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Residents have access to mental health resources PAGE 3A Friday, Oct. 2, 2026 • Vol. 26 • No. 38
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Monroe takes over holiday parade MONROE – The parade that has kicked off the holiday season in downtown Monroe for more than seven decades is back for 2026, with a new name and host. Now presented by the City of Monroe, the Monroe Christmas Parade will start rain or shine at 2 p.m. Nov. 22 in downtown Monroe. Formerly the Union County Christmas Parade, the event was
run for more than 20 years by the Alliance for Children. The city is carrying the tradition forward with the nonprofit’s blessing. Parade-goers can expect to see hundreds of floats, marching bands, classic cars, horses and princesses make their way through downtown. The parade culminates with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Food vendors will be
placed throughout downtown. Organizers encourage families to arrive early for parking and a good spot along Main Street. For the first time, the parade will include a sensory area, a quieter stretch designed for guests with sensory sensitivities. Running roughly one block, from the corner of East Jefferson Street and North Church Street to the turn onto East Franklin
Street, the zone asks participants to lower music and noise so that every family, including those for whom a loud parade can be overwhelming, has a place to enjoy the day. Businesses, churches, schools, clubs and community groups are invited to participate in the parade. Spots are limited to 150 entries, filled first come, first served, with registration open
through Nov. 13 or until the parade fills. Entry is free for schools, $25 for nonprofits and community groups and $150 for commercial entries. Guidelines and the registration form are available at monroenc. org/paraderules. INSIDE: Flip to 3A to see dozens of events this week.
College adds epidemiology concentration
Country music legend Randy Travis is joined on stage of the Randy Travis Music Festival by Mary Travis, Commissioner Errol Wedra, Vice Chair Christina Helms, Chair Brian Helms and Commissioner Clancy Baucom. Photo courtesy of Union County
WHAT'S INSIDE:
Hometown love County honors music icon Randy Travis
Immersive VR experience explores classic art, 2B
FabFest 2026 Fans of The Beatles will feel at home, 2B
MARSHVILLE – The Union County Board of Commissioners has honored country musician Randy Travis with a Lifetime Achievement Award. Commissioners presented the award Sept. 19 during the Randy Travis Music Festival in recognition of his career, contributions to country music and the pride his accomplishments have brought to Marshville and Union County. “Randy Travis’ career has taken him from Union County to audiences around the world, but Marshville and Union County will always be where his story began,” said Brian Helms, chair of the Union County Board of Commissioners. “We are proud to recognize his remarkable legacy and proud to call him one of our own.” His 1986 album “Storms of Life” launched
a career that would include 23 No. 1 singles and more than 25 million records sold. He has won many awards, including seven Grammy Awards and 11 Academy of Country Music statuettes. Travis was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry in 1986 and the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2016. “To some, this award may seem like just another on the shelf for Mr. Travis, but it’s much more than that,” Commissioner Clancy Baucom said. “It recognizes that through all his extraordinary accomplishments over the last four decades, his home community and Union County have always supported him.” Travis has continued to make improvements since suffering a near-fatal stroke in 2013, with support from his wife, Mary, and physical therapy. He remains involved in the annual Randy Travis Music Festival in Marshville.
WINGATE – Wingate University is adding an epidemiology concentration to its master of public health program, beginning in spring 2027. Program director Shanta Dube sees signs that positions for epidemiologists will be needed at federal public health agencies following reductions over the past couple of years. “I envision that in the coming years there is going to be a ramp-up of the workforce, when the dust completely settles,” Dube said. “We’re going to need earlycareer epidemiologists, Dube community practitioners, to really build that workforce back up.” The epidemiology concentration will develop professionals who will be prepared to conduct public health surveillance. Students will learn how to investigate outbreaks, analyze and interpret data, and, most importantly, apply the data to protect populations. The tech world is also starting to hire epidemiologists as well. “They want to hire epidemiologists to build AI and predictive modeling, which I think is pretty interesting,” Dube said. Students will take three mandatory courses for the concentration: community epidemiology, case studies in epidemiology and data analysis in epidemiology. In addition to these three concentration courses, they will learn about advocacy, public health programming and evaluation, leadership and policy development. Dube said the backgrounds of Wingate’s public health faculty make epidemiology a natural fit. see WINGATE, Page 3A
Search warrants lead Monroe officers to drugs and firearms MONROE – A months-long Monroe Police Department investigation resulted in an arrest and the seizure of illegal drugs, firearms and money. Detectives had been investigating Eufracio QuizapaSantillo, 31, of Monroe, who they believed was involved in gang-related activity, according to police. Police executed search warrants around 6 a.m. Sept. 25 at homes on Carr Street in Monroe and Van Eudy Road in Marshville. Investigators seized the following: • More than 10 pounds of methamphetamine
• One pound of cocaine • About half a pound of marijuana • Nine firearms • More than $15,000 in cash Quizapa-Santillo was arrested on charges that include possession of a firearm by a felon, maintaining a dwelling for the purpose of distributing narcotics, possession with intent to sell and deliver methamphetamine, trafficking in methamphetamine, conspiracy, trafficking in cocaine, possession of marijuana and exposing a child to a controlled substance. Police Chief Rhett Bolen said the operation sends a message.
“If you are bringing illegal narcotics and firearms into our city, you need to find somewhere else to do business,” Bolen said. “I’ve said it before, we are coming for you. Our detectives will put in the work, our officers will follow the evidence and we will continue working with our law enforcement partners to hold people accountable who choose to bring this kind of activity into our community.” Homeland Security, the N.C. State Bureau of Investigation and the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department assisted with the investigation.
Detectives seized more than 10 pounds of methamphetamine, one pound of cocaine, about a half pound of marijuana, nine firearms and more than $15,000 in cash. Photo courtesy of Monroe Police Department
Page 2A • The Weekly • Oct. 2, 2026
Seminary reports enrollment growth CHARLOTTE – Union Presbyterian Seminary is welcoming a growing student body this fall as students begin a new academic year across its Richmond and Charlotte campuses. “We’ve seen a 45% increase in new students this fall compared with last fall – and this is really our first snapshot of the year,” said the Rev. Lisa McLennan, dean of students. “Now that Union welcomes new students throughout the academic year, we’re excited that this incoming class is only the beginning of the students we’ll welcome this year.” The growth comes as Union Presbyterian Seminary has expanded its hybrid education model. Students in Charlotte continue in the seminary’s weekend hybrid model, gathering on campus one Saturday each month. Richmond students are beginning a weekday hybrid model built around fourday in-person residencies paired with live and self-paced online coursework. The seminary also continues its residential
Community Scholars program in Richmond, including students from five countries. “This incoming class is helping us live into something new. In a sense, some are pioneers, choosing a new model of theological education in Richmond that makes Union accessible in ways it hasn’t been before,” McLennan said. “They give me hope because they are finding ways to say yes to God’s call while continuing to serve the communities where they are already rooted.” Students come to Union from 13 states, including Florida, New Mexico, New York and Texas, and five countries. “I’m excited to welcome them into a beloved, spirit-filled community that will nurture, support and care for them across the miles and in person,” McLennan said. “They will carry from this place knowledge, experience and wisdom that will equip them to lead God’s people and help our communities love one another well.”
by Tony Marciano Columnist
I
Scenes from Union Presbyterian Seminary’s Charlotte convocation. Photos courtesy of Union Presbyterian Seminary
NEWS BRIEFS CATS names future Blue Line stop CHARLOTTE – The Charlotte Area Transit System officially announced the name of the newest Blue Line station: Atherton Mill Station. The announcement took place Sept. 25 at the new pedestrian rail crossing, located behind Publix on South Boulevard where the new station will be. “Today marks another investment in how Charlotte moves people, connects neighborhoods and creates opportunities,” said Brent Cagle, interim CEO of CATS. “Investments like these ensure our transit network meets the needs of a growing metropolitan area.” Atherton Mill Station remains under construction and is expected to open in 2028.
Southminster names ‘8 Over 80’ CHARLOTTE – Southminster will recognize eight Charlotte-Mecklenburg residents for their community contributions during the second annual 8 Over 80: Lifetime of Purpose Awards Celebration. This year’s honorees are Martha Bedell Alexander, Erskine Bowles and Nelson Schwab, Larry Dagenhart, the Rev. Dr. Clifford A. Jones Sr., Freda Nicholson, Glenn Proctor, Dorothy Counts Scoggins and Richard Vinroot. The luncheon begins at 11 a.m. Oct. 8 at Quail Hollow Country Club. Get tickets for the event at https://www.southminster.org/8over-80-2026-tickets/.
Author and poet Mark Nepo will serve as keynote speaker. Nepo is the author of 28 books, including the New York Times bestseller “The Book of Awakening” and his recent book, “The Fifth Season: Creativity in the Second Half of Life.” North Carolina journalist and author Michael Graff will lead a conversation with Nepo during the event.
Matthews adopts e-bike rules MATTHEWS – The Matthews Board of Commissioners adopted new regulations for e-bikes, e-motos and other electric-powered devices at its Sept. 14 meeting. The new ordinance is designed to clarify how different devices are classified, where they may be operated and what rules apply. The town’s initial focus will be on education, awareness and voluntary compliance. The ordinance addresses e-bikes, personal conveyance vehicles such as electric scooters, and devices that are legally considered mopeds or motorcycles. It also establishes rules for riding on roadways, sidewalks, greenways and other public spaces. The town is encouraging riders and parents to understand what type of device they or their children are using, as devices that look similar can be subject to very different rules based on their design and speed. Residents can learn more, review the new ordinance and find information about the rules
I love the adults in a Charlie Brown cartoon
for each type of device at matthewsnc.gov.
‘Practically Magic’ brings immersive Halloween event to Charlotte CHARLOTTE – Planet Podge Productions will bring its “Practically Magic” immersive Halloween experience back to Charlotte on Oct. 23. Inspired by the 1998 film “Practical Magic,” the event will be held from 6:30 to 10 p.m. at Independent Picture House, 4237 Raleigh St. Activities vary by ticket level but include an interactive experience featuring characters inspired by the film, activities, performances, a “Midnight Margarita” with alcoholic and nonalcoholic options and a screening of “Practical Magic.” Tickets range from $32 to $77, plus fees and taxes.
Quick Hits • Safewise named Waxhaw, Stallings and Mint Hill to its top-10 list of “North Carolina’s Safest Cities of 2026.” Read the report at safewise.com/research/safest-cities/northcarolina/. • TreesCharlotte has opened 2026-27 tree planting season. Keep tabs on the nonprofit at treescharlotte.org/calendar/. • The Down Syndrome Association of Greater Charlotte will hold its 29th annual Buddy Walk from 1:30 to 5 p.m. Oct. 24 at Truist Field. Register at dsagreatercharlotte.org
love the voice of the adults in a Charlie Brown cartoon. They say, “Blah blah blah blah blah.” There isn’t a husband who was showing deep concern for his wife’s problem who didn’t experience that. While she was telling the story of her woes and wanting a caring husband, all he heard was, “Blah blah blah blah blah.” He knew the worst thing he could ever do was to give her advice on how to solve her problem. NEVER do that. The wife doesn’t want any counsel – helpful or not. She just wants you to listen. Recently, someone needed to meet with me. It sounded urgent. When they started telling their story, I went “gray rock.” It’s an expression that means I didn’t react. I knew that anything I said would not be received well. I listened politely. When I walked away, I had no idea why we had met and what the purpose of the meeting was. What happens when we don’t want to be quiet? What happens to relationships when we allow our emotions to boil over in a verbal tirade? I’ve learned there are “dysregulated” and “regulated” relationships. Look at the difference: • Raises their voice vs. speaks with a steady tone • Interrupts constantly vs. listens before responding • Assumes the worst vs. seeks understanding • Needs to win vs. solves the problem • Reacts without thinking vs. pauses before reacting • Blames instead of listens vs. owns their part • Leaves everyone emotionally drained vs. leaves room for reply Scripture says, “A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.” Be the “safe place” for others. 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.
CATS to launch Better Bus service improvements, beginning Oct. 5 CHARLOTTE – The Charlotte Area Transit System will implement the first wave of service improvements made possible by last year’s transit funding referendum beginning Oct. 5. Schedule changes include Route 61x (Arboretum/ Waverly Express) and Route 64x (Independence Blvd Express). “This is the moment where our commitments turn into visible action,” Interim CEO Brent Cagle said. “The community asked for a more reliable, more frequent and more connected transit system. With this October service change, we’re beginning to show how that investment translates into improvements that people will experience every day.” The Better Bus program modernizes the region’s bus network through expanded frequency, improved reliability, new bus routes, microtransit zones and upgraded bus stops, shelters and other passenger amenities. The program is part of CATS’ 2055
Transit System Plan. “Our residents placed their trust in a long-term plan to strengthen and modernize transit across the county,” said David Howard, chair of the Metropolitan Public Transportation Authority. “These early improvements show that the plan is moving from vision to reality and benefits are beginning to reach people in their everyday lives.”
Routes with 20-Minute Service • Route 6 (Kings Drive): 20-minute weekday service
Service Upgrades Effective Oct. 5 Complete maps and details for October service change are available at charlottenc. gov/CATS/Plans-Projects/Service-Change
New Weekday Midday Service (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.) • Route 64x (Independence Blvd Express): Hourly service in both directions • Route 177 (North Meck Connector): This new bus route will serve the following
Routes with 15-Minute Service • Route 5 (Airport Sprinter): 15-minute weekday service; 20-minute weekend service • Route 9 (Central Avenue): 15-minute service every day
Increased Weekday Trips: • Route 53x (Northlake Express): three additional peak trips (13 daily trips total) • Route 61x (Arboretum/Waverly Express): three additional trips (12 daily trips total)
destinations hourly on weekdays: Uptown Charlotte, Huntersville Gateway Park & Ride, Huntersville Northcross Park & Ride, Cornelius Park & Ride and Davidson Gateway. Microtransit Service Updates • New Microtransit Zone in West Charlotte, launching with service until 9 p.m. daily. Serving destinations such as West Boulevard, Wilkinson Boulevard, Walmart (Wilkinson Boulevard), Charlotte Regional Farmers Market, South Charlotte Veteran Affairs Clinic and Blue Line Woodlawn Station. • North Meck Micro Zone hours extended to 9 p.m. daily
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The Weekly • Oct. 2, 2026 • Page 3A
Hood: Washington can’t ease our traffic jams by John Hood Columnist
RALEIGH – The federal government projects trilliondollar deficits as far as the eye can see. Perhaps that’s the problem: Washington’s fiscal irresponsibility has become so reckless, its costs so gargantuan, that the issue is hard for the average voter to grasp and, thus, prioritize. So, I will try to make concrete what may seem abstract, and local what may seem far away. Let’s talk about traffic jams in Raleigh, Charlotte and other North Carolina communities. As frustrating as traffic jams are, and as wasteful of time and resources, the alternative is worse: little traffic at all. That broad swaths of North Carolina continue to add people, companies and job opportunities is an affirmation that our state remains an attractive mix of natural and human resources – and that our leaders have, for the most part, governed more wisely than their counterparts in other parts of the country. Still, policymakers need to upgrade and expand the transportation infrastructure needed to accommodate such growth and lay the foundation for future investment, inmigration and family formation. For airports, seaports and rail lines, the mechanisms for financing such capital projects are straightforward. These enterprises, be they public or private, can easily charge their users for their services. These funds, in turn, pay for infrastructure projects or are used to cover principal and interest
for the loans or bond issuances required to finance them. With roads and bridges, the story is more complicated. Users still bear the vast majority of the cost of the infrastructure itself, albeit indirectly through fuel taxes and vehicle registrations rather than direct charges (i.e. tolls). More importantly, most of the value of vehicular transportation can be found not in asphalt, concrete, signage or safety protection but in the vehicles themselves, nearly all of which are privately owned, operated and insured. Over time, however, the rough approximation of a user fee represented by per-gallon fuel taxes and per-vehicle registration fees became less of a meaningful approximation. Vehicles traveled more miles per gallon. Electric and hybrid vehicles also altered the math. North Carolina and other states responded by raising tax rates, hiking registration fees, redirecting tax revenue from the sale of auto parts and services to highway purposes, and reducing the extent to which any highwayrelated revenues are diverted to non-highway purposes. Faced with the same mismatch between highway demand and highway-related revenue, federal policymakers made less-defensible choices. Congress has routinely subsidized the federal Highway Trust Fund with general revenues, sometimes paying for nearly a third of annual expenditures that way – even as Washington ran massive annual deficits. Before 2008, explains the nonpartisan Tax Policy Center, highway tax revenue dedicated to the federal trust fund was
“sufficient to pay for outlays from the fund.” Since then, Congress has transferred hundreds of billions of dollars from general revenues to the federal highway program, including $118 billion in 2021 alone. According to a recent Congressional Budget Office projection, the federal program will require another $150 billion infusion from outside the system to keep the Highway Trust Fund solvent through the end of the 2031 fiscal year. Beyond that year, the projections are likely to get gloomier, not sunnier. Whatever you think of using federal income taxes to pay for local road projects, this practice is going to end sooner rather than later. Federal debt now exceeds America’s annual economic output. The Social Security and Medicare “trust” funds will be exhausted in about seven years. Even if the current military operations against Iran end sometime soon, it would be unreasonable to expect a sudden outbreak of stability around the world’s key economic chokepoints (the straits of Hormuz, Bab ElMandab, Taiwan and Malacca, for example). Because massive federal deficits will keep interest rates painfully elevated, I believe future presidents and lawmakers will be forced into serious actions. One of them will be to curtail if not end federal subsidies for highways.
Craft Swap Union West Regional Library invites teens and adults to swap scrapbooking, paper craft and journaling supplies. Participants can bring supplies. uclnc.org 11 a.m.; 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail
5:30-6:30 p.m.; 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe
John Hood is a John Locke Foundation board member. His books “Mountain Folk,” “Forest Folk” and “Water Folk” combine epic fantasy with American history (FolkloreCycle.com).
CALENDAR Oct. 2 Book Club UW Morning Book Club discusses “A Guardian and a Thief” by Megha Majumdar at Union West Regional Library. uclnc.org 10-11 a.m.; 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail Baby Storytime Children listen to stories during Baby Storytime at Southwest Regional Library. uclnc.org 10:30-11 a.m.; 1720 Cuthbertson Road, Waxhaw Beats ‘n Bites Chairmen of the Board performs beach music during a Beats ‘n Bites concert at Stumptown Park. A food truck and beer service will be available at 5 p.m., followed by music at 6 p.m. The Town of Matthews hosts the event. 5-9 p.m.; 120 S. Trade St., Matthews
Oct. 3 Steps and Stories Edwards Memorial Library hosts a monthly audiobook walking book club through downtown Marshville. Participants of all ages should bring a personal device with an audiobook. The walk is weather permitting. uclnc.org 9-10:30 a.m.; 414 Hasty St., Marshville Steps and Stories Union County Library’s Monroe branch hosts a monthly audiobook walking book club through downtown Monroe. Participants of all ages should bring a personal device with an audiobook. The walk is weather permitting. uclnc.org 9-10:30 a.m.; 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe Steps and Stories Southwest Regional Library hosts a monthly audiobook walking book club through downtown Waxhaw. Participants of all ages should bring a personal device with an audiobook. The walk is weather permitting. Meet at the Water Tank. uclnc.org 9-10:30 a.m.; 115 McDonald St., Waxhaw Craft Show The 25th annual Holiday Craft Show features more than 120 vendors at Monroe Aquatics and Fitness Center. Admission is free. monroenc.org 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; 2325 Hanover Drive, Monroe Nature Day Habitat and Wildlife Keepers, the Town of Matthews and the N.C. Wildlife Federation’s Great Outdoors University host a free family event at Squirrel Lake Park. Activities include fishing, STEM activities and a scavenger hunt. matthewsnc.gov 10 a.m.-1 p.m.; 1631 Pleasant Plains Road, Matthews Pop-Up Market The Bowl hosts the Bowl Street Pop-Up Market featuring Charlotte-area artisans, makers and small businesses. Vendors will offer handmade goods, specialty items, gifts and art. The market is free and open to all ages. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; 15119 Bowl St., Charlotte Pop-Up Market More than 80 vendors offer boutique items, arts and crafts, handmade goods and other merchandise at Mint Hill Madness Pop-Up Market at Mint Hill Veterans Memorial Park. Food trucks will also be on site. minthillevents.org 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; 8850 Fairview Road, Mint Hill Baby Storytime Children listen to stories during Baby Storytime at Southwest Regional Library. uclnc.org 10:30-11 a.m.; 1720 Cuthbertson Road, Waxhaw Fancy Nancy Tea Party Union County Library’s Monroe branch hosts a Fancy Nancy Tea Party. The party features a story and beginner ballet moves. The program includes pink lemonade and frosted animal crackers. Wear fancy attire. uclnc.org 10:30-11:30 a.m.; 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe
Oct. 3-4
Night Out The Town of Stallings invites the community to connect with the Stallings Police Department during National Night Out at Stallings Park. stallingsnc.org 6-8 p.m.; 340 Stallings Road, Stallings
Renaissance Festival The Carolina Renaissance Festival returns for its 33rd season with eight weekends of entertainment in a 25-acre storybook village. Attractions include interactive theater, circus acts, fairies, dragons, mermaids, falconry, music, dance and jousting. An artisan marketplace features demonstrations. Tickets cost $36 for adults and $22 for ages 5-12. Ages 4 and younger get in free. Carolina.RenFestInfo.com 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; N.C. 73 at Poplar Tent Road, Huntersville
Night Out The City of Monroe hosts Monroe Night Out at the Bobby G. Kilgore Law Enforcement Center. The event lets the community get to know the Monroe Police Department better. monroenc.org 6-8 p.m.; 450 W. Crowell St., Monroe
Oct. 4
Storytime Children listen to stories during Storytime at Union County Library’s Monroe branch. uclnc.org 9:30 or 10:30 a.m.; 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe
Apraxia Walk Apraxia Kids presents the Walk for Apraxia at Pineville Lake Park. Register at https:// act.apraxia-kids.org/walk-for-apraxia 10 a.m.; 909 Lakeview Drive, Pineville
Oct. 5 Storytime Children listen to stories during Storytime at Edwards Memorial Library. uclnc.org 9:30 or 10:30 a.m.; 414 Hasty St., Marshville Tiny Yogi’s Yoga Union County Library’s Monroe branch offers yoga for toddlers during Tiny Yogi’s Yoga. Bring a mat or towel. uclnc.org 10-10:30 a.m.; 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe Route 66 Adventure Southwest Regional Library invites children to explore Route 66 through a life-size board game. uclnc.org 10-11 a.m. or 3:30-4:30 p.m.; 1720 Cuthbertson Road, Waxhaw Video Game Trivia Union West Regional Library invites teens to test their video game knowledge with 40 trivia questions across four categories. uclnc.org 5-6 p.m.; 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail Music of Route 66 Southwest Regional Library celebrates Route 66’s 100th birthday by talking about the recording artists connected to it. uclnc. org 5:30-6:30 p.m.; 1720 Cuthbertson Road, Waxhaw
Oct. 6 Storytime Children listen to stories during Storytime at Union County Library’s Monroe branch. uclnc.org 9:30 or 10:30 a.m.; 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe Storytime Children listen to stories during Storytime at Union West Regional Library. uclnc.org 9:30 or 10:30 a.m.; 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail Storytime Children listen to stories during Storytime at Southwest Regional Library. uclnc.org 9:30 or 10:30 a.m.; 1720 Cuthbertson Road, Waxhaw Weaving Wonders Children in grades K-2 listen to a reading of Eric Carle’s “The Very Busy Spider” and create a spider web craft at Southwest Regional Library. uclnc.org 3:30-4:30 p.m.; 1720 Cuthbertson Road, Waxhaw Bedazzled Constellations Teens and adults create bedazzled constellation art at Union County Library’s Monroe branch. uclnc.org 5:30-6:30 p.m.; 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe Canvas & Culture Adults learn about the art of Hispanic artist Fernando Botero at Union County Library’s Monroe branch. Participants will create a picture inspired by his work. uclnc.org
DJ Games Big Pop Trivia hosts DJ games at The Trail House. bigpoptrivia.com 7-9 p.m.; 6751 Old Monroe Road, Indian Trail
Oct. 7
Storytime Children listen to stories during Storytime at Union West Regional Library. uclnc.org 9:30 or 10:30 a.m.; 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail Storytime Children listen to stories during Storytime at Southwest Regional Library. uclnc.org 9:30 or 10:30 a.m.; 1720 Cuthbertson Road, Waxhaw Book Signing Paul Domowitch talks about his latest book, “Just Give Me a Chance to Fail: The Life of NFL Hall of Fame Linebacker Sam Mills,” at Park Road Books. parkroadbooks.com 2-3:30 p.m.; 4139 Park Road, Charlotte Unwind with Art Adults drop into Unwind with Art to work on coloring, journaling or crafting at Union West Regional Library. uclnc.org 4:30-6:30 p.m.; 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail Bike Night Kristopher’s Sports Bar & Restaurant holds Bike Night on Wednesdays with music and drink specials. 5:30-8:30 p.m.; 250 N. Trade St., Matthews
UCPS launches new strategic plan MONROE – Union County Public Schools has released a new strategic plan that outlines goals and priorities for the next five years. Strategic Plan 2026–2031 was unanimously approved by the Union County Board of Education this spring. The plan has four strategic priorities: safe and supportive culture; academic success, innovation and future ready; recruitment and retention; and parent and community partnerships. “Now is the time to build on our academic gains, proven innovative programming and community partnerships,” Superintendent Andrew Houlihan said. “This new plan will move us forward and help us to identify key strategies that will lead to higher student
outcomes.” UCPS senior leaders received input from employees, students, parents, community members and the school board. Their perspectives helped identify and shape the plan’s focus areas. “As we move forward, let us remember that a strategic plan is more than words written on paper,” board chairman Jimmy H. Bention Sr. said. “It is a commitment to action, accountability, collaboration and results.” As UCPS implements the plan, staff will monitor the work and report on progress quarterly. Reports will be presented to the strategic planning, technology and transportation board committee. Updates will be posted at ucpsnc.org/strategicplan.
Union County expands mental health resources MONROE – Union County has launched Healthier U, a free, confidential online mental health and well-being platform now available to every resident. Powered by CredibleMind, a national organization used by public health departments across the country, Healthier U provides 24/7 access to more than 10,000 evidence-based mental health resources. Residents can explore selfassessments, guided wellness content and connections to local community services, with no account required and no personal data collected. Mental health is one of the most pressing and underserved public health needs in our communities. Consider these numbers, many of which are found in the 2025 Community Health Assessment: • Nationally, nearly 1 in 5 adults live with a mental health condition. • According to the Mental Health America survey, nearly 1 in 5 youth, ages 12-17, experienced a major depressive episode in the past year in North Carolina. • The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline averages nearly 16,000 contacts (calls, texts and chats) across North Carolina each month. • Adults in Union County report an average of 4.5 poor mental health days per month. • Among those who needed mental health care but did not receive it, the most commonly cited barrier is not knowing where to go for help. Healthier U removes that barrier by meeting residents where they are, on any device, at any hour, entirely on their own terms. “Union County Public Health is committed to connecting every resident with the tools they need to live a healthier life,” said Traci Colley, public
health director. “Healthier U is a gift to our community as a free, confidential resource that doesn’t require residents to make an appointment, share their name or navigate a complicated system. We are proud to make this available to every person in Union County.” The platform is designed for early intervention and prevention, reaching residents before a challenge becomes a crisis. Through Healthier U, users can complete scientifically validated mental health assessments, explore curated content across more than 200 wellness topics, access a local resource directory including crisis lines and county services, and connect to personalized recommendations tailored to their needs and learning style. Content is available in multiple languages, with full Spanish support. “We are facing a mental health crisis in our country and the demand for mental health services is higher than ever,” said Deryk Van Brunt, CEO of CredibleMind. “We are thrilled to partner with Union County Public Health and provide on-demand, reliable self-care and mental health resources to help its residents improve their overall wellbeing and flourish.” Union County is among a growing number of public health departments nationwide leveraging the CredibleMind platform to extend their reach into communities that may not access traditional mental health services. All Union County departments, including the library, veterans services, parks and recreation, and more, are licensed to promote and link to the platform, making it a community-wide resource at no additional cost. Healthier U is available now at unioncounty.crediblemind. com.
WINGATE
dovetails with an agreement Wingate’s Department of Public Health signed in June with Cone Health in Greensboro that enables the health care system’s residents, doctorallevel clinicians and physician assistants to earn their MPH after completing only 33 credit hours of coursework, as opposed to the standard 42, because of their prior experience. “That applicant pool is going to be clinicians, and so an epidemiology concentration is a natural fit,” she said. “It will prepare them in health care settings for outbreaks, to be able to surveil their patient population and provide the value-based care they’re being tasked to provide, really focusing on population health.” On the web: wingate.edu/ academics/graduate/master-ofpublic-health
Oct. 8 Storytime Children listen to stories during Storytime at Southwest Regional Library. uclnc.org 9:30 or 10:30 a.m.; 1720 Cuthbertson Road, Waxhaw Play with Purpose Preschool children build cardboard rocket ships and watch a space-themed short during Play with Purpose: Astronaut at Union County Library’s Monroe branch. uclnc.org 10:30-11 a.m.; 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe Paws to Read Children read to a therapy dog during Paws to Read at Union West Regional Library. uclnc.org 3:30-4:30 p.m.; 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail Play and Chat Children ages 7-12 practice Spanish and English through games during Jugando y Hablando/Play and Chat at Union County Library’s Monroe branch. uclnc.org 4-5 p.m.; 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe Invasive Plants Adults learn about invasive plants during Invasive Plant ID and Removal at Southwest Regional Library. uclnc.org 5:30-6:30 p.m.; 1720 Cuthbertson Road, Waxhaw
Oct. 9 Cruise-In The City of Monroe hosts a Car Cruise-In in Downtown Monroe. monroenc.org 6-8 p.m.; Main Street, Monroe
(continued from page 1A)
Dube spent 14 years as an epidemiologist with the Centers for Disease Control, while the program’s other full-time faculty member, assistant professor Alyssa McNulty-Nebel, spent three years with the CDC’s Epidemic Intelligence Service. Adjunct faculty members Jessica Pavlick and Allison Seidel also have epidemiology backgrounds. Dube said Wingate also started the epidemiology concentration because of demand from potential students. “A lot of students have asked in past years if we have an epidemiology concentration, and we’ve had to turn them away, because we didn’t,” she said. The new concentration also
Page 4A • The Weekly • Oct. 2, 2026
BUSINESS BRIEFS Bank promotes leader to area exec
Cirba Solutions completes EV pilot
NEWTON – Peoples Bank has promoted Rafael Intriago to senior vice president and area executive. He’ll focus on expanding the bank’s presence in South Carolina while overseeing commercial banking relationships, commercial real estate and commercial and industrial financing, loan and deposit growth and market Intriago development. Intriago joined Peoples Bank in 2009 and most recently served in leadership roles overseeing metropolitan markets and the Ballantyne area. He has helped expand the bank’s commercial banking presence in Charlotte, Raleigh and other North Carolina markets. “His understanding of the opportunities across the Carolinas, combined with his ability to connect businesses with thoughtful financial solutions, makes him well suited to lead our continued commercial banking expansion throughout the region,” CEO Bill Cable said. Intriago is a former board member of United Way of North Carolina. He was also recognized as the 2014 Businessman of the Year in Charlotte.
CHARLOTTE – Cirba Solutions and General Motors have completed a pilot program that used materials recovered from old GM electric vehicle batteries to manufacture new battery cells. Cirba Solutions processed the batteries at its Ohio recycling facility, recovering nickel, cobalt and manganese. The materials were refined and used to produce cathode active material containing 100% recycled versions of those three minerals. Ultium Cells, a joint venture between GM and LG Energy Solution, used the recycled material to produce new battery cells. GM then assembled the cells into battery modules and packs at manufacturing facilities in Michigan and Tennessee. The companies said the first vehicles powered by batteries containing the recycled materials rolled off production lines in September.
Water Babies expands to region CHARLOTTE – Water Babies has begun offering swimming and water safety lessons in the South Charlotte area. The swim school launched classes in June at the Wingate by Wyndham Matthews swimming pool. Lessons are available from birth through early childhood and focus on building swimming skills, confidence and water safety. “The launch of Water Babies in South Charlotte has been a really exciting step for me as a new business owner, and for our community,” franchisee Kayla Mason said. “We can’t wait to help local families create special memories in the pool while giving children the confidence and water safety skills they need to enjoy the water safely.” Children ages 4 and older can participate in the company’s Swimvincible program, which focuses on developing swimming skills and independence. On the web: waterbabiesusa.com/ swimming-lessons/southcharlotte-nc/
Skiptown tweaks member program CHARLOTTE – Skiptown has relaunched its membership program with three plans offering benefits ranging from dog park access to grooming and daycare discounts. The Charlotte-based dog care company replaced its previous three-tier structure in July with the VIP Plan, Clean Pup Plan and Social Pup Plan. Skiptown reported 8,000 active memberships across its three locations at the end of the second quarter of 2026. On the web: skiptown.io
Startups eligible for NC IDEA grants DURHAM – Three Charlotte startups are among 19 semifinalists selected for NC IDEA’s fall 2026 SEED grant cycle. Brokerteq Tech, Scenergy and TheoryNXT advanced from a pool of 195 applicants from across North Carolina. Semifinalists have been invited to submit full proposals before finalists are selected to present to a review panel that includes entrepreneurs, investors and industry experts. Grant recipients will be announced Nov. 12 during the NC IDEA Ecosystem Summit in Wrightsville Beach. NC IDEA SEED provides $50,000 grants to early-stage companies. The funding is intended to help companies validate markets, reduce risks associated with early-stage development and prepare for growth through investment or revenue.
Movement Mortgage hires VP INDIAN LAND – Movement Mortgage has hired Tina Kosur as vice president of mortgage technology. Kosur will oversee the technology roadmap for the company’s core mortgage and lending systems, focusing on tools used by loan officers, operations teams and borrowers. She brings more than 20 years of experience in the mortgage and financial technology industries. Kosur most recently spent six years at Blue Sage Solutions. “Tina understands our business from the loan officer’s desk forward, and she is the kind of leader this moment demands as we leverage technology to dramatically level up our ways of working across our industry,” said Lyra Waggoner, chief operating officer at Movement Mortgage.
NC TECH names firms as finalists RALEIGH – The North Carolina Technology Association has announced the finalists for the 2026 NC TECH Awards, which recognize companies, organizations and individuals in the state’s technology sector. Companies with connections in the Charlotte area include City of Charlotte, DebtBook, Discovery Education, E2D, Fastbreak AI, Jackrabbit Technologies, Paymentus, Software Toolbox and Volt Technologies. Finalists and winners were selected through a two-stage review process led by accounting firm Cherry Bekaert in partnership with an independent selection committee. Winners will be announced during the NC TECH Awards on Nov. 16 at the Sheraton Imperial RTP.
NCAOC up for NC TECH Award RALEIGH – The North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts has been named a finalist for a 2026 NC TECH Award in the Public Sector Innovation category. NCAOC was recognized for its Case Statistics Dashboard, an online tool providing public access to data about cases in North Carolina courts. Users can filter and compare information by county, court type and case category and examine data on filings, dispositions and case aging.
Carolina Handling launches streaming TV campaign CHARLOTTE – Carolina Handling has launched its first Connected TV advertising campaign as the company marks its 60th anniversary and promotes its expanded warehouse services. The 15-second commercial, “The Warehouse Playbook,” launched Sept. 25 and will run for 30 days in major Southeast markets on streaming platforms including Hulu, Peacock and Paramount+. The commercial highlights the company’s automation, conveyor systems, warehouse technology and material handling services.
Charlotte Area Chamber events CHARLOTTE – The Charlotte Area Chamber of Commerce hosts Coffee with the Chamber and Speed Networking.. • Members mingle during Coffee with the Chamber from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Oct. 6 at FlexEtc, 900 Pressley Road, Charlotte. Members get in free. Others pay $5. Register in advance. • Young professionals make new connections during Speed Networking from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Oct. 8 at The Dunhill Hotel, 237 N. Tryon St., Charlotte. Members get in free. Others pay $25. Register in advance. Visit charlotteareachamber.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Matthews Area Chamber events MATTHEWS – The Matthews Area Chamber of Commerce hosts Fall for Matthews and a ribbon cutting. • Members celebrate the 15th anniversary of Mad Jack’s Records & Comics and Precious Restorations with a ribbon cutting from 11 a.m. to noon Oct. 7 at 315 W. John St., Matthews. The ribbon will be cut at 11:30 a.m. • The chamber presents Fall for Matthews from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 10 at Stumptown Park, 120 S. Trade St., Matthews. The festival includes arts and crafts vendors, food, music and children’s activities. Admission is free. Visit matthewschamber.org to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Mint Hill Chamber events MINT HILL – The Mint Hill Chamber of Commerce hosts Coffee with the Candidates and a Monthly Member Luncheon. • Members meet candidates running for office during Coffee with the Candidates from 8 to 9:30 a.m. Oct. 2 at the Mint Hill Chamber of Commerce, 11524 Bain School Road, Suite 602, Mint Hill. The free event is open to the public. Register in advance. • Members mingle during the Monthly Member Luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 13 at Olde Sycamore Golf Plantation, 7500 Olde Sycamore Drive, Mint Hill. Members pay $18. Others pay $24. Register in advance. Visit minthillchamberofcommerce.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
South Charlotte Chamber events PINEVILLE – The South Charlotte Metro Chamber of Commerce hosts a Chamber Monthly Coffee and Roundtable Discussion. • Gregory Marsh, of Edward Jones Financial Services, speaks at the Chamber Monthly Coffee and Roundtable Discussion from 8 to 9:30 a.m. Oct. 14 at Hilton Garden Inn Charlotte Pineville, 425 Towne Centre Blvd., Pineville. Admission is free. Register in advance. Visit scmchamber.org to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Union County Chamber events MONROE – The Union County Chamber of Commerce participates in a groundbreaking. • Members celebrate the groundbreaking of Marvin Commons by Jones Homes USA from 9 to 9:30 a.m. Oct. 13 at the corner of Tom Short and Rea roads, Marvin. Register in advance. Visit unioncountycoc.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Quick Hits • Wegmans Food Markets is scheduled to open its doors to the public Oct. 14 at 11550 North Community House Road, Charlotte.
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Charlotte City Manager Marcus Jones speaks during the Skilled to Build launch Sept. 22 at Charlotte Water. Photo courtesy of City of Charlotte
Charlotte launches Skilled to Build initiative CHARLOTTE – The City of Charlotte has launched Skilled to Build, an initiative to prepare the business community for opportunities from more than $25 billion in transportation and transit investments generated by the new one-cent sales tax. More than 100 participants attended the public launch event Sept. 22 at Charlotte Water. They represented small businesses and industries such as construction, higher education, government and nonprofit. The launch focused on the three pillars of Skilled to Build: Small Business Readiness, Mobility Workforce Readiness and Contract Readiness. “Today’s successful launch was the beginning of a larger movement
to make Charlotte more connected, more competitive and more prosperous through historic investments in transit and transportation,” City Manager Marcus Jones said. Staff from the city’s Economic Development Department, Office of Workforce Development, Contracting and Procurement Department, and Charlotte Department of Transportation presented details on the city’s preparations for mobility projects. Staff also shared information on how businesses can access contracting opportunities and upcoming projects that are expected to begin over the next six months. On the web: charlottenc.gov/Growthand-Development/Skilled-to-Build
Union County invites businesses to learn procurement process MONROE – Union County’s Procurement and Contract Management Department will explain to companies how to provide products and services to county departments. The drop-in event, Doing Business with the County, will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 16 at the Simpson Events Center, 307 Cultivation Circle, Monroe. The event is open to businesses of all types and sizes. No registration is needed. Businesses can learn the basics of doing business with the county, find out how to stay informed of new opportunities and refresh their knowledge if they have previously worked with the county. While government procurement is often associated with construction and repair work, Union County’s procurement team may seek work from a variety of professional services. Generally, procurement and contract management oversees contract awards “based on open competition and transparency, supporting the goals of securing value and promoting fairness,” according to the county’s policy. “Doing business with the county should be a clear process, not a mystery,”
said Corey Brooks, procurement and contract management director. “We’re here to share the information you need, answer your questions and give you the confidence you need to work with us when opportunities arise.” County departments involved in the process that will be at the event include: • Procurement and Contract Management: Helps connect departments with vendors who provide goods and services, for everything from office supplies to construction projects. • Finance: Manages and approves vendor payments. • Economic Development: Works to bring new jobs and industry to the area while supporting local workforce development efforts. “Whether you have a landscaping company, provide office services or have a product you think could help the county, this event is a friendly place to learn how to start a partnership,” Procurement Specialist Kyle Hodge said. Visit the procurement and contract management department page at unioncountync.gov to learn about procurement services, bidding process, policies and more.
COVID-19 fraud conviction lands former councilwoman in prison by Alan Wooten Contributor
(The Center Square) – Telling a former Charlotte councilwoman the public “is tired of being ripped off,” a federal judge rejected a more lenient plea agreement and sent the defendant to prison for 10 months. Tiawana Brown, on the city council for a two-year term ending in 2025, pleaded guilty in February to fraud charges tied to $146,665 in COVID-19 relief funds. Daughters Tijema Brown, 32, and Antionette Rouse, 34, were each involved but avoided time behind bars. In the U.S. District Court for the Western District of North Carolina, Judge Kenneth Bell told the trio, “These programs are set up at a time of great desperation for a lot of people. The public is tired of being ripped off.” Tiawana Brown, a 55-year-old woman previously in prison for four years via fraud charges decades ago, and her daughters owe the Small Business Administration $137,280.09 in restitution. The daughters agreed to forfeit $51,666 in fraud proceeds, and the mother $22,500. Tiawana Brown has paid nearly $21,000 of the restitution thus far. Bell further chastised the mother for telling Charlotteans the prosecution was
politically motivated knowing that it was not, and for bringing her daughters into the scheme. Tiawana Brown, prosecutors said, used about $15,000 obtained through fraudulent pandemic relief loan applications for her personal birthday party upon turning 50. At least 13 applications with false or fraudulent information were submitted to the Economic Injury Disaster Loan program and the Paycheck Protection Program under the guise of businesses. The scheme was hatched immediately in the pandemic era. Prosecutors say the applications went in between April 2020 and September 2021. The CARES Act, containing both programs, was signed on March 27, 2020. The EIDL program launched on March 30, and the PPP program on April 3. Matthew Warren, from the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte, prosecuted the case and took a scolding from Bell as well. The judge said prosecutors were manipulating the guidelines to keep probation possible in a plea agreement with a lighter sentence that was ultimately declined. Brown made history in 2023, becoming the first felon elected to Charlotte City Council. She defeated Republican James Bowers 78.5%-21.2%.
REGIONAL The Weekly • Oct. 2, 2026 • Page 1B
Immersive Experience Blume Studios will explore the works of two of history's greatest artistic minds in a new immersive experience. A 32,000-square-foot stage will showcase the works of Leonardo di Vinci and Michelangelo in 360-degree projection and virtual reality. See story on 2B
Photo courtesy of Layers of Reality
ARTS BRIEFS Symphony extends Ryan's contract CHARLOTTE – The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra has extended Grammy Awardwinning Music Director Kwamé Ryan’s contract through the orchestra’s 100th anniversary season in 2031-32. Ryan began his tenure in 2024. He received a four-year contract extension as he and the orchestra enter their third season together. “From the very beginning, I felt a special bond with this orchestra,” Ryan said. “The musicians and the entire CSO family have created an environment where artistic curiosity and collective ambition flourish.” During Ryan’s tenure, the symphony has returned to national broadcasts through American Public Media’s “Performance Today,” completed a $50 million campaign and introduced the Spotlight Artist Series and CSO 360 concerts. Ryan won the Grammy Award for Best Opera Recording in February for Houston
Grand Opera’s recording of Jake Heggie’s Intelligence. He has also conducted the Metropolitan Opera, New York Philharmonic and Washington National Opera.
Sculptures unveiled at library CHARLOTTE – University City Partners and Charlotte Mecklenburg Library have unveiled a new public art installation featuring characters from popular children’s books. The Storybook Sculpture Collection was created by Charlotte artist Janeva Tyree and includes characters from “The Very Hungry Caterpillar,” “The Cat in the Hat” and “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!” The collection, located at University City Regional Library, is intended to encourage children to engage with books.
Choir school plans fall concert CHARLOTTE – Charlotte Choir School will open its 2026-27 season with its annual
Fall Concert at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 16 at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church. The concert will feature all five of the school’s choirs, with singers ranging in age from 7 to 18. Artistic Director Elizabeth Lenti will conduct the performance. Tickets are available at charlottechoirschool. org/concerts, with a limited number expected to be sold at the door. The school also opened its annual Holiday Greenery Sale on Sept. 28. The fundraiser offers fresh wreaths and garland sourced from the North Carolina mountains, with some products available for nationwide shipping. Proceeds from the sale support the school’s music education programs and financial assistance for families.
Renaissance festival returns Oct. 3
The 25-acre festival features interactive theater, circus acts, fairies, dragons, mermaids, falconry demonstrations, music, dancing and horseback jousting three times daily. New entertainment includes Cirque Du Sewer, featuring trained cats and rats, throughout the season and Blades & Bravery on Oct. 3, 4, 10 and 11. Other limited-run acts include Gabs the Fool, Tiny Girl! Big Show! and The Lynx Show. The festival also includes artisan demonstrations, games, rides, food and beverages. It runs from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays at N.C. 73 and Poplar Tent Road. Tickets cost $36 for adults and $22 for children ages 5 to 12. Children 4 and younger are admitted free. Parking is free. On the web: Carolna.RenFestInfo.com
HUNTERSVILLE – The Carolina Renaissance Festival will return for its 33rd season Oct. 3 to Nov. 22.
see ARTS, Page 2B
Page 2B • The Weekly • Oct. 2, 2026
LOUD & LIVE Oct. 2 • Americana Beer. Co.: Analog Crash • Franklin Court Grille: Opa-Locka • Mary O’Neill’s: Adam Daniels • Middle C Jazz: The Pedrito Martinez Group • Neighborhood Theatre: Jammy Buffet • Spectrum Center: Kacey Musgraves • The Fillmore Charlotte: Grupo Duelo • The Underground: Noah Rinker
Oct. 3 • Amos’ Southend: Failing Andrea • Evening Muse: Brandon Wisham; Six Foot Blonde and Noah Richardson • Franklin Court Grille: Distillery Cats • Mary O’Neill’s: The Barry David Project • Middle C Jazz: The Pedrito Martinez Group • Neighborhood Theatre: Gable Price and Friends • Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre: Dermot Kennedy • Southern Range Brewing: Me and Lulu • Spectrum Center: Weezer • The Underground: Lily Rose • Visulite Theatre: Mike Faulkenberry & Friends • Waxhaw Taphouse: Queen City Siren
Oct. 4 • Evening Muse: Magenta Wave • Neighborhood Theatre: Sophie Hunter
Oct. 5 • Evening Muse: Open Mic • Neighborhood Theatre: Weatherday • The Fillmore Charlotte: Artemas
Oct. 6
“Leonardo versus Michelangelo: The Epic Battle of Genius” explores the work of Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. The audience will get to decide who did it best via real-time voting. Photos courtesy of Layers of Reality
• Amos’ Southend: Willow Avalon • Evening Muse: Tosco Music Open Mic • Neighborhood Theatre: Kyle Gordon • The Underground: Rebecca Black
Oct. 7
Blume Studios hosts premiere of 'Leonardo versus Michelangelo' CHARLOTTE – Blumenthal Arts will present the North American premiere of “Leonardo versus Michelangelo: The Epic Battle of Genius” from Nov. 12 to March 27, 2027, at Blume Studios. Tickets are on sale at BlumenthalArts. org. The presentation marks the start of an ongoing partnership with Layers of Reality, the company behind Barcelona’s IDEAL Digital Arts Center. “This partnership gives Charlotte a direct connection to one of the most innovative immersive arts organizations in the world and allows us to build something that can last here,” said Tom Gabbard, CEO and president of Blumenthal Arts. “Layers of Reality selected Blume Studios as its first major North American home, and that is a significant vote of confidence in our organization, our city and what we can create together.” Blume Studios’ 32,000-squarefoot stage will be transformed into an immersive experience combining 360-degree projection, exhibition design, theatrical storytelling, interactive galleries, virtual reality and a metaverse environment. The experience is set against the artists’ 1503 rivalry, when Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo were commissioned to create competing murals for the Hall of the Five Hundred in Florence’s Palazzo Vecchio. The exhibition explores their lives, creative processes and artistic legacies through physical and digital environments. Visitors can weigh in on their rivalry and cast votes throughout the exhibition. The 90-minute experience unfolds
across eight distinct rooms, including: • An Eternal Rivalry: Introduces the artists and the competition that brought them together in Florence. • Florence 1500: A 360-degree virtual reality experience transports visitors to Renaissance Florence, where they can explore the artists’ studios, walk through the city and enter the Hall of the Five Hundred. • Contrasting Biographies: Inspired by Renaissance “studiolos,” the room explores the artists’ lives, development and work through physical and digital elements. • Battle Royale: A metaverse environment allows visitors to explore a virtual museum at full scale, viewing masterpieces up close before choosing which works to save or condemn. • The Moment of Truth: Visitors submit their final vote for Team Leonardo or Team Michelangelo. “Our ambition has always been to create experiences that do more than entertain. They should spark curiosity, encourage learning and bring people together through culture and technology,” said Jordi Sellas i Ferrés, founder and artistic director of IDEAL Barcelona and CEO of Layers of Reality. “Leonardo versus Michelangelo perfectly reflects that philosophy, combining history, art, immersive technology and active audience participation into a single experience. We searched carefully for the right partner to introduce this vision to North America, and we found that partner in Blumenthal Arts. Together, we are creating a model that we believe will redefine how cultural experiences are shared around the world.”
• Neighborhood Theatre: Verygently • Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre: Wave to Earth • Spectrum Center: Olivia Rodrigo • The Underground: Finn Wolfhard
Oct. 8 • Evening Muse: The Takes • Iron Thunder Saloon and Grill: Shady Ln • Neighborhood Theatre: Shawn James • Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre: Gregory Alan Isakov • Spectrum Center: Olivia Rodrigo • TD Amp Ballantyne: Clint Black & Midland • Truliant Amphitheater: Fuerza Regida • Visulite Theatre: Jenna Davis
Charlotte • Amos’ Southend: 1423 S. Tryon St. • Evening Muse: 3227 N. Davidson St. • Middle C Jazz: 300 S. Brevard St. • Neighborhood Theatre: 511 E. 36th St. • Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre: 1000 NC Music Factory Blvd. • Spectrum Center: 333 E. Trade St. • The Fillmore: 820 Hamilton St. • The Underground: 820 Hamilton St. • TD Amp Ballantyne: 11115 Upper Ave. • Truliant Amphitheater: 707 Pavilion Blvd. • Visulite Theatre: 1615 Elizabeth Ave.
Mint Hill • CharBar No. 7: 7312 Town View Drive • Stooges Pub & Grub: 13230 Albemarle Road
Monroe • Home Brew Taphouse & Tunes: 215 S. Main St. • Local Logic: 130 S. Main St.
Waxhaw • Cork & Ale: 113 E. North Main St. • Great Wagon Road Distilling: 122 W. North Main St.
ARTS (continued from page 1B)
Latinx artists featured in Ventanas Culturales’exhibition CHARLOTTE – ENLACE Charlotte will showcase the work of emerging Latinx artists through its Ventanas Culturales exhibition at Obra Collective in the VAPA Center. The exhibition brings together artists and works from rotating installations held across Charlotte since April. The works will remain on display throughout Hispanic Heritage Month at Obra Collective, 700 N. Tryon St. Ventanas Culturales is a partnership between ENLACE Charlotte and the City of Charlotte’s Creative Growth Grant. Featured artists include Ana Adams, Edmundo Pacheco, Ernesto Moreno, Héctor Rogelio, Juan A. Davila, Julieta Picardi, Khori Rodriguez, María Eugenia L, Maylen García and Teddy Espinales. Learn more at enlacecharlotte.org.
Downtown Jazz Jam to support music scholarship program
FabFest-Charlotte to welcome Beatles fans CHARLOTTE – FabFest-Charlotte’s Beatles Festival offers a two-day tribute to The Beatles and their music. The festival returns for its seventh year Oct. 2 and 3, presented by Tosco Music and CG Financial Services with support from Arts & Science Council, City of Charlotte and Corning. The festival kicks off with The Tosco Music Beatles Tribute at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 2 at Knight Theater. The concert features more than a dozen local and regional acts performing Beatles songs across multiple genres, plus audience sing-alongs throughout the night. Performers include The Taxmen, Beatles 4 Sale, Revelwood Mission, Moden Alibi, Cole Thannisch, Blue Jay Way, Persona Bell, Anthony Robustelli, The Commonwealth Divide and Reeve Coobs. The festival continues Oct. 3 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Central Piedmont Community College’s Parr Center. Festival-goers can expect indoor and outdoor Beatles-themed fun with live music on two stages, family-friendly activities, speakers, contests, food trucks, games and vendors. Piedmont Music Therapy will be onsite from 10 a.m. to noon for inclusive music-making to help guests of all ages and abilities explore Beatles music with various percussion instruments and manipulatives. An art contest will showcase artists of all ages, skill levels and mediums.
Tickets for the Tosco Music Beatles Tribute are on sale at https://tix. blumenthalarts. org/. See FabFestCharlotte. org for full event details, ticket discounts and event galleries. Photo courtesy of Tosco Music
ROCK HILL – The Downtown Jazz Jam will highlight a scholarship fund for college music majors during its next gathering Oct. 4 at Slow Play Brewing. The free event runs from 6 to 8 p.m. and will support the Reginald L. Dennis Memorial Scholarship Fund, named for a Charlotte musician who died in 2022. Donations to the fund are optional. “Reggie was not only a gifted musician; he was a friend,” said the fund’s board president Letron Brantley. “He believed in people. There are many talented, young musicians who simply need someone to say, ‘We see you, and we believe in you.’” Jazz musicians of all ages and skill levels may participate, with music ranging from swing and blues to R&B and ragtime. Musicians should bring their own instruments and amplifiers. A drum set, bass guitar amplifier and small PA system will be provided. Slow Play Brewing is at 274 Columbia Ave. Attendees younger than 21 should be accompanied by an adult.
Explore the tradition of tap dancing WAXHAW – Taplife Hero Foundation will bring dancers, teachers and families together around the continued development and preservation of tap dance at the third annual LIT Tap Dance Experience. The event takes place from 9:45 a.m. to 8:15 p.m. Feb. 6, 2027, at the Waxhaw Woman’s Club, 200 E. South Main St. Taplife Hero Foundation
supports the continued growth, preservation and accessibility of tap dance through education, mentorship and community-centered programming. Organizers said bringing LIT to communities such as Waxhaw is part of a larger investment in access, mentorship and the future of tap dance and tap dance education. Organizers said the goal
is to create opportunities for dancers to train, connect and experience tap as a living tradition rather than something that exists only on stage. The Waxhaw event will welcome participants from the Carolinas and the surrounding region for a day of education and performance. A portion of the evening is open to the public. Participants
and guests can watch historical and contemporary tap dance footage before the day culminates in the LIT Talent Showcase, a live tap dance performance that is also open to the public. Want to go? Registration is available at https://www.zeffy.com/enUS/ticketing/lit-tap-danceexperience-wahaw-nc.
The Weekly • Oct. 2, 2026 • Page 3B
Beef Breakfast Burritos Recipe courtesy of Beef Loving Texans Cook time: 30 minutes Servings: 4 Lime-Cilantro Cream: 1/2 cup reduced-fat dairy sour cream 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh cilantro
P
FEATURE IMPACT
eople often think of beef as a dinner staple, but it deserves a spot at the breakfast table, too. Endlessly versatile and packed with protein, beef can turn everything from breakfast burritos to sandwiches into hearty, satisfying fuel for the day. Breakfast is important even though mornings are busy, according to a study published in “Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine,” which found children who eat breakfast tend to have higher math scores, fewer absences and better on-time attendance at school. That’s why Beef Loving Texans is inviting families to join its free 30-Day Breakfast Challenge. You’ll receive breakfast inspiration, nutrition and meal prep tips and encouragement to help your household start the day right. If you need something you can grab on the way out the door, Beef Breakfast Burritos combine sauteed ground beef, peppers and
onions with scrambled eggs and flavorful sauces, all wrapped inside a warm tortilla. For a make-ahead breakfast or brunch, whip up a Beef and Veggie Quiche, folding beef and vegetables into a savory mixture of eggs, cheese and cream before baking it in a flaky, buttery crust. Or give leftover steak a second life with a Beef and Spinach Breakfast Sandwich, a portable take on the classic cowboy-style steak and eggs that combines leftover beef with spinach, cheese and eggs. Whether you’re feeding growing kids before school or trying to instill healthier habits for yourself, the challenge helps to make consistent, protein-rich breakfasts feel realistic, even on your busiest mornings. Discover more recipes and join the 30-Day Breakfast Challenge at BeefLovingTexans.com/BreakfastChallenge.com.
Beef and Spinach Breakfast Sandwich Recipe courtesy of Beef Loving Texans Cook time: 20 minutes Servings: 4
4 eggs or 1 cup egg substitute 1/2 cup chopped fresh baby spinach 1/2 cup diced tomatoes nonstick cooking spray salt (optional) pepper (optional) 4 slices reduced-fat Swiss cheese 12 ounces leftover cooked beef (such as steak, prime rib roast, pot roast or deli roast beef), thinly sliced 4 whole-wheat round, thin sandwich breads, split and toasted In medium bowl, combine eggs, spinach and tomatoes. Spray large nonstick skillet with nonstick cooking spray; heat over medium-high heat until hot. Add egg mixture; cook 2-4 minutes, or until eggs are almost set, stirring occasionally. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, if desired. Divide egg mixture into four separate portions in pan. Evenly top with cheese and beef. Remove from heat and cover. Let stand 1-2 minutes, or until cheese is melted. Place one egg portion on each bread bottom. Close sandwiches with bread tops; serve immediately.
Beef and Veggie Quiche Recipe courtesy of Beef Loving Texans Cook time: 59 minutes Servings: 8
Nonstick cooking spray 1 refrigerated pie crust (1/2 of 14.1-ounce package) 1/2 pound ground beef (80% lean or leaner) 1 tablespoon beef sausage seasoning mix 1 cup fresh baby spinach 1/4 cup cut fresh asparagus 1/4 cup chopped onion 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper 6 eggs 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream Preheat oven to 350 F. Coat 9-inch pie plate with nonstick cooking
12 ounces ground beef (93% lean or leaner) 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped 2 teaspoons ground ancho chili powder 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 4 eggs, beaten 2 tablespoons water 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh cilantro nonstick cooking spray 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional) 1/3 cup reduced-fat shredded Mexican cheese blend or shredded cheddar cheese 4 medium spinach or plain flour tortillas (10-inch diameter), warmed salsa (optional) To make lime-cilantro cream: In small bowl, combine sour cream, lime juice and cilantro. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use. To make burritos: Heat large nonstick skillet over medium heat until hot. Add ground beef, bell pepper, onion, chili powder and cumin; cook 8-10 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160 F, breaking into small crumbles and stirring occasionally. Pour off drippings, as necessary. Remove beef mixture from skillet; keep warm. In medium bowl, combine eggs, water and cilantro. Spray same skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Pour into skillet; cook over medium heat 2-3 minutes, or until scrambled, stirring occasionally. Season with salt, if desired. Stir in beef mixture and cheese; cook 1 minute or until heated through, stirring occasionally. Spoon beef mixture evenly in row across center of each tortilla, leaving 1-inch border on right and left sides. Fold right and left sides of tortilla over filling. Fold bottom edge up over filling and roll up; cut diagonally in half. Serve with lime-cilantro cream and salsa, if desired. Cooking Tip: Cooking times are for fresh or thoroughly thawed ground beef. Ground beef should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160 F. Color is not a reliable indicator of ground beef doneness. Substitution: 1 cup egg substitute may be used in place of beaten eggs and water.
spray. Unfold pie crust on flat surface, pressing out fold lines with fingers. Place crust in pie plate, crimping edge as desired; set aside. Heat large skillet over medium heat until hot. Add ground beef and seasoning mix; cook 4-5 minutes, breaking into small crumbles, stirring occasionally. Pour off drippings, as necessary. Add spinach, asparagus, onion and bell pepper to skillet; cook 3-5 minutes, or until softened. Cool slightly. In large mixing bowl, whisk eggs and cream. Gently stir in beef mixture. Pour into prepared pie crust; sprinkle with cheese. Bake 40-45 minutes, or until egg mixture is set and just beginning to brown. Cool 5-10 minutes; cut into wedges.
DINING SCORES Health departments in Mecklenburg and Union counties inspected these restaurants from Sept. 17 to 23:
Charlotte (28209) • Chick-fil-A, 1540 E. Woodlawn Road – 98.5 • Legion Brewing, 5610 Carnegie Blvd. – 94 • Platform Sports, 3216 South Blvd. – 94.5 • Topsail Steamer, 1630 E. Woodlawn Road – 98.5
Charlotte (28210) • Leo’s Italian Social, 4720 Piedmont Row Drive – 95.5 • Panera Bread, 5940 Fairview Road – 99 • Park Place Restaurant, 10517 Park Road – 94.5 • Tous Les Jours, 4625 Piedmont Row Drive – 99
Charlotte (28211) • Charley’s Philly Steaks, 4400 Sharon Road – 97 • Leroy Fox, 705 S. Sharon Amity Road – 98 • No Knife Chicken & Waffles, 3500 Latrobe Drive – 94.5 • Nordstrom Cafe, 4400 Sharon Road – 97.5 • Steak 48, 4425 Sharon Road – 98
Hotel plans Halloween tea • Zaxby’s, 8905 Albemarle Road – 96
Charlotte (28270) • 220 C Banh Mi & Coffee, 10020 Monroe Road – 98 • Chili’s Grill & Bar, 2521 Sardis Road N. – 97.5 • Pizza Hut, 9614 Monroe Road – 94
Charlotte (28277) • Bes Noodles and Banh Mi, 11318 North Community House Road – 93 • Big View Diner, 16637 Lancaster Hwy. – 93.5 • Cava, 6307 Providence Farm Lane – 96 • Chopt Creative Salad, 8022 Providence Road – 94.5 • First Watch, 6311 Providence Farm Lane – 95.5 • Imperial Treasure, 14815 Ballantyne Village Way – 90 • Improper Pig, 9855 Sandy Rock Place – 94 • Libretto’s Pizzeria, 15205 John J. Delaney Drive – 96 • McAlister’s Deli, 15127 Ballancroft Pkwy. – 100 • Viva Chicken, 12206 Copper Way – 98 • Viva Chicken, 11641 Waverly Center Drive – 91.5
Indian Trail
• Chef Greene (food stand), 10734 Monroe Road – 96 • Cici’s Pizza, 1804 Windsor Square Drive – 96 • Curry Gate, 1240 Matthews-Mint Hill Road – 96 • Dairy Queen, 1819 Matthews Township Pkwy. – 99.5 • Greco Fresh Grille, 3335 Siskey Pkwy. – 98.5 • Lanzhou Hand-Pulled Noodles, 929 Park Center Drive – 96 • Platform Coffee, 11011 Monroe Road – 97 • Starbucks, 2233 Matthews Township Pkwy. – 97
Monroe • Birrias y Tacos Casa Vieja, 723 N. Charlotte Ave. – 96 • Carniceria Morelos, 1510 Miller St. – 96 • Cook Out, 1410 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 93.5 • El Vallarta, 1890 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 98 • ELK of Monroe, 301 E. Franklin St. – 98.5 • Firehouse Subs, 2319 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 96 • Franklin Court Grille, 232 E. Franklin St. – 97.5 • JD’s Corner Grill, 6004 Concord Hwy. – 94 • Mas Vida, 2300 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 98.5 • Mayfair Seafood, 2568 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 100 • McAlister’s Deli, 2803 W. U.S. 74 – 98
Pineville
• Kabuto 51, 7724 Pineville-Matthews Road – 98.5 • Nakato Japanese Steakhouse, 8500 PinevilleMatthews Road – 96.5 • Rice & Spice Thai Street Food, 8314 PinevilleMatthews Road – 97.5 • The Wine Shop at Foxcroft, 7824 Fairview Road – 97
• Athenian Grill, 614 Indian Trail Road S. – 96.5 • Burgers & Soul, 2004 Clover Hill Road – 96.5 • Culver’s, 5211 Old Charlotte Hwy. – 98.5 • Firehouse Subs, 14039 E. U.S. 74 – 99.5 • Jersey Mike’s, 6580 Old Monroe Road – 93.5 • Popeyes, 13800 E. Independence Blvd. – 92.5 • Sileo’s NY Deli, 6455 Old Monroe Road – 98.5 • Superfood Cafe, 6461 Old Monroe Road – 96.5 • Taqueria La Unica, 4305 Old Monroe Road – 96
Charlotte (28227)
Matthews
• Bojangles, 6915 Albemarle Road – 95
• Bojangles, 11137 E. Independence Blvd. – 92.5
• Greco Fresh Grille, 6400 Weddington-Monroe Road – 98.5 • Hot Wok, 5943 Weddington-Monroe Road – 97.5
Charlotte (28226)
• China Express, 315 S. Polk St. – 90 • Fujisan, 11425 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 99 • Great Wall Chinese Kitchen, 10500 Centrum Pkwy. – 95 • Jay Bhavani, 525 N. Polk St. – 93 • Zygma European Grocery, 804 N. Polk St. – 100
Wesley Chapel
CHARLOTTE – The Ballantyne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, will host a Halloweenthemed afternoon tea featuring gothicinspired desserts, savory bites, scones and other confections. Boo at The Ballantyne will run from 1 to 4 p.m. Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 at the hotel, located at 10000 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy., Charlotte. Tickets cost $70 for adults and $35 for children ages 12 and younger, plus tax and a service charge. Reservations are available through OpenTable or by calling 704-248-4330.
Whiskey Club to hold tasting CHARLOTTE – The Ballantyne’s October Whiskey Club will spotlight The Dalmore, a Highland single malt Scotch whiskey. The evening includes a curated tasting accompanied by selected bites to complement each pour. The club meets at 6:30 p.m. Oct. 2 at The Ballantyne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, 10000 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy., Charlotte. Tickets cost $110 per person, plus 8.25% tax and a 24% service charge. Reservations are available through OpenTable or by calling 704-248-4330.
Page 4B • The Weekly • Oct. 2, 2026
5 Hidden Ways to Save on Home Insurance Costs
W FEATURE IMPACT
hen you’re planning home improvements, you’re often thinking about improving the comfort, safety, aesthetic or value of your home. Many changes and renovations have the added bonus of unlocking insurance discounts, but these savings opportunities can easily fly under the radar when you aren’t actively on the lookout for them. “Homeowners tend to think about their insurance when they buy the house or when they have a claim, but a lot can change in between,” said Larry Anderson, director of underwriting operations at Mercury Insurance. “Something as simple as reviewing your policy with your agent once a year can help make sure your coverage still reflects your home today and identify improvements or other factors that may qualify you for additional savings.” The experts at Mercury Insurance, a multiple-line insurance carrier emphasizing competitive rates and excellent customer service, encourage homeowners to consider these five ways to save on home insurance costs.
Updating Older Parts of the Home
As a home ages, it’s wise to look at what parts and systems may be deteriorating and need upgrades for modernity or safety reasons. Replacing older electrical, plumbing or other major systems can protect your home from emergencies and loss risks. Depending on the state you live in, your specific policy and the improvements you made, it can also qualify your property for an updated-home insurance discount. Keep records of major improvements – including receipts, work permits and information about when the work was completed – and plan to discuss the upgrades during your next insurance review.
Adding Protective Technology
Beyond replacing the batteries in your smoke detectors, you can outfit your home with a variety of protective devices that make a difference to insurers. Consider options like monitored burglar and fire alarms, smart water sensors and automatic water shutoff systems designed to detect problems before they become major losses. Remember, while security upgrades can make your home less risky to insure, they won’t save you money if your insurer doesn’t know you’ve installed them.
Improving Resilience to Damage
If you live in an area prone to extreme weather or other hazards, resilience upgrades could both safeguard your home and access insurance savings. Depending on your location, qualifying improvements could include a stronger roof, wildfire mitigation measures or flood defense options. Local insurance agents can provide more specific guidance on ways to make your home less vulnerable to damage – or whether you’re eligible for discounts because of work you’ve already completed.
Photos courtesy of Shutterstock
Questions to Consider During Your Annual Insurance Checkup
Qualifying for Community Programs
Even if you haven’t personally made renovations to your home, certain changes in your community could help you save on insurance. That could include local wildfire mitigation measures, membership in a qualifying homeowners association or other neighborhood characteristics that affect coverage options, but specific programs vary by location.
An annual insurance review is an opportunity to look for savings and update coverage. Use these questions as a jumping-off point for discussions with your agent: n What has changed about my home? n What has changed about my property or community? n Have my circumstances changed? n Are discounts available today that weren’t when I purchased my policy? n Does my coverage still reflect what it would cost to repair or rebuild my home today?
Reviewing Insurance Products and Discounts
Whether something significant has changed in your home or community or not, it’s always valuable to review your insurance coverage on a regular basis. For instance, there may be new products or discounts that simply didn’t exist when you originally purchased your policy. Beyond savings considerations alone, ask your agent questions to make sure your coverage still reflects your circumstances and goals. “Finding savings is always welcome, but the bigger goal of a policy review is making sure your insurance keeps pace with your life and your home,” Anderson said. “A house isn’t static. We improve it, maintain it and protect it in new ways over time. Your insurance should keep up with those changes.” For more information on homeowner coverage and discount eligibility, visit MercuryInsurance.com.
Causey: Charge batteries safely Union County gardeners suffered injuries, along with a firefighter responding to the fire. In Monterey County, California, a fire broke out at a lithium-ion battery storage facility, triggering a massive wildfire-like blaze. The fire forced the evacuation of more than 1,000 nearby residents. Schools were closed and a state of emergency was declared. Modern lithium-ion batteries provide a long-lasting energy source. But they can heat up while being charged. Taking precautions when charging these batteries can minimize the risk of fire. Here are some ways you can help protect your loved ones, your home and your neighborhood when charging lithium-ion battery-powered devices: • Buy only listed products. When buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery, look for the stamp from a nationally recognized testing lab on the packaging and product. That means it meets established safety standards. Some products sold online and in stores may not meet safety standards and could increase the risk of fire. • Charge devices safely. One key is to use quality charging
by Mike Causey Insurance Commissioner
E
very year in early October, many state insurance departments join the National Fire Prevention Association and fire departments across the country in observing National Fire Prevention Week. This year, National Fire Prevention Week runs from Oct. 4 to 10, which includes Oct. 9, the anniversary of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. The 2026 campaign continues to emphasize safe charging habits for lithium-ion batteries, the kind of batteries that power our cell phones, tablets, laptops, power tools, e-bikes, scooters and many toys. This year’s National Fire Prevention Week theme is “Charge into fire safety: Safe charging is a superpower.” A couple of lithium-ion battery fires in January 2025 illustrate the seriousness of these devices overheating. One occurred in Queens, New York. The other in Monterey County, California. In the Queens fire, a lithium-ion battery sparked a townhouse fire, igniting several e-bikes stored in a driveway. Three residents
equipment, such as the cables that come with your device. If you need a new charger, buy one from the manufacturer or one that the manufacturer has approved. • Charge your device on a hard surface, like a table or countertop. Charging it on a pillow, a bed or a sofa could cause a fire. • Don’t overcharge your device. Here’s another helpful tip. When your battery has run its course, dispose of it properly. Experts recommend not throwing lithium-ion batteries in a regular trash or recycling bin. They could catch fire. Instead, recycle your device or battery at a safe recycling station. You can visit call2recycle.org and enter your zip code to find a nearby battery recycling drop-off spot. Lithium-ion batteries make our lives more convenient. With the proliferation of such battery-powered devices, it’s more important than ever to practice fire safety habits. Please join me in this effort to keep our families and homes safe. Mike Causey serves as North Carolina insurance commissioner.
plan symposium MONROE – The NC State Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Association of Union County will bring together garden enthusiasts and experts for a symposium. “Gardens Begin With a Dream: Explore Design Possibilities for Our Region” takes place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Jan. 30 at the Union County Agricultural and Event Center, 3230 Presson Road, Monroe. Grow your knowledge and realize your garden dreams with presentations from the likes of: • Suzanne Wilkerson, awardwinning landscape design and installation expert and owner of Ambiance Garden Design. • Paula Gross, educator, botanist
and former associate director of the UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens. • Debbie Roos, sustainable agriculture agent in Chatham County and winner of a Wildlife Conservationist of the Year for her Pollinator Paradise Garden. • Shannon Currey, horticultural educator with Izel Native Plants. This event will offer networking opportunities and information for gardening projects. The day will include vendors, exhibitors and a catered lunch. Early registration begins Nov. 1 and costs $60 through Nov. 30. The cost increases to $75 on Dec. 1. On the web: mastergardeners unioncountync.org/designsymposium
BBB offers three ways to avoid delivery scams
• Take precautions to ensure a safe delivery – If you have a valuable or fragile item delivered to your home, purchase shipping insurance. Always get tracking numbers for your purchases and check the shipping progress periodically. • Watch out for texts, calls or emails about a missed delivery – Legitimate delivery services usually leave a “missed delivery” notice on your door. If you receive a missed delivery notice, examine the form carefully to make sure it is authentic and only then follow the instructions. Keep track of what you’ve ordered to better understand what is coming and when. Don’t click on links; go to the delivery carrier’s website directly or log in and use the retailer’s tracking tools. • Don’t leave packages sitting on your doorstep – Packages left sitting outside are particularly vulnerable to theft. To ensure safe delivery, have your package delivered to your workplace or a trusted friend or neighbor who will be home to accept delivery.
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