The 11-14-2025 Edition of The Charlotte Weekly South Charlotte
CHARLOTTE – Kimberly Owens achieved something that many Democrats before her have tried but failed to do – defeat a Republican for the District 6 seat on the Charlotte City Council.
Owens earned 16,239 votes, or 56.45%, in the Nov. 4 election against Republican challenger Krista Bokhari, whose husband vacated the District 6 seat earlier this year to take a federal role. The seat represents the SouthPark area.
“I am deeply humbled and forever
grateful to the voters of District 6 who chose me to represent them on our Charlotte City Council,” Owens wrote on her campaign Facebook page. “I am optimistic that for those who did not choose me, I will prove myself to be a pragmatic and skilled voice for the interests of all of District 6.”
Owens said her team “knocked on 15,000 doors, wrote 9,500 postcards, sent 100,000 text messages and made 2,000 calls.” Ed Driggs will be the only Republican
PINEVILLE – The Light the World Giving Machine is returning to the Charlotte area with a new home at Carolina Place Mall.
Visitors can “purchase” meaningful items that provide relief, education and hope for people in need, both locally and globally, from Nov. 19 to Dec. 7. Off erings range from simple necessities, such as laundry detergent for a neighbor in need, to empowering resources like a goat for a family across the world. Donation amounts vary from $5 to $180, inviting individuals, families and community groups of all sizes to participate.
“Each year, we’re amazed at how Charlotte shows up to give,” said Kristen Anderson, regional communication director for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. “Every card purchased represents a real act of kindness, whether it’s diapers for a new mother, groceries for senior citizens, school supplies for underserved students, or home heating for a struggling family. It is generosity made tangible, accessible and truly joyful.”
This year’s Giving Machine includes the following charities:
CHARLOTTE – The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education will welcome four new members to the dais, including two new representatives in southeastern Mecklenburg County.
Election Day saw two sitting school board members lose their seats, including District 5 representative Lisa Cline. District 5 includes Matthews and parts of south Charlotte.
Cline is wrapping up her first fouryear term with the school board after working nearly 30 years as an educator and administrator with
SouthPark seat on city council goes to Democrat
left on the council after the election. Driggs, who has represented the Ballantyne area since 2013, did not have an opponent in this election. However, there were 2,677 write-in votes cast, representing 16.2% of the vote.
Other district representatives elected to the council were Dante Anderson (District 1), Malcolm Graham (District 2), Joi Mayo (District 3), Renee Perkins Johnson (District 4), Juan Diego
Common Heart, Red Cross to benefit from vending machine
– Nick Gallo and Joshua
were elected Nov. 4 to serve on the Pineville Town Council, according to unofficial results from the Mecklenburg County Board of Elections.
Gallo, who has volunteered his time to serve on town advisory groups, was the leading vote-getter with 871 votes. His campaign revolved around the themes of fiscal responsibility and small-town feel. Simelton won the second and final available seat with 654 votes. Simelton posted on his campaign page on Facebook the morning after the election that his goal was to foster healthy growth and make the town a great place to live.
“To the Pineville community, I appreciate your confidence in me and I will do my best to make you proud,” Simelton said. “But this doesn’t just stop at the polls. I urge you to get involved as much as you can because it’s going to take all of us working together moving forward.” Les Gladden, a former member of the town council, finished 156 votes behind Simelton.
Challenger Yvette Isaacs finished ahead of Gladden in precincts 129 (Pineville Elementary School) and 231 (Pineville United Methodist Church) but Gladden’s support in Precinct 225 (Belle Johnston Community Center) gave him the boost to finish third.
Amelia Stinson-Wesley will succeed David Phillips as mayor. Stinson-Wesley earned 1,199 votes, or 83.32%.
“I am humbled by your support for my candidacy for mayor,” Stinson-Wesley wrote on her campaign page on Facebook. “I love this town so very much, and I am grateful for this opportunity to represent our town and serve our community. I am deeply committed to the ideals of democracy, and I am mindful that I stand on the shoulders of all those who have gone before me. Thank you to those who have entrusted me with this responsibility.”
One quirk about the Pineville mayor’s race was that 240 write-in votes were cast. While other Mecklenburg County races attracted more write-in votes, the Pineville mayor’s race had the highest percentage of any race in the election at 16.68%. Of the 240 write-in votes cast, 208 came from Precinct 225 (Belle Johnston Community Center).
Stinson-Wesley will preside over a Pineville Town Council that includes Gallo, Simelton and Danielle Moore. The council will have to appoint a replacement for the remainder of Stinson-Wesley’s four-year term as a council member.
The Mecklenburg County Public Sales and Use Tax passed with 92,251 votes, or
Community leaders and volunteers celebrate the official opening of the
Photo courtesy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Kimberly Owens (middle) stands with supporters in July after filling out
Meck voters approve sales tax referendum
CHARLOTTE – Mecklenburg County voters approved the 1-cent sales tax referendum by 52.1.3%, or 92,251 votes, according to unofficial results from the board of elections.
City officials say the measure will generate an estimated $19.4 billion over 30 years to fund improvements to public transportation and roadway infrastructure across Mecklenburg County.
“Big decisions lead to incredible opportunities,” City Manager Marcus Jones said. “The voters of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County have chosen to invest in our city's future. By committing to the long game
BUSINESS BRIEFS
and voting 'yes' to the sales tax referendum, Charlotte's infrastructure can now keep pace with our city's extraordinary growth. This is also an important economic development opportunity for our residents and small businesses.”
The approved tax increase will fund a transportation and transit plan that includes:
• Road and Pedestrian Improvements (40%): Investments in improved roads, sidewalks, bike paths and intersection upgrades to improve safety and mobility.
• Bus System Modernization (20%): Increased bus frequency, new shelters and benches at around 2,000 stops, and
OMB hosts annual Christmas Market
CHARLOTTE – The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery will host its annual Christmas Market (Weihnachtsmarkt) for four festive weekends at both OMB locations. Guests will be transported to a traditional German Christmas Market. Stroll through OMB’s magical biergarten, twinkling with festive lights, glowing fire pits, and the joyful sounds of the season. Browse 50-plus local artisan vendors (changing every weekend), enjoy food and sip on seasonal favorites like Gluhwein (OMB’s traditional spiced wine) and holiday beer.
Santa Claus will make a special appearance at both locations on Saturdays from 2 to 5 p.m. to pose for festive photos. Christmas Market dates are Nov. 28–30, Dec. 5–7, Dec. 12–14 and Dec. 19–21
Full vendor lists can be found at ombbeer.com/events.
Food Lion celebrates remodeled stores
CHARLOTTE – Food Lion recently celebrated newly remodeled stores throughout the greater Charlotte area.
Customers will discover enhanced shopping experiences, including expanded product selections, new “Fresh & simple” ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook meals, and improved checkout options with added self-checkout lanes. Stores also feature modernized designs that reduce energy use and create a fresh, welcoming atmosphere.
Some of the stores celebrating upgrades include 2201 W. WT
Harris Blvd., 3207 Eastway Drive, 2226 Park Road, 10120 Johnston Road, and 5939 Weddington Road in Wesley Chapel.
Postino launches reimagined bottle club
CHARLOTTE – Postino is bringing its signature wine bar experience home with the revamped Postino Bottle Club, now open to members nationwide.
Starting at $20 per month, the club offers flexible tiers for every kind of wine drinker, letting members hand-pick bottles from a seasonal list and uncork their selections in-restaurant.
“With the Postino Bottle Club, we wanted to take the fuss out of wine and bring people back together over the simple joy of sharing a bottle,” said Brent Karlicek, chief taster and advanced sommelier.
Learn more about the perk of the club at postinowinecafe.com/ bottleclub.
Chick-fil-A launches Season of Sharing
CHARLOTTE – Charlotte-area
Chick-fil-A restaurants are teaming up with Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina for a two-week Season of Sharing fundraiser to fight local hunger.
From Nov. 10 to 22, 100% of proceeds from every Chick-fil-A Nuggets Tray sold will be donated to Second Harvest.
Th e nonprofi t distributes food and household items through more than 950 agencies across the Carolinas.
On the web: chick-fil-a.com/ locations
expanded microtransit services to at least 18 new zones throughout the county.
• Rail Expansion (40%): Construction of the Red Line commuter rail, connecting Uptown Charlotte to Huntersville and Davidson. Additional projects include the Silver Line light rail from CLT Airport to Bojangles Coliseum, Blue Line extension to Pineville and Gold Line streetcar expansion.
Several precincts in the southeastern and northwestern Mecklenburg County opposed the tax increase. The majority of voters in every precinct in Matthews and Mint Hill voted against it. So did three precincts in Cornelius, six precincts in Huntersville and
Scooter’s Coffee salutes
veterans
OMAHA, Neb.– Scooter’s Coffee celebrated Veterans Day by offering a free medium drink to all veterans and active-duty military members on Nov. 11.
With a valid Military ID, guests could visit any of Scooter’s locations to enjoy any drink on the menu, including holiday favorites inspired by Elf, Red Bull Infusions and Sparkling Floats.
On the web: scooterscoffee.com
Taziki’s introduces Turkish Meatballs
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Taziki’s Mediterranean Café has launched a new limited-time dish, Turkish Meatballs, available now through Jan. 25 at all locations.
The meatballs are chargrilled to order using sourced lamb from Michigan-based Wolverine. Guests can enjoy them as a Feast, Gyro or Salad Topper.
The recipe draws from chargrilling methods founder Keith Richards discovered during a visit to Izmir, Turkey.
“On my trip to Izmir, I ate at several local restaurants, including one called TOPCU, and the way they chargrilled their meatballs to order really stood out,” Richards said. “Th e fi rst taste sparked the idea that this technique and flavor profile would fit perfectly within our menu.”
On the web: tazikis.com
Habit Burger & Grill launches holiday menu
IRVINE, Calif. – The Habit Burger & Grill is kicking off the season with its A Very Habit Holiday menu, available Nov. 5 through Jan. 6.
Guests can enjoy the return of the Patty Melt, plus new Cheesy Cauliflower Tots with Housemade Ranch and a Peppermint Bark Shake.
Seasonal promotions include a Buy $25, Get $5 E-Gift Card offer (Nov. 29–Dec. 24), BOGO Charburgers, rotating app deals, and 20% off merchandise in The Habit Gift Guide.
On the web: habitburger.com
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams unveils Holiday Collection CHARLOTTE – Th e holidays have arrived at Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, featuring the Splendid Holiday Collection now available online and in scoop shops.
Th e lineup includes Cranberry Panettone with Chocolate Sprinkles, White Chocolate Peppermint, Boozy Eggnog (made with Uncle Nearest Whiskey), Pistachio Macaron, and Dulce de Leche.
multiple precincts in Charlotte, most notably those represented by Malcolm Graham, Marjorie Molina and Ed Driggs Charlotte leaders view the referendum’s passage as a success for the region.
“After years of collaboration, we now have the resources to transform transportation in our region,” Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles said. “The Red Line will finally become a reality after more than two decades. We will expand bus service, build the Silver Line, improve our roads, and create safer streets. Th is is what we can accomplish when we work together.”
and blackberry jam. On Nov. 25, Jeni’s will debut the limited-time Dubai Chocolate Bar, pairing Pistachio Macaron and Milkiest Chocolate ice creams with Sundae Fudge Sauce and toasted kataifi.
On the web: jenis.com
Scooter’s Coffee launches Elfinspired holiday menu, gear OMAHA, Neb. – Scooter’s Coffee has partnered with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products on a festive new Elf-inspired menu, available through the holiday season.
Fans can enjoy holiday drinks and treats like the Candy Cane Forest Mocha, Swirly Twirly Sugar Cookie Latte, and Buddy the Elf Maple Caramelicious, along with fun peppermint pastries and festive décor inspired by Buddy’s North Pole adventures.
Exclusive merchandise, including tumblers, blankets, beanies, and barista aprons, is available in stores and online.
On the web: scooterscoffee.com
NC IDEA awards $160,000 in MICRO Grants DURHAM – NC IDEA, a private foundation supporting entrepreneurship and economic empowerment, has awarded $160,000 to 16 startups across North Carolina through its 15th NC IDEA MICRO grant cycle.
Since 2018, the program has distributed nearly $2.4 million to 240 early-stage companies statewide.
Each recipient receives $10,000 and participates in an eight-week customer discovery and product launch program.
Three recipients are from Charlotte: LS Adaptive, RYSE Kids, and The Gamrly Company.
Awardees will be recognized at the 2025 NC IDEA Ecosystem Summit on Nov. 17 and 18.
On the web: ncidea.org
Bulla Gastrobar raises glass for men’s health
CHARLOTTE – Bulla Gastrobar Charlotte is supporting Movember by donating $1 from every Spanish Old Fashioned sold to men’s health research throughout November.
The Spanish Old Fashioned puts a flavorful twist on the classic cocktail, crafted with Four Roses Bourbon, Lustau ‘Capataz Andres’ Solera, chocolate bitters and a fresh orange peel garnish.
The campaign spans from Nov. 1 to 30 at 4310 Sharon Road W01.
On the web: bullagastrobar.com
City issues warning about rezoning scam
CHARLOTTE – The City of Charlotte is alerting residents to a scam email impersonating the city’s Planning, Design & Development Department and requesting rezoning payments via wire transfer.
These messages are fraudulent and should be ignored.
Offi cial rezoning payments are only processed through Accela, with payment notifications sent from NoReply@Accela.com or Auto.Sender@Accela.com. Accepted payment methods include credit card, eCheck, or mailed check to the CLT Development Center (600 E. Fourth St., Charlotte, NC 28202).
City staff will never request wire transfers.
Anyone who has received the scam email and submitted payment should call 911 and 311 to file a report.
Residents are urged to verify any payment requests directly with
the city.
Children’s hospital earns recognition
CHARLOTTE – Atrium Health Levine Children’s Hospital has again been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the nation’s Best Children’s Hospitals, marking its 18th consecutive year on the list.
The hospital earned Top 25 national rankings in five specialties, including No. 8 in Cardiology & Heart Surgery, and Top 50 rankings in two additional specialties.
“This recognition is more than a badge of honor, it’s a reflection of the heart and soul our teams pour into every patient experience,” said Callie Dobbins, senior vice president of Atrium Health Levine Children’s.
Levine Children’s delivers care across the Carolinas and Georgia with nearly 700 beds and 900 pediatric providers.
On the web: levinechildrens.org/ best
CMS announces communications leaders CHARLOTTE – Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools has appointed Stephen Esposito as chief of strategic communications and engagement and Tom Miner as assistant communications officer.
Esposito, a 23-year CMS veteran, has served as teacher, principal and assistant superintendent.
“Strategic communication is essential to building trust and fostering engagement with our families, staff , and stakeholders,” Esposito said.
Miner joined CMS in 2019 and brings experience in education, media and political communications.
“CMS has incredible stories to tell, and I’m excited to help share them,” Miner said. “I look forward to building strong relationships with our schools, media partners, and community members to elevate and amplify the CMS story.”
Quick Hits
• PuroClean of Charlotte invites the community to support Toys for Tots by bringing new, unwrapped toys or making a monetary donation from 6 to 9 p.m. Nov. 19 at The Office Bar and Grill, 7804 Rea Road, Charlotte.
• Mac’s Speed Shop is kicking off the holidays with the return of its popular “Give ’Em the Bird” Thanksgiving Smoked Turkey Pre-Orders, featuring the new “Love Birds” bundle for smaller celebrations. Order online at macspeedshop.com/turkey.
• Th e team behind Th e Garrison Cocktail Bar & Restaurant in Pineville is opening a second location in Taga Cay, South Carolina in midspring 2026.
• Mizzen+Main has opened a new men’s clothing store in the Nordstrom wing of SouthPark.
• PopUp Bagels has opened at the Bowl of Ballantyne, 4020 Stream Way, Suite 113.
• Spectrum has introduced The Spectrum App Store, a new digital marketplace allowing Spectrum TV customers to activate, manage and upgrade streaming apps included with their plans or purchase them à la carte. It is accessible via the My Spectrum App and Spectrum.net.
• Kinetic, a fiber internet provider, has partnered with eero, an Amazon company, to bring customers Wi-Fi 7, a new wireless technology. Paired with Kinetic’s multi-gig fiber, eero Pro 7 delivers secure, high-performance coverage for remote work, streaming, gaming and smart home use.
The Christmas spirit is alive at Olde Mecklenburg Brewery. Photos courtesy of OMB
• Ada Jenkins Center: Strengthening families in northern Mecklenburg County with integrated services in health, education, and economic mobility.
• Classroom Central: Equipping local teachers and students in need with free school supplies to foster learning and success.
• Common Heart: Fighting local hunger through food pantries, grocery deliveries and empowerment programs in Union and surrounding counties.
• MiraVia: Providing life-affirming support for pregnant women and new mothers, including housing for student-moms pursuing education.
• American Red Cross: Delivering disaster response, preparedness, blood services and humanitarian aid.
• Church World Service: Supporting refugees and communities worldwide with emergency relief and resilience-building programs.
“We are so excited to be part of the Giving Machine,” said Karen Calder, executive
CHARLOTTE from 1A
Mazuera Arias (District 5). Mayo and Arias will join Owens as new faces on the council. Incumbents Dimple Ajmera, Victoria Watlington, James Mitchell Jr. and LaWana Slack-Mayfield coasted to victory in the atlarge council race.
Edwin Peacock III, who was appointed to fill Tariq Bokhari’s vacant District 6 seat until the election, finished fifth in at-large voting with 46,115 votes. While Peacock came 41,509 votes shy of the fourth available at-large seat, he led more than two dozen precincts.
South Charlotte resident Misun Kim finished sixth in the at-large race with 36,493 votes.
Mayor Vi Lyles, who has led the city since 2017, captured 92,239 votes, or 70.43%, against Republican challenger Terrie Donovan and Libertarian challenger Rob Yates. Election results are unofficial until the Mecklenburg County Board of Elections certifies them on Nov. 14.
director of Classroom Central. “This is a wonderful opportunity for the community to really rally around our students and teachers. It may sound simple. It’s a backpack or it’s a notebook. But really, it’s that extra something that says to a child: We see you. We believe in you. You can be successful in life.”
The Light the World Giving Machine is a reimagined “vending machine for good.” Instead of dispensing soda and snacks, visitors purchase much-needed items requested by charities. Donors simply select an item card, such as “baby pajamas” or “winter coat”, make their payment, and watch as the card drops into a collection bin to represent their donation. A digital receipt confirms the purchase and the charity receives 100% of the donation to provide that specific kind of help, with all operational costs covered by the initiative’s sponsor, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
The Giving Machine at Carolina Place Mall will be available during mall hours Nov. 19 to Dec. 7 on the first floor on the corner between Belk and Dick’s Sporting Goods. The mall is at 11025 Carolina Place Pkwy.
Charlotte Mayor • Vi Lyles: 92,239 (70.43%)
• Terrie D. Donovan: 33,465 (25.55%)
• Rob Yates: 4,702 (3.59%)
• Write-In (Miscellaneous): 554 (0.42%)
Charlotte City Council At-Large
• Dimple Ajmera: 96,364 (21.07%)
• Victoria Watlington: 94,966 (20.76%)
• James (Smuggie) Mitchell Jr.: 89,933 (19.66%)
• LaWana Slack-Mayfield: 87,624 (19.16%)
• Edwin B. Peacock III: 46,115 (10.08%)
• Misun Kim: 36,493 (7.98%)
• Write-In (Miscellaneous): 5,859 (1.28%)
Charlotte City Council District 6
• Kimberly Owens: 16,239 (56.45%)
• Krista Bokhari: 12,494 (43.43%)
• Write-In (Miscellaneous): 34 (0.12%)
Charlotte City Council District 7
• Ed Driggs: 13,844 (83.80%)
• Write-In (Miscellaneous): 2,677 (16.20%)
PINEVILLE from 1A
52.13%. About 54.85% of the people who voted at Pineville’s three polling locations favored the 1-cent sales tax.
Unofficial election results
Pineville Mayor
• Amelia Stinson-Wesley: 1:199 (83.32%)
• Write-In (Miscellaneous): 240 (16.68%)
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools.
Challenger Cynthia Stone captured 22,368 votes, or 56.8%, against Cline. Stone, who also has a teaching background, campaigned on five priorities: safety, mental health, teacher retention, quality education and transparency.
Stone thanked District 5 voters and campaign volunteers for their support.
“Every door knocked on, piece of lit passed out, voter greeted and testimonial shared made a difference – this truly was a team effort,” Stone wrote on her campaign Facebook page. “This was such an amazing experience, but now the real work begins. I’m excited to make CMS a world-class school district with my fellow school board members.”
Anna London emerged from a three-person race to succeed Summer Nunn as District 6 representative. London earned 12,563 votes, or 49.83%. London had a 5,960-vote edge over second place finisher Justin Shealy.
“As a former educator, counselor and now workforce leader, I’m ready to get to work; strengthening career pathways, supporting our educators and ensuring every student is prepared for life after graduation,” London wrote on her campaign Facebook page. “Our kids deserve the absolute best, and we’re going to meet this moment together!”
Other winners were Charlitta Hatch (District 1), Shamaiye Haynes (District 2), Gregory Rankin (District 3) and Stephanie Sneed (District 4).
Hatch, chief data officer with the City of Charlotte, defeated two other candidates, including incumbent Melissa Easley.
Haynes, a leader on several education-related
Indian Land Target is Now Open.
Pineville Town Council
• Nick Gallo: 871 (30.65%)
• Joshua Simelton: 654 (23.01%)
• L.R. (Les) Gladden: 498 (17.52%)
• Yvette Isaacs: 443 (15.59%)
• Tony Jennings: 355 (12.49%)
• Write-In (Miscellaneous): 21 (0.74%)
The Mecklenburg County Board of Elections will certify the results on Nov. 14.
boards and nonprofit groups, will replace longtime school board member Thelma Byers-Bailey after defeating challenger Juan Hall.
Select results Election results are unofficial until the Mecklenburg County Board of Elections certifies them.
School board, District 1
• Charlitta Hatch: 15,612 (44.84%)
• Bill Fountain: 10,146 (29.14%)
• Melissa Easley: 8,914 (25.60%)
District 2
Lawmakers call for National Guard in Charlotte
By Alan Wooten Contributor
(The Center Square) – Deployment of the National Guard to help “stabilize a crisis situation and protect innocent lives” has been requested of first-term Democratic Gov. Josh Stein by Republican U.S. Reps. Rev. Mark Harris, Pat Harrigan and Chuck Edwards.
The congressmen say the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Fraternal Order of Police’s request for guard members to assist law enforcement is of deep concern. Charlotte had one stretch of eight homicides in seven days and drew national attention for an Aug. 22 stabbing death on a light rail train.
The month of October in the Queen City included 18 homicides and 17 days of early voting. On the latter, residents stuck with Democrats for mayor and the four at-large City Council seats, even flipping one Republican seat.
Stein has not commented publicly on the request.
Second-term Republican President Donald Trump has sent the guard to the cities of Washington, Los Angeles and Memphis, with authorizations for Chicago and Portland blocked by judges.
“In Washington, D.C.,” the congressmen said, “when President Trump deployed troops under his lawful authority, the city promptly saw a reduction in crime, including 12 consecutive days without a single murder. Similarly, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee partnered with the National Guard to protect the citizens of Memphis and saw remarkable outcomes: 850 violent criminals arrested, 175 illegal firearms confiscated, and 44 missing children returned safely to their families.”
Decarlos Brown Jr. faces a murder charge in the stabbing death of Iryna Zarutska. He had been arrested 14 times previously since 2011. A Charlotte 15-year-old, according to a police department third quarter report, since August 2023 has been arrested 111 times, with seven charges of stolen property, 45 charges of larceny from an auto and 55 charges of auto theft.
“What is most concerning is that city leaders, many of whom have served multiple terms, have failed to foresee these police
shortages and build the ranks of CMPD at a time when attrition was manageable,” Daniel Redford, president of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Fraternal Order of Police, said in a release. “The officers of CMPD are now tasked with the burden of their failures and they grow more and more exhausted as each day passes.”
The police department released a third-quarter safety report “showcasing a substantial decline in crime citywide.” The report says crime overall is down 8% and violent offenses are down 20%.
The report also says violent crimes in Charlotte from Jan. 1 through Sept. 30 number 4,506. Zarutska’s death is one of 62 homicides. Those numbers for the same time period in 2024 were 5,622 and 82.
Charlotte has had increases in commercial burglaries (1,824, up from 1,751) and larcenies from automobiles (7,716, up from 7,697). The congressmen tell Stein that aggravated assaults involving knives and guns have risen from 86 to 111 this year, and personal strong-arm robberies are up from 26 to 31.
“These are not just numbers – they represent North Carolinians whose lives have been lost or shattered by violent crime,” the congressmen say.
In an Elon University Poll released last month, roughly the same percentage of North Carolinians who opposed the president sending the National Guard to Charlotte or Durham worry about their safety when there.
Support or opposition of Trump sending guard members was 47% opposed and 42% in support. Also asked about concerns for personal safety if spending time in particular cities, Charlotte and Durham were each at 49% for very or somewhat concerned, Winston-Salem was 42% and Raleigh and Greensboro each 41%.
Charlotte’s estimated population is 944,742, growing by 70,055 since the COVID-19 outbreak. Th e Queen City is 14th largest in the nation, second among the eight South Atlantic states, and seventh in the 16-state South as defined by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Make the Season Special with Smoked Prime Rib
Nov. 14
• Americana Beer Co.: Neal Carter
• Amos’ Southend: Taylor Acorn
• CharBar No. 7 (Mint Hill): Anna
Kimm
• Evening Muse: Chris Trapper; Tomorrow’s Problem
• Home Brew Taproom & Tunes: Country Joe
• Mary O’Neill’s: Analog Crash
• Middle C Jazz: Paul Taylor
• Spectrum Center: Playboi Carti
• Stooges Pub & Grub: Black Glass
• The Fillmore: Leon Thomas
• The Rabbit Hole: Bàwldy
• The Trail House: Steel County Express
• The Underground: Mac Ayres
• Visulite: Falllift
Nov. 15
• Amos’ Southend: Tell Me Lies
Blvd. – 96.5
• Chipotle, 2335 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 96 • East Coast Wings + Grill, 5140 Old Charlotte Hwy. –95.5 • Eggs Up Grill, 5124 Old Charlotte Hwy. – 93 • Hathaways, 1310 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 94
• La Herradura Mexican Restaurant, 1008 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 89
• Papa Johns Pizza, 1620 E. Roosevelt Blvd. – 98 • Taqueria El Correcaminos y Speedy Garcia #2, 2308 Eastview Circle – 98 • Tavern 74, 2116 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 90
• The Corner Street Food, 115 W. Sunset Drive – 96.5
Pineville • Food Lion (meat market), 317 S. Polk St. – 99
• Harper’s Cafe, 9101
Pineville-Matthews Road
– 95 • LongHorn Steakhouse, 10605 Centrum Pkwy. – 95
• Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre: 1000 NC Music Factory Blvd.
• Spectrum Center: 333 E. Trade St.
• The Fillmore: 820 Hamilton St.
• The Milestone: 3400 Tuckaseegee Road
• The Rabbit Hole: 1801 Commonwealth Ave.
• The Underground: 820 Hamilton St.
• Visulite: 1615 Elizabeth Ave.
Indian Trail
• Grapes Bistro: 6461 Old Monroe Road
• Tap and Vine: 6443 Old Monroe Road
• The Trail House: 6751 Old Monroe Road
Mint Hill
• CharBar No. 7: 7312 Town View Drive
• Stooges Pub & Grub: 13230 Albemarle Road
Monroe
• Americana Beer Co.: 222 N. Main St.
• Home Brew Taproom & Tunes: 215 S. Main St.
• Local Logic: 130 S. Main St.
• Peddlers Paradise Bartique: 103 W. Franklin St.
• Southern Range Brewing: 151 S. Stewart St.
• The Union Exchange: 2022 New Town Road
Stallings
• Moochies Tavern: 15054 Idlewild Road
Waxhaw
• Cork & Ale: 113 E. North Main St.
• Mary O’Neill’s: 110 W. North Main St.
• Waxhaw Taphouse: 110 McDonald St.
Community leaders honored at women’s health luncheon
– The C.W. Williams
CHARLOTTE
Community Health Center honored the achievements of nine community leaders during the seventh annual Women’s Health & Doctor Recognition Luncheon on Oct. 2 at the Revelry North End.
More than 320 guests attended the event, which commemorated the center’s 45 years of service to the community.
The event honored the following people:
• Carlenia Ivory-Cantey, longtime educator and advocate for educational equity;
• Nicholas Wharton, president and CEO of the Charlotte Area Fund;
• The Charlotte Medical, Dental, and Pharmaceutical Association;
• Valerie Kinloch, president of Johnson C. Smith University;
• The Rev. Abdue Knox, pastor at St. Joseph AME Church;
• Chris Shank, president and CEO of the North Carolina Community Health Center Association and Carolina Medical Home Network;
• Dr. Gary Little, senior vice president and chief medical officer of Atrium Health’s Southeast Region;
• Dr. Jerry Jones, former chief medical officer at The C.W. Williams Community Health Center;
• the late LeJaun McCain, longtime C.W. Williams Community Health Center board member.
Debra Weeks, CEO of The C.W. Williams Community Health Center, came up with the idea to host an event honoring minority community and civic leaders.
“In our communities, true progress is measured by the determined footsteps of those who carve out new paths for all to follow,” Weeks said. “We extend our deepest gratitude to these nine community trailblazers who embody the very best of us.”
WCNC-TV News Anchor Colin Mayfield served as emcee.
U.S. Congresswoman Alma Adams read a proclamation, commending The C.W. Williams Community Health Center’s 45th anniversary of dedicated service.
Th e luncheon featured keynote speaker Pam Diggs, director of workforce engagement at BlueCross BlueShield of North Carolina. Diggs encouraged the audience to continue to advocate for health equity, especially during uncertain times.
“In today’s evolving healthcare landscape, our services are needed now more than ever before,” said Edward Timberlake, board chairman of The C.W. Williams Community Health Center. “This annual event strengthens our mission to provide high-quality, comprehensive healthcare for everyone, especially those with limited means. We extend our deepest gratitude to all who helped make this event possible and advance our vital work.”
WEDNESDAY , DECEMBER 10 6:00-8:00
The C.W. Williams Community Health Center provides medical, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy and support services to thousands of patients annually. Its annual luncheon brings together community members for an afternoon filled with networking opportunities, recognition of outstanding leaders, and inspirational words from notable guest speakers. Net proceeds from each event help enhance access to quality healthcare programs primarily benefiting low-income, uninsured and underinsured patients throughout Mecklenburg County and surrounding areas.
Valerie Kinloch, president of Johnson C. Smith University, was among nine community leaders honored during the Women’s Health & Doctor Recognition Luncheon. Photo courtesy of The C.W. Williams Community Health Center
Helping North Carolinians, small businesses with health insurance
By Mike Causey Contributor
I recently teamed up with the NC Chamber and Blue Cross in NC to announce a new kind of health insurance policy that will be available to small businesses and their employees.
The new plan, the first of its kind in North Carolina, is called Carolina HealthWorks. It’s a multiple employer welfare arrangement, also known by the acronym MEWA. Finding affordable insurance has been a challenge for businesses and individuals alike. That’s especially true for small businesses. Many small business owners have told me about their struggles to find affordable
healthcare for their employees.
As NC Chamber President Gary Salamido noted at a press conference announcing the new plan, small businesses are the lifeblood of North Carolina’s economy. There are more than 1 million small businesses employing nearly half of the state’s private workforce. Smaller employers face tough challenges when it comes to providing health insurance for their employees.
Dr. Tunde Sotunde, CEO of Blue Cross NC, called Carolina HealthWorks “a bold, collaborative solution to the rising cost of health care for small businesses. By partnering with organizations like the NC Chamber and the Department of Insurance, Blue Cross NC is driving innovation and working to stabilize a volatile market. This is the kind of creative action needed to make health care
more affordable in North Carolina.” We’re constantly working hard on ways to
In Matthews and the surrounding communities, small businesses are a driving force in our local economy and significant employers. We are excited to offer this new opportunity – in partnership with the NC Chamber.”
– Jessica Tullar, president and CEO of the Matthews Area Chamber
make insurance more affordable to consumers. This plan, which is available to members of the NC Chamber and affiliate local chambers of commerce only, is one option that can make health insurance more affordable for
small business owners.
Progress like this often involves the cooperation of a lot of others. Legislators gave strong bipartisan support to the legislation needed to pave the way for this new type of health insurance plan. Gov. Josh Stein also signed the legislation into law.
Finally, I want to give a big thank you to the review team at the Department of Insurance for going above and beyond, putting in extra hours, to give this plan the regulatory approval it needed.
I look forward to working with insurance, business and government leaders to find creative ways to help make health insurance more affordable to North Carolina residents.
Mike Causey serves as North Carolina insurance commissioner.
BBB Scam Alert: Be careful searching for weight-loss items
The Better Business Bureau is warning consumers about a trend involving deep-fake videos that promote a weight-loss product.
In the course of two months, BBB Scam Tracker received more than 170 reports regarding a product called LipoMax, which is marketed as a form of the popular “pink salt trick” on social media.
Reports describe how fake videos were used to sell the supplement. Consumers reported seeing deep-fake videos of celebrities, such as Oprah Winfrey, as well as alleged physicians, endorsing the product on social media.
Reports have been received from the following states: Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri,
Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin.
A consumer from Illinois told BBB’s Scam Tracker: “I was on Facebook and noticed a video with Oprah Winfrey and a doctor speaking of the “pink salt trick diet.” Oprah herself talked about the magnificent results as did others on the video. Oprah also claimed she funded the project to manufacture the LipoMax product (pink salt trick). I figured Oprah – this must be legit. Over $400 after ordering the product I did indeed receive the order... Now I continue to receive emails asking me to sign on with a weight-loss coach for
I need you to jot down three things
By Tony Marciano Contributor
There is a Bible verse I struggled with over and over. I knew what it meant. I couldn’t understand how to live it out. It says, “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things.”
I knew what it was telling me to do. Think about what is good, positive and uplifting. What I couldn’t figure out was how to live it out in the day-to-day challenges of living in this world.
I came across a TED Talk by Shawn Achor titled, “The Happy Secret to Better Work.” The first 10 minutes are so funny. Then he asks you to do the following for 21 consecutive days: write down three things you are thankful for, journal one positive thing, do one random act of kindness, meditate and exercise.
I’ll confess that I haven’t been faithful to meditation and exercise. However, I’d like to think my prayers would count as meditation. Here’s what happened to me.
I began this in June 2019. By November, I renewed my driver’s license two months early and joined the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. Fast forward. I didn’t stop at day 21. I’m still doing it over six years later and I’m on day 2,200. Yes, that wasn’t a typo – over 2,000 consecutive days. I even do it while I am away on vacation.
The process is very easy. If you wake up, you have one thing to be thankful for. When you stand up from the bed, you have a second thing to be thankful for. If you can walk to the bathroom and it still flushes, you have three things you are thankful for and you’ve only been awake two minutes.
Writing down three things over 2,000 times has re-wired my brain. I recognize I struggle with being OCD. Today, I find myself pausing rather than letting my OCD force me to do the first solution I consider. By pausing, it allows me to see different options. Writing one positive journal entry forces me to really pause and look at something that was special that day. As I write this, today I had the opportunity to conduct the funeral of a woman I met over 20 years ago. I was able to provide comfort to the family as they grieved the loss of their dearly loved family member.
What constitutes a random act of kindness? Most recently, I had breakfast at a fast food restaurant. As I was leaving, I walked up to the food counter and asked if I could speak to the woman who prepared my food. I thanked her for taking such good care of me that morning. I told her I recognized that the work she did was hard, dirty and often encountered customers who were ungrateful and demanding. She began to light up. In another situation, I was being handed my bag of burgers. The person serving me had the number 97 tattooed on his neck. He explained that was the year he was born. I quickly calculated his age. He was young. I told him God had great things for his future. This job was just a stepping stone in moving him into his future. Suddenly, he had a huge smile on his face.
Let me challenge you to watch the TED Talk. Then join me in this journey of journaling three things you are thankful for, one positive event and a random act of kindness. I’ll be back soon. Until then, live well, my friend.
The Rev. Tony Marciano is available to speak to your group. DM him on Facebook.
more money.”
A Florida consumer reported: “I purchased a 6-month supply for $303.95. I thought [the] video was really with Oprah in it about LipoMax. I was also contacted by a ‘coach’ for LipoMax after my order, who tried to sell me $800 in additional supplements.”
A BBB investigation revealed that LipoMax is trademarked by a company registered in Wyoming; however, consumers are directed to send returns to addresses in Lakeland, Florida and Largo, Florida. Reports also claim improper billing, non-existent customer service, ineffective ingredients and continued pressure to buy additional supplements by someone claiming to be a LipoMax “coach.”
In response to the BBB, a LipoMax representative stated that the use of AI-generated
or “deep-fake” videos is neither authorized nor endorsed by the company, and the videos are not produced by the company. They also added that due to the independent nature of affiliate marketing, they do not have control over the content affiliates may create. The company stated it is committed to addressing any misuse in order to protect its brand and consumers.
To help avoid weight-loss scams, BBB has a list of tips on misleading ads and subscription traps for weight loss. Remember, don’t be quick to trust endorsements. Many scammers use pictures of celebrities, TV show mentions or well-known company logos without their permission in order to gain consumers’ trust. Always research the company before doing business.
