The 06-06-2025 Edition of The Charlotte Weekly Matthews-Mint Hill
MATTHEWS – Oaklore Distilling Co. announced an initiative to support Hurricane Helene recovery efforts.
For every Oaklore cocktail sold at select participating bars and restaurants in the Charlotte area through June 30, the company will donate $5 to the Community Foundation of Henderson County up to $10,000. The American Whiskey
brand invites patrons across Charlotte to raise a glass for a cause.
Participating Charlotte bars and restaurants include: Catalina Kitchen + Bar, CharBar7 (Matthews), CharBar7 (Mint Hill), CharBar7 (Carmel), Dram & Draught, Dressler’s, Mac’s Speed Shop (Matthews), Mac’s Speed Shop (Steele Creek), Mac’s Speed Shop (Southend), Mac’s Speed Shop (Lake Norman),
Mac’s Speed Shop (Concord), Napa on Providence, O-Ku, Oak Steakhouse, Reid’s Fine Foods (Southpark), Reid’s Fine Foods (Dilworth), Scissors & Scotch, Vintage Whiskey & Cigar and Yunta. is fundraising e ort will aid in rebuilding communities impacted by the storm, with a focus on the Lake Lure and Chimney Rock areas. This region represents a signi cant part of Oaklore Distilling
CHARLOTTE – The Metropolitan Transit Commission voted May 28 to adopt an updated Transit System Plan.
e plan prioritizes the Better Bus program, which includes microtransit. It also details a phased implementation of the rapid transit corridors.
e plan represents a major expansion of transit serving the Charlotte region, including a 50% increase in bus service and 43 more miles of rail services.
e decision to approve this plan comes after nearly half a year of public engagement across Mecklenburg County. Four scenarios were developed and presented to the public that included the Better Bus program, Red Line and Gold Line extension. e scenarios varied in the mode and length of the Silver Line corridor and the Blue Line extension.
“ rough our surveys, 93% of participants indicated that more transit options are needed in Mecklenburg County and the time to act is now,” interim CEO Brent Cagle said.
“ ey also highlighted the need for increased frequency and connections to jobs, housing, education and daily destinations. We believe this updated plan meets the needs shared by our communities, and we applaud the MTC for their continued diligence and support of the communities that we serve.”
Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles said approving
By John Higdon Contributor
Editor’s Note: e Metropolitan Transit Commission voted to adopt an updated Transit System Plan on May 28 despite opposition from Matthews. Mayor John Higdon read this statement before voting against the plan.
I do not support the proposed Transit System Plan for several reasons. The vision for Matthews has long been one of thoughtful planning and strategic growth, underpinned by investments that position our town as a thriving hub within the county. From fostering a robust business environment to nurturing community spaces and
the plan is a milestone in the Metropolitan Transit Commission’s shared vision for the future of mobility in Mecklenburg County.
“ is plan re ects years of collaboration, community input and a deep commitment to building a more connected, accessible, and sustainable region for generations to come,” Lyles said.
accessible transportation options, the town’s guiding principles have always been centered on enhancing connectivity and our quality of life. Yet the current direction of this transit plan appears to challenge these foundational priorities. First and foremost, and despite my repeated pleadings to this MTC for over a year now, there has been absolutely no attempt to compromise with Matthews in any way whatsoever on the plan. e MTC has remained steadfast in a support of a severely awed funding model: a plan that was drawn up by Charlotte business leaders and championed by most town managers, not mine, and then this MTC before even basic costs were known in a classic case
Co.’s future.
e company is currently developing Oaklore Ridge, an 87-acre mountain property in the area, which will feature more than six miles of ATV trails, premium mini cabins, a communal home built for gathering and mountain-climate warehousing to age a portion of their barrels of bourbon and rye whiskey.
“We believe great whiskey should bring people together,
not just to share a drink, but to lift each other up when it matters most,” said Matt Simpkins, co-founder of Oaklore Distilling Co. “ e Lake Lure region is an integral part of our future, and we’re honored to contribute to its recovery and resilience.”
In October 2024, shortly after Hurricane Helene powered through the North Carolina mountain towns of Chimney Rock and Lake
Lure, Oaklore Distilling raised more than $50,000 with its Clear the Shelves for Carolina campaign. e company donated 200% of the cost of every bottle sold from its distillery retail shop in Charlotte.
“That campaign showed us what’s possible when a community rallies around a cause—and good whiskey,” Simpkins said.
On the web: oakloredistilling.com
County leaders update Transit System Plan
e Metropolitan Transit Commissions, which serves as the governing board for the Charlotte Area Transit System, consists of mayors across Mecklenburg County.
Matthews Mayor John Higdon opposed the plan because it did not prioritize building out the Silver Line East toward his town. Higdon said the plan ignores “$40 million-plus
Higdon: ‘MTC has turned its back on Matthews’
of “shoot, ready, aim.”
Under this plan, Matthews light rail passengers will need to travel seven miles outside the town to access the closest station. is plan disregards Matthews’ 30plus years of land-use planning for light rail service to our vibrant downtown, restaurants and businesses, the Novant Medical Center, our Sportsplex, the Matthews Athletic & Recreation Association complex, our 15 parks, our celebrated farmers market, CPCC Levine Campus, soon-to-be-built Hendrick Advanced Manufacturing Campus and the Discovery Place Kids Museum. Despite our town representing only a small portion of the
already spent on the Silver Line East design and the thousands of hours stakeholders spent determining its preferred route and station locations.”
Mecklenburg Commissioner Leigh Altman defended the plan, saying it expands bus service to 450,000 more residents across the county.
CATS o cials say most of the bus portion of the plan will be implemented over the next ve to 10 years. Riders can expect to see improved amenities, increased frequency and additional microtransit zones within that period.
e Rapid Transit Corridor System plan calls for the following:
• Red Line commuter rail from Charlotte Gateway Station to Mt. Mourne in Iredell County.
• Silver Line light rail from Charlotte Douglas International Airport to Bojangles Coliseum/Ovens Auditorium.
• Gold Line streetcar extension from Rosa Parks Place to Eastland.
• Blue Line light rail extension from I-485/ South Boulevard to Carolina Place Mall in Pineville.
• Future light rail extensions for Silver Line west to I-485 and east to Matthews and Blue Line to Ballantyne, as funding allows, with enhanced bus service in the interim.
Police investigate kidnapping case
MATTHEWS – The Matthews Police Department secured warrants June 2 for a Charlotte man wanted on charges of second-degree kidnapping, stalking and assault by strangulation.
O cers responded to a reported kidnapping after 11 a.m. June 2 at the 1400 block of Matthews-Mint Hill Road. Witnesses told o cers that a man forced a woman into a dark-colored BMW sedan and sped away. Police believed the man and woman knew each other. Police sought help from the public by releasing the identities and photos of the suspect and the victim as well as the type of vehicle reportedly used at around 1:40 p.m.
The suspect was identified as Logan William Calaway, 23, of
Charlotte, He was described as an American Indian male standing 5-foot-9, with short, curly, brown hair and brown eyes.
Police advised the public not to approach the suspect but to call 911.
Eighty minutes after the initial release to the public, police said the victim was safely located but Calaway was still at large.
Police provided a second update after 9 p.m. June 2, saying o cers secured warrants from the Mecklenburg County Magistrate's Office for Calaway’s arrest. The warrants involve charges of second-degree kidnapping, stalking and assault by strangulation.
Police encourage the community to call 911 with any information on Calaway’s whereabouts.
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NEWS BRIEFS
Carolina Theatre celebrates 60 years of ‘Sound of Music’
CHARLOTTE – Sixty years ago this year, nearly 400,000 people went to the Carolina eatre to see e Sound of Music during a record-breaking 79-week run. at number was larger than the population of Charlotte at that time. For more than a year, the Carolina Theatre showed the Julie Andrews musical on its screen, and every week, hundreds and thousands of people returned to Uptown to watch it.
Now, for one day this June, Carolina Theatre is bringing it back.
Carolina eatre will o er two showings of e Sound of Music on June 28 in honor of the musical’s 60th anniversary. A matinee starts at 2 p.m. A sing-along version starts at 7 p.m.
“ is movie will forever be a large part of our history,”
Executive Director Sean Seifert said. “We’re thrilled for its encore 60 years later.”
Tickets start at $10. Buy them at TheCarolina.com beginning at 10 a.m. June 6.
K9 catches car theft suspects
MONROE – e Monroe Police Department arrested two car theft suspects May 25 after tracking them for a mile with K9 Narco.
Around 3:30 a.m. May 25, an officer spotted a stolen Toyota Tacoma on Sunset Drive. e truck led the o cer to the dead end of Keswick Place, where the driver and passenger jumped out and ran into the woods, police said.
K9 Narco followed the scent through the woods and wheat eld for a mile before finding and apprehending the two suspects. One suspect was 17. e other was 14.
One of the teens received medical treatment for non-serious injuries
BUSINESS BRIEFS
Golden Corral rolls out campaign to support military kids
CHARLOTTE – Golden Corral has launched its annual fundraiser for Camp Corral, aiming to raise $1 million by June 15.
e nonpro t provides free summer camps for children of wounded, ill, and fallen military members. Guests can donate by purchasing Fundraising Stars, rounding up at checkout, buying special drinks or donating online at CampCorral. org. Since 2011, Golden Corral and Disabled American Veterans have raised more than $18 million, helping over 35,000 children attend camp. On the web: GoldenCorral.com/ locations
City Barbeque launches specials
CHARLOTTE – City Barbeque has added two items to its menu through July 29: Pork Belly Burnt Ends and Strawberries & Cream Cobbler.
e Pork Belly Burnt Ends are hickory-smoked, crispy fried pork belly cubes tossed in a jalapeño-honey glaze and topped with pickled red onions.
e Strawberries & Cream Cobbler features fresh strawberries, cheesecake batter and a caramelized brown sugar crust, topped with hand-whipped cream.
e Midwest BBQ brand’s summer specials are available at all locations.
On the web: citybbq.com
Rita’s adds zesty twist to menu
CHARLOTTE – Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard is adding Limeade Frozen Lemonade Ice Blender
sustained from the K9 bite.
ey were both released to a parent. e teens will be charged through the Department of Juvenile Justice for larceny of a motor vehicle and resist, delay and obstruct.
Waxhaw launches MegaMap tool
WAXHAW – The Town of Waxhaw has launched its Geographic Information System mapping tool, a digital resource to make it easier for residents to explore zoning overlays, upcoming developments and public projects.
The MegaMap provides up-to-date information that previously required navigating complex documents or in-person visits with a few clicks.
Visit Waxhaw.com under the Government > Departments > GIS/Mapping or visit https://townofwaxhawncmaps-waxhaw.opendata.arcgis.com.
Residents, developers, real estate professionals and stakeholders can use MegaMap to learn about new construction near a neighborhood, understand a parcel's zoning classification, or explore long-term planning initiatives.
e town has put together a short training video on YouTube at https://youtu. be/o1CEnBs9t1Q
Additional interactive maps, sharing insights about tra c, accidents and historic places, are also available at the Waxhaw.com GIS/ Mapping page.
Outdoor movie series coming to Fourth Ward
CHARLOTTE – Movies in the Park brings classic lms and food trucks to one of Uptown’s most charming green spaces.
The series takes place Fridays in June at Fourth Ward Park, 301 N. Poplar St. Music and food trucks
to its menu for a limited time.
For every Frozen Lemonade Ice Blender sold through June 29, Rita’s will donate $1 (up to $10,000) to Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, supporting families facing childhood cancer.
Since 2006, Rita’s has raised over $5.8 million for the cause.
On the web: ritasice.com
Sump’n Sump’n wins Scovie Award
FORT MILL – Sump’n Sump’n took home two third-place honors in the 2025 Scovie Awards, an international spicy foods competition.
Its Carolina Reaper blend placed in the Condiments-Hot & Spicy - Dry Rub/Seasoning-All Purpose category, while its original blend won in the Kid Friendly Table Condiments category.
Judges praised the products’ versatility and avor consistency.
“We're beyond thrilled to place in the All-Purpose Hot and Spicy category, that’s what the Carolina Reaper blend is all about,” founder Dirk Dachs said. “Use it instead of salt and pepper and the heat doesn’t disappoint. It’s addictive.”
On the web: getsumpin.com
K&L Gates announces leadership changes
CHARLOTTE – K&L Gates LLP has named Stacy Ackermann its next global managing partner, effective July 1, succeeding Jim Segerdahl.
Ackermann leads the rm’s global nance practice and has served on its management committee since 2019.
The firm also appointed Rick Giovannelli as co-chair of the management committee alongside Michael Caccese, who will step down in 2026.
start at 7:30 p.m. Movies begin around 8:30 p.m. e rst 100 guests receive free popcorn. Bring chairs, blankets and snacks.
e lineup includes:
• June 6: “The Greatest Showman”
• June 13: “Mrs. Doubt re”
• June 20: “Night at the Museum”
• June 27: “The Princess Bride”
Charlotte Center City Partners teams with Charlotte Parks & Recreation on the series.
Atrium Health screens to student-athletes
CHARLOTTE – Atrium Health hosted its 17th annual Heart of a Champion Day on May 31 in Charlotte, providing free, comprehensive health screenings to more than 2,000 student-athletes.
e event brings together orthopedic and cardiac teams to detect conditions that basic sports physicals may miss.
Screenings include heart checks, musculoskeletal exams, vision screenings and medical evaluations in one visit. More than 250 Atrium volunteers, including doctors, nurses and athletic trainers, took part in this year’s event.
e program has screened over 22,000 students since its inception.
Union Academy wins livestock contest
MONROE – Union Academy’s 4-H Senior Skillathon and Quizbowl Team walked away with top honors in team and individual categories at the 2025 Lenoir County Livestock Skillathon and Quizbowl contests.
e competition marked the third event in the highly competitive Supreme Skillathon Circuit.
Individual results included Aubrey Mekus ( rst place), Lacie Alexander (second place), Lindsay Van Art (third place) and Greyson
Under Segerdahl and Caccese, the rm saw 37% revenue growth and expanded into Dublin, Luxembourg, Nashville, and Kansas City.
Moore & Van Allen opens entertainment finance group
CHARLOTTE – Moore & Van Allen PLLC has launched an Entertainment Finance group within its Financial Services practice, co-led by new member Terrence “Terry” Dugan and Brett Moskowitz.
Dugan joins from O’Melveny’s New York o ce and brings 20 years of experience advising lender banks and private equity funds on major music, lm and TV nance deals.
The group represents agent banks, arrangers and borrowers in high-pro le cross-border entertainment transactions.
Charlotte Area Chamber events
CHARLOTTE – e Charlotte
Area Chamber of Commerce hosts Co ee with the Chamber and a Professional Training Seminar.
• Members meet for Coffee with the Chamber from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. June 10 at Hyatt Centric SouthPark Charlotte, 3100 Apex Drive, Charlotte. Register in advance.
• University of South Carolina Professor Drew Martin leads a Professional Development Seminar, “Unlock the Power of AI,” from 9 to 11 a.m. June 12 at USC Charlotte Regional Site, 200 S. College St. Charlotte. Registration costs $194. Register in advance.
Visit charlotteareachamber.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Latin American Chamber events
CHARLOTTE – The Latin
Rouse ( fth place).
Team results included Livestock Skillathon UA Senior Team ( rst place) and Livestock Quizbowl UA Senior Team ( rst place).
“ ese students have dedicated countless hours to studying animal science, industry practices and livestock evaluation,” agriculture teacher and coach Michael Alexander said. “ eir commitment and discipline are truly paying o .”
Weddington student wins sports award
CHAPEL HILL – Anthony Long, of Weddington High School, was among four senior lacrosse players to win the Tony Cullen Memorial Scholarship, according to the North Carolina High School Athletic Association Foundation.
The two-time lacrosse team captain earned Academic All-American, All-State, First Team All-Conference and Weddington Team MVP.
Outside of sports, he earned a 4.625 grade point average and induction into the National and Math Honor Societies. He also volunteered with Team 91 Charlotte introductory clinics, Wreaths Across America and National Honor Society drives.
Long will continue playing lacrosse at Colby College, where he plans to major in economics.
Schools meet state standard
CHARLOTTE – Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools recognized 29 schools for 100% compliance through the After School Enrichment Program. ey were visited by the N.C. Division of Child Development and Early Education.
Elementary schools recognized included Lakeisha Sharpe (Ballantyne); Latisha Cathey (Beverly Woods); Monica Montgomery (Collinswood Language
American Chamber of Commerce holds a free Zoom seminar.
• The chamber presents a free Business 201 seminar, Take Your Business to the Next Level, from 6 to 8 p.m. June 11 on Zoom. Register in advance.
Visit lacccharlotte.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Matthews Area Chamber events
MATTHEWS – e Matthews
Area Chamber of Commerce hosts a Touch-A-Truck event, Monthly Business Luncheon and Women in Business programming.
• The chamber presents a TouchA-Truck program for the community from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 7 at Stumptown Park, 120 S. Trade St., Matthews. ere’s a quiet hour with no sirens from 9 to 10 a.m. and a siren sound-o at noon.
• The Women in Business group gathers for a Garden Party from 5 to 7 p.m. June 10 at e Reid House, 134 W. John St., Matthews. Register in advance.
• The chamber hosts its Monthly Business Luncheon from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 11 at Christ Covenant Church, 800 Fullwood Lane, Matthews. Members pay $20. Others pay $25. Register in advance. Visit matthewschamber.org to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Mint Hill Chamber events
MINT HILL – e Mint Hill Chamber of Commerce hosts a Co ee Connections event.
• The chamber holds its Coffee Connections networking event from 8 to 9 a.m. June 6 at Sun ower Club Cafe & Outreach, 11211-122 Lawyers Road, Mint Hill. Register in advance.
Academy); Nina Gee (Cotswold); Jennifer Swart (Hawk Ridge); Segreta Mason (Matthews); Dana Montgomery (Pineville); Satina Jones (Polo Ridge); Michael Jenner (Providence Spring); David Gentry (Rea Farms STEAM Academy; and Chante’ Bryant (Sharon).
Transport program to boost pet adoptions
CHARLOTTE – Bissell Pet Foundation has launched a transport program to help shelter dogs in North Carolina nd homes faster. e initiative allows shelters to transfer pets to areas where adoption demand is higher.
Starting May 28, shelters will list pets on the program’s transfer platform. Charlotte Mecklenburg Animal Care and Control and Humane Society of Charlotte are participating in the program.
“Too many shelter pets are overlooked simply because they are in the wrong place at the wrong time,” said Cathy Bissell, founder of Bissell Pet Foundation. “Transport offers a second chance by introducing them to new adopters.”
On the web: bissellpetfoundation.org.
Charlotte adopts SEAP+ to advance climate goals
CHARLOTTE – Charlotte City Council has adopted SEAP+, an expanded version of the city’s Strategic Energy Action Plan.
e update includes new goals to cut emissions and shift to clean energy.
SEAP+ adds a climate risk assessment and new focus areas like water conservation and urban heat mitigation, while rea rming priorities like clean buildings and transportation.
Public input and local experts helped shape the plan.
• Wes Robinson, of Gameday Men’s Health, speaks at the Monthly Member Luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 10 at Olde Sycamore Golf Plantation, 7500 Olde Sycamore Drive, Mint Hill. Members pay $18 for lunch. Others pay $24. Register in advance.
Visit minthillchamberofcommerce.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Pineville NC Chamber events
PINEVILLE – e Pineville NC Chamber of Commerce holds its Monthly Co ee and Roundtable.
• The chamber holds its Monthly Co ee and Roundtable from 8 to 9:30 a.m. June 11 at Hilton Garden Inn, 425 Towne Centre Blvd., Pineville. Register in advance. Visit pinevillencchamber.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Union County Chamber events
MONROE – e Union County Chamber of Commerce celebrates two grand openings.
• Members celebrate the grand opening of Mothers Advocating for Real Change and Unwavering Support with a ribbon cutting from noon to 12:30 p.m. June 10 at 315 Matthews-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail. e organization helps mothers of homicide victims. Register in advance.
• Members celebrate the grand opening of the Levine Children's Hospital Emergency Department with a ribbon cutting at Atrium Health Union from noon to 12:30 p.m. June 11 at 600 Hospital Drive, Monroe.
Visit unioncountycoc.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
June 6 Bingo Club
Older adults play bingo during Mint Hill Bingo Club at Mint Hill Library. Register in advance at cmlibrary.org/ locations/Mint-Hill.
2-3:30 p.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
Youth eater
Lanti Performing Arts presents “Grease School Version” at Sun Valley High School. Tickets cost $20 for adults, $15 for ages 10 years and younger, and free for ages 3 years and younger. Buy them at lantiperformingarts.com.
7 p.m.; 5211 Old Charlotte Hwy., Monroe
June 7 Plant Sale
e Town of Matthews hosts a Milkweed for Monarchs Plant Sale at Matthews United Methodist Church parking lot. Plants will be available for $5 each at this drive-through sale. Only cash will be accepted. ere is a limit of 10 plants per person. matthewsnc.gov
8-11 a.m.; 801 S. Trade St., Matthews
Touch-A-Truck
The Matthews Area Chamber of Commerce presents a Touch-A-Truck event at Stumptown Park. ere will be a quiet hour at 9 a.m. and a siren sound-o at noon. matthewschamber.org
9 a.m.-1 p.m.; 120 S. Trade St., Matthews
Family Storytime Families engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Mint Hill Library. Registration starts 30 minutes in person before the start of the event. cmlibrary. org/locations/Mint-Hill
9:30-10 a.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
Family Storytime
Children, ages 0-5, engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Matthews Library. cmlibrary. org/locations/Matthews
9:30-10 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Paws to Read
Children, ages 5-11, read to a volunteer therapy dog at Matthews Library. Sign up for a 15-minute session upon arrival. Registration opens 15 minutes before the rst session. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Matthews
10-11 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Bash at the Splash e Town of Stallings presents Bash at the Splash at Stallings Municipal Park. The event hosts activities around the splash pad, including music, games, food and a performance by e Aloha Island Hula Girls. stallingsnc.org
10 a.m.-1 p.m.; 340 Stallings Road, Stallings,
Puzzle Swap
Mint Hill Library hosts a puzzle swap. Bring complete puzzles with more than 100 pieces (without any missing pieces). cmlibrary.org/ locations/Mint-Hill 11 a.m.-noon; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
Rainbow Family Storytime
Matthews Library hosts a Family Storytime for Pride Month featuring books that celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. cmlibrary.org/ locations/Matthews 11 a.m.-noon; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Pop-Up Market
Carolina Beer Temple hosts a pop-up market with food, crafts and other goods. carolinabeertemple.com
Noon-5 p.m.; 215 N. Ames St., Matthews
Youth eater
Lanti Performing Arts presents “Grease School Version” at Sun Valley High School. Tickets cost $20 for adults, $15 for ages 10 years and younger, and free for ages 3 years and younger. Buy them at lantiperformingarts.com.
1 or 6:30 p.m.; 5211 Old Charlotte Hwy., Monroe
June 8
Latin Fest
Latin Fest features performances by K-Paz De La Sierra, La Sonora Dinamita, Julio & Rafa and Anthony Vásquez in Downtown Monroe. e festival features food trucks, vendors, games and other attractions. monroenc.org
Noon-9 p.m.; Main Street, Monroe
Early Bird Trivia Teams play for prizes during Early Bird Trivia at Sweet Union Brewing. sweetunionbrewing.com
6 p.m.; 13711 E. Independence Blvd., Indian Trail
Charlotte Symphony
The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra performs Classical’s Greatest Hits during the Summer Pops series at Symphony Park. Gates open at 5 p.m. Music starts at 7 p.m.
MTC from 1A county's population, Matthews welcomes millions of visitors to our town each year.
This current transit plan also nonchalantly dismisses the $40 million-plus already spent on the Silver Line East design and the thousands of hours stakeholders spent determining its preferred route and station locations.
To paraphrase former Illinois Senator Everett Dirksen, "A million here, a million there, and pretty soon you're talking about real money."
I'm sure our taxpayers are thrilled that they have potentially paid for a design that will never be realized.
The flawed transit survey offered only four limited choices. For Matthews residents, this survey was akin to asking, “Which one of your limbs do you prefer to have severed?”
While I sincerely do applaud the overall e ort in gathering public input, a “none of the above” option should have been o ered and I suspect it would have been popular choice.
Still, sentiments to build the Silver Line to Matthews were very popular and among the most popular comments. e plan does not consider potential ridership numbers as a determining factor in what
Symphony performs atw 8:15 p.m. General admission tickets cost $15 for adults and $5 for youth ages 13 to 18. Buy tickets at charlottesymphony. org/summer.
7 p.m.; 4400 Sharon Road, Charlotte
June 9
Baby Storytime
Children, ages 0-2, engage in stories and songs during Baby Storytime at Mint Hill Library. Registration opens 30 minutes before the event. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Mint-Hill
9:30-10 a.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
Family Storytime
Children, ages 0-5, engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Matthews Library. Register at the train desk within 15 minutes of the program starting. cmlibrary. org/locations/Matthews
10:15-10:45 or 11-11:30 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Conversation Club
Students in grades 3-12 practice Spanish during Intermediate Spanish Conversation Club at Matthews Library. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Matthews
Noon-1 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Paws to Read
Children, ages 5-11, read to a volunteer therapy dog at the Matthews Library. Sign up for a 15-minute session upon arrival. Registration opens 15 minutes before the rst session. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Matthews
3:30-4:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Book Club e Far Horizons Book Club discusses “Stories Are Weapons: Psychological Warfare and the American Mind” by Annalee Newitz at Matthews Library. cmlibrary.org/ locations/Matthews
5:30-6:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Trivia
Shep’s Bar & Grill hosts a Trivia Night with drink specials. shepsbar.com
7-10 p.m.; 8111 Fairview Road, Mint Hill
June 10
Family Storytime
Families engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Mint Hill Library. Registration starts 30 minutes in person before the
routes will be funded or if this data was gathered, it wasn’t shared with this group or the public. e plan for the most part delivers light rail to our wealthiest communities and tells the blue-collar, working-class to go take the bus. is seems like a strange position to take when so many in this room repeatedly talk about the importance of equity.
Speaking of buses, I must comment on the much-ballyhooed BRT, of Bus Rapid Transit, that was pro ered to Matthews in the early days of the plan, but is now widely viewed as ine ective. What wasn’t good for Matthews – I am happy to see – you now agree isn’t good for the rest of the county either. is transit plan allocates quite a bit of the tax intake on the Better Bus initiative. As I have stated previously and and despite severely declining ridership from a decade ago, Better Bus may be needed but taking such a big chunk from a transit tax that was initially envisioned as an avenue to deliver light rail to Mecklenburg County feels like bait and switch.
is plan also speci cally calls for rail in the Mount Mourne station to be built in Iredell County. Everyone in Mecklenburg County should be outraged that this plan neglects to bring rail to east Charlotte or Matthews and yet delivers it to another county. I do not wish to pay the highest local sales tax in North
start of the event. cmlibrary. org/locations/Mint-Hill
10:15-10:45 or 11-11:30 a.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
Marvelous Math Children, ages 3-5, engage in stories and songs that build their math skills during Preschool Storytime: Marvelous Math at Matthews Library. Register 15 minutes before the program starts at the train desk. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Matthews
2-2:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Symphony Night
The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra performs during Symphony Night at Stumptown Park. e event opens with food trucks at 5:30 p.m., followed by performances by Letron Brantley at 7 p.m. and symphony at 8:30 p.m. matthewsnc.gov
5:30 p.m.; 120 S. Trade St., Matthews
PokéCard Trading Pokemon collectors are invited to show o or trade cards during PokéCard Trading at Union West Regional Library. uclnc.org
5:30-6:30 p.m.; 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail
Writing Group Members of the Adult Writing Group share ideas and feedback at Matthews Library. Register in advance at cmlibrary.org/locations/ Matthews.
6:30-7:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Trivia Night
Panzú Brewery hosts a Trivia Night around the theme of Disney classics. panzubrewery.com
7-8:45 p.m.; 7251 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
June 11
Baby Storytime
Children, ages 0-2, build language and socialization skills in Baby Storytime at Matthews Library. Register 15 minutes before the program. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Matthews
9:15-9:45 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Family Storytime
Children, ages 0-5, engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Matthews Library. Register at the train desk within 15 minutes of the program starting. cmlibrary. org/locations/Matthews
Carolina and one of the highest in the United States for that outcome, and I suspect I am not alone.
is plan also delivers a rail line that will terminate nearly a mile from the Charlotte Douglas International Airport. e airport says it has no plans to design or fund a mile-long people mover. Could it be that the airport prefers travelers to drive to the airport and pay for parking to fund one of their major revenue streams?
This plan is ill-conceived and makes no sense.
When asked during our last MTC meeting, CEO (Brent) Cagle admitted there is zero funding for any future extension of the Silver Line into East Charlotte or Matthews in this transit plan. Zero. Our constituents heard that message loud and clear.
Finally, when I was rst elected mayor of Matthews in 2019, I was happy to see Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles lead an initiative to have Mecklenburg County mayors meet periodically to share lunch and collaborate on issues. ere was a genuine feeling of esprit de corps then and “all for one and one for all.” Sadly, that feeling has disappeared. is MTC has turned its back on Matthews and has made no e ort to make any adjustments to a plan that de nitely creates winners and losers. at is unfortunate and that is why I will be voting no.
10:15-10:45 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Baby/Toddler Storytime
Children, ages 0-2, learn literacy skills through Baby and Toddler Storytime at Matthews Library. Register at the train desk 15 minutes before the start. cmlibrary.org/ locations/Matthews
11:15-11:45 a.m. or noon12:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Preschool Storytime Children, ages 3-5, engage in stories and songs during Preschool Storytime at Mint Hill Library. Registration opens 30 minutes before the program starts. cmlibrary.org/ locations/Mint-Hill
11:15-11:45 a.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
Microsoft Excel
Adults learn how to use Microsoft Excel at the Matthews Library. Register in advance for the DigiLit class at cmlibrary.org/locations/ Matthews.
2-4 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Paws to Read
Children, ages 5-11, read to a volunteer therapy dog at the Matthews Library. Sign up for a 15-minute session upon arrival. Registration opens 15 minutes before the rst session. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Matthews
3:30-4:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
LEGO Club
The LEGO Club explores math concepts while building at the Matthews Library. e club is for ages 5-12. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 4-5 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Anime Club
The Anime Club watches anime at Matthews Library. e club is for teens. Register in advance at cmlibrary.org/ locations/Matthews.
6:30-7:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Yoga Storytime
Synthia Gerson leads a yoga-themed Family Storytime at Matthews Library. e program is for children, ages 3-8. Register in advance at cmlibrary.org/locations/ Matthews.
6:45-7:15 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
June 12
Park Storytime
Mint Hill Library holds a
Family Storytime with stories, songs and movement activities at Mint Hill Veterans Memorial Park. cmlibrary. org/locations/Mint-Hill 9-9:30 a.m.; 8850 Fairview Road, Mint Hill
Baby/Toddler Storytime Children, ages 0-2, learn literacy skills through Baby and Toddler Storytime at Matthews Library. Register at the train desk within 15 minutes before the start. cmlibrary. org/locations/Matthews 9:15-9:45 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Senior Expo Charlotte Media Group presents the Let’s Go Senior Expo at the Levine Senior Center. The event includes a free brunch and opportunities to interact with local businesses and community groups that serve older adults. Get a free ticket at eventbrite.com. 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 1050 Devore Lane, Matthews
Preschool Storytime Matthews Library offers a Preschool Storytime for children, ages 3-5, with stories and songs. Register at train desk 15 minutes before the program starts. cmlibrary.org/ locations/Matthews 10:15-10:45 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
History Talks
Historian Tom Hanchett talks about his new book, “A ordable Housing in Charlotte: What One City’s History Tells Us About America’s Pressing Problem,” at Mint Hill Library. cmlibrary.org/ locations/Mint-Hill
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
Chess Club
Children, ages 5-11, practice and play chess during Chess Club at Matthews Library. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Matthews
4-5 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
June 13 Date Night Matthews Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resource hosts a Date Night Drop-Off at Crews Recreation Center. Parents get a night out while children, ages 6-13, play games, sports and other activities. e cost is $10 per child and $5 for each additional sibling. Pizza and snacks are included. matthewsnc.gov 5-9 p.m.; 1201 Crews Road, Matthews
School board makes statement about federal agents
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education issued the following statement May 13 following reports of federal agents near a school:
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education has received reports that federal immigration agents took a man into custody near Charlotte East Language Academy (CELA) on Monday, May 12, 2025. Although the incident did not take place on school property, we understand that it was witnessed by those on CELA property at the time. We recognize that this is unsettling for our school community and therefore the district is providing additional counseling support at CELA for both students and sta . Our commitment to the well-being of every student remains unwavering and we are dedicated to serving all students so that they can receive the best education possible for a promising future.
To date, federal immigration agents have not attempted enforcement on CMS property. However, the Board reiterates the legal requirements and
processes in place to protect all of our students, including the landmark Supreme Court decision in Plyler v. Doe (1982). All students are entitled to free, public education, regardless of immigration status. Federal agents are not permitted in our schools unless they have a court order or a warrant issued and signed by a judge. Schools are instructed that any presentation of said orders must be presented to The Office of General Counsel for CMS for veri cation and that any order or warrant is legally su cient, authentic, complete, and signed by a judge prior to taking any action. Unless otherwise required by federal law per the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), we do not divulge the legal status or any personal identifiable information regarding our students.
We will continue our best efforts to support and create environments in which our students feel safe and are conducive for learning despite what families may experience outside of the walls of our buildings.
REGIONAL
Here’s what to do during and after a hurricane
By Mike Causey Contributor
Previously, I’ve encouraged people across North Carolina to make sure they’re prepared for hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to Nov. 30. I’ve urged them to make sure they have adequate homeowners’ insurance, including a flood insurance policy and reminded renters that they need a renters’ insurance policy, as the landlord’s policy won’t cover their personal items.
I also reminded North Carolinians to compile important documents, such as insurance policies and
medical records, create a home inventory, identify potential hazards around your home and have an emergency toolkit and go-to bags ready in case you need to evacuate your home.
Today, I want to concentrate on what to do if a hurricane, or any other storm, is approaching. Here’s what to do during a storm:
• Shelter in place if officials advise it.
• Stay away from windows, glass doors and skylights.
• Find a safe place to stay in the interior of the home on a lower floor unless flooding is possible.
• Make sure your cell
market), 4423 Old Monroe Road – 99.5
Matthews • Food Lion (market), 9848 Monroe Road – 98.5
• Go Go Empanadas, 11229 E. Independence Blvd. – 96 • Longhorn Steakhouse,9950 E. Independence Blvd. – 97
phone is charged. Do not use a landline if lightning is present.
• Turn off the electricity at the main breaker if flooding becomes a threat.
• Remain indoors until officials give notice that it is safe to go outside.
• If officials order an evacuation, do not come home until officials advise it is safe to do so.
Once the storm is over, if there is damage to your home, I encourage you to beware of roofer and contractor scams. Most roofers and contractors are honest and above board. Sadly, fraudsters see catastrophes as an opportunity.
• Sante, 165 N. Trade St. – 98.5
• Seaboard Taproom and Wine Bar, 213 N. Trade St. – 98.5
Mint Hill • China Saute, 9248 Albemarle Road – 99 • Fortune Cookie III, 7211 E. Independence Blvd. – 88.5
Monroe • Franklin Court Grille, 232 E. Franklin St. – 94.5
• The Cupbearer, 410 John St. –90.5 • The Cupbearer (mobile food unit), 410 John St. – 94 Pineville • Comfort Suites, 10415 Centrum Pkwy. – 95.5
• Don Pedro Mexican Restaurant, 10015 Lee St. – 95 • Fairfield Inn and Suites, 12228 Park Road – 98.5
• Food Lion (deli), 317 S. Polk St. – 95.5 • Lola Ceviche & Peruvian Tapas, 605 N. Polk St. – 97.5
• Chabelita’s #2 (mobile food unit), 409 Spring Hill Road – 99.5
Wingate
• Great China, 3820 U.S. 74 W. –96.5
Geocaching reaches 25th anniversary
SEATTLE – Geocaching HQ is joining the geocaching community in celebrating the 25th anniversary of the world’s biggest game of hide and seek in 2025.
The game is happening right now, all around you, in parks, urban areas, on mountain tops and even underwater. Around 3.4 million geocaches are waiting to be found across the globe. Maybe you’ve heard of geocaching, but aren’t quite sure how it works.
Someone hides a container (a geocache) outdoors for others to find. They post the location coordinates and other details through Geocaching.com. Other players use the free Geocaching app or Geocaching.com to go outside and locate the container. Once found, they sign a logbook, rehide the container where they found it, and then share their experience online.
Geocaching makes it fun to explore the outdoors, discovering amazing locations and a robust player community in your hometown and around the world. Whether you’re on vacation, exploring a local trail system, or just trying to gamify your exercise, this treasure hunt has been entertaining people for 25 years. It’s all powered by players who place geocaches, creating adventurous outdoor experiences for the world to enjoy.
Geocaching.com launched in September 2000 with just 75 geocache locations. Since then, community members have spread the
game to more than 190 countries. There is even a geocache on the International Space Station, and a geocaching game piece on the Mars Rover. In 2024, a record 88.5 million “Found it!” logs were posted on Geocaching.com. And since the game began in 2000, more than 1.2 billion “Found it!” logs have been posted. These figures represent an extraordinary amount of global discovery, exploration and adventure for everyone.
As geocaching embarks on the next 25 years, exciting additions from Geocaching HQ are making the game even better, including:
• Treasures: Launched in March 2025, geocachers can collect digital items by finding and logging geocaches needed for each Treasure collection.
• Adventures: Expanding the ways people explore and learn about the world around them through interactive, community-created, self-guided tours and experiences. There are more than 81,000 Adventures in 180+ countries.
The worldwide geocaching community is marking the 25th anniversary by hosting more than 100 (and counting) large-scale events, including Block Parties, Mega-Events and Giga-Events. In doing so, they showcase another unique aspect of the game: the connections between people around the world, uniting through a shared spirit of outdoor adventure.
Learn more about geocaching, 25th anniversary celebrations and more at Geocaching.com.
One of the best ways to avoid such scams is to only work with licensed and insured contractors. If you suspect fraud, you may report it to the Department of Insurance’s Criminal Investigations Division at 919-8076840 or toll free from anywhere in North Carolina at 888-680-7684. You may also report it online at ncdoi.gov. If you have damage from a storm, here are some things you should do:
• Contact your homeowners’ insurance agent or company to report the loss. Even if you have a separate windstorm or hail policy in addition to your homeowner’s
policy, your primary homeowners’ insurer will investigate and adjust the claim even if you have wind or hail loss. Be patient as the insurer will likely be dealing with many claims.
• Make a list of the damage and take clear pictures before you make any temporary repairs.
• Do not make permanent repairs until your insurance company has inspected the damage and you have agreed on the cost of the repairs.
• If your home is uninhabitable, check with your insurance company to determine which expenses will be reimbursed. For more information, visit www.ncdoi.gov/disaster or contact the Department of Insurance Consumer Services Division at 855-408-1212. Mike Causey serves as insurance commissioner of North Carolina.
• Do what you can to stop further damage from happening. For example, if there is damage to your roof, you may want to place a tarp on it to prevent water from coming into the house. Keep receipts because your reasonable expenses to protect your property are part of the loss and may be reimbursed by your insurance company.
Bethel Music to perform at church
CHARLOTTE – Grammy-nominated
Bethel Music brings its 12-city Worship & Ministry Nights Tour to town with a performance June 7 at First Baptist Charlotte.
The group will be performing songs from its latest album, “We Must Respond.” Bethel Music has released 27 albums since 2001.
The group was nominated for a Grammy Award for the single, “Holy Forever,” featuring Jenn Johnson and CeCe Winans. The song won a Dove Award for Best Song of the Year. Get tickets for the performance at https:// bethelmusic.com/events.
Recently announced shows
• Goo Goo Dolls: July 25 at Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre
• Dylan Gossett: Sept. 18 at The Fillmore
• Hazlett: Sept. 22 at Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre
• Conan Gray: Sept. 26 at PNC Music Pavilion
• Avatar: Nov. 29 at The Fillmore
June 6
• Amos’ Southend: Bullet the Blue Sky
• Carolina Beer Temple: Shannon Lee & Tonya Wood
• Char Bar No. 7 (Mint Hill): Anna Kimm
• Evening Muse: Snorkeler and Kelsey Blackstone
• Grapes Bistro and Wine Bar: Theresa Eaman
• Great Wagon Road Distillery: Dusty Live
• Home Brew Taproom & Tunes: Country Joe
• Moochies Tavern: Sweet Talkin’ Johnny
• Neighborhood Theatre: Keller Williams
• Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre: Dispatch w/ John Butler
• Southern Range Brewing: Carrie Ann
• Stooges Pub & Grub: High Fidelity
• Stumptown Station: Matt McKinley
• The Club House: Palmetto Drive
• Visulite Theatre: Greer
June 7
• Amos’ Southend: New Sensation
• Evening Muse: Bedroom Division and briZB
• Home Brew Taproom & Tunes: Rusty Pilot
• Local Logic: David Grogan
• Moochies Tavern: Grüv Soup
• Peddlers Paradise Bartique: Traxx Duo
• Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre: Barenaked Ladies
• Southern Range Brewing: Even the Losers
• Stooges Pub & Grub: Blonde Ambition
• The Amp Ballantyne: The Beach Boys
• Treehouse Vineyards: Comfortable Shirt
• Visulite Theatre: Mountain Grass Unit
• Waxhaw Taphouse: Groove Machine
June 8
• Evening Muse: The 4411 w/ Juniper
• Neighborhood Theatre: American Aquarium w/ Justin Wells
• The Club House: Thom Crumpton
• Visulite Theatre: Ballantyne School of Music
June 9
• Evening Muse: Open mic
• The Fillmore: Dance Gavin Dance
June 10
• Evening Muse: Adeem the Artist
• The Fillmore: Jack’s Mannequin
June 11
• Neighborhood Theatre: Kennedy Ryon
• Peddlers Paradise Bartique: Open mic
• The Club House: Darren Deese
• The Underground: Saba
June 12
• Char Bar No. 7 (Carmel): Jarrett Raymond
• Char Bar No. 7 (Mint Hill): Scoot Pittman
• Evening Muse: Evan Bartels w/ Christopher Paul Stelling
• Iron Thunder Saloon & Grill: Adam Daniels
• Neighborhood Theatre: Theo Kandel
• The Fillmore: Dope Lemon
• Visulite Theatre: Bear Hands
June 13
• Amos’ Southend: Lyn Lapid
• Char Bar No. 7 (Mint Hill): Ellie Morgan
• Evening Muse: Kaitlin Butts
• Knight Theater: Lindsey Stirling
• Mac’s Speed Shop (Matthews): Matthew Ablan
• Moochies Tavern: Coconut Groove Band
• Neighborhood Theatre: Akeem Ali
• Southern Range Brewing: Traxx Trio
• Stooges Pub & Grub: Dialup Radio
• Stumptown Station: Wagon Load A Trouble
• The Amp Ballantyne: Foreigners Journey
• The Club House: Smokin’ Gunn
• The Trail House: U-Phonik
• Treehouse Vineyards: Party Parrot
Live Music Venues
Charlotte
• Amos’ Southend: 1423 S. Tryon St.
• Char Bar No. 7: 4130 Carmel Road
• Evening Muse: 3227 N. Davidson St.
• Knight Theater: 430 S. Tryon St.
• Neighborhood Theatre: 511 E. 36th St.
• Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre: 1000 NC Music Factory Blvd.
• The Amp Ballantyne: 11115 Upper Ave.
• The Club House: 16709 Orchard Stone Run
• The Fillmore: 820 Hamilton St.
• The Underground: 820 Hamilton St.
• Visulite Theatre: 1615 Elizabeth Ave.
Indian Trail
• Grapes Bistro and Wine Bar: 6461 Old Monroe Road
• The Trail House: 6751 Old Monroe Road
Matthews
• Mac’s Speed Shop: 142 E. John St.
• Stumptown Station: 107 N. Trade St.
Mint Hill
• Char Bar No. 7: 7312 Town View Drive • Stooges Pub & Grub: 13230 Albemarle Road Monroe
Home Brew Taproom & Tunes: 215 S. Main St.
Iron Thunder Saloon & Grill: 608 W. Roosevelt Ave.
• Local Logic: 128 S. Main
We can prevent the tragedy of youth suicide
By Meghan Talbott Contributor
I hope that you never experience the pain of losing a child to suicide. And I hope that no other parent has to go through something like that twice. Unfortunately, that’s what happened to our family.
My boys meant the world to me. Jackson loved animals, especially dogs, and he enjoyed being creative and inventive. Lucas had a big smile. He liked watching cartoons with his little brothers. He loved to read. And he even tried to take up sur ng as a hobby. Both of them were loved.
ey also dealt with mental health issues in the form of anxiety, depression and substance use. Lucas suffered from bouts of paranoia and psychosis, while Jackson
was diagnosed with ADD and ODD. Neither received the kind of help they needed and their lives ended way too soon.
In December 2017, we were living a comfortable life in a nice home in a beautifully wooded Northern California neighborhood. I had spent much of the day Christmas shopping and then came home to find that my oldest son Jackson was not in the house. I assumed that he was out visiting friends, which he said he might do, but then he didn’t come home that night.
We called the police. ey told us to be patient. We woke up and he still wasn’t there. e police came by. There wasn’t much they could do. It was later that morning when I heard my husband scream from the backyard that I knew Jackson
was gone. at nightmare repeated itself three and a half years later when I got a text from Lucas’s best friend that he had sent an image of the Golden Gate Bridge with a goodbye. It was hours before it was con rmed that he had jumped. ey have yet to recover his body.
How do you even begin to heal, especially when it happens not once, but twice? How do you begin to deal with such loss as a parent, especially when you have other children to raise?
Our family needed a fresh start. We needed to nd a home where the memories weren’t so thick and where every sports eld and school event didn’t immediately make us think of them.
So, we decided to move to Davidson, North Carolina. We found friends and
neighbors. We got settled and I began volunteering with NAMI Charlotte, a mental health advocacy nonpro t. Volunteering helped me to nd community and purpose while learning to live with the grief. Suicide is the third leading cause of death for youth ages 10 to 18. And it a ects families more than we realize. According to NC DHHS, for every youth suicide in 2022, there were 11 hospitalizations and 59 emergency room visits for self-harm. According to the nonpro t NC Child, over 9% of high school students in North Carolina attempted suicide in 2023.
e issue is complicated and every story is unique. But we know enough to try and make a di erence, save lives and keep other families from becoming a statistic.
The place to start is through early detection, diagnosis and then treatment of mental health conditions.
We should pay attention to warning signs and make treatment more accessible. We should make mental health care a required part of any health insurance coverage. We should treat mental health the same as any other condition. And we should meet teenagers where they are.
at’s why I support the Jason Flatt Act in North Carolina, which would provide suicide prevention training to school personnel. It’s named after a young man who died from suicide, and whose story is similar to Jackson and Lucas. We owe it to them and to so many others who died so tragically.
I used to think that my story was just sad but I have
come to realize there’s hope in it. I am still a wife and a mother to my three wonderful, surviving children. And there is a lot of work for me to do. at’s why I will continue to share about Jackson and Lucas, their lives and their struggles, so that we can try to prevent the tragedy of youth suicide from happening to someone else.
Meghan Talbott is the secretary and volunteer coordinator for NAMI Charlotte.
Veterans leader has concerns about bills addressing homelessness
By Benjamin Horton Contributor
As a U.S. Navy veteran, I am honored to manage a team that serves other veterans who find themselves without a home in North Carolina. In my role as director of outreach for Veterans Services of e Carolinas, our team collaborates daily with the faith-based community, mental health and substance use providers, LME/MCOs, law enforcement, housing providers and others across all 100 counties of North Carolina. That has provided us with deep insight on what works and what doesn’t. Two bills in the N.C. General Assembly will have a direct impact on our communities, service providers, law enforcement and those we serve. Both are promoted – as they were in other targeted states – by an interest group out of Austin, Texas, called Cicero Action. One bill, H437, would criminalize nonpro ts like ours by
threatening felony charges if drug activity occurs within 100 feet of our facilities – an extreme and unworkable standard that punishes service providers for circumstances beyond their control. e other, H781, establishes new requirements on cities and counties to set up state-sanctioned homeless encampments for up to a year without additional funding. Going after nonprofits and supporting unfunded mandates is not on-brand for the State of North Carolina, but neither is disrespecting our faith-based and veteran leaders who the Cicero lobbyists characterize as unserious activists. Representatives for four bishops overseeing 1,200 NC Episcopal and United Methodist churches joined Veterans Services of e Carolinas and other veterans in sharing concerns about these bills and the impacts they will have at multiple House committee podiums. And yet, the bill passed out of the House and now awaits a round of committee
Move to Waltonwood and spend
hearings for Senate passage. Under the guise of a self-described think tank, the Cicero Institute – in the absence of data – blames the Housing First model for the increase of homelessness. From Texas, it declares there is no lack of a ordable housing in North Carolina and glosses over how two out of three of its residents experiencing homelessness in recent years are experiencing it for the rst time, according to the N.C. Coalition to End Homelessness. Prioritizing housing with wrap-around services – the housing rst model – has been the US Department of Veteran Affairs approach since 2012. More than 133,000 veterans were housed and provided with supportive services to help them retain housing over the last three years. The practice was first introduced by the George W. Bush Administration and has enjoyed subsequent bipartisan support because of data showing its e ectiveness. e average number of returns to
homelessness across the state utilizing Housing First is less than 13%.
The City of Raleigh estimates it costs $96,000 a year in emergency services, law enforcement and health care for a homeless person living outside, as reported by The News & Observer. Putting someone in a home and making services available costs $20,000 saving taxpayers’ $76,000 per person, the newspaper reported.
Another local government projected the cost of installing just one Green ow unit to provide the bill’s requirement of running water and restrooms can cost up to $200,000 alone. Will local governments have to add this cost and others in their capital improvement or their regular budgets to meet the state’s approval? Will property tax increases be required to move the state-sanctioned encampments around each year? Additionally, legal counsels from local governments have raised concerns about increased liability and
incarceration along with decreased local control – as reported by their colleagues in states where the Cicero bills have passed into law.
Cicero offers no data to indicate its proposal will do anything to end homelessness – just make it less visible. A month after the Florida encampment law went into e ect last year, the first lawsuit was filed-- resulting in a hasty sweep of an encampment without a plan for where people would go. Ongoing treatment for substance use and medications for mental illness are interrupted or lost when caseworkers and peer support specialists cannot nd those they serve. State-sanctioned, compulsive homeless encampments will drive unsheltered veterans further from the resources needed and further away from sustainable recovery, while putting the onus on our local law enforcement.
In the context of our annual observance of Memorial Day, I don’t think our
leaders should support this legislation by passing laws that criminalize those who have given up so much for the freedoms we enjoy. Our General Assembly members would serve their communities more e ectively by investing in solutions that have been proven to work and are cost e ective.
Benjamin Horton serves as director of outreach for Veterans Services of the Carolinas
CLASSIFIEDS
Software Engineer – PMAB, LLC dba Meduit – Charlotte, NC. Resp for crtng SW dsgns fr xstng SW reqs & implmntng new feturs fr new & xstng dsgns, as well as suppt’g xstng SW & prvdng guidnc & supp to oth dvlprs. Reqs bach deg (or FDE) in Computer Sci or rltd tchncl fld + 4 yrs exp as a Sftwr Dvlpr or rltd occ. Mst hv exp in: anlytcs; trblshtng; SDLC bst prctcs & proj mthdolgs; wrtng secr web svc endpnts & web pgs; rltnl DBs, spcfcly MySQL (or MariaDB); core Java & JSP; SQL; wrtng cmplx/advncd queries; Javascript & Ajax/jQuery; SW dsgn prncpls & bst prctcs; HTML & CSS; cnfgr’g & mng’g Apache Tomcat; dplyng web apps (war); OWASP scr prgrmng bst prctcs; rdng, anlyzg, & intprtng gnrl bus prdcls, prfsnl jrnls, tchncl prcdrs, or govrnmtl regs; wrtng rpts & bus corr; advnc qntitatv skills; slvng prctcl probs; delng w/ a var of cncrt varbls in situtns whr only ltd stndrdztn exists; intprtg a var of instrctns frnshd in wrtn, oral, dgrm, or schdl form; DB SW; int SW; SS SW; & word prcs’g SW. 100% telcmtng role – may wrk fr anywr insd the U.S.; rprts to comp HQ in Charlotte, NC. Mst hv lgl auth to wrk in the U.S. EEOE. Send resumes to Christine Dennis, HR Director, Meduit RCM, 5045 Franklin Ave., Waco, TX 76710, or email to christine.dennis@meduitrcm.com. Pls ref job title + TP25 in cvr ltr or eml subj ln.
Lead Data Systems Engineer, F/T at Truist Bank (Charlotte, NC) Provide consultation & tech’l direction on translating business reqmts & functional specs into logical prgm dsgns. Serve as a tech’l expert for project teams throughout the implmtn & maintenance of business & enterprise s/ ware solutions. Personally dvlp & deliver code modules, stable application systems, & integrated enterprise s/ware solutions
w/in various computing environments. Support SIT & UAT for large, complex, cross-functional application initiatives by providing insight to testing teams. Must have a Bach’s deg in Comp Sci, Comp Engg, Electrical/Electronics Engg or related tech’l field. Must have 5 yrs of progressive exp d/base administration or IT Infrastructure positions performing/ utilizing the following: working on project(s) involving the implmtn of solutions applying dvlpmt life cycles (SDLC); supporting DBMS’ incl MySQL & PostgreSQ; Cloud environments (incl AWS) & d/bases (incl Aurora) in the cloud environment; performing MySQL d/base administration in complex environments incl backups & monitoring; performing PostgreSQL d/base administration in complex environments incl backups & monitoring; writing & optimizing SQL statements; & demonstrating expertise w/ Ansible automation. Position may be eligible to work hybrid/remotely but is based out of & reports to Truist offices in Charlotte, NC. Must be available to travel to Charlotte, NC regularly for meetings & reviews w/ manager & project teams w/ in 24-hrs’ notice. Apply online (https:// careers.truist.com/) or email resume to: Paige.Whitesell@Truist.com
Ardrey Kell wins state title in women’s soccer
MATTHEWS – The Ardrey Kell Knights won the NCHSAA 4A Women’s Soccer Championship with a 2-1 win against the Ashley Screaming Eagles on May 31 at the Matthews Sportsplex.
Ellie Riechman scored off an assist from Rhyan Winnek in the fourth minute of the game to put Ardrey Kell ahead in the first half. Ardrey Kell outshot Ashley, 6-2, in the first 40 minutes and earned four corner kicks while the Eagles didn’t earn a corner until the second half.
Four minutes into the second half, Makayla Rodriguez scored off an assist from Brooke Watts to put Ardrey Kell up 2-0. Ashley scored with 11 minutes left but the Knights held on for the win. Goalkeeper Waleska Rugel Gonzalez tallied three saves in the win.
Riechman was named the Most Valuable Player. The NCHSAA also recognized Delaney Newton, of Ardrey Kell, with a 4A Soccer Sportsmanship Award.
Ardrey Kell finished the season with a 23-3-4 record, which included a 1-1 tie with Ashley on April 14. The two teams also played in the 2023 state championship, in which Ardrey Kell won its first women’s soccer title.
4A schools in the playoffs
Here is how area schools fared in the NCHSAA 4A Women’s Soccer playoffs:
• No. 12 Ardrey Kell defeated No. 21 Cuthbertson, 2-1, in the first round; No. 5 West Forsyth, 2-1, in the second round; No. 4 Hough, 2-0, in the third round; No. 1 Hickory Ridge, 2-0, in the
Union Academy wins state softball championship
MONROE – The Union Academy Cardinals won their second title in three years with a sweep of Perquimans in the NCHSAA 1A Softball Championship Series.
The Cardinals (29-1) completed the sweep with a 4-1 win on May 31 at Duke Softball Stadium.
Avery Wilson threw a complete game, allowing one unearned run on two hits while striking out 11 batters. She also went 1-for-2 at the plate on her way to winning the Most Valuable Player award.
The Cardinals scored a pair of runs in the bottom of the second inning as Keilana Burgess singled home Mckynzy Nash and Avery Chaney lifted a sac fly. Laney Hildreth and Chaney hit back-to-back RBI singles in the fourth.
Local teams in the playoffs Several teams from southern Mecklenburg and Union counties qualified for the playoffs.
1A
• No. 1 Union Academy defeated No. 32 Bessemer City, 17-0, in the first round; No. 17 South Stanly, 10-0, in the second round; No. 9 Draughn, 8-0, in the third round; No. 12 Murphy, 9-0, in the fourth round; No. 2 East Wilkes, 2-0, in the regional; and No. 1 Perquimans, 2-0, in the championship.
• No. 18 Queen's Grant lost to No. 15 Highland Tech, 4-2, in the first round.
3A
• No. 7 Piedmont defeated No. 26 Tuscola, 1-0, in the first round and No. 10 West Rowan, 3-2, in the second round. Piedmont lost to Rockingham County, 11-1, in the third round.
• No. 21 Parkwood defeated No. 12 West Henderson, 12-10, in the first round and lost to No. 5 Crest, 11-0, in the second round.
• No. 10 Central Academy lost to Oak Grove, 5-2, in the first round.
4A
• No. 1 Weddington defeated No. 32 East Mecklenburg, 10-0, in the first round; No. 17 Lake Norman, 2-0, in the second round; No. 9 McDowell, 8-0, in the third round; and No. 12 Reagan, 3-0, in the fourth round. Weddington lost to No. 10 South Caldwell, 2-0, in the regional final.
• No. 5 Independence defeated No. 28 Hopewell, 9-2, in the first round and lost to No. 12 Reagan, 6-3, in the second round.
• No. 8 Ardrey Kell defeated No. 25 Glenn, 6-5, in the first round and lost to No. 9 McDowell, 5-1, in the second round.
• No. 11 Marvin Ridge defeated No. 22 Northwest Guilford, 16-6, in the first round and lost to No. 6 Northern Guilford, 10-8, in the second round.
• No. 13 Providence defeated No. 20 Charlotte Catholic, 4-3, in the first round and lost to No. 4 Hickory Ridge, 7-5, in the second round.
• No. 14 Cuthbertson lost to No. 19 South Iredell, 11-6, in the first round.
• No. 20 Charlotte Catholic lost to No. 13 Providence, 4-3, in the first round.
• No. 23 Porter Ridge lost to No. 10 South Caldwell, 14-2, in the first round.
• No. 24 Sun Valley lost to No. 9 McDowell, 15-0, in the first round.
• No. 27 South Mecklenburg lost to No. 6 Northern Guilford, 4-1, in the first round.
• No. 29 Myers Park lost to No. 4 Hickory Ridge, 10-1, in the first round.
• No. 32 East Mecklenburg lost to No. 1 Weddington, 10-0, in the first round.
fourth round; No. 2 Charlotte Catholic, 2-1, in the regional final; and No. 12 Ashley, 2-1, in the championship.
• No. 2 Charlotte Catholic defeated No. 31 Butler, 6-1, in the first round; No. 18 T.C. Robertson, 7-1, in the second round; No. 10 Marvin Ridge, 2-1, in the third round; and No. 3 Weddington, 4-1, in the fourth round. Catholic lost to No. 12 Ardrey Kell, 2-1, in the regional final.
• No. 3 Weddington defeated No. 30 R.J. Reynolds, 2-1, in the first round; No. 14 Northwest Guilford, 2-0, in the second round; and No. 27 Hopewell, 2-0, in the third round. Weddington lost to No. 2 Charlotte Catholic, 4-1, in the fourth round.
• No. 8 Myers Park defeated No. 25 Watauga, 9-0, in the first round
and No. 24 Page, 4-0, in the second round. They lost to No. 1 Hickory Ridge, 1-0, in the third round.
• No. 10 Marvin Ridge defeated No. 23 Grimsley, 2-0, in the first round and No. 7 Asheville, 4-1, in the second round. They lost to No. 2 Charlotte Catholic, 2-1, in the third round.
• No. 16 Providence defeated No. 17 East Forsyth, 5-2, in the first round and lost to No. 1 Hickory Ridge, 2-1, in the second round.
• No. 22 South Mecklenburg defeated No. 11 Mooresville, 2-1, in the first round and lost to No. 27 Hopewell, 1-0, in the second round.
• No. 20 Sun Valley lost to No. 13 Lake Norman, 6-1, in the first round.
• No. 21 Cuthbertson lost to No. 12 Ardrey Kell, 2-1, in the first round.
• No. 29 Porter Ridge lost to No. 4 Hough, 2-0, in the first round.
• No. 31 Butler lost to No. 2 Charlotte Catholic, 6-1, in the first round.
Other schools in the playoffs Here is how area schools fared in the NCHSAA Women’s Soccer playoffs in other classifications:
• No. 9 Piedmont lost, 2-1, to No. 24 North Buncombe in the first round of the 3A tournament.
• No. 29 Parkwood lost, 8-0, to No. 4 Lake Norman Charter in the first round of the 3A tournament.
• No. 7 Union Academy defeated No. 26 Cherryville, 11-0, in the first round of the 1A tournament. They lost to No. 23 Bradford, 5-4 in the second round.
Fiscal fantasies threaten our economic future
By John Hood Contributor
RALEIGH – I wrote my first book –about what’s now called corporate ESG (for Environmental, Social and Governance criteria) – in 1996.
After six subsequent works of serious nonfiction, I redirected my authorial energies in 2020 toward writing historical-fantasy novels set in early America. Patriot soldiers battle flying demons. Daniel Boone hunts fire-spitting salamanders. Shadowy mages ensorcell Washington politicians into committing grave errors. Get the picture?
Well, I thought I was writing fantasy. But as I watch events unfold in the nation’s capital, the idea that dark sorcerers prowl the halls of Congress no longer seems fanciful.
The U.S. House has passed a fiscal package that would extend or make permanent key elements of the 2017 tax bill, add on other tax breaks and hikes, and adjust federal expenditures on defense, entitlements and discretionary programs. Over the next decade, the House plan would reduce the growth in federal revenue by about $3.8 trillion and reduce the growth of federal spending by about $750 billion.
To put these figures in perspective, the Congressional Budget Office projects that under current law, publicly-held federal debt would rise from $30 trillion today to $50 trillion in 2034. If the House plan becomes law – and we experience no serious recession in the meantime — it would rise to $53
trillion by 2034. To put the figures into further perspective, this is madness!
The national debt is already roughly the size of America’s annual gross domestic product. Under a best-case scenario, pushing it to 150% of GDP and beyond over the next couple of decades will impose a massive financial burden on future taxpayers and consign generations of Americans to bleaker economic and social prospects. Under a worst-case scenario, buyers of federal treasuries will in the interim come to doubt they’ll be repaid and demand higher interest rates to compensate them for the higher risk. Steeper borrowing costs will crimp spending by governments, businesses, and households — triggering economic recession, political chaos, and even national-security risks.
I’m exercising no literary license here. Fiscal facts cannot simply be wished away, as so many politicians (and, yes, voters) seem desperate to do.
The federal budget is structurally and woefully out of whack. Since 2020, revenue has fluctuated between 16% and 19% of GDP. Net federal expenditure has fluctuated between 22% and 31% of GDP. Looking forward, gigantic deficits are the baseline projection. Neither Republican nor Democratic politicians offer a realistic plan for reducing those deficits to a manageable level (3% of GDP or less), much less to balance the federal budget at some point in even the very distant future.
No shining paladin or bespectacled wizard is coming to save us. And there’s no silver bullet with which to slay the deficit beast.
Raise taxes on the wealthy? That might edge federal revenue up a point or so of GDP. Eliminate obvious “waste, fraud and abuse”? Ditto. Not nearly enough.
On the spending side, I’m for pulling back in most areas. But it is an inescapable truth that the main drivers of future federal deficits are entitlements: Medicaid, Medicare, Social Security and, to a lesser extent, means-tested welfare programs. All require reform. Congress should restructure Medicaid’s reimbursement rates and require nonpoor beneficiaries to make reasonable copays for services. It should reduce Medicare and Social Security benefits for high-income retirees. And it should impose real and immediate work requirements on all non-disabled recipients of Medicaid, nutrition supplements, public housing and other public assistance.
On the revenue side, I’m for getting rid of special-interest tax breaks, cracking down on tax evasion, selling low-priority assets, and maximizing revenue from drilling, mining and logging on federal land.
Disagree with my priorities? Okay. I acknowledge there are other ways to close deficits, but there are no painless ways to do it. Politicians in Washington – and in Raleigh, where federal dollars finance more than a third of the state budget – will have to make some tough decisions. Their constituents, you and I, will have to let them.
John Hood is a John Locke Foundation board member. His books “Mountain Folk,” “Forest Folk” and “Water Folk” combine epic fantasy with American history (FolkloreCycle.com).
Life is messy. Here are some ways to clean it up
By Bryan Golden Contributor
Life is what happens while you are making other plans. I have devoted a lot of space in this column to planning and goal setting. Reality offers an endless barrage of diversions, detours, challenges and obstacles. This fact doesn't negate the benefit of preparation. It simply requires an understanding of the type of forces at work.
A sailor would be remiss if he didn't understand how to handle storms, currents, tides, sandbars, fog and darkness. Although the sailor has a clear destination in mind, the sea has its own characteristics that can't be avoided or overcome. Should a mariner deny its existence his time afloat is certainly limited.
Just as the seasoned mariner recognizes and comprehends the behavior of the ocean, you need to accept the existence of life’s surprises. Once you do this, you will enhance your ability to successfully navigate the sea of life.
What should you do when your day becomes messy? How do you weather storms and avoid being derailed by obstacles? How do you respond when your plans fall apart? What strategy is appropriate when you feel things are going from bad to worse?
A messy day is no more unusual than waves on the water. Just go with the flow. Don’t panic or despair. Problems will be resolved and pass. With time they will seem insignificant if they are remembered at all. Accept messy days as normal and a fact of nature. You can’t stop or prevent them but you can ride them out.
Imagine walking down a bowling lane while people were bowling. You had no choice; you needed to get from one end to the other. What would you do? If you were to panic and stand still, you would surely get hit by a bowling ball. To avoid injury, you would need to keep moving while constantly changing direction to avoid oncoming balls. Yet you would always have the other end of the lane in sight.
Employing this strategy, you would make it to the end of the lane unscathed. You begin each day at one end of the lane. The far end represents the end of the day. Some days there are no balls being thrown at you. Other days they are non-stop. Your life is no more than many days lined up in a row. If you get through each one, you get through life.
There are those days when everything feels like it’s going downhill fast. One problem is followed by another. You barely have time to catch your breath. So be it. It happens. The
challenge is to maintain your attitude in the face of this barrage. This isn’t easy. But if you don’t do it you risk becoming overwhelmed. Separate the issues. Deal with each one independently. Choose a course of action for each, take it and then move onto the next one. Don’t analyze things to death. Make a decision. If you don’t, someone or something will make it for you and it may not be one you are happy with. All the problems together are like a big box filled with bricks. Trying to move the box while it’s full is extremely difficult, if not impossible. Take one brick at a time and you can move any size box regardless of what it weighs when it’s loaded to capacity. These are just a few suggestions. Find the one that works for you and stick with it. You have to get through each day anyway, so you may as well be an active participant. If you threw your hands up in frustration, you throw away your rudder and make yourself vulnerable to drifting out of control. Life is messy. Develop techniques to make the best of things and do what it takes to get the most from each day.
Bryan is the author of "Dare to Live Without Limits." Contact Bryan at Bryan@columnist. com or visit www.DareToLiveWithoutLimits. com Copyright 2025 Bryan Golden
