Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly

NEW NO. 1 IN SUPER 7 Billiard is on cue page 18

Volume 7, Number 38 • Sept. 24 to 30, 2014

Artists on parade

page 20 Locally Owned & Operated www.matthewsminthillweekly.com

Teachers engage in candid panel discussion

by Courtney Schultz courtney@matthewsminthillweekly.com

An area potter will give children a chance to get their hands dirty during the 29th annual Matthews ArtFest. Check out Courtney Schultz’s story on page 10. Photo courtesy of Tina Whitley

2014-15 performing arts Preview inside: our annual guide to the performing arts events you don’t want to miss. Starts after page 12

Charlotte-Mecklenburg School’s teachers aren’t troubled by the recently-adopted Common Core State Standards, according to a panel discussion held this week by MeckEd, an education advocacy group.

MeckEd hosted a community conversation to discuss CMS teachers’ expectations and needs on Thursday, Sept. 18.

“The mission is to support strong public schools,” said MeckEd Board Member Clifton Van. “Education is the foundation for all of our success.”

The conversation included a panel of CMS teachers: Allee Jo TenBieg, pre-k teacher at Sterling Elementary School; Greg Gabriel, seventhgrade teacher at Eastway Middle School; Diane Shell, AP environmental science teacher at South Mecklenburg High School; and James Ford, 2014-15 N.C. Teacher of the Year and ninth-grade history teacher at Garinger High School, who is currently on sabbatical.

The panel members discussed their impressions of the recently-adopted Common Core State (see MeckEd on page 14)

Concrete Roses finds thorns in finances

by Courtney Schultz courtney@matthewsminthillweekly.com

Charter school Concrete Roses STEM Academy announced on Thursday, Sept. 18, the school would abruptly shut its doors, leaving about 150 students displaced and scrabbling to enroll in new schools.

Concrete Roses STEM Academy, located off McAlpine Park Drive, is a kindergarten through 9th grade school, which sought to create a

student-friendly, positive and supportive environment resulting in academic growth year after year, according to the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction’s Office of Charter Schools’ website.

The school held an emergency board meeting on Sept. 17, and the decision was made then to close the school. Leadership sent an email that evening to parents announcing the school would close.

Concrete Roses was one of 11 schools chosen

last year by the North Carolina Board of Education to enter into a planning year for the school to be opened on Aug. 25.

Dr. Cedric Stone, CEO of Concrete Roses, said he had been in constant contact with the office of charter schools and has sent documentation to the department regularly.

The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction’s Office of Charter Schools reports charter schools are essentially public schools serving public students with public dollars, as noted

on its website. The primary funding sources for charter schools are local, state and federal tax dollars.

Looking under the surface

Joel Medley, director of charter schools at the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, said he has not heard any complaints from employees regarding Concrete Roses STEM Academy. Teachers typically go to the department (see Concrete Roses on page 13)

INDEX: News Briefs, 6; Crime Blotter, 7; Education, 12; Arts, 15; Rev. Tony, 16; Calendar, 17; Sports, 18; Classifieds, 23

Page 2 • Sept. 24 to 30, 2014 • Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly

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News

Sharing her voice Author’s fourth book of poems inspired by “As I Lay Dying”

by Josh Whitener josh@matthewsminthillweekly.com

Janice Moore Fuller always wanted to be a writer.

Fuller earned a doctorate in English and spent years studying authors and dabbling in writing. However, she was originally too intimidated to pursue publishing her work, feeling as though she had nothing significant to contribute, until she read a poem by Sharon Olds that inspired her to find her voice. “(The poem) was so accessible … It helped me sort of find a subject or subjects (to write about),” Fuller said. “I found my own voice.”

More than 20 years later, Fuller is now the author of between 100 and 200 published poems and four published poetry collections, the latest of which is “On the Bevel,” a collection of poems inspired by William Faulkner’s classic novel “As I Lay Dying.”

Fuller will visit Atherton Market on Sept. 26, a Friday, at 7 p.m. for a reading and booksigning event. The market is located at 2700 South Blvd.

“On the Bevel,” released earlier this year, was in the works for a number of years and originated as a stage production of “As I Lay Dying.” Fuller has been a professor at

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Janice Moore Fuller Catawba College for 34 years and had incorporated the novel into her curriculum for 20 years when she decided to pursue writing a play based on the book.

“For about 20 years, I would teach it at least every other year,” Fuller said. “Students would pick a different character (and study) the trademark elements of the language. It showed how strange that (character’s) language was. I thought, ‘This really needs to be a play.’”

Fuller had several theater students in her class at the time, which further fueled her desire to see the novel as a stage production.

She spent some time drafting the play during a residency in Portugal, and the play debuted

at Catawba College in the fall of 2011.

“It was one of the most important moments in my life,” Fuller said of the play’s premiere. “Except for having my children, that was the biggest moment. It was a wonderful cast – I was really moved by everything that happened.”

While she worked on the stage production, Fuller also wrote poems. She admittedly is intrigued by death, and writing poems related to “As I Lay Dying,” a novel centering on the death and burial of a wife and mother, allowed her to explore the subjects of dying and mortality. Though the thematic content of the poems is heavy, Fuller also incorporates hope.

“These poems have more silence, turning away from just pain and sorrow to transcendence and light,” she said. “There’s more serenity, even in the middle of all this death. They’re more spiritual than other poems I’ve written before.”

Fuller also drew inspiration from the death and burial of Andy Griffith, as well as the death of Matthew Shepard, a 21-year-old man murdered allegedly in an anti-gay crime in 1998 near Laramie, Wyoming. Shepard was one of Fuller’s students during his time at Catawba College.

“(The poems) are turned outward to a lot of people, (but) even if I’m writing about something that doesn’t even have to do with me, always some of my own sensibilities come into it,” Fuller said.

Though Fuller stays busy teaching and participating in speaking engagements and residencies, she’s already working on her next project, which she said likely will be a collection of poems inspired by her experience recovering from a brain aneurism and subsequent risky surgery last year.

“I’m moving toward a collection – some of it will be poems about my daughters and grandbaby, some about swimmers coming up to the surface,” Fuller said.

Fuller has already shared some of the poems with others, who have given positive feedback, saying the poems are strong and inspirational.

“Miraculously, I made a full recovery,” she said. “That’s part of what the book is going to be about – sort of about the miracle of being alive.”

Find more information about Fuller and her books at www.janicemoorefuller.com.

Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly • Sept. 24 to 30, 2014 • Page 3

Page 4 • Sept. 24 to 30, 2014 • Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly

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News

Matthews board addresses bow and arrows

by Courtney Schultz courtney@matthewsminthillweekly.com

MATTHEWS – As the urban archery season opens, the Matthews Board of Commissioners decided the fate of six petitions regarding the use and discharge of a bow and arrows during a meeting on Monday, Sept. 22.

Matthews Police Chief Rob Hunter said the town included bow and arrows under the use of firearms ordinance over six years ago as an act of public safety and so the town would have control over the bow and arrows in the community.

Individuals who wish to discharge a firearm in the town must obtain a permit from the police chief and the approval of the board of commissioners. Applicants are asked to include the specific parcel where they will discharge the bow and arrow and their intention of use so the police can evaluate the safety precautions related to use.

“We don’t look at intention for more than the conditions its puts in place,” Hunter said at the meeting.

The police conduct a site inspection for each parcel with the

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applicant and, in some cases, the applicant must gain approval of neighboring property owners for police to grant the permit.

Some residents shared concerns over the safety of permitting the discharge of crossbows near residential areas, but Hunter said police recommended approving all six of the permits at Monday’s meeting – each with its own set of conditions.

One resident said he felt he would be a prisoner in his own home because of the hunters outside his door. He said the tree stand in one of the petitions is 75 yards from his property line, which led to his concerns of safety for his family and pets.

District 6 wildlife biologist Rupert Medford of the North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission said hunting in an urban environment is relatively safe, during a presentation to the commissioners.

The biggest danger is tree stand falls, he added.

Matthews Mayor Jim Taylor felt the six petitions fell into three specific categories: two were renewals, two were on the same parcel and (see Firearm permits on page 11)

Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly • Sept. 24 to 30, 2014 • Page 5

News

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Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly

News Briefs Mint Hill taking committee applications MINT HILL – Mint Hill is currently accepting applications for its advisory bodies, including the parks and recreation committee, planning board and board of adjustments.

Each committee meets at least once a month and may be required to report at Mint Hill board of commissioners meetings.

The board of commissioners policy requires that all appointees must be current on all town and county taxes and fees, including real estate, personal property taxes, vehicles taxes and storm water fees, among others.

The application can be found at www.minthill.com/documents/13/ Application.PDF and should be returned to the Mint Hill Town Hall.

The town hall is located at 4430 Mint Hill Village Lane.

Finance department wins award MATTHEWS – Matthews Mayor Jim Taylor presented Matthews Finance Director Christine Surratt with an award for financial reporting achievement at the town’s recent board of commissioners meeting, on Monday, Sept. 22.

Page 6 • Sept. 24 to 30, 2014 • Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly

Taylor commended the town for winning the award for each of the past 16 years from the Government Finance Association of the United States and Canada.

Matthews discusses Outen Pottery property

MATTHEWS – The Matthews Board of Commissioners hosted a public hearing to discuss a historic property designation at its recent meeting, on Monday, Sept. 22.

The hearing was to discuss an amendment to the landmark designation ordinance for R.F. Outen Pottery, located at 430 Jefferson St. in Matthews.

The ordinance would be amended to include 0.361 acres of land associated with the original parcel.

Stewart Gray, preservation planner at the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Historic Landmarks Commission, said the rationale behind the revision was he feels the property is not complete.

Commissioner Kress Query wanted to ensure the Landmarks Commission would restore the property to its original condition, which Gray plans to do.

The commission is currently conducting various reports, such an environmental reports, to make the town aware of any issues on the property, Gray added.

Gray wanted to complete the reports and present the findings to the board of commissioners before the town voted on the historic designation.

The vote regarding the amendment to the ordinance related to Outen Pottery will occur on Nov. 10, a Monday.

Matthews waits to vote on transportation plan

MATTHEWS – The Matthews Board of Commissioners deferred to vote on its transportation plan with Stallings at its recent meeting on Monday, Sept.

22.

Matthews Public Works Director Ralph Messera said the town decided it wanted to create such a plan within the past four years. He said Matthews was most similar to Stallings and its travel patterns since residents and commuters share common roads and routes to travel to work, shopping or recreational activities.

The towns undertook the development together to ensure future plans for the area would support both towns’ needs, according to the Matthews town website.

Messera wanted to defer the votes so he could answer questions about the plan’s use and how the plan was created – concerns brought by Matthews Mayor Pro Tem Joe Pata.

The Comprehensive Transportation Plan for Matthews and Stallings is available for the public.

The plan can be found at w w w. m a t t h e w s n c . g o v / Po r t a l s / 0 / D e p a r t m e n t s / P u b l i c % 2 0 Wo r k s / Projects/Comprehensive_ Transportation_Plan_2014.pdf.

The town will vote on the plan on Oct. 13, a Monday.

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News Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly

Crime Blotter The following people were arrested in Matthews between Sept. 16 and 22, according to the Matthews Police Department: • Melissa Marie Hilbish, 9200 block of East Independence Boulevard: Simple possession of marijuana; possession of drug paraphernalia. Sept. 15 • Patrick Gerrard Rifino, 1800 block of Gander Cove Lane: Assault; false imprisonment; communicating threats. Sept.

• Christopher James Lail, 2200 block of Light Brigade Drive: Assault with deadly weapon; larceny after breaking and entering; felony breaking and Lail entering. Sept. 16 • Vlado Lukic, 2100 block of Matthews Township Parkway: Larceny. Sept. 17 • Amy Marquella Williams, 1900 block of Matthews Township Parkway: Larceny shoplifting. Sept. 18 • Jewel Abigail Jennings, 9200 block of East Independence Boulevard: Order for arrest; failure to appear. Sept.

19 • Amber Lynn Lockhart, 600 block of West John Street: Driving while impaired; no operaLockhart tors license; speeding. Sept. 19 • Francisco Escobar Barrera, 10400 block of East Independence Boulevard: Breaking and entering; larceny after breaking and entering; possession Barrera of stolen goods. Sept. 20 • Joseph Grant Smith, 500 block of Main Street: Driving while impaired; resisting, obstructing, delaying arrest; provisional driving while impaired.

Smith Sept. 21 The following crimes occurred in Matthews between Sept. 16 and 24, according to the Matthews Police Department:

Drugs • Intown Suites, 9211 E. Independence Blvd.: Possession of marijuana; possession of drug paraphernalia.

Sept. 15

back door window; $1,700 in equipment stolen including three miter saws, two table saws, a saw-zaw, soncraft and air compressor. Sept. 17 • 700 block of Ablow Drive: Nothing reported stolen.

Sept. 19 • 10600 block of East Independence Pointe Parkway: $5 registration plate stolen. Sept. 19 • 10500 block of Paces Avenue: $50 wheel and tire stolen. Sept. 21

Larceny • McDonald’s, 9607 E. Independence Blvd.: $300 Samsung Galaxy SIII cellphone stolen. Sept. 15 • Matthews Post Office, 310 E. John St.: $10 license plate stolen. Sept. 15 • Best Buy, 2109 Matthews Township Pkwy.: $50 phone case stolen. Sept. 17 • 11400 block of E. Independence Boulevard: Obtaining property by false pretense. Sept. 18 • 10800 block of Monroe Road: $4,035 of various items including a touring bicycle, coins, projector TV, two sets of Navy uniforms, tents, game system stolen and $50 in damage to roll-up side door. Sept. 18 • Rite Aid, 630 Matthews Township Pkwy.: $113.48 worth of Newport cigarettes stolen. Sept. 18 • Vitamin Shoppe, 1908 Matthews Township Pkwy: $299.96 worth of testosterone booster stolen. Sept. 18 • Target, 1900 Matthews Township Pkwy.: $81.26 worth of baby clothing, blue jeans and flannel shirts stolen. Sept. 18 • Krispy Kreme, 9301 E. Independence Blvd.: $100 cash stolen by employee. Sept. 18 • Intown Suites, 9211 E. Independence Blvd.: $280 in prescription pills, a queen pillow and sunglasses stolen. Sept. 21

• 1000 block of Matthews Commons Drive: Harassing phone calls. Sept. 21 The following people were arrested in Mint Hill between Sept. 16 and 22, according to the Mint Hill Police Department: • Jasmine Leilani Harris, 4800 block of Shea Lane: Simple assault. Sept. 16 • Sydney Joan Lindenmuth, 3400 block of Matthews-Mint Hill Road: Possession of Schedule IV drug; possession of drug paraphernalia; possession of liquor under 21. Sept. 18 • Carlton Grant Woodle, 12600 block of Idlewild Road: Order for arrest. Sept. 19 • Charles Alexander Thomas, 1000 block of Blythe Boulevard: Driving while impaired; provisional driving while impaired; possession of alcohol under 21. Sept. 19 • Sandra Ann Cooper, 7000 block of Golden Spike Drive: Possession of Schedule VI drug (marijuana); possession of drug paraphernalia. Sept. 22 The following crimes occurred in Mint Hill between Sept. 16 and 22, according to the Mint Hill Police Department:

Home/Business Break-Ins • 4800 block of Stoney Trace Drive: $77 in goods including wallet, cash, debit card, social security card and wrist watch stolen from home. Sept. 16 • 13000 block of Idlewild Road: $3,700 Apple laptop and computer software stolen. Sept. 17 •4 800 block of Stoney Trace Drive: Nothing reported stolen. Sept. 18 • 9500 block of Stoney Trace Drive: $860 stolen in goods including seven Nintendo gaming controllers, Nintendo Wii, Xbox 360 and Fossil watch. Sept. 18

• 11800 block of Ranburne Road: $1,400 stolen in goods including a Yamaha dirt bike, drill, handsaw, tile wet saw and saw zaw stolen. Sept. 21 • 5000 block of Stoney Pond Lane: $300 Xbox stolen.

Sept. 22

Vehicle Break-Ins • 9200 block of Aylesbury Lane: $1.50 in loose change stolen. Sept. 17 • 9400 block of Errington Lane: $37 in coins and speaker stolen. Sept. 17 • 9400 block of Errington Lane: $39 in coins, phone charger, sunglasses and lottery ticket stolen. Sept. 17 • 6300 block of Danbrooke Drive: $25 in cash stolen.

Sept. 17 • 6300 block of Ellesmere Court: $1 in cash stolen.

Sept. 17

Vandalism • 4700 block of Stoney Trace Drive: $50 damage done to vehicle door. Sept. 17

Larceny • 7500 block of Davis Road: $150 iPhone 4 stolen.

Sept. 21

Other • 6800 block of Kersfield Place: Discharging firearm in public. Sept. 16 • 6900 block of Kersfield Place: Firearm shot into residence. Sept. 17 • 4300 block of Wilgrove-Mint Hill Road: Harassing phone calls. Sept. 17 • 8800 block of Statesman Drive: Communicating threats. Sept. 18

Assault • Verizon Wireless, 2218 Matthews Township Pkwy.: Simple physical assault. Sept. 15 • 1800 block of Gander Cove Lane: Assault by pointing a gun; communicating threats; false imprisonment.

Sept. 16 • Carolina Lanes, 11210 Brigman Road: Simple physical assault. Sept. 16 • 600 block of Fredericksburg Road: Assault on a female. Sept. 20 • Home Depot, 1837 Matthews Township Pkwy.: Assault by pointing gun; trespassing; warrant for arrest.

Sept. 20 • Carolina Floor Covering, 528 E. Charles St.: Assault with deadly weapon. Sept. 20

Fraud • 2200 block of Citation Court: Identity fraud. Sept.

Home/Business Break-Ins • Animal Care Hospital of Matthews, 1216 Matthews-Mint Hill Road: $250 damage to window; nothing reported stolen. Sept. 15 • 14000 block of Pommel Lane: Nothing reported stolen. Sept. 16 • 2300 block of Kimway Drive: $200 refrigerator stolen. Sept. 19

Vandalism • 10500 block of Paces Avenue: $500 in damage to right side door of Dodge Ram 150. Sept. 18 • 10600 block of Independence Pointe Parkway: $500 damage to paint on driver’s side door. Sept. 18

Vehicle Break-Ins • 9900 block of E.ast Independence Boulevard: Registration number plate stolen. Sept. 16 • 10800 block of Monroe Road: $200 damage to www.matthewsminthillweekly.com

15 • 1400 block of Cameron Matthews Drive: Credit card fraud. Sept. 17 • 2100 block of Matthews Township Parkway: Obtaining property by false pretense. Sept. 18 • Best Buy, 2109 Matthews Township Parkway: Credit card fraud. Sept. 18 • 2000 block of Glendlough Lane: Obtaining property by false pretense. Sept. 19 • Family Dollar, 10401 Monroe Road: Fraud. Sept.

19

Other • All Around Tanning, 1544 Matthews-Mint Hill Road: Obscene/harassing phone calls. Sept. 16 • 1000 block of Clearbrook Drive: Communicating threats. Sept. 19 • 1200 block of Jerry Lane: Unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. Sept. 21 Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly • Sept. 24 to 30, 2014 • Page 7

News

Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly

Restaurant Scores The Mecklenburg County Health Department reported the following sanitation scores at the following dining locations in the Matthews and Mint Hill are from Sept. 16 to 22.

Lowest Scores: • Monterrey Mexican Restaurant, 9623 E. Independence Blvd., suite S – 91.5 Violations included: sanitizer at incorrect concentration; utensils had sticker residue; tomatoes, cut lettuce and sour cream on make table at higher than 45 degrees Fahrenheit; two large pans of food held with expired labels; no consumer advisory for animal foods served raw or undercooked; shelving with rust and corrosion; faucets without backflow protection; handles and spigot at kitchen hand sink not working properly; floors and floor drains in kitchen and dish room need cleaning.

All Scores: 28105 • Amor De Brazil Steakhouse, 2225

Page 8 • Sept. 24 to 30, 2014 • Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly

Matthews Township Pkwy. – 95.5 • Cracker Barrel, 9330 E. Independence Blvd. – 94 • Fuddruckers, 1643 Matthews Township Pkwy. – 94 • Harris Teeter Corporate Café, 701 Crestdale Drive – 99 • Kristopher’s Sports Bar and Grille, 250 N. Trade St. – 96.5 • Moe’s Original Bar-B-Que, 111 Matthews Station St. – 98 • Monterrey Mexican Restaurant, 9623 E. Independence Blvd., suite S – 91.5 • Stack’s Kitchen, 11100 Monroe Road – 100 • Thai Taste Matthews, 131 Matthews Station St. – 98.5 28227 • Sizzling Wok, 6908 Matthews-Mint Hill Road – 96.5 About the grades…Restaurants are given grades of A for scoring at least 90, B for 80 to 89 and C for 70 to 79. The state revokes permits for restaurants that score below 70.

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Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly • Sept. 24 to 30, 2014 • Page 9

News

Artists on parade Matthews Chamber of Commerce will host 29th annual ArtFest

by Courtney Schultz courtney@matthewsminthillweekly.com

MATTHEWS – Oil paintings, handcrafted woodcarvings and eclectic jewelry will soon swarm the Matthews Town Green in front of town hall.

The Matthews Chamber of Commerce will host its 29th annual ArtFest of Matthews, a fine art and master craft juried show, featuring over 50 artists from throughout the Southeast, on Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 27 and 28.

The free festival allows patrons from Mecklenburg and surrounding counties a chance to meet painters, jewelry makers, wood turners, potters and more. Artists also have a chance to sell their art.

The display is high-quality art – not simply arts and crafts, said Tina Whitley, executive director of the Matthews Chamber of Commerce. Judges, who are experts in their field, will also present over $3,000 in artist prizes for “Best in Show,” Best Booth, merit awards, Juror’s Choice and more, according to the chamber’s website.

“Not only are artists vying to sell their work, but they are hoping to impress the judges,” Whitley said.

High school seniors will also show their creativity in the High School Senior Art

Scholarship Competition. Seniors will have the chance to win scholarship money, which will be announced on Sunday at 3 p.m.

The event will also feature live music from an “incredible mix of musicians,” as well as a kid’s activities corner, sponsored by Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates.

The juried show has grown every year, Whitley said, and the event will give back to two nonprofits in the area – Butler High School HOSA and Turning Point Domestic Violence Shelter of Union County.

Whitley said this year is the biggest they have had in the town green location and at the event’s continued success to the event’s title sponsor, Novant Health. Novant has been the event’s sponsor for 20 years and Whitley said it has been an “incredible partner.”

Realist artist Werner Willis has participated in the art show for over 10 years.

“That is one of the most artist-friendly shows that I have done – that I like to do,” Willis said. The artist said he receives countless compliments from patrons who attend the event.

“The attendance is good. Everybody comes into my booth, and they love my work and compliment me,” he said.

He said sometimes judges or patrons may not realize the amount of work and detail that goes into realist paintings.

Page 10 • Sept. 24 to 30, 2014 • Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly

Artists from around the greater Charlotte area present art of multiple medias for patrons to view and purchase. Photo courtesy of Tina Whitley

Willis has kept returning to the show because he enjoys receiving audience feedback about his art. He also believes the show to be one of the easiest shows around.

Sales can vary year to year, Willis added, but even if he has a down sales year, he said the experience is well worth it.

ArtFest is the chamber’s biggest event of the year and bring about 5,000 to 10,000 people from all over the area.

Whitley believes the event helps the Matthews community, by encouraging tourism

and having patrons to eat at local restaurants and stay at local hotels.

“It’s a win-win for everybody,” she said.

“It’s a promotion of Matthews and that’s what we’re all about.”

The event will take place in the Town Green on Matthews Station Street. The show will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sept.

27 and from noon to 5 p.m. on Sept. 28.

Go to www.matthewschamber.org/artfest. htm for more information about the event.

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News

Firearm permits (continued from page 5)

two were completely new requests.

The two renewals, which were the 2016 Kimway Drive parcel submitted by Michael Gesell and the 101 Charing Cross Drive parcel submitted by Ronald Williams, were both approved by the board, with Commissioners Jeff Miller and John Higdon in opposition of the Charing Cross parcel and Miller in opposition of the Kimway parcel.

Permits by Travis Bakken and Andrew Hagler, both Union County residents who plan to use the crossbows for deer hunting, are leasing property near Phillips and Stallings roads.

Commissioner Kress Query had concerns over how close the tree stand was to the neighboring residents of the parcel and said it caused safety issues for residents.

The board ultimately passed both permits – with Miller in opposition – with the removal of the tree stand from the parcel.

The remaining two permits – submitted by Paul Howard and Christopher Porter – were ultimately denied due to safety reasons.

Howard’s permit related to a parcel within close proximity to

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Matthews Athletic and Recreation’s fields off South Trade Street.

“You can’t be hunting in a subdivision,” Higdon said. “It’s ludicrous in my opinion.”

Taylor said he had concerns over the size of the property and its proximity to other houses and the MARA fields.

The permit was denied by four of the commissioners.

Porter’s permit related to 421 Lakenheath Lane. The police presented photos to the commissioner, which displayed the prospective tree stand used would be a tree house. The tree house also resided next to a swing set.

Higdon commented that the parcel was too close to a “kid-friendly” area.

The petition was denied 5-2, with Ross and Pata in approval.

All documents concerning the six permits can be found at www.matthewsnc.gov/ TownGovernment/AgendaandMinutes/ September22,2014.aspx.

The board next meeting will be Oct. 13, a Monday, at the town hall, located at 232 Matthews Station St.

Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly • Sept. 24 to 30, 2014 • Page 11

Education Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly

Education

News & Notes

Covenant Day hosts cellphone info session MATTHEWS – Covenant Day School will host a discussion group open to all parents who are concerned about their children’s use of cellphones.

Covenant Day high school counselor Dawn Poulterer will be the guest speaker, discussing when a child should get a cellphone, which apps are safe, making a cellphone contract with your child and more.

Contact info@momsmanagingmedia. com for more information or reserve a space at the event by emailing www. momsmanagingmedia.com.

Stingerfest 2014 to come to Matthews Elementary MATTHEWS – Matthews Elementary School will host its Stingerfest 2014 on Oct. 11, a Saturday, at noon to 4 p.m.

Parents will have the chance to win baskets in a raffle at the event.

The school is looking for basket donations to have “awesome baskets to be raffled.” Students were sent home with a suggested list of donation items.

Contact the school with any questions at 980-343-3940.

Matthews Elementary School is located at 200 McDowell Ave. Crestdale needs tutors, teacher helpers for tutor program MATTHEWS – Crestdale Middle School is asking for parents to help in the classroom for the school’s tutoring program.

“This year, our tutoring program will be designed to help teachers directly help their students in class,” read the school’s newsletter.

Tutors will be assigned to a teacher to help students with math or language arts – tutors are asked to share which subject they prefer. Most classes are one to 1.5 hours during the day and are a once a week commitment.

No experience is necessary. Interested parents can email Debbie Dixon at ddixon23@carolina.rr.com or Loretta Brucciani at brucciani4@windstream. net by Sept. 26.

Providence High sells mattresses to benefit football program CHARLOTTE – Providence High School will host a mattress sale on Saturday, Sept. 27, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. to benefit the Providence Panthers football program.

Name brand mattress sets will be sold at 30 to 60 percent below retail prices, featuring multiple styles and sizes.

All styles and sizes will be available to test at the school.

Page 12 • Sept. 24 to 30, 2014 • Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly

Providence High School is located at 1800 Pineville-Matthews Road.

Freedom School Partners looking for volunteers CHARLOTTE – Freedom School Partners will host FreedomFest, a carnival style reunion for children, families, staff, partners and volunteers who were a part of the Children’s Defense Fund Freedom Schools summer program this past summer.

Freedom School Partners collaborates with community partners to provide the Children’s Defense Fund Freedom Schools summer program to children in Charlotte who most need and can least afford summer programming. CDF Freedom School programs prepare children for success in school and in life by providing three fundamental resources needed to develop their potential.

Volunteers are needed to supervise activities, games, registration and food stations, as assigned.

The event will take place on Oct. 4, a Saturday, at Covenant Presbyterian Church, at 1000 E. Morehead St. in Charlotte. Volunteers are needed for the following shifts: 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m.

People who would like to help can contact Irene Jordan at irene@ freedomschoolpartners.org or 704371-4922.

State academic standards commission finally appointed RALEIGH – The North Department of Administration announced the 11 members of the Academic Standards Review Commission on Tuesday, Sept.

16.

The appointments were made in accordance with the North Carolina Senate Bill 812, which has a Sept. 1 deadline.

The appointments were apportioned as followed: four members appointed by the speaker of the House of Representatives; four members appointed by the president pro tempore of the Senate; two members of the State Board of Education to include the chair or the chair’s designee and a member appointed by the chair; and one member appointed by the governor.

Ann Clark, CMS deputy superintendent, and Denise Watts, CMS Project L.I.F.T. learning community superintendent, are among the 11 selected.

The inaugural meeting was held Monday, Sept. 22, in the state construction office conference room at 301 N. Wilmington St. in Raleigh.

The commission was created to review the Common Core state standards and make suggestions to the North Carolina Board of Education regarding any changes to the standards.

Contact Loretta Peace-Bunch at 919807-3403 for more information. www.matthewsminthillweekly.com

Education

Concrete Roses (continued from page 1)

with complaints about the treatment of teachers, Medley added.

Medley also said the department checks on charter schools through physical visits “frequently,” but each team of consultants has a large number of schools to visit. The team was still in the process of visiting the schools, including Concrete Roses, which it had not visited before the school announced its closing.

Stone confirmed the Office of Charter Schools had not completed a physical visit to the school since the start of the school year.

The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction division of school business sent a letter to Concrete Roses on Sept. 17 stating the school had not provided the required expenditure reporting for July and August, a violation of state law. The school was funded for 300 students, but only had an enrollment of 126 students.

“Concrete Roses had not submitted the proper financial information, and (the department) was freezing access to their funds,” Medley said.

The letter stated the school received $479,084 of state funding based on the projected 300 students, and the school had already spent $285,170.

The two items resulted in the school being placed on financial disciplinary status.

The division of school business allocates funds from the projected number and then reviews enrollment after the first 20 days of school. Since the projected enrollment was 42 percent greater than actual enrollment, the school would be allocated considerably less funds.

Concrete Roses STEM Academy stated in its application the school planned to enroll about 2,400 students by its 10th year and over 400 in its first year.

The small brick building off Monroe Road did not contain a cafeteria or gymnasium. Students in sixth and seventh grades shared a classroom as well as eighth- and ninth-graders.

Concrete Roses Principal Dr. Marvin Bradley said the school had planned to purchase modular units, but cost was an issue.

The school employed 11 teachers, with one teacher assistant, with salaries ranging from $36,000 to $42,000, according to information submitted by Stone.

Stone was to receive a $95,000 salary according to a budget he submitted to the NCDPI. The division of school business is looking into how much of the state funds the school’s faculty, including Stone, received. The non-profit board of directors has fiduciary responsibility for use of those public dollars, Medley said in an email, so the state funding could have gone to finance faculty salaries.

Bradley and Stone both were unavailable to comment on the closing of the school or on the charges.

Employees without pay

Some former employees of the school claimed the financial issues went beyond the school not submitting its expenditures.

Tamika Frye, a former cafeteria manager for Concrete Roses, said she was hired in July, but did not receive her offer letter until August.

When she was offered her position, Frye said www.matthewsminthillweekly.com

Stone told her and the staff that if they worked to get the new school ready for the upcoming year during the summer months, they would be paid “some amount of money” at the end of November.

“I told my faculty if they helped me to get the school ready in the pre-planning that I would pay them something in the month of November,” Stone said, adding that the labor was an optional opportunity and that the faculty were not officially hired in the pre-planning months.

“It's not as if we were volunteers or else there would have been no discussions about pay whether it had been in November or otherwise.

So, of course, he had already informed us that we would be getting paid,” Frye wrote in an email.

Dolores Quesenberry, media representative for the North Carolina Department of Labor, said she was unsure whether the practice was legal.

“It appears that they are a private employer, and if they are, they would not be able to do what they did,” she said.

Quesenberry said the private sector would have to be paid based on the Wage and Hour Act, requiring employees be paid on a regular pay schedule. Pay periods may be daily, weekly, biweekly, semi-monthly, or monthly, in accordance with the law.

As of Sept. 17, the North Carolina Department of Labor was unable to determine whether the pay practices regarding the summer months were in accordance with state or federal law.

Frye left the school a few weeks before the school’s opening on Aug. 25 and she said she still has not been paid for the over 40 hours she worked during the summer months to get the school ready, as of Sept. 18.

Frye contacted Kebbler Williams, DPI consultant for the charters in their first year of operation, about the discrepancy of payment. Williams refused to comment regarding Concrete Roses.

Not the norm

Medley considers a school shutting down in the first few weeks of school an “anomaly.”

“It’s not something that is normal,” Medley said, adding the closing shows starting a brand new charter school is difficult and proves that there needs to be a more rigorous charter review to ensure individuals are capable of opening a new school.

The North Carolina Board of Education implemented a planning year for charter schools, in 2006, which Medley said gives charter schools’ administrations the chance to conduct training from the Office of Charter Schools and have time to gather necessary resources to open schools efficiently. Previously, charter schools would have roughly five months to open their schools.

Since the implementation of the planning year, only two schools have had to close their doors – Concrete Roses and StudentFirst Academy, a Charlotte-area school that closed in April.

The Division of School Business has received some financial information from leadership at Concrete Roses and Medley said they are looking into all expenditures. The division is in the process of evaluating all expenditures to ensure state funds were properly spent.

Find more information about charter schools at www.ncpublicschools.org/charterschools.

Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly will continue covering this story as it develops.

Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly • Sept. 24 to 30, 2014 • Page 13

Education

MeckEd (continued from page 1)

Standards, provided an insight into their classrooms and more.

MeckEd Executive Director Bill Anderson announced his concern for the future of the teaching profession.

CMS teacher separation nearly doubled from the 2009-10 school year (449 teachers left) to last school year (858 teachers left), while the number of retirements stayed relatively stagnant, with 50 teachers retiring in the 2009-10 school year and 48 in the 2013-14 school year, according to data presented by Anderson.

Anderson said fewer young people are choosing the teaching profession, with the University of North Carolina system seeing a decrease of 36 percent in interested teachers.

The director said he had concerns over so many teacher leaving the profession and less teachers entering the profession.

Ford agreed that the profession is not seen as much of a desirable profession by today’s youth.

Some speculate the often-criticized state teacher pay is the culprit for teachers leaving the county.

The current pay schedule, after alterations from the North Carolina General Assembly, gives first-year teachers a 7 percent increase, but only gives a 0.3 percent increase to veteran teachers, who have worked at least 30

years. The assembly also eliminated longevity for teachers.

Many veteran teachers feel discouraged and possibly offended by the lack of raises, Ford said, adding the state has created an environment that can make it hard for teachers to deal with.

“You work with what you have,” TenBieg said, who added that the veteran teachers still see growth in their students.

“Salaries are not the only thing, but they are important,” Anderson said.

The panel also presented their reactions to CCSS, a change in standards that went into effect two years ago, which increased standards for CMS, adding a “college and career readiness” requirement. The CCSS lay out what a student should know at the end of each grade, kindergarten through 12th grade, in mathematics and language arts.

The teachers on the panel generally did not have an issue with the new standards. “(The standards) really haven’t changed my classroom because I was already preparing my students in that way,” Ford said, suggesting individuals read the standards to differentiate between testing and implementation.

Shell agreed and said she tries to prepare her students for the workforce. She said she wished the standards had been scaffold and started with kindergarten students, who will graduate in 2024 or 2025, so the system could track that group’s progress, instead of

Page 14 • Sept. 24 to 30, 2014 • Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly

all grades starting with the standard at once.

TenBieg said she believes the standards are the expectations the system needs to have with students. She also added that changes in proficiency when adopting a new standard typically are seen between three and five years, so teachers need to have the chance to help the students adapt to new standards.

“Standards are standards and as long as we have to embrace those standards…we can,” Gabriel said.

All of the teachers on the panel said they believe the standard of success should be quantitative and qualitative.

“You can’t tell me that a child didn’t learn something in my class because they didn’t score well on a test – a child can have greater self-confidence after my class or be able to speak eloquently for themselves (after his class),” Ford said.

Shell said end-of-year test scores is secondary and workforce and college readiness is more important.

Shell, who has taught for 17 years, said standards keep changing and she wants the public and legislators to stick with a curriculum standard. She said teachers could take four or five times of carrying out the program for teachers to become “good at it, but by then it’s changed.”

The newly-appointed Academic Standards and Review Commission, who will make suggestions regarding CCSS, may consult teachers regarding the new standards. The group will hold its first meeting on Monday,

Sept. 22.

However, the teachers said they deal with more significant problems than standard changes.

Gabriel said Eastway has a high poverty rate along with students of refugees and immigrants. He said he has about 20 students on his roster who don’t speak English.

“Poverty is devastating at my school,” Gabriel said, adding poverty can affect the classroom and places pressure on children.

Ford said the experiences of his students, who live in poverty, that attend his class are unlike what he believes many individuals imagine. His students might experience achievement gaps because of the other issues the students must deal with in their everyday lives.

He seeks to prepare his students with the skillset they need to enter the workforce successfully.

The school system needs a comprehensive approach to helping students, Ford added.

“The whole game has to change.”

Both Shell and Ford, in the meantime, encourage professionals to reach out to schools to provide exposure for their students to potential careers. Ford said students in poverty do not often know the options in the workforce.

Professionals interested in reaching out to students can contact Garinger High School at 980-343-6450 or South Mecklenburg High School at 980-343-3600.

www.matthewsminthillweekly.com

Arts Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly

Arts & Culture

News & Notes

Mint Hill Arts announces October show, September Volunteer of the Month MINT HILL – The annual Mint Hill Arts People’s Choice Show will be on exhibit next month, and the nonprofit has issued a call for artists to display their items in the show.

There is no theme for the show, and all types of artwork will be accepted.

Fees are $20 per artist for Mint Hill Arts members and $40 per artist for nonmembers. Artists can enter up to four pieces in the show. Awards will be given for Best in Show, Most Beautiful, Funniest, Most Creative and Best “Junk” Art. Winners will be announced at the November show.

Intake for the show is Friday, Sept. 26, from 4 to 6 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 27, from 10 a.m. to noon. An opening reception will be held Oct. 3, a Friday, from 7 to 9 p.m. in conjunction with downtown Mint Hill’s monthly Art Around the Block Night.

Mint Hill Arts also recently named Pat Kempisty the September 2014 Volunteer of the Month.

Kempisty serves on the intake committee and as a gallery host.

Pat Kempisty She has chaired the award sponsorship committee for the past two months, seeking awards from business and corporate sponsors for judged shows at Mint Hill Arts.

“Pat has significantly increased the number of local businesses who partner with Mint Hill Arts to provide winning artists with monetary and gift certificate awards,” Sandra Smith, of Mint Hill Arts, said in a news release. “We applaud Pat for her success in this endeavor.”

Kempisty also is a watercolor artist who contributes regularly to monthly Mint Hill Arts shows and previously received a Best in Show award for her painting, “Praising at Sunrise.”

Find more information about Mint Hill Arts at www.minthillarts.org. The gallery is located at 11205 Lawyers Road, suite A. Union Symphony to kick off new season this weekend WINGATE – The Union Symphony Orchestra will kick off its ninth season with a concert “evoking an ebb-and-flow theme” this weekend. www.matthewsminthillweekly.com

The concert will take place Saturday, Sept. 27, at Wingate University’s Batte Center. Tickets cost $18 to $28 and will be sold at the door.

The professional orchestra will perform under artistic director and conductor Richard Rosenberg. The concert will feature Water Music – Hamburg’s River’s Ebb and Flow by Telemann; Sinfonia Concertante for Winds by Mozart; and Symphony No. 1 by Beethoven.

The full orchestra, youth orchestra and numerous smaller groups will perform an eight-concert season this year, in addition to a Pops series, tentatively scheduled for spring 2014. Season subscriptions are available for the full concert season, ranging from $68 to $78 for adults and $58 for students and senior citizens.

Upcoming performances include a “Spooky Spectacular” at Marvin Ridge High School in October, a concert with Wingate University’s Opera in November and multiple Christmas concerts in December. Find more information and purchase season tickets at www. unionsymphony.org or call 704-2832525.

Wingate University is located at 220 N. Camden Road.

Clint Black to perform at The Batte Center this Friday WINGATE – Country musician Clint Black will kick off Wingate University’s Batte Center’s 2014-15 season with a concert Friday, Sept. 26, at 8 p.m.

Black has written, recorded and released more than 100 songs to date, including nearly two-dozen No. 1 hit singles and additional Top 5 and Top 10 hits, according to a news release. His 1989 debut album, “Killin’ Time,” was certified Triple Platinum and was named one of Country Clint Black Music Television’s 100 Greatest Albums in Country Music History.

Black will appear with opening act Michaelis at Austin Auditorium. Michaelis is a trio of sisters Meagan, Mallory and Madeline. The group has spent the past two years collaborating with Nashville producer Dave Brainard on a debut album, the release said.

Find more information and purchase tickets at www.battecenter.org, or call the Batte Center box office at 704-2338300 or Carolina Tix at 704-372-1000.

Wingate University is located at 220 N. Camden Road.

Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly • Sept. 24 to 30, 2014 • Page 15

Around Town

guest column

Real Help

for Real Living

The day my car took my wife hostage

by Rev. Tony Marciano news@matthewsminthillweekly.com

My wife and I needed an escape from the “drama” of my family (but that’s another story) and planned a long overdue weekend getaway. Just before we were to leave, Rev. Tony I received a call Marciano that a friend’s son had been injured and was at the hospital. I needed to go.

I explained to my wife that we would go to the hospital, I would visit with

the family and then we would head out of town. En route to the hospital, she fell asleep in the car. Not wanting to wake her, I quietly exited the car, rolled up all the windows so she would be safe and locked the door before heading inside the hospital.

I was glad I went. I had a chance to minister the parents who were deeply concerned about their son. We talked for some time and then prayed before I left.

After leaving the family, I came down the elevator. As I got in the lobby, I received a text from my wife, which said, “Where are you? I can’t get out of the car, the alarm keeps going off and I need to use the bathroom.”

Being smug (as I sometimes can be), I

Page 16 • Sept. 24 to 30, 2014 • Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly

replied, “Just unlock the door and you can exit the car.” She replied, “I tried that but the alarm keeps going off.”

By this time, I arrived at the car and unlocked the door with the key fob before she gave me that look that said, “I really have to use the bathroom.”

For a moment, I was confused as to why she couldn’t just unlock and open the door, but then I figured out what happened. The car has no key.

It has a push-to-start button that ties back to the key fob. When the fob is closed, it starts the car. If the doors are locked and someone breaks a window and tries to open the door, the alarm will go off if the key fob is not nearby. By design, it is good protection for your car – it makes total sense from a security perspective. Unfortunately, no one ever told me that. Had I known, I would have left the key fob with my wife when I locked the car.

This way, if she needed to leave, the alarm would not go off. Without that key fob, my wife was taken hostage by my car, and there was no way she could get out without the alarm going off.

The older I am getting, the more I see that, just like the key fob connects me to my car, I need a connection, not to things but to significant relationships to help me navigate this

journey called “life.”

As I look at my life, that “key fob” is family, faith and friends.

My faith is not my “religious activity.” It’s not my service as executive director of Charlotte Rescue Mission – that’s not faith. It’s about a relationship to God through Christ. My faith continues to be pared down to the basics: That God incredibly loves me, and not for anything I will do.

But He loves me for me, and demonstrated that love on a cross.

Family – after 33 years of marriage, I am more in love with my wife than the day I married her. There is the joy I receive through spending time with my children and my daughter-in-law.

Friends – I am blessed with some incredible friends who bring out the best in me. When I leave their presence, I find that I am a better person.

What is your key fob? Who are the people that help you navigate this journey called “life?”

I’ll be back in two weeks. Until then, live well my friend.

Rev. Tony Marciano is the executive director of the Charlotte Rescue Mission. He is available to speak to your group. Find more information at www.charlotterescuemission. org.

www.matthewsminthillweekly.com

Calendar Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly

Calendar 9.26 & 10.3.14 Friday

Moving Movies, 7 to 9 p.m.

St. Luke Catholic Church will host an Adult Ed Fall Film Festival, “Moving Movies,” on Friday evenings through Oct. 3. The series will feature “entertaining and thought-provoking evenings with stimulating conversation and social justice awareness,” according to a news release from the church. Popcorn, coffee, candy and soft drinks will be available at the event. The series schedule includes "Simon Birch," rated PG, on Sept. 26; and "Philomena," rated PG-13, on Oct. 3. Showings take place in the church's worship center. Email adulated@stlukechurch.net for more information.

St. Luke Catholic Church, 13700 Lawyers Road, Mint Hill

9.27.14 Saturday

Matthews Community Farmers Market, 8 a.m. to noon The Matthews Community Farmers Market is open every Saturday in downtown Matthews. The event is rain or shine, and pets are not allowed.

Matthews Community Farmers Market, 188 N. Trade St., Matthews

9.27.14 Saturday

Levine Center’s Dance Fest, 12:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.

The Levine Center is hosting a dance fest, featuring dancers of all ages and styles, as a fundraiser for the non-profit center, which celebrates living and boundless aging for seniors in the community.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $6 for children 10 and under. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. Snacks and drinks will be available for purchase in addition to the performances which will include hula, clogging, ballet, ballroom, line, country-western and belly dances.

Call 704-846-4654 or email levinedancefest@ gmail.com for tickets or more information.

1050 DeVore Lane, Matthews

7.26.14 Saturday

Mint Hill Farmers Market, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Mint Hill will host its farmers market at the Carl J. McEwen Historic Village. The event is free to attend and will be held rain or shine through September.

Carl J. McEwen Historic Village, 7601 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill

Send us your stuff!

Have an event going on in Matthews and Mint Hill people should know about? Well, let us know! Send us an email listing a bit about your event, including when and where it is, any cost involved and how people can learn more or get involved. Email us at news@ matthewsminthillweekly.com. www.matthewsminthillweekly.com

9.28.14 Sunday

Food Truck Rally, noon to 3 p.m.

People are invited to an 801South Food Truck Rally & Community Outreach Event in the parking lot of Matthews United Methodist Church. The event will feature music and opportunities to socialize with new friends, while eight food truck vendors offer a variety of “summertime” foods and 16 flavors of hand-scooped ice cream, according to a news release. All trucks will accept cash and credit card payments. Find more information at www.801south.org.

Matthews United Methodist Church, 801 S. Trade St., Matthews

9.30.14 Tuesday

Carolina Theatre’s “History of Carolina Theater,” 7 p.m.

Carolina Theatre Preservation Society founder Charlie Clayton will present a special program on the “History of Carolina Theatre.”

The Foundation of the Carolinas, Charlotte Center Partners and others joined together in 2014, embarking on an ambitious revitalization plan still in the early planning stages. The goal is to bring this dazzling gem of Charlotte history back to life. Everyone is invited to come hear Charlie Clayton tell his story of one of Charlotte’s most fascinating buildings and a focal point for live entertainment in the Charlotte area.

Clayton established the Carolina Theatre Society project in 1997 with a mission to preserve the historic Carolina Theatre, which was built in 1927.

The event is free to members of the foundation, and is $5 for non-members. Visit www. carolinatheatre.us for more information.

Matthews Woman’s Club, 208 S. Trade St., Matthews

Ongoing

Technology Learning Day , 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Community Center is offering assistance for anyone who has questions about computers or needs help with a project, on the second Saturday of every month. Help will be given in a variety of areas including Mac OS and Windows users including MS Office, Internet usage, digital photography and movies, Photoshop, Adobe Acrobat, software for backing up, Quicken, networking and general how-to advice. Call 704-321-7275 or email Colten Marble, cultural recreation specialist, at cmarble@matthewsnc. gov for more information.

Matthews Community Center, 100 McDowell St., Matthews

sept.

26 Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly • Sept. 24 to 30, 2014 • Page 17

The Nat ural Sports

Billiard Is On Cue

by Andrew Stark editor@matthewsminthillweekly.com

Growing up, Sarah Billiard always thought her athletic success would come on the basketball court.

Three years ago, Billiard had already began making a name for herself on the AAU circuit and with the Lions on the basketball court, but it was a chance encounter with Covenant Day volleyball coach Heather Mills that would change her athletic focus and the volleyball landscape around the Charlotte area.

“Sarah was in the gym one day over the summer getting ready to go to a basketball tournament,” Mills said. “I went up to her and said ‘Why don’t you come to volleyball camp? Just try it and if you don’t like it you don’t have to play again.’”

Intrigued, Billiard accepted the offer and attended the camp.

“The game just fits her so well,” Mills said. “She was a natural, but I remind her all of the time that it was me who got her into volleyball.”

The next summer, Billiard was torn between basketball and volleyball. She was still excelling on her AAU basketball teams, but was becoming more interested in volleyball at the same time, so that summer she tried out for the Charlotte Juniors Volleyball 13-under team.

At that time former Charlotte Latin coach Suzie Pignetti was in the midst of leading the Hawks to nine consecutive private-school state titles and had an obvious eye for talent. She was also the coach of the CJV team Billiard was trying out for, but, down to her last roster spot, Pignetti cut Billiard from the team.

A spot eventually opened up, and Pignetti invited Billiard back to the team. Billiard’s father, Jody, went to one of the team’s first games and remembers walking into the gym when Pignetti approached him and said, “Sarah’s going to be a volleyball player. Watch her out there today.”

The rest is history. Billiard became one of the CJV’s best players that summer and has since become one of the city’s top players who has helped elevate Covenant Day to one of the region’s top programs.

“It didn’t take long to spot a talent like Sarah,” said Pignetti, who offered a laugh at the thought of cutting Billiard from the team. “She has a sparkle in her

eye and a desire to get better. One thing I really liked is she’s just determined and has the will to work as hard as she needs to.

“That year was her first club experience and really the first time that she had played at all. It was obvious that she had talent, but it was a joy to see how much she grew that year – and she grew a lot. Sarah is one of the best.”

Since her auspicious beginning on the CJV team, Billiard has blossomed on the volleyball court, although she’s still enough of a talent on the basketball court to average 17.9 points, 11.9 rebounds and 2.5 blocks per game as a freshman playing varsity.

“The first time I saw her I was like ‘Wow, she’s a basketball player,’” Covenant Day basketball coach Zach Turner said last winter. “She’s just such a great athlete and I know it sounds weird, but you can tell if someone is good at basketball just by the way they move and I saw that

Page 18 • Sept. 24 to 30, 2014 • Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly

right away. She has the potential to be a great player.

“She’s one of those athletes that can do anything.

She doesn’t play soccer, but if she did she’d be the best soccer player. If she played badminton she’d be the best at that. She’s just so athletic and you only have to tell her things once and she gets it. Sarah’s one of those rare athletes that can do anything.”

While she has undeniable talent on the hardwood, it’s on the volleyball court where she feels her skills are best utilized.

“I love basketball, but yeah, now it’s just a hobby,” she said. “I decided to focus on volleyball, but I love basketball and am not ready to give it up yet.

“After my second year of club I made the decision that I was pretty sure that I wanted to play in college and would have the chance to do so, so I’m concentrating on volleyball full time now.”

And, as the case for elite-level sophomore athletes, volleyball coaches from around the country are starting to focus on her.

As many as 40 collegiate programs – including eight SEC and seven ACC schools – have expressed interest in Billiard and as she wrapped up the interview for this story she and her father were headed on a recruiting trip to a prominent SEC school vying for her commitment.

(see Billiard on page 21) Andrew Stark/MMHW photo

www.matthewsminthillweekly.com

Sports

Game previews

All you need to know for this week’s games

Independence at East Meck

Butler at Garinger

Myers Park at Rocky River

Game time: Friday, Sept. 26, 7 p.m.

Game time: Friday, Sept. 26, 7 p.m.

Game time: Friday, Sept. 26, 7 p.m.

2014 records: Independence is 5-0; East Meck 2014 records: Butler is 4-1; Garinger is 0-3

2014 records: Myers Park is 2-3; Rocky River is 3-2

is 1-4

Last meeting: Butler won, 68-0, on Sept. 27, Last meeting: Rocky River won, 37-14, on Sept. 27, Last meeting: Independence won, 69-0, on 2013 2013 Sept. 27, 2013

Players to watch: Butler: quarterback Anthony Players to watch: Myers Park: quarterback Clay Players to watch: Independence: quarterback Ratliff-Williams, running back Benny LeMay, Norris, running backs Dominique Washington and Kelvin Hopkins, defensive back Adonis Alexander, defensive tackle Christian Colon, receiver Will Walton, running back Quantavious McNeil, linebacker Chris Mangum; East Meck: quarterback Khamal Howard, running back Byron Collins, receiver James Cornett

linebackers Christian Dixon and Jay Gibbs, lineman Jalen Cousar, receiver/defensive back Clifton Duck, H-back Jordan Huntley; Garinger: quarterback Jakeem Whitmore, running back Jordan Freeman, receivers Nichaun Way and Jerquavis Stewart, linebacker Marcus Feagins

Jaquavion Alexander, receivers Tadarin McNeil and Jontavius Hall, defensive back Bo Owens, linebacker Emrys Calin Rocky River: receiver/defensive back Jaire Alexander, running back Elijah Jett linebacker John Henderson, quarterback Naiil Ramadan, lineman Brandon Luallen

The Skinny: The Patriots continue to look The Skinny: We feel sorry for Garinger this The Skinny: After a sluggish start, the Ravens have great on both sides of the ball. The defense has deservingly received much of the credit for their torrid start, but this team is always sound offensively and this year is no different.

Hopkins is a fiery and heady leader, Walton is an emerging star at receiver and McNeil and AJ Peal have the run game in good hands.

Independence has absolutely owned this matchup, winning the past 11 meetings, and this year will be no different and should be a blowout. The Eagles got some momentum two weeks ago when Collins topped 200 yards on the ground, but they’re at least a year or two from competing in this matchup. The Patriots will roll. – Andrew Stark

week. They come in without a win and face the Bulldogs coming off a heart-breaking overtime loss to Richmond County. There will be no letdown in this one and many of the Bulldog starters should be on the sideline resting after the half. Ratliff-Williams is electric, LeMay keeps getting better and better and the offense is one of the best around. Whitmore is a dualthreat quarterback who leads the Wildcat attack and Freeman is a deft receiver and runner, giving Garinger some offensive punch.

Feagins is a force on defense, but this week none of it will matter much as Butler finally gets an easy week to regroup. – Andrew Stark

caught fire, taking three straight games. Ramadan is back under center after missing a couple of games with an illness and relies on Alexander through the air and Jett, who’s an emerging star, on the ground.

The balanced Ravens are rolling right now, but better not take the Mustangs lightly. Norris is in total control of the offense and backs Washington and Jaquavion Alexander are a dual-threat attack on the McNeil and Hall are dynamic playmakers who Myers Park gets the ball in their hands all over the field. This game comes down to defense – a staple of any good Raven team – but if they don’t come to play an upset isn’t out of the question. – Andrew Stark

W e ekly g a m e P i c ks

by Andrew Stark editor@matthewsminthillweekly.com

This football season is flying by, and this week marks the kick off of conference rivalry season with a full slate of public school teams taking the first step to a conference crown.

There are some big-time races as Butler, Independence and Rocky River will all be in the hunt for the Southwestern 4A race.

The So. Meck 8 is even more wide open with Charlotte Catholic, Ardrey Kell and Providence all having great shots at a title, and don’t rule out upstart South Meck, either, as the Sabres are playing really good football of late.

It’s another challenging week with out of conference private schools, but there are some intriguing matchups before they

open conference games next week.

To help us, we brought in Myers Park girls basketball coach Barbara Nelson, who helped guide the Mustangs to their first title last winter. She’s no stranger to winning and has worked with USA Basketball, Wingate University and guided Providence Day to seven state titles.

To Nelson, there is a common denominator to all great teams.

“I believe that a team must buy in completely to be successful – that means buying into the system, teamwork, goals, work ethic, etc.,” she said. “If there are any holdouts, especially with your leadership or best players, then there’s no chance for the team to reach their highest potential. Everyone must be accountable from top to bottom.”

Weekly Game Schedule: Butler at Garinger Fork Union at Charlotte Latin Carolina Pride at GiveNGo Fellowship Providence Day at Cuthbertson Charlotte Catholic at Berry Liberty Christian at Charlotte Christian www.matthewsminthillweekly.com

Independence at East Meck Myers Park at Rocky River Charlotte Country Day at Ravenscroft Olympic at Providence South Meck at Harding West Meck at Ardrey Kell

guest picker

andrew stark

hannah dockery

barbara nelson

Butler Charlotte Latin Carolina Pride Cuthbertson Charlotte Catholic Liberty Christian Independence Rocky River Ravenscroft Providence South Meck Ardrey Kell

Butler Charlotte Latin Carolina Pride Cuthbertson Charlotte Catholic charlotte christian Independence Rocky River charlotte country day Providence South Meck Ardrey Kell

Butler Fork Union Carolina Pride Providence Day Charlotte Catholic Charlotte Christian Independence Myers Park Charlotte Country Day Providence Harding Ardrey Kell

Last week Overall

Last week Overall

Last week Overall

(7-3) (39-14)

(7-3) (39-14)

(7-3) (40-13)

Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly • Sept. 24 to 30, 2014 • Page 19

Sports

W e e kly gam e stats Passi n g Name Daniel Jones Kelvin Hopkins Bruce Dixon Clay Norris Anthony Ratliff-Williams Caleb York John Schweitzer Naiil Ramadan

Team

Charlotte Latin Independence Carolina Pride Myers Park Butler Providence Providence Day Rocky River

Name Benny LeMay Gabe Montgomery Elijah Jett Jaret Anderson Brian Mattar Anthony Ratliff-Williams Bryon Collins Quantavious McGill

1) Independence (5-0) Previous ranking: No. 2

Games Comp. Att. Yards 4 49 89 1044 5 58 109 845 4 42 108 826 5 81 124 817 5 55 105 784 4 38 67 712 5 37 98 530 4 48 83 520

r u shin g

Team Games Rushes Butler 5 83 Providence Day 5 91 Rocky River 5 110 Charlotte Catholic 5 62 Providence 4 58 Butler 5 57 East Meck 5 60 Independence 5 44

Yards 772 593 563 560 528 524 461 430

We believe the Patriots haven’t held the top spot in our Super 7 since 2008, but this year’s version is more than deserving. Independence has simply dominated its opponents this year and, while the defense is getting much of the credit, this team is well balanced and as dangerous as ever on offene.

2) Butler (4-1) Previous ranking: No. 1

TD 12 5 3 7 3 5 4 4

receiving Name Will Walton Jaire Alexander Clifton Duck Kanyon Tuttle Tadarin McNeil Jonathan Jennings Jaylen Erwin John Biasucci Melvin Rouse

ta c k l e s

Name Christian Dixon Ricky Smith Solomon Key Jay Gibbs Will Sapyta Jalen Cousar Addison DeBord Matt Messler John DiGiovanna Chris Mangum Tyvon Vannoy Christian Colon

Team Butler Providence Day Providence Day Butler Ardrey Kell Butler Charlotte Latin Ardrey Kell Carolina Pride Independence Rocky River Independence

s ack s Name Alec Hanff Connor Miller Hunter Sheridan Lawrence Harris Matthew Gray Caleb Walker

Tackles 51 44 42 39 39 38 38 38 36 36 33 33

Team Charlotte Latin Charlotte Catholic Charlotte Latin Carolina Pride Carolina Pride Independence

Page 20 • Sept. 24 to 30, 2014 • Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly

Team Games Providence Day 5 Providence Day 5 Butler 5 Providence Day 5 Rocky River 4 Independence 5 Charlotte Country Day 4 Myers Park 4 Charlotte Latin 3 Rocky River 4 South Meck 3 South Meck 3

Games Sacks 4 7 4 6 4 6 3 4.5 4 4 5 4

3) Charlotte Christian (2-1) Previous ranking: No. 3 Charlotte Christian was listless in the opening quarter last week and let Monroe recover a late onsides kick that could have tied the game had they scored. But, a win’s a win and good teams find a way to pull it out in the end. A huge test awaits this week with Liberty Christian and an even bigger one looms next week with Charlotte Latin.

We’ve been high on the Hawks all year and they haven’t let us down in the least. This team is scary good offensively and has the makings of a very good defensive bunch, too. They beat up a very good SouthLake Christian team and shouldn’t get tested much this week. All eyes will be cast upon them when they face Charlotte Christian next week, though.

5) Providence (3-1) Previous ranking: No. 5

I nt e r c e p t io ns Name Elliott Beiser Cameron Goldean Clifton Duck Alex Cantrell Jaire Alexander Tim Marshall Peter Pitroff Tommy Wayne Melvin Rouse Aubrey Alexander Chance Kennedy John Brannon

The Bulldogs suffered a heartbreaking one-point loss in overtime to Richmond where they had a big lead late but couldn’t hold it. The Bulldogs can score – we know that – but the defense let them down last week.

It’s tough to penalize a team for a tough loss, but in the end it mars their perfect season and drops them one spot this week.

4) Charlotte Latin (4-0) Previous ranking: No. 4

Team Games Receptions Yards TD Independence 5 19 397 4 Rocky River 5 26 392 6 Butler 5 11 296 4 Charlotte Latin 4 12 294 6 Myers Park 5 21 267 4 Charlotte Latin 4 11 239 4 Carolina Pride 4 8 232 4 Providence 4 13 228 2 Charlotte Latin 3 10 204 2

Games 5 5 5 5 3 5 4 3 4 5 5 5

s up e r 7

INT 4 3 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2

SEND US YOUR STATS! Attention coaches and team statisticians: As we do each football season, this fall we will publish weekly statistical leaders. To have players from your team included, please send the information by Monday morning following each game to Andrew@ carolinaweekly newspapers.com.

The Panthers took their bye last week to get ready for the opening of conference play with Olympic. Providence is a viable contender for a conference title and have looked good early on, but the season is long and the road to a So. Meck 8 crown can be a bumpy one.

They should be right in the mix, though.

6) Charlotte Catholic (3-1) Previous ranking: No. 6 At the very least, the Cougars have shown that they are every bit as tough running the ball as they’ve been in year’s past and that they can be even better with an ample passing game. They were off last week, but get their conference title defense underway with a trip to Berry.

7) Rocky River (3-2) Previous ranking: No. 7 Rocky River got off to a rocky beginning, but have righted the ship. The defending Southwestern 4A champs get back to defending their crown this week, but get a tough test with Myers Park, a team that could give them some problems. Elijah Jett has topped 100 yards rushing each game and they have the dynamic Jaire Alexander playing all over the field. They should win, but better be focused.

Also receiving votes: Ardrey Kell (3-1) www.matthewsminthillweekly.com

Sports

Billiard (continued from page 18)

“At first having college coaches at the games and talking to them was a little overwhelming and I was like ‘Whoa, where’s this coming from?’” she said. “But now that I’m getting into it, it’s really cool. It’s interesting to see different colleges and universities and to compare them and their volleyball programs. It’s good that I’m getting to do this now, that way I can figure out what I want later and can make that decision.”

Judging by the rampant success she’s had in just three years on the volleyball court, Billiard’s list of college suitors will continue to grow.

As an eighth-grader, Billiard burst onto the scene when subbing for Shelby Nassar, a former Lion star who now plays at Wingate, when Nassar missed a couple of games with an injury.

Billiard recorded 27 kills in two games in Nassar’s absence, finished the season with 131 kills and never looked back.

Last year Billiard recorded 386 kills, 89 digs, 37 blocks and 32 aces and, with the help of a talented junior class, led Covenant Day to a 32-4 record, their best season in school history, and to the private-school state finals, where they lost, 3-1, to Charlotte Country Day. While reaching the finals was rewarding, losing the championship game left a bittersweet taste in Billiard’s and her teammates mouth.

“It was terrible that we got that far and lost, but we have just used it as motivation for this year,” Billiard said. “Last year was a game-changer for us to see that we had so much potential. At the beginning of the season, we definitely didn’t think we’d get that far,

www.matthewsminthillweekly.com

but it’s exciting. Now that we have our goal of a state championship in hand we can see it and grasp it. This year we’re really striving for it.”

And, with Billiard again helping lead a talented team which includes standouts Macy Henry, Megan Embry, Christina Goforth and her sister, Hannah Billiard, the championship game is what the Lions are focused on.

There have been some bumps in the road as this season the Lions have lost both games to Country Day and fell to public-school powers Marvin Ridge and Fort Mill, but those hiccups would make the end result of winning the title that much more rewarding.

“We’re really unified,” Billiard said. “We have great chemistry on the court, so we’re always screaming and having fun no matter what. Our confidence is high, we’re aggressive, we swing hard and our defense is on point.

“Having lost a few games is good for us – it serves as motivation. Yes, it’s hard to lose games, but it makes us come to practice every day and work on our flaws so it’s a good thing.”

So, too, is having Billiard again at the forefront of the Lion attack.

This year, she leads the team with 168 kills and has 165 digs, 23 aces and 11 blocks while upping her kill percentage for the third consecutive season.

At times, like a recent three-game stretch where she converted 36 of 59 kills, Billiard has been unstoppable. And in the biggest games, like a 3-2 win over public-school power Weddington where she recorded season-highs of 26 digs and 18 kills on Sept.17, Billiard tends to rise to the occasion.

“It’s pretty cool and sometimes it’s just me feeling it,” she said. “Whenever I get set, my focus is to hit

the ball as hard as I can and it will lead to good things, hopefully.”

Mills said it’s great to see Billiard shine in situations like the win over Weddington, but it’s also a testament to the team’s makeup.

“To go five games with Weddington and win that match, that told me something about our team that I wanted to know,” Mills said. “We were also down in a game against Latin 7-0, and came back and beat them. When we see that our girls can fight through it, that’s a good sign.

“I think our confidence is really high – with more experience comes more confidence. That’s a big thing in Sarah’s game – she loves the game and her passion leads to more confidence for herself and the team.”

With a blossoming career already underway and two seasons left to add to her statistics, Billiard is likely going to be the Lions’ all-time leader in most categories and the school’s most decorated player. But she doesn’t let that go to her head or derail her ambitions for this season.

“I try to not think about the future instead of what’s happening now,” she said. “I haven’t really thought of having to live up to the great players that have come before me. I just try to focus on winning a state championship right now, that’s really all I’m striving for.”

To help lead the Lions to a state title, Billiard said the team needs to be more consistent at times, but has what it takes to accomplish their goal.

“We need to play consistently to the end of the match,” Mills said. “We need to be aggressive and finish points. We have the numbers and talent within our team to challenge each other and get better each practice.”

Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly • Sept. 24 to 30, 2014 • Page 21

Page 22 • Sept. 24 to 30, 2014 • Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly

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Eighth Avenue, NewOctober 10018 For Release Monday, 6, 2014

ACROSS 1 Pyramid city ACROSS close to Cairo Light bender 51Mocking remarks Hole to be dug 106“Yikes!” out of?

14 Achieved a 10perfect Robbers’ takeon score 15 reply 14Obstinate In verse, “His cheekscountry were like 16 African roses, his bordering nose like a cherry!”

12-Down 15Socialite Vicinity who 17 1950’s 16inspired Mean sort “Call Me Madam” 17 “It was ___ and 19 Texts, Abbr. stormye.g.: night …”

20 Fossil fuel 18 *Traveler on the 21 Sulu and Uhura, Silk Road e.g., on the 20Enterprise Flora seen around Lent 23 1957 hit covered 22by “Watch your ___, Creedence young man!”

Clearwater in relative 1968 23Revival *Eggnog 25 First word in 26many Wing newspaper it 30names Anglers after morays 26 “___ you for real?”

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For Information Call: 1-800-972-3550 For Release Tuesday, September 30, 2014

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Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly • Sept. 24 to 30, 2014 • Page 23

Page 24 • Sept. 24 to 30, 2014 • Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly

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