WINGATE – Tony Griffey certainly understands how important it is for music students to hear professional artists perform live.
When Griffey was a student at Wingate in the late 1980s, he took in a show at the Metropolitan Opera House while on a univer -
sity-sponsored trip to New York City. From the cheap seats, he turned to Martha Asti, the advisor for the trip, and said, “I’m going to be on a first-name basis with everybody on that stage.”
Wingate did not have an opera program at the time, but Griffey eventually became an opera star, winning Grammys and performing in the world’s most renowned opera houses.
Griffey will have an opportunity to inspire the next generation of Wingate music students March 23 when he performs in the Batte Center’s McGee Theatre. The performance, part of the Noel Musical Artist Series, begins at 4 p.m. Admission is free, and the show is open to the public.
Griffey, a 1990 Wingate graduate known professionally as Anthony Dean
MONROE – Union County Public Schools has announced five finalists for 2025-26 Teacher of the Year.
The district will announce a winner in May. Finalists were picked from 53 schoolbased winners.
“I am consistently impressed by our UCPS teachers, and these individuals are no exception," Superintendent Andrew Houlihan said. “It is a privilege to witness and celebrate the impact they have on our students and I am grateful for their service.”
Here are reactions from the five finalists about being named finalists:
• Jodi Chaffin (Parkwood High): "I’m so honored and really surprised. This is only
my fourth-year teaching, so it’s such a huge honor to be recognized as a top-five finalist. … I just love our students and staff. Everyone’s very supportive, and it’s great to work with all the kids and help them learn math."
• Dylan Chavis (Porter Ridge High): "I truly don’t even know what to say right now. It’s such an honor. I’m a graduate of Union County, so it feels poetic to be here. … I love giving back to the community that gave so much to me. It’s a privilege to be here and make a difference."
• Elizabeth Miles (Waxhaw Elementary): "It feels awesome to know that I’m being honored in this way. It’s so cool to celebrate it with my first graders. … I didn’t
By Chuck Gordon Contributor
WINGATE – It’s not uncommon for new mothers to experience any number of difficulties after giving birth: pain or discomfort, difficulty feeding their newborn, postpartum depression.
Wingate University’s Doctor of Occupational Therapy program is here to help.
In conjunction with an already-established pro bono clinic for adults, the program has started Women, Mothers, Babies, a free clinic to help women in the early days of their child’s life. Clinic days and times are yet to be determined.
Dr. Patee Tomsic, one of four Doctor of Occupational Therapy faculty members who established the clinic, with help from a $10,000 grant from Foundation for a Healthy Carolina, said that occupational therapists’ strength is being able to help with such a wide variety of problems.
“We are such a holistic profession that we are able to help in that holistic way,” she said. “There are a lot of things you can
experience as a mother, and we can help with almost all of them.”
Assistant professors Tomsic, Dr. Wynnet Sinclair and Dr. Reeti Douglas and associate professor Dr. Stacey Caplan came up with the idea for the Women, Mothers, Babies clinic. They all have experience with maternity-related occupational therapy. Sinclair has been providing pelvic-floor therapy for years, helping women who experience incontinence or pelvic pain. Caplan, Tomsic and Douglas all have extensive experience with infant and child development, including specialties working with premature infants, feeding difficulties, torticollis and plagiocephaly, and other physical conditions. All four are becoming certified as lactation counselors.
Other common problems new mothers experience include back and joint pain, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, as well as depression and anxiety. Wingate Doctor of Occupational Therapy faculty members can also provide developmental help for infants.
“Maybe the baby is a couple of months old and they aren’t meeting some of those
Opera star Griffey returning to Wingate for concert
Griffey, has performed on some of the world’s most renowned opera stages: Paris, Sydney, the Met. A lyric tenor, Griffey specializes in English-language productions, such as “Of Mice and Men,” “Peter Grimes” and “A Streetcar Named Desire.”
“He’s an acting singer,” said Jessie Wright Martin, chair of the Wingate music department. “A lot of people really focus on the quality
of their sound. While Tony focuses on his sound and is a truly beautiful singer, what I see when I see him sing is he’s really focused on storytelling and communication.
Singing just happens to be the vehicle.”
Griffey, who comes from a family of High Point factory workers, initially enrolled at
UCPS names Teacher of the Year finalists
expect this at all. I love getting my students to think about how to protect our planet. Sustainable energy – that’s what this is all about!"
• April Little (Shiloh Valley Elementary): "I am just proud to represent Union County Public Schools. I look forward to the next phase of the competition. … We’re educating the whole child and preparing them to be globally ready. We’re part of that, educating lifelong learners."
• Kimberly Spencer (Sandy Ridge Elementary): "It feels like my life's work has just really come together so beautifully. I'm so honored. … The children is what it’s all about. The love they bring me and the love we have every day."
Wingate creates pro bono OT clinic for new mothers, children
early milestones,” Tomsic said. “They can come to us and we can screen the child and provide some education and intervention there.”
The Foundation for a Healthy Carolina grant has gone toward supplies, mostly for lactation support, and continuing education for faculty members, such as in the lactation and mental-health areas.
Students will have hands-on and guided learning opportunities, but not quite to the extent of the student-run pro bono clinic offered by Wingate Doctor of Occupational Therapy, because of the intimate nature of the treatments. But even observing Wingate faculty members in action will be helpful to students.
“It very much supports their learning in that if these are specialty areas that they’re interested in pursuing in their career, they will have this experience already,” Tomsic said.
Two Wingate students have also been instrumental in establishing the clinic, as part of their capstone projects.
Tomsic said that ultimately Wingate
CHARLOTTE – Westlake Ace Hardware has signed lease agreements to open new stores in the Ballantyne area of Charlotte and the village of Wesley Chapel.
A 9,000-square-foot store will be developed in the Ballantyne Commons East Shopping Center (15221 John Delaney Drive). Renovations to the space will begin this spring, with an anticipated soft opening in late summer.
A 15,000-square-foot store in the Village Commons at Wesley Chapel shopping center (6422 Weddington Road, Wesley Chapel) is scheduled to open in early 2026. Construction will start in early 2025.
The stores will sell lawn and garden supplies, fasteners, tools, plumbing and electrical supplies as well as key cutting, automotive key fob replacement and propane tank exchange.
Stores will also showcase specialty departments and store-within-a-store concepts, selling such brands as Stihl, Ego and Milwaukee outdoor power equipment; Benjamin Moore and Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines paints; and Milwaukee, DeWalt and Craftsman power tools.
“We are excited to open two new locations in the greater Charlotte area and deepen our relationship with the community as a friend, a trusted neighbor and an employer,” said Joe Jeffries, president and CEO of Ace Retail Holdings, the parent company of Westlake Ace Hardware. “We look forward to serving our new neighbors and showcase how we live the Ace Helpful Promise daily through reliable service, helpful advice and the products our customers need to get their projects done right.”
Need a job?
The Ballantyne Commons store will begin accepting applications in late spring. Applications for the Wesley Chapel location will be accepted in late fall. Interested applicants are encouraged to email jobs@westlakehardware.com with “Westlake Ace Hardware – Charlotte, N.C.” or “Westlake Ace Hardware – Wesley Chapel” in the subject line.
Dylan Chavis teaches social studies at Porter Ridge High School.
Elizabeth Miles teaches sustainable energy at Waxhaw Elementary School.
Jodi Chaffin teaches math at Parkwood High School. Photos courtesy of UCPS
Kimberly Spencer teaches second grade at Sandy Ridge Elementary School.
April Little teaches Academically and Intellectually Gifted students at Shiloh Valley Elementary School.
Tony Griffey
Westlake Ace owns and operates 14 stores in North Carolina under the Westlake Ace and Outer Banks Ace brands. Two new Westlake Ace locations in the greater Charlotte area will follow the one scheduled to open Feb. 28 in Charlotte’s
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NEWS BRIEFS
Monroe Police: Woman locked boyfriend in storage unit
MONROE – The Monroe Police Department says a woman was arrested in Charlotte on Feb. 27 after locking her boyfriend inside a storage unit.
Officers responded to Cooper Storage at 1950
Old Charlotte Highway at 2:14 p.m. Feb. 24 after a man called 911 saying his girlfriend double locked him inside of a storage unit on Feb. 20,
The man told police that he got into an argument with the suspect and she slammed the door shut, saying “This is what you get,” according to police.
The man told officers he could not find his phone initially because the storage unit was a “hoarder’s paradise,” police said. He was transported to the hospital for dehydration and has been released.
Robin Renae Deaton, 52, was arrested on
charges of attempted murder and kidnapping.
Matthews Police Department investigates armed robbery
MATTHEWS – The Matthews Police Department has a few leads in an armed robbery investigation.
Officers responded to a report of an armed robbery at 6:03 a.m. Feb. 27 in the 3600 block of Straussburg Woods Lane. The victim told officers two men approached him while walking and demanded money. One of them displayed a handgun. The victim said he ran from the area and was shot at. No injuries were reported.
Police described the suspects as two black males between ages 18 and 25 with slim builds. Each wore a mask, black hoodie, black pants and black gloves. They left in a white SUV.
Earlier that morning, officers took a report of a stolen vehicle in the 11000 block of Torino Road involving a white, 2021 Ford Explorer with N.C. registration plate number: RTC-3240.
Police believe these two incidents are connected and the suspects could still be in possession of the vehicle.
The vehicle was last seen in the area of Albemarle Road near Wilgrove Mint Hill Road.
Police said the suspects are considered armed and dangerous and should not be approached by anyone other than law enforcement. They also described these cases as an isolated incident.
Police have dispatched additional patrols in these areas and encourage anyone to call 704847-5555 if they see anything suspicious or have any information about the case.
Sheriff’s office: Driver hit deputy with car
MONROE – The Union County Sheriff’s Office says a Charlotte man is in custody after hitting a deputy with his car while trying to flee from a traffic stop.
While pumping gas in Indian Trail, the deputy spotted the suspect acting suspiciously, including hiding his license plate and face, according to the sheriff’s office. The deputy saw a fictitious license plate on the car.
The sheriff’s office said the deputy initiated a traffic stop and pulled the suspect over but a struggle ensued while trying to get his license and registration, culminating in the suspect using his car to strike the deputy before fleeing.
The chase continued on I-485 toward Pineville.
5 men’s teams survive second round of basketball playoffs
CHAPEL HILL – Five men’s basketball teams have reached the third round of the North Carolina High Athletic Association playoffs. Independence, Monroe, Myers Park, Queen’s Grant and Weddington won their second round matches while Forest Hills fell short of securing its second upset of the tournament.
Third-round matchups take place March 4 (after The Weekly’s print deadline), followed by the fourth round on March 7, west regional final March 10-13 and state championship March 14-15.
4A Bracket
• No. 5 Independence defeated No. 28 Palisades, 54-34, in the first round, and No. 12 Mooresville, 4846, in the second round. The
Patriots play No. 13 Chambers in the third round. The winner plays either No. 1 Lake Norman or No. 9 Myers Park.
• No. 6 Weddington defeated No. 27 Cox Mill, 68-55, in the first round, and No. 11 East Forsyth, 75-70, in the second round. The Warriors will play No. 3 North Mecklenburg in the third round. The winner plays either No. 2 West Forsyth or No. 7 Watauga.
• No. 9 Myers Park defeated No. 24 Butler, 74-65, in the first round, and No. 25 Reagan, 74-53, in the second round. The Mustangs play No. 1 Lake Norman in the third round. The winner plays either No. 5 Independence or No. 13 Chambers.
• No. 16 Charlotte Catholic lost to No. 17 Hopewell, 53-52, in the first round.
• No. 19 South Mecklen-
burg lost to No. 14 Davie County, 69-66, in the first round.
• No. 21 Ardrey Kell lost to No. 12 Mooresville, 6150, in the first round.
• No. 24 Butler lost to No. 9 Myers Park, 74-65 in the first round.
• No. 26 East Mecklenburg lost to No. 7 Watauga, 56-42, in the first round.
• No. 31 Marvin Ridge lost to No. 2 West Forsyth, 77-70, in the first round.
• No. 32 Cuthbertson lost to No. 1 Lake Norman, 89-74, in the first round.
3A Bracket
• No. 9 Piedmont lost to No. 24 Central Davidson, 51-33, in the first round.
2A Bracket
• No. 8 Monroe defeated No. 25 East Burke, 54-46, in the first round, and No.
9 Hendersonville, 59-50, in the second round. The Redhawks play No. 1 Reidsville in the third round. The winner plays either No. 4 Salisbury or No. 12 Lincolnton.
• No. 31 Forest Hills defeated No. 2 Randleman, 70-62, in the first round, and lost to No. 15 Bandys, 80-62, in the second round.
1A Bracket
• No. 3 Queen’s Grant defeated No. 30 Union Academy, 69-41, in the first round, and No. 19 Winston-Salem Prep, 67-53, in the second round. The Stallions play No. 22 East Wilkes in the third round. The winner plays either No. 2 South Stokes or No. 7 Eastern Randolph.
• No. 30 Union Academy lost to No. 3 Queen’s Grant, 69-41, in the first round.
4 area women’s basketball teams win second-round matchups
CHAPEL HILL
– Forest Hills, Marvin Ridge, Queen’s Grant and South Mecklenburg women’s basketball teams advanced to the third round of the North Carolina High Athletic Association playoffs. They were among 14 teams from southern Mecklenburg and Union counties to qualify for the tournament. Third-round matchups take place March 4 (after The Weekly’s print deadline), followed by the fourth round on March 7, west regional final March 10-13 and state championship March 14-15.
4A Bracket
• No. 5 Marvin Ridge defeated No. 28 Southwest
Guilford, 58-46, in the first round and No. 12 Grimsley, 59-50, in the second round. The Mavericks play No. 13 Hickory Ridge in the third round. The winner plays either No. 1 McDowell or No. 8 South Mecklenburg.
• No. 8 South Mecklenburg defeated No. 25 Reagan, 78-50, in the first round and No. 9 Davie County, 64-58, in the second round. The Sabres play No. 1 McDowell in the third round. The winner plays either No. 5 Marvin Ridge or No. 13 Hickory Ridge.
• No. 7 Butler defeated No. 26 Myers Park, 52-39, in the first round and lost to No. 10 North Mecklenburg, 69-54, in the second round.
• No. 22 Charlotte
Catholic defeated No. 11 South Caldwell, 77-57, in the first round and lost to No. 6 Northern Guilford, 65-57, in the second round.
• Ardrey Kell, Myers Park, Porter Ridge, Rocky River and Weddington qualified for the playoffs but lost in the first round.
3A Bracket • Parkwood qualified for the playoffs but lost in the first round.
2A Bracket • No. 6 Forest Hills defeated No. 27 West Stanley, 76-52, in the first round and No. 11 East Surry, 67-37, in the second round. The Yellow Jackets play No. 19 Bandys in the third round. The win-
The suspect crashed his car and ran into a wooded area. Officers caught him the next day.
Jacob Clark, 25, of Charlotte, was arrested on charges of assault with a deadly weapon on a law enforcement officer, felony fleeing to elude arrest and several traffic-related offenses. He was placed in the Union County Detention Center under a secured bond exceeding $1 million, according to the sheriff’s office.
The deputy was not seriously injured.
Crafting guild to showcase handmade goods, skills
CHARLOTTE – CRAFT Guild CLT plans to uplift fiber and textile arts through its fourth annual CRAFT Fest.
Highlights include a viewers choice art show, hourly demonstrations of skills and shopping a selection of artisan vendors. Interactive elements include a free make-n-take station and in-depth classes.
The festival serves as the largest fundraising event of the year for the Charlotte Region Arts, Fibers and Textiles Guild. Proceeds contribute to the nonprofit’s education, outreach and charitable efforts, ensuring handmade skills in fiber and textile arts are preserved and passed on to new generations.
“Our guild is dedicated to reaching new crafters who have never tried fiber or textile arts before,” said Caitlin Goodnight, festival coordinator. “We love our craft and our community and want to keep these skills alive and well.”
CRAFT Guild CLT presents CRAFT Fest from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. March 29 and noon to 4 p.m. March 30 at Petty Thieves Brewing. 413 Dalton Ave., Suite B.
Learn more about the event, register for classes and enter the art show at WeCraftCLT.org.
Ballantyne to hold donation drive
CHARLOTTE – Ballantyne will hold an Earth Day donation drive April 22 benefiting Books on the House and Goodwill.
The community can bring in donations from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 22 at Brixham Park, 15810 Ballantyne Medical Place.
Donations of clothing and batteries (regular batteries and electronics batteries only) will be accepted for Goodwill.
New and gently used adult and kids books will be accepted for Books on the House.
UNC System marks ninth year without in-state tuition hike
By David Beasley Contributor
(The Center Square) – Tuition for out of state undergraduate students at UNC-Chapel Hill was increased during the Feb. 27 meeting of the board of governors.
Costs remain the same for in-state students in the entire university system. It marked the ninth straight year without a tuition increase for in-state undergraduate students, Andy Wallace, spokesman for the university system, told The Center Square.
“UNC System is the only system in the country able to say that,” Wallace said.
The increases approved Feb. 27 will bring the out-ofstate tuition at Chapel Hill to $43,152. The revenue from the increase would be used for faculty and staff retention, academic support, campus safety, and to “offset the inflationary impacts on contracted services,” according to the university system.
Chapel Hill received 51,181 first-year applications from out-of-state residents for admission in fall 2024, according to the university system.
Only 18% of first-year slots at Chapel Hill are available for out-of-state and international students, leaving 82% for in-state residents.
ner plays either No. 2 East Burke or No. 7 Lexington.
• Monroe qualified for the playoffs but lost in the first round.
1A Bracket • No. 9 Queen’s Grant defeated No. 24 Jimmy C. Draughn, 78-53, in the first round and No. 8 Thomas Jefferson, 72-66, in the second round. The Stallions play No. 1 Bishop McGuinness in the third round. The winner plays either No. 5 Mountain Heritage or No. 13 Avery County.
• No. 12 Union Academy defeated No. 21 Robbinsville, 62-45, in the first round and lost to No. 5 Mountain Heritage, 55-45, in the second round.
The university system governing board also kept tuition the same – $500 per semester – at Elizabeth City State University, Fayetteville State University, UNC Pembroke and Western Carolina University in the NC Promise program.
The NC Promise Program has “increased educational access, reduced student debt and grown the state’s economy,” the university system says on its website.
The percentage of bachelor’s degree students in the UNC System with federal loan debt at graduation is actually dropping, Wallace added. It has gone from 61.2% in 2018-19 to 49.9% in 2023-24, the spokesman said.
In their request for tuition increases this year for out-ofstate students and some in-state graduate students, North Carolina universities cited inflation as a factor.
Appalachian State, for example, was approved Feb. 27 for a 3% increase for both in- and out-of-state graduate students and all out-of-state undergraduates.
“Revenues resulting from this increase will be used to offset the impacts of inflation on supplies, materials and services; to invest in classroom equipment and technology; and to provide for new faculty and academic advisor positions to support the growing student population at the Boone and Hickory campuses,” a university system document states.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Seniors' Health Insurance Information Program explains Medicare and plans during Medicare 101 at Union County Public Libray’s Monroe branch. uclnc.org
10-11:30 a.m.; 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe
Various locations
Bilingual Familytime Families listen to a story and song in Spanish and English and work on a craft during Bilingual Familytime at Union County Library’s Main Library. clnc.org 2-2:30 p.m.; 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe
March 10
Storytime Children, ages 2-5, build literacy skills at a storytime held at Lois Morgan Edwards Memorial Library. uclnc.org 9:30-10 or 10:30-11 a.m.; 414 Hasty St., Marshville
Mad Libs Children in grades 1-5 create poetry with mad libs at Union West Regional Library. uclnc.org
4:30-5 p.m.; 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail
March 11
Storytime Children, ages 2-5, build literacy skills at a storytime held at Union West Regional Library. uclnc.org
9:30-10 a.m. or 10:30-11 a.m.; 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail
Medicare 101 A rep from the Council of Aging
Iditarod Adventure Children in grades K-5 learn about a 1,000-mile dog sled race at Union West Regional Library. uclnc.org 4-5 p.m.; 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail
Book Club Evelyn’s Book Club discusses "Table For Two" by Amor Towles at Union County Public Library’s Monroe branch. uclnc.org
5:30-6:30 p.m.; 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe
March 12
Storytime Children, ages 2-5, build literacy skills at a Babies and Books storytime held at Southwest Regional Library. uclnc.org
9:30-10 a.m. or 10:30-11 a.m.; 1515
Cuthbertson Road, Waxhaw
Storytime
Children, ages 2-5, build literacy skills at a storytime held at Union West Regional Library. uclnc.org
9:30-10 a.m. or 10:30-11 a.m.; 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail
Book Club The Lit & Lattes
Book Club discusses “The Only Survivors”
by Megan Miranda at Sorella Coffee. uclnc.org
1-2 p.m.; 107 S. Main St., Monroe
Eggstravaganza
Families decorate eggs using various materials during Eggstravaganza at Southwest Regional Library. uclnc.org
5:30-6:30 p.m.; 1515 Cuthbertson Road, Waxhaw
Resume Workshop
Adults learn how to use library resources to create a resume at Union West Regional Library. uclnc.org
5:30-6:30 p.m.; 123 UnionvilleIndian Trail Road, Indian Trail
March 13
Storytime Children, ages 2-5, build literacy skills at a Babies and Books storytime held at Southwest Regional Library. uclnc.org
9:30-10 a.m. or 10:30-11 a.m.; 1515 Cuthbertson Road, Waxhaw
Chick Talk
Children learn the life cycle of a chicken during Chick Talk at Lois Morgan Edwards Memorial Library. uclnc.org
11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 414 Hasty St., Marshville
Books into Blossoms
Adults turn pages into flowers during Books into Blossoms at Southwest Regional Library. uclnc.org
5-6 p.m.; 1515 Cuthbertson Road, Waxhaw
Teen Money Smarts
SouthState Bank explains money management techniques during Teen Money Smarts at Union West Regional Library. uclnc.org
5;30-6:30 p.m.; 123 UnionvilleIndian Trail Road, Indian Trail
Read Aloud Ms. Lisa reads a NC Children’s Picture Book nominee to children at Union County Public Library’s Monroe branch. uclnc. org
5:30-6 p.m.; 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe
March 14
Butterfly Day Families celebrate Butterfly Day through activities inspired by “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” at Union County Public Library’s Monroe branch. uclnc.org
10:30-11:30 a.m.; 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe
Babies & Books
Children, ages 0-2, build literacy skills at a Babies and Books storytime at
Summer Pops series returning to Charlotte’s Symphony Park
The Charlotte Sympho-
ny Orchestra’s Summer Pops series returns to Symphony Park in June with four Sunday evening performances led by Resident
Summer Pops brings thousands of people together to enjoy food, music and fireworks under the stars.
This year’s lineup includes classical works, Broadway tunes, Latin rhythms and a patriotic fireworks display.
“One of the things I most love about summertime in Charlotte is seeing everyone gathered together at Symphony Park for our Summer Pops series,” Lees said. “There's an indescribable feeling when you see different generations enjoying the experience of listening to the sensational artists of the Charlotte Symphony under a canopy of stars. Whether this is a person's first or 71st Summer Pops season, the uplifting and inspiring memories of those special evenings will be ones to treasure for years to come."
Novant Health is sponsoring this year’s show.
“Few traditions capture the essence of summer in Charlotte like the Summer Pops concert series,” Said Sid Fletcher, senior vice pres-
ident of Novant Health’s Charlotte Region.
“Novant Health is honored to help bring this iconic event to life, alongside the Charlotte Symphony, creating lifelong memories for all. We are dedicated to bringing remarkable experiences to life within the communities we serve, and we value the vital role that music plays in promoting wellness and connection.”
Each Sunday carries a different theme:
• June 8: Classical's Greatest Hits –
Opening night features an evening of melodies and orchestral masterpieces that have been cherished for generations and celebrated in films, commercials and pop culture. In the second half, the Charlotte Symphony Youth Orchestra will join the symphony for a special performance.
• June 15: Best of Broadway – Take a musical journey through the Great White Way as the Charlotte Symphony performs smash hits from some of Broadway’s most iconic shows, including “Wicked,” “The Phantom of the Opera” and a sweeping Rodgers & Hammerstein medley.
• June 22: Latin Sounds – Ignite the evening with Latin rhythms, featuring the music by legendary Latin composers and pieces inspired by the rich sounds of Latin America.
• June 29: Celebrate America – Charlotte
Walk to End Alzheimer’s among Top 30 walks nationwide
CHARLOTTE – The Alzheimer’s Association – Western Carolina Chapter announced that its 2024 Walk to End Alzheimer’s - Charlotte has been ranked No. 24 in the nation out of the Alzheimer’s Association’s 2024 Top 30 Walks.
The Charlotte fundraiser has been included in this top ranking since 2016 and is the largest fundraiser for Alzheimer’s and other dementia awareness, care, support and research.
Nearly 2,000 participants in the 2024 Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Charlotte raised $744,500.
“We appreciate our walk participants, volunteers, sponsors and staff for consistently making this event so successful and impactful to our community,” said Katherine Lambert,
WINGATE from 1A
Doctor of Occupational Therapy would like to provide group education in addition to the clinic. “Let’s say there are five women who are interested in learning more about the ins and outs of breastfeeding or common strategies for strengthening the pelvic floor,” she said. “We could serve them with a community education class.”
CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association - Western Carolina Chapter. “The critical funds raised make a difference for the 210,000 North Carolinians living with Alzheimer’s and their 373,000 caregivers.”
Rankings are earned by overall event revenue, and include walks from over 600 communities nationwide. In 2024, more than 371,000 people participated in more than 600 walks across the country, raising $103 million — a record amount for any single year since the inception of the world’s largest event to fight the disease.
“These vital funds enable the association to deliver 24/7 care and support, advocate fearlessly for people facing the disease and fuel groundbreaking research across the globe,” said Coulter Warlick, 2024 volunteer chair
For now, Tomsic is just ready to bring in more patients.
“It’s just a matter of them finding out about us and making it over here,” she said.
Referrals to or inquiries about the Women, Mothers, Babies clinic can be made via email to WoMB@wingate.edu or by phone at 704233-8972.
On the web: wingate.edu/ academics/graduate/occupational-therapy
Symphony performs patriotic favorites and American classics with a thrilling fireworks finale.
Summer Pops concerts are held at Symphony Park at SouthPark Mall, 4400 Sharon Road.
Gates open at 5 p.m. Prelude performances, featuring local musicians and ensembles, begin at 7 p.m. Charlotte Symphony performances begin at 8:15 p.m. Tickets are on sale at charlottesymphony. org/summer.
Advance general admission tickets for Classical’s Greatest Hits, Best of Broadway and Latin Sounds cost $15 for adults and $5 for youth (ages 13 to 18). Celebrate America costs $18 for adults and $5 for youth. Children 12 and under are free but will need a ticket to attend. Prices increase for day-of purchases. Subscriptions to all four Summer Pops concerts are available and include reserved spaces on the lawn. Parking is free.
of the Executive Leadership Team for Walk to End Alzheimer’s - Charlotte. “And this is only the beginning. With the current advances in treatment, our work is more important than ever. We won’t rest until everyone living with the disease – at any stage – can get the treatment, care and support they need and deserve.”
In addition to the top ranking of the Charlotte event, several local teams and individuals earned national rankings. Among the Top 50 Walk Teams nationwide was Senior Living Communities at No. 44 raising
Wingate with more modest goals: He saw himself leading church music worship. His music professors realized his immense talent and began to steer him toward a performance career, especially after seeing him act in “Little Mary Sunshine,” a musical put on by former theater director and communications professor Larry Coleman. Griffey’s professors en -
couraged him to go on to graduate school, and he was given a full scholarship to the Eastman School of Music, one of the top music schools in the U.S. (Griffey has taught at Eastman since 2015.) He later studied under the famed classical-music teacher Beverly Johnson at Juilliard. There, he earned a master’s degree (his second) and was accepted into a three-year apprenticeship program. Griffey went on to a
$67,780. Earning spots among the Top 100 Walk Participants nationwide were Charlotte participants Josh Thompson (Senior Living Communities) who raised $31,540, Stuart Goldstein (Team Cadwalader), who raised $27,746 and Wesley Misson (Team Cadwalader), who raised $25,085. The Alzheimer’s Association will be hosting its 2025 Walk to End Alzheimer’s - Charlotte on Saturday, Oct. 18 at Truist Field. Registration is already open. Participants and teams can register by visiting act.alz.org/ charlotte or calling 800-272-3900.
stellar career, beating out Placido Domingo for a pair of Grammys in 2009, for the recording of his performance in “The Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny,” alongside Patti Lupone and Audra McDonald. He won two more in 2010 for his work on two Mahler pieces with the San Francisco Symphony.
Griffey’s appearance at Wingate is his first since 2019. He will also conduct a master class on March 24 at 4 p.m., giving students
a chance to learn from his decades on the stage and his time teaching at Eastman. The master class is also open to the public and free of charge.
In master classes, Martin has heard Griffey say, “You should never perform to impress. You should always perform to express.”
“There’s a big difference,” Martin said. “Tony is always so authentic in his performances.”
CHARLOTTE –
Conductor Christopher James Lees.
Charlotte Symphony Orchestra’s Summer Pops series is a tradition spanning 42 years.
Michael Harding/Genesis Photography Group photo courtesy of Charlotte Symphony Orchestra
The 2024 Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Charlotte raised $744,500.
Photo courtesy of Alzheimer’s Association – Western Carolina Chapter
Local Artisans and Craftsmen Demos This Weekend at Taste Full ARTS, The Graceful Geese Mercantile and Of Great Taste Artisan Gallery.
Nurse becomes special agent in new Netflix series
CHARLOTTE – When Eden Lee is not following her creative passion as an actress, she steps into the real-world role as emergency room nurse to serve her community and save lives.
The Korean-American actress has been busy lately transforming into Special Agent Angela Kim recurring alongside Robert DeNiro in “Zero Day,” a Netflix political thriller series that debuted Feb. 20.
The story centers around former U.S. President George Mullen (DeNiro), who is called out of retirement to find the source of the deadly ‘Zero Day’ cyberattack. With a carefully appointed commission, including Special Agent Angela Kim, they discover lies and conspiracies. Is the greatest threat a foreign power or from within?
Lee is part of an all-star cast that includes Lizzy Caplan, Jesse Plemons, Joan Allen, Connie Britton and Angela Bassett.
“Getting the call that I was working on ‘Zero Day’ was a true ‘pinch me’ moment,” Lee said. “The existence of Special Agent
Angela Kim in this story, a woman of color within the FBI, wasn’t lost on me. From start to finish, Lesli Linka Glatter and her entire team made sure I felt integral to the show. I’m forever grateful for the opportunity to work alongside and learn from the best in the business.”
Audiences may recognize Lee from several roles, most notably alongside Anthony Mackie in the Peacock comedy series “Twisted Metal,” based on the PlayStation video games.
She emerged as Writer Jessica, based on showrunner Jessica Gao, in the finale episode of Marvel Comics series “She-Hulk: Attorney at Law” for Disney+.
Her previous credits also include AMC drama “Parish” opposite Giancarlo Esposito, NBC crime drama “Found,” BET romance comedy “First Wives Club,” The CW drama reboot “Dynasty,” and the family-friendly feature film “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret” opposite Rachel McAdams.
Dasha bringing the party to Charlotte
CHARLOTTE –
Pop-country star Dasha recently released a new single, “Not At This Party,” via Warner Records as she prepares to embark on several months of touring.
Dasha will perform at Raleigh’s Coastal Credit Union Music Park on July 31 and PNC Music Pavilion on Aug. 1. Thomas Rhett will also perform at these shows.
“‘Not At This Party was a title I’d been carrying around for a while,” Dasha said. “It’s about that universal experience of being out with friends, but mentally checked out. When I wrote it with Ashley Gorley and Ben Johnson, I was going through something with a guy, and the song just flowed. We really tried to capture that mix of distraction and guilt in the song.”
Aerin Moreno (Tate McRae, Tyla) directed a music video for the song, which has been in rotation on CMT and MTV channels.
Dasha is coming off an eventful 2024, having sold out her first global headlining tour and performed on Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and “Dick Clark’s Rockin’ New Year’s Eve.” On the web: itsdashabitch. com/#tour
March 7
• Amos’ Southend: Adam Church
• Blackfinn Ameripub: Daniel Langdon
• Evening Muse: Ellis Paul; Camisole & Wilmot
• Great Wagon Road
Distillery: Davy Williamson
• Jekyll & Hyde (Waxhaw): Dustin Yager
• Middle James Brewing: Analog Crash
• Moochies Tavern: Jam Garden
• Neighborhood Theatre: Moe.
• Shep’s Bar & Grill: Matthew Ablan
• Southern Range Brewing Company: James Delco
• Stooges Pub & Grub: Unknown Artist
• The Club House: Reckless Betty
• The Courthouse SelfPour Beer & Wine: Jack Fontana
• The Fillmore: Palace
• The Trail House: Carolina Honey
• The Underground: Make
Them Suffer
• Visulite Theatre: Allman Brothers (tribute)
March 8
• Amos’ Southend: 84
• Evening Muse: Lilly Hiatt
• Great Wagon Road
Distillery: Jen Alvarado
• Home Brew Taproom & Tunes: Joe Middleton
• Local Logic: Trace Casanova
• Mary O’Neill’s Irish Pub: Adam Daniels
• Moochies Tavern: Grüv Soup
• Neighborhood Theatre: The Main Squeeze
• SmallBar Matthews: Coconut Groove Band
• Southern Range Brewing Company: Traxx Trio
• Stooges Pub & Grub: Sweet Leaf
• The Fillmore: Trap Karaoke
• The Painted Tree: Carrie Ann
• The Trail House: Static Pool
• Two Buck Saloon: Little Johnny Trailer Trash
• Visulite Theatre: Deaf Andrews
March 9
• Amos’ Southend: Amaria
• Home Brew Taproom & Tunes: Beau Norwood
• The Fillmore: Arizona
• The Underground: Role Model
March 10
• Amos’ Southend: Goldford
• Evening Muse: Open Mic
• Ovens Auditorium: Gary Clark Jr.
March 11
• Evening Muse: BJ Barham
• Neighborhood Theatre: Brass Against
• The Fillmore: Movements with Citizen
• Visulite Theatre: Ritual
March 12
• Evening Muse: Howard McNair Jr.
• Ovens Auditorium: The Righteous Brothers
• Peddlers Paradise
Bartique: Open Mic
• Shep’s Bar & Grill: Pressley Laton
• The Club House: Matthew Coleman
• The Trail House: Pluto for Planet
March 13
• Bojangles Coliseum: GloRilla
• Evening Muse: Noah Guthrie w/ Bonnie Stewart
• Great Wagon Road
Distillery: Open Mic w/ Water’s Edge Trio
• Neighborhood Theatre: Marvelous Funkshun w/ The Groove Skeletons
• Ovens Auditorium: KC & the Sunshine Band
• Visulite Theatre: Jerry Garcia Band Cover Band
March 14
• Amos’ Southend: Jed Harrelson
• Evening Muse: Caroline
Rose; Something Comforting
• Great Wagon Road Distillery: Traxx
• Moochies Tavern: Sweet Talkin’ Johnny
• Ovens Auditorium: Joe Bonamassa
• Stooges Pub & Grub: Coconut Groove Band
• The Club House: Dusk Till Dawn
• The Trail House: Smokin’ Gunn
• The Underground: Tommy Richman
• Visulite Theatre: Signal Fire
March 15
• Adela’s Mexican Kitchen: Dusk Till Dawn
• Amos’ Southend: Undertow
• Evening Muse: Justin Wells w/ Jack Blocker; Ajeva and Funkwondo
• Grapes Bistro: Josey Wails
• Hayne Street Tavern: Noel Burke and Dale Harris
• Home Brew Taproom & Tunes: Tom & Toni
• Moochies Tavern: Action Jaxxon
• Neighborhood Theatre: Abi Carter w/ Laur Elle
• Southern Range Brewing Company: Analog Crash
• Stooges Pub & Grub: Darren Deese
• The Trail House: Coconut Groove Band
• The Underground: This Wild Life
• Visulite Theatre: Melt
• Waxhaw Taphouse:
Smokin’ Gunn Venues
Charlotte
• Amos’ Southend: 1423 S. Tryon St.
• Blackfinn Ameripub: 14825 Ballantyne Village Way
• Bojangles Coliseum: 2700 E. Independence Blvd.
• Evening Muse: 3227 N. Davidson St.
• Neighborhood Theatre: 511 E. 36th St.
• Ovens Auditorium: 2700
E. Independence Blvd.
• Spectrum Center: 333 E. Trade St.
• The Club House: 16709
Orchard Stone Run
• The Fillmore: 820
Hamilton St.
• The Underground: 820
Hamilton St.
• Visulite Theatre: 1615
Elizabeth Ave.
Indian Trail
• Grapes Bistro: 6461 Old Monroe Road
• The Trail House: 6751
Old Monroe Road
Matthews
• Mac’s Speed Shop: 142
E. John St.
• The Painted Tree: 1813
Matthews Township Pkwy.
Mint Hill
• Shep’s Bar & Grill: 8111
Fairview Road
• Stooges Pub &
Actress Eden Lee can be seen in Netflix’s “Zero Day” from creators Eric Newman, Noah Oppenheim and Michael S. Schmidt as well as director Lesli Linka Glatter. Josh Stringer photo
Dasha’s “Austin (Boots Stop Workin’)” became one of the most-streamed country songs in 2024 and won the People’s Choice Country Awards for Female Song.
Christina Byson photo
Make your St. Patrick’s Day spread green with envy
(Culinary.net) Freshen up your St. Patrick’s Day menu with easy, light sandwiches inspired by the traditional color of the festivities. These open-faced noshes can be perfect for lunch, snack time or even as an appetizer for get-togethers with friends and family.
Layered with a smooth cream cheese and mozzarella mixture then topped with crisp cucumber and a stem of green bell pepper, these St. Patrick’s Day Sandwiches are easy and cute, which makes them a fan favorite at nearly any green gathering. They’re also sprinkled with lemon juice to add a little acidity and create a nice, light bite.
Plus, this recipe is quick to make. When you’re in a rush to get everything on the table for the party, it’s easy to throw together and get on the platter in next to no time.
The sandwiches pop off the plate with their bright, seasonal garnishes. While sure to attract attention and have your loved ones asking “Where did you get this idea?” they’re also an easy way to sneak a few vegetables into your kids’ diets.
For more festive recipes and ideas at Culinary.net.
DINING SCORES
St. Patrick’s Day Sandwiches
Yield: 8 sandwiches
8 ounces plain cream cheese spread, softened
1 cup finely shr edded mozzarella
cheese
salt
4 English muffins
24 slices cucumber
8 thin slices green pepper fresh cilantro leaves
lemon juice lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
In bowl, mix cream cheese spread, mozzarella cheese and salt well.
Split English muffins in half. Cut each muffin half into shamrock shape.
Spread cheese mixture over each muffin half.
Place three cucumbers on each “shamrock,” one on each “leaf.” Use green pepper slice as stem. Place cilantro leaf on top of each sandwich.
Sprinkle sandwiches with lemon juice and add lemon slices, for garnish, if desired.
Snooze A.M. Eatery launches new breakfast bowls CHARLOTTE – Snooze A.M. Eatery has rolled out three new lifestyle bowls. The bowls balance sweet and savory options with menu items that align with more health-conscious lifestyles. The lineup includes:
• Keto Breakfast Bowl: Baby spinach and shredded carrots dressed with Dijon vinaigrette topped with a Snooze signature chicken sausage patty, cage-free hard-boiled eggs, avocado, seared tomato, scallions and spice. • Protein BLT Bowl: Two cage-free scrambled eggs, two slices of Snooze signature bacon, Polidori breakfast sausage crumble, seared tomato, avocado, house-made pickled red onions and a pinch of Maldon salt atop Dijon vinaigrette-dressed baby spinach and carrots. • Farmer’s Market Veggie Bowl: Slow-roasted sweet potato, seared tomato, avocado, Dijon vinaigrette-dressed baby spinach and carrots and cagefree hard-boiled eggs finished with toasted sesame and spices.
Sullivan’s Steakhouse offers St. Patrick’s Day drinks CHARLOTTE – Sullivan’s Steakhouse patrons can sip on two exclusive, festive cocktails March 15 to 17 from a limited-time St. Patrick’s Day drink menu. The Shamrock Martini will feature a blend of Ketel One Vodka, Midori, Cointreau, fresh lime and lemon juice, and edible glitter for a sparkling treat ($16). The Four-Leaf Clover Old Fashioned is a St. Patrick’s Day spin on the classic old fashioned with Four Roses Small Batch Bourbon, simple syrup, Angostura Bitters and Peychaud’s Bitters ($15).
Area Chamber of Commerce will hold its 45th anniversary celebration
as well as celebrate the grand opening of a member business in the next few days.
• Members celebrate the grand opening of Simone Medical with a ribbon cutting from 11 a.m. to noon March 7 at 10806 Monroe Road. The ribbon gets cut at 11:30 a.m. Register in advance.
• The chamber celebrates its 45th anniversary during a formal business/cocktail attire event from 6 to 8 p.m. March 8 at Matthews Ballroom, 189 N. Trade St. Registration costs $45. Register in advance. Visit matthewschamber.org to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Mint Hill Chamber happenings MINT HILL – The Mint Hill Chamber of Commerce will host a Coffee Connections event and Monthly Member Luncheon in the week ahead.
• Members mingle during Coffee Connections from 8 to 9 a.m. March 7 at the chamber office, 7900 Matthews-Mint Hill Road. Register in advance.
• Toya Patterson, of Truliant Federal Credit Union, talks about “Stretching Your Food Dollar” during the Monthly Member Luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 11 at Olde Sycamore Golf Plantation, 7500 Olde Sycamore Drive. Register in advance. Visit minthillchamberofcommerce.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Union County Chamber happenings
MONROE – The Union County Chamber of Commerce will celebrate a member business and onboard new members in the next week.
• Members celebrate the grand opening of Elegance Unveiled Event Studio with a ribbon cutting from 4 to 4:30 p.m. March 11 at 3808 Meeting St, Lake Park. Register
Snooze A.M. Eatery has introduced Farmer’s Market Veggie Bowl, Keto Breakfast Bowl and Protein BLT Bowl.
Photo courtesy of Snooze A.M. Eatery
My car got dizzy following the lines on the road
By Tony Marciano Contributor
Whenever there was a threat of snow in the North, they put salt on the roads to help melt it and make travel safer. While it worked, it destroyed the metal on the car. Especially the area behind any of the wheels. The combination of the snow and salt was sprayed by the tire onto the metal. Many cars had huge gaping holes behind the tires, especially the rear wheels. That was because when the tire spun in the snow, it sprayed that wintery mix of snow and salt onto the rear quarter panel. My sister had a 1968 Plymouth Fury with a hole so big, you could put your hand through it. I am grateful that in the South, we do not use salt. Rather, we use brine. You can tell when the truck has gone by as there are lines
of brine on the road.
Just prior to the second blizzard of 2025, I was driving along a road. You could tell that the brine truck had just come by. The lines were pronounced. They were bold. They stood out from the black road surface. What was interesting was that there were not just the lines that you see after the brine truck passes by; there were a lot of lines. Did I say a lot of lines? There were too many to count.
My car has a feature on it that tells you when you go out of the lane. It reads the lines on the road. If there is a slight deviation, it flashes blue. If it is significant, it flashes orange. It will also bump the steering wheel to remind you to get back in your lane.
My car got confused. Actually, it got dizzy. It saw all these lines on the road and did not know which line to choose. It got scared. The
Voters deserve information on fiscal crisis
By John Hood Contributor
RALEIGH — Every citizen who meets the basic requirements – adulthood, residency and the completion of sentence after a felony conviction – can cast a ballot in North Carolina.
There’s no test of civic knowledge required to exercise the civil right to vote, nor should there be. (Our state constitution still contains a Jim Crow-era literacy test to vote, but it’s vestigial and unenforceable.)
That having been said, effective self-government is difficult to sustain when voters lack basic information about candidates, issues and our constitutional system. Surveys show such ignorance is especially prevalent among young people. In a recent poll of Americans aged 18 to 24, only a quarter knew the vice president breaks ties in the U.S. Senate. Most thought the Electoral College had responsibilities other than electing presidents, such as regulating campaign finance or certifying congressional elections.
Here in North Carolina, the latest High Point University poll tested the political knowledge of state residents. Some of the results, while troubling, fell short of catastrophic. Most respondents to the survey, conducted in late January, knew that Republicans currently control the U.S. House of Representatives, though 13% said the Democrats did and 22% were unsure. Two-thirds identified the GOP as the more conservative party and 55% knew that the U.S. Supreme Court was the federal branch empowered to declare a law unconstitutional.
But North Carolinians flubbed this question: “As far as you know, does the federal government spend more on Social Security or foreign aid?”
Just 21% knew the correct answer. Social Security accounts for one-fifth of total federal spending. Foreign aid is about 1%. Alas, most North Carolinians thought either that foreign aid was the bigger expenditure (41%) or that the U.S. spent about the same on foreign aid and Social Security (10%). The rest admitted they didn’t know.
I concede that civic knowledge isn’t a game of Jeopardy. Voters need not know which president prosecuted the Mexican-American War (North
By Mike Causey Contributor
Almost everyone, at some point, has a question about insurance. They may not understand their Explanation of Benefits on a health insurance claim. They may have a question about their insurance bill, or they may be going back and forth with their insurance company over a claim.
Fortunately, the department has a whole team of exper07ts whose mission is to help answer your insurance questions. The department’s Consumer Services Division will answer your calls at our toll-free number, 855-408-1212, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Before you call, you may want to check out a wealth of insurance information on our website, ncdoi.gov.
After navigating to our website, click on the “Consumers” tab. There you’ll find information about all kinds of insurance – automobile, homeowners, life, health and an array of more specialized insurance types.
Scroll down and you can click on a link to assist you in filing a complaint. Or, you can click on the “Consumer Publications” link which will allow you to download consumer guides to different kinds of insurance.
There are certain things that we can and cannot do. Our consumer experts can:
• Help you understand your insurance policy.
• Forward a copy of your complaint to your insurance company and require the company to provide a response or an explanation.
• Review the response by the company. We can make sure the company is complying with state laws and regulations. In addition, we can
Carolina’s own James K. Polk) or was the first to be impeached (another native Tar Heel, Andrew Johnson) in order to exercise their franchise responsibly. Still, as America continues to stumble toward a fiscal crisis of unprecedented magnitude, far too few of us have a firm grasp on its primary causes and probable consequences.
If present trends continue, publicly held federal debt (excluding debts owed by one part of the government to another) will hit a record 106% of gross domestic product in 2027 and shoot up to 122% of GDP by 2034. Washington is now spending more on interest payments to bondholders than on national defense.
The U.S. House has just approved budget targets that, if fully implemented in subsequent legislation, would extend the tax cuts enacted during President Trump’s first term (generally good) and reduce future spending growth by trillions of dollars (also good). Unfortunately, under all reasonable scenarios, it also guarantees multi-trillion-dollar deficits as far as the eye can see.
Why aren’t voters more upset about all this? The reason isn’t a lack of concern. The vast majority say they worry “a great deal” or a “fair amount” about federal spending and deficits. The problem is that they misunderstand the causes and underestimate the necessary remedies.
Far too many left-leaning people think it’s largely a revenue matter and can be addressed by hiking taxes on millionaires and billionaires. As I’ve pointed out many times, doing so might realistically nudge federal revenues up modestly as a share of GDP, by a percentage point or so. But our deficits are running closer to 7% of GDP.
Far too many right-leaning people believe combating fraud and axing a few programs like foreign aid will do the job. Nah. The sum of Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, national defense and debt service represents 76% of all federal spending. Eliminate every other federal expenditure and that still wouldn’t balance the budget (Washington currently finances nearly 30% of its budget by borrowing).
Voters deserve to know the truth. They deserve politicians willing to speak it.
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).
part of the screen that shows that I am in the lines gave up the ghost. It was as if it was saying, “I cannot do this. There are just too many lines on the road. I can’t choose any one line because it may not be the right line. I know. I’ll just shut down until the road returns to normal.” My car does a lot of talking to me.
Did you ever think that you may be living your life in the same way my car was trying to figure which line was correct and which line it should follow? In today’s world, there are a lot of voices pulling on us to go this way or to go that way. Do this with your life or do that with your life. There is this opportunity or that opportunity. We get so overwhelmed that just like my car, we shut down and do nothing.
There is a Scripture verse that says, “All things are good, but not all things are helpful.
All things are good but I will not be bound by all things.”
There are a lot of things, good things (notice I said “good things” ) that compete for our time and attention. They’re not bad. They are helpful to you and to others. Yet, when we try to follow the many lines on the road to life, we spread ourselves thin and don’t do any of them well. We tend to do them mediocre. There is another verse that starts with, “This one thing I do.” Let me encourage you to follow your dream. But do not follow so many dreams that you get “dizzy” and don’t finish any of them well. I’ll be back in two weeks. Until then, live well my friend.
The Rev. Tony Marciano is available to speak to your group. DM him on Facebook.
Golden State Foods recognizes QCD Charlotte
PINEVILLE – Golden State Foods, a foodservice supplier, presented the 2024 Chairman’s Challenge Award to the Quality Custom Distribution Charlotte team.
The award recognizes the QCD Charlotte team’s results in the areas of people, safety, quality, customer support, financial results and community engagement.
“QCD Charlotte excelled in so many aspects of their 2024 performance, building on a Best in Class Award win last year and seizing every opportunity to soar to new heights together as one team,” said Brian Dick, president and CEO of Golden State Foods.
The team supported customers with lastmile distribution services; provided hurricane relief support; earned a fourth consecutive
annual National Safety Council Award; piloted new operational technology to reduce accidents; excelled in cost management; maintained the highest standards in quality audits conducted internally, externally and with customers; and inspired community involvement among associates.
“We talked about bringing home the Eagle for so long, and now it’s finally happening,” said Scott VanLue, general manager of QCD Charlotte. “Our associates have worked so hard day in and day out, in challenging weather conditions to service our customers, giving back to support our community and even delivered a baby while in the field! This Chairman’s Challenge Award is a great honor, and I’m so excited to share it with the team.”
make sure the company is following the stipulations detailed in your insurance policy.
• Suggest courses of action to take to resolve your problem if we do not have the authority to resolve it. That may include referring you to another government or consumer agency. Or we may recommend that you seek the advice of an attorney.
• Provide help with an appeal or external review through the department’s Smart NC Division if your health insurance company denies a procedure or medicine that your doctor believes is medically necessary. Our Smart NC Division can be reached at the same toll-free number.
Our consumer experts cannot:
• Act as your lawyer.
• Intervene in a pending lawsuit on your behalf.
• Consult with you if you are represented by an attorney unless your attorney gives us written permission.
• Decide who was negligent or at fault in an accident.
• Determine the value of a claim or the amount of money owed to you.
• Decide the facts surrounding a claim or establish who is telling the truth involving a claim.
• Address issues that are not subject to the state’s insurance laws or are governed by other state agencies.
• We try to respond promptly, clearly and courteously to your insurance questions and complaints.
Mike Causey serves as insurance commissioner of North Carolina.
Scott VanLue (middle), general manager of Quality Custom Distribution Charlotte, accepts the Chairman’s Challenge Award from Golden State Foods leaders Stephen Wetterau (left) and Brian Dick (right) in Southern California. Photo courtesy of Golden State Foods
