The 10-10-2025 Edition of The Charlotte Weekly Matthews-Mint Hill
By Alan Wooten Contributor
(The Center Square) – Safety concerns centered on a 55% reduction in armed security staff, 211% increase in contract value, and ties to diversity, equity and inclusion are in a preliminary audit of the Charlotte Area Transit System released Sept. 30. Dave Boliek, rst-term Republican state auditor, pledged the probe in response to the Aug. 22 stabbing death of Iryna Zarutska aboard a light rail train. His sta investigated contracts for CATS from 2018 through September. Armed security personnel for CATS were
between 68 and 88 in a 2018 contract with G4S Secure Solutions. is month’s detail was 39. PSS has the contract today. e pact was for $5.9 million in 2022 and is $18.4 million this year.
Private security rms for the transportation system, the report says, are in uenced by the Charlotte Business Inclusion program. During a meeting of its advisory committee in April, the report said the panel was advised to hear the “Republican argument” supporting proposed legislation to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives in state and local government in order to “be prepared to counter it.”
MINT HILL
– Jimmy Adams, a member of Troop 65 at Philadelphia Presbyterian Church, earned the Distinguished Conservation Service Award after completing two large-scale projects in the Charlotte region.
Adams earned one of Scouting’s highest honors by planning and executing projects focused on recycling and safe battery disposal. As Adams worked on these projects for three years, he earned the rank of Eagle Scout.
rough his recycling project, Adams collected more than 5,900 pounds of
MINT HILL
– Alisha DeBerry, founder and education director of Platinum Institute of Real Estate, has been named the 2025 Educator of the Year by the North Carolina Real Estate Educators Association.
is honor recognizes DeBerry’s contributions to real estate education, her teaching methods and her leadership in elevating professional standards across the state.
DeBerry also serves as managing broker of Platinum Realty. She has built her companies on the principles of excellence in education, community impact and integrity within real estate practice.
rough Platinum Institute of Real Estate, she provides prelicensing, postlicensing and continuing education
materials over three years. His e orts ensured hundreds of pounds of aluminum and thousands of pounds of plastic were kept out of land lls. ese materials came from friends, family, neighbors, troop members and three local churches.
Adams even went on side quests, collecting 1,647 pounds of synthetic ags around Mint Hill and Belk Scout Camp. He turned those in at Condor Flag in Charlotte.
Another side project involved cleaning and selling 688 pounds of plastic buckets from Harris Teeter and
courses designed to help aspiring and seasoned brokers achieve success.
“Education is the foundation of professionalism in real estate,” DeBerry said. “ is award represents the work of everyone who believes that raising the bar in education transforms the quality of service that clients receive and the strength of our communities.”
With her new o ce in Mint Hill, DeBerry continues to expand access to high-quality real estate training throughout the Charlotte region and beyond. Her school is committed to small class sizes, real-world application and state-of-the-art technology.
DeBerry also serves as a member of the Monroe Planning Board, a member of the NC REALTORS Board of Directors and vice chair of the NC REALTORS Professional Standards Committee.
SCOUT COLLECTS 2-PLUS TONS OF RECYCLABLES
Chick- l-A to homeowners and businesses in the community.
His second project involved diverting more than 6,700 pounds of alkaline, lead-acid and lithium batteries from land lls.
Adams shared his results Aug. 14 at the Mint Hill Board of Commissioners meeting, where he received a standing ovation. During the meeting, he announced that the $1,500 raised through the sale of buckets and recycling would be donated to the Fire ghters’ Burned Children’s Fund.
Realtor recognized for impact on education
Audit: Transit down 55% in armed security
on all 48 train cars at once.
House Bill 171, also known as Equality in State Agencies/Prohibition on DEI, was vetoed in the summer by rst-term Democratic Gov. Josh Stein. It remains eligible for veto override, a process that would have to start in the House of Representatives where no Democrats were in favor at the 60-48 passage.
Charlotte’s city compliance o cer in 2022, the report says, wrote in an email about the security contractor that the “solicitation is only open to CBI security rms, it is not open to other rms regardless if they have other certications by other parties.”
e contract today allows up to 219 personnel. at means 82.1% of the available jobs are vacant in an agreement allowing armed guards
“ e safety of the citizens of Charlotte needs to be rst and foremost when security decisions are being made,” Boliek said, noting a nal report is forthcoming. “Our report shows there has been a clear shift away from armed security in the CATS’s private security contracts.
“Further, limiting any part of a contract providing citizens with security to only rms that meet a DEI checkbox raises questions as to whether politics has taken priority over public safety. As we continue our investigation, we will be examining the decisions that went into designing, soliciting and approving these security contracts.”
Seaboard Brewing among big winners in NC Brewers Cup
CHARLOTTE – The North Carolina Craft Brewers Guild recently announced the results of the 2025 NC Brewers Cup competition, and four beers from Seaboard Brewing won awards.
Seaboard’s award-winning brews include:
• Oktoberfest won gold for category 27 North American-Style Amber & Dark Lager.
• Zuganator won gold for category 22 German-Style Bock.
• Juice Train won bronze for category 10 Juicy/Hazy Pale Ale.
• Astrotrain v.6 won honorable mention for category 11 Juicy or Hazy IPA.
e competition attracted a record 935 entries from 123 independent craft breweries.
e entries were judged simultaneously at Raleigh Brewing Company in Raleigh and White Labs in Asheville over the weekend of Aug. 23 and 24. Certi ed judges from across the Southeast assessed the beers based on the 2025 GABF Beer Style Guidelines.
irteen brewers from Charlotte won awards. Americana Beer Company in Monroe also earned an award. eir awards are as follows:
• Americana Beer Company's New Slang Raspberry Saison won bronze for category 17 Saison.
• Divine Barrel Brewing's Largesse won silver for category 14 European Sour Ale.
• Divine Barrel Brewing's Songs To Fill The Air won honorable mention for category 17 Saison.
• Divine Barrel Brewing's Time Is Only Part Of The Equation won gold for category 33 Wood and Barrel-Aged Beer.
• Gilde Brewery's Broyhan's Bock won gold for category 15 European Wheat (and Related) Beer.
• HopFly Brewing Company's Beach Beer won gold for category 07 Session IPA.
• Lenny Boy Brewing Co.'s Raspberry Kaleidoscope won gold for category 32 Brett, Mixed Culture & Wild Ales.
• Lenny Boy Brewing Co.'s Uno Mas won gold for category 25 North American-Style Lager.
• Lower Left Brewing Company's Heat Seeking Pickle won gold for category 31 Field & Spiced Beers.
• Lower Left Brewing Company's Ultimo Hombre won honorable mention for category 29 Fruit Beer.
• NoDa Brewing Co.'s Big SLURP won bronze for category 29 Fruit Beer.
• Petty Thieves Brewing Co.'s All is not lost won silver for category 17 Saison.
• Petty Thieves Brewing Co.'s Mindweaver won bronze for category 09 American-Style IPA.
• Pilot Brewing Company's Hazy Skies Hefeweizen won bronze for category 15 European Wheat (and Related) Beer.
• Resident Culture Brewing's BBA Twice as Lonely with Macadamia & Vanilla won silver for 33 Wood and Barrel-Aged Beer.
• Resident Culture Brewing's Festbier won gold for category 20 Amber & Other Pale European Lager.
• Town Brewing Company's Imperial Stout won bronze for category 05 Stouts.
• Town Brewing Company's Spratt's Lager won honorable mention for category 36 NC Home-Grown.
• Triple C Brewing Company's Schwarzbier won gold for category 21 Dark European Lager.
• Trolley Barn Fermentory's Flashbacks won honorable mention for category 34 Specialty Beer.
• Trolley Barn Fermentory’s Iron Horse won silver for category 01 British Pale & Bitter Ale.
• Vaulted Oak Brewing's Rules of Acquisition won bronze for category 12 American-Style Sour Ale.
Jimmy Adams not only earned a Distinguished Conservation Service Award but also an Eagle Scout rank through his service to the community. Photos courtesy of Emily Adams
Jimmy Adams cleaned and sold buckets from businesses to help fund his recycling efforts. He donated proceeds to charity.
More than 900 hours of labor from youth and adult volunteers went into both recycling projects.
Alisha DeBerry serves as the education director of Platinum Institute of Real Estate and the managing broker of Platinum Realty. Photo courtesy of Alisha DeBerry
NEWS BRIEFS
The Bowl to host ice skating rink
CHARLOTTE – The Bowl at Ballantyne will transform into a winter wonderland this holiday season with its very first outdoor ice-skating rink.
Lace up your skates, grab a cup of cocoa and make memories under the twinkling lights with family and friends.
Ice Skating at Th e Bowl will be open 4 to 9 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, 4 to 10 p.m. Fridays, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturdays and noon to 9 p.m. Sundays, Nov. 22 to Jan. 4, at The Amp Ballantyne, 11115 Upper Avenue, Charlotte.
Special holiday hours will be observed Thanksgiving Break (noon to 10 p.m. Nov. 26 to 28), Holiday Break (noon to 10 p.m. Dec. 21 to 23 and Dec. 25 to Jan. 2), Christmas Eve (noon to 5 p.m. Dec. 24) and Christmas Day (noon to 10 p.m. Dec. 25).
Tickets cost $20 for adults ($18 if you bring skates) and $12 for children ages 5 and younger. Prices include skate rentals. Discounts are available when purchased in person for military and rst responders with valid ID.
On the web: thebowlnc. com/events/the-bowl-iceskating-at-the-bowl
Monroe leader to guide state policy
MONROE – Assistant City Manager Lisa Hollowell has been appointed to the North Carolina League of Municipalities Legislative Policy Committee. is committee shapes the league’s municipal advocacy goals, which guide statewide legislative priorities.
Hollowell serves as assistant city manager for internal operations, overseeing finance, property management, information technology, communications and the Charlotte-Monroe Executive Airport.
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Hollowell will collaborate with municipal leaders from across North Carolina to review policy proposals, identify shared priorities, and help ensure cities and towns have a strong, uni ed voice on issues.
“Service on this committee is an important opportunity to represent Monroe while contributing to statewide policy discussions,” Hollowell said. “I look forward to working with colleagues across the state to advance priorities that benefit not only our city, but all North Carolina municipalities.”
CMS names Principal of the Year
CHARLOTTE – Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools surprised LaTresha Wilson on Oct. 3 with news that she won 2026 Principal of the Year.
Wilson, who leads Tuckaseegee Elementary School, said good principals must love people, have passion for the work, inspire when times get hard and motivate to push through things that don’t look possible.
“When (staff and students) become confident, they become inspired, and that’s where I’m able to push them beyond limits that they knew were possible,” she said. “ at is what brings me joy.”
CMS considered 11 nalists, including: Marc Angerer, South Mecklenburg High; Christy McCauley, Hawk Ridge Elementary; Frederick Mohrien, Mint Hill Elementary; and Toni Perry, Albemarle Road Middle.
Finalists picked for 2026 student advisor CHARLOTTE – Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools has named 11 juniors asnalists to become the 2026 student advisor to the school board. About 140 students applied for the position.
The student advisor is a non-voting member of the board that may advocate for students, offer opinions and ideas, and provide student perspective for board decisions. e advisor serves from January through December.
They’ll campaign from Oct. 1 to Nov. 4. High school students can cast a vote from Oct. 16 to Nov. 4. The winner will be announced Nov. 5.
Students offer support to those with eating disorders
MONROE – Seventeen-year-old South Piedmont students Pari Patel and Sophie Vasic founded LoveEverybody, a nonpro t dedicated to supporting individuals and families a ected by eating disorders.
“We started LoveEverybody because of our own experiences with eating disorders and the impact we saw all around us, among friends, classmates and even people online,” Patel said.
e organization provides resources, works to reduce stigma and plans to expand on campus with anonymous tip boxes and peer support groups.
“Recovery requires support,” Vasic said. “ rough LoveEverybody we hope to provide that critical help.”
Follow LoveEverybody on Instagram.
Counselors are available to South Piedmont students for con dential support and can connect students to community resources. Reach them at counselors@spcc.edu.
Lions Services hosts community events
CHARLOTTE – Lions Services, a 90-year-old nonprofit that works with the blind and visually impaired population, will celebrate Blind Awareness Month in October with a few major events.
• Oct. 10, 6 p.m., Tap Tap
C Beer Release Party – A special partnership between Triple C and Lions Services celebrates White Cane Awareness Day and the vital role the white cane plays in safety and independence.
• Oct. 15, 5:30 p.m., Blind AF Community Film Screening – Experience the
Szechuan Mansion Hotpot
finds spot in Arboretum
CHARLOTTE – Szechuan Mansion Hotpot brings Sichuan cuisine to south Charlotte, inviting guests to experience one of China’s most celebrated dining traditions at its new location at e Arboretum.
With locations in Cary and Durham, Szechuan Mansion has earned a following for its bold, avorful broths, premium ingredients and communal hotpot dining style. e Arboretum location continues that tradition, o ering Charlotte residents the chance to enjoy customizable hotpot meals in a modern setting.
All three Szechuan Mansion Hotpot restaurants will mark the opening with special promotions. Guests can enjoy 20% o from Oct. 6 to 13, followed by 10% o from Oct. 13 to 20 at the Charlotte, Cary and Durham locations.
e restaurant o cially opens to the public Oct. 6 with lunch and dinner service available daily.
CEENTA welcomes three physicians
CHARLOTTE – Charlotte Eye
journey of blind Army Veteran Shawn Cheshire. Following the lm, join a panel of veterans and civilians living with vision loss.
Register for these events at lionsservices.org.
Tirrell promotes book about one-horned goat
MONROE – Author Jennifer E. Tirrell read and signed copies of her children’s picture book, “Little Sprout Says Yes!” on Sept. 27 at The Book Lady.
The book follows Little Sprout, a spunky runt goat with one horn who lives in Monroe.
Tirrell was orphaned by the age of 3 and kinship-adopted. She uses her personal story to connect deeply with others. With boldness and vulnerability, she invites you to merge your roots, purpose and blessings to live all-in.
Her poignant split-time novel, “Jane’s Secret,” releases June 2, 2026.
She is a contributing writer to Focus on the Family, Arise Daily Devotions, Guideposts and more.
On the web: writingwithjet.com
Bethlehem UMC organizing Annual Bazaar
WAXHAW – e United Women in Faith at Bethlehem United Methodist Church will raise money for local and national missions through its Annual Bazaar. e sale takes place from 7:30 to 11 a.m. Oct. 25 in the Family Life Center, located at 5300 Nesbit Road. Ham and sausage biscuits will be available at 7:30 a.m.
Bazaar-goers can expect to find handmade crafts, Christmas decorations, frozen casseroles, home-baked cakes, cookies, pies, candy, breads, canned goods and handmade quilts.
e Rev. Hugo Villagrana serves as minister at Bethlehem United Methodist Church. Cindy Carter serves as president of United Women in Faith.
Romare Bearden Park hosting Weekend Warmup
CHARLOTTE – Uptown
Ear Nose & roat Associates has added three new ear, nose and throat physicians, including two who will see patients in SouthPark.
• Young Jae Byun is a comprehensive adult and pediatric otolaryngologist with expertise in sinus surgery, salivary gland disorders, tonsil and adenoid surgery, and thyroid surgery. He’ll see patients in Lancaster and Rock Hill.
• As an otolaryngologist with subspecialty training in laryngology, Jeanne Hatcher’s clinical interests include voice, upper airway, and swallowing disorders, airway reconstruction, awake laryngeal procedures, professional voice care and gender-a rming voice care. She’ll see patients in SouthPark and Fort Mill.
• Sriram Navuluri brings fellowship training in rhinology and skull base surgery to the Charlotte area. He’ll provide his services in SouthPark.
Tri Pointe Homes opens community CHARLOTTE – Tri Pointe
Charlotte recently kicked o Weekend Warmup, a free after-work music series presented by Ascent Uptown. Romare Bearden Park will come alive from 3 to 8:30 p.m. ursdays with live music and community energy. e Weekend Warmup series features a farmers’ market (3 p.m.) and music (5:30 p.m.).
Upcoming dates include:
• Oct. 9: Blue Monday (MTV generation)
• Oct. 16: CJ Baker Band (Dance variety)
• Oct. 23: Groove Machine (1970s tribute)
• Oct. 30: September (Earth, Wind & Fire tribute) On the web: uptowncharlotte.com
Friendsgiving welcomes all faiths
CHARLOTTE – What began in 1975 as one of the Southeast’s first interfaith Thanksgiving services has blossomed into an annual tradition. Reimagined as the Mecklenburg Interfaith Friendsgiving, the celebration re ects the cultural diversity and interfaith connections of the region. This free event starts at 6 p.m. Nov. 20 at Myers Park Baptist Church, 1900 Queens Road. Friendsgiving will feature an international buffet with global cuisine, Ukrainian children’s dance team, a high school singer-songwriter, Sikh musicians, an African drum call and art and cultural displays from local Turkish, Ukrainian and Haitian communities.
MeckMIN Executive Director LeDayne McLeese Polaski described the celebration as “a powerful statement of solidarity at a time when spaces that celebrate diversity are increasingly rare and urgently needed.”
Registration is required at https://www.meckmin. org/event-details/mecklenburg-interfaith-friendsgiving-2. A donation of $10 is encouraged to help o set food costs.
Quick Hits
• Matthews Town Attorney Daniel Peterson earned Lawyer of the Year in
Homes has opened Bellflower, a new 76-unit townhome community on Swan Meadow Lane near Rea Road.
e three-story homes range from 2,003 to 2,080 square feet with two to four bedrooms, 2.5 to 3.5 baths and two-bay tandem garages. Floorplans feature open layouts, nine-foot ceilings and covered outdoor spaces.
e community includes a dog park and smart home features through Tri Pointe’s LivingSmart program.
“Bellflower was designed for the homeowner who does not want to compromise comfort for convenience,” marketing manager Valerie Heritage said. Prices start in the $500,000s. e grand opening will be held Oct. 11.
On the web: tripointehomes.com/ charlotte
Scooter’s Coffee supports Make-A-Wish MONROE – Scooter’s Co ee is donating a portion of sales from its new Courage Cookie Sandwich to Make-A-Wish through October.
The treat features two rainbow-sprinkled sugar cookies with vanilla buttercream, created to honor the courage of children with critical illnesses.
Scooter’s Co ee has locations in
Municipal Litigation by e Best Lawyers in America.
• Dr. Walter Thomas has retired from Matthews Children’s Clinic after 36 years of service.
• Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools is only going to print progress reports and report cards this year for grades K-2. Older grades can view them online through an Innite Campus account. Oct. 31 marks the last day of the quarter.
• The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department is collecting food donations for Second Harvest in October at its South Division O ce, 11217 Providence Road W.
• Charlotte Country Day School celebrated 20 years of its Create to Donate Pottery Workshop, whose sales of artwork have bene tted Via Health Partners.
• The Stallings Police Department promoted Ben Davis to lieutenant and Josh Smith to sergeant. SPD also hired Josh Bolick and Kole Pennington as o cers.
• The Bojangles Entertainment Complex recently marked its 70th anniversary with a special ribbon cutting and rededication of its historic marquee. The BOplex has hosted the likes of Elvis Presley and Bruce Springsteen.
• NoDa Brewing Co. has selected Charlotte Radiology, Envision Charlotte, Smart Start of Mecklenburg County and e Coalition for Cultural Compassion as beneficiaries of its Poured with Purpose program. Get a token with a beer or cocktail purchased on Tuesday to contribute to the nonpro t of your choice.
• The Town of Indian Trail engraves the names of veterans, their military branch and dates of service on the Veterans Memorial at Indian Trail Town Hall for $50. Call 704-821-5401 to buy an engraving.
• South Piedmont Community College featured works by Ansley Adams, Morganne Van Voorhis and Ida Irby during the Faculty Spotlight Art Show on Sept. 23 on the Old Charlotte Highway Campus.
Monroe (1306 W. Roosevelt Blvd.) and Indian Trail (5859 W. U.S. 74).
Surgical technology program earns kudos
MONROE – e surgical technology program at South Piedmont Community College received accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. is accreditation recognizes how the program meets national standards in allied health training. e surgical technology program at South Piedmont prepares students to become con dent, skilled, and reliable members of the surgical team. Accreditation ensures students gain the knowledge and skills needed for success.
Tommy Bahama Marlin Bar adds entrées
CHARLOTTE – Tommy Bahama’s Marlin Bar has unveiled a new menu featuring sharables, entrées, desserts and cocktails.
Here are some highlights:
• Sharables: Cauliflower & White Bean Hummus and Chicken & Pesto Flatbread.
• Desserts: Strawberry & Cream Cro e and Snicker Cro e
• Cocktails: Sunset Glow, Tropical Mule, Tommy Margarita and Aperol Spritz.
The Marlin Bar blends casual dining with shopping in a relaxed island setting, inviting guests to linger and enjoy signature favorites like Coconut Shrimp and Ahi Tuna Tacos. It is located at 4335 Barclay Downs Drive.
The menu includes a wide range of broths, proteins, vegetables and dipping sauces designed to deliver the full Sichuan hotpot experience. Photo courtesy of American Asset Corporation
Physicians Young Jae Byun, Sriram Navuluri and Jeanne Hatcher have joined Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates. Photo courtesy of CEENTA
All three floorplans of Bellflower (Bellamy, Dahlia and Paloma) provide spacious, open-concept layouts that maximize flow and natural light. Photo courtesy of Tri Pointe Homes
Oct. 12).
Oct. 10
Beats ‘n Bites
Robyn Springer performs a Sade tribute during the latest installment of Beats ‘n Bites series at Stumptown Park.
e Town of Matthews also brings in food trucks for the event. matthewsnc.gov
5-9 p.m.; 120 S. Trade St., Matthews
Bingo Night Matthews UMC hosts a Community Bingo Night with a fall-inspired dinner and a chance to win some non-cash prizes at the gym. The cost is $30 for two or more participants or $10 for a single ticket. A nursery available for kids 3 and younger at an additional cost of $10 per family. Register at https://bit.ly/4mhaKqU
5:30-7:30 p.m., 801 S. Trade St., Matthews Boo at Blair
e Town of Stallings presents Halloween-themed activities during Boo at Blair at Blair Mill Park. Activities include Halloween bingo, crafts and a screening of “Hocus Pocus.” stallingsnc.org
5:30-10 p.m.; 1025 Fair Oaks Drive, Stallings
Mystery Movie
Sweet Union Brewing screens a lm during Mystery Spooky Movie. A food truck will be available. Free popcorn will be served while supplies last during the rst hour.
6:30 p.m.; 13717 E. Independence Blvd., Indian Trail
Oct. 11
Trading Cards e Charlotte Card Show features more than 300 tables of sports cards and memorabilia at Park Expo Center. Admission costs $7 for one day and $10 for the weekend (event continues 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
thecharlottecardshow.com
9 a.m.-4 p.m.; 2500 E. Independence Blvd., Charlotte
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
9:30-10 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station 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
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
Homework Help
Children in elementary school can get one-on-one help on their homework at Matthews Library. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Matthews
10 a.m.-noon; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Fall for Matthews e Matthews Area Chamber of Commerce presents the Fall for Matthews festival at Stumptown Park. e event includes arts and crafts, music, and activities.
matthewschamber.org
10 a.m.-4 p.m.; 120 S. Trade St., Matthews
Fall Festival
St. Luke Catholic Church
Mint Hill hosts its annual Fall Festival with a bake sale, book sale, children’s zone, artisan market, music and games. stlukechurch.net
10 a.m.-4 p.m.; 13700 Lawyers Road, Mint Hill
Autumn Treasures e Town of Waxhaw presents live music, food trucks, children’s zone and vendor market during Autumn Treasures in the downtown area. Catch Kids Stage performances at 11 a.m. and the BBQ competition at noon (tickets cost $1). waxhaw.com
10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Downtown Waxhaw
Puzzle Swap
The community can swap puzzles with at least 300 pieces at Matthews Library. Make sure there are no missing pieces.
cmlibrary.org/locations/ Matthews
10:30-11:30 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Charity Softball
Matthews fire and police departments play a charity softball game at Arthur Goodman Memorial Park. A DJ and barbecue will be available. Admission is free. Donations are accepted to bene t MARA and the Rotary Club of Matthews. Find the event at eventbrite.com.
4:30 p.m.; 1200 S. Trade St., Matthews
Outdoor Movie Aurora Starlit Cinemas screens “Ghostbusters” during the Movie on the Patio series at Carolina Beer Temple. carolinabeertemple.com
7 p.m.; 215 N. Ames St., Matthews
Oct. 13
Trivia Night
Shep’s Bar & Grill hosts trivia on Mondays. shepsbar.com 7-9 p.m.; 8111 Fairview Road, Mint Hill
Karaoke
Ames Street Marketplace hosts karaoke on Mondays at the Back Corner. carolinabeertemple.com
7-10 p.m.; 215 N. Ames St., Matthews
Oct. 14
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
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 10:15-10:45 or 11-11:30 a.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
Book Club
The Books & Banter book club discusses “Travels With Charley” by John Steinbeck at Mint Hill Library. Register in advance at cmlibrary.org/ locations/Mint-Hill.
1-2:30 p.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
Writing Group e Adult Writing Group at Matthews Library shares their ideas and feedback. Register in advance at cmlibrary.org/
locations/Matthews.
6:30-7:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Trivia
Carolina Beer Temple hosts a trivia night on Tuesdays. carolinabeertemple.com
7-10 p.m.; 215 N. Ames St., Matthews
Karaoke
Shep’s Bar & Grill hosts karaoke on Tuesdays. shepsbar.com
7-10 p.m.; 8111 Fairview Road, Mint Hill
Oct. 15
Baby Storytime
Children ages 0-2 build language and socialization skills in Baby Storytime at Matthews Library. Register for the event 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 10:15-10:45 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Baby 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 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
Book Club e Pocket-Size Book Club discusses “Mrs. March” by Virginia Feito at Matthews Library. The club is for adults. Register in advance at cmlibrary.org/locations/ Matthews.
1-2 p.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
3:30-4:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews Bike Night Kristopher’s Sports Bar & Restaurant hosts a Bike Night with a DJ and drink specials. kristopherssportsbar.com
5:30-8:30 p.m.; 250 N. Trade St., Matthews
Oct. 16
Mint Hill Madness Mint Hill Madness kicks o three days of fun at Mint Hill Veterans Memorial Park. DJ Big C performs on the Novant Health Main Stage from 4 to 9 p.m. All-you-can-ride wristbands are available ( ursday only) for $30. minthillevents. org/schedule 4-9 p.m.; 8850 Fairview Road, Mint Hill
Hits After Six 5 of a Kid performs a concert during Hits After Six at Chestnut Square Park. indiantrail.org 6-9 p.m.; 320 Chestnut Pkwy., Indian Trail
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Día de Muertos Festival explores cultural traditions
CHARLOTTE – The Latin American Coalition, in partnership with the Levine Museum of the New South, invites the community to celebrate life, heritage and remembrance at the Día de Muertos Festival.
e festival honors ancestors and showcases the vibrancy of Latin American culture through art, music, dance and food. It takes place from noon to 8 p.m. Nov. 1 at Camp North End, 1774 Statesville Ave.
Día de Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a Mexican holiday with roots in indigenous cultures that date back to the Aztecs. e celebration honors those who have passed while emphasizing the belief that death is a natural part of life and should be acknowledged and celebrated.
“Día de Muertos is both a personal and collective celebration; a chance to remember those we love while sharing the beauty of this tradition with the wider community,” said José Hernández-París, CEO of the Latin American Coalition. “We are proud to see how Charlotte has embraced this event year after year, making it a cultural touchstone for Latin families and a moment of unity and joy for the entire city.”
As guests enter the Ford Building, they will be greeted by larger-than-life catrinas and other traditional art installations created by local artist Luis Abundez. Once inside, guests can revel in the many community altars. ese are multi-tiered ofrendas honoring loved ones and serving as a central component of Día de Muertos.
e top tier typically displays photographs and religious symbols, often including La Virgen de Guadalupe. e middle tier holds offerings such as favorite toys, beverages, foods, personal mementos, sweets and pan de muerto. e bottom tier is adorned with candles. Some include a wash bin to welcome the spirits of the departed. Individuals and families interested in creating their own ofrenda for the festival can register at https:// latinamericancoalition.org/dia-de-muertos/ altares/.
In addition to individual community submissions, this year’s altars will feature creations from organizations across Charlotte, including Hispanic Federation, La Muerte CLT, Girl Scouts Tropa 03, Obra Collective, Dos Caminos, Consulado General de México en Raleigh, Levine Museum of the New South and the Latin American Coalition.
For creative writers, calaveras literarias are playful and satirical poems that re ect on life and death, o ering another creative way to honor and celebrate loved ones no longer with us. Guests can enjoy live readings throughout the day and are encouraged to submit their own to be featured at the festival and on digital platforms. Submissions can be made by Oct. 25 at https://latinamericancoalition.org/dia-de-muertos/calaveras/.
“Part of our mission at Levine Museum is to highlight the histories and traditions that shape the South,” said Richard Cooper, president and CEO of the museum. “Our partnership with the Latin American Coalition on this festival for more than 11 years re ects our shared belief that Charlotte is strongest when we recognize and celebrate the diversity that de nes it. Día de Muertos is a joyful example of how culture and history enrich us all.”
Organizers said the 2025 festival is made possible thanks to the support of Bank of America. Individuals interested in participating as a volunteer can sign up at https://dash. pointapp.org/events/396130.
Schedule of Events
• 12 to 6 p.m.: Kids Zone
– Families can
participate in free arts and crafts activities, including marigold ower-making and exploring traditional instruments, as well as small-fee activities such as face painting and canvas painting.
• 12:30 to 7:30 p.m.: Live Performances
– Bilingual music and cultural dance group performances by Criss Cross Mango Sauce, JazzArts Charlotte, El Alma de la Luna Dance Academy, Grupo Folklórico El Canto, Chinelos Carnavaleros de Charlotte, Des le de las Catrinas, Mariachi Guadalupano, Grupo Argullo and Alma Latin.
• 4:30 p.m.: Catrina Parade – Catrinas are iconic gures of the celebration, symbolizing death through vibrant costumes and creative makeup. is year’s Catrina parade is led by youth and community volunteers, and participants are encouraged to take part in honoring tradition and embracing the festive spirit. Register to participate at https://latinamericancoalition.org/dia-de-muertos/catrinas/.
• Festival-goers can enjoy authentic food and drinks from local vendors, including El
El
and
Palión,
Langunero, Armando Frutas
La Michoacana. Pan de muerto, the sweet bread baked in honor of Día de Muertos, will also be available.
Día de Muertos Festival has become an annual tradition in Charlotte. More than 18,000 people attended last year’s event. Photos courtesy of Levine Museum of the New South
Día de Muertos, or Day of the Dead, celebrates those who have passed.
The Latin American Coalition will be one of several organizations creating community alfters. Each tier has significance. Photo courtesy of Levine Museum of the New South
NASCAR Hall of Fame Foundation holds Putting for Purpose
e
for a round of putt-putt and
“In just its second year, this event has grown in ways we never could have imagined, and today’s fundraising total shows just how deeply our community believes in the mission of the NASCAR Hall of Fame Foundation,” said Winston Kelley, executive director of the NASCAR Hall of Fame. “What matters most is what these funds will do, changing the lives of students we serve.”
e foundation has provided scholarships for more than 8,000 students over the past two years. Attendees heard rsthand from students who directly benefited from the scholarship program.
NASCAR Hall of Famers Kurt Busch, Ron Hornaday Jr. and Bobby Labonte as well as NASCAR Cup Series drivers Ryan Preece and AJ Allmendinger were among those on the course. Sponsors such as Team Penske, Hendrick
Motorsports, Generations of Giving and others made the day possible.
e Putting for Purpose program wrapped up with awards for top golfers, recognition of auction winners, and rsthand experiences of donors who fuel the foundation’s work. is year’s proceeds will expand scholarship opportunities, fund new initiatives like the All-Girls STRE(A)M Camp, and strengthen educational programming that reached more than 22,000 students nationwide last year.
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TECHNOLOGY LEAD (Charlotte, NC): migrate legacy Java apps. to use in modern Java libraries; create automation tools to enhance migration process; optimize gradle guild scripts; conduct code reviews, perform troubleshooting. Masters (or foreign equiv. deg.) in Computer Science or rel. + possess knowledge in Java, Spring Boot, Spring Microservices, Kafka, Angular, Oracle Database, Jenkins, GitHub, ServiceNow, design of scalable Java applications and Java Custom Libraries; Java migration; front end frameworks. Travel to unanticipated client sites throughout the US. Mail resume: The Brixton Group LLC, 3625 Pickwick Lane, Charlotte, NC 28211. Premier, Inc. seeks a Senior TechOps Engineer in Charlotte, NC. Telecommuting is permitted. Apply at www.jobpostingtoday.com (Ref #69135).
Hendrick Motorsports was among sponsors for the Putting for Purpose putt-putt tournament. Photos courtesy of Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority
Proceeds from Putting for Purpose support the NASCAR Hall of Fame Foundation’s scholarship program.
The NASCAR Hall of Fame currently serves 21,000+ students annually with educational workshops that are extensions of classroom learning.
LIVE MUSIC
K-Pop group to perform at Spectrum Center
CHARLOTTE – K-Pop superstars
TWICE announced a 2026 world tour that includes a stop at Charlotte’s Spectrum Center on March 31.
Members Nayeon, Jeongyeon, Momo, Sana, Jihyo, Mina, Dahyun, Chaeyoung and Tzuyu will perform a career-spanning setlist featuring hits like “The Feels,” “More & More” and “Fancy,” to arenas worldwide.
For the first time, TWICE will perform inthe-round on a 360-degree stage, transforming arenas into immersive spaces where fans can experience the show from every angle.
In 2024, TWICE became the first female K-Pop group to headline both MLB and NFL stadiums, selling out Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium and New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium.
Most recently, TWICE released their fourth full-length album, “this is for,” which debuted in the top 10 on the Billboard 200 chart, marking the group’s seventh consecutive entry on the chart.
The group also contributed to the official soundtrack for Netflix’s hit film “K-Pop Demon Hunters.” Get tickets at livenation.com.
Oct. 10
• Americana Beer Co.: Avery Creek
• Amos’ Southend: Winyah
• Char Bar No. 7 (Mint Hill): Ana Kimm
• Evening Muse: Brian Dunne; Daisha McBride
• Grapes Wine Bar & Bistro: Reinaldo
• Great Wagon Road Distilling (Waxhaw): Chris Reed
• Home Brew Taproom: Brooke McBride
• Knight Theater: Charlotte Symphony Orchestra
• Moochies Tavern: Save July
• Neighborhood Theatre: Artemis Pyle Band
• Pineville Tavern: Whiskey Alibi
DINING SCORES
• Southern Range: Brayden Howell
• Stooges Pub & Grub: Off the Record
• The Club House Bites and Booze: Stereo
Waves
• The Fillmore: The Living Tombstone
• The Trail House: Mike’d Up
• The Underground: Sons of the East
Oct. 11
• Amos’ Southend: Purgatory
• Evening Muse: Florencia & the Feeling; Quique Escamilla
• Franklin Court Grille: Dual Drive
• Great Wagon Road Distilling (Waxhaw): Scoot Pittman
• Knight Theater: Charlotte Symphony
Orchestra
• Local Logic: AJ Holt
• Moochies Tavern: 485
• Neighborhood Theatre: Joshua Radin
• Oaklore Distilling Co.: Bill Porter
• Pineville Tavern: Electric Dynamite
• Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre: Jon Pardi
• Stooges Pub & Grub: Next O’ Kin
• The Amp Ballantyne: Watchhouse
• The Club House Bites and Booze: Stelling
Rising
• The Courthouse Self-Pour Beer & Wine:
Chance Howland
• The Trail House: Shotgun Saints
• The Underground: Ethan Regan
Oct. 12
• Evening Muse: Rehash
• Neighborhood Theatre: Blessing Offer
• Peddlers Paradise Bartique: Kelsey
• The Fillmore: Alestorm
• The Union Exchange: Carrie Ann
Oct. 13
• Evening Muse: Open Mic
• Neighborhood Theatre: The California Honeydrops
• Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre: Papa
3022 Weddington Road – 97 Mint Hill • Coco Mexican Restaurant, 6914 Matthews-Mint Hill Road – 89 • Food Lion (deli), 6275 Wilson Grove Road – 98.5 • Food Lion (meat/seafood), 6275 Wilson Grove Road – 99 • Food Lion )produce), 6275 Wilson Grove Road – 99.5 • Publix (meat market), 6828 Matthews-Mint Hill Road – 100 Monroe
• Ala Azteca Butcher Shop, 2300 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 97.5 • Crossroads Diner, 4218 E. Highway 218 – 93.5
• Edible Arrangement, 3306 W. Highway 74 – 97.5
• Food Geeks Eatery, 1902 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 95
• Food Lion (deli), 2118 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 94.5
• Food Lion (meat market), 2118 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 98 • Food Lion (produce), 2118 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 98 • Franklin Court Grille, 232 E. Franklin St. – 97.5 • Mr. G’s Grill, 427 Morgan Mill Road – 96 • Pepperoni’s Pizza, 6203 S. Rocky River Road – 93 • RoughEdge Trading Co., 5310 Lancaster Hwy. – 99 • Spiro’s Hilltop Fish Fare & Steakhouse, 1602 E. Roosevelt Blvd. – 95 • SPI Express, 2623 Sikes Mill Road – 94.5 • Stacks Kitchen, 1315 N. Broome St. –94.5 • The Derby Restaurant & Bar, 1012 Skyway Drive – 98 • The Sandwich Shop, 100 N. Secrest Ave. – 93.5 • Taqueria Veracruz Mexico, 1228 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 95.5 • Vera’s Kitchen, 1951 Dickerson Blvd. –100
Pineville • El Veracruz Restaurant, 391 Towne Centre Blvd. – 98 • Margaux’s Wine, Pizza & Market, 316 Main St. – 98.5
• Neighborhood Theatre: Sal Williams & Carlos Niño & Friends
• Peddlers Paradise Bartique: Open Mic
• Stooges Pub & Grub: Young at Heart
• The Club House Bites and Booze: Omari
Duo
• The Trail House: George Moody Duo
Oct. 16
• Char Bar No. 7 (Mint Hill): Mark Pelfrey
• Evening Muse: Ben Sollee
• Home Brew Taproom: Open Mic
• Iron Thunder Saloon: Adam Daniels
• Neighborhood Theatre: Everclear
• Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre: Kevin
Gates
• The Painted Tree: Carrie Ann
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: 900
NC Music Factory Blvd.
• The Amp Ballantyne: 11115 Upper Ave.
• The Club House Bites and Booze: 16715
Orchard Stone Run
• The Fillmore:
Artist explores tourism’s impact on the environment
CHARLOTTE – Maja Godlewska has spent the last two decades exploring the intricate, and often disruptive, ways humanity interacts with the natural world.
The artist’s latest body of work explores tourism’s impact on the environment and will take center stage as the next Constellation CLT installation at Mint Museum Uptown. The exhibit is on view from Oct. 3 to March 1, 2026.
Informed by her global residencies and travel, Godlewska brings an international perspective to her work. Where conversations focus on climate change, Godlewska asks us to look closer at something more personal: our own desire to see the world and how our explorations affect the environment.
“I often chose to follow tourists through spectacular environments, struck by how quickly we just capture a view and hurry to the next,” Godlewska said. “Beneath this rush is the sense of inevitable loss – of natural
habitats, of environments once considered eternal, from ice fields to rainforests. A global urgency to see them before they vanish only continues to grow. The works in this exhibition are my contemplations of nature: expressions of wonder and longing, invitations to pause, to look closely and to revere.”
Her large-scale, immersive installations are crafted with watercolor paper, ink and sculptural forms. They mimic the rhythms of the land while evoking memory, movement and erosion.
In its eighth year, Constellation CLT is an exhibition series designed to connect visitors to The Mint Museum with artists in the community.
Godlewska’s installations can be seen in six places at Mint Museum Uptown: at the museum entryway; on the landings of the Mezzanine and Levels 3 and 4; in the Contemporary Galleries, and in the Mint Museum Store Uptown.
Girl Scouts share safety tips for fall foliage hikes
CHARLOTTE – Fall in North Carolina means crisp air, colorful leaves and the perfect opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. With many families and adventure-seekers hitting the trails to take in breathtaking views, Girl Scouts Hornets’ Nest Council is reminding the community to make safety a top priority during fall hikes.
“North Carolina’s forests are stunning this time of year, and we want everyone to experience the joy of being outside while staying safe,” said Gabby Colarusso, director of outdoor programming and training for the Girl Scouts Hornets’ Nest Council. “The changing leaves and cooler temperatures make for memorable adventures, but preparation and awareness are key to ensuring a positive hiking experience.”
The Girl Scouts share these essential safety tips to help hikers of all ages enjoy fall foliage season:
• Always stay on the trail.
• Never hike alone.
• Be prepared for the length of your hike.
• Always bring water.
• Wear comfortable shoes (don’t wear a new pair on a long hike).
• For long or remote hikes, bring someone with wilderness first aid training.
Following these safety practices can help families and outdoor enthusiasts create lasting memories. Visit hngirlscouts.org for more information about outdoor programming with the Girl Scouts Hornets’ Nest Council.
Mac’s Speed Shop hosts Pig Pickin’
CHARLOTTE – Mac’s Speed Shop is partnering with the Carolina BBQ Festival to host its annual Pig Pickin’ on Oct. 19 at its South End location (2511 South Blvd).
Being held at Mac’s for the first time, the Pig Pickin’ is a celebration of whole-hog barbecue, Carolina food heritage and community. This year’s event also continues Mac’s 20th anniversary celebration.
“The Pig Pickin’ is one of the most exciting celebrations of Carolina barbecue, and we couldn’t be prouder to host it at Mac’s this year,” said Tony Salerno, president of Mac’s Hospitality Group. “Pairing legendary local pitmasters with our 20th anniversary and an official Panthers Watch Party makes this a oneof-a-kind Sunday of food, football and community.”
From noon to 4 p.m., guests can enjoy tastings from an all-star lineup of pitmasters, including:
• Charles Long, Mac’s Speed Shop, whole hog
• Matthew Barry, Midwood Smokehouse, pig wings
• Lewis Donald, Sweet Lew’s BBQ, oysters
• Garren Kirkman, Jon G’s Barbecue, brisket
Guests can also enjoy exclusive drink specials crafted for the event, including:
• The Pitmaster: Spirits of Alchemy Cinnamon Cayenne Bespoke plus Crown Royal over ice, garnished with dried orange
• Smokin’ Margarita: Spirits of Alchemy Hibiscus Habanero over ice, garnished with dried lime
• Carolina BBQ Festival Signature Bloody Mary: The Morning After Bloody Mary with The Smoke, finished with sweet heat, hickory and chipotle
Tickets cost $25 and include a tasting from each pitmaster (drinks not included). A limited number of Pit Pass upgrades are also available, providing early entry at 11 a.m., automatic raffle entry and first access to seating. Tickets can be purchased via Eventbrite.
As an extension of the Carolina BBQ Festival, the Pig Pickin’ was launched in 2023 to spotlight the celebration of whole-hog barbecue.
“Teaming up with Mac’s for the Pig Pickin’ allows us to highlight what makes barbecue special, bringing people together around great food, Carolina traditions, and of course, a little football,” said Lewis Donald, founder of the Carolina BBQ Festival and Sweet Lew’s BBQ.
