Author releases “Alien Dude!” for reluctant readers
Rivalry Week in the So. Meck 8 page 18
page 12
Photo courtesy of Scott Bokhoven
Volume 2, Issue 8 • October 2014
by Courtney Schultz news@pinevillepilot.com
Stephen United Methodist Church, wanted to help a local Title I school as a part of his Eagle Scout project, a community-based endeavor that’s mandatory to reach the rank of Eagle, the highest achievement in the Boy Scouts of America. Colin’s mother heard about outdoor classrooms at other schools, and the family’s neighbor, Beth (see Sterling Sanctuary on page 15)
(see Polk Site on page 11)
local scout builds outdoor classroom for elementary school children Sterling Elementary School has a brand-new outdoor classroom, thanks to a 17-year-old Boy Scout who wanted to help an area school on his way to becoming an Eagle Scout. Colin Bokhoven, a scout with Troop 118 from St.
Polk site preparing for reopening celebration The President James K. Polk Historic Site grand reopening celebration is still on track to occur on Nov. 15, a Saturday, despite a recent fire to one of the historic houses on the site. Fire trucks and ambulances were called to the site, located at 12031 Lancaster Hwy. in Pineville, on Oct. 9, after an early-1800s historic kitchen house caught fire from a cooking guild. Sara Walker, historic interpreter at the President James K. Polk State Historic Site, said she was walking her dog near the site at 6:30 p.m. on Oct. 9 and noticed the house was on fire. She then, in an attempted heroic act, broke into the house and tried to quench the fire with a fire extinguisher, but realized the fire was too large. She ultimately called 911, and the final damage to the house was limited to the roof and second floor of the building. “It’s still structurally sound,” Walker said. “However, because it’s historic, it takes more to get it up and running aging.” The staff has begun accessing artifacts in the house for needs and fire damage, but they’re taking it “a day at a time,” historic site manager Scott Warren said. They plan to have the items ready for field trips in the future, but a specific
Sanctuary for Sterling by Ryan Pitkin news@pinevillepilot.com
Locally Owned & Operated www.thecharlotteweekly.com
Town approves rezoning for sportsplex
Revised plans put councilmembers at ease
by Josh Whitener news@pinevillepilot.com
A revised amendment to the future Carolina Sportsplex off Dorman Road put the Pineville Town Council at ease last week,
after a rezoning request submitted in September caused angst for councilmembers. The council voted unanimously following a public hearing on Tuesday, Oct. 14, to approve a rezoning request from Carolina Sportsplex, LLC, with the primary purpose of incorporating adjacent
property to move the driveway of the sportsplex about 300 feet north, a requirement of the North Carolina Department of Transportation. One difference between the September proposal and this month’s approved plans concerns the quality of the driveway. The previous rezoning request stated
the driveway would be gravel; however, councilmembers balked at the idea and requested it be paved, which Carolina Sportsplex, LLC acquiesced to in the approved plans. “The driveway and two main parking lots have been resolved by being paved (see Sportsplex on page 11)
INDEX: News Briefs, 6; Crime Blotter, 7; Education, 12; Faith Notes, 16; Scores, Home Sales, 17; Sports, 18
Page 2 • October 2014 • Pineville Pilot
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News
Playing for a cure Residents to participate in tournament to benefit SMA by Courtney Schultz news@pinevillepilot.com
Area residents can express their competitive edge while benefiting children with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) at the third annual Rex Clark Memorial Tournament on Nov. 15, a Saturday. The event takes place at Jack D. Hughes Memorial Park, located at 513 Main St. Patrons can play flag football and kickball with an established team, or individuals can be placed on a team at the event. Winners will advance throughout the day to vie for trophies. The tournament also will feature food and baked goods for sale. The tournament celebrates the memory of James Avery "Rex" Clark, a baby boy who died of SMA at 6 months old in December 2012, and to benefit Cure SMA, a charity that provides help to families of SMA and SMA research. “Families of a child with SMA don’t have a whole lot of opportunity,” Alex Clark, Rex’s father, said. “It’s a death sentence. For a child to make it to 2 years old is amazing.” SMA is a disease that affects the motor nerve cells in the spinal cord, taking away the ability to walk, eat or breathe,
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and is the No. 1 genetic cause of death for infants, according to the Cure SMA website. Caring for a child with SMA is a 24/7 task, so Charlotte Clark ultimately had to quit her two jobs to care for Rex. Medical bills made life difficult for the Clark family, so family and friends launched the tournament to help raise money for the family. “They wanted to do something to help and thought flag football would be fun,” Alex Clark said. After Rex’s death, the family still wanted to commemorate his life, as well as raise money for the organization that helped them – Families of SMA, which was renamed Cure SMA. The family also started Rex’s Ride, a motorcycle ride that raises money for Cure SMA and commemorates Rex, as well. Alex enjoys motorcycles and wanted a way to honor his son’s memory. “Basically, it came through as his ride through life,” Alex Clark said. “It gives my wife and I some way to honor his memory. It’s a time for the family to get together and celebrate his life.” The Clark family, since Rex’s passing, has been asked to connect with parents of children with SMA. “I’d just like to give them a hug,” Alex
Baby Rex (above, center) was born with spinal muscular astrophy and lost his life to the disorder. His family honors him each year with Rex’s Ride memorial tournament. Photos courtesy of Rex’s Ride
said. “The disease is tough.” The cost to join the tournament is $7 per player and includes a hot dog and drink. Waivers will be signed at the event and, if players are younger than 18 years old, a parent will have to sign for them. All money will be collected at the event, and checks can be made to “Rex’s Ride.” Signups are from 8 to 9 a.m. and the games will begin shortly after. Find more information about the tournament and Rex’s Ride at www. rexsride.org.
Pineville Pilot • October 2014 • Page 3
News
Jumping into Pineville
The Charlotte CheckMates (above) and families (right) enjoy the grand opening of Sky Zone Charlotte. Photos courtesy of Brian Spicker by Ryan Pitkin news@pinevillepilot.com
A new business officially jumped into Pineville in September, as Sky Zone Charlotte Indoor Trampoline Park held its grand opening. Charlotte-area residents who attended the event hopped alongside Chick-fil-A cows, local firefighters and other personalities. The park has been open to visitors since Sept. 14, but the business’s official welcome to residents of Pineville and surrounding areas came on Sept. 27. Indoor trampoline parks are a growing trend around the country, with Sky Zone leading the way by leaps and bounds. There are expected to be 100 Sky Zone parks nationwide by the year’s end, with the closest competitor, Sky High Sports, currently at 17 parks. “We invented indoor trampolining,” said Brian Spicker, owner of Sky Zone Charlotte. Spicker decided to research the company after a friend suggested he buy a franchise in Atlanta, where he lived in 2012. He had been looking for a fun, interesting business opportunity since selling his share of a computer wholesale company he started in 1995. One flight to the corporate offices in Minneapolis had him convinced. “The fun fitness part of it really attracted me, “ Spicker said. “I think it’s important for everyone to exercise and get off the sofa, but in a healthy and fun environment. Sky Zone is family-friendly and a place that we can keep as safe as possible.” The parks are set up just as they sound– hundreds of trampolines under one roof, with separate rooms designed for different uses. Open jump rooms, separated by the size of the jumpers, give guests the ability to jump freely. There is a “Foam Zone” where guests can launch themselves into a pit of foam cubes and a “Sky Slam” where even the vertically challenged can get some serious air before dunking a basketball. Pickup games of ultimate dodgeball are often held if an open jump room is available, and Sky Zone Charlotte will host a tournament next fall in conjunction with other locations around the country. The winners will compete in a national tournament in Las Vegas, which will be televised on Fox Sports 1, similar to the film “Dodgeball.” Page 4 • October 2014 • Pineville Pilot
“It’s really exciting for us to see kids come in here and be active and have an amazing time doing it,” said Melanie Custer, operations manager at Sky Zone Charlotte. “To see kids leaving exhausted and sweaty but happy is great.” Bouncing uses every muscle and, if done regularly, can help tone the body. It can also be a great cardiovascular exercise for people of all ages. The core stability muscles most affected by bouncing can help enhance balance and boost metabolic rates. Bouncing has also shown positive benefits for children with autism and releases endorphins that improve the mental health of any bouncer. “Every single kid has run into their parents’ room, gotten onto the bed and started jumping,” Custer said. “Literally, when you say, ‘Jump for joy,’ this is what it’s about. It’s just fun.” Spicker approached Custer, a longtime friend with a background in fitness, about the new opportunity, and she didn’t hesitate. She had been with the YMCA of Greater Charlotte for seven years and was working in operations for the Dowd YMCA when she received the call. “It was an opportunity to go on a fun adventure with Brian, and I was excited to open something up and see it delivered to the community in such a positive way,” said Custer, a Pineville resident. The duo scoured job fairs and related events to recruit a team that would be excited about Sky Zone’s five core values – make it fun, keep it safe, be healthy, do good and deliver “wow.” Ray-Ray Davis, 23, is one of 89 current employees at Sky Zone Charlotte. He accepted the job after graduating from Emporia State University in Kansas with a degree in recreation. He said his favorite part of the job is interacting with kids and their parents, and he has already seen plenty of familiar faces from his days growing up in Indian Trail. “Technology has pretty much taken over everything these days, so this is a better environment for kids to have a good time,” Davis said. “It’s good for kids so they don’t have to stay at home playing video games.”
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News
Bocce ball courts coming to Lake Park Town approves Boy Scout’s plans without using staff hours for construction and maintenance. to bring bocce ball to Pineville by Josh Whitener news@pinevillepilot.com
Bocce ball enthusiasts in Pineville will soon have a new place to enjoy the game, thanks to a local prospective Eagle Scout. The Pineville Town Council voted unanimously at its Tuesday, Oct. 14, meeting to approve the addition of a bocce ball court to Pineville Lake Park. The project is the brainchild of local Boy Scout Michael Martin, a member of Pineville-based Boy Scout Troop 502, who gained the support of the Pineville Parks and Recreation Department staff when he approached them with the idea. “I’ve played (bocce ball) for as long as I can remember with my family at the beach,” Michael told councilmembers at the meeting regarding his interest in bringing the game to Pineville. Jennifer Honaker, Pineville Parks and Recreation athletic coordinator, detailed the reasons why a bocce ball court would benefit the town in a memo to the council. Honaker said the court would serve all ages and bring added value to the park, as well as allow the park to add amenities
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“The courts require minimal maintenance, therefore they will not bring any added work to staff,” Honaker said in the memo. Michael made a presentation to councilmembers at the meeting detailing his plans for the bocce ball court, a project that will serve as a prerequisite to earning the rank of Eagle – the highest merit a Boy Scout can achieve. The court will be a 76-foot-by-13foot area located near the Belle Johnson Community Center, between the existing picnic shelter and the nearby lake, according to the plans. Three separate layers – one each of gravel, pea gravel and oyster shells – will be included in the court. The project also will include a 32-square-foot brick sitting area and a handicap-accessible ramp. Michael estimated the entire project to cost approximately $3,100. He plans to seek donations of materials to use for the project, however, the town agreed to pay for any materials not donated. Construction on the bocce ball courts likely will begin in late October or early November, Pineville Parks and Recreation director Kristy Detwiler said.
Pineville Pilot • October 2014 • Page 5
News
The Pineville Pilot
News Briefs Pineville council meeting moved to Nov. 18 The Pineville Town Council’s next meeting will take place Nov. 18, the third Tuesday of the month, as opposed the council’s standard of meeting on the second Tuesday of the month. The decision was made because the second Tuesday in November is Veteran’s Day. The Nov. 18 meeting will take place at 6:30 p.m., the council’s normal meeting time. The meeting agenda can be obtained prior to the meeting by contacting town hall at 704-8892291. The meeting will take place at The Hut, located at 413 Johnston Drive.
Pineville amends town charter The Pineville Town Council voted unanimously at its Tuesday, Oct. 14, meeting to amend the town’s charter to reflect a councilmanager form of government as opposed to a council-mayor form of government. The change was discussed in August at a public hearing, during which town manager Haynes Brigman said the change was long overdue and better reflects the way Pineville currently operates – with a town manager in charge of the day-to-day operations of the town, rather than a mayor.
Town declares Oct. 18 ‘Kilah Davenport Day’ Leaders in Pineville recently approved a proclamation declaring Oct. 18 “Kilah Davenport Day.” The Pineville Town Council voted unanimously to approve the proclamation, named for Kilah Davenport, a local girl whose stepfather allegedly physically abused her in May 2012, causing debilitating damage. Kilah was 3 years old and living in Indian Trail when the alleged abuse took place. Kilah died earlier this year after nearly two years of recovering from her injuries and just weeks before her 5th birthday. Her stepfather, Joshua Houser, who was previously tried and convicted of felony child abuse and sentenced to seven to 10 years, now faces a second-
degree murder charge after Union County returned a True Bill of Indictment against him last month. The new charge results from information obtained from the North Carolina medical examiner’s office and investigators from Union and Cabarrus counties’ sheriff’s offices, according to a news release. The information gave Union County District Attorney Trey Robison probable cause to charge Houser with second-degree murder in the death of Kilah.
Federal drug monies to fund police equipment Leaders in Pineville recently voted to approve using funds from federal drug monies to purchase equipment for the Pineville Police Department. The Pineville Town Council voted unanimously at its Tuesday, Oct. 14, meeting to appropriate restricted funds received from federal drug monies to the police department’s Special Operations – Restricted account. The funds will be used to purchase the following: 20 patrol rifles ($17,423); three remote mount mobiles, including software and accessories ($12,793); 12 body cameras for police officers ($10,033); S.W.A.T. equipment ($6,014); and Tasers and supporting equipment ($2,466).
Oral surgeon launches online video resources for patients Oral and maxillofacial surgeon Dr. Amir Marashi recently launched a new online resource in an effort to relay information to patients more effectively. Marashi, of Greater Charlotte Oral and Facial Surgery, which has offices in Pineville and the Steele Creek area, and his staff recently designed a program to help patients better receive critical information via shortformat interactive videos. Studies show 80 percent of patients will watch a video, while only 20 percent will read written content in its entirety, according to a news release. “It’s incredibly important to us that patients are well informed, and heal quickly and properly, so we want to provide them with everything they need to know – from the moment they schedule their consultation to the time they are recovering at home,” Marashi said in the release. Online resources also includes patient testimonial videos in which previous Greater
Charlotte Oral and Facial Surgery patients describe their experience, with the goal of putting patients more at ease about their surgery, the release said. Greater Charlotte Oral and Facial Surgery provides a variety of services and procedures including wisdom tooth removal, general tooth extraction, bone grafting procedures, dental implant placement, treatment for Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders, corrective jaw surgery and more. Find more information at www.greatercharlotteoralsurgery.com. Marashi’s Pineville office is located at 10035 Park Cedar Drive, suite 300.
Golf Invitational raises $70k for cancer patient care Area cancer patients will have access to more support, thanks to Carolinas Medical Center – Pineville’s recent Golf Invitational. The tournament, held Sept. 15, raised approximately $70,000, according to a news release. This is the sixth year of the tournament, which has raised more than $350,000 since its inception, the release said. “The tournament is always fun, but the most rewarding thing is knowing our patients at Carolinas Medical Center – Pineville will benefit from the money we raise,” CMCPineville President Chris Hummer said in the release. This year’s funds will support the work of CMC-Pineville’s cancer patient navigator, who partners with patients, along with their families and caregivers, to provide necessary information and resources throughout their “cancer journey,” according to the release.
Halloween event coming to Lake Park Pineville Parks and Recreation will host the second annual Halloween Trick-or-Treat – Loot the Lake event on Oct. 31, a Friday, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Pineville Lake Park. This trick-or-treating event is for adults and kids, and people are encouraged to come dressed in costume for a 7 p.m. costume contest with awards. Local businesses will be on site, handing out coupons and candy at the event. Call 704-889-2400 for more information. Pineville Lake Park is located at 1000 Johnston Drive.
EDITORIAL The Pineville Pilot Editor Josh Whitener Carolina Weekly Managing and Sports Editor Andrew Stark Asst. Sports Editor
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The Pineville Pilot
Parkway: Shoplifting. Sept. 25
money. Sept. 26
Place Parkway: Shoplifting. Oct. 4
• Sandra Elizabeth Andrade, 11000 block of Carolina
• Ivan Javier Alvarez, 12600 block of Downs Road: Pos-
• Paul Kristoffer Robinson, 11000 block of Carolina
Place Parkway: Shoplifting. Sept. 25
session of marijuana. Sept. 26
Place Parkway: Possession of marijuana; possession of drug
• Corey Christopher Courtright, 11100 block of
• Paul Eric Winters Jr., 11000 block of Carolina Place
paraphernalia; concealing. Oct. 4
Carolina Place Parkway: Possession of drug paraphernalia.
Parkway: Shoplifting. Sept. 27
• Andres Felipe Vazquez, 12700 block of Dorman Road:
Sept. 25
• Caleb Denton Barnhill, 11000 block of Carolina Place
Trafficking heroin; possession of marijuana; possession of
• Lucas Brandon Wenger, 10600 block of Centrum
Parkway: Shoplifting. Sept. 27
drug paraphernalia. Oct. 5
Parkway: Possession of marijuana; possession of drug para-
• Migdalia Beuon, 9400 block of Pineville-Matthews
• Ashley Majesky, Dorman Road: Driving while impaired.
• Brittany Nicole Godfrey, 8300 block of Pineville-
phernalia. Sept. 26
Road: Warrant. Sept. 30
Oct. 5
Matthews Road: Possession with intent to distribute of
• William Shawn Bieber, 8800 block of Pineville-
• Michael LaFalaise, rear of McMullen Creek Shopping
• Harvey Mitchell Moore, 500 block of Amon Lane:
marijuana. Sept. 9
Matthews Road: Driving while impaired; aggressive driving.
Center: Larceny; damage to personal property; resisting,
Assault on a female; assault by strangulation; interference
• Katravious Rahad Howell, 8300 block of Pineville-
Sept. 26
obstructing, delaying officer. Oct. 1
with 911 call. Oct. 5
Matthews Road: Possession with intent to distribute of
• Laura Jean Smith, 10300 Park Road: Consuming
• Justice Amir Omega Tilfored, 10500 block of Cen-
• Lawrence Ronald Burns, 400 block of Main Street:
marijuana; felony possession of marijuana; possession of
alcoholic beverage on public street; urinating in public;
trum Parkway: Shoplifting. Oct. 4
Parole and probation violations. Oct. 5
drug paraphernalia. Sept. 10
proof of fare payment; two counts of soliciting/begging for
• Taniesha Tynesha Lane, 11000 block of Carolina
• Fabio Jose Monagas, Carolina Place Parkway: Driving (see Crime Blotter on page 8)
Crime Blotter The Pineville Police Department made the following arrests between Sept. 8 and Oct. 12:
• Taylor Dalton Hord, 8300 block of Pineville-Matthews Road: Possession of drug paraphernalia. Sept. 10 • Daniel Allen Griffis, 9800 block of Pineville-Matthews Road: Defrauding a taxi driver. Sept. 10 • Davis Brightman Marsh, 11000 block of Carolina Place Parkway: Unlawful concealment. Sept. 10 • Scott Boyd Pannell, 10600 Block of Park Road by Cook-Out: Driving while impaired. Sept. 11 • Brytnee Nicole Downs, 8500 block of Pineville-Matthews Road: Driving while license revoked; no insurance, fictitious registration. Sept. 11 • Bernard Lahune Davis, 11000 block of Carolina Place Parkway: Shoplifting. Sept. 11 • Landen Jarrett Barnes, 100 block of Reid Lane: Possession of stolen goods. Sept. 12 • Christina Nguyen Le, 11000 block of Carolina Place Parkway: Shoplifting. Sept. 12 • Jason Brown, 8700 block of Pineville-Matthews Road: Possession of marijuana. Sept. 14 • Delarrian Stewart Clyburn, 1500 block of Clarence E. Coker Highway: Robbery with a dangerous weapon. Sept. 15 • Mason Lee Heubsch, 11000 block of Carolina Place Parkway: Shoplifting. Sept. 15 • Mark Alan Milne, 10600 block of McMullen Creek Parkway: Possessing stolen goods. Sept. 18 • Jacquelyn Nicole Arrington, 105000 block of Kettering Drive: Drug violations; possession of marijuana. Sept. 16 • Imay Katiri Norris, 11000 block of Carolina Place Parkway: Shoplifting. Sept. 18 • Valeria Sipf, 11000 block of Carolina Place Parkway: Escape from custody; resisting arrest. Sept. 18 • Ralph Richard Silva, 10600 block of Park Road: Warrant. Sept. 19 • Mary Elizabeth McGhee, 15000 block of Country Lake Drive: Violation of domestic violence protective order. Sept. 20 • Conrad Christopher Morfin, Drug violations. Sept. 20 • Rayshawn Marquis Jackson, 11000 block of Carolina Place Parkway: Warrant: disorderly conduct. Sept. 20 • A’Rud Khazun Dobson, 10600 block of Park Road: Warrant. Sept. 20 • Lacey Jean Westberry, 10900 block of Park Road: Possession of heroin; possession of cocaine; possession of drug paraphernalia. Sept. 22 • John Bernard Hale III, Morrow Avenue: No operator’s license; possession of drug paraphernalia. Sept. 22 • Audria Marlina Dickerson, 11000 block of Carolina Place Parkway: Shoplifting. Sept. 24 • Mae Shenese Poindexter, 10900 block of Carmel Crossing Road: Failure to return hired property. Sept. 24 • Ronnie Lee Metts, 200 block of Towne Center Boulevard: Possession with intent to distribute marijuana. Sept. 25 • William Dylan McClure, 11000 block of Carolina Place Parkway: Shoplifting. Sept. 25 • Ashley Desirae Keasler, 11000 block of Carolina Place
news@pinevillepilot.com
Pineville Pilot • October 2014 • Page 7
News
Crime Blotter
• Bailey’s Tavern, 8500 Pineville-Matthews
• 12000 block of Downs Road: Breaking and
• 11000 block of Oakbrook Drive: Damage to
Fraud
(continued from page 7)
Road: Driving while impaired. Oct. 6
entering auto. Sept. 15
personal property. Sept. 29
• 9800 block of Pineville-Matthews Road:
• Intersection of Park and Pineville-Matthews
• 12000 block of Downs Road: Breaking and
• 10000 block of Oakbrook Drive: Damage to
Defrauding a taxi driver. Sept. 10
while impaired. Oct. 6
roads: Driving while impaired; driving while
entering auto. Sept. 15
personal property. Sept. 29
• 1100 block of Carolina Place Parkway:
• Joshua James Goff, 1100 block of Caro-
license revoked; fictitious tag; resisting,
• 400 block of Towne Center Boulevard:
• 10000 block of Oakbrook Drive: Damage to
Credit card fraud. Sept. 11
lina Place Parkway: Driving while impaired;
obstructing, delaying arrest. Oct. 6
Breaking and entering auto. Sept. 15
personal property. Sept. 29
• Kay Jewelers, 11025 Carolina Place Pkwy.:
driving while license revoked; fictitious tag;
• Intersection of Park Cedar Drive and Pinev-
• 10600 block of Industrial Drive: Breaking
• 10000 block of Oakbrook Drive: Damage to
Obtaining property by false pretense. Sept. 15
resisting, obstructing, delaying arrest. Oct. 6
ille-Matthews Road: Drug possession; posses-
and entering auto. Sept. 15
personal property. Sept. 29
• 11300 block of Carolina Place Parkway:
• Juana Antonio-Lopez, 11000 block of
sion of drug paraphernalia; concealing. Oct. 8
• 400 block of Towne Center Boulevard:
• 9000 block of Oakbrook Drive: Damage to
Fraud. Sept. 15
Carolina Place Parkway: Shoplifting. Oct. 7
• 8300 block of Pineville-Matthews Road: Pos-
Breaking and entering auto. Sept. 15
personal property. Sept. 29
• 1100 block of Carolina Place Parkway:
• Brian Corey Lassiter, 8400 block of
session of schedule VI drug. Oct. 12
• 10600 block of Industrial Drive: Breaking
• 8300 block of Pineville-Matthews Road:
Obtaining property by false pretense. Sept. 15
and entering auto. Sept. 15
Damage to real property. Sept. 29
• 1100 block of Carolina Place Parkway:
Pineville-Matthews Road: Possession of drug paraphernalia; possession/concealing. Oct. 8
Home/Business Break-Ins
• 400 block of Towne Center Boulevard:
• 10500 block of McMullen Creek Parkway:
Obtaining property by false pretense. Sept. 15
• Daeshawn Marquise Kirby, 11000 block
• 11000 block of Carolina Place Parkway:
Breaking and entering auto. Sept. 15
Damage to real property. Sept. 30
• 11000 block of Carolina Place Parkway:
of Carolina Place Parkway: Shoplifting; pos-
Larceny from building. Sept. 8
• 15300 block of Country Lake Drive: Break-
• 11500 block of Nations Ford Road: Damage
Fraud. Sept. 17
session of drug paraphernalia; possession,
• 500 block of North Polk Street: Forcible
ing and entering auto. Sept. 20
to real property. Oct. 1
• 11800 block of Carolina Blossom Lane:
concealing. Oct. 8
commercial burglary. Sept. 17
• Brandau Roofing, 15329 Country Lake
• 12700 block of Lancaster Highway: Damage
Wire/computer fraud. Sept. 22
• Nicholas Devita, 10700 block of Kettering
• 200 block of Eden Circle: Non-forcible
Drive: Larceny from vehicle. Sept. 20
to real property. Oct. 3
• 10000 block of Lee Street: Counterfeit cur-
Drive: Possession of stolen property. Oct. 9
burglary. Sept. 19
• 9800 block of Pineville-Matthews Road:
• 8400 block of Habersham Pointe Circle:
rency. Sept. 22
• Tracy Jean Boyd, Pineville-Matthews
• 1200 block of Lancaster Highway: Non-
Larceny from vehicle. Sept. 20
Real damage to property. Oct. 7
• Intersection of North Polk and College
Road: Driving while impaired. Oct. 10
forcible burglary. Sept. 19
• 9800 block of Pinevile-Matthews Road:
• 12600 block of Sabal Park Drive: Real dam-
streets: Hit and run; no operator’s license.
• Melghem David Suazo-Montufar, 11000
• 300 block of Park Road: Forcible commercial
Breaking and entering auto. Sept. 20
age to property. Oct. 10
Sept. 22
block of Carolina Place Parkway: Larceny,
burglary. Sept. 26
• 12900 block of Pinewell Drive: Larceny from
• 12900 block of Pinewell Drive: Real damage
• 800 block of Traditions Park Dive: Identity
aid and abet; resisting, delaying, obstructing
• 10700 block of Park Road: Forcible commer-
vehicle. Sept. 20
to property. Oct.10
theft. Sept. 26
arrest. Oct. 10
cial burglary. Sept. 26
• 8300 block of Pineville-Matthews Road:
• 12700 block of Windy Pines Way: Real dam-
• 300 block of South Polk Street: Fraud.
• Jianqui Li, 9500 block of Pineville-
• 300 block of North Polk Street: Forcible
Larceny from vehicle. Sept. 20
age to property. Oct. 10
Sept. 26
Matthews Road: Child abuse (non-abusive).
commercial burglary. Sept. 26
• 10700 block of Park Road: Larceny from
• Goodwill, 10118 Johnston Road: Real dam-
• 10500 block of Centrum Parkway: Imper-
Oct. 10
• 500 block of North Polk Street: Forcible
vehicle. Sept. 20
age to property. Oct. 11
sonation. Sept. 29
• Noah Matthew Lang, 11000 block of
commercial burglary. Sept. 26
• 600 block of North Polk Street: Larceny
Carolina Place Parkway: Larceny. Oct. 11
• 8700 block of Pineville-Matthews Road:
from vehicle. Sept. 27
Larceny
Impersonation. Sept. 29
• Darrin Lamont Smith, 11000 block of
Forcible commercial burglary. Sept. 26
• 10000 block of Plum Creek Lane: Burglary,
• 8400 block of Habersham Pointe Circle:
• 12500 block of Druids Glen Drive: Identity
Carolina Place Parkway: Disorderly conduct.
• 9900 block of Park Cedar Drive: Larceny
non forcible entry. Sept. 29
Larceny of a golf cart. Sept. 8
theft. Sept. 30
Oct. 11
from buildings. Sept. 26
• 9400 block of Pineville-Matthews Road:
• Firestone, 10731 Park Road: Larceny. Sept.
• 10600 block of McMullen Creek Parkway:
• Miles Alexander Pierre Bynum II, 8300
• 10200 block of Feldfarm Lane: Burglary.
Larceny from motor vehicle. Sept. 29
9
Fraud. Oct. 3
block of Pineville-Matthews Road: Simple
Sept. 26
• 10100 block of Park Road: Felony larceny
• Regency Retirement, 9449 Willow Ridge
• Lowe’s, 10635 McMullen Creek Pkwy.:
possession of marijuana. Oct. 12
• 9700 block of Lee Street: Larceny from
from vehicle. Sept. 29
Road: Felony larceny. Sept. 10
Obtaining property by false pretense. Oct. 5
building. Sept.27
• 8300 block of Pineville-Matthews Road:
• 9100 block of Pineville-Matthews Road:
• 11000 block of Carolina Place Parkway:
• Jerry Rhyne’s Collision, 12629 Downs Road:
Larceny from vehicle. Oct. 3
Larceny. Sept. 10
Obtaining property by false pretense. Oct. 5
Forcible commercial burglary. Sept. 28
• 10000 block of Plum Creek Lane: Larceny
• 10900 block of Carolina Place Parkway:
• 11300 block of Carolina Place Parkway:
• Norris Trucking, 12611 Downs Road: Lar-
from vehicle. Oct. 3
Larceny. Sept. 12
Obtaining property by false pretense. Oct. 5
ceny from vehicle. Sept. 28
• 100 block of South Polk Street: Motor
• 9400 block of Pineville-Matthews Road:
• 300 block of South Polk Street: Wire/com-
Alcohol/Drugs
• Norris Trucking, 12611 Downs Road: Lar-
vehicle theft. Oct. 3
Larceny. Sept. 12
puter fraud. Oct. 7
• 300 block of Oakley St.: Possession of sched-
ceny from vehicle. Sept. 28
• 9400 block of Pineville-Matthews Road:
• 10700 block of Industrial Drive: Felony
• 11000 block of Carolina Place Parkway:
ule VI drug. Sept. 8
• Cypress Xpress Carrier, 12611 Downs Road:
Motor vehicle theft. Oct. 4
larceny. Sept. 15
Obtaining property by false pretense. Oct. 7
• 8300 block of Pineville-Matthews Road:
Larceny from vehicle. Sept. 28
• 10300 block of Plum Creek Lane: Larceny
• 10600 block of McMullen Creek Parkway:
• 10000 block of Pineville-Matthews Road:
Possession of marijuana; possession of drug
• Norris Trucking, 12611 Downs Road: Lar-
from vehicle. Oct. 5
Larceny. Sept. 16
Credit card fraud. Oct. 9
paraphernalia. Sept. 10
ceny from vehicle. Sept. 28
• 10600 block of Centrum Parkway: Larceny
• 400 block of North Polk Street: Larceny.
• 11000 block of Carolina Place Parkway:
• 1800 block of Sam Meeks Road: Drug
• 10400 block of Park Road: Larceny from
from vehicle. Oct. 5
Sept.16
Obtaining property by false pretense. Oct. 9
violations; possession of drug paraphernalia.
vehicle. Sept. 28
• 300 block of Pineville Forest Drive: Larceny
• Kevin Powell Motorsports, 502 North Polk
Sept. 11
• 8300 block of McMullen Creek Parkway:
from vehicle. Oct. 7
Street: Motor vehicle theft. Sept. 20
Assault
• 8700 block of Pineville-Matthews Road:
Forcible commercial burglary. Sept. 28
• 11400 block of Carolina Place Parkway:
• 11000 block of Carolina Place Parkway:
• 600 block of Eagleton Downs Drive: Simple
Possession of marijuana. Sept. 14
• 12600 block of Sabal Park Drive: Burglary.
Larceny from vehicle. Oct. 8
Felony larceny. Sept. 22
physical assault. Sept. 10
• 10500 block of Kettering Drive: Possession
Sept. 30
• 10400 block of Cadillac Street: Larceny
• 11000 block of Carolina Place Parkway:
• 100 block of Reid Road: Assault on a female.
of marijuana; possession of fortified wine/
• 9400 block of Willow Ridge Road: Felony
from vehicle. Oct. 8
Larceny. Sept. 28
Sept. 25
liquor younger than 21 years old; possession of
larceny; burglary. Oct. 11
• CiCi’s Pizza, 11025 Carolina Place Pkwy.:
• 10600 block of Park Road: Simple physical
Vandalism
Larceny by employee. Sept. 30
assault. Sept. 27
The Pineville Police Department reported the following incidents between Sept. 8 and Oct. 12:
drug paraphernalia. Sept. 16
• 11000 block of Carolina Place Parkway:
• 15300 block of Country Lake Drive: Drug
Vehicle Break-Ins
• 12400 block of Sratfield Place Circle: Dam-
• 10100 block of Johnston Road: Larceny.
• 900 block of Hill Street: Simple physical
violations. Sept. 20
• 400 block of Towne Center Boulevard: Lar-
age to real property. Sept. 11
Oct. 1
assault. Sept. 30
• 12600 block of Sabal Park Drive: Drug viola-
ceny from vehicle. Sept. 10
• 8300 block of Pineville-Matthews Road:
• 10100 block of Johnston Road: Larceny.
• 100 block of College Street: Assault. Oct. 1
tions. Sept. 21
• 400 block of Towne Center Boulevard:
Damage to real property. Sept. 12
Oct. 1
• 10900 block of Carolina Place Parkway:
• 10900 block of Park Road: Possession of
Larceny from vehicle; motor vehicle theft.
• 12900 block of Pinewell Drive: Damage to
• 12600 block of Pine Acres Avenue: Larceny.
Assault on a female. Oct. 4
heroin; possession of cocaine. Sept. 22
Sept. 10
real property. Sept. 14
Oct. 2
• 500 block of Amon Lane: Assault on a
• 600 block of Eagleton Drive: Possession with
• 10400 block of Centre Boulevard: Larceny
• 300 block of South Polk Street: Damage to
• 11000 block of Carolina Place Parkway:
female. Oct. 5
intent to distribute marijuana. Sept. 23
from vehicle. Sept. 10
real property. Sept. 22
Cellphone stolen. Oct. 4
• 9100 block of Pineville-Matthews Road:
• 200 block of Towne Center Drive: Possession
• 10400 block of Centre Boulevard: Larceny
• Pineville-Matthews Road near Park Road:
• 12500 block of Sabal Park Drive: Armed
Simple physical assault. Oct. 5
with intent to distribute marijuana. Sept. 25
from vehicle. Sept. 10
Damage to real property. Sept. 22
robbery. Oct. 6
• 12600 block of Sabal Park Drive: Assault on
• 12600 block of Downs Road: Possession of
• 8300 block of Pineville-Matthews Road:
• 12100 block of Monkstown Drive: Damage
• 10700 block of Park Road: Felony larceny.
a female. Oct. 8
marijuana. Sept. 26
Larceny from motor vehicles. Sept. 12
to real property. Sept. 24
Oct. 6
• 10200 block of Willow Run Road: Assault on
• 11000 block of Carolina Place Parkway: Pos-
• 12800 block of Meadow Creek Lane: Break-
• Lazy Boy Furniture, 11515 Carolina Place
• 10400 block of Centrum Parkway: Larceny.
a female. Oct. 8
session of marijuana. Oct. 5
ing and entering vehicle. Sept. 14
Pkwy.: Damage to property. Sept. 29
Sept. 7
• 8800 block of Pineville-Matthews Road:
• 12700 block of Dorman Road: Trafficking
• 12000 block of Downs Road: Breaking and
• 10000 block of Oakbrook Drive: Damage to
• 100 block of Olive Street: Larceny. Oct. 9
Simple physical assault. Oct. 12
heroin. Oct. 5
entering auto. Sept. 15
personal property. Sept. 29
Page 8 • October 2014 • Pineville Pilot
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Pineville Pilot • October 2014 • Page 9
News
Residents to learn about breast health, individualized care by Courtney Schultz news@pinevillepilot.com
Area residents will have the opportunity to receive answers to their concerns about breast health at a health talk at Carolinas HealthCare System’s Carolinas Medical Center – Pineville. CMC-Pineville will hold “Current Trends in Breast Cancer” on Thursday, Oct.23, at 6 p.m. Dr. Terry Sarantou, of the Levine Cancer Institute, will present about breast cancer and treatment options, as well as discuss misconceptions about breast screenings. “It’s a community seminar to hear about breast cancer,” said Sarantou. He will discuss the timeline of treatment options for breast cancer patients, including surgeries, radiation, chemotherapy and more. The future of breast cancer treatment involves more patient-centered care, Sarantou added. The treatments will target individual patients rather than treating every patient with the same method. Jennifer Brown, patient navigator at CMC-Pineville, helps to carry out individualized patient care. She meets patients at the time of their consultation with the breast surgeon and acts as a guide for treatment and
Page 10 • October 2014 • Pineville Pilot
information. “I also identify their barriers – financial difficulties, transportation, caring for others at home, no health insurance or if they just lost their job. I help fund them and point them in the right direction,” Brown said. Brown serves as a single point of contact so patients can receive individualized care, such as yoga and art therapy or simply connecting with someone who has had breast cancer. “They know that there is at least one person you can always call,” Brown said. “I’m a good single point to bring it all together.” CMC-Pineville conducted an internal survey to determine patient navigator feedback and concluded 85 percent of patients with a navigator said their outcome was better with a navigator, according to Brown. “They tell me, ‘It’s nice that you’re always there.’ It’s an extra comfort,” Brown said, adding the individualized care for patients, such as those with breast cancer, comes from the integrative medical staff. Even with personalized care, some women still have misconceptions about breast health, Sarantou said. “Women sometimes perceive that their risk of breast cancer is higher
than it really is,” he said. There also is confusion regarding when a woman should obtain a mammogram. Some believe women should receive them when they are 40 years old, and others claim a woman can wait until she is 50 years old. Sarantou said he’s familiar with the controversy but still recommends women begin self-examinations when they turn 30 years old and begin obtaining mammographic screenings at 40 years old. “A mammogram doesn’t protect someone from breast cancer but just gives the diagnosis,” he said, adding mammograms can save lives because they can detect cancer at an early stage, which makes treatment more manageable. The tests can cause anxiety and have a cost, but they are recommended, Sarantou added. The doctor hopes women will attend the health talk to gain a better understanding of breast health and ways to detect cancer early. Call 704-667-6509 or go to w w w. c a r o l i n a s h e a l t h c a r e . o r g / healthtalkssouth to register for the talk. Photo of Dr. Terry Sarantou provided by Carolinas HealthCare System
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News
(Left) A house at the James K. Polk Historic Site did not suffer structural damage during an Oct. 9 fire. (Above) The Polk Site will renovate the welcome center’s entrances as part of a plan to create a more presidential feel. Courtney Scultz/Pilot photo
Polk Site (continued from page 1)
plan has not yet been put in place. The site’s welcome center was already under construction to help modernize the facility. The new renovations are intended to bring a “more presidential feel” to create “a place befitting of a presidential birthplace and something Pineville could be proud of,” said Walker. The two-month project will include numerous new updates, including new track lighting, extended storefronts and new doors at entryways. Restrooms also will be up to ADA standard, and faux columns and millwork will be done to reflect the presidential feel. The site wants the grand opening celebration to be Pineville-oriented and encourage the community to come
Sportsplex (continued from page 1)
and curbed …” Pineville planning director and zoning administrator Travis Morgan said in a memo to the council. Plans also include a guardrail and landscaping to prevent visitors from using the driveway as overflow parking, and the driveway plans were amended to include three turn lanes entering and leaving the sportsplex. Parking also was a concern for some councilmembers, including David Phillips, who was concerned about sportsplex visitors using Dorman Road for overflow parking. “There’s not going to be any parking on Dorman Road,” Phillips said. “So if you have a big tournament and people come in, unfortunately you’re going to have to turn them away or send them somewhere else because if they’re parking on the road there, they’re going to get a citation.” Dan Saltrick, who spoke on behalf of Carolina Sportsplex, LLC, assured the council overflow parking would not be a problem, as visitors would be required to obtain parking passes. “The Charlotte Soccer Academy is choosing now … (to issue) parking passes for tournaments as part of their news@pinevillepilot.com
together, Walker said. The celebration will feature an oral history project from the original site manager from the 1960s, dancing, food, singing and children will be able to shuck corn. The new exhibits will feature the “site through time” and show the changes made from when the site opened in 1968. Walker hopes to get the community more involved in the site, especially after the site almost closed this past spring due to budget cuts. “It’s a small community,” Walker said. “(The site) is a big part of the community’s history and to have a president born here is something many towns don’t have.” The grand opening will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Nov. 15 and is a free event. Visit www.presjkpolk.com for more information about the site.
tournament package,” Saltrick said. “So, families (from out of town) are used to that, and they know that when they leave their hotel” they will need those passes to park at the site. Plans for the Carolina Sportsplex include six soccer fields and 484 on-site paved parking spaces, with a ratio of 81 parking spaces per field. The number of parking spaces exceeds the requirements of the Pineville zoning ordinance, which calls for a total of 438 spaces. Plans also call for approximately 40 overflow parking spaces on site and an additional 30 overflow parking spaces at the nearby Abundant Hope Church. Saltrick said Carolina Sportsplex, LLC has entered into a written agreement with Abundant Hope to utilize a portion of the church’s parking area as overflow parking during crowded events and tournaments. The council also required Carolina Sportsplex, LLC, to install a 50-foot undisturbed landscape buffer and an evergreen screening hedge at least 6 feet tall along the border of any sportsplex property that directly borders adjacent residential development. More information about the plans for Carolina Sportsplex can be obtained by contacting town hall at 704-889-2291. Pineville Pilot • October 2014 • Page 11
Education
Alien Dude making a home with readers Author offering boys “enjoyable” reading through new book series
by Josh Whitener news@pinevillepilot.com
There’s a new, unlikely hero for young boys who are struggling or reluctant readers. The “Alien Dude!” book series debuted earlier this year and recently released its second book, “Alien Dude! Mr. Evil Potato Man and the Food Fight.” The author, Beth Smith, will make an appearance this weekend at a local author event and book signing at the Barnes & Noble at Carolina Place Mall. The event Beth Smith takes place Saturday, Oct. 25, at 3 p.m. at the 11025 Carolina Place Pkwy. store. Smith spent 10 years as an elementary school teacher and was fed up with the lack of books for early elementary-aged boys who were struggling with reading or having difficulty enjoying reading.
Page 12 • October 2014 • Pineville Pilot
“Most of the books written at beginner levels were written for girls,” she said. “I also have a son, Lake, … who was a very reluctant reader. Reluctant readers just don’t want to read, and the struggling reader usually is also a reluctant reader.” As she scoured the libraries, bookstores and online catalogs searching for books for Lake, Smith found very little. She decided if no one else was writing the books, she needed to do it herself. Smith quit teaching about three-and-a-half years ago and started writing a book geared toward boys 6 to 8 years old, especially those who were struggling or reluctant readers. Lake, now in high school, served as an “advisor” throughout the process, helping his mom choose the book titles, the title character’s name and more. “After I wrote the story for the first one, I went to my son, and he wasn’t thrilled about it,” Smith said. The first book in the series, “Alien Dude! and the Attack of Wormzilla,” originally ended with Alien Dude fighting off evil worms by singing and dancing, but Lake
didn’t approve of the ending and offered an alternate twist. “He told me when Alien Dude gets the worms out of the school, he should fart and burp,” Smith said. “I’m still getting comfortable saying that word (fart) out loud; I make sure people know it’s not my idea.” Smith began attending workshops about three years ago to learn how to publish stories and was told no company would publish an easy-reader book by a new author. She decided to pursue self-publishing, but was told there would be a negative connotation with a self-published book, so she adopted “E.K. Smith” as her pen name. To further professionalize the book, Smith’s husband, Michael, chose to start his own publishing company, Zip Line Publishing. “At this point, it’s just a small, two-person company,” Michael Smith said. “A lot of what I’ve done is just traveling, learning about the industry, studying, getting the first book out and getting it into bookstores … I’ve basically just learned by doing.” Beth Smith teamed up with Arizona artist Peter Grosshauser, who provided
illustrations for the book, and the first book in the “Alien Dude!” series was published in January after three long years. She’s received positive feedback from reviewers and readers since the book’s publication, and Zip Line Publishing released the second book in the series, “Alien Dude! Mr. Evil Potato Man and the Food Fight,” last month. The books are currently being sold in the Charlotte area at Park Road Books, multiple Barnes & Noble stores and area book fairs, as well as places in Hickory, Raleigh, Florida, California, Colorado and Greenville, South Carolina. The series also is available online at BarnesAndNoble.com and Amazon.com, as well as “random places” in the United Kingdom, Smith said. The Smiths are participating in a number of book signings to promote the series and are currently seeking a distributor that will help place the books in more stores across the U.S. Beth Smith’s goals are to write a complete set of 10 books, along with accompanying lesson plan books and sticker books. “We want boys to pick (the books) out on their own for independent reading,” she said. “These books are made to be enjoyable for kids who want a book they can sit down and read on their own without having to ask what the words are.” Find more information at www. zipintoreading.com.
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Pineville Pilot • October 2014 • Page 13
Education
News writer Ryan pitkin stopped by sterling elementary to ask a few students the question of the month:
Raphael A vampire!
A Power Ranger!
Page 14 • October 2014 • Pineville Pilot
TMNT!
Mya Mongo gabriel salazar
The Hulk!
from
carlos marquez
Johnathan ramirez
what are you going to be for halloween?
Flash Gordon! khalil robinson
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Education
Eagle scout troop 118’s Colin Bokhoven built a brand-new outdoor classroom at Sterling Elementary School. Ryan Pitkin/Pilot photo
Sterling Sanctuary (continued from page 1)
Wardy, previously served as principal at Sterling Elementary. The plan came to fruition over the course of a year, as Colin and his father, Scott, worked to gain approval from Mecklenburg County officials and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. Once Colin’s project was approved, he needed supplies, and lots of them. Colin began reaching out to area companies, one of them Home Depot in Pineville, a store that often sponsors Sterling Elementary. The store contributed between $700 and $900 of pressure-treated wood. Charlotte-based construction material company, Blue Max, who donates to many area Eagle Scout projects, contributed the gravel needed for the classroom. The wood donation was much larger than usual for Home Depot, which is only allocated a limited amount of money for charitable projects for every month. Store manager Dave Wilkinson saved up charitable funds for three months in order to provide Colin with everything he needed. “Sterling is our adopted school, and that’s what interested me so much about this project,” Wilkinson said. “We don’t usually give out as much as we gave him, but we did that because it was Sterling.” Wilkinson also was impressed with Colin’s drive to carry out the project. He looked forward to seeing the project finished because he and a team of workers had, in the previous year, cleared the overgrown area where Colin wanted to construct the classroom. It was one of a couple ways Wilkinson could relate to the teenager’s work ethic. “I said, ‘I know that spot because I spent a few hours clearing bushes there last year, and it was tough,’” news@pinevillepilot.com
Wilkinson said. “I was also a scout once too. I know that becoming Eagle Scout is quite a feat. It’s not easy. But once he got approval from the right places, he got that project knocked out pretty quick. He did what he needed to.” Colin spent the entire summer working alongside fellow scouts, friends and family readying the area for construction. He then installed the wood, gravel, benches, flowerbeds and other amenities for the children’s enjoyment. “It became tough at times. It was really hot. We spent one of the hottest days pulling rebar out of the ground and then putting 46 pieces in,” Colin said. Residents of nearby communities constantly inspired him, he said. As they passed by him on the trail that leads to the local light rail stop, the school’s neighbors constantly complimented him on his progress and told him how great the area looked. The outdoor classroom was ready by Sept. 29. Blue benches, birdfeeders and a brick pathway now adorn the area where a rotted wood frame had been all that stood only months prior. “What he has done is so awesome,” said Karen Cetoute, community specialist with Sterling. “I love this place. From what it was to what it is now, I am completely floored.” Cetoute said she hopes for good weather every day, because as long as the sun comes out, the teachers will make sure to take at least one class out there in the afternoon to fill birdfeeders or hold their reading activities. Colin is now just one badge away from becoming an Eagle Scout, and The project got him interested in engineering. “It was cool to watch my plans go from my head to paper, and then actually turn into something.” Pineville Pilot • October 2014 • Page 15
Around Town
The Pineville Pilot Faith News & Notes
Pineville churches to unite for community worship service The fourth annual Pineville-area Community Unity Worship Service will take place Saturday, Oct. 25, at 4 p.m. at Pineville United Methodist Church. St. Mark’s AME Zion and Oak Grove Missionary Baptist churches will join Pineville UMC for the event. The Unity Worship Service is open “to all who demonstrate a oneness that is characteristic of the true church: worshipping without any ethnic or denominational restrictions,” according to a news release. Loaves and Fishes will be the beneficiary of this year’s Unity Worship Service, with the entire offering collected during the service supporting the organization’s mission to provide food to individuals in need in the Charlotte region. Find more information about the organization at its website, www. loavesandfishes.org. Call 704-889-7072 for more
information about the Unity Worship Service. Pineville UMC is located at 110 S. Polk St.
Stough Memorial hosting men’s football evenings Stough Memorial Baptist Church is hosting monthly men’s football evenings one Monday night a month through December. The events begin at 7:30 p.m. in the church’s gathering center and are open to all males 16 years old and older, and attendees are encouraged to bring “man food” with “no veggies,” according to the church’s newsletter. The date and game schedule is as follows: • Oct. 27 – Washington Redskins vs. Dallas Cowboys • Nov. 10 – Carolina Panthers vs. Philadelphia Eagles • Dec. 8 – Atlanta Falcons vs. Green Bay Packers Find more information at www. mystough.org, or call 704-8897665. Stough Memorial Baptist is located at 705 Lakeview Drive.
Page 16 • October 2014 • Pineville Pilot
Senior citizens luncheon at Harrison UMC Harrison United Methodist Church will host an Open Door Luncheon for senior citizens on Nov. 5, a Wednesday, at noon. The event will include an early Thanksgiving meal and an opportunity to make and socialize with friends, according to a church newsletter. Turkey and dessert will be provided, and attendees are encouraged to bring a side dish to share for eight people, such as vegetables, salad, potatoes and more. The luncheon also will include live entertainment. People should R.S.V.P. by Oct. 31, a Friday. Call 704-544-4863 for more information. Harrison UMC is located at 15008 Lancaster Hwy.
Community-wide fall festival at South Charlotte Baptist South Charlotte Baptist Church will host its annual communitywide fall festival on Oct. 31, a Friday, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The event is designed to be a “safe and wholesome alternative to the traditional Halloween trickor-treating,” according to a church announcement, and will include
carnival games, a bounce house and super slides. Hot dogs also will be served during the festival. The event is free and open to the public. Attendees are asked to refrain from wearing masks or dressing up in “scary, inappropriate or immodest costumes,” the announcement said. Find more information at www.southcharlottebaptist.org, or call 704-5425536. South Charlotte Baptist is located at 12416 Lancaster Hwy.
Fall festival, craft fair at Pineville Nazarene Pineville Church of the Nazarene will host a Medieval Times Family Fall Festival on Oct. 29, a Wednesday, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. The event will include games, candy, prizes, a dunking booth, dragons, knights, a giant castle, a pie eating contest for adults and teenagers, a costume contest for all ages, “cheap” food and more. Families are encouraged to bring a bag to collect “goodies.” The church also will host the Linda Sills Memorial Fall Craft Fair and Christmas Bazaar on Nov. 1, a Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will include crafts, food, music and “the excitement of shopping for Christmas,” according to a
church announcement. Find more information about these events at www.pnaz.org, or call 704-542-3618. Pineville Nazarene is located at 8614 PinevilleMatthews Road.
Ken Turner and Valor 3 to perform at Pineville UMC Pineville United Methodist Church will host singer Ken Turner and group Valor 3 on Sunday, Oct. 26, at 6 p.m. in the church sanctuary. Turner is a five-time Grammy Award winner who also has won 10 Dove Awards and is a member of the Gospel Music Hall of Fame. He sang with the Blackwood Brother Quartet and joined Valor 3 in 2011. Valor 3 is made up of members Mark Moore, Ronald Moore and Jeff Rowland, who have sung together for 20 years, according to a church newsletter. Find more information about the concert at www.pinevilleumc. org, or call 704-889-2022. Pineville UMC is located at 110 S. Polk St. Send us your faith notes! Send faith news items to news@ pinevillepilot.com. Announcements should be sent one month in advance.
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Around Town Address
Home Sales in Pineville
Date Sale sold price
Cardinal Woods 13209 Alex Mill Drive Sept. 23 Danby 526 Dansville Drive Sept. 29 13819 Dansington Court Sept. 22 Mccullough 15310 Country Lake Drive Sept. 24 15417 Country Lake Drive Sept. 5 Woodside Falls 14709 Sapphire Lane Sept. 25 12515 Diamond Drive Sept. 24 Woodside Village 12216 Dolomite Drive Sept. 10
$288,000 $ 100,000 $145,000 $398,438 $ 416,492 $197,000 $154,500 $190,000
A breakdown of recent home sales
Sept. 2014 march 2014 march 2013
Homes 250 8 HomesSold Sold 221 Average Sales Price $237,429 Average Sales Price $342,047 $343,757
Aug. 2014 march 2012
22 186 $218,804 $321,856
July 2014 march 2011
14180 $227,378 $357,599
* Editor’s Note: The following is a list of homes sold in Pineville in August 2014. Information provided by the Charlotte Regional Realtor Association’s website, www.sales.carolinahome.com.
The Pineville Pilot Restaurant Scores The Mecklenburg County Health Department inspected the following dining locations in Pineville between Sept. 12 and Oct. 14:
Lowest Scores: • Twinkle Pretzels, 11025 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 88 Violations included: Only employee on site did not possess required certification; employee on site not aware of employee health policy; employee rinsed hands in water without using soap; mixer with large amount of dough dried in bowl; lemon juicer and blender had debris; employee picked up pretzel off floor and placed it back on oven roller; hot dogs and pepperoni in cooler without date markings; large amount of employee foods stored with facility foods; wet towels sitting on counter; soiled wiping cloths from previous day’s use on counter and hanging on shelf above three-compartment sink; shelving and other non-food-contact surfaces with buildup throughout, including shelf above threecompartment sink. • Harper’s Restaurant, 11059 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 90 Violations included: Food debris on pans; cheese sauce not cooled to proper temperature; items on top of and inside pizza preparation refrigerator not at proper temperature; honey butter held three months past date marked; Cajun roumalade held more than 60 days past date marked; condensation dripping from unused lettuce crisper into open food/sauces below; wet stacked bowls and pans; rusted refrigeration shelves with chipped coating; torn refrigerator door gaskets on several coolers; can opener not NSF certified. • The Haven in the Village at Carolina Place, 13150 Dorman Road – 93 Violations included: Person in charge did not possess required certification; thermometers with buildup and old food debris on the probe; cheeses held past expiration date; two wet wiping cloths sitting on countertop. • Kangaroo Express, 100 S. Polk St. – 93.5 Violations included: Person in charge did not possess required certification; no complete employee health policy on site; sanitizer not at news@pinevillepilot.com
proper concentration; some foods to go on roller grill unlabeled, with others labeled for eight days instead of required seven days. • Pineville Rehabilitation & Living Center, 1010 Lakeview Drive – 94 Violations included: Soiled spoons, pan, mixer and can opener blade stored as clean; pork, potatoes, mixed vegetables and barbecue ribs on hot line not held at proper temperature; shredded lettuce, diced tomato and shredded cheese not cold enough; ham and American cheese held without date marking.
28134 • BJ’s Wholesale Club Snack Bar, 11715 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 98.5 • Buca di Beppo, 10915 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 97 • Dorchester, 12390 Dorman Road – 97.5 • El Veracruz Restaurant, 391 Towne Centre Blvd. – 96 • Harper’s Restaurant, 11059 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 90 • The Haven in the Village at Carolina Place, 13150 Dorman Road – 93 • Kangaroo Express, 100 S. Polk St. – 93.5 • Mama’s Coffee House, 716 Main St. – 97.5 • Pineville Rehabilitation & Living Center, 1010 Lakeview Drive – 94 • Sam’s Club, 11425 Carolina Place Pkwy. Market – 98 Café – 96.5 • Sky Zone, 10200 Centrum Pkwy. – 98.5 • Sterling Elementary School, 9601 China Grove Church Road – 99.5 • Taco Bell, 10917 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 98.5 • Twinkle Pretzels, 11025 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 88 • Waldhorn Restaurant, 12101 Lancaster Hwy. – 95 • Wasabi Sushi, 11025 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 97 About the grades Restaurants are given grades of A for scoring at least 90 percent, B for 80 to 89 percent and C for 70 to 79 percent. The state revokes permits for restaurants that score below 70 percent. Restaurants are no longer eligible for two bonus points if an employee has completed a food service sanitation program within three years. The Pineville Pilot places all restaurants that receive a score of 94 or lower, indicating a grade of A- or below, in the “lowest scores” category, with specific violations listed. Pineville Pilot • October 2014 • Page 17
Sports
(From left) Zach Gilbert and Chance Kennedy are spearheading the Sabre football resurgence that’s resulted in a 6-1 record. Hannah Dockery/Pilot photo
A New Era by Hannah Dockery news@pinevillepilot.com
There were whispers in the south Charlotte community that South Meck football would look a little different this season. But as a program that’s gone 36-82 since 2004 and hasn’t had a winning season since 2009, no one but coach Rocky White and the Sabres themselves expected them to be 6-1 going into Week 8. Since their 49-0 season-opening loss to Independence that left them stunned, the Sabres have gone on to win six consecutive games, including wins over reigning Southwestern 4A champion Rocky River and old rival Myers Park. With each Friday, those whispers are growing louder as people began referring to the program as the “New South,” capturing the idea that this isn’t the same losing team of prior seasons. In their recent winning streak, they’ve averaged 37 points per contest while one of the toughest Sabre defenses in years behind playmakers like Chance Kennedy and Zach Gilbert has held opponents to 14. But for Kennedy and Gilbert, being 6-1 isn’t good enough and they’re silencing the outside noise buzzing around their impressive start. “Sure, I’m glad to be where we are right now, but it’s not satisfying,” Gilbert said. “I want to get further than where we are right now. I don’t care about bandwagon fans or what people are talking about. I want more.” The 6-foot-2, 245-pound Gilbert has been an integral part of the Sabres front four, combining an imposing presence with natural athletic ability to give the defense a physicality that looks nothing like the smaller teams of prior years. The junior already has offers on the table from North Carolina, Pittsburgh, the Charlotte 49ers, Old Dominion and Florida as he’s been wreaking havoc from his spot at defensive end alongside Antonio Williams. Add Tennessee commit Stephen Griffin manning a disruptive secondary from his spot at safety, Josh Brannon and Kennedy at the corner spots and hard-hitting linebackers Austin Smith and Austin Chapman and Page 18 • October 2014 • Pineville Pilot
it’s no wonder this defense looks better than before – a strength they’re going to need as they take on Charlotte Catholic and their famous Wing-T offense on Friday, Oct.17. As good as their improved defense is, the Sabre offense is clicking too. Antonio Wallace is getting comfortable controlling the offense and an improved passing attack, Kennedy and Griffin are making big plays at receiver and Devin Andrews controls movement on the ground behind a tough line that can open holes for him. “We’re not separated anymore,” Gilbert said. “Our defense is as good as our special teams is. Our special teams is as good as our offense. Our offense is as good as our defense. We came together and we’ve got it all together. We’ve come together as a family.” With a record to their name that has South Meck football fans pouring out to games like never before, things are about to get a lot tougher for the Sabers as they face Catholic, Ardrey Kell and Providence in the coming weeks – all teams that are currently 6-1. A win over Catholic would be another huge step in the right direction as the Sabres have only beaten the Cougars once since 2005. “We’re going to hang with them,” said Kennedy, who also has an offer from North Carolina to his credit. “We can’t over-exaggerate the importance of one game, but we haven’t beaten them since we’ve been here. To have a chance and knowing we have a chance to win, it feels good. We’re seven games in now. We’re ready now. We’ve been ready and we’re getting there and we’re on a roll.” “We’ve got to be physical,” Gilbert added. “I know Charlotte Catholic is a physical team. Their offensive line is a very physical offensive line. I know coming into the game that we have to match that. Most of the teams we play haven’t been that physical but I know Catholic is going to be physical and we have to be ready for that.” With the Sabres clicking in each phase of the game, a win over Catholic is well within reach, though Kennedy and Gilbert agree that they’re still viewed as the underdogs going into Friday’s matchup. But for the first time in a decade, the Sabres have a chance to beat Catholic and compete for a (see South Meck on page 19)
(From left) Ryan Miller and Jarret Anderson have Charlotte Catholic living in the moment and eyeing another conference title. Andrew Stark/Pilot photo
Cougars continue to roar by Andrew Stark news@pinevillepilot.com
Coming into this season, much of the talk surrounding the Charlotte Catholic football team was focused on what they didn’t have. They were replacing long time coach Jim Oddo with his top assistant in Mike Brodowicz and replacing all-American running back Elijah Hood with a group of guys nobody other than the Catholic faithful knew too much about. But, already seven games into the season, the new-look Cougars are dominating in their customary fashion and sit 6-1 in the So. Meck 8 – the second-year conference which has quickly become one of the state’s most competitive. So how has the transition gone seemingly so smooth? “It was business as usual,” said senior Ryan Miller, the Cougars team leader in receptions, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns. “But we knew that everyone had to work hard, compete and step up and do their own part.” Junior running back Jaret Anderson has been one of the Cougars who has certainly raised his game, quickly becoming their leading rusher this season. Like many of his teammates, Anderson said this season has been a fun ride for the Cougars, a team few outside of the program thought had much of chance to compete for a league title. “It’s been pretty exciting because a lot of the talk was how Charlotte Catholic was going to fall off,” Anderson said. “I think the whole team was excited with what we had to prove.” Offensively, the Cougars have used a number of guys to average 35 points per game, proving they’re more than capable of putting points on the board in bunches. While the run game has been dominating with Anderson (882 yards, 12 touchdowns, nine yards per carry) leading the way in the familiar Wing-T offense that’s defined Catholic over the years, he’s had a lot of help. Even with
Anderson’s emergence, Cole Perry (323 rushing yards), Miller (199), Nick Rizzieri (172), Jake Priester (121) and Clay Lozzi (116) have helped the Cougars average 7.3 yards per rush and score 23 rushing touchdowns. But this year’s team has infused some of the offensive philosophies of Brodowicz, a former Elon University quarterback. “We’re going to run the football and we’ll be a physical team. We’ll still be that. The Wing-T is what makes us successful here and I’d be dumb to come in and say we’re going into the Spread or something,” Brodowicz said earlier this season. “What do you keep and what do you change and that’s a delicate balance I’ve been thinking (during the offseason). I didn’t come into a program that’s been losing. It’s easy to say ‘I’m throwing everything out’ with a losing program. When you come into a winning program – especially one that’s had such a long history of winning and tradition as Catholic – you have to look at the core values of the program, the school and the community and put your little wrinkles in.” One new wrinkle the Cougars are using is an increased passing attack. Junior John Walton is 33 for 60 for 574 yards and has made the Cougars more balanced – and more dangerous. “There’s technically a new Charlotte Catholic, but it’s still a lot of the same guys and a lot of the same system,” Anderson said. “We’ve just gone out and executed it. “We’re more versatile. We have a lot more players who can do different things and that’s what makes us dangerous.” And it’s not just on offense. The Cougars have allowed just one team to top 30 points this season, and allow just under 20 per game. Junior Connor Miller, the team’s leading tackler, has teamed with fellow junior linebackers Alexander Gagnon, Matthew White and senior Braeden Meade to form a stout defensive unit. The balance of tough running, a more prolific passing game and a stingy defense (see Charlotte Catholic on page 19)
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Sports
sports shorts by Hannah Dockery news@pinevillepilot.com
Catholic soccer blanks West Meck, continues streak Charlotte Catholic’s boys soccer team continued their dominating run on Oct. 15 with a 9-0 win over West Meck. With the win, the Cougars improved to 17-1-1 overall and 12-0 in So. Meck 8 conference play and are riding a 13-game win streak. The Cougars benefited from even scoring across the roster, as has been the case all season. Jack Miller, Zach Dymock, Sam Winner, Paxton Laurie, Ben Stockley, Jamir James, Sean Carlin, Chris Efenecey and Brendan McDonough all found the back of the net. Senior goal keeper Sean Pratt recorded his 10th shutout of the season. McDonough leads the Cougars scoring effort this season with a team-high 21 goals and 21 assists. Jordan Poff and Stockley have 12 goals apiece on the season. “Our senior class is 14 players deep and 10 of those are in the starting lineup,” said coach Oscar del Pino, earlier this season. “I’ve found that as a coach, when you have teams that are heavily seniorladen, that group tends to be more of one mind. They have a clear set of objectives for what they want to accomplish in a season and they’re doing that.” The Cougars host rival Providence (16-2-1) on
Oct. 22 in the last regular season game of the season.
South Meck runners compete at NCRunners Elite Invitational The South Meck cross-country team competed in the NCRunners Elite Invitational, held Oct. 11 at Ivey Redmon Sports Complex in Kernersville. Twenty schools from across the state participated. In the girls race, South Meck boasted two Top-50 finishers in Izzy Hastings, who paced the Sabres with a time of 22 minutes, 26 seconds for a 28th place finish, and Josie Hicks, who ran in 23:51.37 for a 49th place finish. In the boys championship, Ryan Kavanaugh ran in 17:31.78 for a 48th place finish.
Cougar volleyball drops heartbreaker to Ardrey Kell The Charlotte Catholic volleyball dropped a tough match to Ardrey Kell in the So. Meck 8 conference tournament on Oct. 14. The Knights, who finished the regular season 17-5 and 12-2 in conference play, won the first two games 25-17 and 25-23. But the Cougars rallied back to take the third game, 26-24 before falling in the final game, 25-22. With the loss, the Cougars fell to 16-5.
Despite the heartbreaker, several Cougars stepped up with big performances in the match against Ardrey Kell. Six-foot junior outside hitter Emma Mitchell recorded a team-high 19 kills and five blocks. Senior setter Elizabeth Singletary recorded 28 digs, Mollie Ray added 26 and Sarah Schweihs had 23. The Cougars traveled to Butler on Oct. 18 in the first round of the N.C. High School Athletic Association Class 4A state tournament, after Pineville Pilot went to press.
Cougars, Sabres compete at Wendy’s Invitational The boys and girls cross-country teams from South Meck and Charlotte Catholic competed with 35 other schools in the Wendy’s Invitational, held Oct. 4 at McAlpine Park. The Sabres and Cougars boys team competed in the Open Race. Ben Talbert set the pace, running in 16 minutes, 30 seconds for a 23rd place finish. Haywood Ferguson (16:31, 24th), William Thomas (16:57, 39th), Ryan Kavanaugh (17:19, 63rd) and Henry Crew (17:41, 84th) also had strong finishes for the Sabres. On Catholic’s team, Chase Smith finished first for the Cougars, running in 16:59 to finish 41st. Paul Gennett (17:36, 78th) and Jacob Winters (17:38, 81st) followed.
by the numbers charlotte South VS catholic Meck South Meck (continued from page 18)
conference title and with Gilbert anchoring a stingy defense and a balanced attack in the air and on the ground, the term “New South” has a chance to fully come to fruition. “People still see us as the underdog,” Kennedy said. “Every team we’ve played so far and beaten has had an excuse – bad referees, not having certain players, bad calls, this or that – it’s always something. “But this is a new beginning for us. The New South is us being a new team and not worrying about past years and the history. It’s having the winning mindset and we’re not listening to what anyone else is saying, we’re just winning. People can joke about it all they want but we know what happens in the locker room. We know we’re the new South Meck.” news@pinevillepilot.com
6–1
Season record
6–1
3–0
Conference record
3–0
6
Consecutive wins
3
Nov. 1, 2013 (21-14 To Ardrey Kell)
Last conference loss
Charlotte Catholic (continued from page 18)
sept. 25,2009 (21-14 To Olympic)
279–298
All-time record
435-190
180-199-4
All-time conference record
207-72-1
7
All-time conference titles
24
24-72
Conference record in 2000s
80-7
14 (1981)
Most wins in a season
16 (2004,2005)
state champs, 1981
Deepest playoff run
3 (since 1973)
1
Wins in head-to-head series
8
0
Series win streak
5
30–14, Aug. 22, 2007
Last win in series
42-6, Oct. 18, 2013
221
Points scored this season
248
136
Points allowed this season
138
has Cougar fans thinking conference title and beyond. “We don’t think of this as being any other year. It’s the same thing,” Miller said. “This week’s game is just like any other. We prepare during the week and go out and play Charlotte Catholic football.” But, with so many question marks coming into the season, ending it with a conference championship and deep playoff run would be special, especially to Miller and the seniors. “It would mean more to win this year,” he said. “The past few years has been relied on one player. This year the whole team has come together and we all have our own different roles and we can do different things. It will be good, because everyone can feel a part of it and feel like they’ve accomplished winning it.” And that’s just what the Cougars plan on doing.
Pineville Pilot • October 2014 • Page 19
Page 20 • October 2014 • Pineville Pilot
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