Pete DeLea's Blog

Hopper defeats Amaya

2007-10-09T19:51:00.001-05:00

Hopper 699
Amaya 641

Clevleand Vol. Fire Dept. polling place 6:00 p.m.

2007-10-09T16:58:00.000-05:00

Councilmen Dicky Amaya and Chris Mabry shake hands after Mabry casts his ballot at the volunteer fire department.

About 300 people have voted at the volunteer fire department in Uptown Shelby.

Councilman Dicky Amaya is here with his wife campaigning.

I voted - 5:00 p.m.

2007-10-09T16:07:00.000-05:00

Robin Davis was voter # 8 on the day at the S. Post Road precinct.

Earl Fuller was out campaigning for Andrew Hopper.

Well I started my blogging venture by voting at my local precinct, at the county office building on S. Post road across from Cleveland Community College.

Shortly before 5 p.m., I was the fifth voter since the polls opened this morning. That's right, one vote per poll worker.

I'm off to my next stop: The Cleveland Vol. Fire Department in uptown Shelby.

Holbrook's statement about fair - 10.2.07

2007-10-02T21:53:00.000-05:00

Below is the text of a message delivered by Cleveland County Commission vice chairman Eddie Holbrook:

I would like to congratulate the fair, it’s board and administration for the outstanding job that is being done with this year’s fair.

I would like to express my personal opinion about some statements that have been circulating around the county concerning me and my fellow commissioners.

Neither I nor any of the commissioners have discussed closing the fair. The fair situation has not even been on the agenda at any of our meetings.

I have been a regular fair attendee since I have lived in Cleveland County. I enjoy the fair and my children enjoy the fair. Statements that have been attributed to me about closing or moving the fair are completely false. I really do not mind being criticized for things I have said or done. It’s part of the territory. But I deeply resent anyone who takes statements from me and manipulates them in this manner about me.

I ran for this office with the sole intent of hoping to make a contribution to our county and improve the quality of living for our citizens. If I have made mistakes along the way I apologize.

I am employed at the community college. I can honestly say the college has never had any desire to take over or manage the fair. The college contributes the parking we have at no charge to the fairgrounds and the volunteer fire department.

I learned from my athletic days and business days that you can accomplish much more as a leader. It is my desire and the community college’s desire, as well as our board’s, to be the best team we can for this county.

We want to do nothing but assist and make the fair even better for our citizens. I sincerely ask that you give us time to prove our intentions and to assist us in squelching these rumors that are numerous, widespread and untrue.

Help us move forward in a positive growth mode that we all can be proud of.

Bulky Item Pick-up - 10.1.07

2007-10-01T14:51:00.000-05:00

Got this notice from the City of Shelby:

The City of Shelby Sanitation Department is having the Fall Bulky Item Pick-up the week of October 15-19. Items such as: furniture, boxes, mattresses and bagged clothes will be picked up from the curbside.

The sanitation department doesn't pick up appliances, tires, building materials, paints, oils or batteries.

There will be no brush pick up during the week of solid waste pick up.

Earl Scruggs' opening act

2007-09-24T10:29:00.001-05:00

Destination Cleveland County announced Monday that two time Grammy award winner Nashville Bluegrass Band will open for Earl Scruggs during his Coming Home concert.

The concert will be held Oct. 11 at Malcolm Brown Auditorium in Shelby.

Destination Cleveland County Executive Director Marta Holden said about 40 balcony seats are still available and can be purchased online at www.destinationclevelandcounty.org.

I'll be covering the concert so I will update you on what types of coverage (video, audio, blog) I'll be providing later this week after I talk to Earl Scruggs' people.

Burns v. Forestview 2nd Half

2007-09-21T19:58:00.000-05:00

FINAL: Burns 20, Forestview 7

BURNS: Burns is driving at the Jaguars 14. Keron Phelps bangs in another. Kick is no good. Burns 20, Forestview 7.

FINAL SCORE:
Ashbrook 35, Crest 17

FORESTVIEW: Begins drive around their own 20-yard-line. Jaguars forced to punt.

BURNS: Takes over on their own 35. Keron Phelps takes it 32 yards to the Bulldogs 3-yard-line. Phelps bangs in his second TD of the game with about 7 minutes left in the game. 2pt conversion is good. Burns 14, Forestview 7 with 7:15 left.

FORESTVIEW: Begins drive at their own 44-yard-line. Jaguar's quarterback called for intentional grounding. It's now 2nd and 51 on the Jaguar's own 15-yard-line. Forestview punts.

BURNS: Begins drive at their own 26-yard-line. They go no where and are forced to punt.

FINAL SCORE: Shelby 7, Brevard 0

FORESTVIEW: Receives the ball and will begin their drive at their own 40. End of the third quarter: Forestview 7, Burns 6. Forestview punts.

BURNS: Big gain by a run from quaterback Keron Phelps takes theBulldogs inside the Jaguars 20-yard-line. Phelps goes in for the score. Kick is no good. Forestview 7, Burns 6.

FORESTVIEW: Picks up the first down on the first series of the drive. The Jaguars are continuing their drive up field and are currently in Bulldog territory. First and 10 at the 32-yard-line. Turnover on downs.

SCORE UPDATE:
Ashbrook has extended its lead to 28-10 over Crest.

BURNS: Receives to start the 2nd half. Chris Marlow returns it to about the 45 yard line. Bulldogs pick up back-to-back first downs and find themselves on the Jaguars 25-yard-line. Burns fumbles, Forestview recovers on the Bulldogs 18.

SCORE UPDATES FROM ALAN FORD:
Halftime --- Kings Mountain 7, Victory Christian 0.
Still Shelby 7-0 at end of third quarter at Brevard.
6:17 to go in the third quarter .... Ashbrook leads Crest, 21-10.

Burns v. Forestview

2007-09-21T17:44:00.000-05:00

HALF TIME: Forestview 7, Burns 0

BURNS: Picks of the first down at the Bulldog 34 yard line. Two consecutive complete passes to #25 Aldrick Watson have Burns threatening to score with less than a minute left in the half. 1st and 10 at the Jaguar 23 yard line. Field goal attempt is no good.

FORESTVIEW: Receives the punt and takes over the ball with about 2 minutes left in the half. 4th and 7 on their 40. Time out. Jaugars punt.

SCORE UPDATE FROM ALAN FORD:
Shelby goes to halftime still leading 7-0 over Brevard.
Ashbrook leads Crest at halftime, 14-10.

BURNS: Goes now where on the first series and punts.

FORESTVIEW: Pass picked by Bulldogs #21 Brandon Garvin.

BURNS: Goes nowhere on the drive and is forced to punt.

FORESTVIEW: First and goal at the 5. Jaguars picked in the end zone by Bulldogs #8 Chris Marlow.

BURNS DRIVE: Kick returned to their own 29 with about 10 minutes left in the half. Pass intercepted by Jaguars #11 Bruce Graham, his second pick of the game.

FORESTVIEW: Continues drive on the 20 yard line. Now, 1st and goal for the Jaguars. TOUCHDOWN: Jarkeevus Alexander with the rushing touchdown. The kick is good. Forestview 7, Burns 0.

END OF FIRST QUARTER: Burns 0, Forestview 0

FORESTVIEW: 1st and 10 at the Bulldogs 31 yard line.

SCORE UPDATES FROM ALAN FORD:
Shelby 7-0 over Brevard, early 2nd quarter
Ashbrook 14-7 over Crest, early 2nd quarter

BURNS DRIVE: Pass picked off by Forestview's #11 Bruce Graham with about 3 minute left in the 1st.

FORESTVIEW DRIVE: The take the ball over on their own 40. The Jaguars fumble and is recoved by #20 Marcus Tuft.

BULLDOGS DRIVE: Burns starts on their own 12 and pick up the first down. Ball on the 26. On the next series, the Bulldogs were forced to punt with about 5 minutes left in the 1st quarter.

OPENING KICK OFF: Forestview receives and takes it to about mid-field. There's slowly making their way up the field. Forestview has the ball on the 11. Time out with about 8 minutes left in the quarter. 4th down and they are going for it and they got stopped in the backfield by #21 Brandon Garvin. Bulldogs take possession of the ball.

UPDATE 7:20 - It's 10 minutes before the game. I also found out it's homecoming tonight at Burns.

Well I'm in the Burns press box. It's about 45 minutes till game time so check back later for all the action here in Lawndale. I'll also be posting scores from other games as I hear them.

My football writing debut - 9.21.07

2007-09-21T09:09:00.000-05:00

With Gabe in Mississippi covering Gardner-Webb's game against Mississippi State, I'll be covering a football game tonight.

I do have some experience with sports though. Last year I went and blogged Shelby's football teams quest for the state title. I also went with the basketball team to the championship game as well.

While in college, I was the sports editor of my paper before I came editor. So, I understand the game. The challenge will be quickly learning the players, as I don't follow high school football all that much here other than looking at the records and hoping I'll get to go to another state championship game.

Tonight, I will be at the Forestview/Burns game with The Star Car. If all goes well, I will be blogging the game while updating you on scores of other games. So check back tonight for all the action.

Ask a candidate a question? - 9.19.07

2007-09-19T10:22:00.000-05:00

It's about three weeks until Shelby's city elections. There is only one contested race: Incumbent Dicky Amaya vs. former city council member Andrew Hopper.

Incumbents Ted Alexander (mayor) and Jeanette Patterson are running uncontested. Newcomer Larry Ware is also running uncontested after Councilman Bob Still announced he won't seek another term.

I'm going to be sending all the candidates some questions to answer and would like some suggestions. So feel free to post a comment here with a question you would like answer.

O.J.'s book - 9.17.07

2007-09-17T11:06:00.001-05:00

I went to the bookstore in Gastonia on Friday night looking for the new O.J. book. It was released Friday but for some reason the store wasn't getting it until Monday. Now that a few days have passed, the thought of buying has dwindled a bit.

Had O.J. been profiting from the book I would not purchase it for obvious reasons. But with the Goldman's getting the money, I don't feel so bad. I'm kind of interested in the book because the trial happened when I was in high school and during that time I couldn't get enough of it. I remember being in school watching the verdict come down.

Where were you when you heard the verdict? Are you planning to buy the book?

Earl fire - 9.17.07

2007-09-17T09:32:00.001-05:00

A fire broke out at this mobile home on Thomas Drive early this morning. About 9:30 a.m., I went out there but couldn't find anyone to talk to but I did find a bunch of chickens, which you can see in the photo.

Some quick court updates - 9.11.07

2007-09-11T10:13:00.000-05:00

Jerry Adams, who is charged with several sex crimes, appeared in court this morning for a bond hearing. He requested that the judge lower his bond, which is set at $150,000. That request was denied.

Ronald Bailey, the former youth baseball coach charged with several counts of first-degree sex offense on a child, appears on this docket. However, his attorney is on vacation. His case will be continued.

Shannon White, who is charged with felony hit-and-run in the death of Jonathon Scruggs, doesn't appear on this docket.

Video poker case update 9.10.07

2007-09-10T11:16:00.000-05:00

I'm in Asheville today with The Star Car to cover legal proceedings in the Henderson Amusements video poker case.

Marvin Marty Babb, who prosecutors say set up meeting with witnesses and tried to get them to lie in their grand jury testimony, is scheduled to appear in front of a judge today to plead guilty to two charges in an agreement with the federal government.

He was suppose to plea at 11 a.m. but the case was continued until 1:30 p.m. So for now, I'll be sipping on my white choclate mocha while walking around downtown Asheville.

I'll update when I get new information.

Cute cats and dogs get their shots - 9.8.07

2007-09-08T15:38:00.001-05:00

More Belwood tractor photos - 9.8.07

2007-09-08T15:34:00.001-05:00

Belwood Tractor Festival photos - 9.7.07

2007-09-07T09:29:00.000-05:00

Here's 3-year-old Blane Fulbright. His favorite tractor is John Deere and also mention his favorite music is bluegrass.

My weak attempt at panning since my point and shoot doesn't produce the greatest stop action.

I spent Thursday night in Belwood with my photographer, Brittany, at the annual Antique Tractor Festival. These are some of my shots. I tried getting a little creative since I was just shooting for fun.

Verdict reached

2007-08-23T08:40:00.000-05:00

9:30 AM - the jury is deliberating. I will update you if the jury comes back with any questions or a verdict. Stay tuned.

10:30 - The jury returned a verdict of guilty of voluntary manslaughter. He was sentenced to 72 to 96 months in prison.

Check back here shortly for reaction from the defendant's family. Samuel's family was not in the courtroom when the verdict was announced.

Case in jury's hands

2007-08-22T12:22:00.000-05:00

1:27 PM - The jury has started deliberating the case. They can reach the following verdicts: guilty of first-degree murder, second-degree murder, voluntary manslaughter or not guilty.

I will update you if the jury comes back with any questions or a verdict.

2:10 - The jury has requested the definitions of second-degree murder and voluntary manslaughter. The judge is providing instructions.

2:47 - The jury has requested a 30-minute break. The judge has let them go for a half-hour.

4:30 - The jury is still out. Haven't heard a peep from them since the came back from their break.

4:46 - The jury sent another note asking if they don't reach a verdict today what do they do. The judge recessed the jury and instructed the jury to return in the morning. He also noted that the court will begin selecting a jury for another trial tomorrow.

Closing arguments - UPDATED 1:10 PM

2007-08-22T09:57:00.001-05:00

9:40 AM - Defense Attorney Julian Wray opened court Wednesday morning with the defense’s closing argument.

He said his client, Dameon Romell Early, shot Paras Samuel out of self-defense.

"This is a tragedy for both parties, there’s no question about that but he’s not guilty of a crime," said Wray. "The evidence in this case says my client is not guilty. Dameon Early has said’ I’m not guilty’ from the beginning. All of his statements to law enforcement say he’s not guilty. He said it in his hospital bed, he said it voluntarily."

He said the state waited 30 days before the trial date to start gathering evidence in the case. He said they didn’t talk to Sherwin Allen until July, more than a year after the shooting.

Dameon early didn’t get a complete and thorough investigation from law enforcement. It’s something he’s entitled to and didn’t get.

Wray said a lot of the prosecution’s evidence focused on the distance between Early and Samuel before the shooting. He said none of the witnesses gave similar distances.

"Perception of distance and time differ in the heat of the moment," said Wray. "Don’t chase a rabbit. It’s not relevant. My client didn’t have a tape measure."

He said again this is a case of self-defense.

"Dameon had all the good reason to fear for his life," said Wray.

11:04 - Court is in recess for 15 minutes.

11:21 - Defense continues closing argument. Wray is going over the laws regarding self-defense.

11:39 - Defense wraps up closing argument. Prosecution begins closing argument.

Assistant District Attorney Bill Young said the defense was simply trying to muddy the water and distract the jury from the real issues of the case.

Young said the witnesses are consistent on the key issues, such as who fired the first shot. He said the defense witness, Sarah Thompson's testimony about the number of shots and the sounds of the shots, were not consistent with the physical evidence. He also mentioned that Early and Thompson were good friends.

He said Early changes his testimony to attempt to make him look better.

"The defendant is not telling the truth," said Young. "He's not a believable man."

12:38 - Young is going over the laws.

12:48 - Prosecution wraps up closing argument. Court is in 10 minute recess.

12:58 - The jury has decided not to take a lunch. The judge is now giving the jury instructions.

Tuesday afternoon murder trial action - UPDATED 3:49 PM

2007-08-21T13:07:00.000-05:00

2:02 PM - The judge informed the prosecution and defense that someone approached a juror during the lunch break while she was eating at Tastee T. He said someone asked her how long the case is going to take. The judge said the juror didn't reply to the person. He said he hasn't seen that person in the courtroom during the trial.

2:05 - Early gets back on the stand with Young continuing his cross-examination. Young is questioning Early about the bullets in the gun he used. Early said he had five, two of which were "shot shells"

2:33 - The defense called Detective Richard Ivey of the SPD to the stand. He is testifying about his interview with Early. (where it took place, how it took place.)

3:16 - Ivey left the stand and the court took a 15 minute recess.

3:35 - The defense rests it's case. The prosecution requested that Ivey be called back to the stand to review the video tape of the interview with the purpose of impeaching the defendant's testimony.

He said there are two issues that conflict with his testimony today and his interview with police. One centers around a statement to police about him putting his gun in his pocket rather than his holster because he had gotten a hair got that day. Early said multiple times he never said that. The second issue is about the distance between Early and Samuel when the shooting occurred. Young said his testimony today doesn't accurately described his comments to police.

The judge ruled that Ivey doesn't have to come back but the prosecution can show clips of the video to the jury.

3:45 - the judge dismisses the jurors for the rest of the day to prep the prosecution and defense for the closing arguments.

3:48 - The defense motioned for the case to be dismissed saying the prosecutions witnesses conflicted each other. The judge denied the motion.

Tuesday's murder trial action - UPDATED 11:55 AM

2007-08-21T08:43:00.000-05:00

9:45 a.m. - Before the jury came in, Defense Attorney Julian Wray informed the court that the state offered his client, Dameon Romell Early, a plea deal for voluntary manslaughter Monday afternoon. He informed the court that Early decided to reject the offer and wants to continue with the trial.

9:47 - The defense calls Orlando Agar, 22, to the stand. He said he was over a friends house when Samuel showed up looking for him.

"We were still beefing," said Agar. "I guess he was coming to handle that situation. I wasn't scared of him. I had my gun."

Agar said he knew Samuel had a gun but didn't know if he had it that day.

He said he later heard gun shots down the road so he pulled his gun thinking the shots were for him. He said he found out it wasn't and that Samuel was shot.

10:22 - Agar left the stand and the court is in recess to deal with a juror issue. A family member of the juror has came to the court to talk to the juror regarding a personal matter. It was mentioned earlier by the judge that a juror's uncle was given 24 to 48 hours to live.

10:30 - After meeting with family, the juror came in and said her uncle's family has been called to the uncle's bed side. The judge excused the juror and replaced her with one of two available alternates. The alternate juror was the one that previously mentioned (after she had been selected) that she knew some of the defendant's family.

10:38 - The defense called Sarah Thompson, the woman known as the "candy lady" who sells candy, sodas and cigarettes from her home on Piedmont Avenue.

She said before the shooting, Early was inside her home watching the ending of General Hospital with her.

She said later several people, including Early, were outside her apartment speaking loud. She said she couldn't make out the words or who was talking. Then she heard the shots.

"I saw a flash go by and heard pop, pop, pop," said Thompson.

After the shooting, she said Jarrod Smith was outraged, punched a pole and was looking for Early's step-father.

During cross-eximanation, Assistant District Attorney Bill Young, asked the order of the shots she heards.

She said the two loud shots came after four smaller sounding shots.

During re-direct, Wray asked if she made comments about carrying guns before.

She said she told Samuel and Jarrod Smith that if she ever heard of them carrying guns they wouldn't be allowed in the house.

11:03 - The court is recess for 15 minutes. There is indication that Early might take the stand when court returns.

11:17 - The defense calls Early to the stand.

He testified he receives disability because he fell from the back of the truck. He said he was helping his sister move when he when a mattress blew up and knocked him off the back of the truck traveling 65 mph on I-81.

Early appears to be having trouble understanding the questions. His attorney asked him if he's having a hart time understanding the questions.

Early looked to the jury and said "You have to bare with me I have a lot on my mind."

Early said later there was a crowd of people and he didn't shake Samuel's hand.

"Paras did flipped," he said. "He just cussed me out."

He said Samuel put a gun in his face and said he's going to (expletive) me up.

"I got love for the boy," said Early. "I never saw him act like that. He was just hype."

"He had me scared as hell," said Early. "I thought he was going to shoot me."

The judge has instructed Early not use profane languaged unless he's quoting what someone says.

He said Samuel walked away and came back and shot him in the chest. Then Early said he fired back.

"I just shot until I couldn't here anything else," said Early.

During cross-examination, Early said the doctor told him the bullet went through his chest at an angle and out the side of his body and lodged in his right arm.

12:37- court is in lunch recess.

Prosecution continues case - 8.20.07 - UPDATED 12:44 PM

2007-08-20T09:11:00.000-05:00

Sherwin Allen takes the stand at 10:10 a.m.
Sherwin Allen, known as "Little Bit," testified he knew both Dameon Romell Early (the defendant) and Paras Samuel (the victim).

Allen said him, Ryan Smith and Early were out front of Ms. Thompson's house talking the night of the incident.

"Dameon didn't greet Paras. That was a problem there," said Allen. "They started arguing. Paras was in his face talking junk to him. One thing led to another and the rest is like that."

Then Paras' gun came out, he said.

"He flashed it and put it back in his pocket," said Allen.

Allen said Paras walked away and Dameon approached him and asked "Did he pull a gun on me."

Allen said he replied: "Let it go man, let it go."

He then said Early confronted Samuel and pulled a gun. He said Early fired the first shots.

"After the first shot was fired that's when Paras' pulled his gun and fired backed," said Allen.

During cross-examination, Allen said he talked to Jarrod Smith about the case several times.

He said when Paras pulled his gun Paras said "I'm going to (expletive) you up."

Allen testified that the night of incident he didn't give a statement to police. He also testified he didn't provide information in the case until about a month a go when he was contacted by the
prosecution.

He testified before shots rang out, Samuel approached Early with his hands in his back pockets.

Allen left the stand at 11:16 AM.

15 mintue break

Omar Wilson, who knew Samuel for about six years and Early for about a month, took the stand at 11:35 a.m.

He testified he heard Samuel and Early arguing, then he heard gun shots. "I turned around and saw Paras and Dameon shooting at each other."

Wilson left the stand at 12:32.

The state rested it's case. The judge has sent the jury home from the rest of the day.

Defense Attorney Julian Wray motioned to the dismiss the case saying that the prosecution's witness conflicted each other and the state didn't have sufficent evidence. The judge denied the motions.

Early said he wants to testify. The judge informed him of his right not to testify and how the jury can't hold that against him.

"I believe I need to," said Early. "It's my choice."

Day three of the murder trial - UPDATED 12:48 PM

2007-08-17T08:43:00.001-05:00

Outside of the jury, day three began with a hearing to determine whether the prosecution would be able to use autopsy photos. The judge allowed them in.

The judge has indicated that court should end today around lunch time.

On a side note, I haven't yet told you the breakdown of the jury. The jury of 12 is made of eight women and four men. All twelve are white. There are two alternate jurors. Both are women. One is white and one his black. After the trial began, the black alternate juror informed the judge that she realized she knew some of the defendant's family. She said she could be a fair juror and the judge allowed her to continue as a juror.

The prosecution began calling witnesses.

A medical examiner, Dr. Christpher Gulledge, from the Medical Examiners Office in Charlotte took the stand at 9:48 a.m. He is currently going over his education and experience.

"We found three gun shot wounds to Mr. Samuel," he said. "All of them had entrance and exit wounds. All of them were at an undeterminate distance."

He said anything beyond two feet away he couldn't determine.

He said the shots were to the chest, abdomen and leg. He said the bullet to the chest went through the heart. He said it was a fatal shot. He said the other two shots probably wouldn't have been lethal.

He said Samuel had a blood alcohol level of .07.

Autopsy photos are being show to the jury on a courtroom monitor.

The defense has started it's cross-examination of the doctor. The doctor has left the stand.

Jared Smith, 18, who knew both Early and Samuel, took the stand at 11:30 a.m.

His relationship to Samuel: "He was like my brother."

He testified Samuel and and a few friends were at his house playing spades and drinking beer before the shooting. He said they then left his house with Samuel driving. He said they went to the Piedmont Avenue area. He said he went into Ms. Thompson's house and heard an argument outside.

"I hard bickering going on outside," said Smith, who then went outside. "I told them to chill out."
He said Paras pulled out a gun and pointed it towards Early, then he put the gun in his pocket. He said Early then put the gun to Samuel's head. He said Early fired first. He said he heard five or six shots.

I heard the first shot, I hit the ground and heard continuous shots. Paras was staggering to standing up."

Young questioned Smith about his comments to investigators the night of incident.

"To tell you the truth I was going to lie for him," said Smith.

Wray started cross-examination.

Wray questioned whether he lied today. "Everything I said today is the truth," said Smith.

Smith said he previously pleaded guilty to or was convicted of communicating threats and gun possession.

Smith left the stand at 12:46 p.m. The court is in recess for the weekend and should resume Monday at 10 a.m.

Day over

2007-08-16T16:06:00.000-05:00

Jurors have been sent home for the day. The case is scheduled to resume at 9:30 a.m. tomorrow with the prosecution cotinuing it's case.

Afternoon testimony - UPDATED 4:42 PM

2007-08-16T13:08:00.000-05:00

Joe Upton, a special agent and forensic firearm examiner with the N.C. State Bureau of Investigation took the stand at 2:04 PM.

He is testifying about the examinations he performed on Early and Samuel's guns.

At 2:38, Upton was still on the stand describing the different tests he completed on the guns to determine what weapons fired which bullets.

At 3:24, with the witness still on the stand, the judge allowed for a 15 minute break.

Well, its 4:41 and Upton is still on the stand. He's discussing bullet holes in the clothing of both men.

Day two testimony - UPDATED 12:28PM

2007-08-16T08:45:00.000-05:00

Todd Vickery, the former crime scene investigator with the Shelby Police Department, took the stand at 9:39 a.m.

Defense Attorney Julian Wray continued his cross examination of the witness from yesterday. Wray is currently having Vickery identify evidence, label it and enter it into the trial. Items include a video of Dameon Romell Early's interview with police and blood samples gathered at the crime scene. Vickery left the stand at 10:16 a.m.

Ryan Smith, 19, took the stand at 10:17 a.m.
He said he has known Early for about two years. He said he also knew Samuel through his cousin. Smith testified he was walking through the Piedmont Avenue neighborhood and saw Early and a man by the name of "Little bit" standing outside Ms. Thompson's home (she is the lady that sells candy, sodas and cigarettes from her home). He said he saw Early had a gun in a holster.

He said later Early and Samuel got into a confrontation.

"They started having words," said Smith, who couldn't recall what the argument was about or any words that were stated.

Smith said Samuel pulled out a gun. He said he didn't see Samuel point a gun at anyone and put the gun away. He said Early then pulled out a gun and pointed at Samuel.

"Shots. three, four...that's what I heard," said Smith.

Smith is now using maps to illustrate his testimony.

BREAK IN TESTIMONY (11:40 am): Wray has objected to allowing the the signed, written interview report between Smith and Officer Ivey of the SPD. ADA Bill Young argued that the report corroborates the testimony. Wray argued in impeached the testimony and the written report is was not done under oath. The judge allowed the report in. Testimony started again at 11:51 a.m.

Young had Smith read the question and answer interview.

Wray began his cross-examination at 12:05 p.m.

Smith said he only heard the shots but didn't who fired them.

Smith also said it appeared Samuel had been drinking because he was acting "wild."

Smith left the stand.

Court is in recess for lunch.

Trial done for the day

2007-08-15T16:01:00.000-05:00

Court is in recess until tomorrow morning at 9:30. Then, Todd Vickery will be back on the stand.

More witnesses called - UPDATED 4:24 PM

2007-08-15T11:13:00.000-05:00

Mr. Trammell of Cleveland County EMS took the stand at 12:14 PM.
He described the large crowd on Piedmont Avenue when he arrived with his ambulance. He said he put his safety vest on and then tended to the patient. He testified the patient had no pulse and was not breathing upon his arrival.

"We did everything we possibly could during the time we were with him," he said.

Court is recessing for lunch. Testimony should resume at 2 p.m.

Officer Chris Truitt of the Shelby Police Department took the stand at 2:08 PM
The officer testified that when he arrived at the scene there was a large crowding hollering. He said he saw a gun on the ground. He said he feared the gun might be taken so he marked the spot and locked the weapon in his patrol car.

Officer Clint Bridges of the Shelby Police Department took the stand at 2:25 PM
Bridges testified that he left the crime scene and went to Cleveland Regional Medical Center and guarded the deceased body. He said he later received a projectile from the body.

Todd Vickery, a crime scene investigator for the SPD at the time, took the stand at 2:41 PM
Vickery testified about the evidence gathering process. He said he went through the home and gathered evidence including a blood stain. As of 3:49, Vickery continues to go through evidence he gathered.

At 4:20, Vickery remained on the stand.

He testified that the gun shot residue tests on both men were done. He said Samuel's test came back positive for gun shot residue. Early's test were undetermined because the test samples were not properly done.

Prosecution begins case UPDATED 12:13 PM

2007-08-15T09:42:00.000-05:00

Assistant District Attorney Bill Young started calling witnesses. The first on the stand is Officer Benfield of the Shelby Police Department. He was one of the first to arrive at the crime scene on Piedmont Avenue.

He said it was a "very chaotic" scene. He said crowd control was a problem. He said people were coming out of the public housing units. He said he saw a body on the ground.

Benfield testified that while he was working crowd control, Early's step-father, Jackie Cunningham approached him.

Benfield testified: "He said Daemon’s my son. Your more than welcome to look in the house I don’t know if he’s there."

Benfield said he asked Daemon where his gun was. "He said he gave it to his mother."

After a break and a matter with a juror, Benfield returned to the stand.

Before and after the break, Benfield identified evidence in the case, including shell casings.

Defense Attorney Julian Wray began his cross-examination of Benfield. He asked him in detail to pinpoint on a map where he was when he arrived and during other parts of the process that night.

Wray asked Benfield if Early appeared to be injured. Benfield said Early had a gunshot wound to the chest and he was concerned for Early's well being.

Opening arguments begin UPDATE 10:35 A.M

2007-08-15T09:19:00.001-05:00

The prosecution has waived the opportunity to make an opening argument.

Defense Attorney Julian Wray is now giving his opening argument.

"I believe the evidence in this case will show it was a matter of self defense," said Wray.

Wray said his client draws disability because of a head injury he suffered falling off the back of a truck.

Wray said on the night of the shooting, Early went to a house down the street that sold cigarettes and sodas.

He said a car load of young men drive up in a white car. Wray said Samuel and another man, not Early, got into a argument. Wray said Samuel was drinking: "That's why he was acting the way he was."

"Dameon considered Paras a friend," said Wray. "They played video games with each other on occasions."

He said Paras eventually went across the street were Early was. He said for some reason Early didn't shake Paras' hand.

"Over a hand shake and maybe alcohol, maybe something else, Paras goes ballistic," said Wray. "As a result of this, Samuel pulled his gun out."

Wray said Samuel shot his client.

"At that time Dameon pulled out his gun," said Wray. "He started shooting to protect himself."

Jury selected - 8.15.07

2007-08-15T08:56:00.000-05:00

A jury in the first-degree murder trial of Dameon Early has been seated around 10 a.m. Two alternates have also been selected.

Opening arguments should begin shortly.

Jury selection starts - 8.14.07

2007-08-14T19:13:00.000-05:00

Jury selection began today in the first-degree murder case against Dameon Romell Early.

Police say in April 2006, Early shot Paras Samuel, 16-year-old Burns High studuent, on Piedmont Avenue in Shelby. At the time of the incident, relatives told The Star that Early told them he acted in self defense.

Testiony could begin tomorrow morning. When it does, check back here for live trial coverage.

Murder trial scheduled to start - 8.13.07

2007-08-13T18:06:00.000-05:00

Dameon Romell Early, charged with the murder of a 16-year-old Burns High School student, is scheduled to stand trial this week in Cleveland County Superior Court.

Police say in April 2006, Early shot Paras Samuel on Piedmont Avenue in Shelby. At the time of the incident, relatives told The Star that Early told them he acted in self defense.

Today in Superior Court, his attorney, Julian Wray, filed 11 motions including a motion to sequester witnesses. After the judge rules on the motions, jury selection is scheduled to begin. Testimony could start in the case late Tuesday or Wednesday.

I'll be blogging live once the trial starts.

CLICK HERE TO READ THE STORY FROM APRIL 2006

Superior Court starts today - 8.13.07

2007-08-13T09:20:00.000-05:00

CLICK HERE FOR THE DOCKET

I'll be covering the serious crimes (murder, rape, habitual felons). Let me know if any person on the list stands out and I'll try to get an update. Keep in mind, a lot of these cases on the docket will probably be continued. Also, the grand jury convenes today. Check back later for the indictment list.

Bridal show photos - 8.11.07

2007-08-11T15:55:00.000-05:00

I covered a bridal fair at the Cleveland Mall today. Here's some photos taken by Katie Bryant. Read tomorrow's Star for the story.

What would your park look like? - 8.10.07

2007-08-10T09:50:00.000-05:00

Ariel shot of the donated Hannah property (Courtesy of the City of Shelby)

Shelby's Park and Recreation Department is currently creating a master plan for the City Park and on donated land on McBrayer Springs Road. The land adjacent to the City Park totals 55 acres and was donated by the Royster family. The land on McBrayer Springs Road is 85 acres and was donated by the Hannah family.

What new recreational opportunities would you like to see come to Shelby? Share them in the comments section.

(On a side note, I will have a story next week on one idea the city has to turn around a de-emphasized park.

Here's the list of steering committee members who will be creating the park's master plan:

Charlie Holtzclaw, City of Shelby Parks and Recreation Director
Walter Scharer, City of Shelby Planning Services Director
Dicky Amaya, City Council liaison to Recreation Advisory Board
Larry Ware, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Chairman
Johnny Hatcher, Youth Council Chairman
Bill McCarter, Cleveland County Planning Director
Ed Yarboro, Cleveland County Soccer Association
Jay Bridges, Youth Baseball Advocate and Coach
Sally Royster, Cleveland County Tennis Association
Chuck Dellinger, Gastonia Parks and Recreation Director

Shelby's emergency water pipeline - 8.8.07

2007-08-08T13:04:00.000-05:00

It looks like Shelby will begin preparing to implement the emergency water pipeline today. I'll know more shortly but for now, take a look at this photos I took at a creek between Shelby and Cherryville this afternoon.

No additional sales tax or land transfer tax

2007-08-07T16:05:00.000-05:00

Commissioners voted not to ask for a referendum within the election cycle for an addtional sales tax or land transfer tax as allowed with the new state budget.

Removing the word tarp from the "tarp law" - UPDATED 4:28

2007-08-07T14:49:00.000-05:00

With the leash law discussion under their belt, the commissioners are now dealing with the "tarp law."

County Health Director Denese Stallings said the "tarp law" is successful

"The program is working," said Stallings

She said the department did a survey six months ago and one recently.

"The last time we did it 50 percent of the vehicles were securing their loads, this time it's 71 percent."

She said since the law has been in place, 412 citations have been issued.

She's recommending the word "tarp" be taken out of the wording of the ordinance.

"We're not saying they have to have a whole tarp on it but they have to have something to hold it down," said Stallings. "People don't need to have a tarp for small amounts of garbage, they just need to have a way to secure it."

Stallings also recommended stiffer penalities, including $250 for first offense, $500 for the next.

County Commissioner Johnny Hutchins, who voted against the law from the beginning, said the survey conducted was just an attempt to fine people and isn't a proper way to find out if the "tarp law is working."

"That’s not a good way to determine if the people are cleaning up the county," said Hutchins.

Commissioner Jo Boggs said she would like to see stiffer penalties.

"I like your idea about increasing the fines," Boggs told Stallings.

Commissioner Eddie Holbrook agreed.

The commissioners are discussing removing "tarp" from the law but requiring people to securing with any means that does the job properly.

"You don’t have to completely cover the load as long as it’s secured," said Stallings.

Commissioners have scheduled a public hearing for the first meeting in September to change the fines to $250 for first offense, $500 for second, collect legal fees and change the wording of the ordinance.

No leash law but additional personnel possible

2007-08-07T14:16:00.000-05:00

The words "leash law" were seldom used but County Health Director Denese Stallings said she wants to add two additional animal control officers to help with nuisances.

"Rabies, dog bites and dangerous dogs. These are things that we have to deal with," said Stallings. "Comparing to other counties we are significantly understaffed. Right now were running a skeleton crew."

She didn't use the leash law terms directly but said she wanted to see if extra patrols works.

"I’d like to try this first and see if it works," said Stallings.

Hawkins said he was concerned that the state is ranked 4th in the state in rabies cases. He also said he was upset about the number of cats put to death.

"I don’t think we can continue in the mode that we are in now," said Hawkins. "When does the rabies issues stop. I’m looking for a solution and I’m getting aggravated because I can’t find one. There’s got to be some method."

It doesn't appear a leash law will move forward. The commissioners have said the ordinances on the book are suitable but just need to be enforced.

"I doesn’t matter if we have laws on the books if we don’t have the workers to enforce it," said Commissioner Mary Accor. "Adequate staffing is definitely a key."

Commissioner Eddie Holbrook agreed.

"The ordinances we have know are acceptable it just a manpower problem," said Holbrook.

The commissioners approved hiring two additional animal control officers in fiscal year 2008-09 but the motion. They also instructed the county manager to explore options of using current employees and increase their pay instead of hiring two additional employees.

The commissioners also scheduled a public hearing in order for the them to vote on whether to allow the county attorney to pursue legal fees for when the health department takes people to court for failing to pay their fines. Right now, Stallings said it’s not cost effective to pursue those fines with the court costs.

Live from the county commissioners work session

2007-08-07T13:47:00.000-05:00

It's 3 p.m. and the county commissioners work session is about to begin. They will be discussing a possible leash law, the tarp law and services to illegal immigrants. I'll be updated shortly. The leash law discussion is first on the agenda.

The meeting started and it doesn't appear that Health Director Denese Stallings is going to ask for the county to implement a leash law. She has asked for two additional animal control officers.

Tossing the tarp law out the window? - 8.7.07

2007-08-07T07:06:00.000-05:00

Today, the county commissioners will be exploring several issues. (I will be blogging live at 3 p.m. so check back for up to the minute decisions by the county).

One of the items on the agenda is the "tarp law."

A year has passed since the county implemented a tarp ordinance.

The ordinance requires materials to be covered by a tarp or other type of covering to prevent materials from falling out of vehicles. Solid waste in plastic bags is not considered covered under the law.

Since implementation, the ordinance has drawn criticism from several county residents and Commissioner Johnny Hutchins, who previously made a motion to allow residents to take up to three bags to the dump with out having to abide by the ordinance.

Today they will most likely make a decision on whether to change the law, get rid of completely or leave it the same. Check back later to see what the decided.

Challenging the vehicle tax - 8.6.07

2007-08-06T08:22:00.000-05:00

I have a car for sale: A 1999 Hyundai Accent 2-door hatchback for $1,740. That's what the government says its worth.

Have you ever got a vehicle tax notice and thought the total taxable value was a little high...or way high. Well my tax bill said my car is worth $1,740. I guess they don't take into consideration the 135,000 miles, two dents, a few scratches and a worn out interior. (I'm a reporter so the car gets a whole lot of wear.)

The bill said I owe $20.01. It's not that much but it's the principle of the matter. I think I'm going to challenge it. I went to Kelley Blue Book and found that the same car in fair condition is worth $1,100. In excellent condition its worth $1,745. So I'm going to challenge it.

Has anyone here every challenged their vehicle tax bill? Share your story. I will let you know how my adventure turns out.

DSS buries the dead - 8.5.07

2007-08-05T07:21:00.000-05:00

I was working on a recent story and came across these interesting mandates that the local DSS is required to do. I had no idea that DSS buries the dead.

-Fishing license waivers — Upon request, local DSS offices are responsible for issuing a waiver to people who receive Medicaid, Food Stamps or Work First Family Assistance benefits. DSS Director John Wasson said Cleveland County doesn’t have to do this often, but some counties with more prominent fishing opportunities handle quite a few.

- Burying the dead — What happens if someone dies and doesn’t have anyone to claim the body. Well, DSS steps in to claim the body. Wasson said it only occurs about a half-dozen times a year, costing the county between $300 and $500 each time.

Leash law coming soon? - 8.4.07

2007-08-04T07:43:00.000-05:00

After several reports of livestock attacked by packs of dogs and boy bit by a dog in Kings Mountain, the Cleveland County Board of Commissioners began to explore implementing a leash law.

This Tuesday, we should get an answer on whether the county will implement a leash law. The commissioners will be having a work session at 3 p.m. (I'll be there blogging live, so make sure you check back Tuesday afternoon to find out what will happen with the leash law.)

I've talked to several commissioners and it appears the leash law doesn't have a majority supporting it. But you never know how the commissioners will vote.

In February, the Cleveland County Health Department presented a draft proposal of a leash law to county commissioners.

The ordinance would require dog owners to keep their animals on their property or under restraint by a leash, chain or “other device of sufficient strength to maintain control of the dog by that person. Funding would come from the general fund or by implementing a pet license fee for both cats and dogs.

Shannon White's 2000 DUI charge - 8.3.07

2007-08-02T21:09:00.000-05:00

COURT DOCUMENTS: CLICK HERE

While doing a background check trying to determine what, if any, prior conviction points Shannon White would have if he is convicted of felony hit and run and involuntary manslaughter, I came across the 2000 driving while under the influence charge that was later dropped.

Shannon White is charged with the hit and run death of Johnathon Scruggs, an 18-year-old who was walking home from his first day of work and school. He was struck on Caleb Road, just yards away from his home.

Here are the details of the 2000 DUI case:

N.C. Trooper J. C. McClelland responded to a wreck involving White. According to court documents, at 10:11 a.m. on June 20, 2000 "He was involved in an accident. He had a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage on his breath, glassy red eyes and slurred speech."

He was arrested and taken to the Cleveland County Jail and given a breather analyzer test.

The test was administered at 12:01 p.m. White blew a .05, which is within the legal limit. Charges were later dropped in August.

Check back later today to take a look at the court documents yourself.

This weekend, there will be a story about what his potential sentence might be if he is convicted.

What do you think about this case? Share your thoughts here.

Recalled food and toy lists - 8.2.07

2007-08-02T13:09:00.000-05:00

Cleveland County Environmental Health Director Marty Allen and his staff spent Thursday morning searching kitchen shelves of day care centers and food pantries looking for more than 25 recalled products that could be linked to botulism.

County officials visited independent grocery stores, flea markets, child care centers, private schools, summer camps and recreational parks scouring kitchens looking for chili, beef stew, corned beef hash. The recall also includes some dog food.

Nearly a million Fisher-Price toys manufactured in China are being removed from toy store shelves worldwide, including Cleveland County, because the surface paints might contain excessive amounts of lead, which could lead to health problems if ingested by children

Elmo in the Giggle Box and Dora’s Talking Pony Place are among the roughly 100 Sesame Street, Dora the Explore and other children’s toys recalled by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on Thursday.

Stealing from a church - 8.2.07

2007-08-02T11:25:00.001-05:00

Long Branch First Baptist Church in Grover had their air conditioning unit stolen.

Copper thieves struck a Grover church and business, hauling off air conditioning units early Wednesday morning.

But once they got back home and started stripping the units, deputies arrived with handcuffs, officials said. One man took off running into the woods and the other was taken into custody.

“We believe they were dismantling them to take the copper out of them to sell them,” said Lt. Durwin Briscoe of the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office. “Recently, it’s become a major problem. It’s hard for us to trace down the copper once it hits the scrapyard.”

Hit and run sentencing - 8.1.07

2007-08-01T09:17:00.000-05:00

Barring any breaking news, A story about hit and run sentencing will be Sunday's centerpiece story in The Star.

I will be looking at what Shannon White could receive if convicted of hit and run and involuntary manslaughter. White has been charged with crimes related to the death of Jonathan Scruggs, who was walking home from his first day of work when he was struck and killed on Caleb Road.

Last week, I traveled to Charlotte to talk to a man who was hit while riding his bike on Providence Road. He was in a coma for three weeks, suffered brain damage and might never walk again. The man that hit him and left him on the side of the road received a 10-month sentence.

I will also be looking into proposed legislation that would increase penalties for hit and run drivers.

Patterson Springs wreck - 7.31.07

2007-07-31T08:53:00.000-05:00

Photo by Jeff Melton

A Cleveland County woman was thrown from her GMC Jimmy after she rolled it four times on Creek Ridge Road just outside the Patterson Springs city limits.

A Trooper on the scene said she was unconscious when she was taken to Cleveland Regional Medical Center.

More on Horace and my lack of bluegrass knowledge - 7.24.07

2007-07-24T09:58:00.000-05:00

For those that haven't met me, I'm not from here. The south is something new to me. I lived most of my life in New Jersey. So there are several things that northerners know nothing about: sweet tea, BBQ, Sonic to name a few. We also know nothing about bluegrass music.

So since my move to North Carolina about three years ago, I've been called on a few times to write about bluegrass musicians.

Here was my first attempt working for the Lenoir News-Topic almost two years ago: A story about Carl Story, who played for the Lonesome Mountaineers.

My second attempt was writing about Horace Scruggs, brother of Earl Scruggs. This morning I got an e-mail from Dr. Bobby Jones, who played with Horace in the FlintHill Band. He shared the following story:

Horace was not only an incredibly accurate rhythm
guitarist, but an all around good guy. Growing up on
the farm, he and his brothers became quite ingenious
at survival skills. Horace seemed to know how to do a
little of everything. He built his own home, he could
do auto work, he refinished furniture and worked on
grandfather clocks. Back in the days you could get
dynamite at the hardware store, he used it to blow the
large holes in the ground needed to set out pecan
trees. Man, I'd end up blowing up my house!
Here is a story about Horace I thought you might
enjoy. Years ago, I was working in the office one
day, and it was a real barn burner- sick folks
everywhere. My wife had a new stove, and called to
say it wasn't working right. I couldn't leave (and
wouldn't know how to fix it anyway) and gave her a
couple of names to call. When I got home, she was
cooking away, and I asked her what happened.
Turns out Horace was in the office that day, and
overheard the conversation. He brought his tools and
fixed it right up, and never said a word about it.
(Even his family didn't know all these years later.)
That was the kind of guy he was, always getting things
done is his own quiet way. We once did a Sally Goodin
take-off, and a truer catch phrase was never coined-
As the song, and your article, says, "Horace is a
Good'un."

Jeremy Leatherwood, left, is shown here with Horace Scruggs and a new Gibson guitar that was sent to Scruggs by Gibson on his birthday. The photo was contributed to The Star by Steve Leatherwood.

Christopher and Layfatte wreck - 7.22.07

2007-07-22T18:09:00.001-05:00

Emergency personnel from Cleveland EMS, Shelby Rescue and Cleveland Volunteer Fire Department responded to a two car wreck at the intersection of Christopher Road and Lafayette Street about 4 p.m. Sunday. One person in each vehicle was take to Cleveland Regional Medical Center.

KM Beach Blast photos - 7.21.07

2007-07-21T16:23:00.000-05:00

Watermelon eating contest

Jousting

Teenie Weenie Bikini Contest

Train rides

Getting wet

Hit and run update - 7.16.07

2007-07-16T12:27:00.000-05:00

Two months after Jonathan Scruggs was killed by a hit and run driver, spray paint marks still remain. Photo by Jeff Melton.

It's about 1:30. The grand jury is meeting in the Cleveland County Law Enforcement Center. Currently they are at lunch. I've been told that the Johnathon Scruggs' case will be presented to the grand jury today.

I went out to the scene of the hit and run this morning. Shattered glass and spray paint labeling where Scruggs' shoe landed still mark the spot on Caleb Road where he was struck and killed by a hit and run driver as he walked home from work last May.

Scruggs was found laying in a ditch near his Caleb Road home on May 23 by his father and younger brother, who decided to go look for him after he failed to return home after work and school.

The 18-year-old with Asperger’s Disease (mild autism)had just finished his first day of school at Cleveland Community College and his first day of work at the Five Guys restaurant in the Cleveland Mall. Scruggs got done his shift early at the restaurant and decided to walk home.

Troopers say a red 1998 Saturn, driven by White, struck Scruggs from behind. The wreck report states White was driving 60 miles per hour in a 45-mph zone. The impact smashed the right side of the car and windshield and sent Scruggs flying with him landing 67 feet from the point of impact.

Troopers said White told them hit thought he hit a mailbox or deer.

Shelby plans to sell farmer's market building - 7.12-.07

2007-07-12T15:03:00.001-05:00

Shelby will begin taking proposals next week on the farmer's market building. City officials said it's time for the building to be privately owned. Read more about the story by CLICKING HERE.

Wreck on U.S. 74 - 7.12.07

2007-07-11T11:13:00.001-05:00

A single car wreck sent one woman to the hospital after she rolled her car on U.S. 74 across from Big Lots.

Birthday Celebration - 7.9.07

2007-07-09T15:53:00.001-05:00

Board of Elections member Ruth Wilson celebrates Board of Elections Director Deborah Blanton's birthday Monday afternoon.

Fox bites 5-year-old - 7.2.07

2007-07-02T16:50:00.000-05:00

Two children, in separate attacks in the Kingstown area, were bit by a fox Sunday afternoon. Despite being bit by the fox, the five-year old boy choked the fox to death. The photo of the bite above, was shot at the hospital by his mother using her cell phone.

KM Councilman's house burns - 7.1.07

2007-07-01T17:48:00.000-05:00

A fire – most likely caused by gas stored too close to a hot water heater – ripped through a portion of Kings Mountain Councilman Keith Miller’s home Sunday afternoon.

Lining up for an iPhone - 6.29.07

2007-06-29T17:52:00.000-05:00

My co-worker Mark Van Buren snapped these shots just before 6 p.m. Friday. People were lining up at the AT&T store on U.S. 74 to be the first in the county to get their hands on the new iPhone.

European reporters and editors visit - 6.29.07

2007-06-29T15:22:00.000-05:00

Several European editors and reporters stopped at The Star Friday as part of the North America tour.

Bente Setervoll from Norway said the trip, which included stops in Toronto, Roanoke, Va. and Charlotte, was an opportunity to see the efforts newspapers are making to reach out to the readers.

"I’ve been focusing on paper-reader interaction and how we can engage our readers in conversations," said Ms. Setervoll.

She said the Cleveland County Kids publication developed by The Star caught her eye because the production is almost completely put together with user generated content.

"I’m impressed with the interaction," said Ms. Setervoll.

During the visit at the newspaper, the group toured the newsroom to explore the technology

The Star uses and had the opportunity to see the printing press. They also got to check out The Star Car, which will soon give reporters the opportunity to report live from events and crime scenes.

Horst Seidenfaden, a newspaper editor from Kassel, Germany, said he’s visited several larger papers during his trip but The Star used the most technology.

"It’s very modern, very interactive," he said. "It’s the smallest paper but the most progressive."

Marion St. sinkhole swallows SUV - 6.22.07

2007-06-22T12:49:00.000-05:00

Get Fit Shelby - 6.19.07

2007-06-19T09:47:00.001-05:00

The City of Shelby was recently designated as a Get Fit community. With that designation comes a roughly $50,000 grant to promote fitness within the city.

Soliciting children by computer

2007-06-13T12:48:00.000-05:00

For this weekend's Star, I'm working on an in-depth piece on soliciting children by computer. Here's what the story will focus on:

The county's efforts to catch people
The sentences predators receive when convicted
Legislation in the works to up the penalties
Safety tips parents can implement to help make sure their children don't become victims

I'd like to talk to some local parents to see what they are doing to monitor their children's online chatting. If you're interested in speaking with me for the story, please contact me at 704-484-7000 ext. 120.

Billy Graham Library

2007-06-12T13:51:00.000-05:00

This past weekend, a friend and I went to the Billy Graham Library. It's an easy drive and only takes about 30 to 45 minutes to get to from Shelby. Take I-85 to the Billy Graham Parkway. Take the exit and go a few miles. The entrance is on the left but you might pass it the first time. If you get to where the parkway meets I-77, you went to far. Admission is free. Here are a few photos I took.

I.C.E. Team case heads to court - 6.6.07

2007-06-06T11:41:00.000-05:00

Two Hispanic men, at the center of a Cleveland County I.C.E. Team controversy that head two local attorneys questioning the methods and motivation of traffic stops along I-85, headed to court Wednesday morning.

Jury selection began this morning. The trial is expected to continue to Friday.

About the stop
On June 14, 2006, Sgt. Rodney Fitch said he received a phone call at 4 a.m. from a U.S. Customs agent in Charlotte requesting the I.C.E. team pull over a vehicle that just left a warehouse under surveillance for drug distribution.

He said the agent told him the vehicle’s occupants, Jose Arrassaenz and Jose Rodriguez-Otero, just put several bags in the red Ford Ranger and were on I-85 headed toward South Carolina.
Fitch said he parked in the median and waited as the agent continued to update him about where the vehicle was on the interstate.

Fitch said he spotted the vehicle and then pulled behind it. He said he paced the vehicle going 70 mph in a 65-mph zone and said the driver crossed the white line twice. Fitch then pulled over the vehicle driven by Arrassaenz. Rodriguez-Otero was Arrassaenz’s passenger.

Court news - 6.5.07

2007-06-05T12:08:00.000-05:00

I'm in court today covering a couple of items on the docket.

Here's what has happened so far:

State v. Jerry Adams III
Attorney David Schweppe withdrew as the court-appointed attorney representing Jerry Adams III, who remains in the Cleveland County Detention Center to face seven sex related charges including indecent liberties with a child and second-degree rape.

Schweppe said he withdrew because of a conflict with Adams.

Adams, a 51-year-old former Shelby tax attorney, also faces federal charges after being indicted for improperly filing tax returns costing the government $3.8 million.

Adams was arrested on the sex charges in February, a month after he pleaded guilty in Raleigh to failing to file his own state income tax. He was give a 45-day suspended sentence, placed under probation for two years and ordered to pay more than $3,000 in court costs and restitution to the state.

Child bit by dog on N. Morgan - 6.4.07

2007-06-03T17:55:00.000-05:00

A Cleveland County Animal Control officer seized a dog from a fenced in yard at a home in the 800 block of North Morgan Street in Shelby around 6 p.m. after a child was bit by the dog. A child was taken to Cleveland Regional Medical Center. The child's condition is not known at this time.

Over the Mountain triathlon - 6.2.07

2007-06-02T15:45:00.001-05:00

Four hundred athletes began the race at Moss Lake swimming 1500 meters from one side at the boat launch to the New Camp Creek Road park area. The contestants then grabbed their bikes for the 45K course that finished at Patriots Park in downtown Kings Mountain. The athletes finished the competition with a 10K running event.

Left to right: Lance Leo of Charlotte, Kevin Lisske of Fletcher and Marty Gaal of Cary.

Athletes checking out their times.

Elizabeth Elementary honors a fallen son - 5.28.07

2007-05-28T21:35:00.000-05:00

Elizabeth Elementary School honored the son of fourth grade teacher Mike Bishop. His son was killed in Iraq Friday. Click here to read the story in The Star.

College Avenue wreck - 5.28.07

2007-05-28T19:41:00.001-05:00

A single car wreck on College Avenue in Boiling Springs sent four people to the hospital Monday night, one with serious head injuries.

College Avenue wreck photo 2

2007-05-28T19:35:00.000-05:00

City researches ways to launch homeless program - 5.25.07

2007-05-25T11:30:00.000-05:00

I spent the morning at a workshop presented by Roberta Macauley, the coordinator for Support Circles, a Raleigh initiative to help the homeless. Shelby is currently in the process of developing a similar program that involves churches forming groups to help the homeless.

Here's what Raleigh's program is all about. Read The Star this weekend to find out more.

What Raleigh’s "Support Circle" helps with

- Offers support services and resources (furniture, transportation, job seeking assistance, etc.) to enable individuals and families to move into permanent housing and to maintain stable housing.

- Assists individuals in achieving economic independence

- Empowers families in development and achieving long-term realistic housing, career, financial management and community participation goals

-Provides moral encouragement and companionship

- Gets families involved in the community and/or faith group

- Coordinates efforts with case manager from local community agency

- Provides financial assistance for a portion of the family’s rent and emergency expenses. (Rental assistance is available to individuals/families participating with faith and community Support Circles. Individuals and families are expected to pay 30 percent of their incomes toward rent. Remaining rent is paid through grant money and donations.)

Source: Raleigh’s 10-year plan to end homelessness program

KM store's lottery sales sky rocket - 5.24.07

2007-05-24T10:34:00.000-05:00

Jason Street, manager of the Silver Express in Kings Mountain, shows off a N.C. Education Lottery raffle ticket. His store's lottery sales jumped 90 percent since last quarter and was recognized by the state lottery commission. Read more about the store's efforts to sell tickets in an upcoming edition of The Star.

Truck and boat flip on U.S. 74 - 5.23.07

2007-05-23T15:10:00.000-05:00

A pickup truck hauling a boat ran off the right side of the road, over corrected, flipped and rolled on U.S. 74 around 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, according to N.C. Trooper J. Saucier. One person was taken to Cleveland Regional Medical Center with non-life threatening injuries. Saucier said the injured person was wearing a seat belt. He said it probably saved his life. Read more about the wreck and the Click it or ticket campaign in Thursday's Star.

City vehicle and car collide - 5.21.07

2007-05-21T11:23:00.001-05:00

A Shelby Public Utilities vehicle collided with a white Nissan at the corner of S. Lafayette and Sumter streets. Emergency personnel used the Jaws of Life to cut open the car to free a passenger. Two people in the car and the driver of the truck were taken to Cleveland Regional Medical Center. A report is expected to be available this afternoon.

Denver Rescue Mission brings hands help 5.16.07

2007-05-16T08:32:00.000-05:00

Brad Hopkins, director of Denver Rescue Mission's Family and Senior Homeless Initiative is in Shelby Wednesday to present information to the city's homeless task force. He will be discussing how Shelby can implement the program they operate in Denver.

For more on Denver's program visit: http://www.denverrescuemission.org/fshi/

Check back later for more on his visit.

Mitt Romney's son visits Shelby - 5.14.07

2007-05-14T19:25:00.000-05:00

Tagg Romney, the son of presidential candidate Mitt Romney, stopped in Shelby Monday night to talk with county Republicans. His stop is on the way to South Carolina to stump for his dad. Read more about how and why he left his job with the Los Angeles Dodgers to work for his dad.

Baby freed from locked truck - 5.11.07

2007-05-11T20:11:00.000-05:00

Shelby police and firefighters responded to a baby locked in a truck in Wal-Mart's parking lot Friday afternoon. After a few minutes, firefighters unlocked the door and the family was reunited with their baby.

Wrapping up for the day - 2 p.m.

2007-05-08T13:01:00.000-05:00

Council plans on recessing for the day. I will update later with new meeting times.

No COLI but performance pay hike approved - 1:55 p.m.

2007-05-08T12:54:00.000-05:00

Council members focused discussion on a 2.5 percent performance pay allocation with no overall cost of living increase.

Council member Jeanette Patterson said she would like to see all employees get some increase this year.

"I think everybody should have some kind of increase," said Mrs. Patterson.

Councilman Joel Shores, and a majority of the council, said 2.5 percent performance pay is acceptable.

"If everyone met that superior work, they would get that reward," said Shores.

Council orders reduction in ED funding to Cleveland 20/20 - 12:30 p.m.

2007-05-08T12:07:00.000-05:00

Councilman Bob Still proposed trimming the economic development funding to Cleveland 20/20 from $60,000 to $30,000. He said Kings Mountain contributes $30,000.

Over the last year, Kings Mountain has seen significant jobs announcements, such as Christ Craft and Indian Motorcycle, while Shelby has seen less few jobs created.

"We pay a tremendous amount of money to market something that is not there," said Still. "We're marketing an empty shelf. We're not getting much bang for our buck."

He said the city doesn't have very many empty buildings and property to market. He said once the city finishes some infrastructure expansions, such as the East Side Sewer Project, the council can go back and look at the funding. He said the expansion would open large tracts for development.

He said the city would be better off using the money for a code enforcement officer.

The mayor disagrees. He said it look bad to the private investors that are helping Cleveland 20/20 lure new industries to the area.

"I think that's sending the wrong signal for our economic development efforts," said Mayor Ted Alexander.

Councilman Joel Shores said the county and Cleveland 20/20 are doing a great job but finances are tough for the city. He said the strong relationship between the county and the city still needs to remain.

"We have a tight budget year," said Shores. "Kings Mountain is paying $30,000. They are seeing growth and we're not."

City Manager Rick Howell said he will abide by the decision. He recommended the council to meet with county commission chair and the county manager, but a majority of the council said they made up their mind already.

"If its the general consensus of the council we'll make the adjustment," said Howell.

Gas rate hike proposed - 12:45 p.m.

2007-05-08T11:30:00.000-05:00

City Manager Rick Howell proposed an increase to the city's gas rate. He said the rates are preliminary and haven't been finalized.

$1.50 increase in the facility charge for residential with $1.17 base margin increase, $2.50 increase for commercial with $1.23 base margin increase and $10 increase for high load factor with $1.02 base margin increase.

"People are using less gas when it's cold and it's hurting our bottom line," said Ted Phillips, the city's finance director.

He also said winters have been warmer than usually.

"A lot of our gas customers are not in the electric system," said Phillips.

Electric hike proposed - 12:20 p.m.

2007-05-08T11:10:00.000-05:00

City Manager Rick Howell proposed a 2 percent hike in the city's electric rate.

"We're looking at a little bit of growth by overall city wide it doesn't amount to much," said Brad Cornwell, the city's public utilities director.

He said a 48-unit apartment complex on Fallston Road and a new hotel have chosen city electric over Duke Energy.

Budget includes a mini excavator ($45,000 to be financed), service truck ($40,000 to be financed) and $320,000 in system upgrades.

More budget discussions - 11:30 a.m.

2007-05-08T10:25:00.000-05:00

Shelby council members will be meeting today at noon at the Utilities Operation Center on Grover Street for a third budget discussion workshop.

City Manager Rick Howell is expected to present budgets for electric and gas.

The council members might discuss the city manager's proposed general budget and the alternatives that have been drafted.

The original proposed general budget included a 3-cent property tax increase and a $2 solid waste fee increase while calling for five new city employees.

Truck crashes into woods 5.6.07

2007-05-06T15:11:00.000-05:00

Shanghai VFD, Shelby Rescue and Cleveland County EMS responded to a single-vehicle wreck on N.C. 150 just before 4 p.m. Sunday. A white pickup truck went of the road into a wood area just after Shelby Airport headed to Shelby.

Crest's JROTC competes.

2007-05-05T12:53:00.000-05:00

Despite the pouring rain, several JROTC teams from around the area marched in formation Saturday morning in the parking lot of the Cleveland Mall during a drill competition hosted by the North Carolina Foothills Detachment of the Marine Corps League. Among the teams, Crest High was the only local team to compete.

Lost dog to be reuinited with family

2007-05-04T14:10:00.000-05:00

This lost Pomeranian named Baby waits with Joan Spencer until her son can return from New York to be reunited with his lost dog. After a trip to visit his mom in Shelby, the son and his family stopped at the Cleveland Mall. While their the dog escaped. Find out the rest of the story in Saturday's Star or check back her later for the link.

Council requests budget options

2007-05-03T18:07:00.000-05:00

Shelby council members requested that the city manager prepare several alternative budgets with a different percentage of merit increases and with less new employees. They also requested the city manager to prepare a budget that included no property tax increase.

Sewer/Water rate hike proposed

2007-05-03T17:24:00.000-05:00

Shelby City Manager Rick Howell proposed a 5 percent increase in water and sewer rates Thursday night during budget work session with council members.

He said the city’s utilities are bracing for Copeland’s closure. Copeland is the third largest sewer customer and seventh largest water customer.

"We anticipate that line being closed by the end of the year," said Howell.

He said their utility usage continues to decline.

Water (5 percent rate increase proposed)

"The water customer base is flat and overall consumption is excepted to decline slightly. The rate increase recommended is intended to service the issuance of debt for the Westside Water Improvement Project once completed in 2008."

Sewer (5 percent rate increase proposed)

"The sewer customer base is flat and overall usage is excepted to decline slightly. The rate increase recommended is intended to service the issuance of debt for phase one of the Eastside Sewer Project expected to be completed in spring 2008."

Links to budget documents

2007-05-01T16:39:00.000-05:00

City manager's proposed budget message

City manager's proposed budget presentation

Summary of General Fund Expenditure

General Fund Capital

Budget summary

2007-05-01T15:36:00.000-05:00

General fund expenditure and revenue summary

Expenditure summary
3.5 percent pay allowance = $336,000
Group health insurance increase = $252,000
Police Department net increase = $180,000
Other departments net increase =$101,000

Total additional revenue needed = $869,000

Revenue summary
Current growth revenue expected = $218,000
Solid waste fee increase = $176,000
Property tax increase = $475,000

Total additional revenue = $869,000

Source: City Manager’s 2007-08 Budget Message

Some proposed revenue and exp. changes

2007-05-01T15:34:00.000-05:00

Selected proposed revenue and expenditure changes

Solid Waste Fees (revenue): The monthly solid waste fee for roll out customers is recommended to increase from $4.95 to $6.95 per month. It is my ongoing recommendation to council that the solid waste division services (roll out garbage and yard waste) transition to a fee supported system. This recommended fee increase would generate approximately $176,000 annually.

Personnel costs (expenditure):

A 3.5 percent performance pay allowance is provided for within the proposed budget. This amount has been allocated to each department but would be awarded on a performance basis under a new evaluation system now being developed. The total cost for this item is approximately $336,000. There is no recommendation for a market rate or cost of living adjustment in this budget.
"Ultimately, that will be a fair way to go about retaining highly qualified employees and rewarding them for performance," said Howell told council members Tuesday.
A 20 percent increase in health insurance is also expected based upon the stated renewal received from Blue Cross/Blue Shield. The approximate increase in cost for the provision of employee health insurance is $252,000. We continue to work toward an alternate plan that would maintain the current PPO plan but also offer a high deductible (HSA) plan. Under this option employees would for the first time, if they maintain the PPO plan, be subject to paying a monthly fee for their individual coverage. This option could lower this increase to 15 percent or approximately $189,000.

Source: City Manager’s 2007-08 Budget Message

City's challenges

2007-05-01T15:32:00.000-05:00

Challenges facing the city outlined by the city manager

Sluggish growth (1.1 percent) in the property tax base has been realized.
Slow growth in utility fund revenues that results from difficult economic times and an inability for various reasons to significantly grow the more profitable utility systems.
Rising employee group health insurance costs in double digit percentages despite a reduction in benefits last year and an overall good to average loss experience.
Retention of qualified, well trained and experienced employees in key positions is also a concern that I hope will be addressed with a new performance pay system this year.
A significant rise in energy cost that affects the natural gas system profits.
Elevated fuel costs continue to directly affect the delivery of services to the citizens of Shelby. All of our departments are reliant on fuel to perform the work necessary to serve citizens each day.
A continuing reliance by the general fund on utility revenue subsidies especially at a time when natural gas prices continue to be higher thus causing overall consumption to be down.
Aging utility systems and other city infrastructure will need significant investments of capital to continue reliable service and to meet safety and regulatory standards.
Reserves in the general fund are below levels that allow the city to appropriately manage risk, react and fund emergency situations and provide security for new debt issuance for infrastructure that is necessary for growth.

Source: City Manager’s 2007-08 Budget Message

Property tax hike proposed.

2007-05-01T12:08:00.000-05:00

Howell said with the additional general fund expenditures, $869,000 in additional revenue is needed.

He proposed a 45 cent per $100 valuation tax rate. That is 3 cents higher than the current 42 cent property tax rate.

He also proposed a $2 per month increase in the solid waste fee.

More staffing positions?

2007-05-01T11:59:00.000-05:00

Budget proposes new code enforcement officer, which would bring the total to 2. Additional position included in the human resources department. The HR posistion is for a risk management position. The position restores the position that was eliminated in last year's budget.

More SPD staffing?

2007-05-01T11:40:00.000-05:00

The proposed budget includes three new entry level positions in the police department, more overtime funding and money for a police department residency program. Three additional police officers would bring the staffing level to 74.

Budget discussions underway - merit raises discussed

2007-05-01T11:34:00.000-05:00

City Manager Rick Howell unveiled the 2007-08 fiscal year budget today during the first of several budget workshops with council members at the Utility Operations Center on Grover Street.

"This is very preliminary. I’ve been through the department requests," said Howell. "I had to scrutinize each item."

Last year, the city cut 16 positions from the general fund budget while maintaining the property tax rate.

The budget must be adopted by June 30. The fiscal year budget begins July 1.

When planning the budget, Howell said he focused around the goals of the city’s Strategic Growth Plan and council’s 2007-08 fiscal year priorities developed by the council several months ago during their retreat at First National Bank.

"There hasn’t been coli’s (cost of living increase) for the best two years," said Howell.

Employees will be eligble for a 3.5 percent. The proposed budget has $336,000 allocated for those employees that perform at a high level. The city is working on an evualtion process that should be rolled out within four months.

"Ultimately that will be a fair way to go about retaining highly qualified employees and rewarding them for performance," said Howell.

City budget planning

2007-05-01T10:29:00.000-05:00

Beginning at noon, I will be posting live from the first of several planned budget discussions for the City of Shelby.

City Manager Rick Howell said he plans to unveil the general fund budget today and the utilities budget Thursday.