The 09-12-2025 Edition of The Charlotte Weekly South Charlotte by Street Media

By Vi Lyles Contributor

As I re ect on the tragic murder of Iryna Zarutska my heart continues to go out to her family and our community as we try to make sense of this horrific and senseless loss.

Over the past several weeks as our community has worked to understand this, what we know is that this was a tragic failure by the courts and magistrates. Our police officers arrest people only to have them quickly released, which undermines our ability to protect our community and ensure safety. We need a bipartisan solution to address repeat o enders

CHARLOTTE – Grab your gown, ﬂuff your veil and get ready to catch the bouquet at My Breast Friend’s Wedding on Oct. 23.

“Slip into your best wedding attire and join us for a ladies-only celebration like no other as we celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness Month,” said Shawna Dye Culik, event chair of My Breast Friend’s Wedding and board vice chair for The Go Jen Go Foundation. “It is the perfect night for women to connect, make memories, and support an incredible cause.”

The event takes place from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Hyatt Centric, 3100 Apex Drive, Charlotte.

Attendees will be treated to wedding cake, hors d’oeuvres, champagne, wedding punch, a DJ, prizes, and wedding favors. Molly Grantham will emcee the festivities.

“Whether you are rocking your original wedding dress, a bridesmaid gown that has been hiding in your closet, or any fabulous wedding-inspired look, this is your chance to walk down

who do not face consequences for their actions and those who cannot get treatment for their mental illness and are allowed to be on the streets. We have partnered before on legislation like North Carolina’s pre-trial integrity act, and we stand ready to partner again at the local, state, and federal level. I want to assure the community that we are taking action, and we will continue to take action.

Last week CATS leadership presented to Charlotte City Council and the Metropolitan Transit Commission about the ongoing work to address safety and security on our public transit system. Over the past two years, we

CHARLOTTE

– The Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular will return to Ballantyne's Backyard, starting the Thanksgiving weekend and running from Nov. 28 to Dec. 30.

More than 90,000 visitors from across the region attended last year’s event.

e biggest new attraction of the season brings the joy of a holiday fair to Ballantyne’s Backyard.

Included with general admission, the Winter Wonderland Carnival features the Sooper Jet kiddie coaster for young thrill-seekers, the Bear Affair spinning ride and a rapid slide.

Returning attractions include:

• A half-mile walking trail

the ‘friendship aisle’ and raise a glass to good times, connection and making a di erence,” Dye Culik said.

Tickets cost $50 and include admission to the event and a raffle ticket.

Proceeds bene t e Go Jen Go Foundation, a nonpro t that provides nancial assistance to more than 105 families per month in the Greater

Ballantyne's Backyard to host walk-through light show

featuring 40% more light displays and dazzling new scenes.

• Th e glowing walk-through Ice Castle and Princess Carriage.

• Frosty’s Fun Land with real snow and the illuminated Elf Playground.

• Nightly appearances by Santa Claus through Dec. 23

• Life-sized snow globes and performances by ballerinas and live entertainers on select evenings

• The Holiday Village features local boutiques, food trucks and festive drinks.

Tickets start at $10. Visit ncholidaylights.com for ticket information.

Mayor addresses fatal light rail stabbing

have doubled the number of CATS security personnel, tripled the safety and security budget from $5.8 million to nearly $18 million, and are shifting from a corporate security model towards a stronger transit policing model. E ective immediately, CATS security personnel will be re-deployed for a stronger presence on Blue Line platforms and to increase fare enforcement. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department will also be increasing patrols at key areas across the transit system. ese changes will allow CATS to fully execute the transit system policing plan, including the Blue Line.

Over the next two to three weeks CATS will

be rolling out new safety operations including bike units and urban terrain vehicles. CATS is actively recruiting and will be adding nearly 30 additional security personnel over the next few months. CATS will also be bringing an agreement for council approval to council’s next business meeting on Sept. 22 which will expand the authority of CATS to provide security around the transit system.

Residents across our community and visitors to our region depend on public transit. We owe it to them to make sure our public transit system and our city are safe and secure.

Vi Lyles serves as mayor of Charlotte.

MY BREAST FRIEND’S WEDDING RETURNS OCT. 23

Charlotte area who are facing the nancial burden of a breast cancer diagnosis.

“We look forward to this event every year and are incredibly grateful to be its bene ciary,” said Susan Evren, executive director of Go Jen Go. “Everyone’s support helps us make a direct impact on our local breast cancer community.”

RSVP at mybreastfriendswedding.com.

school year, including School Performance and Academic Growth.

In the 2024-25 school year, CMS outperformed North Carolina in overall grade-level proficiency with significant increases in:

• Reading Grades 3-8 (+5.2%)

• Math Grades 3-8 (+4.6%)

Math III (+8.2%)

• 156 (89.1%) schools met or exceeded growth, with the highest number and percent in CMS history.

• 115 (65.7%) schools exceeded growth, highest number and percent in CMS history.

• Ranked 10th out of 115 public school districts in North Carolina for percent of schools meeting or exceeding growth, highest ranking in CMS history.

• 123 (70%) schools earned a school performance grade of A, B or C, an increase of 21 from 2023-24 and the largest single year increase in CMS history.

• 55 schools improved school letter grades; the largest single year increase in CMS history.

• 31 schools no longer have a state low-performing designation, largest single year decrease in number of schools with the low-performing designation in CMS history.

" ese results are a testament to the hard work and perseverance of our students, teachers and families," Superintendent Crystal Hill said. "We are not just improving numbers. We are expanding opportunities, raising expectations and proving what’s possible for every student in CMS."

Hill said these achievements align with the CMS Strategic Plan, which focuses on raising academic achievement, closing opportunity gaps and ensuring students graduate ready to be enrolled, enlisted or employed.

“While there is more work ahead, the district is committed to building on this momentum and ensuring that all students bene t from the progress being made,” Hill said.

CMS began its 2025-26 school year on Aug. 25.

Women can get a little more mileage out of their wedding dresses with a wedding-inspired fundraiser.

Photo courtesy of My Breast Friend’s Wedding

Local TV personality Molly Grantham will emcee the festivities. Photo courtesy of My Breast Friend’s Wedding

The Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular is now in its fourth year.

Photos courtesy of Drink Eat Relax Events, LLC

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NEWS BRIEFS

Bat tests positive for rabies

MATTHEWS – Matthews Animal Control recently removed a bat from the Jaywick Lane area and transported it for rabies testing. e bat tested positive for rabies.

One human exposure and one domestic pet exposure have been reported.

The Matthews Police Department urged people to contact the Mecklenburg County Health Department immediately at 704-6146512 or 704-589-3242 if they or pets came into contact with a bat in the area.

Police encouraged people to remain vigilant for the next 30 days for any animals in the area since symptoms may not show for 21 to 28 days in animals exposed to the rabies virus. Call animal control if you do see animals showing symptoms.

On the web: health.mecknc. gov/cdcontrol/Rabies-ZoonosisControl

Assist ME holds Wheels & Walker-thon

CHARLOTTE – Assist ME held its inaugural Wheels & Walker-thon on Sept. 6 at Park Road Park. e event combined tness, fun, and philanthropy to support independence for people needing mobility equipment. Organizers hoped to raise $30,000 to help the nonpro t provide free medical equipment to Charlotte-area residents facing mobility challenges. An equipment drive was held onsite.

Sponsors included Atrium Health – Carolinas Rehabilitation, Numotion Foundation, e Barclay at SouthPark, Sharon Presbyterian Church, Charlotte Chiropractic and Rehabilitation, Charlotte Laser Pain Center and Clearwater Auto Spa. Assist ME served over 1,200 people last year and is on track to support at least 1,800 in 2025.

Survival expert to speak at Carolina Theatre

CHARLOTTE – e Carolina eatre is about to get wild. Bear Grylls, the internationally renowned survival expert, television host, author and motivational

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Wild Wing Cafe sees opportunity to grow

CHARLOTTE – Wild Wing Cafe is preparing to turn the page on restructuring with a renewed focus on growth and guest experience.

Following approval of its reorganization plan by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Western District of North Carolina, the wings and sports bar concept says it is poised for a strong comeback.

e Charlotte-based company, owned by Axum Capital Partners through Aetius Companies, began the process in July 2023 as part of an e ort to restructure and stabilize the business to set the stage for long-term success. e need for the restructuring was necessitated by the challenges brought on by the pandemic.

Wild Wing Cafe plans to refresh its restaurants with updated interiors, enhanced menu o erings, and innovative technology to improve the guest experience. e 35-year-old brand is also evaluating opportunities for growth in existing and new markets.

Moore & Van Allen becoming an anchor tenant

CHARLOTTE – Riverside Investment & Development, with partners Wood eld Development and PGIM Real Estate, announcednancing and an anchor lease for 1111 South Tryon, the second Queensbridge Collective tower in Charlotte’s South End.

Charlotte-based Moore & Van Allen will relocate its headquarters in 2028, occupying nine oors for 700 employees.

e 43-story mixed-use tower will feature o ces, apartments, retail and amenities. Queensbridge will be the eighth tallest building in Charlotte.

Campaign offers solar energy beneﬁts

CHARLOTTE – Homeowners can still cut energy costs through the Solarize Charlotte-Mecklenburg campaign before the Oct. 31 enrollment deadline.

e campaign o ers bene ts geared to making renewable energy for homes, businesses and nonpro ts more a ordable locally.

Launched by Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, Davidson and Centralina Regional Council, the program o ers up to 20% group discounts, free custom evaluations, system-size savings and community support.

Duke Energy incentives include up to $9,000 for qualifying solar and battery systems plus a hybrid net metering plan through 2027.

More than 225 property owners have already signed up.

Learn more and enroll with no obligation at the campaign website.

speaker, will appear at the Carolina eatre at 6 p.m. Nov. 4. Tickets start at $50. Get them at eCarolina.com.

In a fireside chat, Grylls will share how he has faced challenges and what continues to drive him forward. Some of those challenges, often survivalist-based, include running through a forest re, eating snakes and wrestling alligators.

“We won’t be wrestling alligators inside the theatre,” said Jared Misner, the Carolina eatre’s communications director. “But Bear will help us all wrestle with life’s challenges and what it means to move past them and thrive. We’re lucky to have one of the world’s foremost experts on surviving challenges join us for this special evening.”

In addition to the Discovery Channel show “Man Vs. Wild,” Grylls has hosted shows on NBC and the Military Channel.

Nonproﬁt funds community health improvements

CHARLOTTE – e American Heart Association with support from Novant Health is providing community funding to improve heart health in Cape Fear, Charlotte and the Triad.

Applications are open through Sept. 19 at https://form.jotform. com/252186410987161.

Community applicants may request $2,500 to $10,000 to support heart-healthy policies and environments. Eligible groups include community-based organizations, churches, senior centers, health centers, housing authorities, colleges, universities and local governments.

“ ese subawards o er the American Heart Association an opportunity to continue the important work of creating longer healthier lives in our communities through strong relationships with local organizations across North Carolina,” said Allison Nelson, vice president of community impact.

Smash Cancer through pickleball tournament

CHARLOTTE – e American Cancer Society GenNow Network Charlotte is hosting its inaugural Smash Cancer: Pickleball Edition,

Bobby's Burgers by Bobby Flay introduces fall bites

CHARLOTTE – Bobby’s Burgers By Bobby Flay is celebrating fall with two seasonal additions: the Wild Mushroom Bacon Burger and the Pumpkin Spice Milkshake.

Available at all locations until Nov. 30, the burger features Certi ed Angus Beef grilled to medium or well-done with crispy bacon, White American cheese, sautéed cremini mushrooms and red wine BBQ sauce. Guests can swap chicken for beef.

e milkshake blends custard with pumpkin spice and is topped with whipped cream.

Learn more at bobbysburgers.com.

AVL USA begins production at new plant

CHARLOTTE – AVL USA Inc., a leader in power generation and storage enclosures, has opened its rst U.S. plant in Charlotte.

e 232,000-square-foot facility at 13006 Sam Neely Road produces genset enclosures that protect backup power systems for data centers.

“Our team is red up about creating much-needed quality products for a fast-growing industry and about growing their careers at AVL,” said Matthias Steck, general manager. AVL has lled 75 positions and continues hiring through Arrow Workforce Solutions.

e company is hiring speci c roles, including machine builders and electricians and more. Visit AVLcareers.com for career inquiries.

Charlotte Area Chamber events

CHARLOTTE – e Charlotte Area Chamber of Commerce hosts Mix, Mingle & Make Connections; Public Policy Meeting; and a ribbon cutting.

• Members network during Mix, Mingle & Make Connections from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 16 at Frankie's Fun Park, 16021 Bryton Corporate Center Drive, Huntersville. Register in advance.

• N.C. Sen. Woodson Bradley talks about her experiences as a lawmaker during the Public Policy Meeting from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Sept. 17 at Envision Charlotte, Innovation Barn, 932 Seigle Ave., Charlotte. Register in advance.

• Members celebrate the grand opening of Mackey Realty with a ribbon cutting from 11 a.m. to noon Sept. 18 at 1700 East Blvd., Charlotte. ey’ll cut the ribbon at 11:15 a.m. Register in advance.

Visit charlotteareachamber.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.

presented by OrthoCarolina.

The community-driven event combines fun, fitness and fundraising to ght back against cancer from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 11 at Clanton Park, 1520 Clanton Road.

Registration costs $75.

Participants will enjoy a doubles pickleball tournament, food trucks, family-friendly activities and the chance to make an impact on the lives of cancer patients and their families.

The ACS GenNow Network Charlotte Chapter consists of members with a shared commitment to engage the next generation of leaders in the ght against cancer.

Charlotte group to host NASA Space Apps Challenge

CHARLOTTE – Queen City Robotics Alliance will serve as the Charlotte host for the 2025 NASA Space Apps Challenge on Oct. 4 and 5 at the Sullenberger Aviation Museum.

e NASA International Space Apps Challenge is billed as the world’s largest global hackathon. is two-day event allows participants of all ages to use NASA's free and open data sources to address problems on Earth and in space.

“ is is an opportunity for students to use NASA to explore ideas,” said Kaiwen Cheng, of Queen City Robotics Alliance. “Space technology is a leading technology. It’s using space to inspire and impact our daily lives. ings like GPS and memory foam mattresses. We wouldn’t have those things today without NASA technology.”

Learn more about the event at https://www.spaceappsclt.org/.

Epilepsy Reach Foundation planning gala

CHARLOTTE – Epilepsy Reach Foundation is planning its Epilepsy Reach for Excellence Gala, a “purple carpet” evening with elegance, entertainment and empowerment.

The event takes place from 6 to 10 p.m. Oct. 17 at 658 Event Center, 3646 Central Ave. Get tickets at https://event.gives/ epilepsyreachgala2025.

Guests will experience live performances, a silent auction and

Latin American Chamber events

CHARLOTTE – e Latin American Chamber of Commerce hosts a market and night out at a baseball game.

• The chamber hosts vendors, music and food during Hispanic Heritage Month Market from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 14 at Spark Centro, 8801 E. W.T. Harris Blvd., Charlotte. Register in advance.

• Members let loose during a Night Out at a Charlotte Knights game from 6 to 10 p.m. Sept. 18 at 324 South Mint St., Charlotte. 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 Business After Hours.

• Members network during Business After Hours from 5 to 7 p.m. Sept. 25 at Carolina Beer Temple, 215 N. Ames St., Matthews. e event bene ts the Home Again Foundation. 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 networking breakfast.

• Nonprofit leaders convene during the Non-Pro t Networking Breakfast from 8:30 to 10 a.m. Sept. 18 at Atrium Health Union West, 1000 Healing Way, Matthews. 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 hosts Mugs & Matters.

• Lancaster Council Members Jose Luis and Stuart Graham are guests during Mugs & Matters from 4 to 6 p.m. Sept. 12 at Sweetwater Co ee and Tea, 9623 Red Stone Drive, Indian Land. Visit pinevillencchamber.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.

Union County Chamber events

MONROE – e Union County Chamber of Commerce hosts orientation and a ribbon cutting.

• Members celebrate the grand opening of Hotworx with a ribbon cutting from 11 to 11:30 a.m. Sept. 12 at 1002 Aspinal St., Waxhaw. Register in advance.

• The chamber explains the perks of membership during Get Plugged In from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Sept. 17 on Zoom. Register in advance. Visit unioncountycoc.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.

stories of courage from the epilepsy community, all while raising critical funds to support life-changing programs.

e Epilepsy Reach Foundation provides educational scholarships, mental health services, career support, and health equity programs.

Feels like fall in Uptown

Charlotte

CHARLOTTE – Several fun fall festivals and celebrations are planned for Uptown Charlotte this fall.

Here are a few of them:

• Shop the Yard – Find a popup shopping experience like you’ve never seen Sept. 27 and Oct. 25 at Victoria Yards, 209 E. 7th St.

• Plaza Beer Garden – Uptown brings Resident Culture draughts, Mimosa Grill bites and live music to the open-air plaza ursdays at 325 S. Tryon St.

• Game Kiosk Launch – The Romare Bearden Park kiosk debuts as a free community game lending hub stocked for easy, drop-in lawn and tabletop play, open during peak hours on Wednesdays and ursdays, beginning Oct. 1.

• Weekend Warmup Music Series

– An after-work live-music series energizes Uptown on ursday evenings in October (Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30) at Romare Bearden Park.

• 4th Ward Movies in the Park

– Watch family-friendly Halloween classics at dusk Saturdays in October (Oct. 4, 11, 18 and 25) at 4th Ward Park.

On the web: uptowncharlotte.com

Adams introduces anti-hunger legislation

WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswomen Alma S. Adams (NC12) and others introduced the Closing the Meal Gap Act of 2025 aimed at addressing food insecurity by increasing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program bene ts and allocating more funds to those with large medical and housing expenses.

e Closing the Meal Gap Act of 2025 changes the formula used to calculate SNAP bene ts from the rifty Food Plan to the Low Cost Food Plan, increasing the average SNAP bene t amount.

“No one in America should have to worry about where their next meal is coming from, but SNAP benefits are simply not enough to put food on the table,” Adams said. “As in ation and cost of living continue to rise, we should focus on strengthening SNAP, not making deep, reckless cuts that only worsen hunger in the United States.”

Truliant Foundation gives scholarships to 22 students WINSTON-SALEM – The Truliant Foundation announced college scholarship winners for fall 2025.

All are rst-time college students; high school seniors who will be enrolled in an accredited college, community college or university; and members of Truliant Federal Credit Union.

• Fred J. Sarda winners ($2,000): Owen Bandy, Christopher Joshua Corona-Plancarte, Victoria Cox, Addison Durst, Reese Elliott, Landry Gray, Davis Hamby, Jeremiah Harper, Charlie Haynes, Annabel Hopkins, Taj Johnson, Zyire Murphy, Ryan Pack, Laken Faith Sexton, Niketh Vengala, Trevor Viera, Smriti Verma, Nyssa West and Cassie Woodall.

• Clyde Padgett winner ($2,500): Luke Barron.

• Carolinas Credit Union Foundation winners ($2,000): Josie Crum and Ethan Scharf.

Project to temporarily close rail trail

CHARLOTTE – Beginning Sept. 8, a portion of the Rail Trail near New Bern Station will be temporarily closed due to a drainage replacement project. Only one side of the rail trail will be closed at a time, allowing for an accessible detour. e closure is between Poindexter Drive and New Bern Street, behind the MAA Reserve Apartment Community (2720 South Blvd.).

This portion of the Rail Trail is expected to be closed for four months. Blue Line operations should not be impacted.

Call CATS customer service at 704-336-7433 for questions or concerns.

Sept. 12

Family Storytime

Families engage in literacy activities during Family Storytime at South County Regional Library. Get a ticket at the children’s desk 15 minutes before the program. cmlibrary.org/ locations/south-county-regional

10-10:30 a.m.; 5801 Rea Road, Charlotte

Beats ‘n Bites

Blue Monday performs 1980s hits during the Beats ‘n Bites series at Stumptown Park. Food trucks and craft beer will be available. Bring chairs and blankets but no pets. Music starts at 6 p.m. e Town of Matthews presents the series from March to May as well as September and October. matthewsnc.gov/specialevents

5-9 p.m.; 120 S Trade St, Matthews

Live at the Amp

Beginnings performs hits from Chicago during Live at the Amp at e Tamp Ballantyne. Admission costs $15. Ages 5 and younger get in free. thebowlnc.com

5:30-8:15 p.m.; 11115 Upper Ave., Charlotte

Stallings Fest

e Town of Stallings celebrates its 50th anniversary during Stallings 50 Fest. e rst day of the three-day festival includes a kick-o concert and food trucks at Stallings Municipal Park. stallingsnc.org

6-8 p.m.; 340 Stallings Road, Stallings

Sept. 13

Family Storytime

Families engage in stories and songs during Family Storytime at SouthPark Regional Library. Get a ticket at the children’s desk before the program starts. cmlibrary.org/locations/ SouthPark-Regional

10:15-10:45 a.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte

Stallings Fest

e Town of Stallings celebrates its 50th anniversary during Stallings 50 Fest. e second day of the three-day festival includes live stage shows, food trucks, a children’s entrepreneur market, arts and crafts at Stallings Municipal Park. stallingsnc.org

11 a.m.-4 p.m.; 340 Stallings Road, Stallings Paws to Read

Children ages 5-11 read to a volunteer therapy dog during Paws to Read at South County Regional Library. Kids read for 15 minutes. Call 704-416-6600 option 2 to register for a 15-minute session. cmlibrary.org/locations/ SouthPark-Regional

11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte

Paws to Read

2-3 p.m.; 5801 Rea Road, Charlotte

Book Signing

Taylor Hartley signs copies of her book, "Song of the Hell Witch," at Park Road Books. parkroadbooks.com

2-3 p.m.; 4139 Park Road, Charlotte

Sept. 14

Stallings Fest

e Town of Stallings celebrates its 50th anniversary during Stallings 50 Fest Car Show

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

at Stallings Elementary School. stallingsnc.org

10 a.m.-2 p.m.; 3501 Stallings Road, Stallings

Book Signing

Irene Honeycutt signs copies of her book, "Mountains of the Moon," at Park Road Books. parkroadbooks.com

2-3:30 p.m.; 4139 Park Road, Charlotte

Book Signing

Bruce McIntyre talks about his new book, "Taking the Lang Way Home" at Park Road Books. parkroadbooks.com

6:30-7:30 p.m.; 4139 Park Road, Charlotte

Sept. 15

Toddler Storytime

Toddlers build literacy skills through music and stories during Toddler Storytime at SouthPark Regional Library. Get a ticket at the children’s desk before the program. cmlibrary.org/ locations/SouthPark-Regional

9:30-10 a.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte

Family Storytime

10-10:30 or 11-11:30 a.m.; 5801 Rea Road, Charlotte

Family Storytime

Families engage in literacy activities during Family Storytime at Pineville Library. Get a ticket at the front desk 15 minutes before the program starts. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Pineville

10-10:30 a.m.; 505 Main St., Pineville

Family Storytime

10:15-10:45 a.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte

Baby Storytime

Children ages 0-2 listen to stories and songs during Baby Storytime at SouthPark Regional Library. Check in at the children’s desk when you arrive. cmlibrary.org/locations/ SouthPark-Regional

11-11:30 a.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte

Conversation Club

Adults practice their English skills during the Beginner Englnish Conversation Club at South County Regional Library. cmlibrary.org/ locations/south-county-regional

1-2:30 p.m.; 5801 Rea Road, Charlotte

Sept. 16

Baby Storytime

Children ages 0-2 listen to stories and songs during Baby Storytime at Pineville Library. Get a ticket at the front desk 15 minutes before the program starts. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Pineville

9:30-10 a.m.; 505 Main St., Pineville

Toddler Storytime

9:30-10 a.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte

Family Storytime

10:15-10:45 or 11-11:30 a.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte

Global Cafe

Adults practice speaking English in conversation during Global Cafe at SouthPark Regional Library. cmlibrary.org/locations/ SouthPark-Regional 1-2 p.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte

Sept. 17

Toddler Storytime

Outdoor Storytime

South County Regional Library holds a Family Storytime at Pineville Lake Park. Bring a blanket or chair. cmlibrary.org/locations/ south-county-regional 9:30-10 a.m.; 909 Lakeview Drive, Pineville

Toddler Storytime

Children ages 2-3 build literacy skills through stories and songs during Toddler Storytime at Pineville Library. Get a ticket at the front desk 15 minutes before the program starts. cmlibrary.org/locations/Pineville 10-10:30 a.m.; 505 Main St., Pineville

Family Storytime

Conversation Club

Adults practice speaking Portuguese during Portuguese Conversation Club at South County Regional Library. cmlibrary.org/locations/ south-county-regional 10-11 a.m.; 5801 Rea Road, Charlotte

Family Storytime

Baby Storytime

Children ages 0-2 engage in stories and songs during Baby Storytime at South County Regional Library. Registration at the children’s desk starts 15 minutes before the program. cmlibrary.org/locations/south-county-regional 11-11:30 a.m.; 5801 Rea Road, Charlotte

Sept. 18

Family Storytime

Families engage in literacy activities during Family Storytime at Pineville Library. Get a ticket at the front desk 15 minutes before the program starts. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Pineville 9:30-10 a.m.; 505 Main St., Pineville

Toddler Storytime

Family Storytime

Baby Storytime

Children ages 0-2 listen to stories and songs during Baby Storytime at SouthPark Regional Library. Check in at the children’s desk when you arrive. cmlibrary.org/locations/ SouthPark-Regional 11-11:30 a.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte

Toddler Storytime

Children ages 2-3 listen to stories and songs during Toddler Storytime at South County Regional Library. Pick up a ticket at the children’s desk 15 minutes before the event starts. cmlibrary.org/locations/south-county-regional 11-11:30 a.m.; 5801 Rea Road, Charlotte

Conversation Club

Adults practice their Spanish skills during the Intermediate/Advanced Spanish Conversation Club at South County Regional Library. cmlibrary.org/locations/south-county-regional 11 a.m.-noon or noon-1 p.m.; 5801 Rea Road, Charlotte

Conversation Club

Adults practice English-speaking skills during English Conversation Club at Pineville Library. Register in advance at cmlibrary.org/locations/ Pineville.

11 a.m.-12:15 p.m.; 505 Main St., Pineville

Paws to Read

Children ages 5-11 read to a volunteer therapy dog during Paws to Read at SouthPark Regional Library. Kids read for 15 minutes. Call 704-416-6600 option 2 to register for a 15-minute session. cmlibrary.org/locations/ SouthPark-Regional

5-6 p.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte Paws to Read

SouthPark After 5 Coconut Groove Band headlines the SouthPark After 5 series at Symphony Park. e Sept. 18 event will include a special performance by North Carolina Brazilian Arts Project as part of the Charlotte International Arts Festival. 5-9 p.m.; 4400 Sharon Park, Charlotte

VIA Health Partners expands home-based primary care

CHARLOTTE – VIA Health Partners has expanded its range of services by welcoming Equity Health, a Denver, N.C.–based provider of home-based primary care and wellness services, into its organization.

e partnership strengthens VIA’s ability to deliver personalized, coordinated care, especially for patients living with serious illnesses who bene t from being treated at home.

Equity Health is recognized for providing high-quality medical care where patients live, reducing the stress of travel, removing barriers to treatment and ensuring continuity of care. By integrating its team and expertise into VIA Health Partners, patients will have access to a more connected health experience that includes hospice, palliative, supportive and now primary care services.

“Equity Health’s focus on patient-first,

in-home care fits hand-in-glove with our mission,” VIA Health Partners President & CEO Peter Brunnick said. “Together, we can o er more services, more expertise and an even stronger foundation of support for the people we serve.” Equity Health President & Founder, Michelle Schmerge said joining VIA Health Partners was a natural next step for the company. “Our patients will keep the trusted relationships they’ve built while gaining access to more resources, more services and a care team that works together every step of the way,” Schmerge said. e integration is e ective immediately. Patients will continue with their current providers while gaining expanded services and coordinated support.

When you visit participating Epcon communities during our Fall Tour of Homes event, you’ll experience luxury ranch homes designed for single-level living and private, garden courtyards that are perfect for enjoying the crisp fall air.

This special event spans communities across the Charlotte area, giving you the chance to explore different neighborhoods, preview resort-style amenities and discover the Epcon lifestyle in the setting that suits you best.

Plus, a low-maintenance Epcon lifestyle means raking, mowing and weeding are taken care of for you—leaving you more time to enjoy the things that truly matter. Come see for yourself what it’s like to live well every day. You’ve earned this.

Fresh, Flavorful Ways to Win Your Tailgate Gathering

Outrage rises in Charlotte rail murder

By Alan Wooten Contributor

( e Center Square) – Chilling video of the Aug. 22 stabbing death of Iryna Zarutska on a Charlotte light rail has drawn increased awareness of the incident.

Social media audiences are wondering about the lack of national mainstream media coverage. President Donald Trump not only vowed to crack down on crime but sought to take action including through use of National Guard troops in certain cities.

Zarutska, 22, boarded the Lynx Blue Line about 10 p.m. on Camdem Road near the South End crossing of East Boulevard and West Boulevard, according to the Charlotte Area Transit System video. She took one of two empty seats in front of Decarlos Brown Jr. and appears to be on her cellphone.

Video does not appear to show any interaction between them until he stands up and attacks from behind about four minutes later.

“ e video of the heartbreaking attack that took Iryna Zarutska’s life is now public,” said Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles in a statement released Sept. 6. “ is was a senseless and tragic loss. My prayers remain with her loved ones

as they continue to grieve through an unimaginable time.”

She assured commitment to Charlotte, nation’s 14th largest city with population of about 925,000, remaining “a place where everyone feels safe.”

Trump, speaking Sept. 8 to reporters, was mistaken in when Zarutska was killed. His response was unmistakable.

“ ere are evil people, and we have to confront that,” he said. “I just give my love and hope to the family of the young woman who was stabbed this morning or last night in Charlotte by a mad man.

“She was just sitting there. ere are evil people. We have to be able to handle that. If we don’t handle that, we don’t have a country.”

Brown, 34 and reportedly homeless, is charged with rst-degree murder. His lawyer led a motion to evaluate competency. Brown has previously had 14 cases in Mecklenburg County, ranging from assault and making threats to armed robbery and felony larceny, and he’s served a ve-year sentence.

Zarutska, 23, was pronounced dead at the scene from multiple stab wounds. A GoFundMe page for expenses to help her uncle

MOORE INTRODUCES BILL TO END CASHLESS BAIL

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) co-led the Keep Violent Criminals Off Our Streets Act, introduced by Chairwoman Elise Stefanik (NY-21).

This action follows the recent murder of Iryna Zaruska by Decarlos Brown, who had been freed on a promise to appear.

“Iryna Zaruska should still be alive. Her blood is on the hands of every single person who made it possible for this monster to walk free,” Moore said. “That’s why I’m co-leading the Keep Violent Criminals Off Our Streets Act to cut off federal funds to any state or city that refuses to detain violent offenders. If leaders willingly refuse to do their job to lock up dangerous criminals, they shouldn’t get a dime of federal support.”

Specifically, the Keep Violent Criminals Off Our Streets Act will prevent any state or local government from receiving federal funds if they have a policy that prohibits the use of cash bail for all offenders or fail to implement pretrial detention practices for all violent offenders, including juveniles.

and his wife said she had recently arrived in the United States from Ukraine, “seeking safety from the war and hoping for a new beginning.”

GoFundMe on Sept. 8 removed a fundraiser for the legal defense fund of Brown. e page said scal support would help “to stop the injustice against Decarlos Brown Jr.”

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NOTICE

To Defendant: Fysel Marwan Elhulu

Take notice that a pleading seeking relief against you has been filed in the above-entitled action. The nature of the relief being sought is as follows: Plaintiff seeks judgment against you for breach of contract and breach of continuing guarantees, together with recovery of attorney’s fees, costs, and such other relief as the Court deems just and proper.

You are required to make defense to such pleading not later than forty (40) days after the date of the first publication of this notice, exclusive of such date, and upon your failure to do so, the party seeking service against you will apply to the court for the relief sought.

This the 12th day of September, 2025.

GoFundMe, in a statement, said terms of service prohibit fundraisers toward legal defenses of those “formally charged with an alleged violent crime.” e engagement site says 30 million people sent or received help from GoFundMe in 2023, with donation frequency averaging two per second.

Members of Congress call for removal of judge following murder

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman

Tim Moore (NC-14) is leading a letter signed by all 10 of the North Carolina House Republicans on Sept. 9 demanding the removal of unelected Magistrate Judge Teresa Stokes, who released a repeat offender who went on to murder a Ukrainian woman on the Charlotte light rail.

e letter is addressed to Chief District Court Judge Roy Wiggins, who has the authority to initiate formal removal proceedings.

“North Carolina’s justice system failed Iryna Zarutska. She came to Charlotte looking for safety and a better life, but instead, she was brutally murdered by a repeat o ender who never should’ve been let back on the streets,” said Congressman Moore. “Judge Stokes had the chance to protect the public and chose not to. It’s clear that she’s un t to hold this consequential position and should be removed from the bench immediately.”

In the letter, the lawmakers state, “By releasing a repeat violent o ender on nothing more than his written promise to appear, Magistrate Stokes displayed a willful failure to perform the duties of her o ce and engaged in conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice, as set forth in N.C.G.S. § 7A-173(a).”

e lawmakers also request that other cases be reviewed, saying, “We further request that the Court conduct a thorough review of her prior bond determinations to assess the full extent of misconduct.”

In North Carolina, magistrate judges are

appointed o cials who handle critical early-stage decisions in criminal cases, including setting bond and release conditions. Unlike elected judges, magistrates are appointed and may not be required to have a law degree. e letter was also signed by Reps. Gregory F. Murphy, M.D. (NC-3), Virginia Foxx (NC-5), Addison P. McDowell (NC-6), David Rouzer (NC-7), Mark Harris (NC8), Richard Hudson (NC-9), Pat Harrigan (NC-10), Chuck Edwards (NC-11) and Brad Knott (NC-13).

“What happened on the light rail in Charlotte is a tragedy that never should have happened. Teresa Stokes has failed the people and must be removed. She’s proven she can’t do the job and has lost the trust of the public,” McDowell said. “Democrat-run cities across America are ignoring public safety while letting criminals walk free to terrorize our communities. It’s past time to put law-abiding citizens rst, and restore law and order.”

Harris added, “Why would a judge knowingly let a repeat criminal with serious mental issues out on our streets? Pro-crime judges must be held responsible for their failure to carry out the most basic, commonsense duties. We must ensure there are no future Iryna Zarutskas.”

Rouzer said, “Magistrate Stokes’ rulings highlight exactly why liberal soft-on-crime policies are failing our communities locally and nationwide. When lenient laws meet lenient judges, public safety takes a back seat. is tragic loss of a life was absolutely preventable.”

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The 09-12-2025 Edition of The Charlotte Weekly South Charlotte

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Members of Congress call for removal of judge following murder

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