The 11-07-2025 Edition of The Charlotte Weekly Matthews-Mint Hill
by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com
MATTHEWS – The Town of Matthews is applying for nearly $1.9 million in grants through the Charlotte Regional Transportation Planning Organization for two federal-aid highway projects.
One project would realign the intersection of Hargett Road at Sam Newell Road near Crown Point Elementary School. e other project would add a 10-foot sidepath along
a stretch of Monroe Road, from Bojangles to the Family Dollar Distribution Center.
e Matthews Board of Commissioners approved staff recommendations Oct. 27 to meet the Oct. 31 application deadline, but members expressed concern about local matches.
Hargett Road intersection
Hargett Road meets Sam Newell Road at an angle, making for awkward movements for drivers turning left or entering the Crown
MATTHEWS – Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts is bringing back “Scrooge! The Musical” for its fourth year, from Dec. 12 to 21.
Set in 19th-century London, “Scrooge! e Musical” brings Charles Dickens's “A Christmas Carol” to life with an award-winning score by Leslie Bricusse and songs like “Father Christmas,” “December the 25th” and “ ank You Very Much.”
is musical adaptation (directed by Mary Lynn Bain) tells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge (played by Korey Risley), an old man who despises Christmas and lives a life of isolation, treating his underpaid clerk, Bob Cratchit (Bradley Wolke), with cold indi erence.
On Christmas Eve, Scrooge is visited by the ghost of his former business partner, Jacob Marley (Silas Fincher), along with three spirits: the Ghosts of Christmas Past (Mary Elizabeth Johnson), Present (Mike Carroll) and Future (Leighton Stall and Charlotte omson).
The spirits reveal the consequences of Scrooge's sel shness, including the struggles of the Cratchit family, led by Mrs. Cratchit (Hannah Marks) and her ailing young son, Tiny Tim (Tobey Fincher).
Additional ensemble members bring the
By Gina Hoover Contributor
Editor’s note: Commissioner Gina Hoover submitted this story before Election Day. Unofficial voting results occurred after e Weekly’s deadline. Visit www.thecharlotteweekly.com for election coverage.
Gina Hoover
I would like to address the so-called "Investigation Report" and to extend my gratitude to everyone who has reached out with their questions, as well as to those who fully understand the true nature of this report. ank you for your support in recognizing that this is nothing more than a political "hit" job and an instance of campaign
Want to go?
holiday show to life, supported by the music direction of Lauren Smith and choreography by Anna Eve.
Remaining cast
Mr. Fezziwig: Ben Shelton
Mrs. Fezziwig: Kristina Blake
Isabel/Helen: Emily Calder Moore
Young Scrooge/Nephew: Liam Escalante
Tom Jenkins: Julia Vanella
Kathy Cratchit: Netéyah Boyle
Martha Cratchit: Margot Meyers
Belinda Cratchit: Bella Rodriguez Hunter
Peter Cratchit: Titus Wong
Young Marley/Topper: Ben Allen
Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts presents “Scrooge! e Musical” from Dec. 12 to 21 at 100 McDowell St., Matthews.
Matthews Playhouse will o er a “pay what you can” performance at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 11, bene ting the Women's Health and Resilience Foundation Inc.
Buy tickets at matthewsplayhouse.com or by calling 704-846-8343.
Young Ebby/Phantom/Ensemble: Tristan Tully
interference, what one individual aptly referred to as the old "October surprise."
It is no secret that Mayor John Higdon and commissioners Renee Garner, Ken McCool and John Urban harbor a deep animosity towards me. When this process began, it was clear that the intention was to shift the blame onto me or Commissioner Mark Tofano. I requested a phone call with Town Attorney Daniel Peterson to discuss the investigation procedure, but he did not respond. e claim that I would not respond to a public records request is inaccurate. I cannot provide records that I do not possess.
e investigation was prompted by a constituent recording in which this individual asked Mayor Higdon why he referred to police ofces as "rats." I expressed a desire to our town
Matthews applies for transportation grants
someone died in a crash.
Point Elementary School entrance. “ e intersection and the school driveway are offset,” Transportation Planner Dana Stoogenke said. “ ey don’t line up appropriately, and it makes tra c there very difcult, especially for a.m. drop-o and p.m. dismissal.”
Town Engineer Susan Habina-Woolard explained in a memo that Sam Newell Road is part of a high-injury network outlined in the Vision Zero Action Plan and that there’s a curve just past the intersection where
Monroe Road sidepath Town engineers saw an opportunity to close a sidewalk gap along Monroe Road near the Charlotte border. ey want to add a 10-foot sidepath that would extend from Bojangles to the Family Dollar Distribution Center in front of the
‘Scrooge! The Musical’ returns with new lead and director
Jen/Phantom/Ensemble: Alice Fincher
Punch and Judy Woman/Ensemble: Tracy
Stinson
Teacher/Pringle/Ensemble: Matt Diem
Mrs. Dilber/Ensemble: Robin Canchola
Mary Dilber/Ensemble: Sam Zierler
Turkey Girl/Ensemble: Lilly Crowgey
Bess/Ensemble: Samantha Davidman
Ensemble: Tre Canchola
Ensemble: Janine D’Andrea
Ensemble: Jordan Hartley
Ensemble: Elle Hutton
Ensemble: Aisley Rushing
Ensemble: Audrey Schlieper
Ensemble: Kiara Sepulveda
Ensemble: Milana Serova
Ensemble: Lizzy Shelton
Ensemble: Camden Stinson
Ensemble: Lina Zierler
Hoover responds to investigation report
attorney, Daniel Peterson, to allow the State Bureau of Investigation to investigate the allegations being made. However, our town attorney, Daniel Peterson, advised against that. I cannot recall the mayor ever calling police o cers "rats." and I would have stood by him 100% because there are certain values of right and wrong.
As an elected o cial, it is my responsibility to protect the citizens of Matthews, not developers. is report addresses an email I sent to Mr. Jackson, an elderly gentleman whose backyard was slated to be turned into a two-lane road. Some town o cials claimed that the road had been dedicated, but in reality, it had not. According to the North Carolina State Bar's Rule
by Justin Vick
MATTHEWS – Stumptown Park continues to attract cultural experiences like the Festival of India and Ciao Italia Matthews. The downtown park will soon host the Romanian-American Cultural Festival. e rst-time festival will take place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 15.
“I always wanted to create something to bring together Romanian and American communities and to share traditions, culture, food, music and dance,” Bianca Terejanu, of Hex5, told Matthews commissioners Oct. 27.
Terejanu’s event will o er four food trucks: two American, one Italian and one Romanian. e Romanian food truck will sell a popular dish called Mititei, which consists of grilled ground meat sausages.
Terejanu explained to commissioners that the dish is often paired with beer. at’s why she sought permission to serve alcohol at the park. She’s working with Divine Barrel Brewing and Seaboard Brewing.
“We will try to contain everything in the park,” Terejanu said. “We'll put up clear signage, ‘no alcohol outside the park.’ We will create a small area with tables where people can eat and drink.”
Commissioners approved her request 6-1. Leon reatt was the only commissioner to oppose the measure. reatt explained he does not support the purchase of alcohol on town property, but he planned to attend the festival. The Romanian-American Cultural Festival will o er more than food. Festivalgoers can hear Romanian music and get the opportunity to join a traditional folk dance known as the hora. Terejanu said it’s a circle dance where you hold hands. ere will also be an area at the park with artisanal products for sale. One vendor will sell soaps with the Romanian ag. Organizations such as the Matthews Heritage Museum, Dream Weavers of Matthews and International House will participate in the festival.
The Matthews Playhouse production of “Scrooge! The Musical” has become a Christmas tradition. This scene is from last year’s production. Photos courtesy of Matthews Playhouse
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NEWS BRIEFS
BUSINESS BRIEFS
Nationwide Mortgage Bankers welcomes EVP
CHARLOTTE
– Nationwide Mortgage Bankers has appointed industry veteran Traci Harding as executive vice president of credit risk and product development.
Traci Harding
Harding brings over 25 years of mortgage experience to NMB’s growing Charlotte team.
Harding will be based at NMB’s new Southeast operations center at 11121 Carmel Commons Blvd., where the company has grown to 40 processors, underwriters and loan o cers since moving into the space this past summer. NMB is establishing additional o ces along the Interstate 485 corridor, part of a larger expansion that has seen the company open 12 new locations across the country so far this year.
Harding served as senior vice president, director of credit risk and loan quality at Movement Mortgage.
Bank of America commits $250M to fight hunger
CHARLOTTE – Bank of America announced a $250 million, veyear commitment to address food insecurity and other basic needs across the U.S.
e investment expands the company’s long-term support for more than 1,200 nonpro ts focused on hunger relief. As part of this initiative, $5 million will go to nearly 100 organizations meeting urgent local food needs.
Bank of America employees plan to volunteer more than 100,000 hours between now and the end of the year to assist organizations focused on hunger relief and other critical services. Bank of America will also match employee contributions, dollar for dollar, to organizations focused on combating hunger in the communities it serves.
Gun found at Monroe Middle School
MONROE – e Monroe Police Department is investigating an unloaded handgun found Oct. 29 at Monroe Middle School.
Police said the school received a tip Oct. 29 that an eighth-grader was possibly in possession of a vape device. While checking for the vape, sta discovered the student had an unloaded handgun.
School o cials noti ed the school resource o cer. Police said the SRO responded promptly, ensuring the situation was safely contained.
Police said at no time were any students or sta threatened. No injuries occurred from the incident.
The Monroe Police Department is working with school o cials to determine how the rearm came into the student’s possession.
Monroe man faces child exploitation charges
MONROE – e Monroe Police Department has arrested a Monroe man on child exploitation charges following a monthlong investigation.
e investigation began one month ago after the department received a CyberTipline report.
e Monroe Police Department worked collaboratively on the case with Homeland Security Investigations, the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation and the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
ey conducted digital and eld investigations that culminated in the execution of a search warrant Oct. 30 at a Manchester Avenue home.
Police arrested Matthew William Gaylord, 44, on charges of rst-, second- and third-degree sexual exploitation of a minor, secret peeping and possession of methamphetamine. ey placed him in Union County Jail.
“ is case demonstrates the importance of strong partnerships between local, state and federal agencies in protecting children and holding o enders accountable,” Chief William Bolen said. “We are grateful for the continued collaboration with HSI, SBI and the ICAC Task Force.”
CMS hosts Endless Possibilities Expo
CHARLOTTE – Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools aimed to empower families with the information they need to make informed decisions during the Endless Possibilities Expo: Exploring Education Options at CMS.
e second annual event was open to families and students from pre-K through 12th grade across Mecklenburg County on Oct. 25 and Nov. 1 at e Park Expo, 2500 E. Independence Blvd.
e expo helped families understand the choice program pathways and options that
Golden Corral honors veterans with free dinner
CHARLOTTE – Golden Corral will host its 25th annual Military Appreciation Night on Nov. 11, offering a free dinner buffet and beverage to all active-duty military, veterans, retirees, reservists and guardsmen from 4 p.m. to close.
e restaurant is also continuing its partnership with Disabled American Veterans, encouraging guests to donate or round up purchases to support disabled veterans and their families.
Golden Corral has served nearly 6.7 million free meals and raised over $20 million for veterans nationwide since 2001.
Bojangles debuts new Smothered Steak Biscuit
CHARLOTTE – Bojangles is serving up comfort with its new Smothered Steak Biscuit, available for a limited time.
The sandwich features a country-fried steak topped with Southern sausage gravy on a made-fromscratch buttermilk biscuit.
“Country fried steak is a Southern delicacy, especially when served on one of our u y buttermilk biscuits,” said Marshall Scarborough, vice president of menu and culinary innovation.
On the web: bojangles.com
Charlotte Area Chamber events
CHARLOTTE – The Charlotte Area Chamber of Commerce hosts a ribbon cutting and women’s programming.
• e Women in Business group presents “ e Marketing Race: How Early & Consistent Branding Wins Every Time” from 8 to 10 a.m. Nov. 13 at the NASCAR Hall of Fame, 400 E. M.L.K. Jr. Blvd., Charlotte. Members pay $10. Others pay $25. Register in advance.
• Members celebrate the grand
CMS o ers. It also gave families insight into college and career pathways through participation through key partners and exhibitors.
e CMS School Choice Lottery window is open now through Dec. 5.
Habitat to ‘Rock the Block’ in Matthews MATTHEWS – Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity is calling on volunteers to join its Rock the Block event from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 8 in the Winding Trail neighborhood.
Rock the Block brings together the community to complete minor exterior projects such as painting, seasonal lawn maintenance, mowing, planting and pressure washing.
“Rock the Block brings neighbors together to care for one another and their community,” said Natisha Rivera, president and CEO of Greater Matthews Habitat. “It’s a visible reminder of what can happen when people come together with a shared goal of keeping Matthews a place where everyone can a ord to live.”
Volunteers must be at least 16 years old. Volunteers under 18 must have a waiver signed by a parent or guardian to volunteer. Tools, equipment and lunch will be provided.
Register by Nov. 5 at gmhfh.org/RTBVolunteer. Email Liz Sweeney, volunteer and engagement manager, at liz@habitatmatthews.org for details.
Quick Hits
• Marvin Ridge defeated D.H. Conley, 3-1, to win the 7A State Championship in volleyball Oct. 31 at Lawrence Joel Veteran's Memorial Coliseum.
• Socrates Academy recently celebrated the opening of its Upper School at 3909 Weddington Road, Matthews.
• Mac’s Speed Shop will serve a complimentary meal to veterans on Nov. 11 at Mac’s locations across the Carolinas.
• Autobell Car Wash will o er U.S. military veterans and active-duty service members a free Ride- ru Exterior wash, or an equivalent credit toward another wash option Nov. 11 at all Autobell locations in the Carolina.
• e MInt Hill Police Department announced that former K-9s Rambo and Valor passed away a few months after retiring this year.
• WIXE The Mighty 93.1FM and 1190AM recognized Zach Charles, of the Union County Sheri ’s O ce, as Deputy of the Month for October.
• K9 Atlas joined Cpl. Stanley on the road recently for the Pineville Police Department.
• e Charlotte Fire Department promoted Kevin Carr to battalion chief and Luke Karagias, Cody Whiteside and Nick Shriner to captains.
opening of MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes Uptown with a ribbon cutting from 11 a.m. to noon Nov. 13 at 210 E. Trade St., Suite B234, Charlotte. e ribbon will be cut at 11:30 a.m. Register in advance. Visit charlotteareachamber.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Matthews Area Chamber events
MATTHEWS – e Matthews Area Chamber of Commerce hosts a business luncheon.
• Julie Blum, client engagement director for CarolinaPEO, presents “HR 101: Building a Strong Foundation for Your Business,” during the Monthly Chamber Business Luncheon from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 12 at Christ Covenant Church, 800 Fullwood Lane, Matthews. Members pay $20 in advance (up to 24 hours before the luncheon) and $25 up to the day of the event. Others pay $25. Register in advance. Visit matthewschamber.org to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Mint Hill Chamber events
MINT HILL – The Mint Hill Chamber of Commerce hosts a football outing, business luncheon and after-hours networking.
• Members bond over NFL football during Carolinas Chamber Day from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 9 at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte. e event includes breakfast, networking and a ticket to the Carolina Panthers vs. New Orleans Saints game. Register in advance.
• Fire Chief David Leath talks about re safety and Terry Aaseby, of Terry V. Aaseby CPA, PLLC, talks about tax implications of recent legislation during the Monthly Member Luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 11 at Olde Sycamore Golf Plantation, 7500 Olde Sycamore
Drive, Mint Hill. Members pay $18. Others pay $24. Register in advance.
• Members network during Business After Hours from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Nov. 12 at Carolina Hemp Company, 11205 Lawyers Road, Unit B, Mint Hill. Register in advance. Visit minthillchamberofcommerce.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Pineville NC Chamber events PINEVILLE – e Pineville NC Chamber of Commerce hosts morning networking.
• Members network at the Chamber Monthly Co ee and Roundtable Discussion from 8 to 9:30 a.m. Nov. 12 at Hilton Garden Inn Charlotte Pineville, 425 Towne Centre Blvd., Pineville. Register in advance. Visit pinevillencchamber.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Union County Chamber events MONROE – e Union County Chamber of Commerce celebrates a pair of member milestones and hosts a luncheon with lawmakers.
• Members celebrate the grand opening of Hays Dentistry with a ribbon cutting from 3 to 3:30 p.m. Nov. 7 at 1002 Aspinal St., Suite C, Waxhaw. Register in advance.
• Union County lawmakers discuss legislative updates during the Public Policy Luncheon: General Assembly from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 12 at the Union County Agricultural Center, 3230-D Presson Road, Monroe. Members pay $25. Others pay $40. Register in advance.
• Members celebrate the relocation of Sodoma Law Union with a ribbon cutting from 4:30 to 5 p.m. Nov. 13 at 111 W. Franklin St., Monroe. Register in advance. Visit unioncountycoc.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
15 area football teams to play in state playoffs
CHAPEL HILL – Fifteen football teams in southern Mecklenburg and Union counties have qualified for the state playoffs.
e North Carolina High School Athletic Association released playo brackets on Nov. 2, featuring eight classi cations for the rst time. First-round games kick o Nov. 7, though six area teams will have a rst-round bye. Subsequent rounds will be played every Friday until the nals on Dec. 11 to 13.
3A
• No. 19 Union Academy plays No. 14 Owen in the rst round. e winner plays No. 3 Eastern Randolph.
5A
• No. 8 Monroe has a first-round bye. The Redhawks play either No. 9 West Rowan or No. 24 Southern
Guilford.
• No. 11 Forest Hills plays No. 22 Smoky Mountain in the rst round. e winner plays No. 6 Franklin.
6A
• No. 5 Sun Valley has a rst-round bye. e Spartans play either No. 12 Olympic or No. 21 Ragsdale.
• No. 8 Charlotte Catholic has a first-round bye. e Cougars play either No. 9 A.C. Reynolds or No. 24 South Caldwell.
7A
• No. 2 Weddington has a rst-round bye. e Warriors play either No. 15 Marvin Ridge or No. 18 Chapel Hill.
• No. 3 Independence has a rst-round bye. e Patriots play either No. 14 Page or No. 19 McDowell.
• No. 11 Porter Ridge plays No. 22 Cuthbertson in the rst round. e
winner plays No. 6 Richmond Senior.
• No. 13 Butler plays No. 20 Hopewell in the rst round. e winner plays No. 4 Mooresville.
• No. 15 Marvin Ridge plays No. 18 Chapel Hill in the rst round. e winner plays No. 2 Weddington.
8A
• No. 3 Myers Park has a first-round bye. The Mustangs play either No. 6 Pinecrest or No. 11 Chambers.
• No. 7 Providence plays No. 10 Ardrey Kell in the rst round. e winner plays No. 2 West Charlotte.
• No. 8 South Mecklenburg plays No. 9 Palisades in the rst round. e winner plays No. 1 Hough.
• No. 10 Ardrey Kell plays No. 7 Providence in the rst round. e winner plays No. 2 West Charlotte.
Women’s tennis players win state titles
CHAPEL HILL -- Stu-
dent-athletes from Ballantyne Ridge, Charlotte Catholic and Myers Park have won state championships in women’s tennis.
For the first time, the North Carolina High School Athletic Association crowned champions in eight classi cations.
Here is how teams from southeastern Mecklenburg County and Union County did in the playo s.
6A
• Ella Davis and Madison McWilliams of Charlotte Catholic won the doubles state championship with Vita Varney/Milly Williams of J.H. Rose, 6-0, 6-1, in the rst round; Zada Meachem/ Zola Meachem of Berry, 6-2, 6-1, in the second round; and Larson Berry/Abby Talton of Watauga, 6-0, 6-2, in the championship.
• Carla Perezgrovas of Charlotte Catholic reached the second round of the 6A
singles bracket after defeating Chloe Yount of J.H. Rose, 6-1, 6-0, in the rst round.
7A
• Juliana Andrea Castellanos Trujillo of Ballantyne Ridge won the singles state championship with victories over Nicole Ryan of Cardinal Gibbons, 6-0, 6-0, in the rst round; Lina LaVigne of New Bern, 6-2, 6-3, in the second round; and Kylie Ryan of Cardinal Gibbons, 6-2, 6-0, in the championship.
• Eleri Pratiknjo and Riona Ray of Marvin Ridge reached the doubles state championship game with victories over Jenna Navarro/Emma Cheek of Cardinal Gibbons, 2-6, 6-2, 6-0, in the first round; and Bintu Kamara/Ashby Gansman of Page, 6-1, 6-2, in the second round.
• Evie Kayes and Mariana Cuebas of Weddington were among eight duos to qualify for the 7A doubles bracket.
• Eva Tiwan of Ballantyne Ridge was among eight
players to qualify for the 7A singles bracket.
8A
• Teagan Reilly and Lila Cheatwood of Myers Park won the doubles state championship with victories over Samantha Barnes/Omisha Sinha of Panther Creek, 6-1, 6-1, in the rst round; Carson Margulies/Camryn Dysart of Millbrook, 6-2, 6-3, in the second round; and Natasha Wallace/Vivian Wu of Providence, 6-2, 6-4, in the championship.
• Natasha Wallace and Vivian Wu of Providence reached the doubles state championship game with victories over Brianna Stewart/ Ella Smith of Green Hope, 7-6 [7-1], 6-4; and Avrie Helm/Cohlsan Wortham of Millbrook, 6-3, 6-2, in the second round.
• Kate McLaughlin of East Mecklenburg was among eight players to qualify for the 8A singles bracket.
Charlotte-area men’s soccer teams qualify for state playoffs
CHAPEL HILL – Teams across the Matthews-Mint Hill, South Charlotte and Union County areas have qualified for the men’s soccer state playoffs. e North Carolina High School Athletic Association released brackets for the Men's Soccer Playo s on Nov. 2.
First-round games start Nov. 4, followed by the second round Nov. 6, third round Nov. 10, fourth round Nov. 13, regional round Nov. 18 and nals Nov. 20 to 22. e 8A playo schedule di ers slightly: the regional round is Nov. 13 and teams have a bye Nov. 18.
2A
• No. 11 Queen’s Grant plays No. 22 Avery County in the rst round. e winner plays No. 6 Murphy in the second round.
3A
• No. 4 Union Academy has a rst-round bye. e Cardinals play either No. 13 Hendersonville or No. 20 Wheatmore in the second round.
4A
• No. 12 Central Academy of Technology & Arts plays No. 21 South Rowan in the rst round. e winner plays No. 5 Lincoln Charter in the second round.
5A
• No. 22 Parkwood plays No. 11 Atkins in the rst round. e winner plays No. 6 Forestview in the second round.
• No. 15 Monroe plays No. 18 Carson in the rst round. e winner plays No. 2 East Lincoln in the second round.
6A
• No. 2 Charlotte Catholic has a rstround bye. e Cougars play either No. 15 Dudley or No. 18 Sun Valley in the second round.
TRANSPORTATION GRANTS from 1A
Gander Cove tra c signal.
“We have a gap that’s much larger,” Stoogenke said. “It goes all the way down to the QT gas station further toward N.C. 51. We can’t a ord to go that far down, so the next logical terminus would be at this intersection where the light is, where we could create a multi-use path, then get pedestrians and bicyclists across at the signal.”
A memo from Habina-Woolard explained that the speed and volume of tra c along Monroe Road is uncomfortable for pedestrians and bicyclists traveling through a worn grass path.
Habina-Woolard also noted that sta didn’t prioritize this project in the past because the sidewalk gap would have been addressed with the LYNX Silver Line light rail project. Sta has renewed interest in xing the sidewalk gap ever since Charlotte-area leaders did not include the Silver Line to Matthews in the 2055 Transit System Plan.
HOOVER from 1A
of Professional Conduct, it is the attorney's duty to clarify what information is con dential. Since I shared an email, from our former town attorney, that was not neither marked as con dential nor privileged, our town attorney, Daniel Peterson, has concluded I have disclosed closed session minutes. If our town attorney, Daniel Peterson, believes that this situation represents a violation, I will accept this as a badge of honor. Why? Aside from Commissioner Tofano, no one on this current board, excluding Commissioner Leon reatt who was not on the board, took the time to speak with Mr. Jackson about a road being built just 50 feet from his bedroom window. Just because town o cials claim that the road had been dedicated doesn't necessarily make it true.
Nothing criminal has occurred, and no state statute has been violated. is report is based on selective testimony, primarily from the four commissioners who harbor deep animosity toward me, raising concerns about bias and fairness. On the night of the vote to proceed with an investigation, Commissioner Renee Garner can be seen clapping her
• No. 18 Sun Valley plays No. 15 Dudley in the rst round. e winner plays No. 2
Charlotte Catholic in the second round.
• No. 20 Piedmont plays No. 13 North Iredell in the rst round. e winner plays No. 4 Watauga in the second round.
7A
• No. 1 Marvin Ridge has a rst-round bye. e Mavericks play either No. 16 South Iredell or No. 17 Page in the second round.
• No. 5 Porter Ridge has a rst-round bye. e Pirates play either No. 12 Southwest Guilford or No. 21 East Forsyth in the second round.
• No. 6 Cuthbertson has a rst-round bye.
e Cavaliers play either No. 11 Weddington or No. 22 Purnell Swett in the second round.
• No. 10 Independence plays No. 23 A.L. Brown in the rst round. e winner plays No. 7 Hickory Ridge in the second round.
• No. 11 Weddington plays No. 22 Purnell Swett in the rst round. e winner plays No. 6 Cuthbertson in the second round.
• No. 13 Ballantyne Ridge plays No. 20 Richmond Senior in the rst round. e winner plays No. 4 Grimsley in the second round.
8A
• No. 1 Myers Park has a rst-round bye.
e Mustangs play either No. 8 Northwest Guilford or No. 9 Pinecrest in the second round.
• No. 3 Providence has a rst-round bye.
e Panthers play either No. 6 Hough or No. 11 Chambers in the second round.
• No. 4 Ardrey Kell has a rst-round bye.
e Knights play either No. 5 South Mecklenburg or No. 12 East Mecklenburg in the second round.
• No. 5 South Mecklenburg plays No. 12 East Mecklenburg in the rst round. e winner plays No. 4 Ardrey Kell in the second round.
Local matches e CRTPO requires a 20% local match for this grant program, but sta recommended o ering a 35% local match. is raised some questions from commissioners. Stoogenke explained that the CRTPO gave a presentation in August noting that last year’s average submittal was 35%. Sta suggested 35% to remain competitive.
e local match would total $499,000 for the $1,425,000 Hargett Road intersection realignment project and $510,000 for the $1,458,000 Monroe Road sidepath project. “We’re still getting 65% of the money for free, so we’re being good stewards of taxpayers’ money,” Mayor John Higdon said. Commissioner Renee Garner expressed concern that as local matches for road projects increase, Mecklenburg residents may be paying more for state roads than any other county.
If the town receives the grants, preliminary engineering on both projects could start as early as scal year 2027. Project timelines call for construction to start in scal year 2031.
hands. It is my considered view that Commissioner Garner published the report to the MatthewsDems website the same night the report was approved for public release.
To the citizens of Matthews, I did not leak any information from a closed session, nor do I know of anyone who did. What we are seeing now is a direct extension of the pattern set in 2023, when Mayor Higdon and commissioners Garner, McCool and Urban made no secret of their goal to remove me from o ce. Standing up for the citizens of Matthews in not only my duty, it's the reason I serve. I make no apologies for that.
So, I'll leave you with this: What exactly was leaked from closed session that triggered this investigation? According to the investigative report itself: 1. e claim that Mayor Higdon stated "got rid of all the rats" proven false. 2. Mayor Higdon's praise that the former town manager "did a great job handling a use of force matter." at's the bombshell? A debunked rat tale and a gold star for handling a use of force incident? Riveting stu . Truly worth an entire investigation paid for by taxpayer dollars.
Gina Hoover serves as mayor pro tem of the Town of Matthews.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Nov. 8
Walking Tour
Matthews Heritage Museum o ers a Historic Walking Tour of downtown Matthew. Hear the stories behind some of our most treasured landmarks. e tour starts at Stumptown Park. Register at matthewsheritagemuseum.org.
9 a.m.; 119 S. Trade 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 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
Pawsitively Matthews
Pawsitively Matthews features more than 40 pet-friendly vendors, including local pet stores, veterinarians, treat bakeries, groomers and pet sitters, at Stumptown Park. The Town of Matthews Parks, Recreation & Cultural
Resource Department will also have dogs available for adoption from several area rescue groups, food trucks, doggie demonstrations and a beer “Pawvilion” hosted by Seaboard Brewing. matthewsfun.com
Nov. 10
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
Nov. 12
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
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
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
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
Nov. 13
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
Park Storytime
Children listen to stories and songs during Mint Hill Family Storytime at Mint Hill Veterans Memorial Park. cmlibrary.org/locations/Mint-Hill 10-10:30 a.m.; 8850 Fairview Road, Mint Hill
Nov 14
Consignment Pre-Sale
Matthews United Methodist Church invites the community to shop kids’ clothes, toys, baby gear and more at budget-friendly prices. is event is a pre-sale, which requires purchase of a pass for early entry.
4-8 p.m.; 801 South Trade St., Matthews
academics—it’s a Christ-centered journey that shapes hearts and minds. Our college preparatory program is taught through the lens of a biblical worldview, equipping students to re ect Christ in all ares of life. We are a community where academic excellence, artistic expression and athletic distinction are developed through intentional discipleship. We partner with Christian parents to prepare and challenge students to love God, know themselves and serve their world. You’re invited to discover how Carmel Christian is committed to nurturing each student’s God-given potential.
Southern Christmas Show offers tons of shopping
CHARLOTTE
– The 58th annual Southern Christmas Show will feature more than 400 holiday merchants showcasing the latest gifts, treats, holiday décor and gourmet goodies.
Marketplace Events hosts the show from Nov. 13 to 23 at e Park Expo and Conference Center, 800 Briar Creek Road. is year’s theme is Santa’s Workshop.
e show is the equivalent of more than 11 football elds of shopping, with more than a third lled with one-of-a-kind handmade items.
Visitors can stroll through Olde Towne Village, lled with charming storefronts and gifts for everyone on their list. ey can also be inspired by the Dazzling Designer Rooms, showcasing creative décor ideas around this
year’s theme. ose looking to deck their halls can explore Christmas Tree Lane with unique ideas and inspiration for every style of holiday home décor.
Families can marvel at the intricate model train village, complete with detailed designs and a scavenger hunt.
Visitors are invited to sip and sample at the Wine Pavilion or enjoy matinees of holiday lms.
e Entertainment Stage will feature choir performances and sing-alongs.
Santa Claus will be on hand to hear holiday wishes from guests of all ages. Photos with Santa will bene t Shriners Hospitals for Children.
e show o ers unique experiences:
• Get a sneak peek of the show during a Preview Night from 5 to 9 p.m. Nov. 12. A portion of ticket sales will be donated to e Sandbox. Attendees will enjoy free parking, hors d’oeuvres, treats from more than a dozen food partners and a performance by Eugene Murphy Jr., season six winner of “America’s Got Talent.” e rst 250 shoppers will receive a keepsake ornament. Tickets cost $30 online and at the door.
• ose wanting to beat the crowds can attend an Early Bird VIP morning from 8 to 10 a.m. Nov. 15. e rst 250 VIP shoppers will receive a keepsake ornament. Tickets cost $28 online and at the door.
• Wonderfully Made – An Evening with Lysa TerKeurst and Proverbs 31 Ministries is a new attraction. e event includes special
guests Jenny Wheeler and Operation Christmas Child. It takes place from 4 to 9 p.m. Nov. 20. Tickets cost $15 and will only be available at the box o ce.
• Girls Night Out will be from 4 to 9 p.m. Nov. 21 and features prize giveaways and shopping. Tickets cost $15 and will only be sold at the door.
Want to go? e Southern Christmas Show takes place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. ursday through Saturday, Nov. 13 to 23 at e Park Expo and Conference Center, 800 Briar Creek Road. Visit southernchristmasshow.com for event and ticket information.
Coffee Republic, 3016 Weddington Road – 96.5 • Jersey Mike’s, 3116 Weddington Road – 93.5 • Portrait Gallery, 118 E. Charles St. –96.5 • Santé, 165 N. Trade St. – 98.5
– 95
returns to Stumptown Station.
This second annual celebration brings friends, neighbors and local businesses together for a night of fun and fellowship, all to support the Matthews HELP Center, a nonpro t providing short-term crisis assistance to families and individuals across the greater Matthews area.
Admission is simple. Guests are asked to bring non-perishable food items, gas cards, or grocery gift cards, all of which will be donated directly to Matthews HELP Center. A portion of the evening’s proceeds from Stumptown Station will also benet the organization’s programs and services.
“I’m honored to host this event again and to see our community show up year after year,” said Chris Melton, event organizer. “It’s truly a party with a purpose, a night where we can celebrate the holidays, enjoy great music and make a real di erence for our neighbors in need.”
e evening will feature: • Live entertainment by Drew
from Charlotte’s Mix
107.9.
• Signature holiday cocktails and drink specials from Stumptown Station
• Festive fun, dancing and giveaways throughout the night.
• Co-hosted by Bobby Klein, owner of Stumptown Station, the event continues to grow through the generous support of local partners, including the Matthews Area Chamber of Commerce.
“This event captures everything that makes Matthews special: generosity, connection and community spirit,” Klein said. “We’re thrilled to open our doors again for an evening that celebrates both joy and giving.”
Melton encourages local business owners to join the cause through sponsorships, prize donations or participation.
“It’s a wonderful way for businesses to connect with the community and share in the spirit of the season,” he said.
Want to go?
Chris Melton’s Super-Big Holiday Party & Extravaganza takes place from 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 9 at Stumptown Station, 107A N. Trade St., Matthews. Bring a non-perishable food item, gas card or grocery gift card for admission to benefit the Matthews HELP Center.
The Southern Christmas Show features merchants from the Charlotte area and across the county.
Chris Melton
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Senior Business Intelligence Developer. Compass Group USA, Inc. Charlotte, NC. May teleco anywhr in US, rprt & trav occ to Charlotte, NC loc. Cond in-dpth mtngs w/ stkhldrs to undrstnd bus. Trans bus obj into measurable data. M-F 8:30A – 5:30P EST. Reqs Bach / Mast in Math, Stat, Engg, / CS / rel / equiv. Reqs if Bach 6 yrs, if Mast 4 yrs: part in full LC of BI dev, fr reqs gathrng to deplymnt & UAT; dsgn, dev, & main scalble BI sol focsd on fin rprtng; monitr rprts to ensr data integr & rprt func is upkept; prov traing & spprt to end-usrs on new rprts & dshbrds; wrk w/ teams on SW dsgn & dev prjcts; BI dev; wrk w/ stkhldrs of var lvls; if Bach 5 yrs / if Mast 3 yrs: use entrprse BI tools like Looker, PowerBI, / Microstrategy; data modl, data WH, & ETL proc; use SQL & lg datasets. Reqs 10% US trav. Apply: res to: shared.talentacquisitionoperations@ compass-usa.com & ref #117247.
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 highquality 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
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NORTH CAROLINA STILL ISN’T VERY URBAN
By John Hood Contributor
RALEIGH – According to the latest count by the U.S. Census Bureau, North Carolina has added yet another metropolitan area. Has our state become an urban colossus?
Not really, although most of our state’s cities are growing at robust rates. What actually happened was that the Census Bureau reclassi ed the Pinehurst-Southern Pines region as a metropolitan area. It used to be considered a micropolitan area. What distinguishes the former from the latter is the presence of an urban core of at least 50,000 people.
After the bureau released its updated model in 2023, there were 16 metropolitan statistical areas lying wholly or partly within North Carolina. ey were, in order of population size, Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, Raleigh-Cary, Greensboro-High Point, Winston-Salem, Durham-Chapel Hill, Wilmington, Asheville, Fayetteville, Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, Jacksonville, Burlington, Greenville, Rocky Mount, Goldsboro, Pinehurst-Southern Pines, and the North Carolina part of the Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk metro.
e Census Bureau then groups some metropolitan and micropolitan areas together –again, on the basis of commuting patterns – into what are called combined statistical areas. at’s the scale at which we can see the Triangle region, the Piedmont Triad, the greater Charlotte region, the Sandhills and so on.
One purpose of the bureau’s statistical areas is to convey the extent of economic integration. Each area, whether metropolitan or micropolitan, has a principal city. If at least a quarter of the people in a nearby county commute into the principal city to work, that places them within the statistical area.
It’s a useful exercise as long as we don’t misinterpret what it means. By the Census Bureau de nition, the vast majority of North Carolinians live in metropolitan areas. Most do not, however, consider themselves to be residents of an urban area. Nor should they.
e 22,055 residents of Anson County, for example, live within the Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia metro. If Anson is urban, there’s no such thing as rural.
Populous ring counties such as Johnston (in the Raleigh-Cary metro), Randolph (in the Greensboro-High Point metro), Henderson (in the Asheville metro) and Brunswick
(in the Wilmington metro) still contain large stretches of low-density housing and farmland. Even the likes of Wake, Mecklenburg, Durham, and Guilford have more than a few undeveloped parcels.
Moreover, to confuse “metropolitan” with “urban” – and then to distinguish urban areas from “rural” areas – is to miss the point entirely. e largest group of state residents are neither urban nor rural. ey live in the suburbs.
at is, at least, how they see it. In last year’s exit poll of North Carolina voters, 53% said their neighborhood was suburban, with 28% picking urban and 20% rural. A recent survey of adults by High Point University had it at 44% suburban, 18% urban and 34% rural. A Carolina Journal Poll of likely voters had it at 44% suburban, 13% urban and 40% rural. Di erences in wording and sampling methodology aside, it’s clear that only a small minority of North Carolinians identify as urban dwellers.
None of which is to say our cities aren’t critical engines of innovation, dynamism and growth, or that metropolitan statistical areas aren’t useful tools for describing our state’s commuting patterns, economic relationships and regional cultures.
But let’s not mistake handy labels and statistical tools for lived experience. e vast majority of North Carolinians live in suburbs, exurbs and towns. Most will never live in urban cores. ey don’t want to. Indeed, an increasing number don’t want to work in downtowns, either. ey prefer remote employment, hybrid employment or workplaces dispersed within and among the spokes of the metropolitan wheel, not ones concentrated within its hub. ey like being close to grocery stores and other retailers o ering frequently purchased items but don’t appear to mind driving longer distances for other shopping, entertainment and recreational experiences.
If developers, policymakers, and transportation planners pretend otherwise, if they substitute their own preferences for revealed ones, they’ll end up wasting a great deal of time and money.
Call it sprawl if you like. North Carolinians won’t care. ey call it home.
John Hood is a John Locke Foundation board member. His books “Mountain Folk,” “Forest Folk” and “Water Folk” combine epic fantasy with American history (FolkloreCycle.com).
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Review your health insurance options for 2026
By Mike Causey Contributor
is is the time of the year when many people are deciding which health insurance plans will cover them in 2026. e other day, we released the rates for those covered under the A ordable Care Act for next year.
Causey
Rates for the 2026 ACA will go up an average of 28.6% next year. Increased costs in health care as well as the expiration of federal subsidies result in premiums going up for many in the individual market.
Open enrollment for the 2026 ACA policies runs from Nov. 1 to Jan. 15, 2026. Signing up by Dec. 15 ensures your coverage will begin on Jan. 1, 2026. Coverage for those signing up after Dec. 15 will begin on
Feb. 1, 2026.
People purchasing ACA health insurance need to go to healthcare.gov and nd which plan works best for them. It’s more important than ever to begin researching health insurance options early.
While many may nd the increased premiums and absence of subsidies troublesome, it’s important to maintain health insurance.
Failure to do so could result in nancial ruin for you and your family should you have a serious medical emergency or accident.
A serious accident or medical emergency could result in tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars in hospital bills. e risks of not having insurance could be too great to bear.
In addition to ACA plans, other options may be available. ese include:
• Enrolling in job-based coverage. is may be the most a ordable option for many individuals and families. If you’re employed and
your employer o ers health bene ts, you may qualify to enroll in health insurance through your employer, even if you declined this coverage in the past. You may also be able to enroll in coverage through your spouse’s employer or, if you’re younger than 26, through your parents’ employer.
• Enrolling in a plan through a private insurer. You may purchase coverage through an agent or broker, or directly from a health insurance company. You may nd plans that cost less than the ACA plan. Just be sure they provide the coverage you need.
• Enrolling in a student health plan. If you’re younger than 30 and enrolled in school, you may be eligible for a student health plan. Contact your school to explore this option.
Contact an insurance agent who can listen to your personal situation and help you understand your options. If you’re in good
health and don’t think you’ll need medical care, you may want to ask about plans that have higher deductibles and copays as a means of making your monthly premiums lower. is could be a way of managing risks and your budget in case you have an unanticipated health emergency.
You may wish to contact your member of Congress to express your concerns about the subsidy expiration.
If you feel overwhelmed or need assistance understanding your options, feel free to reach out to consumer specialists at the Department of Insurance. We have specialists eager to assist. Give us a call from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays at 855-408-1212.
Mike Causey serves as North Carolina insurance commissioner.
THE PSYCHOLOGY BEHIND PUMPKIN SPICE
By Shari Bresin Contributor
Now that we’re o cially in pumpkin spice season, it made me wonder … what is the history of pumpkin spice?
How did this seasonal staple come about in the rst place?
And what makes it so embedded in “fall culture?”
While the craze took o after Starbucks debuted the pumpkin spice latte in 2003, the pumpkin spice blend itself is over 200 years old, with two spice- lled pumpkin pie recipes found in the 1798 cookbook “American Cookery.”
By the 1930s, spice manufacturing companies combined the ingredients into a
single product, so people no longer had to buy the separate spice ingredients – cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and cloves are the core components. Its purpose is to enhance the flavor of pumpkin. It doesn’t contain any actual pumpkin.
While this might be common knowledge to many, Reddit threads tell us otherwise, as there are people on there that are shocked to learn that there is no pumpkin in pumpkin spice, similar to how there is no hamburger in Hamburger Helper. Pumpkin itself is bland; you wouldn’t even want your latte tasting like actual pumpkin. It is mostly made of water (up to 90%), and so the pumpkin spice is needed to make it more appetizing in various pumpkin dishes.
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.
ese days, however, pumpkin spice anything (latte, donuts, cookies, cream cheese, yogurt, etc.) have more sugar than authentic pumpkin, if it has any at all, and may have some, all, or none of the spices of pumpkin spice.
Basically, food companies make pumpkin spice products to remind you of pumpkin pie, which we usually have positive associations with ( anksgiving, family time, cozy nights, cooler weather, etc.).
Because we like joy and happy memories, food that reminds us of this (plus the scarcity e ect that it’s a limited time) prompts us to buy it. e high sugar content also makes us come back for more.
Some food companies simply put caramel coloring in the product to make it look like pumpkin, and various preservatives to give it a look and taste of pumpkin pie without actually putting pumpkin or pumpkin spice in it, solely to capitalize on the pumpkin fad during this time of year.
More marketing than pumpkin goes into it.
In fact, you may recall the outrage over a decade ago when Starbucks customers learned that there wasn’t any pumpkin in the pumpkin spice latte, leading Starbucks
Find fall comfort in a bowl of pumpkin crumble
(Family Features) If you’re ready to embrace the avors of fall, look no further than a classic: pumpkin desserts. Instead of the typical pumpkin pie, mix things up this year with this Pumpkin Crumble treat from Cookin’ Savvy, an easy, delicious solution for satisfying that sweet tooth. Once you’ve nished enjoying every last bite, head to Culinary.net for more comforting dessert inspiration.
Pumpkin Crumble Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy” Servings: 8-12
to change the recipe and add pumpkin puree to the pumpkin spice avored syrup in 2015.
But based on the popularity of it before then, it’s clear that pumpkin wasn’t even necessary taste-wise, but people demanded it based on principle.
So, are your pumpkin spice foods really made with pumpkin, just the spices or just avoring agents and preservatives?
You will have to read the ingredients list to nd out.
And it’s not just food.
Pumpkin spice candles, air fresheners and hand soaps are also popular this time of year. e scent is just as powerful as the taste in evoking comforting memories.
Have you ever had a pumpkin-spice product during the other months of the year?
It just doesn’t have that same comforting e ect.
So whether you love or hate this pumpkin phrenzy, it’s safe to say this fall tradition is here to stay.
Shari Bresin is the Family & Consumer Science Agent for the University of Florida/ Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Cooperative Extension Pasco County, An Equal Opportunity Institution.
1 can pumpkin 1 can evaporated milk 1 cup brown sugar 2 eggs 1 tablespoon pumpkin spice 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1
Heat oven to 350 F.
bowl, mix pumpkin, evaporated milk, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin spice and cinnamon. Pour into greased 9-by-11-inch baking dish.
In separate bowl, mix cake mix, pecans and white chocolate chips. Sprinkle over pumpkin mixture. Pour butter evenly over top. Do not mix or stir. Bake 1 hour.
To make whipped cream: Using hand mixer, whip heavy whipping cream and sugar un-
