The 10-31-2025 Edition of The Charlotte Weekly Union County
– The City of Monroe will receive more than $1.34 million through the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina’s Selectsite Readiness Program.
e funding will support key improvements at one of Monroe’s industrial sites.
The city’s application was approved for $1,341,205, which includes $1,048,216 for site clearing and $292,989 for water system upgrades. e EDPNC board also announced that Monroe will receive automatic
consideration for an additional $1.56 million in future site grading when more funding becomes available.
“We are grateful for the state’s con dence in our vision and excited to deliver results,” City Manager Mark Watson said. “ is investment strengthens Monroe's foundation for future growth, enhances our ability to compete for high-quality manufacturing projects and supports the long-term vitality of our local economy.”
The North Carolina General Assembly
MONROE
– The City of Monroe celebrated the launch of a new apprenticeship program that will offer hands-on, paid learning opportunities to help residents develop skills and connect with in-demand career fields.
e Hammer and Hope Apprenticeship Program, led by Union-Anson County Habitat for Humanity, is part of Monroe's Good Jobs Great Cities 'MonroeWorks' initiative. It focuses on building stronger futures through workforce development, apprenticeships and collaboration.
e program launched during a Hammer and Hope event Sept. 25 at Habitat for Humanity’s Union-Anson County o ces.
Attendees included:
• Teresa Campo, director of the Monroe O ce
of Economic Development.
• Dennis Baucom, construction management technology program lead at South Piedmont Community College.
• Dora Devarie, veteran career advisor and business services representative with NCWorks.
All three represent member organizations of Monroe’s Good Jobs, Great Cities Cohort, a collaborative group working to connect residents with training and career opportunities.
“Hands-on training, paid career opportunities and long-term pathways in the construction industry continue to diversify and strengthen Monroe’s position as a hub for workforce development and economic growth,” Campo said.
Union-Anson County Habitat for Humanity has been an important partner in the
CHARLOTTE – More than 300 Duke Energy employees joined the Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina and the American Red Cross of North Carolina on Oct. 15 to assemble 7,000 storm kits for families across 24 counties in the Carolinas.
e event earned a Guinness World Record for the most people assembling disaster preparedness kits simultaneously, according to Duke Energy.
Louis Duke, director of the Duke Energy Foundation, said the kits contained shelf-stable food and emergency preparedness items.
“By this weekend, these kits will be on the shelves in the [Second Harvest] Food Bank distribution sites and food pantry network across 24 counties,” Duke said. “ is whole region is going to bene t from these boxes, and we know that they’re going to be in the hands of folks who need them very soon, ensuring that families are storm ready and that matters a lot to Duke Energy.”
Monroe gets $1.34M in funding to prep industrial site
established the Selectsite Readiness Program in 2023 to help communities prepare mid-sized industrial properties (less than 1,000 acres) for large-scale, advanced manufacturing projects. Funding may support grading, clearing, infrastructure or engineering improvements.
“Selectsite funds are necessary to continue development of these critical sites,” Mayor Robert Burns said. “City council and I are committed to working with our state’s legislative leaders to ensure future funding opportunities are available.”
Teresa Campo, director of the O ce of Economic Development, described the grant as a vote of con dence in Monroe’s economic development e orts.
“Being chosen again positions us to attract new investment, create jobs and continue to build a strong future for our people,” Campo said. “ is recognition a rms that Monroe is not only ready for growth but ready to lead in shaping North Carolina’s next generation of advanced manufacturing opportunities.”
On the web: DevelopMonroe.com
Habitat launches Hammer and Hope Apprenticeship Program
MonroeWorks initiative since its inception and other partner organizations, such as Common Heart and the Community Shelter of Union County, also participated in the event, sharing insight on their workforce support programs.
“ is program re ects what our MonroeWorks initiative is all about,” City Manager Mark Watson said. “Building strong partnerships that help people gain real skills and create lasting careers.”
Residents can learn more about local apprenticeship and workforce opportunities by visitingMonroeWorks.org. Interested participants may also contact Russell Carpenter, director of apprenticeships and work-based learning at South Piedmont Community College, at rcarpenter@spcc.edu or 704-290-5892.
Duke Energy helps assemble storm kits
Union County leader provides context on UCPS funding
By Melissa Merrell Contributor
This year, the board of county commissioners significantly increased funding to Union County Public Schools – approving nearly $9 million more than last year, for a total of $160 million. From our earliest budget discussions in April, the county was transparent that the district’s full request would require a tax rate increase. During a public hearing in June, board of education members and UCPS senior sta publicly con rmed that the $8.8 million in additional funds would be su cient to provide a $1,000 increase to the teacher supplement and provide funding for other projects, as requested.
It is also important to note that, under North Carolina law, county commissioners have no authority to direct how the board of education allocates the county funding it receives.
As the former chair of the board of education, I fully support our teachers and am still shocked that the $1,000 supplement increase has not yet been provided. is increase would bring the total county supplement to $7,341 and move our teacher supplement from #37 to approximately #18 in the state. I am hopeful that the board of education will approve the teacher supplement increase at its November meeting and make it retroactive to July.
Melissa Merrell chairs the Union County Board of Commissioners.
Melissa Merrell
Teresa Campo, director of the Monroe Office of Economic Development, explains the labor market and workforce in Monroe.
Photo courtesy of the City of Monroe
Duke Energy worked to ensure families are prepared for storms by assembling disaster preparedness kits. Photo courtesy of Duke Energy
Threads for Change supports International House
MONROE
– Ananya Raj, a senior at the Central Academy of Technology and Arts, and four of her classmates founded reads for Change.
e service project upcycles donated clothing into fashion through alteration techniques such as embroidery and bleach painting. e group has created more than
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60 pieces of clothing since June and recently showcased them Sept. 19 in a student-run fashion show. After the fashion show, the items were sold at silent auction. reads for Change donated the $3,000 raised from the show to International House in Charlotte, a nonpro t that works with immigrant communities.
Follow reads for Change on Instagram, @threadsforchangeclt.
City of Charlotte announces Urbies winners
CHARLOTTE – The City of Charlotte Urban Design Center hosted the Urban Design Awards on Oct. 23.
A jury of 10 urban design professionals selected the following winners from a field of public nominations:
• Development Near Transite Pass
• Walkable Neighborhood - Belmont
• New Life for an Old Place –Carolina eater
• Public Space – Rail Trail
• Placemaking – Purposeful Walk
• Mobility Project – XCLT Trail
• Urban Architecture – The Collective
• Urban Design Champion –Dave Walters
• Neighborhood Champion –Rickey Hall
• Student Project – e Artist Touch
• Suburban Design – Montford Park
• People’s Choice Award (Urban Design) – Camp North End
“As Charlotte continues to grow, thoughtful urban design plays a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for all residents,” said Monica Holmes, interim director of the Charlotte Planning, Design & Development Department. “ e Urbies celebrate the people, projects and partnerships that make our city’s spaces more vibrant and people focused.”
Students are Coca-Cola Scholars semifinalists
CHARLOTTE – Five area students have been named semi nalists for the Coca-Cola Scholars Program.
Semi nalists include:
• Liam Campbell, Providence High School in Charlotte.
• Sophey Cherry, Northwest School of the Arts in Charlotte.
• Yohanna Mesfin, Hickory Grove Christian School in Charlotte.
• Leticia Ortiz, Levine Middle College High School in Matthews.
• Shaylen Mehta, Central Academy of Technology and Arts in Monroe.
Semi nalists will submit an application that includes an essay, a transcript and a recommendation in hopes of advancing to the next round, according to the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation.
e foundation will name 250 Regional Finalists in January and 150 Regional Finalists-select in February.
Scott Hunt was recently sworn into his new role as staff attorney at the Union County Courthouse.
Hunt joins Monroe as staff
attorney
MONROE – e City of Monroe appointed Scott Hunt as sta attorney.
Hunt will assist the city’s department heads with legal questions and represent the city in a variety of matters. He will work closely with City Attorney Richard Long Jr. and Senior Sta Attorney Terry Sholar.
“We look forward to working with him to make the city attorney’s
o ce the best it can be,” Long said. Hunt has more than two decades of legal experience. He previously practiced law in Kentucky, where he worked extensively in litigation and represented municipal, county, state and quasi-governmental boards and entities.
Johnson earns Defender of Public Safety Award
RALEIGH – e North Carolina Sheri s’ Association recognized Sen. Todd Johnson as a 2025 Defender of Public Safety for his work done during the 2025 legislative session to protect public safety in North Carolina.
During a session which saw a heavy concentration of law enforcement and public safety-related bills, Johnson advocated for law enforcement issues important to the association.
“As a result, our sheri s will be able to see harsher punishments for criminals who poison our communities with fentanyl and for felons who aunt the law and continue to commit crimes with rearms that it is already illegal for them to possess,” said Sheri Ricky T. Buchanan, president of the association. “In addition, thanks to the leadership and support of legislators like Senator Johnson, sheri s also saw the passage of a bill this session resulting in law enforcement o cers no longer being forced to choose between continuing to work and serve the communities they love and losing a retirement bene t they worked a whole career to earn.”
e North Carolina Sheri s’ Association also recognized Dean Arp and Tricia Cotham as recipients of the 2025 Defender of Public Safety Award.
Union Academy partners with Positive Coaching Alliance
MONROE – Union Academy Athletics announced a new partnership with the Positive Coaching Alliance, a national nonpro t dedicated to developing “Better Athletes, Better People.”
Supported by a grant, UA will host PCA-led workshops for coaches and student-athletes throughout the year.
On Sept. 26, UA coaches participated in the rst session, Culture Shaping for Leaders, led by Bob MacKinnon, a longtime PCA trainer and professional basketball coach. e workshop helped UA coaches explore ways to build supportive team environments that foster growth, leadership and success on and o the eld.
“ is partnership with PCA gives our athletic community an important opportunity to grow and develop together,” said Grant Williams, athletic director. “We want every student-athlete to have a positive experience, and every coach to be equipped with the tools to inspire leadership and create a culture where all athletes can thrive.”
Nominate Man, Woman of the Year
MONROE – Nominations are being accepted for the 2025 Union County Man & Woman of the Year Award.
e Man and Woman of the Year are considered the top volunteers in Union County.
The award is based on volunteerism within Union County, not what people do as part of their jobs or on nancial contributions. Recipients should have worked with multiple organizations over multiple years bene ting the citizenry of Union County. Nominees must be a current resident of Union County.
Nomination forms ask for speci c volunteer leadership contributions the nominee has made to Union County in 2025 and previous years. ey are due by Oct. 31 to ucmotywoty@gmail.com.
Marshville wins economic development grant
RALEIGH – e Rural Infra-
structure Authority approved four grant requests under the state’s Rural Downtown Economic Development program, including one from the Town of Marshville, according to Gov. Josh Stein.
The Town of Marshville was awarded a $250,000 grant to assist the town in improving 385 feet of sidewalk. e Streetscape project involves expanding the sidewalk and improving electrical and lighting infrastructure, as well as ADA accessibility. e project is expected to leverage an investment of $860,379.
e Rural Downtown Economic Development Grants program provides grants to local governments to support downtown revitalization and economic development initiatives.
Driver not charged in pedestrian collision MONROE – e Monroe Police Department said criminal charges won’t be led for a collision involving a 14-year-old injured on an electric scooter around 4:45 p.m. Oct. 20 on Secrest Short Cut Road.
Investigators reviewed all available evidence, including video footage from the scene, determining the teen entered the roadway at the time he was struck by the vehicle
Police con rmed the driver of the vehicle was not impaired, was not speeding and remained on scene following the collision. Police said there was no indication of criminal intent or negligence on the part of the driver.
e teen was in critical condition at a Charlotte hospital as of Oct. 22.
Documentary explores mascot’s origins
MONROE – South Piedmont Community College will hold public screenings of its original documentary, “Later, Gator! From Sketch to Spirit,” which explores the creative journey that brought mascot Al the Gator to life.
Showings start at noon and 6 p.m. Nov. 3 in the Main Building Auditorium (room 3216) on the Old Charlotte Highway Campus. Register in advance at https://events.spcc.edu/event/spcc. events.717452.
T.J. Nealy, digital marketing manager, directed the documentary.
“Telling stories is something I’ve had a passion for since I was 6 years old, drawing comic books on my home computer,” Nealy said. “Having the unique opportunity to tell not only a story about South Piedmont, but a special story for the people of Anson County, is something I’m so honored to have the chance to do.”
South Piedmont offers Anson Advantage MONROE – South Piedmont Community College invites Anson County residents to a free webinar at 6 p.m. Nov. 6 to learn how they can earn a college degree or workforce certification at little to no cost through the Anson Advantage program. Created for Anson County residents, the program eliminates or significantly reduces tuition and fees, helping make higher education more accessible.
“Whether you’re graduating high school or changing careers, Anson Advantage makes your goals achievable,” said JJ Evans, vice president of student services. “ is program removes the nancial burden so you can focus on your future.” Register at spcc.edu/ ansonadvantage.
Chick-fil-A restaurant opens in Monroe MONROE – Chick- l-A Hilltop has opened at 1620 Campus Park Drive. is location marks the second restaurant in the community for owner-operator David Rowland. Rowland began his Chick- l-A
journey in 1979 as a high school employee in Charlotte and opened his first restaurant in Wilson in 1986. He moved to Monroe in 1990 to operate the Monroe Crossing Mall location. In 1999, he opened Chick-fil-A Monroe, which he will continue to operate alongside his new restaurant.
“Opening a second restaurant is not only exciting for me, it is also a way to expand my connection to the community I’ve proudly called home for over four decades,” Rowland said.
Chick- l-A will donate $25,000 to support Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina in honor of the new restaurant. e restaurant will also participate in the Chick- l-A Shared Table program, which redirects surplus food to nonpro ts.
South Charlotte Quick Hits
• The Afterschool Enrichment Program recognized Latisha Cathey, of Beverly Woods Elementary School, for providing the C.R.O.W.N. Experience to the school community, according to Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools.
• Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools recognized schools that exceeded 95% completion rate of SafeSchools Vector training modules by Sept. 30: Ballantyne Elementary, Community House Middle, Endhaven Elementary, Hawk Ridge Elementary, Matthews Elementary, Pineville Elementary, Polo Ridge Elementary and Providence Spring Elementary.
• Key dates on the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools calendar include Oct. 31 (last day of the quarter), Nov. 4 (teacher workday) and Nov. 11 (Veterans Day holiday).
• Pineville Police Chief Michael Hudgins wrapped up his fifth season coaching at Hope Soccer Ministries.
• The Mecklenburg County Sheri ’s O ce named Y. Xiong and L. Alford as September & October Employees of the Month.
Matthews-Mint Hill Quick Hits
• Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools recognized schools that exceeded 95% completion rate of SafeSchools Vector training modules by Sept. 30: Bain Elementary, Crestdale Middle, Elizabeth Lane Elementary and Matthews Elementary.
• Key dates on the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools calendar include Oct. 31 (last day of the quarter), Nov. 4 (teacher workday) and Nov. 11 (Veterans Day holiday).
• e Matthews Police Department held a K-9 o cer costume contest featuring Ripp (Batman), Ra (skeleton) and Rhett (werewolf) on Facebook. Ra earned the most votes.
• Mending Strides Ranch and Novant Health Mint Hill Medial Center partnered on a First Responders Mental Health Summit on Oct. 28 at the Matthews Community Center. e summit was scheduled to include a documentary screening, panel discussion and resource fair.
Union County Quick Hits
• NCDOT Division 10 Engineer Felix Obregon was scheduled to appear on the Town of Indian Trail’s Facebook Live event on Oct. 30.
• Transition to Adulthood students at Sun Valley and Monroe high schools are working at the Co ee Nut inside Monroe Aquatics & Fitness Center. Monroe High also has students in its Occupational Course of Study program working there, too.
• Coca-Cola Consolidated and Home Instead fed the Union County Sheri ’s O ce during a First Responder Appreciation Lunch events in recent days.
• Logan Gri n and Leticia Ficher have joined the Union County Sheri ’s O ce as detention o cers.
Threads for Change showed upcycled clothing during a fashion show.
Photos courtesy of Ananya Raj
Civil Air Patrol cadet receives top honor
By Capt. Joel Levy Contributor
MONROE – U.S. Con-
gressman Mark Harris and Union County GOP
Chair John Powell joined North Carolina Wing Commander Colonel Dennis Bissell at the Union County Composite Squadron (NC-300) weekly meeting recently to bestow the Civil Air Patrol’s most prestigious cadet honor, the General Carl A. Spaatz Award, on Cadet Colonel Cameron Rafiee Gerry.
As the Civil Air Patrol’s highest cadet achievement,
the award requires an average of ve years of dedication. Cadets must complete 16 achievements and pass rigorous academic, physical tness and leadership tests. Since its inception in 1964, fewer than 2,700 cadets nationwide have earned this distinction. Cadets who earn the General Carl A. Spaatz Award are eligible to enter the U.S. Air Force with the advanced rank of E-3, Airman First Class.
C/Col Gerry has been a committed cadet since joining NC-300 in 2022, quickly rising through the ranks and taking on leadership roles, culminating with his
tenure as Squadron Cadet Commander.
During his time with the squadron, he has participated in numerous prestigious training programs, including the Mid-Atlantic Region Cadet Leadership Academy and the National Emergency Services Academy, where he earned the highest ground search team quali cation for a cadet.
He recently put those search and rescue skills to good use by joining other squadron members on a missing person search.
He was a key member of the squadron’s 2024-25 CyberPatriot team (national,
Matthews Alive organizer says festival went smoothly
by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com
MATTHEWS – Matthews Alive organizers distributed $72,100 in proceeds from the 2025 festival to 44 nonprofits, according to Executive Director Lee Anne Moore.
Moore said nonprofits that received funding include those that helped complete large tasks and provided entertainment or space.
“Funds were also given to groups that may have been displaced due to changes that were made in the festival structure,” Moore told town commissioners Oct. 28. “If any of those changes displaced any of the longtime community groups that we worked with for several years, we made it our promise to be sure that those groups weren’t taken by surprise. They’ve had two or three years to adjust their budgets while still receiving festival funds – in case you’ve heard anything to the contrary.”
ere was some concern prior to this year’s festival about how the funding would be distributed to nonprofits.
Festival organizers sought to open up funding to nonprofits that could not participate in Matthews Alive due to a lack of volunteers.
“ e festival also provided funds to groups that never had the opportunity to join us but they provide valuable support to the community, and they need to be recognized for it,” Moore said. “It’s been a really neat addition to be able to give in a di erent way for me, and it’s been a lot of fun personally to reach out to people and surprise them with new gifts this year. People like the rotary club, the help center, free clinic, the chamber, historic foundation, and veterans groups. Like many others, I feel that’s a welcome change
and one that widely serves the community that we love.”
Moore said this year’s fourday festival went smoothly. She thanked accommodating neighbors, festival vendors, town sta , nonpro t partners, sponsors and festival board members Julie Bee, Dennis Green, Amanda Howard, Brian Lee and Heather ompson.
“This Matthews Alive board continued this year to streamline processes and make choices that put the organization in its most favorable position during changing times and during hurricane season,” Moore said. “I’ve said it before and I’ll continue to say it: after COVID, event costs went through the roof, volunteerism changed dramatically across the community, vendors had smaller sta s to work with and events just became more tricky to put on.”
Moore explained that board members are volunteers who work all year on tasks that include selecting vendors; collecting applications and money; communicating with partners; hauling, setting up and breaking down materials; meeting with nonprofits; writing thank you notes; and managing bills.
“This group works Matthews Alive for a lot of reasons,” Moore said. “Some of them feel the tug of childhood memories of coming to the festival and wanting to be part of that type of the tradition. Some just want to see it continue but continue in the right way, in a fair way, fair to all involved, in a way that evolves with the times. ey want to guide it in that direction.
“I feel strongly that these, and frankly all other town volunteers across a lot of our boards, should be sincerely thanked for their service. Some outside forces may not
want to see it that way, and it can get incredibly disheartening. We’re actually losing some great folks because of that very thing. ese board members and many before them have thoughtfully brought the festival forward, giving freely of their time and e ort. I appreciate them for it, and I hope others do too.”
One big change with this year’s festival was the parade route. The parade turned right onto John Street and continued to Covenant Church Lane, where participants could disembark.
“After years of going through the middle of the footprint, even the parade took a turn for the better,” she said. “ is one change allowed for art in the street that kids could get involved in for free. It also allowed for a golf simulator and a second kids’ activity for kids that are 5 and under from PNC Bank.
Planning has already started for 2026. Moore said she has gotten a lot of questions about national country acts that used to perform during the festival. While such acts can be pricey, she told commissioners she would look for performers who t the festival’s price range.
Mayor John Higdon credited Moore and her team for embodying the mantra, “proper prior planning prevents poor performance.”
“I frequently find myself standing with Lee Anne Moore in the midst of the festival, and she’s never worried about anything,” Higdon said. “Any kind of contingency you’re prepared for and that doesn’t happen by accident. I recognize that’s the great planning on your guys’ part and we very much appreciate it. Matthews Alive has become a key signature event for our community, so thank you so very much.”
multi-service, cybersecurity competition), finishing on the rst-place team in North Carolina. Cameron was recently awarded a Civil Air Patrol Cadet Wings Scholarship, which will enable him to complete his private pilot certi cate.
C/Col Gerry is the most recent cadet at NC-300 to receive the General Carl A. Spaatz Award. The squadron last saw one of its cadets achieve this honor in 2018.
e North Carolina Wing of the Civil Air Patrol includes nearly 1,400 cadets, while more than 30,000 cadets participate nationwide.
Squadron Commander Lt.
Col. Michael Krueger praised Gerry’s accomplishment, noting, “This is an amazing achievement for Cameron and he is a true example of discipline and focus. e work required to complete the requirements, on the timeline he did, while balancing all his other commitments, is truly impressive.”
In addition to C/Col Gerry’s recognition, Lt. Rachel Ambrose was honored with the Torch Award. is award is presented to the senior member mentor identified by the recipient as having the most signi cant impact on their achievement of the Spaatz Award.
Lt. Ambrose re ected on the honor, saying: “I am honored and humbled to have received this award. It has been a pleasure watching C/Col Gerry's growth in both Civil Air Patrol and his leadership skills.”
Capt. Joel Levy serves as public a airs o cer for the Union County Composite Squadron.
About Civil Air Patrol Civil Air Patrol is a congressionally chartered, federally funded 501c3 nonpro t corporation that serves as the civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force.
Packing & Unpacking
• Help deciding what stays and what goes
• Safely pack your belongings
• Unpacking and organizing
• Help with rehoming and donating items
Decluttering
• Simplify your living spaces
• Rotate wardrobes, decor and holiday items
• Create functional, clutterfree spaces
• Garage, basement and attic clean outs
Estate Sale Prep & Senior Transition Assistance
• Organize, stage, and sort items
• Help with cleaning and clearing out property
• Compassionate help for senior moving
your
Congressman Mark Harris presented Rafiee Gerry with the General Carl A. Spaatz Award, a high honor among Civil Air Patrol cadets. Photo by Cadet MSgt Lucas Chin
Charlotte-area volleyball teams win games in state playoffs
CHAPEL HILL – Marvin Ridge has reached the Final Four of the North Carolina High School Athletic Association’s 7A playoff bracket.
The Mavericks are the last team from southeast Mecklenburg and Union counties still playing in the state playo s. ey are scheduled to play Cox Mill on Oct. 28 in the regional nal.
Here is how each area team fared in the playo s:
2A
• No. 24 Queen's Grant lost to No. 9 South Stokes, 3-0, in the rst round.
3A
• No. 10 Union Academy lost to No. 6 Draughn, 3-1, in the fourth round. e Cardinals defeated No. 15 Trinity, 3-0, in the third round, No. 7 Patton, 3-1, in the
second round and No. 23 Madison, 3-0, in the rst round.
4A
• No. 20 Central Academy of Technology & Arts lost to No. 13 R-S Central, 3-0, in the rst round.
5A
• No. 8 Parkwood lost to No. 9 South Point, 3-0, in the second round. e Wolf Pack had a rst-round bye.
6A
• No. 8 Sun Valley lost to No. 9 Asheboro, 3-0, in the second round. e Spartans had a rst-round bye.
• No. 14 Piedmont lost to No. 3 Northern Guilford, 3-0, in the second round. e Panthers defeated No. 19 Williams, 3-1, in the rst round.
• No. 21 Charlotte Catholic lost to No. 5 Alexander Central, 3-1, in the second round.
e Cougars defeated No. 12 St. Stephens, 3-2, in the rst round.
7A
• No. 1 Marvin Ridge defeated No. 5 Reagan, 3-0, in the fourth round, No. 8 North Mecklenburg, 3-0, in the third round and No. 15 Davie County, 3-0, in the second round. e Mavericks had a rst-round bye.
• No. 4 Weddington lost to No. 5 Reagan, 3-1, in the third round. e Warriors defeated No. 13 Independence, 3-0, in the second round after a rst-round bye.
• No. 7 Cuthbertson lost to No. 10 Southwest Guilford, 3-1, in the second round after a rst-round bye.
• No. 13 Independence lost to No. 4 Weddington, 3-0, in the second round. e
Patriots defeated No. 20 McDowell, 3-1, in
the rst round.
• No. 14 Butler lost to No. 3 Grimsley, 3-0, in the second round. e Bulldogs defeated No. 19 West Cabarrus, 3-0, in the rst round.
• No. 24 Porter Ridge lost to No. 9 Hickory Ridge, 3-0, in the rst round.
8A
• No. 5 East Mecklenburg lost to No. 1 West Forsyth, 3-2, in the third round. e Eagles defeated No. 4 Northwest Guilford, 3-1, in the second round and No. 12 Providence, 3-1, in the rst round.
• No. 8 Myers Park lost to No. 1 West Forsyth, 3-0, in the second round. e Mustangs defeated No. 9 Pinecrest, 3-1, in the rst round.
• No. 12 Providence lost to No. 5 East Mecklenburg, 3-1, in the rst round.
Gemma’s Hope seeks to reach more grieving parents
CHARLOTTE – Gemma’s Hope will host the inaugural Hope Hour Gala, a relaxed semi-formal evening of remembrance, generosity and hope.
e Hope Hour Gala will bring guests together for an evening of signature cocktails, light bites and relaxed semi-formal elegance Nov. 22 at Sugar Creek Brewing. Guests can enjoy live entertainment and hear moving stories from families touched by Gemma’s Hope’s mission.
e night will also feature ways to give back, including a silent auction with one-ofa-kind items, a ra e and a wine and liquor
pull.
Money raised during the gala will fuel Gemma’s Hope’s expanding programs, which provide grief resources and comforting keepsakes to bereaved families in hospitals across the nation. With 72 hospitals currently on the waitlist, every contribution helps bring comfort and hope to families in their time of greatest need.
“ ere are so many hospitals in need of resources to support grieving families,” said Ally Shaw, executive director and mother to Gemma Hope Shaw, whom the organization is named after. “It breaks my heart to see
them struggle, and it makes me determined to do something about it.”
Buy tickets at gemmas-hope.com/ thehopehourgala.
Restaurants asked to join campaign
Gemma’s Hope is calling on restaurants to join its Cheers to Hope campaign Nov. 25 to Dec. 24.
Participating venues craft a specialty drink (cocktail, mocktail or something else) and donate a portion of proceeds to the nonprofit, which provides resources to hospitals for families grieving the death of a baby.
Cheers to Hope raised nearly $3,000 last year with the support of six local businesses. For 2025, the goal is even bigger: 20plus participating venues, 5,000-plus drinks served and $40,000 raised for grief resources to bereaved families.
“By joining Cheers to Hope, local venues not only showcase their creativity but also stand alongside families in their toughest moments,” volunteer Kyle Shaw said. “Every drink poured becomes part of a larger story of compassion.”
Sign up at gemmas-hope.com/ cheerstohopeclt.
Wildlife expert debunks myths about coyotes
WESLEY CHAPEL – Rupert Medford, a 19-year veteran with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, dispelled a lot of myths about coyotes during Community Conversations on Oct. 22 at Wesley Chapel Village Hall.
For starters, wolves run in packs, but coyotes do not.
“ ere is a certain time of year, however, where you could see a breeding pair with their pups,” Medford told an audience of about 70-area residents. “I’ve seen eight at one time, together.”
Medford said when the pups leave home, they go out in the world and mom and dad stay with them for a little while. When the parents feel the time is right, they encourage their pups to leave and create their own paths.
e coyote in North Carolina looks like the red wolf but is smaller. It has pointed and erect ears, and long and slender snouts. e average coyote is about two feet tall at the shoulder and four feet long.
“A coyote weighing 50 pounds is extremely rare,” Medford said. “ e average weight of a coyote is about 33 pounds as an adult.” e proliferation of coyotes in North Carolina began in the 1980s.
“At that time, coyotes were rare in the state.
By 1996, they occupied most of the state.
By the year 2000, they were basically everywhere,” Medford said. “Today, they occupy all of North Carolina.”
Coyotes are wary of people and easily run o by yelling at them or throwing a small object such as a tennis ball toward them. Spraying them with a water hose is also a successful method of keeping them away.
“Let them know they are unwelcome near your home,” Medford said, adding that it’s not in the coyotes’ nature to be aggressive toward humans and it doesn’t take much to scare them o .
“It’s extremely uncommon for coyotes to be aggressive toward humans unless the animal is rabid,” Medford said. “In North Carolina, there have only been four attacks on humans by coyotes during my career, and three of those were rabid.”
Coyotes are considered predators and have been known to go after cats. Medford suggests feeding pets indoors or if feeding them outside, remove the food bowl as soon as the pet is done eating.
“Coyotes are opportunistic,” he said. “ ey eat just about anything. One study found that 10% of their diet is trash.”
Homeowners should secure their garbage
The Salty expands in Charlotte
CHARLOTTE – The Salty has opened in Ballantyne following the success of its South End shop. The artisanal doughnut and coffee brand will soon open a Plaza Midwood shop, too.
Guests can expect the brand’s signature craft donuts, baked goods and recently launched cafe-style menu as well as its rotating seasonal o erings, including avors created speci cally for Charlotte.
“Charlotte has welcomed us with so much excitement since opening in South End, and we couldn’t be more grateful,” said Andy Rodriguez, CEO and co-founder. “From day one, we knew Charlotte had the energy, food culture and community vibe we look for when growing e Salty. Ballantyne and Plaza Midwood are both dynamic neighborhoods that re ect the city’s growth, and we’re excited to bring our donuts, co ee and vibes to even more locals this fall.”
e opening menu will feature highlights including:
Year-Round Flavors
• Traditional Glazed: 24-hour brioche with vanilla bean glaze
• Brown Butter & Salt cake donut: Vanilla bean cake donut, brown butter glaze and topped with Maldon Sea Salt
• Milk & Cookies: 24-hour brioche sweet cream glaze, hot fudge drizzle and topped with cocoa cookie crunch
• Honey Butter Cinnabun Donut: 24-hour brioche cinnabun donut dipped in a honey butter glaze
Seasonal Donuts
• Cookies & Cream Cake: Vanilla bean cake donut mixed with housemade Oreos, topped with a vanilla bean glaze and crushed housemade Oreos
• Pumpkin Roll: 24-hour brioche donut tossed in pumpkin spice sugar, layered with pumpkin cheesecake and a slice of our housemade classic pumpkin roll
• Butterscotch Crunch: 24-hour brioche, dipped in butterscotch glaze, topped with caramelized crispies, butterscotch mousse and a meringue tuile
• Toasted Banana Milk (gluten-free): Baked banana and brown sugar cake donut dipped in toasted milk glaze, topped with housemade banana-coated cereal and a dollop of maple mascarpone whipped cream
• Vegan Apple Crumb: Apple-cinnamon swirl vegan dough, apple cider glaze and nished with a housemade cinnamon crumb cake
Baked Goods + Grab & Go
• Everything Cragel: Bagel meets croissant. Housemade croissant rolled and shaped into a bagel, tossed in everything bagel seasoning.
• Ham & Cheese Croissant: Housemade buttered croissant with smoked ham and gruyere cheese
• Mixed Berry Greek Yogurt Parfait: Greek yogurt layered with housemade dark brown sugar granola, housemade berry preserve and a drizzle of Pure Clover Honey
• Dubai Chocolate Energy Bites: Dates, pistachios and cocoa, nished with a touch
cans with tight- tting lids. Do not attempt to feed or pet coyotes. If spotted, Medford said let the animal know it’s not welcome near your home by making loud noises, spraying it with a water hose or throwing a small object at the animal.
Coyotes do present some eco bene ts. “ ey’re killing stu we don’t want lots and lots of,” Medford said. “ e things that coyotes eat a lot of are mostly things we do not want more of – mice and rats.” Community Conversations are presented by the village’s events and programs committee. e free monthly presentation features a wide variety of topics, such as wildlife and nature. Jodi Livengood, of Guardian Ad Litem, will speak at the next program at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 5 at Wesley Chapel Village Hall. Visit ncwildlife.gov/species/coyote for more information about coyotes.
of sea salt and strawberry powder Breakfast + Lunch (available until 3 p.m.)
• Egg & Cheese Croissant: Sautéed seasoned eggs and mild cheddar cheese on e Salty homemade croissant
• Hot Honey Ricotta Toast: Whipped ricotta on e Salty 24-hour brioche toast, drizzled with Mike’s Hot Honey and olive oil, topped with toasted pistachios
• Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado mash on e Salty 24-hour brioche toast, topped
Want to go?
e Salty has locations in South End (1515 S. Tryon St., #105), Ballantyne (15120 Bowl St., Suite 101) and soon-to-open Plaza Midwood (1711 Commonwealth Ave., Suite 110).
Lily Haines, 8, was surprised by the texture of the coyote’s fur, noting that touching it was “really cool because it’s really soft.”
Rupert Medford, a biologist with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, dispelled a lot of myths surrounding coyotes during Community Conversations on Oct. 22 at Wesley Chapel Village Hall. The topic of coyotes drew about 70 people, the largest crowd to show for any topic thus far.
with avocado slices, red pepper akes and a drizzle of olive oil
• Hot Honey Chicken Salad Croissant Sandwich: Mike’s Hot Honey chicken salad and romaine lettuce layered inside e Salty’s toasted croissant
The Salty specializes in artisanal doughnuts and coffee. Photos courtesy of The Salty
LIVE MUSIC
‘The American Route’ rolls through Charlotte
e Album.”
CHARLOTTE – Sing-
er-songwriter Sam Barber will continue his live schedule with “The American Route.”
The U.S. headline tour includes stops at Fire y Distillery in North Charleston, S.C., on May 15; Red Hat Amphitheater in Raleigh on June 4; and Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre in Charlotte on June 5. With more than 2 billion global streams to date, Barber claimed his space in the country spotlight with the breakout success of his RIAA Gold-certified 2024 debut album, “Restless Mind.” e 28-song album is highlighted by singles such as “Straight and Narrow,” “Better Year” and “Indigo.”
Last year also saw Barber’s “Tear Us Apart” among the standout tracks featured on the soundtrack, “Twisters:
Barber kept his momentum going this year with his new EP, “Music for the Soul,” available now via Lockeland Springs/Atlantic Records. e EP sees Barber chronicling how he got here and where he’s headed next. Visit sambarberlive.com or sambarbermusic.com for ticket information.
Oct. 31
• Coyote Joe’s: Out of the Blue
• Middle C Jazz: Brandon Stevens
• Moochies Tavern: Next O’ Kin
• Neighborhood eatre: Chaparelle
• Shep’s Bar & Grill: Traxx
Music
• The Trail House: Randomonium
• Visulite: Pretending
Nov. 1
• Coyote Joe’s: Chase
Matthew
• Great Wagon Road Distilling: Sweet Talkin’ Johnny
• Middle C Jazz: Brian
Simpson
• Neighborhood eatre:
Nick Shoulders
• Shep’s Bar & Grill: Jam
Central
• Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre: Giveon
• Stooges Pub & Grub:
News at 11:00
• Stumptown Station:
Dustin Yager
• The Trail House:
Randomonium
• The Underground: Loathe
• Visulite: Tattoo You
• Waxhaw Taphouse: Jammin T Band
Nov. 2
• Middle C Jazz: Brian Simpson
CLASSIFIEDS
Product Owner-Agile, F/T at Truist Bank (Charlotte, NC) In the Scaled Agile Framework, partners w/ product managers to balance business, technology & dsgn priorities to deliver brand-defining product & service exp. Work will span the entire delivery process; from assisting w/ identification of areas for improvement, to more detailed work in authoring user stories, working closely w/ tech’l leads/ scrum teams to ensure the solution effectively addresses exp priorities while maintaining tech’l integrity, & overseeing tactical execution of efforts. Must have Bach’s deg in Comp Sci, Comp Engg, Electrical/ Electronic Engg, or other tech’l field. Must have 5 yrs of progressive exp in product analyst or consulting positions w/in the banking &/or fin’l services industry performing/ utilizing the following: leading cross functional teams, working as a Product Owner for Agile team(s); managing concurrent projects in a fast-based, results-driven environment, defining & delivering large-scale business initiatives to execute on a product roadmap, incl stakeholder mgmt, reqmts elicitation, test planning/ support & business-level product validation; demonstrating tech’l acumen & working w/ the technology organization to align product & technology roadmaps; translating strategic plans into tactical daily actions for execution; interpreting data & trends, diagnosing problems, & recommending action plans to resolve issues; Pricing of FX products: Spot, Forward, NDF, SWAPS, Time Deposits & Options; implmtn & validation of Trade workflow & Life cycle for Front Office, Middle Office & Back Office (BO) Operations; Validation of Confirmation matching for both Incoming & Outgoing Swift Confirmations. (MT300, MT305, MT306); For BO validations on Wall Street Systems, generating Payment messages incl DDA, Fedwire & Swift Payment (MT103, MT202, MT202Cov, MT192, MT292, MT940, MT950) & validation of the message workflow queue movements for sending
Why?
the Swift Payments; Implmtn & Validation of Intraday/Real Time trade reporting to DTCC from System of Records for SPOT, Forwards, Swaps, NDF & Options like Vanilla, Asian, Exotic options like Knock-in, knock-out, Single barrier, Double Barrier & Digitals; Implmtn, Validation & reporting of the Realtime (RT), RT PET, Trade State messages reporting to DTCC via MQ in XML/csv message format; working w/: Rally, JIRA, Splunk, & SQL; Agile Methodology; FX Trade Lifecycle, eCommerce, Electronic Trading, Confirmations & Settlements, Acctg & Reconciliation of Books & Records, EOD operations & Reports generation & validation, PnL & MTM files generation & Validation; Trading Platforms: Wall Street Systems, Aphelion eFX, FXall, 360T, Bloomberg; Swap Dealer Regulations; Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFDC), European Securities & Markets Authority (ESMA); Fin’l Conduct Authority (FCA); & Ontario Securities Commission (OSC); & Cross Border & Domestic Payment Modalities, incl SWIFT, Fedwire, automated ACH payments. Apply online (https:// careers.truist.com/) or email resume to: recruitment@truist.com. (Ref Job# R0107367)
SEO Specialist (Charlotte, NC)
SEO(Search Engine Optimization) Specialist develops and implements effective search engine optimization strategies to improve the restaurant’s online visibility, attract potential customers, and enhance brand awareness. Requires a blend of creative design sensibilities to optimize our digital content effectively. Collaborate with the marketing & culinary teams to develop high-quality content, such as blog posts, menu descriptions, & promotional materials, that resonate with our target audience and adhere to SEO best practices. 40hrs/wk, Offered wage: $48,547/yr, Associate’s Degree in Arts or related required. Resume to UNC KQ, LLC Attn: James Park, 9605 N Tryon ST, STE H, Charlotte, NC 28262
Public Information Meeting
A Public Information Meeting / Neighborhood Awareness Meeting has been scheduled by the owner of Parcels 137102-10 and 137-102-03, a non-profit organization, that a conditional zoning request has been submitted a for the above-mentioned parcel, which is located next to the Shiloh Truelight Church.
This property spans approximately 29 acres and is currently zoned for Single-Family Residential use. This meeting will introduce the project, receive concerns, and answer any questions from the community.
When?
November 6, 2025 - Thursday evening
Time? 5:00-7:00 PM (EST)
Where?
8614 Truelight Church Road
• The Fillmore: Steel Panther
• e Underground: e Happy Fits
Nov. 3
• Evening Muse: Open Mic
• Neighborhood eatre: xsomch
Nov. 4
• Amos’ Southend: Vincent Lima
• Evening Muse: Open Mic
• The Fillmore: Sasha Colby
• e Underground: Pouya
Nov. 5
• Evening Muse: Mike Farris
• Neighborhood eatre: French Police
• Spectrum Center: Jonas Brothers
• e Trail House: Judson Terrell
• e Underground: e Wrecks Inside
Nov. 6
• Middle C Jazz: Mo Mon-
ey Max
• Neighborhood eatre: AJ Lee & Blue Summit
• e Fillmore: Ski Mask the Slump God
• e Underground: JMSN VENUES
Charlotte
• Amos’ Southend: 1423 S. Tryon St.
• Coyote Joe’s: 4621
Wilkinson Blvd.
• Evening Muse: 3227 N. Davidson St.
• Middle C Jazz: 300 S. Brevard St.
• Neighborhood eatre: 511 E. 36th St.
• Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre: 1000 NC Music Factory Blvd.
• Spectrum Center: 333 E. Trade St.
• The Fillmore: 820 Hamilton St.
e Underground: 820 Hamilton St. • Visulite: 1615 Elizabeth Ave.
• Juniper Grill, 15235 John J. Delaney Drive – 93.5
• QuikTrip, 10910 Golf Links Drive –
Blumenthal Arts renovates Founders Room at Belk Theater
CHARLOTTE – Blumenthal Arts is offering exclusive access to the renovated Founders Room at Belk Theater to those seeking a special night at the theater.
Tucked away just steps from the main entrance, the VIP lounge provides a re ned retreat to gather with friends, enjoy a quiet moment before the show and soak in the distinctive atmosphere of the performing arts venue.
“ e Founders Room gives our guests a way to make an evening at the theater even more memorable,” said Tom Gabbard, president and CEO of Blumenthal Arts. “From the moment guests arrive, we want every detail to re ect the care and thoughtfulness that goes into every production. is renovation is one more way to make a night out unforgettable.”
e lounge has been completely reimagined, with design led by designbar in collaboration with Claris Design Build. Spanning 2,200 square feet, the Art Deco-inspired space features sleek, contemporary furnishings and dramatic custom lighting. Renovations began in June and were completed just in time for the opening of “Wicked” on Sept. 24.
Founders Room guests are greeted with a complimentary glass of sparkling wine upon arrival and can enjoy light snacks, a cash bar with top-shelf spirits and ne wines, and access to private restrooms throughout the evening. e design emphasizes comfort and connection, o ering multiple lounge areas and intimate seating arrangements.
Passholders have access to the lounge before performances and during intermission for most Broadway productions at Belk eater, 130 N. Tryon St. Guests can gain entry by joining the Blumenthal Arts Producer’s Circle, which provides year-round entry and additional donor bene ts, or by adding lounge access to their performance ticket. Add-on access is available without membership but limited and o ered on a rst-come, rst-served basis.
“As Blumenthal continues to grow, we’re looking for thoughtful ways to deepen the overall experience,” Gabbard said. “Spaces like the Founders Room honor our loyal patrons while inviting new guests to see why Charlotte’s arts scene is one of the most dynamic in the country.”
On the web: blumenthalarts.org
Carolina Theatre announces Christmas at The Carolina schedule Carolina Theatre announces Christmas at The Carolina schedule
– The newly restored Carolina Theatre is going all in on festivities for Christmas with a monthlong schedule of movies, live music, world-premiere productions and the Muppets.
“ e holidays are a time when we gather together as families, as friends, as fellow Charlotteans to celebrate the joy and good among us all,” said Jared Misner, the Carolina eatre’s communications director. “It’s a gift to be able to once again spread joy throughout Charlotte, the city that never gave up on us. is series is a gift back to our beloved city.”
Starting on Nov. 22 with Campana Sobre Campana: “Christmas in Mexico,” Christmas at e Carolina stretches for more than a month, ending on Dec. 23 with a showing of 2003’s perennial Christmas favorite, “Elf.”
Along the way, the Carolina eatre will present classic Christmas lms like “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “Miracle on 34th Street” and live music from the likes of Robert Earl Keen on his “Greatest Christmas on Earth” tour and a special collaboration between the Charlotte Youth Choir and e Bergamot for A South Shore Christmas, a mix of holiday classics and original songs.
In addition, the Carolina eatre will present two world-premiere productions: “Franklin Presents: My Christmas,” a retelling of “A Charlie Brown Christmas” from the point
of view of Franklin, the Peanuts’ only Black character, and “A Sainted Christmas Carol: Iced Scrooge,” a retelling of the Charles Dickens classic from “America’s Got Talent” nalists Sainted Trap Choir as it transforms the story into a trap-soul celebration. e schedule for the Carolina eatre’s Christmas at e Carolina is below.
• Nov. 22, 8 p.m.: Campana Sobre Campana: “Christmas in Mexico”
• Dec. 5, 8 p.m.: Mark and Maggie O’Connor’s “An Appalachian Christmas”
• Dec. 22, 7 p.m.: “Miracle on 34th Street” (1947)
• Dec. 23, 7 p.m.: “Elf”
Buy tickets for each event at eCarolina.com or in person at the guest services desk.
• Free Consultation: No-obligation meeting to discuss your needs
• Staging & Pricing: Each item is displayed and priced for maximum value
• Professional Marketing: Broad exposure through advanced marketing and social media
• Debris Removal: Before and after the sale
• Personalized, Professional Service: Custom plans handled by our experienced, insured, and bonded team.
Why
Choose
Us:
We provide expert staging, immaculate presentation, and respectful, community-minded service. We’ve earned a reputation for integrity and exceptional results. Visit our website for more information.
Meck Connect is roads with more sidewalks, crosswalks, and enhanced intersections. It’s also smart tra c signals to help ease congestion. There’s 50% more bus service, 15-minute frequency on busy routes, and 18 new Microtransit zones for on-demand pickup. And there’s 43 miles of new rail, including access to the airport.
Blumenthal Arts completed renovations to the Founders Room at Belk Theater just before the opening of “Wicked” on Sept. 24. Matt Chandler photos
