases from the weekend and 2 additional virus related deaths.

McDowell’s total is now 8-thousand-101 with 418 people in quarantine.

The Burke County Health Department is also authorized to administer the Pfizer booster.

Call 764-9150 to schedule an appointment and have your vaccination card on

hand.

Health officials announce a couple of up-coming vaccination clinics.

Wednesday September 29^th a clinic will be held at WPCC’s Hildebrand Hall from 9 am to 3 pm. Appointments are not required.

They will be administering the Pfizer; first, second, and booster doses only.

On Friday October 1^st there will be a clinic at Catawba Brewery in Morganton 4 until 7 pm. No appointment necessary.

They will be administering all three Pfizer vaccines, Moderna, and J & J.

Morganton Death

A Morganton man is in custody as a person of interest in connection with the death investigation of a Burkemont Avenue resident.

On Sunday, officers with Morganton Public Safety responded to a cardiac arrest call at 309 Burkemont Avenue where a 67-year-old man was reported to be unconscious and not breathing.

Reports say Jerry Ahmed Corpening was found to be unresponsive and was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.

Authorities began a death investigation in that Corpening had sustained injuries prior to his death reports say.

18-year-old Iziaha Corpening was seen walking from the residence and was arrested by officers a short time later.

He has been charged with assault with a deadly weapon and placed in the Burke County jail under a 100-thousand dollar secured bond. 

The case is still under investigation and further charges may be pending.

School Threat

Local authorities responded to a threat to a Burke County middle school at the start of the school day Monday morning.

School system officials and Table Rock Middle School were made aware of the threat around 7:45.

A news release says the threat originated on social media and was shared with students, their parents, and school staff members.

Reports say the school’s resource officer and law enforcement officers were contacted as soon as the threat was received and additional lawmen were placed on the school’s campus.

Parents were notified of the situation around 8:15 and were allowed to go to the school to pick up their children.

School principal Rich Linens thanked parents for their patience in dealing with Monday’s situation, further stating that the threat will be fully investigated and resolved.

Pedestrian Killed

A Hickory man walking along a Connelly Springs Road Monday morning was struck and killed by a vehicle.

Highway Patrol reports say 41-year-old Eric Lee Teague was walking near the intersection of Warlick’s Church Road and Wilson Road around 5 when he was hit by a pickup truck.

Teague had reportedly just left a family member’s home.

He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Charges are not expected against the driver.

 

 

 

 

 

COVID-19 Update  

Burke County reported four COVID-related deaths on Sunday. The

individuals were their 70’s, 80’s and 90’s, and were hospitalized prior

to dying from COVID-related complications. That brings the total

number of COVID deaths in Burke since the panademic began to 233.

On Friday, Caldwell County reported 238 COVID cases and 5 deaths

since Wednesday. McDowell County Friday reported 47 new cases of

the virus with 489 residents in quarantine.

New Caldwell Principal

South Caldwell High has a new principal. The Caldwell County Board of

Education held an emergency meeting Thursday and approved Rob Bliss

as the school's new head administrator. A news release says Bliss will

replace Phillip Little today. Bliss has been placed on an administrative

contract until June 30th 2024. Little will take another position in the

school system. He had been principal at South for just over a year. 

 

Caldwell COVID-19 

Caldwell County on Wednesday reported 509 COVID-19 cases and 1 death

since Monday. This month, 2,310 COVID cases have been reported , the

most in Caldwell County of any month since the panademic began.

Currently, 29 Caldwell residents are in the hospital.

Lincoln Woman Faces Multiple Charges  

A Lincoln County woman is charged with stabbing a man, leaving the

scene and crashing a vehicle. Deputies were dispatched about 6:15

Wednesday morning to Springs East Road after Lincoln Communications

received a call from a man who said he had been stabbed with a butcher

knife. When officers arrived, the suspect was leaving the scene in a pickup

truck and a chase ensued that ended when the driver wrecked near the

Catawba-Lincoln County line. Officers apprehended the driver, 48-year-old

Connie Mae Hallman of Lincolnton. The victim in the assault, 58-year-old

Randy Beal was taken by Lincoln EMS to Atrium Health-Lincoln where he

was treated for his injuries. Hallman, who faces numerous charges, was

placed in the Harven A. Crouse Detention Center without the privilege

of bond.

 

COVID Update

Sad news, as Burke County Public Health reports 14 people have died recently from COVID-19.

Those who died ranged in age from the 20’s to the 80’s; while twelve individuals were hospitalized prior to their deaths.

With 134 new cases added since Monday, Burke’s total is currently at 14-thousand-557 cases, with 12-hundred-9 cases reported to be active.

Burke has now suffered 229 deaths since the pandemic began.

The dashboard indicates 48 residents remain hospitalized.

McDowell County health officials report 43 additional cases of COVID-19, with five more residents having died from virus complications.

McDowell’s total is 7-thousand-848 with 548 residents now in quarantine.

Bigfoot Fest Change

Organizers have announced more changes for one of the largest events in Western NC.

The Bigfoot Festival initially set to take place in downtown Marion in mid-September this year, was postponed until May 2022 because of rising COVID-19 cases across the region.

Now, event organizers have once again changed the date for next year’s festival so it won’t conflict with Memorial Day activities.

The Bigfoot Festival is now scheduled to take place May 13^th and 14^th in Marion.

Next year’s festival plans to hold some of the traditional events, like the Bigfoot calling contest, Bigfoot hikes, and lots more.

CVCC Manufacturing Program

Registration is now open for the Manufacturing Academy at Catawba Valley Community College, which takes place from Oct. 4 through Dec. 13.

The Manufacturing Academy is an industry-driven program at CVCC and was developed by 25 partner companies from across Catawba County, and designed to prepare students for manufacturing positions currently in high demand by many of the region’s largest employers. 

Students that complete this program will be fast-tracked for open positions with sponsoring companies.

The course introduces students to the basic concepts of manufacturing and careers with local companies.

Governor's Emergency Education Relief (GEER) scholarship opportunities are also available through the CVCC website.

For more information or to register, please contact Jennifer Eversole at 828-327-7000 ext. 4294 or email jeversole@cvcc.edu.

Grandfather Mtn Leaves

As the Blue Ridge mountains begin to burst with fall color, officials at Grandfather Mountain invites leaf-lookers to enjoy the view from one of the best leaf-looking destinations in the South.

Grandfather is home to various species of plants and hardwood trees that range from pumpkin-colored beech trees to blood-red sourwoods and rusty red oaks.

A series of guided walks through the mountain’s most colorful locations called Grandfather’s Fall Color Ramble will be held October 2^nd through the 10^th.

The easy 20-minute rambles are led by members of the park’s naturalist staff and allow guests an opportunity to learn more about color change and to explore plants and trees native to Grandfather Mountain.

The walks are offered daily at 2 each afternoon, weather permitting and are included with admission.

Those planning to participate should inquire at the park’s entrance gate or nature museum upon arrival.

For more information call 1-800-468-7325 or visit grandfather.com to book a trip.

New Gaston Warden

A former Alexander County law enforcement officer has been named the new warden of the Gaston County Correctional Center in Dallas.

39-year-old Christopher Nichols was named to the position by the division of adult correction and juvenile justice.

Nichols had been a captain at Alexander Correctional Institution in Taylorsville.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

COVID Update

Local public health official reports Burke County is still at a high rate of COVID-19 transmission with a current 10-point-5 percent positivity rate; while 127 new cases were reported over the weekend.

Burke’s total is now 14-thousand-423; with 65 cases added just since Sunday.

1-thousand-220 cases are reported to be active, and 48 Burke residents are still in the hospital.

The highest number of cases continues to be in those under 40 years of age.

McDowell County reports 122 new cases of COVID over the weekend, and 2 additional deaths.

McDowell’s total is 7-thousand-805 presently, with 486 in quarantine.

The FDA’s advisory committee met last week to discuss the possibility of distributing a Pfizer booster to those 16 and older, to be administered about six months after completing the vaccine’s second dose.

The committee approved the booster dose only to those who are 65 and older as well as those at high risk of contracting COVID.

Future meetings among national, state, and local health care workers are required before they can begin administering booster doses.

The CDC is scheduled to meet to discuss the booster specifics today.

Government officials in Cleveland County are describing COVID-19 as a dire situation in their area – so much so that a joint press conference about the virus’ impact was held Monday.

Reports say Cleveland County remains one of the highest counties in the state with new COVID cases; placing a critical impact on its’ health care systems.

The cities of Shelby, and Kings Mountain, along with the Town of Boiling Springs, the Cleveland County Board of Education, Cleveland Community College, and Atrium Health Cleveland were involved in yesterday’s conference.

McDowell Drug Conviction

A Marion man convicted on drug trafficking charges receives a prison term of up to 47 years.

32-year-old Wesley Clayton Rhom Junior was charged with two counts of trafficking in opium or heroin, and two counts of trafficking in meth.

In March 2020, reports say McDowell drug enforcement officers were conducting surveillance on US 70 East and Harmony Grove Road in Nebo while investigating illegal drug distribution.

A motorcycle being driven by Rhom was stopped for a traffic violation, when Rhom reportedly led detectives on a short foot chase.

As he was apprehended, a search of Rhom turned up 137 grams of heroin, and 99 grams of meth.

The incident was a joint investigation by the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office, Marion Police, the NC Bureau of Investigations, and the District Attorney’s office.

Full Moon

NASA says the Harvest Moon reached its fullest phase at 7:54 last night.

Harvest Moon is given to the full moon nearest the autumnal equinox and typically occurs in September.

This year's Harvest Moon is the closest (43 hours, 26 minutes) Full Moon to the Equinox since 1980 (39 hours). It won’t be closer again until 2029.

Why Is it Called the Harvest Moon? For several evenings, the moonrise comes soon after sunset. This results in an abundance of bright moonlight early in the evening, which was a traditional aide to farmers and crews harvesting their summer-grown crops. Hence, it's called the “Harvest” Moon!

While September's full moon more commonly falls near the autumnal equinox, sometimes October's does. In those years, September's full moon is referred to as the corn moon according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac.

 

 

 

COVID Update

The year’s final full week of summer ends with a continuing upward trend of COVID-19 cases in Burke County.

Public health reported 94 new cases Friday with the majority of additional cases still afflicting individuals 40 and under.

The report from Burke health officials say there are 12-hundred-99 active cases, and 48 in the hospital, as Burke’s total now climbs to 14-thousand-296.

McDowell County also reported 94 new COVID cases Friday, and one additional virus-related death.

McDowell’s total is now 7-thousand-683, with 570 residents in quarantine.

Health officials urge those who have been exposed to COVID-19 or test positive for the virus, to remember it is important to quarantine for the necessary amount of time.

And if you have questions about how to quarantine and the length of time required, call your county’s health department.

Nebo Drug Bust

Local and state authorities charged two Nebo men last week with drug offenses following a search of their home.

On Wednesday, detectives with the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office, Marion Police, and agents with the SBI served a search warrant on 46 Mae Drive.

55-year-old Charles Robert Brown and 26-year-old Cody Thomas Brown were both arrested and charged with numerous drug offenses.

Reports say a search of the home turned up 165 grams of meth, 3-point-5 grams of heroin, cash, firearms and drug paraphernalia.

Caldwell Rabies

Rabies detected in Caldwell County – on Thursday, the state’s lab notified Caldwell Animal Control that a raccoon submitted for testing was indeed infected with rabies.

Reports say the raccoon was found off  Connelly Springs Road in the Fairway Acres subdivision.

Animal control officials urge pet owners to make sure their rabies vaccinations are current.

Rabies is a viral disease of the central nervous system that is almost always fatal once symptoms begin.

Caldwell County Animal Control is hosting a rabies vaccination clinic Saturday October 23^rd from 1 till 4 pm at the Health and Human Services Building in Lenoir.

One and three-year vaccinations will be offered for a fee of 7-dollars each.

For questions about rabies vaccinations, call Caldwell County Animal Control at 757-8625.

 

 

 

 

COVID Update

Burke County’s COVID-19 cases continue to multiply as health officials reportED 184 additional cases since Tuesday; and according to a news release 112 new cases just since Wednesday.

More than 13-hundred-60 cases are reported to be active, while 48 residents are hospitalized.

Burke’s total stands at 14-thousand-202 cases, with health officials saying the largest increase in cases is amongst those under 40.*

McDowell County reported 47 new cases of COVID Thursday afternoon, and 3 additional virus-related deaths.

McDowell’s total is now 7-thousand-589 with 543 still quarantined.

Remains Found

A teenager has been charged after the remains of an infant were found buried in a shallow grave behind an Iredell County home.

19-year-old Alex Holden Best was arrested Wednesday and taken to the Iredell detention center where he was charged with felony conceal or fail to report the death of a child.

Earlier this month, the Iredell Sheriff’s Office was made aware of a body possibly buried behind a residence on Tomlin Mill Road.

Reports say the body had been brought to the home from another location in High Point.

After investigators obtained a search warrant, officials reportedly discovered the grave with a box inside holding the remains of a small infant.

According to reports, authorities have also located a female in High Point who is also connected with the incident.

She and Best were both interviewed by investigators.

Best was issued a 10-thousand-dollar secured bond. An investigation continues.

Hickory Road Closure

City contractors in Hickory will close NC 127 Saturday to complete electrical work and other construction activities related to the City Walk project.

NC 127 will be closed between First Avenue Southeast and First Avenue Northeast from 5 am to 6 pm Saturday.

Drivers should use Fourth Street Northwest and Southwest and the one-way pairs to navigate around the closure.

Detour routes will be established and clearly marked.

Grant Supports Burke’s Industrial Commons 

A $500,000 grant was recently awarded to The Industrial Commons by

the Asheville-based Dogwood Health Trust. This grant will help bolster

the foundational work that The Industrial Commons is doing to create

more minority-owned and employee-owned and operated businesses

in Western North Carolina. The Industrial Commons works primarily in

Burke County and in the manufacturing sector. The Dogwood Health

Trust, a private foundation, states that its sole purpose is to dramatically

improve the health and well-being of all people and communities of

18 counties and the Qualla Boundary of Western North Carolina.

 

 

 

 

 

COVID Update

115 new cases of COVID-19 in Burke County Tuesday, as public health reports the majority of new cases are being reported in those less than 40 years of age.

Burke is currently at 14-thousand-18 cases, with 1-thousand-336 cases reported to be active and 48 residents hospitalized.

A news release from the Burke County Health Department reports the county is presently at a 13-percent positivity rate.

Officials say the highest increase in additional positives are occurring in the 20 to 39 age bracket with 37 new cases since Monday, and 29 new cases in newborn to 19 year olds.

Reports also note 31 cases in 40 to 59 year olds since Monday.

McDowell County reported 51 new COVID cases Tuesday, and two additional deaths from virus complications.

McDowell’s total is 7-thousand-509 cases, with 595 in quarantine.

Center Parade Canceled

Another holiday tradition canceled – the Christmas parade at J Iverson Riddle Developmental Center scheduled for December 2^nd has been called off to ensure the health, safety, and well being of the center’s residents.

Facility director Todd Drum says the parade has been part of the center’s tradition for 45 years until last year when it was also canceled because of COVID-19.

The center does look forward to continuing its annual drive-thru holiday display on its campus.

The display will begin December 2^nd and run through New Year’s Eve.

Displays will be lighted each evening from 5:30 until 10.

Facility officials ask visitors to the display event remain in their cars.

The J Iverson Riddle Developmental Center opened in 1963 and is a state-operated facility serving those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, complex behavioral challenges or medical conditions that requires specialized expert treatment.

New Grandfather Mtn Super

Grandfather Mountain State Park has a new superintendent – Andy Sicard as announced by the North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation.

Sicard serves as the chief of operations and park administrator with wide-ranging responsibilities including staffing, training, law enforcement, and community outreach.

The state park is free and lies in Avery, Caldwell and Watauga counties, and opens Grandfather Mountain’s nearly 29-hundred acre backcountry for hikers, backpackers, and nature lovers.

Kayak Stolen

McDowell County authorities are looking for a stolen kayak.

A SC woman reported to the McDowell Sheriff’s Office last Friday that someone stole her dark and light green kayak from the Majestic Landing trail.

The kayak has an orange sticker on the back that says ‘Get Outdoors’.

Anyone having information about the stolen kayak should call McDowell detective Michael Vaughn at 652-2237.

 

 

 

COVID Update

New cases of COVID-19 in Burke County increased by 232 over the weekend; with cases now totaling 13-thousand-903.

Local public health officials report there are 1-thousand-350 active cases, with 49 Burke residents hospitalized.

Burke is currently at a 12-point-7 percent positivity rate with the largest confirmed cases among 20 to 39 year olds.

McDowell County reported 139 new COVID cases from last Friday, with 2 virus-related deaths.

McDowell has a total of 7-thousand-458 cases now, with 544 individuals remaining in quarantine.

Flu Vaccine

Public health officials with the State Department of Health and Human services are urging North Carolinians to protect themselves, their families, and those around them by getting the flu vaccine as the state enters flu season on top of the COVID-19 surge caused by the Delta variant.

The CDC recommends the flu vaccine for everyone 6 months and older; and is especially important for those at higher risk of complications such as those over 65, children younger than 5, pregnant women, and those with underlying conditions such as asthma or heart disease.

Health officials say the flu vaccine can be administered at the same time as other vaccines, including COVID-19.

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

For more information about the flu vaccine, visit flu.nc.gov online.

Shoplifter

A Morganton woman now faces drug charges after getting caught shoplifting at a local store on Saturday.

Morganton Public Safety Officers were called to WalMart where the store’s loss prevention department had alerted lawmen to a suspect loading stolen merchandise into a vehicle.

The suspect was identified as 23-year-old Dontayzha Michelle Peterson.

A news release says the stolen goods totaling more than 19-hundred dollars worth were recovered.

A search of Peterson’s car also turned up 17 grams of meth.

Peterson faces numerous charges including felony breaking, entering, and larceny and drug offenses.

She received a 35-thousand dollar secured bond and was to appear in court yesterday.

Lincoln Arrest

A Lincolnton man was arrested Monday after hiding from officers in the ceiling of a Denver convenience store.

Around 2:30 a.m., Lincoln deputies were looking for 34-year-old Zakari David Glode to serve an arrest warrant.

Officers received information Glode was driving a black 2013 Toyota when they observed it parked at the Denver Mart on Highway 16 Business in Denver.

Glode entered the store, and officers then discovered the suspect had gone into the store’s restroom.

After waiting 20 minutes, deputies obtained the restroom key to then find no one inside.

Officers then observed a damaged ceiling tile, and several other tiles removed.

Glode was ordered to come down from the ceiling space and charged with resisting a public officer, injury to real property, and second degree trespassing.

 

 

 

COVID Update

More than 150 new COVID-19 cases in a single day in Burke County as reported by public health officials.

153 cases since Thursday to be exact, with more than 13-hundred cases reported to be active.

Burke’s total cases number 13-thousand-671, with 41 residents remaining hospitalized.

In McDowell County, officials there reported 104 new cases Friday and two additional virus related deaths.

McDowell’s total stands at 7-thousand-319, while 729 are in quarantine.

Governor Cooper spoke Thursday afternoon regarding the state’s current response to COVID-19.

Cooper says the vaccines continue to do their job by stopping most of the severe illness and death; as they remain the best tool to end this pandemic.

The governor went on to address those who are unsure about getting the vaccine to ‘get off social media and get on the phone with your doctor’.

Cooper has also signed an executive order making it easier to get monoclonal antibody treatment by increasing treatment sites.

By preventing COVID-positive patients from developing more severe illness, Governor Cooper says we can save lives and take some of the strain off our hospitals.

Caldwell Drug Arrest

A drug bust in Granite Falls leads to the arrest of five people last week.

A news release from the Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office says the alleged nuisance residence that supplied heroin and fentanyl to residents of Burke, Caldwell, and Catawba counties was raided by the Caldwell County SWAT and ICE units on Wednesday.

A search warrant was executed at the home located at 1030 Fence Street.

40-year-old Jarvis McCullough, 24-year-old Michael Davis, 35-year-old Jessica McMahon, and 19-year-old Mikaela Hefner; all four who lived at the home were taken into custody.

All four were each charged with possession with intent to sell and deliver heroin, and maintaining a dwelling to keep and store a controlled substance.

Each was jailed in the Caldwell County detention center under a 30-thousand dollar secured bond.

Another individual not living at the residence, 31-year-old John Gerst was also arrested.

He was charged with possession of heroin and maintaining a vehicle to keep and store a controlled substance.

Gerst was jailed under a 10-thousand dollar secured bond.

Reports say agents searched the Granite Falls home and vehicles on the property and seized 4 grams of heroin and an estimated 8-thousand dollars in currency.

9/11 Anniversary

Saturday marked the 20^th anniversary of the terrorist attack that forever changed our country and the world.

On September 11, 2001, nearly 3,000 people were killed, 400 were police officers and firefighters, in the terrorist attacks at the World Trade Center in NYC, at the Pentagon building in Washington, D.C., and in a plane crash near Shanksville, PA.

 

Passengers aboard United Flight 93, heard about the previous airplane attacks and attempted to retake control of the plane from hijackers. As a result, the hijackers dilberately crashed the plane in a Pennsylvania field instead of at their unknown target.

 

On any given workday, up to 50,000 employees worked in the WTC twin towers, and an additional 40,000 passed through the complex.

18 people were rescued alive from the rubble of the World Trade Center site.

The attack on the World Trade Center on 9/11 resulted in the largest loss of life by a foreign attack on American soil.

Fatal Crash

A Clemmons man was killed Thursday afternoon on Interstate-40 in Burke County as he reportedly crashed into a stopped tractor-trailer.

Around 12:30, the State Highway Patrol and emergency officials were called to the accident scene on I-40 west near mile marker 102.

34-year-old Marcus Deal was driving a 2008 Saturn when reports say he left the travel lanes to the right and collided with the tractor trailer that was stopped on the shoulder because of mechanical issues.

Deal died at the scene, and was the only occupant inside the vehicle.

The driver of the truck was not injured.

The cause of the accident remains under investigation by the Highway Patrol.

 

 

 

COVID Update

NC health officials Thursday reported a grim milestone has been reached – the number of state residents that have died from COVID-19 since the pandemic began has now topped 15-thousand.

Meanwhile public health officials from Catawba County reports this week is the first time they saw deaths among people in their 20’s, 30’s, and 40’s.

They say during last year’s winter peak in December, the average age of a person who died from COVID-19 was 77; currently in Catawba the average age of those dying from the virus is 59.

And the virus numbers continue to grow – 231 additional cases in Burke County since Tuesday according to public health officials.

Burke’s total is now 13-thousand-518, with 1-thousand-333 active cases.

 41 Burke residents are in the hospital.

 McDowell County reported 32 new cases of COVID yesterday for a total of 7-thousand-215, with 2 additional deaths reported.

746 people in McDowell are currently in quarantine.

Health officials in the Catawba Valley counties agree that this week’s data is a grim reminder that COVID-19 has the upper hand.

Experts continue to encourage those who are unvaccinated to get the vaccine; and for everyone ‘vaccinated or not’ to wear masks when around people you don’t live with, remember to social distance, and practice frequent hand washing.

Burke County health reports 41 vaccines were administered at last week’s vaccine clinic at Fonta Flora brewery, while 5 vaccines were given at Wednesday night’s youth clinic at the Collett Street Recreation Center.

Data indicates about 44-percent of Burke’s population 12 years and older is fully vaccinated.

Presently in Burke, most of the new cases of COVID are among age groups 0 to 19, and 20 to 39.

Cleveland Co Fair

The state’s largest outdoor agricultural fair has again been canceled because of COVID-19 concerns.

The Cleveland County Fair was scheduled to take place September 30^th through October 10^th; however, an emergency meeting by the fair’s board Thursday resulted in the decision to cancel.

Although organizers had planned for additional safety measures, local health and public safety officials considered the severe impact the event could have on the county’s already-strained medical system.

County fair officials say they made the decision with mixed emotions, but look forward to welcoming everyone back to the fair in 2022.

Parker Bond

A woman charged in connection with a fatal shooting at a Hickory furniture plant in January is granted bond in Wednesday’s court appearance.

Tangela Parker and her husband Eric are both indicted for the shooting death of co-worker Michelle Marlow at TCS Designs.

Tangela’s attorney reports she was granted a 250-thousand dollar secured bond along with house arrest.

Charged with murder, Tangela must reside with her parents and have no contact with her husband.

Reports say she will be electronically monitored and can only leave the home for doctor visits, attorney appointments, and court.

Eric Parker is charged with accessory after the fact for helping his wife flee from the crime scene.

The couple eluded arrest for months before being located in July by authorities in Arizona. 

 

 

 

 

COVID Update

New cases of COVID-19 continue to climb in the area and across the state.

The Burke County Health Department’s online dashboard indicates 79 additional cases Wednesday for a total now of 13-thousand-366.

1-thousand-388 cases are reported to be active; while 41 Burke residents are now hospitalized.

McDowell County reported 70 new COVID cases yesterday, and an additional virus-related death.

McDowell’s total is now 7-thousand-183, and 714 residents are quarantined.

NC health officials reported more than 47-hundred new cases of COVID-19 Wednesday statewide, while 3-thousand-790 people are in the hospital.

According to state data, 67-percent of NC’s adult population has received at least one dose of the COVID vaccine, and 61-percent is reported to be fully vaccinated.

The State Department of Health and Human services reports seeing a sharp increase in COVID-19 clusters among school sports teams.

From July 1^st to September 2^nd, officials say clusters among school sports teams accounted for 45-percent of all clusters in the state’s middle and high schools; despite most school sports activities not beginning until August.

In a NC news release, health officials report there is an increasing urgency for everyone ages 12 and older to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

Currently, children 17 and younger make up 31-percent of NC’s new COVID-19 cases.

That is the highest percentage since the pandemic began.

Recent studies show that virus spread among teammates often happens off the field; including during practice.

In addition to wearing face masks while indoors, state health officials recommend sports programs practice social distancing when possible, disinfect equipment frequently, and avoid sharing water bottles.

Local Meth Arrest

While checking out a fictitious tag, Burke County deputies nab a Morganton man on drug charges.

On September 1^st, reports say officers were traveling on Spainhour Road when they observed a car displaying a fictitious tag.

Deputies stopped the vehicle being driven by 56-year-old Thomas Joseph Jenkins of Oak Hill Drive.

A news release says an investigation revealed methamphetamine and a 12-gauge shotgun that was seized from the vehicle.

Having knowledge that Jenkins was a convicted felon, deputies placed him under arrest and transported him to the magistrate’s office where he was charged with possession of a schedule-2 substance and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Jenkins received a 20-thousand dollar secured bond and was held at the Burke County jail with a court date set for September 23^rd.

Conover Shooting Update

A Conover woman charged in the shooting death of her husband appeared in Catawba County District Court Tuesday.

31-year-old Brittney McCleave could receive the death penalty or be sentenced to life in prison according to presiding judge Richard Holloway.

Conover police report receiving a call just after midnight Monday from McCleave saying she had shot her husband.

Officers reportedly found 36-year-old Danta Broome with a gunshot wound at a home on Lylehaven Drive in Conover.

Reports say Broome later died at Catawba Valley Medical Center.

A news release states two children under 10 were at the residence during the incident, and were placed in the care of a relative.

The investigation continues; McCleave will return to court September 28^th.

Meth from Check Point

A McDowell County check-point Tuesday evening results in a drug charge for a Marion woman.

28-year-old Leaira Johnson of Benview Drive approached the check-point being conducted in the Pleasant Gardens area.

Reports say Johnson was arrested on outstanding warrants and deputies located meth on her.

In addition, she was charged with possession with the intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver meth.

The McDowell Sheriff’s Office also reports the arrest of a Marion man on sex-related charges.

40-year-old Matthew Hughes of Palto Drive is charged with taking indecent liberties with a child.

An investigation showed Hughes allegedly had inappropriate sexual contact with an underage female acquaintance.

 

 

COVID Update

The Labor Day holiday in Burke County saw 200 additional cases of COVID-19 as reported by public health officials.

Burke’s total stands at 13-thousand-287, with 1-thousand-354 active cases and still 35 hospitalized.

A news release says the largest amount of confirmed cases is among those 20 to 39 years old, and also those 40 to 59 years old.

McDowell County Tuesday reported 67 new cases from Monday for a total of 7-thousand-113.

644 people in McDowell are quarantined.

Tonight, the Burke County state of Youth will be hosting a vaccine question and answer session along with a vaccination clinic at the Collett street Recreation Center.

The event begins at 5:30 in the basement of the rec center.

Parents and guardians with questions about the COVID vaccine are encouraged to attend.

Those 12 and older are eligible for the vaccine, and no appointment is necessary.

Conover Shooting

A woman has been charged in connection with a deadly shooting early Monday in Catawba County.

Law enforcement officials say Brittany McCleave is charged with murder in the shooting death of a man inside a mobile home in Conover around midnight Monday.

Reports say McCleave was taken to the Catawba County detention center and was scheduled to appear in court yesterday.

Deaf Awareness Month

Governor Cooper has proclaimed September as Deaf Awareness Month to celebrate and raise awareness about people who are hearing-impaired.

This year commemorates 70 years since the first congress of the World Federation of the Deaf was held in 1951.

There are one-point-2 million individuals with hearing loss in NC with a projected increase to one-point-6 million by 2030.

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted communications in the deaf community, with the face-covering requirement aggravating the ability to communicate.

However, opportunities for creative solutions such as wearing clear masks, using speech-to-text apps and other communication resources have helped deaf individuals to tear down the barriers.

Carbon City Road

Morganton City contractors will be closing Carbon City Road each day this week to repair the entryway and storm drains at Morganton Public Safety Fire Station 2.

The lane closure begins at 8 each morning, with contractors reopening the road once they’re finished each day.

Public Safety officers will be on site to direct traffic around the construction area.

Motorists are urged to use caution in the area.

 

 

 

 

 

Labor Day Warning

The CDC is urging unvaccinated Americans to stay home this Labor Day and not travel.

 Officials with the CDC say those who are vaccinated should travel with precautions and to be aware of transmission risks when making plans.

 Reports say that nearly 62-percent of the country’s population has received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, and that 52-point-6 percent are considered fully vaccinated.

 In a 7-day moving average, the CDC reports that there are nearly 150-thousand new cases daily across the US.

 Health officials further state for those who want to get together with family and friends over the holiday to do so outdoors.

 And for those who must be inside a public place, wear a mask; even those who are vaccinated.

Clergy Bill

Legislation that has received final General Assembly approval will allow clergy members into NC hospitals during a declared emergency like a pandemic.

The Senate gave the final okay to the bill Wednesday and will send it along to Governor Cooper.

The bill would allow ministers to visit a hospital-confined patient as long as they comply with health screenings and other infectious control measures that do not interfere with their religious beliefs.

COVID Update

Only one county in the Catawba Valley area Thursday reporting a change in COVID-19 numbers –

McDowell County reports 67 new cases for a total of 6-thousand-834.

781 people in McDowell are presently quarantined.

McDowell County health officials remind their residents that there are numerous vaccination clinics established throughout the county.

For their location or for questions about the COVID-19 vaccine, call the vaccine-call center at 828-803-4552 between 8:30 am and 5 pm daily.

Wednesday’s report from Burke County Public Health showed a total of 12-thousand-867 cases, with more than 13-hundred cases active, and 35 hospitalized.

A reminder of a COVID vaccination clinic hosted by the Burke County Health Department today at Fonta Flora Brewery from 5 to 7pm.

Sex Charges

A cyber-tip from the SBI leads to the arrest of an Iredell County man on sex charges.

The Special Victims Unit of the Iredell Sheriff’s Office received the tip earlier this week that indicated the suspect possessed child porn.

An investigation led to the arrest of 64-year-old Tony Ernest Bunton of Statesville on Tuesday.

Reports say detectives seized several electronics and other items of evidence.

Bunton was taken to the Iredell Detention Center and charged with four counts of felony third-degree sexual exploitation of a minor.

He was given a 100-thousand dollar secured bond.

 

 

COVID -19 UPDATE

With no end in sight to the rise in COVID-19 cases, a cluster of cases is now reported at a Burke County High School involving a school bus.

A press release from the school system says all students who rode the bus at East Burke High between August 25^th and August 30^th have been quarantined.

Currently 8 positive cases have been reported and 37 students are in quarantine; while 9 students are vaccinated and do not have to quarantine.

Officials say the bus has been thoroughly cleaned, and classes will remain in-person at East Burke, with no plans for remote learning.

School superintendent Dr. Mike Swan reminds students and staff of the importance of following the school’s mask policy while indoors and on buses.

Meanwhile, Governor Cooper has signed a bill allowing NC schools to shift to remote learning should a COVID-19 emergency occur.

The bill states that school districts now have authority to make day-to-day decisions about shifting in-person schools or classrooms to temporary remote instruction if necessary due to virus exposures resulting in reduced personnel or student quarantines.

The bill further states any shift should be reported to the Department of Public Instruction within 72 hours, with efforts to return to in-person instruction to be completed as soon as possible.

In addition, the bill says school districts should vote at least once a month on whether the face-covering policy should be modified – whether optional or required.

COVID-19 numbers continue their upward trend in Burke and surrounding counties as reported by public health officials Wednesday.

Burke reports 247 new cases since Monday for a total of 12-thousand-867.

1-thousand-249 of those cases are currently active and 35 Burke residents are in the hospital.

McDowell County yesterday reports 74 additional cases and 1 death.

McDowell’s current total is 6-thousand-767, and 714 are in quarantine.

Catawba County reports 620 new COVID-19 cases, and 7 deaths in the last week.

Catawba’s total is now 21-thousand 670, and 63 people are hospitalized.

At last report, Caldwell County’s total is 11-thousand-239.

651 COVID cases in Caldwell are active, and 29 remain in the hospital.

Burke County Health Department officials are hosting a vaccine clinic Friday September 3^rd 5 till 7 pm at Fonta Flora Brewery.

 

Firefighter Dies from COVID

The emergency services community along with residents who live in the Catawba Valley is mourning the death of a local firefighter from COVID-19.

Garrett Presnell was a full-time fireman for Black Mountain Fire, while also working part time for several McDowell County departments including Sugar Hill-Montford Cove, North Cove, Pleasant Gardens, and Old Fort.

Presnell was also a member of the Buncombe County Task Force Search and Rescue team that took part in rescue efforts after Tropical Storm Fred.

Fire apparatus, and other law enforcement officials from Catawba, Burke, and McDowell counties lined the overpass bridges along Interstate-40 Tuesday afternoon in honor of Presnell and his family as his body was returned home.

A bass tournament is set for Monday September 6^th from 6 am till 1 pm at Black Bear Landing at Lake James, with monies raised going to Presnell’s wife.

Big Foot Fest Canceled

Another area festival re-scheduled due to the COVID-19 virus – the Western NC Bigfoot Festival held each September in Marion has been postponed until next spring.

Event organizers say the increase in COVID-19 numbers and the continued spread of the virus in WNC has prompted the postponement.

The Bigfoot fest will now take place on May 27^th and 28^th.

The festival began in 2018 after Marion proclaimed Sasquatch as its official animal following a reported sighting in the area that same year.

 

 

 

 

 

Fourth Civil Nuisance Investigation  

The 4^th Civil Nuisance Investigation in recent months is being pursued by

the Burke County Sheriff’s Office. This residence is located at 112 William

Parks Lane, Morganton and has been the subject of 34 complaints/calls for

service since 2015. Pursuant to a letter from the Criminal Investigations

Division, the residential owner has agreed to work with the Sheriff’s Office

in pursuing corrective actions. The owner has agreed to allow the Sheriff’s

Office to arrest and prosecute all trespassers on the premises pursuant to

North Carolina General Statute. This matter will be reviewed in 30 days.

Homicide Hit and Run  

A man who was arrested in connection with a Hickory Felony

Hit and Run, faces additional charges after one of the victims,

Jason Michael Foley, died Monday at Wake Forest Baptist Medical

Center. The suspect, Austin Wayne Edmonson was originally charged

with Felony Assault with a Deadly Weapon with Intent to Kill Inflicting

Serious Injury and Felony Hit and Run, but faces additional charges

of 1st Degree Murder, Assault with a Deadly Weapon with Intent to

Kill Inflicting Serious Injury and two counts of Assault with a Deadly

Weapon. He is being held in the Catawba County Jail with no bond.

Officer-Involved Shooting Update  

A man connected with an officer-involved shooting Monday in Caldwell

County, has been identified. 25-year-old Joshua Alan Kirby is currently

listed in critical condition at a Charlotte hospital. The members of the

Lenoir Police Department who fired their weapons during the incident

were identified in a police department news release as, Patrol Sargeant

James Moore, Detective Landon Annas, and Detective Zachary Wickline.

All three members of the department will remain on administrative

leave/assignment pending the outcome of the SBI investigation.

Vale Man Sentenced  

A Vale man will serve a prison term of 17 to 22 years following his

conviction Monday for second-degree murder and first-degree

kidnapping during Catawba County Superior Court. Joseph Wayne

Barker was given an active sentence for the April 2019 shooting

death of his wife, Crystal Johnson Barker, following his guilty plea.