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Voters to decide on 2 tax amendments PAGE 4A Friday, Oct. 9, 2026 • Vol. 26 • No. 40
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Balknight to remain as acting CMS leader CHARLOTTE – Melissa Balknight has agreed to remain as the acting superintendent of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools as the board conducts its search for a permanent leader. She had announced plans to retire on Jan. 1, 2027, before the school board’s Sept. 22 vote to fire Superintendent Crystal Hill. Balknight will stay on to help
with the leadership transition. Balknight has more than 30 years of experience in public education, including leadership roles in two of the state’s largest school districts. “Dr. Balknight is a leader who can keep Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools on track to continue year-over-year growth in student achievement,” said Gregory
“Dee” Rankin, school board chair. “Her experience and historical knowledge will be invaluable in maintaining stability as the board searches for its next permanent superintendent. The board is grateful for her willingness to stay on to lead the district.” The school board credits Balknight for emphasizing family and community engagement
and recognizing that progress comes from listening to families and creating opportunities that respond to students’ needs. “What I enjoy most about this work is building relationships with our families and community,” Balknight said. “When we listen to one another and work together, we create stronger schools and better opportunities for every
student.” The school board approved a charter establishing an ad hoc committee on Sept. 29 to oversee steps needed to advance a superintendent search. Community engagement sessions will be held to get feedback on qualities needed for the district’s next leader.
Jackson: Data centers should pay fair share RALEIGH – Attorney General Jeff Jackson argued that data centers should pay their fair share for the resources they use and the strain they put on North Carolina’s energy grid. In a filing with the North Carolina Utilities Commission, Jackson contends that data centers should be in a separate rate class and be allowed to build and generate their own clean energy. “Trillion-dollar tech companies can afford to build the infrastructure they need to power their data centers. North Carolina families shouldn’t have to pay for that,” he said. “Our position is that we must protect ratepayers from getting hit with the costs of these data centers.” Earlier this year, Jackson asked the commission to create a separate proceeding in Duke Energy’s rate cases that focused on a new dedicated rate class for data centers and other large energy users. Duke projected that more than 80% of the new energy demand it will need to meet comes from new data centers and other large users of energy and has proposed building new power generation and transmission assets to meet this demand. This separate proceeding helps protect ratepayers and the state’s energy infrastructure from carrying the burden of data center costs. Jackson previously argued in another proceeding that Duke Energy should be required to: • Make the standard contract it uses with data centers public. • Update that standard contract to include the ability for data centers to bring their own clean energy, which reduces strain on the grid and on ratepayers. • Report any variations from its standard contract. If Duke changes the terms of its contract with a large energy user, North Carolinians should know. • Update its load forecasts more frequently. Duke should revisit its projects every 90 days instead of every six months, so that the energy infrastructure Duke wants to build reflects the actual demand. • Pause new natural gas plant development while the Utilities Commission and the Attorney General’s Office evaluate load forecast updates.
WHAT'S INSIDE:
Mint Hill Madness Three-day festival will feature fireworks, cannon firings and live music, 2B
The Goddard School in Matthews welcomed Charlotte-area journalists to answer students’ questions about their work. The activities were part of the school’s Wonder of Learning program, which emphasizes inquiry-based education and encourages children to explore their interests through questions and investigation. Photos courtesy of The Goddard School
Hands-on learning MATTHEWS – The Goddard School in Matthews has been named to the early childhood education provider’s 2026 Circle of Excellence. The recognition honors topperforming Goddard Schools nationwide based on criteria measuring school performance, educational quality and family experience. The Matthews school is operated by Valerie and David Darmstaedter. “Earning recognition through the Circle of Excellence and President’s
Club reflects a sustained commitment to quality and continuous improvement across every aspect of a school’s operations,” said Darin Harris, CEO of Goddard Systems LLC. The Matthews School also welcomed Charlotte-area journalists Sept. 28 for World News Day. Students participated in interviews, classroom press conferences and reporting activities designed to encourage curiosity, observation and communication skills.
Page 2A • The Weekly • Oct. 9, 2026
MeckMIN director to leave post
EDUCATION BRIEFS Subaru South Charlotte supports Sterling Elementary School CHARLOTTE – Subaru South Charlotte surprised teachers at Sterling Elementary on Sept. 15 with school supplies and notes of gratitude from dealership staff and customers. Ten teachers were selected to receive $500 flexible funding certificates to shop for classroom materials through AdoptAClassroom.org, along with curated boxes of the most requested school supplies. Subaru South Charlotte has partnered with Sterling Elementary since 2016. The dealership has supported nearly 80 teachers and more than 2,000 students at Sterling Elementary. Employees also visit the school annually during Teacher Appreciation Week and volunteers during the winter holiday celebration. “From all of us, Subaru team members and customers alike, we want teachers to know how deeply grateful we are,” said Wanda Musgrave, of Subaru South Charlotte. “Their dedication, patience and passion make a lasting difference.” Subaru and its retailers have helped more than 1 million students nationwide access resources through Subaru Loves Learning and its national partnership with AdoptAClassroom.org.
Principal Doug Neill and Assistant Principal Jean Konzelmann welcomed Subaru South Charlotte to Sterling Elementary School as the dealership delivered donations. Photo courtesy of Subaru South Charlotte
CMS school board OKs charter for superintendent search committee
South Charlotte dad seeks interest in teacher-led school
CHARLOTTE – The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education approved the charter for the Superintendent Search Committee on Sept. 29. The approval allows the board to move forward with its search for a new CharlotteMecklenburg Schools superintendent. The committee will be responsible for procedural tasks such as developing the search timeline and establishing a process for gathering stakeholder input. The full board plans to seek community input. “Our community’s voice will help shape the future of our district,” Chair Gregory ‘Dee’ Rankin said. “We want students, families, staff and community members to help us identify a leader who reflects our shared values and our aspirations for every child.”
CMS recognizes top principals CHARLOTTE – Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools recently announced Principal of the Year honorees for each school performance area. Honorees from area schools include: • Penni Beth Crisp, Matthews Elementary School, Elementary School Performance Area A • Brian Slattery, Community House Middle School, Middle School Performance Area A • Bob Folk, Myers Park High School, High School Performance Area A They are among 11 finalists for 2027 CMS Principal of the Year. Folk won the award.
CHARLOTTE – South Charlotte dad Ted Farino is exploring the launch of Grovepath, a small, teacher-led school for grades 6–8 combining adaptive academics with writing, discussion and hands-on projects. He is looking for parents whose children will be in grades 6–8 in fall 2027. Planned tuition is $24,900 per year. Grovepath is proposed, not operating or approved, with no confirmed campus. No enrollment commitment or payment is requested. Email ted.farino@gmail.com for details.
Adams introduces bill aimed at educator workforce WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Alma Adams (NC12) and others have introduced legislation that would create new federal programs aimed at recruiting, preparing and retaining educators, particularly in high-need schools and fields. The Quality Educator Partnership Act, H.R. 10530, would establish an Office of Educator Workforce within the U.S. Department of Education and provide grants supporting teacher residencies, mentoring, recruitment and other workforce initiatives. It would also establish a National Educator Service Corps offering tuition assistance and stipends to eligible candidates who commit to working in high-need schools or fields. Adams said she has watched the national teacher shortage grow worse for decades. “The Quality Educator Partnership Act gives
the department the tools and coordination it is missing, from new investment in recruitment to long-overdue standards for ed-tech integration. Educators, administrators and students have waited long enough for this support,” she said.
Quick Hits • The NFL Foundation recognized CharlotteMecklenburg Schools as a Character Champion District. • South Mecklenburg High School is playing on a new turf football field. • CMS will have an early release day on Oct. 14. Oct. 30 is the last day of the quarter. • Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools held a hiring fair Sept. 16 at Northpointe Transportation Center to help fill 89 bus driver vacancies. • Kailee Bowen, owner of Ivybrook Academy Fort Mill, is expanding into Indian Land with a new Ivybrook Academy campus. The academy offers a private, half-day preschool for children ages 18 months to 6 years with an approach inspired by Montessori and Reggio Emilia philosophies. • A.C.E. Academy, a Harrisburg charter school, celebrated the opening of a preschool, A.C.E. Early Learners Academy.
CHARLOTTE – The Rev. LeDayne McLeese Polaski, executive director of the Mecklenburg Metropolitan Interfaith Network, will leave the position at the end of 2026 after seven years leading the organization. Polaski will work with MeckMIN’s board of directors on the leadership transition through the end of the year. “It has been an extraordinary privilege to help lead this organization and to work alongside so many people committed to building a community where neighbors across differences of faith, culture and tradition can know one another, care for one another and work together for the common good,” Polaski wrote in a letter shared with MeckMIN. “New leadership can bring fresh energy, ideas and vision to build on the foundation we have created together.” Polaski said that she and her husband both have aging parents and that she hopes to contribute to the common good in a more limited, part-time role in her next position, according to MeckMIN. “For seven years, LeDayne has led MeckMIN with steadiness, warmth and a rare gift for bringing people together,” said Nima Nematollahi, president of MeckMIN’s board of directors, on behalf of the board. “She guided this network through some of its most demanding seasons, and she leaves it strong, trusted and ready for what comes next. As MeckMIN approaches its 40th anniversary, our board is deeply grateful for her service and confident in the future she has helped make possible.” The board of directors will share more about the transition process in the coming weeks. MeckMIN will continue its scheduled programs, including this year’s Interfaith Friendsgiving on Nov. 19 at Myers Park Covenant Church. “I am proud of what we have accomplished together, deeply grateful for these seven years and genuinely excited to see what this remarkable organization will build next,” she said.
The Weekly • Oct. 9, 2026 • Page 3A
CALENDAR Oct. 9 Craft & Chat Artists and crafters can socialize while working on projects at the Mint Hill Community Center. Register in advance at minthill.recdesk.com. 9-11 a.m.; 11524 Bain School Road, Mint Hill Gym Basketball Matthews Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resource Department hosts open gym basketball at Crews Recreation Center. Admission costs $2 for adults. Youth play free. Register at matthewsfun.com. Noon-4 p.m.; 1201 Crews Road, Matthews Bingo Mint Hill Community Center hosts bingo. Register at minthill.recdesk.com. 1-3 p.m.; 11524 Bain School Road, Mint Hill Date Night Drop-Off Crews Recreation Center hosts Date Night Drop-Off for children ages 6-13. Participants can enjoy basketball, dodgeball, games, arts and crafts. Pizza and refreshments are provided. The cost is $10 for one child and $5 for each additional child. Registration is required. matthewsnc.gov 5-9 p.m.; 1201 Crews Road, Matthews Comedy Bingo Matthews Community Center hosts an evening combining stand-up comedy and bingo. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. matthewsnc. gov 7 p.m.; 100 McDowell St., Matthews
Oct. 10 Pickleball (Advanced) Matthews Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resource Department hosts openplay pickleball for intermediate and advanced players at Crews Recreation Center. Admission costs $3. Register at matthewsfun.com. 8:30-10:30 a.m.; 1201 Crews Road, Matthews Family Storytime Children ages 0-5 engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Matthews Library. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Matthews 9:30-10 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews Family Storytime Families engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Mint Hill Library. Registration starts in person 30 minutes before the event. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Mint-Hill 9:30-10 a.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill Fall for Matthews The Matthews Area Chamber of Commerce hosts Fall for Matthews at Stumptown Park. The event includes arts and crafts, an auto show, business vendors, a children’s area, food and live music. matthewschamber.org 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; 120 S. Trade St., Matthews Pickleball (Beginner) Matthews Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resource Department hosts open-play pickleball for beginning players at Crews Recreation Center. Admission costs $3. Register at matthewsfun.com. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 1201 Crews Road, Matthews Chess Club The Family Chess Club learns and plays chess at Mint Hill Library. cmlibrary.org/
locations/Mint-Hill 3-4 p.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill Dungeons & Dragons Mint Hill Community Center hosts Dungeons & Dragons. Register at minthill.recdesk.com. 5-8 p.m.; 11524 Bain School Road, Mint Hill Community Theater Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts presents a staged reading of Michael and Susan Parker’s comedy “Sex Please, We’re Sixty!” at Matthews Ballroom. The evening begins with drinks and hors d’oeuvres at 6 p.m., followed by the performance at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $50 and include two drink tickets. matthewsplayhouse.com 6 p.m.; 189 N. Trade St., Matthews
Oct. 11 Badminton (Advanced) Matthews Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resource Department hosts badminton for advanced players at Crews Recreation Center. Admission costs $3. Register at matthewsfun.com. 10 a.m.-noon; 1201 Crews Road, Matthews Badminton (Beginners) Matthews Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resource Department hosts badminton for beginners at Crews Recreation Center. Admission costs $3. Register at matthewsfun.com. Noon-2 p.m.; 1201 Crews Road, Matthews Pickleball Sundays Mint Hill Community Center hosts Pickleball Sundays. Register at minthill.recdesk.com. Noon-6 p.m.; 11524 Bain School Road, Mint Hill Badminton (Family Time) Matthews Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resource Department hosts Badminton: Family Time at Crews Recreation Center. Admission costs $3. Register at matthewsfun.com. 2-4 p.m.; 1201 Crews Road, Matthews
Oct. 13 Family Storytime Children ages 0-5 engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Matthews Library. Register at the train desk 15 minutes before the event. cmlibrary.org/ locations/Matthews 10:15-10:45 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews Family Storytime Families engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Mint Hill Library. Registration starts 30 minutes before the event. cmlibrary.org/locations/Mint-Hill 10:15-10:45 or 11-11:30 a.m.; 6840 MatthewsMint Hill Road, Mint Hill Conversation Club Preteens and teens practice speaking Spanish during Intermediate Spanish Conversation Club at Matthews Library. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews Noon-1 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews Book Club The Books & Banter Book Club discusses “The Jungle Book” by Rudyard Kipling at Mint Hill Library. Register in advance at cmlibrary.org/locations/Mint-Hill. 1-2:30 p.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
Marvelous Math Children ages 3-5 engage in math-themed stories and activities during Preschool Storytime: Marvelous Math at Matthews Library. Register in advance at cmlibrary. org/locations/Matthews. 2-3:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews Craft Afternoon Teens create crafts during Teen Craft Afternoon at Mint Hill Library. Register in advance at cmlibrary.org/locations/MintHill. 3:30-4:30 p.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill Craft & Chat Artists and crafters can socialize while working on projects at the Mint Hill Community Center. Register in advance at minthill.recdesk.com. 6-8 p.m.; 11524 Bain School Road, Mint Hill Writing Group An adult writing group shares writing and feedback at Matthews Library. Register in advance at cmlibrary.org/locations/ Matthews. 6:30-7:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Oct. 14 Preschool Storytime Children ages 3-5 engage in stories and songs during Preschool Storytime at Mint Hill Library. Registration opens 30 minutes before the program starts. cmlibrary.org/ locations/Mint-Hill 11:15-11:45 a.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill Paws to Read Children ages 5-11 read to a volunteer therapy dog at Matthews Library. Sign up for a 15-minute session upon arrival. Registration opens 15 minutes before the first session. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Matthews 3:30-4:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews LEGO Club Children ages 5-12 explore math concepts during LEGO Club at Matthews Library. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 4-5 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews Bike Night Kristopher’s Sports Bar & Restaurant holds Bike Night with music and drink specials. 5:30-8:30 p.m.; 250 N. Trade St., Matthews
Oct. 15 Family Storytime Children ages 0-5 engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Matthews Library. Register at the train desk 15 minutes before the event. cmlibrary.org/ locations/Matthews 10:15-10:45 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews Park Storytime Children listen to stories and songs during Storytime in the Park at Squirrel Lake Park. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 11-11:30 a.m.; 1631 Pleasant Plains Road, Matthews Senior Planet Matthews Library hosts Senior Planet: Everyday Uses of AI. Older adults explore how artificial intelligence is used in everyday
life. Register in advance at cmlibrary.org/ locations/Matthews 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews Kawaii Art Children ages 5-12 doodle during Draw Spooky Kawaii Art at Mint Hill Library. Register in advance at cmlibrary.org/ locations/Mint-Hill. 4-4:45 p.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
Matthews Pickleball (Beginner) Matthews Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resource Department hosts open-play pickleball for beginning players at Crews Recreation Center. Admission costs $3. Register at matthewsfun.com. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 1201 Crews Road, Matthews
Mint Hill Madness Mint Hill Madness opens the first of three days at Mint Hill Veterans Park. First-day attractions include battle reenactments, free vaccines (4-8 p.m.) and music by DJ Big C (4-9 p.m.). All-you-can-ride wristbands cost $30. The event continues through Oct. 17. minthillevents.org/madness 4-9 p.m.; 8500 Fairview Road, Mint Hill
Mint Hill Madness Mint Hill Madness continues at Mint Hill Veterans Park. Attractions include battle reenactments, free vaccines and health screenings (10 a.m.-8 p.m.), a children’s market (11 a.m.-3 p.m.) and music by DJ Big C (Noon-3 p.m.), Chasin’ Aldean (3-5:45 p.m.) and Gump Fiction (6:30-9:30 p.m.). The event ends with fireworks at 9:30 p.m. minthillevents.org/madness 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; 8500 Fairview Road, Mint Hill
Chess Club Children ages 5-11 play and practice chess at Matthews Library. cmlibrary.org/ locations/Matthews 4:30-5:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Chess Club The Family Chess Club learns and plays chess at Mint Hill Library. cmlibrary.org/ locations/Mint-Hill 3-4 p.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
Oct. 16
Community Theater Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts presents a staged reading of Michael and Susan Parker’s comedy “Sex Please, We’re Sixty!” at Matthews Ballroom. The evening begins with drinks and hors d’oeuvres at 6 p.m., followed by the performance at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $50 and include two drink tickets. matthewsplayhouse.com 6 p.m.; 189 N. Trade St., Matthews
Mint Hill Madness Mint Hill Madness continues at Mint Hill Veterans Park. Attractions include battle reenactments, a children’s market (4-8 p.m.), music by DJ Big C (5-7 p.m.), free vaccines (5-9 p.m.) and music by Davis & The Love (710 p.m.). The event continues through Oct. 17. minthillevents.org/madness 4-10 p.m.; 8500 Fairview Road, Mint Hill Beats ‘n Bites Band of Oz performs beach music during the Beats ‘n Bites series at Stumptown Park. Area food, dessert trucks and craft beer will be available. Music starts at 6 p.m. Bring a chair or blanket but leave pets at home. matthewsnc.gov/specialevents 5-9 p.m.; 120 S. Trade St., Matthews
Oct. 18
Oct. 17
Badminton (Beginners) Matthews Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resource Department hosts badminton for beginners at Crews Recreation Center. Admission costs $3. Register at matthewsfun.com. Noon-2 p.m.; 1201 Crews Road, Matthews
Pickleball (Advanced) Matthews Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resource Department hosts openplay pickleball for intermediate and advanced players at Crews Recreation Center. Admission costs $3. Register at matthewsfun.com. 8:30-10:30 a.m.; 1201 Crews Road, Matthews Family Storytime Children ages 0-5 engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Matthews Library. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Matthews 9:30-10 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews Family Storytime Families engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Mint Hill Library. Registration starts in person 30 minutes before the event. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Mint-Hill 9:30-10 a.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill Paws to Read Children ages 5-11 read to a volunteer therapy dog at Matthews Library. Sign up for a 15-minute session upon arrival. Registration opens 15 minutes before the first session. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Matthews 10-11 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St.,
Badminton (Advanced) Matthews Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resource Department hosts badminton for advanced players at Crews Recreation Center. Admission costs $3. Register at matthewsfun.com. 10 a.m.-noon; 1201 Crews Road, Matthews
Badminton (Family Time) Matthews Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resource Department hosts Badminton: Family Time at Crews Recreation Center. Admission costs $3. Register at matthewsfun.com. 2-4 p.m.; 1201 Crews Road, Matthews
Oct. 20 Family Storytime Children ages 0-5 engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Matthews Library. Register at the train desk 15 minutes before the event. cmlibrary.org/ locations/Matthews 10:15-10:45 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews Conversation Club Preteens and teens practice speaking Spanish during Intermediate Spanish Conversation Club at Matthews Library. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews Noon-1 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Page 4A • The Weekly • Oct. 9, 2026
Ballot to feature two tax BUSINESS BRIEFS amendments, voter ID Lowe’s plans safety events Oct. 17
by Alan Wooten Contributor
(The Center Square) – Tax amendments tied to personal income and property, and a referendum to align North Carolina’s photo identification requirement in person with all ballots cast are before voters in the 2026 midterms. Each of the trio was advanced by the Legislature, giving voters a voice in policy. According to Ballotpedia for this election cycle, seven states have 13 statewide ballot measures on property taxes; six states have nine statewide ballot measures related to income and wealth tax policy; and seven states have referenda on voter identification requirements. One of the latter, in Oklahoma, was already approved in August during a primary runoff. Missouri voters in August defeated the referendum to require reductions in the individual income tax based on revenue growth until the tax is eliminated, prohibit its future reestablishment, and authorize certain sales and use tax changes. North Carolina is the only state with referenda in all three policy areas. California and Colorado have two each, both related to income and wealth tax policy, and to voter identification. Since 1985, North Carolina’s 30 statewide ballot measures have had just five defeats. In an Elon University Poll released two weeks ago, requiring photo identification for all forms of voting, including absentee mail-in ballots, drew a 63%-25% approval; changing the constitution to lower the allowable state personal income tax rate from 7% to 3.5% was favored 67%-18%; and allowing the General Assembly to limit increases in property taxes from local governments is favored 72%-14%. North Carolina voters in 2018 endorsed presenting photo identification when voting in person. Litigation, led in part by then-Gov. Roy Cooper, led to
implementation delayed until the 2023 municipal races. The amendment would make the April 2023 ruling by the state Supreme Court constitutional. The state’s highest bench said photocopies of photo IDs were to go in with ballots mailed, or completion of an ID Exception Form. The referenda are at the end of the ballot. For this one, the ballot asks voters to vote for or against, “Constitutional amendment to require all voters, not just those presenting to vote in person, to present photo identification before voting.” The state’s individual income tax is a flat rate of 3.99% and scheduled to continue dropping to 3.49% in 2027 and 2.99% in 2028. The amendment puts a cap of 3.5% starting in 2027. Today the cap is 7%. The ballot asks voters to vote for or against, “Constitutional amendment to keep the state income tax rate from being raised higher than three and onehalf percent (3.5%).” The property tax amendment does not set a floor or cap; rather, it says lawmakers are to pass laws limiting how much local governments can increase total property tax revenue from year to year. It does set a “levy limit” capping growth in total dollars. Exceptions could be granted by the lawmakers. The ballot asks voters to vote for or against, “Constitutional amendment requiring limits on property tax increases by local governments.” Absentee voting began on Sept. 4 with the mailing of ballots to the nearly 50,000 requesting them, opening a 61day window to Nov. 3. Oct. 9 is the voter registration deadline. Absentee requests do not require a reason; anyone can file with their respective counties. The deadline for an absentee ballot in the mail to be in a county election board office is when the polls close at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 3; the request deadline is 5 p.m. on Oct. 20. Early in-person voting is Oct. 15-31, and same-day registration is permitted.
MOORESVILLE – Lowe’s stores will host fire safety events from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 17 as part of Fire Prevention Month. Participating stores will feature local first responders, emergency vehicles, fire equipment and safety demonstrations. Families can learn about fire prevention and emergency preparedness. The events are sponsored by First Alert.
Carolina Caring named among best places to work NEWTON – Carolina Caring ranked among the top 50 organizations nationwide in Modern Healthcare’s 2026 Best Places to Work in Healthcare awards. The nonprofit health care provider received the recognition during an awards gala Sept. 16 in Houston. This marks the eighth consecutive year Carolina Caring has been recognized by the program. Rankings are based on anonymous employee surveys. “Being recognized among the Best Places to Work in Healthcare for the eighth year in a row is a tremendous honor,” Carolina Caring President and CEO Christina McNally said. “Our organization received this award because we truly care about one another – not just within the workplace, but also in our day-to-day lives.”
Charlotte Area Chamber events CHARLOTTE – The Charlotte Area Chamber of Commerce hosts Coffee with the Chamber, Speed Networking, Authors’ Expo and Reception, and Meet the Candidates. • Members explore publishing and meet local authors during the Authors’ Expo and Reception from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. Oct. 15 at Henderson Properties, 3030 Latrobe Drive, Charlotte. Fabi Preslar, founder and president of SPARK Publications, will discuss whether and how to publish a book. Members get in free. Others pay $25. Register in advance. • Members meet candidates running for federal and state offices during Meet the Candidates – Connect & Engage from noon to 3 p.m. Oct. 16 at Stella Nova Restaurant & Bar SouthPark, 3920 Sharon Road, Suite 160, Charlotte. The town hall is free. 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, Monthly Chamber Business Luncheon, Business After Hours, women’s programming and a ribbon cutting. • 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. • Women in Business members meet up from 5 to 7 p.m. Oct. 12 at Wine & Design Matthews, 1600 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Matthews. Admission is free for Women in Business members. Others pay $15. Painting costs an additional $15. Register in advance. • Members hear from the Matthews Police Department about safety issues during the Monthly Chamber Business Luncheon from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 14 at Christ Covenant Church, 800 Fullwood Lane, Matthews. Members pay $25 in advance or $30 within 24 hours of the event or at the door. Others pay $40. Register in advance. • Members mingle during Business After Hours from 5 to 7 p.m. Oct. 15 at Fairfield by Marriott, 8540 E. Independence Blvd., Charlotte. Admission is free. Register in advance. Visit matthewschamber.org to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Mint Hill Chamber events MINT HILL – The Mint Hill Chamber of Commerce hosts Coffee with the Candidates and a Monthly Member Luncheon. • 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 hosts a Women in Business Awards Luncheon and 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. • The chamber holds its Women in Business Awards Luncheon from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 14 at Rolling Hills Country Club, 2722 W. Roosevelt Blvd., Monroe. Members pay $35. Others pay $50. Register in advance. Visit unioncountycoc.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
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REGIONAL The Weekly • Oct. 9, 2026 • Page 1B
JINYA SouthPark goes beyond the bowl r
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CHARLOTTE – JINYA Ramen Bar has launched a new lineup of specialty dishes at its SouthPark location. The dishes were inspired by favorites from the brand’s Los Angeles-based sister concepts, which specialize in everything from sushi and sashimi to premium Japanese Wagyu. The restaurant is located at 4401 Barclay Downs Drive, Suite 134, in Charlotte.
Small Plates • A5 Japanese Wagyu Slider: A5 Japanese Wagyu hamburger, Japanese sliced bread, pickled shallot and microgreens • A5 Japanese Wagyu Gyoza: Handwrapped A5 Japanese Wagyu potstickers served with gyoza sauce • Shrimp Toast: Toasted shrimp cake sandwich
Sushi Rolls • LBD: Spicy albacore avocado roll topped with toro, crispy onion, serrano pepper and micro cilantro, finished with garlic ponzu • Lime: Spicy tuna roll topped with salmon and lime, finished with sesame ponzu • Lemon: Spicy salmon avocado roll wrapped in soy paper and topped with sliced salmon and marinated lemon, pine nuts and citrus soy sauce
Signature Sashimi • Hokkaido Scallop: Hokkaido scallop sashimi with dry miso, yuzu citrus sauce and JINYA Spicy Padre, garnished with cilantro, cucumber and cherry tomato Signature Cocktail • E Tomo E Tomo E Tomorrow: Haku Vodka, St-Germain Elderflower, raspberry, hibiscus, lemon, cranberry and bubbles
FIBER IS TRENDING Sorghum Makes it Simple
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FEATURE IMPACT
rotein has long dominated nutrition headlines. Now, dietitians encourage people to pay close attention to another important nutrient: fiber. One whole grain quietly gaining recognition for its impressive nutritional profile and versatility in the kitchen is sorghum. It’s a naturally gluten-free whole grain that provides both fiber and protein, contains naturally occurring antioxidants and supplies essential nutrients including magnesium, iron and B vitamins. One reason sorghum is attracting attention is its fiber content. Wholegrain sorghum contains a type of fiber called resistant starch, which research has shown can contribute to healthy body weight and improved insulin resistance. Unlike many refined gluten-free products that are lower in fiber, sorghum delivers the benefits of a whole grain while remaining naturally gluten-free. Whether you have celiac disease, gluten sensitivity or simply want to enjoy a wider variety of whole grains, sorghum is an easy addition to your menu. Another reason nutrition experts are taking a closer look at sorghum is its antioxidant content, specifically its health-promoting polyphenols.
Perhaps the biggest surprise is how easy sorghum is to cook with. Whole-grain sorghum offers a mild, slightly nutty flavor and pleasantly chewy texture, making it a delicious alternative for brown rice, quinoa or farro in grain bowls, soups and salads. Pearled sorghum cooks faster, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Sorghum flour can replace wheat flour in pancakes, muffins and quick breads, while popped sorghum creates bite-sized crunchy kernels for a fun snack or topping for yogurt, soups and salads. For example, this Sorghum Fall Harvest Salad makes it easy to add more fiber to your plate, pairing whole-grain sorghum with seasonal produce like kale, butternut squash and apples. Healthy eating doesn’t have to mean following the latest trend. Sometimes it simply means rediscovering nutritious foods that have stood the test of time. With its combination of fiber, protein, antioxidants and naturally gluten-free, whole-grain goodness, sorghum is an ancient grain worth adding to your pantry. You can find dozens of recipes, cooking tips and meal ideas at SorghumCheckoff.com/recipes.
EASY SORGHUM SWAPS FOR EVERYDAY DISHES n Replace rice. Use cooked whole-grain or pearled
sorghum instead of white or brown rice in grain bowls, stir fries, burrito bowls and side dishes. n Swap for pasta. Stir cooked sorghum into pasta salads or use it in place of small pasta shapes in soups for a hearty twist.
Sorghum Fall Harvest Salad
Recipe courtesy of Sorghum Checkoff 1 cup roasted butternut squash, cubed 1/4 cup olive oil, plus additional for drizzling, divided salt, to taste pepper, to taste 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon sorghum syrup 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
4 cups kale, chopped 1 cup cooked whole-grain sorghum 1 small apple, diced 1/2 cup pecan halves, toasted 1/4 cup dried cranberries 1/4 cup red onions, diced 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled Preheat oven to 400 F. Toss cubed butternut squash with a drizzle of olive oil and salt and pepper, to taste. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and golden.
In a jar or small bowl, whisk 1/4 cup olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sorghum syrup, Dijon mustard and salt and pepper, to taste, until emulsified. Add chopped kale to a large bowl. Massage with a drizzle of olive oil 1-2 minutes until tender. Arrange precooked sorghum, roasted squash, apple, pecans, dried cranberries, red onion and feta cheese on top of kale. Drizzle with sorghum syrup dressing just before serving. Toss lightly to combine or serve dressing on the side.
If you’re looking for ways to add more sorghum to your meals, these easy swaps make it simple to enjoy this versatile grain in recipes you already love.
n Mix into salads. Add cooked sorghum to
green salads, grain salads or vegetable salads for extra texture and whole-grain nutrition. n Boost your breakfast. Stir cooked sorghum into oatmeal, yogurt parfaits or breakfast bowls then top with fruit, nuts or cinnamon.
n Bake with sorghum flour.
Replace wheat flour in pancakes, muffins, cookies, waffles or quick breads with sorghum flour for a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
Scan for sorghum recipes.
DINING SCORES Health departments in Mecklenburg and Union counties inspected these restaurants from Sept. 24 to 30:
Charlotte (28227)
Indian Trail
• Bojangles, 9075 Lawyers Road – 95.5 • Honey Buns, 7323 E. Independence Blvd. – 98.5 • Julieta’s Restaurant & Deli, 8505 Lawyers Road – 95.5 • La Mesa del Rincon, 7146 E. Independence Blvd. – 95
• Joe’s Kwik Marts, 2700 Chamber Drive – 97 • Micasa M&Y Inc., 4409 Old Monroe Road – 100 • Sun Valley Cafe, 6751 Old Monroe Road – 95 • The Bridge, 5902 Indian Trail-Fairview Road – 95
Charlotte (28270)
Marshville • Wendy’s, 6807 E. Marshville Blvd. – 98.5
Charlotte (28210)
• Be Em Asian Kitchen, 1848 Galleria Blvd. – 97 • Juliana Pizza, 9858 Monroe Road – 98 • Romeo and Juliet Brazilian Cafe, 1605 Galleria Blvd. – 96
• Limani, 6902 Phillips Place Court – 98.5 • Smoothie King (food stand), 4736 Sharon Road – 99
Charlotte (28277)
Charlotte (28209) • AMC Park Terrace 6, 4289 Park Road – 99.5 • Catalu, 135 New Bern St. – 98.5 • First Watch, 5821 Fairview Road – 96.5 • Rhino Market & Deli, 4300 Congress St. – 97.5 • Viva Chicken, 4500 Park Road – 96
Charlotte (28211) • Bodega Food Wagon (mobile), 3500 Latrobe Drive – 97.5 • Chipotle Mexican Grill, 4400 Sharon Road – 95 • Chutney Cat (mobile), 3500 Latrobe Drive – 99 • Cookin & Cruzin (mobile), 3500 Latrobe Drive – 98.5 • Hunan Express, 901 N. Wendover Road – 98 • Smashburger, 4400 Randolph Road – 96
Charlotte (28226) • Brixx Wood Fired Pizza, 7814 Fairview Road – 97.5 • Chick-fil-A, 3117 Pineville-Matthews Road – 99
• Bonnie & Clyde’s Lounge, 10822 Providence Road – 92.5 • Bossy Beulah’s, 15110 Bowl St. – 97 • Chuy’s, 7314 Waverly Walk Ave. – 94.5 • CO, 7416 Waverly Walk Ave. – 97 • Eggspectation, 14815 Ballantyne Village Way – 92 • Firebirds, 7716 Rea Road – 95.5 • Inizio Pizza Napoletana, 10620 Providence Road – 99.5 • Panera Bread, 11630 Waverly Center Drive – 95 • Showmars, 10612 Providence Road – 96.5 • Starbucks, 6432 Rea Road – 98.5
Matthews • Chipotle Mexican Grill, 1909 Matthews Township Pkwy. – 96 • Jekyll & Hyde Taphouse and Grill, 316 N. Trade St. – 91.5 • Monterrey Mexican Restaurant, 9623 E. Independence Blvd. – 99 • Umami Sushi & Grill, 200 E. Matthews St. – 96.5
Monroe • Circle K, 1991 E. Roosevelt Blvd. – 97 • Hong Kong, 813 E. Roosevelt Blvd. – 93 • Moe’s Southwest Grill, 2925 Monroe Way – 99.5 • RaceTrac, 4060 W. U.S. 74 – 99.5 • Showmars, 2398 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 94 • Taqueria Veracruz Mexico, 1228 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 97 • The Cupbearer, 410 John St. – 94.5
• Tortilleria El Toro Grande, 1705 Walkup Ave. – 97.5
Pineville • Harper’s Cafe, 9101 Pineville-Matthews Road – 96.5 • Mean Mug Coffee Company, 11025 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 99 • Popeyes (food stand), 11025 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 97.5 • Ruby Thai Kitchen (food stand), 11025 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 97 • Sbarro Italian Eatery (food stand), 11025 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 97 • Starbucks, 9015 Pineville-Matthews Road – 98
Stallings • Cornerstone Pub and Grill, 15080 Idlewild Road – 88.5 • Rock Store Bar-B-Que, 3116 Old Monroe Road – 98.5
Waxhaw • Asian Grill, 3913 S. Providence Road – 99.5 • Waxhaw Rock Store BBQ, 2538B Cuthbertson Road – 99.5
Weddington • Poppyseeds Bagels, 13645 Providence Road – 95
Page 2B • The Weekly • Oct. 9, 2026
Mint Hill Madness features fireworks, cannon firings MINT HILL – Mint Hill Madness returns Oct. 15 to 17 with three days of live entertainment, carnival rides, food vendors and what organizers tout as the area’s largest fireworks display. Here’s a preview of the entertainment: Thursday, Oct. 15 • DJ Big C, 4 to 9 p.m. • Mint Hill Millie Scavenger Hunt Friday, Oct. 16 • Children’s Entrepreneur Market, 4 to 8 p.m. • Mint Hill Millie Scavenger
Hunt • America’s 250th Celebration Cannon Firing • DJ Big C, 5 to 7 p.m. • Davis & the Love (pop rock), 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 17 • Children’s Entrepreneur Market, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. • Mint Hill Millie Scavenger Hunt • America’s 250th Celebration Cannon Firing • DJ Big C, Noon to 3 p.m. • Chasin’ Aldean (Jason Aldean tribute), 3 to 5:45 p.m. • Gump Fiction (1990s), 6:30 to
9:30 p.m. • Fireworks, 9:30 p.m. Thursday also serves as wristband night. Festivalgoers can buy all-you-can-ride wristbands for $30. Novant Health staff will distribute COVID-19 vaccines and flu shots Thursday through Saturday. Organizers thanked event sponsors, including title sponsor Novant Health, fun zone sponsor Mint Hill Pediatric Dentistry and wristband sponsor Mosack. On the web: minthillevents.org Mint Hill Madness is the town's biggest event. CMG file photo
Postino opens second location LOUD & LIVE CHARLOTTE – Postino will open its Plaza Midwood location to the public on Sept. 21 at 1606 Commonwealth Ave. The 4,113-square-foot restaurant pairs Postino’s vintage-meetsmodern style with trolley-carinspired details that reference the neighborhood’s industrial roots, along with a custom camerainspired art wall. “After seeing how the Ballantyne location has been embraced over the past two years, opening in Plaza Midwood felt like a great next step to join another growing neighborhood with so much personality and culture,” said Lauren Bailey, co-founder and CEO of Postino. “There’s a really strong sense of community and gathering in this neck of the woods, especially with the area being walkable for many residents living nearby. People here are always looking to connect to people and food, and that is everything Postino stands for.” The menu will evolve with the seasons, while continuing to feature bruschetta boards alongside charcuterie, panini, salads and shareable “Snacky Things.” The beverage program centers on a rotating selection of wines from around the world, with more than 20 available by the glass, complemented by craft beer, cocktails and zero-proof options. Postino will celebrate its grand
Oct. 9
• Amos’ Southend: Stop Light Observations • Evening Muse: John Howie Jr. & The Rosewood Bluff • Franklin Court Grille: Flipside • Neighborhood Theatre: Rising Appalachia • Ovens Auditorium: Edith Márquez • Spectrum Center: Phoebe Bridgers • Stooges Pub & Grub: Palmetto Drive • The Club House Bites and Booze: Dual Drive • The Fillmore Charlotte: Niko Moon • The Underground: House of Heavy • Truliant Amphitheater: Fuerza Regida • Visulite Theatre: Yacht Rock Radio
Oct. 10 • Amos’ Southend: Purgatory • Evening Muse: Will Dempsey • Franklin Court Grille: Southern Fried Guys • Great Wagon Road Distilling: Carrie Ann • Local Logic: Jeff Rogers • Mary O’Neill’s: Chris Suter • Neighborhood Theatre: Daley • Shep’s Bar & Grill: Jadynce Jean • Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre: Two Door Cinema Club • Stooges Pub & Grub: Next O’ Kin • The Underground: High June • Visulite Theatre: Yacht Rock Radio
Oct. 11
• 001: Postino’s Plaza Midwood location comes two years after the brand opened in Ballantyne. The Plaza Midwood location features a custom camerainspired art wall. Photos courtesy of Postino Plaza Midwood & Rico Marcelo
opening at 11 a.m. Sept. 26 with treats and giveaways. The first 100 guests will receive Postino-branded trucker hats and cookies from Sugar, Butter, Sass, as well as photo opportunities. Postino will also donate $1 from every bruschetta sold to the Isabella Santos Foundation, which supports
families affected by childhood cancer and other serious diseases. Postino is open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on weekdays; 11 a.m. to midnight on Saturdays; and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sundays. The restaurant also offers a monthly membership. On the web: postino.com
What's new in Charlotte CHARLOTTE – As one of the nation’s fastest-growing cities, Charlotte is attracting visitors this fall with a strong lineup of events, a buzzing culinary scene and cultural experiences. From arts and culture to major attractions and a packed sports calendar, Charlotte offers a wide range of things to do this fall, earning recognition from Travel + Leisure as one of the South’s most vibrant destinations. Here are some recommendations from the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority. Signature Culinary Events • Charlotte Craft Beer Week: Oct. 16– 25, this citywide event celebrates local breweries with special releases, events and a Craft Beer Passport to earn rewards. Latest Restaurant Openings • Grey’s Diner + Community Kitchen: Chef Sam Diminich’s modern take on the American diner, featuring locally sourced ingredients. • Ardente: Roman-style Italian with handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza and seasonal dishes. • PostScript: European-inspired comfort food in a restored historic space. • Olivelli Deli: Walk-up sandwiches and soft serve from the team behind three Michelin-recommended restaurants. • Sweet July Cafe: Ayesha Curry and Chef Michael Mina’s cafe blending Californiainspired wellness with Caribbean flavors. • No Knife Chicken & Waffles: Charlotte musician DaBaby’s elevated take on a soul food classic, with updated flavors and ingredients. • Room Service + Bar Fly: Rooftop cocktails, bites and weekend programming at Camp North End. • Cafe Audire: Coffee shop and vinyl listening lounge with a retro-inspired design. • The Changebaker Place: Community cafe and mission-driven workspace from Manolo Betancur, named a Charlotte Business Journal 2026 Power 100 Visionary.
Halloween and Fall Events • SCarowinds: The Carolinas’ largest Halloween event (now through Nov. 1) features 17 haunted attractions, including new experiences and themed frights like Jason: Blood Reign and The Conjuring: Beyond Fear. • Scarecrow Hollow: A family-friendly fall event at Daniel Stowe Conservancy (now through Nov. 1) with communitycreated scarecrows and a “Best in Crow” voting experience. • Rural Hill Corn Maze: A Scottishthemed corn maze (weekends through Oct. 31) with live bagpipes, interactive games and classic fall activities. Cultural Experiences and Exhibitions • Mending the Wild: At Discovery Place Science through Dec. 31, Charlotte artist Tina Alberni explores biodiversity and conservation through mixed-media works using reclaimed materials. • Sown Together: New Voices in Contemporary Textile Art: On view through Jan. 24, 2027, at the Harvey B. Gantt Center, this exhibition explores migration, identity and the African diaspora through contemporary textile art. College Basketball • Ally Tipoff: Elite women’s basketball comes to Spectrum Center on Nov. 8, with the Kentucky Wildcats facing the NC State Wolfpack, followed by the North Carolina Tar Heels taking on the South Carolina Gamecocks. • Dick Vitale Invitational: On Nov. 27, men’s basketball comes to Spectrum Center as the West Virginia Mountaineers square off against the North Carolina Tar Heels. New in Charlotte is a regular update on tourism-related developments in the Charlotte region, including hotel and venue development, culinary accolades and openings, the city’s major events and attractions. charlottesgotalot.com/fall.
• Bojangles Coliseum: MercyMe, Jeremy Camp, Tim Timmons and Sam Wesley • Neighborhood Theatre: The 502s (sold out) • The Fillmore Charlotte: Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue
Oct. 12 • Amos’ Southend: Olivia O’Brien • Evening Muse: Open Mic
Oct. 13 • Spectrum Center: Jonas Brothers • The Fillmore Charlotte: The Revivalists • The Underground: Igorrr
Oct. 14 • Evening Muse: Hunter Root • Neighborhood Theatre: All Them
Witches • Spectrum Center: Don Omar • The Fillmore Charlotte: Bethel Music • The Underground: Kelela
Oct. 15 • Neighborhood Theatre: The Infamous Stringdusters • The Back Corner: Open Mic • The Underground: Plini
Popular Venues Charlotte • Amos’ Southend: 1423 S. Tryon St. • Bojangles Coliseum: 2700 E. Independence Blvd. • Evening Muse: 3227 N. Davidson St. • Neighborhood Theatre: 511 E. 36th St. • Ovens Auditorium: 2900 E. Independence Blvd. • Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre: 1000 NC Music Factory Blvd. • Spectrum Center: 333 E. Trade St. • The Club House Bites and Booze: 16715 Orchard Stone Run • The Fillmore: 820 Hamilton St. • The Underground: 820 Hamilton St. • Truliant Amphitheater: 707 Pavilion Blvd. • Visulite Theatre: 1615 Elizabeth Ave.
Matthews • The Back Corner: 215 N. Ames St.
Mint Hill • Shep’s Bar & Grill: 8111 Fairview Road • Stooges Pub & Grub: 13230 Albemarle Road
Monroe • Franklin Court Grille: 232 E. Franklin St. • Local Logic: 130 S. Main St.
Waxhaw • Great Wagon Road Distilling: 122 W. North Main St. • Mary O’Neill’s: 110 W. North Main St. • Waxhaw Taphouse: 203 N. Broome St.
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The Weekly • Oct. 9, 2026 • Page 3B
Page 4B • The Weekly • Oct. 9, 2026
HEALTH BRIEFS Older folks get community resources during Grandparents Day
The North Carolina Nurses Association recognized several nurses from the Charlotte region at its 119th Annual Convention. Photos courtesy of NCNA
NCNA recognizes Charlottearea nurses at convention RALEIGH – The North Carolina Nurses Association’s 119th Annual Convention recently drew more than 650 registrants in Concord to celebrate the nursing profession and map out strategies to prevent burnout amid the national nursing shortage. NCNA honored more than a dozen nurses and workplaces with awards, celebrated the graduation of its newest Leadership Academy and took a forwardlooking approach to an important topic with this year’s Statewide Membership Forum: Nurse Mental Health & WellBeing: Creating a Healthy Culture Where Nurses Thrive. “We are seeing a great amount of enthusiasm from nurses demanding we have a say in how the profession evolves. Nurses are facing challenges from a variety of directions, and we do not intend to passively allow health care to change without our input,” said Bonnie Davis Meadows, president of the NCNA. “The conversations during our Membership Forum proved that we have nurses all across North Carolina who are determined to steer our profession with intent.” The association recognized these Charlotte-area nurses during the event: Administration Nurse of the Year: Carmen Smith of Concord NCNA cited Smith’s leadership, mentoring through the Novant Health Nursing Leadership Fellowship and work on patient engagement, including an initiative that increased MyChart use during admissions. Outstanding Service Award: Karen Marshall of Charlotte Marshall led an Atrium Health group
Residents encouraged to join Walk to End Alzheimer’s The North Carolina Nurses Association recognized N.C. Rep. Carla Cunningham for her service.
encouraging nurses to join NCNA and helped promote membership throughout the health system. Service Recognition: Rep. Carla Cunningham of Charlotte NCNA recognized Cunningham, who represents District 106, for her service as she prepares to leave the General Assembly. The registered nurse has served seven terms in the N.C. House. 2026 Leadership Academy Cohort • Rebecca Dannelly of Charlotte • Erin Devine of Charlotte • Michal Glass of Waxhaw • Erika Natira Holmes of Charlotte • Betty Marlin of Charlotte • Alexandra Ray Brown of Charlotte • Jennie Sass of Concord • Heather Sodee of Mint Hill Eunice M. Smith Scholarship • Diamond Staton-Williams Harrisburg • Jacob Flowers of Mint Hill • Tia Wackerhagen of Charlotte
of
Southwest Region Scholarship • Melissa Robinson of Concord
W
hile we have made progress against cancer, the disease still kills more than 21,000 people a year in North Carolina (https:// cancerstatisticscenter. cancer.org/#!/). As a new mom and cancer advocate, these numbers terrify me. If you are similarly passionate about fighting cancer, it is critical to understand that it will not be won or lost in the research labs or doctors’ offices alone. Government officials make decisions
every day about health issues that affect your life. Lawmakers have the power to fund groundbreaking research and enact popular policies that help people prevent and fight cancer. Do you know where your candidates stand on vital issues like cancer research funding, prevention funding and improving access to healthcare coverage and preventive services? You can learn more by visiting cancervotes.org. I, along with the nearly 18 million cancer survivors in the U.S., urge our U.S. Senate candidates
CHARLOTTE – The Alzheimer’s Association - Western North Carolina Chapter invites the community to join the fight to end Alzheimer’s on Oct. 24 at Romare Bearden Park. The Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Charlotte is presented by The Sharon at SouthPark. Check-in opens at 8:45 a.m., followed by the opening ceremony and the walk. “This is a pivotal moment in the fight against Alzheimer’s. With new treatments and proven lifestyle habits that support brain health, there is real hope,” said Christine JohnFuller, executive director of the Alzheimer’s Association - Western North Carolina Chapter. “Together, we can build a brain-healthy future and help end this disease. We invite everyone to join us by forming a team to raise awareness and funds for families facing Alzheimer’s today.” Visit act.alz.org/Charlotte or call 800-2723900 to register, volunteer or sponsor the event.
Windsor Run residents find purpose
Letter: Candidates should make cancer a priority by Victoria Lymberis Contributor
CHARLOTTE – Charlotte grandparents, grandchildren and families celebrated National Grandparents Day at First Baptist Church-West on Sept. 10 with food, activities and community resources. UnitedHealthcare and First Baptist ChurchWest hosted the free Celebrate Grandparents event with the Charlotte Community Services Association and other community partners. The event promoted intergenerational connections and healthy living. The evening featured a community resource fair and a program honoring grandparents. Families shared a hot meal and enjoyed music, dancing, a kid zone and activities for all ages. Cooking demonstrations offered simple ideas for healthy meals at home. Care Ring provided free health screenings. Grandparents received information about healthy living and available community services. Families also took home food boxes. Grandparents and grandchildren shared meals and danced together. Grandparents also connected with local organizations and learned about available food, health screenings and other services.
to sign the Cancer Promise (https://www.fightcancer. org/cancer-promise) and clearly state their positions on issues that are important to cancer patients and their families. We urge voters to know those positions before they head to the polls. Cancer touches everyone. The candidates need to rise above campaign politics and pledge to make cancer a priority. Victoria Lymberis, of Charlotte, volunteers with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN).
MATTHEWS – Windsor Run residents are a local example of a national shift in how older adults are approaching aging. Residents at the Erickson Senior Living community are showing through fitness, lifelong learning and volunteerism that growing older doesn’t have to mean slowing down. They are staying active, trying new things, building friendships and living full, engaged lives well into their 70s, 80s and beyond. “At Windsor Run, residents enjoy a wide range of opportunities, from lectures to a watercolor painting class, to pickleball and volunteer programs,” Resident Life Director Jillian Perry said. “Retirement today is about staying active, connected and engaged. Our residents continue to learn, grow and find new purpose every day.” On the web: ericksonseniorliving.com/ windsor-run
Moore raises concerns on health care fraud, competition WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) raised concerns about fraud and argued that government subsidies contribute to higher health care costs for families during the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Administrative State, Regulatory Reform, and Antitrust field hearing in Charlotte. The hearing, “Examining Healthcare Markets: Fraud and Competition,” was held Sept. 14 at the Charltote Marriott City Center and examined mergers, certificate-of-need laws, regulations, vertical integration and fraudulent insurance practices. “Despite decades of increased federal spending and regulation, we still see that health care remains too expensive and too difficult to access, not only in North Carolina, but in other states as well,” Moore said. “Part of the problem … is that we move too far away from a health care system that’s driven by competition and toward one shaped by government regulations and subsidies. [The statistic] that a fourth of the spending is estimated to be waste, fraud and abuse is unbelievable [and it’s] what we need to be looking at.”
Windsor Run keeps residents active with activities like pickleball. Photo courtesy of Erickson Senior Living
Ballantyne, Mint Hill earn kudos WINSTON-SALEM – Four Novant Health hospitals have earned Vizient Inc.’s 2026 Bernard A. Birnbaum, MD, Quality Leadership Award. The award recognizes hospitals that demonstrate superior performance in six areas: safety, mortality, effectiveness, efficiency, patient-centeredness and variation in care. Novant Health Ballantyne Medical Center ranked 11th and Novant Health Mint Hill Medical Center ranked 12th among 220 participating small community hospitals. This marks the sixth consecutive year Novant Health Mint Hill Medical Center has earned a Vizient Quality Leadership Award. Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center ranked 17th among 225 participating large, specialized complex care medical centers. Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center ranked third among 89 participating pediatric hospitals. “The expertise, compassion and dedication of our clinicians, nurses and team members are what make high-quality care possible,” said Dr. David Priest, chief safety and quality officer for Novant Health.
Keep Pounding 5K continues tradition for 16th year CHARLOTTE – The Carolina Panthers and Atrium Health’s Levine Children’s Hospital and Levine Cancer Institute hosted the 16th annual Keep Pounding 5K on Sept. 27 to support local cancer programs and research. The race began outside Levine Cancer Institute and finished at Bank of America Stadium. The Keep Pounding initiative, including the annual 5K, has raised more than $4.9 million for cancer programs at Levine Children’s Hospital and Levine Cancer Institute. The campaign originated two decades ago in honor of former Carolina Panthers players Sam Mills and Mark Fields following their cancer diagnoses. Mills coined the phrase “Keep Pounding” during a speech to his teammates.
Adams introduces Sickle Cell Disease-related bills WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Rep. Alma Adams (NC-12) and others reintroduced two bills on Sept. 23 to improve access to care for Americans living with sickle cell disease. The Sickle Cell Disease Treatment Centers Act grows the national network of care for patients with sickle cell disease. The Sickle Cell Care Expansion Act strengthens the medical workforce that treats SCD. “Growing up, my sister Linda was in and out of the emergency room because of sickle cell disease. She lost her battle when she was just 26 years old,” Adams said. “Her story is one that I do not want to see repeated.”
Moore introduces LABEL Act WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) introduced H.R. 10580, the Let Americans Buy with Explicit Labeling Act Act on Sept. 24. The LABEL Act requires that country of origin and production method (wild or farmraised) labels for fish be clearly displayed on the front of consumer packages through amending the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946. “Every American deserves to know where their food comes from,” Moore said “The LABEL Act helps ensure consumers have clear information about where their seafood was caught or raised and how it was produced, right on the front of the package.”
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