Union County Weekly

Union County’s

#1

Real Estate

AGENT See Page 18

Vol. 11 No. 13 March 25, 2016

#1 Per CMLS Total Volume in 2015

DavidUpchurch.com

www.

www.unioncountyweekly.com

Board of Education names Morris interim superintendent

Towns hold egg hunts Weddington, Indian Trail and Waxhaw got in the Easter spirit last weekend with egg hunts for kids.

Page 11

UCPS General Counsel Michele Morris will serve as the interim superintendent as the district searches for a permanent replacement for Mary Ellis in time for the 2016-17 school year. Page 12

Dash for Down Syndrome raises $49K Students explore careers Union County's 'Students at Work Week' gave middle schoolers the chance to explore future careers.

Page 13

Big goals for Cav soccer Cuthbertson girls' soccer team is off to a 4-1-2 start under new leadership after last year's 20-3 season.

Page 17

Photo courtesy of SnookySmiles Photography

More than 1,000 runners and walkers came out last week to participate in the annual Dash for Down Syndrome 5K.

News Briefs 6 | Crime Blotter 10 | Education 12 | Faith 14 | Calendar 15 | Sports 16 | Classifieds 19

Celebrate with us!

EASTER

Good Friday Service March 25, 7:00 PM With Senior Pastor Dr. John H. Munro and Calvary Worship Team

Sunday, March 27 | 9:00 & 11:00 AM 5801 Pineville – Matthews Road, Charlotte, NC 28226 | 704.543.1200

calvarychurch.com

U

www.unioncountyweekly.com

Page 2 | March 25, 2016 | Union County Weekly

CATCH A GREAT OFFER BEFORE IT FLIES AWAY.

8FÂľWF IBUDIFE BOPUIFS HSFBU EFBM UIJT TQSJOH &YQFSJFODF UIF FGGJDJFODZ BOE SFMJBCJMJUZ UIBU 5SBOF JT GBNPVT GPS EVSJOH PVS &BSMZ #JSE 4BMF #VU IVSSZ CFDBVTF XIJMF B 5SBOF XJMM LFFQ ZPV DPNGPSUBCMF GPS ZFBST UP DPNF UIFTF EFBMT POMZ TUJDL BSPVOE VOUJM .BZ UI

EARLY 3ALE BIRD

Buy a qualifying Trane Heating & A/C system and choose:

No Interest until January 2021*

OR Trade-In Allowance of $1,000** with Equal Payments

McClintock Heating & Cooling www.McClintockHVAC.com

Call 704.321.5207 to schedule a free estimate *The Home ProjectsŽ VisaŽ credit card is issued by Wells Fargo Financial Bank, an Equal Housing Lender. Special terms apply to qualifying purchases charged with approved credit at participating merchants. The special terms APR will continue to apply until all qualifying purchases are paid in full. The monthly payment for this purchase will be the amount that will pay for the purchase in full in equal payments during the promotional (special terms) period. The APR for Purchases will apply to certain fees such as a late payment fee or if you use the card for other transactions. For new accounts, the APR for Purchases is 28.99%. If you are charged interest in any billing cycle, the minimum interest charge will be $1.00. If you use the card for cash advances, the cash advance fee is 5.00% of the amount of the cash advance, but not less than $10.00. This information is accurate as of 01/06/2016 and is subject to change. For current information, call us at 1-800-431-5921. Offer expires 5/30/2016. **See your independent Trane Dealer for complete program eligibility, dates, details and restrictions. Special financing offers OR trade-in allowances from $100 up to $1,000 valid on qualifying systems only. Offers vary by equipment. All sales must be to homeowners in the United States. Void where prohibited. Copyright Š Trane 2016

www.unioncountyweekly.com

Union County Weekly | March 25, 2016 | Page 3

Union is one of healthiest counties, could still use work Union County is still among the Top 5 healthiest counties in North Carolina, but experts say there is room for improvement.

The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute (UWPHI) recently released its seventh annual County Health Rankings, as snapshots comparing the health of nearly every county in the nation.

The local data allows each state to see how its counties compare on more than 30 factors that influence health including education, housing, jobs, smoking and access to healthy food.

“The purpose of the rankings is to show where people live really matters to your health,” said Jan O’Neill, associate researcher at UWPHI. Union County was the third healthiest county in the 2016 rankings, behind Wake and Orange. Union took a step up in the rankings after a fourth place rank in 2015. Mecklenburg was ranked fifth both this and last year.

The RWJF and UWPHI rank counties on two lists – health outcomes and health factors. O’Neill describes the outcomes as “today’s health,” referring to a reflection of premature deaths and quality of life, and

the factors as “tomorrow’s health,” referring to items people can “do something about,” such as health behaviors, clinical care, social and economic factors and physical environment.

She said the rankings look at aspects of counties that someone might not immediately think relates to health, such as access to quality education, early childhood education, job training or area wages, rather than simply medical care.

Union County ranked third for health factors in both 2016 and 2015.

The county saw an increase in diabetic monitoring and children in poverty, and a decrease in premature deaths, sexually transmitted infections, injury deaths and alcohol-impaired driving deaths.

Mammography screenings, physical inactivity and adult obesity remained the same.

This year, the ranking also took a closer look at the differences in health between urban, rural, suburban and smaller metro counties. Nationally, researchers found rural counties not only have higher rates of premature death, but also nearly one in five rural counties saw rises in premature death rates over the past decade, while most urban counties have experienced consistent improvement. Rural counties also have higher rates of smoking, obesity, child poverty, teen births and higher numbers of uninsured adults compared to large

Customize Your Dinin� Space

Enjoy the beauty and styling of American Leather. Our designers can help you pull it all together.

Beautiful Dining Ideas! Your Choice of Style, Choice of Finish and Choice of Chairs 2. Enhance with 1. Choose the our selection of table shape & 4 edges, 17 size that fits bases, 14 legs, your taste and and solid top room. We make material. it easy!

4. Customize 3. Let your even more with imagination over 40 chair choose between models available.

60 colors in 3 finishes and 250 fabrics.

ties or the concentration of poverty in rural or residentially segregated communities—targeting resources to the people and places in greatest need is essential to building a Culture of Health. The rankings are an important springboard for conversations on how to expand opportunity for all to be healthy.”

O’Neill pointed to Durham County as an example of using the county rankings to spur policy change. Durham started investing in the county’s racial and socioeconomic inequalities and started increase access to health care needs, as well as job skills resources at the Holton Career and Resource Center.

O’Neill explained the RWJF provides an online resource to inspire ways communities can help improve its county’s health, as well as free health coaching to help enact better policies. She also said the website can identify places of strength and improvement.

“When communities focus on adopting policy change, like a large career and resource center, big system changes and policy change, that’s going to improve the community,” O’Neill said. “Having policy is what’s going to create long-term sustainable changes in the community.”

Visit www.countyhealthrankings.org for a more in-depth look at the county rankings, as well as how Union County compares to others across the state.

• premium all natural dog food • all natural treats • dog and cat toys •

Professional Grooming for Dogs & Cats All Breeds & Styles,

by Appointment at 700 N. Broome St. (Hwy. 16 in Waxhaw) (704) 243-1946 Monroe Crossing Mall (Hwy. 74 in Monroe) (704) 226-0626

www.RCandD.com

Waxhaw location New Clients Mention Union County Weekly & Receive 25% Off Your First Groom!

Ask us about our special order food service!

• professional grooming • unique gifts • pet carriers • and much more •

NOW HIRING! WENDY’S NOW HIRING CREW TEAM MEMBERS FOR OUR SARDIS ROAD LOCATION! HOLDING OPEN INTERVIEWS FOR ALL SHIFTS! COME TO OUR MATTHEW’S WENDY’S LOCATION AT

In-Home Delivery

goodshomefurnishings.com

1145 E. INDEPENDENCE, MATTHEWS

Pineville Showroom Mon-Sat 10-7 Sunday 12-5

MONDAY THRU FRIDAY 10:00 AM TO 12:00 PM NOON & 2:00 PM TO 5:00 PM

11735 Carolina Place Parkway 704.910.4045

EMAIL YOUR RESUME TO CRG0029@CLASSICBURGERS.COM

beds • dinnerware • ID tags • travel gear

Canadel Dining Room Sale

urban counties with lower smoking and obesity rates, fewer injury deaths and more residents who attended some college. Large suburban counties have the lowest rates of childhood poverty and teen births.

O’Neill said there was no single factor that explained the major differences between rural and urban counties.

The rankings also highlighted some new measures, including residential segregation among blacks and whites, drug overdose deaths and insufficient sleep, and how they contribute to health, but they were not a part of rankings.

Union County was in the middle range to a more integrated range of residential segregation between whites and black, as well as non-whites and whites, compared to the whole nation.

She hopes the rankings and data help incite action within the community and start a conversation about ways to improve the health of the county.

Communities have used rankings to invite new partners to the table to support community health, including businesses, governments, schools, community developers, nonprofits, philanthropists and more.

“The rankings data are only as valuable as the action it inspires and the lives it improves,” said Bridget Catlin, co-director of the County Health Rankings. “Whether it’s addressing health gaps between coun-

spa products • apparel • collars & leashes

by Courtney Schultz courtney@cmgweekly.com

www.unioncountyweekly.com

Page 4 | March 25, 2016 | Union County Weekly

FREE WILLS and LIVING TRUSTS SEMINARS! North Carolina law firm reveals the 7 costly mistakes families make in their estate plans!

TAX LAW CHANGES REVEALED

Will your family be one of those casualties?

Attend this seminar and immediately discover how you can avoid mistakes in these key areas 1. PROBATE COSTS AND DELAYS: Avoid potential delays of 6 months to 1 year or more. Eliminate or minimize substantial court, attorneys’ and executors’ fees.

2. NURSING HOME COSTS: Protect your nest egg from nursing home costs, which average over $6,000 per month in North Carolina.

3. DIVORCE: Preserve your children’s inheritance if they divorce... up to 50% of your assets could walk out the door with your ex in-law.

4. REMARRIAGE: Prevent your assets from going to a stranger instead of your children if your spouse gets remarried after your death.

5. ESTATE TAXES: Eliminate or minimize state and federal estate taxes.

6. RETIREMENT PLANS: Choose the right options to preserve your IRA or 401(k).

Take advantage of opportunities to minimize income taxes for your beneficiaries.

7. INCAPACITY: Make your final wishes known with a Living Will and Health Care Proxy. Avoid a publicly humiliating and expensive guardianship proceeding if you become legally incapacitated or disabled.

Even though you’ve worked hard your entire life and saved up something you’d like to pass on to your family, they may end up with nothing, without proper planning. When you attend one of our Wills and Living Trust seminars, you’ll immediately discover how you can prevent this from happening to you and your family…but space is limited, so call now to reserve your seat.

704-288-6921

All seminar attendees will receive a FREE private consultation to see how a proper estate plan will benefit you and your family ($300 value).

RESERVE YOUR SEAT TODAY Light refreshments will be served. Sponsored by: The Potter Law Firm

Attorney John R. Potter is an Estate MATTHEWS Planning and Elder Law attorney in the Wednesday, April 6 Ballantyne area of Charlotte, North 1:00-2:30pm Carolina. His seminars are said to be Hampton Inn Matthews entertaining, informative, and easy9615 Independence Pointe Pkwy, to-understand. Mr. Potter received Matthews, NC his B.A. in Economics from Davidson College and his law degree from the University of Virginia School of Law. BALLANTYNE Mr. Potter is a member of the American Thursday, April 7 Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys, 10:00-11:30am the National Academy of Elder Law Potter Law Firm Attorneys, and the North Carolina Bar 15720 Brixham Hill Avenue, Association’s Estate Planning and Elder Suite 300 Law Sections.

Charlotte, NC

Seating is limited, so call now!

BALLANTYNE Saturday, April 9 10:00-11:30am SpringHill Suites 12325 Johnston Road

Charlotte, NC

704-288-6921

24-hr Reservation Line or Register Online

www.potterestateplanning.com

The Potter Law Firm

15720 Brixham Hill Avenue, Suite 300 (formerly John J. Delaney Drive) Charlotte, NC 28277 Attorney Advertising

Waxhaw buying 7.5 acres for leaf composting

by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

WAXHAW – Waxhaw is not sweeping its seasonal leaf collecting under the rug. Instead, the town is going all in, buying 7.5 acres off Waxhaw Highway to build a leaf-composting facility.

The town offers curbside loose-leaf collection from November to January. Two three-person crews collect about three loads of leaves Monday through Thursday, logging about 2,000 hours over the weeks.

“If we’re going to stay in this business and do it in an efficient way, we’re going to need to look at a facility to house and compost these leaves,” Town Manager Warren Wood told commissioners Tuesday, March 22.

Commissioners gave Wood approval by a 4-1 vote to buy the land for about $335,000. Brenda Stewart voted in opposition.

“This is one of those things the town has chosen to provide a service to the community over the years,” Commissioner James Warner said.

“We need to do it right.”

Once leaves are composted, Waxhaw could store it, use it, sell it or give it away to the school system.

State regulations drive the need for a new facility. The facility has to meet site, plan design, facility operation and other requirements set by the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality.

Some of the record keeping is detailed. For instance, the town would have to keep records of the leaves’ temperature, as well as what’s going in and coming out of the facility.

“This is not just a matter of putting leaves out in the woods,” Wood said.

County staff considered the cost of taking the leaves to southern Mecklenburg County or the Union County landfill, but either option would result in a one-hour round-trip up to three times a day.

The town looked for land that was accessible, away from residential neighborhoods and had the potential for expansion, namely for a public works facility.

The Museum of the Waxhaws sits to the west and south side of the 7.5 acres. Over time, the town could buy the four-acre parcel to the north to connect the leaf composting facility to a new public works center.

Wood envisions downtown becoming the center of Waxhaw, based on population trends.

He said the geographical size of Waxhaw has grown from 2.9 square miles to 11.7. And with the potential of developable land in the south, the town could grow to 30 square miles, depending on political will.

The town will begin design work on the compost facility to return to the board with some construction estimates. Construction could fall within the 2016-17 budget process, Wood said.

County, fire departments split on contract talks

by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

MONROE – Two weeks after his daughter’s house burned down, Union Commissioner Richard Helms sought a quick resolution to the county’s contract negotiations with volunteer fire departments.

The county has tried to work with volunteer fire departments on approving a service agreement since November 2015. Fire chiefs have rejected a couple of drafts proposed by the county.

“This has turned out to be a very volatile discussion,” Helms said at the March 21 commissioner meeting. “The public needs to understand the commissioners have not been involved in this process.”

Helms expressed concern that county staff didn’t advise commissioners of contract negotiations or consult with them, considering they have a lot of interaction with volunteer fire departments.

“I think that staff has demonstrated that they need the commissioners to take this process over,” he said.

Neither Jerry Simpson or Stony Rushing indicated any desire to go that route. Lance Simpson and Frank Aikmus weren't at the meeting.

“The contract is critical in determining longterm sustainable funding,” Jerry Simpson said.

“I think it’s important we get down and get this thing settled. One thing I will not do as commissioner is I will not step in front of staff. I will not negotiate.”

County Manager Cynthia Coto said staff was waiting for the volunteer fire departments to resume negotiations. She told commissioners that

A timeline of negotiations Here’s an abbreviated timeline county staff provided commissioners March 21 regarding ongoing negotiations with volunteer fire departments.

• Nov. 24, 2015: County sends a contract draft to fire chiefs and asks for comments by Dec. 24.

• Dec. 15, 2015: The Union County Fire Chief Association requests a 90-day extension.

• Jan. 4, 2016: County commission directs staff to grant extension until Jan. 31.

• Feb. 11, 2016: Staff receives contract with “substantial revisions” from attorney representing volunteer fire departments.

• Feb. 18, 2016: County negotiates with attorney representing fire chiefs.

• March 2, 2016: County sends a new contract draft to attorney.

• March 14, 2016: Attorney sends county letter indicating fire chiefs didn’t approve draft.

• March 16, 2016: County invites attorney back to negotiating table.

staff had responded to 10 unresolved issues volunteer fire departments had with the latest draft.

If negotiations were at a point where there are unresolved issues, Coto said staff would meet with the board to get further direction.

County staff has set aside a work session for April 18 to talk about funding volunteer fire departments.

Helms admitted the issue was somewhat personal for him. While his family escaped the house fire, volunteer firefighters went into the home to rescue pets and retrieve valuables.

“How do you put a figure on that service?”

Helms said.

www.unioncountyweekly.com

Training young scientists at summer camp

by Hannah Chronis hannah@cmgweekly.com

Future engineers, paleontologists, marine biologists and video game designers will one day trace their love for science and the start of their careers back to Terrific Scientific.

South Charlotte-based Terrific Scientific is a hands-on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) program for students 5 to 14 years old. Beginning in June, Terrific Scientific will launch 35 summer programs aimed at engaging students in the science fields through hands-on projects and real-world experiences.

Camps include everything from veterinary medicine to digital arts.

“Our goal is to get kids excited about science and the real world around them, and to realize that science is fun,” said Jill Long, director of Terrific Scientific. “Everyone is a scientist.”

Terrific Scientific camps run weekly from 9 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. for 6- to 15-year-olds and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. for 5- and 6-year-olds, with precamp and post-camp availability. Kids begin the day with a demonstration by a program director, and then take what they learned into a lab setting. Between experiments, projects and handson learning, they spend time outside doing teambuilding activities.

“They aren’t sitting in a classroom being lectured,” Long said. “We introduce a topic, and then they learn about it through a project or experiment. We get them excited about science from a young age, and show them it’s not out of reach for them. A lot of camps give introductions

so kids can say, ‘Maybe I can do something like that one day.’”

At the end of each day, camp counselors – many of whom are CMS teachers or pursuing a teaching degree – send kids home with a list of specific questions parents can ask their child.

For Long, it’s about keeping the parents involved and encouraging the children to talk about what they’re learning.

Long said the program’s veterinary camp is among the most popular, along with the robotic’s camp. New this year is minecraft modding.

“The bottom line is everything we do is handson and it’s fun,” she said. “If you make it fun, they’re going to be excited about it.”

Visit www.terrificscientificnc.org for a full list of summer camps. Camps take place at United Faith Christian Academy and The British International School of Charlotte. Call 704-774-3016 for more information.

Terrific Scientific will offer 35 hands-on science summer camp programs for kids.

Photo courtesy of Jill Long

CELEBRATING 17 YEARS SERVING UNION COUNTY

Exceptional

DENTISTRY

AT THE UNION COUNTY CENTER FOR COMPREHENSIVE DENTISTRY

CASE OF THE MONTH

Start your year out with a confident new smile. Dr. Hess used state of the art crowns to artistically restore this patients smile. Another amazing result from the hands of Dr. Hess!

Another beautiful and natural result from Dr. Hess!

Dr. Hess personally treats his patients one at a time in a comfortable, stressfree setting. Dr. Hess is a senior faculty member of the Dawson Academy, an internationally recognized education center. He is a frequently published author, and lectures internationally on advanced comprehensive care and cosmetic techniques.

Financing for treatment is available. And yes we can take your insurance!

LEONARD A. HESS, DDS, PA Cosmetic & General Dentistry

704-289-3161

2160 COMMERCE DR | SUITE A | MONROE

www.drleonardhess.com

!MERICAN !CADEMY OF #OSMETIC $ENTISTRY s !MERICAN %QUILIBRATION 3OCIETY !MERICAN $ENTAL !SSOCIATION s .ORTH #AROLINA $ENTAL 3OCIETY s !CADEMY OF 'ENERAL $ENTISTRY

Union County Weekly | March 25, 2016 | Page 5

www.unioncountyweekly.com

Page 6 | March 25, 2016 | Union County Weekly

The Weekly

P.O. Box 471083 Charlotte, NC 28247 Phone: 704-849-2261 • Fax: 704-849-2504 www.unioncountyweekly.com

Editorial Managing Editor Hannah Chronis Education Editor Courtney Schultz Development Editor Justin Vick Sports editor Ben Doster Faith Columnist Mark Harris

Advertising Mike Gianpetro Natalie Grendel Johane Hirschfield

Design Art Director Maria Hernandez Layout Editor Erin Kirby

Business President Jonathan McElvy Publisher Kelly Wright Associate Publisher Frank Vasquez Business Manager Brent Epling Advertising: kelly@cmgweekly.com Letters to the Editor: hannah@cmgweekly.com Press Releases: hannah@cmgweekly.com

News Briefs Novant to offer free sports screening for UCPS athletes Novant Health will offer free Competitive Edge Sports Screenings for middle and high school athletes in the UCPS system. The screening will involve a review of medical history, sports-specific screenings, cardiac screening and musculoskeletal and visual exams. Cardiac screenings will be for high school students only.

Screenings take place May 7, a Saturday, from 8 a.m. to noon. Registration opens April 1 and ends May 1, and is on a first come, first serve basis.

Forest Hills, Monroe, Piedmont, Porter Ridge, Sun Valley and Central Academy students will receive screenings at Novant Health Child and Adolescent Medical Group Monroe, located at 1994 Wellness Road in Monroe.

Cuthbertson, Marvin Ridge, Parkwood and Weddington will receive screenings at Novant Health Waxhaw Family Physicians & Sports Medicine, located at 3614 Providence Road S. in Waxhaw.

Forest Hills High School students Meghanne Edwards and Diego Morgado-Alfaro serve cornbread as part of their volunteer work with the National Honor Society.

Democratic Women announce annual Donkey Dinner date MONROE – The Democratic Women of Union County will hold its annual Donkey Dinner fundraiser on April 22, a Friday, at Old Armory Community Center Banquet Hall, located at 500 S. Johnson St. Admission is $35 and reservations are required, which must be made by April 12. Doors will open at 6 p.m. for socialization and meeting the 2016 candidates.

Dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m., with the program beginning at 7:15 p.m. Proceeds benefit democratic candidates and GOTV efforts.

Contact Judy Amick at 704-846-1578 for more information.

Farmers Market hosts ‘soup fest’ Union County Weekly is published by Charlotte Media Group. All rights reserved.

Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited.

organizations and businesses served madefrom-scratch soups and cornbread to the community, free of charge. Approximately 40 gallons of soup were served and the remaining gallons were frozen for shelter use.

MONROE – The Union County Farmers Market held a soup fest last week to conclude the Union County Community Shelter’s annual Souper Bowl of Caring campaign. Fifteen

Officer Josh Secrest, representing the Union County Sheriff's Office, made beef and vegetable soup for soup fest.

Photos courtesy of Nancy Stephen

Common Cupboard golf classic registration deadline approaching INDIAN TRAIL – Nonprofit Common Heart will hold its sixth annual Common Cupboard Golf Classic on May 2, a Monday, to raise funds for the food pantry. Common Cupboard feeds an average of 550 families in need each month, and ap-

proximately 7,000 households in Union County, Matthews, Mint Hill and southeast Charlotte.

The tournament begins at noon and will take place at Firethorne Country Club in Marvin. The day includes raffle prizes, contests, lunch, dinner and a silent auction as well as prizes for first, second and third.

The cost to golf is $125 per person if registered

by April 2. Cost increases to $150 per person after.

“Every fundraiser we host is an important piece of the puzzle to help us feed our neighbors in need,” said Keith Adams, Common Heart executive director. “Our golf tournament is no different.

We invite local golf enthusiasts to come enjoy a relaxing day on Charlotte's most exclusive golf course while supporting a great cause.”

Visit www.commoncupboardgolfclassic.com to register.

Construction company selected for Crooked Creek improvements MONROE – Union County Public Works awarded M.B. Kahn the contract to replace and improve the headworks system at the Crooked Creek Water Reclamation Facility. Construction is slated to begin in May and be competed in May 2017.

Improvements will provide environmental benefits by equalizing water flow into the facility, and presenting spills during rain periods.

The project will consist of: • Replacement of existing aged headworks facility, which removes trash and debris from the flow to the plant and improves the downstream biological treatment process.

• Relocation and replacement of the existing influent pump station from Sardis Church Road into the plant property. This will increase ability to pump flow to the Crooked Creek Water Reclamation Facility and reduce potential for spills.

• Construction of a 3-million gallon aerated equalization basin. The purpose of the equalization basin is to hold wastewater when it is arriving too rapidly due to rainfall events and then allow us to send that stored wastewater back to the treatment plant when flows have subsided. This offsets the need to expand the entire treatment facility to handle peak flows that may occur on an irregular basis or only occur for a small amount of time during any given day.

The Crooked Creek Water Reclamation System was originally constructed in 1988. It was upgraded in 1995 and has a current rated capacity of 1.9 million gallons per day.

Join Novant Health Matthews & the Levine Senior Center for Public Health Week with our

Senior Health & Wellness Expo

Tuesday, April 5th 9AM to Noon • Cooking Demonstrations • Exercise Workshops • Free Health Screenings • Med Drop • Vendors *Mammograms (Call 704-384-7226 to register in advance – most insurance accepted) Breakfast Fundraiser - All you can eat pancakes Saturday, April 9th ~ 8AM to 11AM Tickets $10 Adult & $7 Children under 12 Ticket deadline April 6th.

Levine Senior Center

1050 DeVore Lane | Matthews | 704-846-4654

www.unioncountyweekly.com

Union County Weekly | March 25, 2016 | Page 7

The Weaver, Bennett & Bland

Business Briefs

Batter Up holds ribbon cutting MONROE – Batter Up Hitting & Pitching Facility will celebrate its recent opening with great fanfare as the Union County Chamber of Commerce marks the occasion with a ribbon cutting.

The event takes place March 29 from 2 to 2:30 p.m. at the company, located at 1157 Curtis St..

Visit www.batterupmonroe.com for details.

The company, which officially opened in January, uses batting cages and pitching machines to help baseball and softball players of all ages improve their fundamentals.

The facility has offered camps hosted by former college standouts, such as Jennifer Fenton of Alabama and former Major League All-Star Tony Womack. It’s also hosted a bachelor’s party.

Coto to deliver ‘State of County’ MONROE – County Manager Cindy Coto will present the State of Union County address at a public policy luncheon organized by the Union County Chamber of Commerce.

The event takes place April 5 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at South Piedmont Community College, located at 4209 Old Charlotte Hwy. Registration costs $22 for members through March 30 and $25 after. Cost for nonmembers is $25.

Coto has served as the county’s administrator since November 2010.

Waxhaw resident cooks up coffee confection in competition CHARLOTTE – A Waxhaw resident earned recognition from whipping up a dish in Johnson & Wales University’s annual Culinary Challenge on March 15 at the school’s Charlotte campus.

Students submitted original recipes embracing the Carolinas Cookin' theme and using S&D Coffee and Tea extracts, with ultimately 10 submissions making it through to the final round.

Taylor Hughes, a sophomore from Waxhaw, was part of a duo that won $250 for Best Demo Presentation for “I'll Take My Coffee Black … In a Chocolate Raspberry Torte Cake.” The chocolate coffee cake had a raspberry reduction and silky chocolate-rum ganache.

S&D Coffee and Tea is the nation's largest custom coffee roaster and supplier of iced tea to the foodservice industry.

Jobless rate ticks upward RALEIGH – Union County’s unemployment rate increased from 4.4 percent in December 2015 to 4.8 percent in January 2016, according to the latest figures from the N.C. Department of Commerce.

Some 5,403 people were out of work in January among the 112,536-person labor force.

The unemployment rate was at 4.8 percent in January 2015.

Unemployment rates increased in all of the state’s 100 counties over the past month and decreased for 55 counties over the past year.

CHS names top medical officer CHARLOTTE – Carolinas HealthCare System recently welcomed Dr. Gary Little as vice president and chief medical officer of Carolinas

Medical Center.

Little will partner with Dr. Eugene Christian, chief medical officer of Carolinas Medical Center-Mercy, to oversee medical staff interactions and initiatives.

Since 2009, Little has served as medical director for George Washington University Hospital.

“I am inspired to join a large, integrated healthcare system that is aspirational in its goal of becoming a leader in the transformation of healthcare delivery – not only in the U.S., but in the world,” Little said.

Eye center moving to Waverly CHARLOTTE – Horizon Eye Care announced plans to close its Arboretum office and relocate to Waverly, a 90-acre project under development at Providence Road and Providence Country Club Drive.

The Arboretum location won’t close until the 8,300-square-foot office opens in Waverly’s second 22,000-square-foot medical building at 11835 Southmore Drive.

Kathy Murray, chief operating officer for Horizon Eye Care, said the move helps the firm better serve its expanding patient base. It will offer convenient hours, as well as an optical and contact lens department.

“This will be a full-service, multi-specialty site that eventually will have seven doctors,” Murray said.

The new building will be next to Novant Waverly’s urgent care and family healthcare practices.

Three legal tips to protect your business

by Matthew Villmer Contributor

No business owner plans to be on the receiving end of a lawsuit, and scrambling to protect your business after a lawsuit is filed is often too late. Here are three tips to protect your business from legal trouble.

First, whether you run fruit stand on the weekends or a large manufacturing company, make sure you form a formal business entity, like an LLC or a corporation. Creating one of these entities serves a crucial role: protecting your personal finances and property from creditors and lawsuits.

Without an LLC or other similar entity, a disgruntled employee who sues your company will likely be able to take your home, your personal car, or the money in your retirement funds or savings accounts to satisfy any judgment. The simple act of properly creating a business entity shields your personal assets from these types of collection efforts.

Second, a business deal formed through just a handshake is fine—that is, until there’s a future disagreement over the deal.

It’s incredibly important to put all of your agreements in writing. And before you say, “I don’t want or need all that legal mumbo jumbo,” let me agree with you. There’s a huge issue in our society with “over-lawyering” transactions, but, putting just a few important terms down on a piece of paper can save you from a lawsuit.

For every business transaction, make sure

to have in writing at least the following: the parties’ names, the services or products being purchased, the price and payment terms, and signatures and a date. Documenting these simple items can ensure there aren’t any future misunderstandings, and with any complex contract, you should seek experienced legal counsel.

Third, what do seasonal workers, independent contractors, and full-time employees have in common? They all need to sign an employment agreement that protects your business from potential lawsuits, and it gives both you and your workers a written outline of your expectations.

In addition to outlining number of hours worked, pay, benefits, and other terms, a well-crafted agreement can be used to prevent unfair competition. A reasonable non-compete clause can keep your employees from opening a competing business by stealing your clients or contacts, and a confidentiality clause can prevent employees from spilling the beans about your proprietary business practices.

Matthew Villmer is a business and civil litigation attorney at Weaver, Bennett & Bland, P.A. Contact Matthew at Weaver, Bennett & Bland, P.A. at (704) 844-1400.

The information contained in this article is general in nature and not to be taken as legal advice nor to establish an attorney-client relationship between the reader and Matthew Villmer or the law firm of Weaver, Bennett & Bland, P.A.

New firms form in county Registered agents filed the following corporations with the N.C. Secretary of State from March 11 to 17: Indian Trail • AIM Allstars LLC – Roxanne Learmont, 1110 Technology Drive. 28079 • Fountains of Freedom Properties LLC – Fountains of Freedom Properties LLC, 1006 Houndscroft Road.

• JB Clontz Transport LLC – Joel Clontz, 116 Independence Drive. 28079 • Jump In The Trail LLC – Tyesha Bolden, 4111 Regency Drive.

Marvin • Arya Hotels Inc. – Virat Kamdar, 1036 Senubike Drive.

• Immunocarolina LLC – Roopen Patel, 124 Orchard Hill Court.

Other • Crossroads Wrecker Service LLC – D. Propst, 1111 Austin Chaney Road, Wingate.

• Heights Trucking LLC – Sheena Polk, 212 Glencroft Drive, Wingate.

• Turf Services and Landscape LLC – Matthew Jefferson, 631 Morgan Place, Marshville.

Waxhaw • Carolina Clean Water LLC – Teresa McVey, 112 Southcliff Drive.

• My Carolina Baby LLC – Charles Humphries, 6315 Howie Mine Church Road.

• Nuevo Amanecer Inc. – Sandra Machuca, 108 Southcliff Drive.

• Swiftley Corporation – Emmanuel Uqwuoke, 726 Lingfield Lane.

• Tiger Ventures Inc. – Chavanne Scott, 1909 Madeira Circle.

AT T O R N E Y S AT L AW

A FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM for BUSINESSES & INDIVIDUALS

In need of legal advice?

We get results.

196 N. Trade Street Matthews, NC 28105 704-844-1400

t #VTJOFTT -BX t $JWJM -JUJHBUJPO t %JWPSDF 'BNJMZ -BX "EPQUJPOT t &TUBUF 1MBOOJOH t &TUBUF "ENJOJTUSBUJPO t 1FSTPOBM *OKVSZ t $PNNFSDJBM 3FBM &TUBUF

www.unioncountyweekly.com

Page 8 | March 25, 2016 | Union County Weekly

CMPD Animal Care & Control

Orphaned Animals Available for Ad❤ption Name: Pogo ID: A1099962 Breed Mix: Pit Bull Age: 2 years Weight: 36 lbs

Sex: Neutered Male Date of Arrival: 12/30/15 (Stray) Vaccinations: Has all required vaccinations. Has been microchipped.

Pogo came to the shelter on December 20th. He was extremely malnourished and suffered from significant hair loss. With much love and care from the shelter staff and his former foster home, Pogo has gained weight and his skin continues to clear up nicely. Pogo is a sweet, cuddly little fellow--- social and affectionate. At 36 lbs he is a great small size for a pit mix. He appears to be kennel trained and walks on leash nicely. And those eyes!!!! Pogo loves to play with toys and will gladly retrieve toys over and over again.

He also loves to play tug and is a total clown when he shakes his toy back and forth and throws it in the air. Pogo has gotten along with other dogs here at the shelter and would be a great dog for a family with older kids. VIP: Only $10 to adopt!

POGO

CMPD Animal Care & Control also holds an adoption event the first Saturday of each month at the SouthPark Mall located at 4400 Sharon Road Name: Pumpkin ID: A1096401 Breed Mix: Shorthair Age: 8 months Weight: 6 lbs

Sex: Neutered Male Date of Arrival: 9/30/15 (Stray) Vaccinations: Has all required vaccinations.

Has been microchipped.

This is a playful, funny boy who seeks attention with his meows, sticking his paws out of the cage, and rolling on his back. He is fine with being scratched on his shoulders while in the cage, and loves to bat toys around, and really wants to be social. He can get over stimulated with a lot of activity so he would do best in a home with kids over 10. VIP: Only $10 to adopt!

PUMPKIN

8315 Byrum Drive / animals.cmpd.org ADOPTION FEES RANGE FROM $63 TO $103

Are you a nanny, babysitter, or daycare?

Reach busy parents all over Union County for as low as $12 per week in our Summer Service Guide!

Plus, an additional 10% off to run at least 4 times!

Contact Brent for details, by phone at (704) 849-2261 or by email at brent@carolinaweeklynewspapers.com

Dash for Down Syndrome raises $49K Staff Report

The annual 3-2-1 Dash for Down Syndrome 5K, held March 19 at Blakeney Professional Center, raised more than $49,000 for Down syndrome educational programs, such as Together in Education, a partnership between the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Charlotte and area school systems to maximize education for students with Down syndrome. More than 1,000 participants helped surpass the organization's $45,000 goal.

Funds raised at the dash also will support the LuMind Research Down Syndrome Foundation, an organization that supports cognitive Down syndrome research.

Photos courtesy of SnookySmiles Photography

www.unioncountyweekly.com

Who’s Bad:

The The Ultimate Ultimate Michael Michael Jackson Jackson Tribute Tribute Band Band

Emily Minor

Union County Weekly | March 25, 2016 | Page 9

Hip Hip Pocket Pocket

Poor Boy Revival

The Catalinas

Image /MeetMeDowntown

/OnMainInMonroe

www.HistoricDowntownMonroe.org

www.unioncountyweekly.com

Page 10 | March 25, 2016 | Union County Weekly

Health& Wellness

2016

As the largest newspaper group covering southern Mecklenburg and Union counties, there’s no better medium to get your message in front of our 120,000 verified and affluent readers than by advertising in 4 of our most popular issues of the year.

Each of our 2016 Health & Wellness issues will be packed with hyper-local stories covering the latest trends in healthcare, powerful feature-stories of courageous battles and efforts of local organizations to raise awareness for the many great causes and needs in our community.

CONTENT FOCUSED ISSUES

April 22 July 29 Oct. 7

C G Circulation: 17,000 Readership: 38,475

Crime Blotter The Union County Sheriff’s Office reported the following incidents March 11 to 17: Indian Trail Alcohol/drugs • 4100 block of Hunters Trail Drive: Possession marijuana up to half ounce and drug paraphernalia. March 11 • 1000 block of Loudoun Road: Simple possession of schedule VI controlled substance and drug paraphernalia. March 11 • 2000 block of Brick Yard Road: Possession marijuana up to half ounce. March 12 Building/Home Break-In • 3000 block of Proverbs Court: $60 Hydrocodone stolen from home. March 13 Fraud • 2000 block of Clover Hill Road: Identity theft of personal ID numbers. March 16 • Wells Fargo, 6680 Old Monroe Road: Obtaining property by false pretenses. March 17 Other • Sun Valley High School, 5211 Old Charlotte Hwy.: Weapon on school property. March 11 • 6200 block of Rockwell Drive: Harassing phone call.

March 15 • 6300 block of Houndscroft Road: Harassing phone call. March 14 • Antioch Elementary School, 3101 Antioch Church Road: Sex offender on premise. March 14 Property Damage • 3000 block of Shalford Lane: Vandalism to trees.

March 11 • 5800 block of West U.S. 74: Hit and run leaving scene.

March 12 • 5000 block of Windcrest Way: $15 damage to fencing. March 11 • 1000 block of Canopy Drive: Injury to personal property. March 13 Property Theft • Market Express, 6732 Old Monroe Road: $15 food/ drink stolen from store. March 17 • CVS pharmacy, 4300 Old Monroe Road: Hygiene and candy products stolen from store. March 17 Robberies • Subway, 308 Unionville-Indian Trail Road: $190 stolen in robbery with a dangerous weapon. March 11 Vehicle Break-Ins • 13700 block of East Independence Boulevard: $15 money, $20 leather wallet and debit/credit cards. March 14 • 1900 block of Tower Industrial Drive: $700 laptop, $800 tablet, $100 book bag and $200 wireless air card.

March 15 • 5600 block of Burning Ridge Drive: $40 vehicle road kit. March 16 Waxhaw Alcohol/drugs

The Weekly

Restaurant Scores The Union County Health Department inspected the following dining locations from March 14 to 20.

Charlotte Media Group

Circulation: 24,000 Readership: 54,675

The Weekly

Circulation: 13,000 Readership: 26,325

Call (704) 849-2261 or e-mail adsales@carolinaweeklynewspapers.com

Lowest Scores: • Cici’s Pizza, 1951 Dickerson Blvd., suite A, 28110 – 87 Violations included: Uncovered employee drinks on preparation table during active preparation; build-up/ growth in tea urn nozzle; multiple foods held at improper temperatures; times are not documented for pizzas; lettuce mixture and cooked pasta on salad bar held for six hours; lemon cleaner stored in bottle labeled as sanitizer; saltine crackers stored on the floor; multiple wiping cloths being stored out of sanitizer solution; cup without handle down in flour; scoops with handle touching food in croutons and salt; and general cleaning needed.

All Scores: 28173 • City Tavern, 701 W. South Main St. – 91 • The Club at Longview, 8801 Longview Club Drive – 99 • G.R.I.T.S. Home Cookin’, 7909 Lancaster Hwy. – 94

• 7100 block of McCain Boulevard: Underage drinking.

March 17 Burning buildings • 7500 block of New Town Road: Burning of home.

March 12 Fraud • 8300 block of South Providence Road: Identity theft.

March 17 • 200 block of Tyndale Court: Obtaining property by false pretenses. March 17 Other • 1300 block of Vaux Hall Lane: Domestic criminal trespass. March 17 Property Theft • 7100 block of McCain Boulevard: $750 44 Ruger, $400 Cobray 9mm and $750 270 rifle stolen from home.

March 16 Weddington Alcohol/drugs • 3900 block of Weddington-Matthews Road: Possession of drug paraphernalia. March 17 Wesley Chapel Property Theft • Target, 6350 Weddington Road: $715.87 Nicorette Gum stolen from store. March 14 • Petsmart, 6420 Weddington Road: $308.97 dog food and $275 shopping cart stolen from store. March 14 • 3900 block of Wesley Chapel Road: $3,000 fourwheeler and $1,500 4x8 tilt trailer stolen from home.

March 17 The Stallings Police Department reported the following incidents March 7 to 13: Alcohol/Drugs • 2000 block of Redwood Drive: Driving while impaired. March 9 • 2000 block of Redwood Drive: Driving while impaired. March 9 Building/Home Break-Ins • 4000 block of Pleasant Plains Road: Breaking and entering. March 13 Fraud • 12900 block of East Independence Boulevard: Obtaining property by false pretenses. March 7 • 1200 block of Kingsford Court: Identity theft. March 7 • 4700 block of Stevens Mill Road: Obtaining property by false pretenses. March 9 Other • 1000 block of Tabard Lane: Simple assault. March 8 • 13500 block of East Independence Boulevard: Obstruction of justice. March 9 Property Damage • 200 block of Lakewood Drive: Injury to personal property. March 9 • 14000 block of East Independence Boulevard: Injury to personal property. March 9 Property Theft • 1200 block of Millwright Lane: Larceny of motor vehicle parts. March 8 • 900 block of Morningstar Lane: Larceny of a firearm.

March 11 Vehicle Break-Ins • 12800 block of East Independence Boulevard: Break-in/theft from motor vehicle. March 12

• Rippington’s, 109 W. South Main St. – 97 • Stack’s Kitchen, 1315 N. Broome St. – 94.5 • Trattoria Antica, 3909 Providence Road, suite A – 98.5 28104 • Brooklyn Pizza Parlor, 6400 Weddington Monroe Road, suite A – 97 • Greco Fresh Grille, 6400 Weddington Monroe Road, suite G – 96.5 • Rock Store Express, 13801 Providence Road – 96 28079 • McDonald’s, 6501 Old Monroe Road – 97 • Starbucks, 6701 Old Charlotte Hwy., suite A – 98 28110 • Cici’s Pizza, 1951 Dickerson Blvd., suite A – 87 • Gus’ Family Restaurant, 1627 Walkup Ave. – 98.5 • Jud’s, 1603 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 98 • Mayfair Seafood, 2568 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 95 • Monterrey Restaurante Mexicano, 1006 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 91 • Napoli Italian Restaurant, 2263 W. Roosevelt Blvd.

– 98.5 • Popeyes, 1302 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 95 • Taqureia Morella, 1664 W. Franklin St. – 95 28112 • Stone Table Express, 109 S. Main St. – 96

www.unioncountyweekly.com

Union County Weekly | March 25, 2016 | Page 11

Easter in Union County Staff Report

Several towns across Union County, including Indian Trail, Weddington, Waxhaw and Stallings, celebrate Easter with annual egg hunts. Kids of all ages spent the weekend searching for eggs with treasures inside.

Weddington photos courtesy of the town

MillBridge photos courtesy of MillBridge

Indian Trail photos courtesy of MIke Parks

LAST CHANCE TO JOIN WITH NO JOINING FEE Expires March 31st

• Over 90 Aerobic Classes/Week • 14,000 sq. ft. Fitness Room • Free Weights • Cardio Equipment - Over 110 Pcs. • Weight Machines • Senior Yoga and Water Aerobics • Swim Lessons • Racquetball • Indoor Pool & 2.5 Acre Water Park • Indoor Run/Walk Track • Novant RNs On-Site • Health Screenings • Nutrition/Exercise Coaching • Double Gymnasium • 1/2 Mile Outdoor Walking Course Monroe_Aquatics_Fitness_Center

r /P $POUSBDUT r 'SFF $IJMEDBSF

Ages 3 Months to 9 Years

r 4XJN -FTTPOT

s WWW MONROEAQUATICSANDlTNESSCENTER COM ,OCATED OFF (WY ACROSS THE STREET FROM ,OWE S ON (ANOVER $R IN -ONROE

www.unioncountyweekly.com

Page 12 | March 25, 2016 | Union County Weekly

Education

Board of Ed pushes forward with superintendent search Morris named interim superintendent until new leader selected

by Courtney Schultz courtney@cmgweekly.com

The Union County Board of Education (BOE) took steps this week for its superintendent search, with hopes of finding a new superintendent before the 2016-17 school year.

Board members already jumped ahead of neighboring Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools when the board selected the North Carolina School Board Association (NCSBA) to conduct its search at its March 8 meeting. CMS is still weeding through applications and will interview firms in early April.

During the transition, BOE members announced March 21 the district’s general counsel, Michele Morris, would serve as interim superintendent and John Jones would serve as vice interim superintendent. Pending contract negotiations, Morris and Jones will transition into the new roles after Superintendent Mary Ellis’s retirement June 1, but both Morris and Jones will resume their current roles once a new superintendent takes the helm.

“I am pleased with the decisions we’ve made during this transition,” BOE chair John Collins said. “We wish Dr. Ellis well in her retirement. Mrs. Morris and Dr. Jones are solid leaders and I am confident they will make this a seamless transition.”

UCPS wasted no time moving forward with its search, as Allison Schafer, director of policy/ legal counsel at NCSBA, discussed the search process with the BOE at the March 21 special meeting.

Schafer has conducted about 140 superintendent searches and said she has connections across the country to help carry out the search; however, the NCSBA would not make any recommendations to the board regarding candidates.

The BOE approved accepting applications from superintendent candidates until May 17, but that date was the only specific deadline the board pinned down.

BOE member Jason Marton expressed that he hoped the board could decide on a superintendent finalist by Aug. 15 – a date Schafer laid out in one of two proposed timelines.

Schafer said, naturally, superintendents would fill their roles during school breaks, such as winter break or before or after a school year. She said some superintendents need at least 30 days before they can leave their contracts if they are sitting superintendents, while others might take longer.

Board members finalized an application for pending applicants and have posted the application with NCSBA, along with other job search sites.

Schafer suspects UCPS will receive more than 15 potential applicants, with at least half applying from out of state.

Schafer suspects UCPS will receive nontraditional candidates, as North Carolina does not require superintendents have a superintendent license, but might have other applicable experiences in leadership. She cited Mo Green, former superintendent of Guilford County Schools, as an example of a nontraditional candidate, as he had not previously served as superintendent, but served as general counsel and chief operating officer of CMS before taking the helm.

“It’s not a barrier not to have a superintendent license,” Schafer said.

Schafer said she plans to contact candidates she knows are looking for superintendent positions and to solicit top candidates she feels would fit with UCPS to encourage them to apply.

While UCPS waits for applications, the district also will solicit community and employee input for what qualities they wish to see in a superintendent through two separate surveys.

Community members can take the survey online on the UCPS website, but the survey can only be taken once per computer.

NCSBA will present the raw data to the board, as well as provide a report regarding the

data.

After the application deadline, the search firm will provide an “experience chart,” which categorizes the applicants by experience, but NCSBA will not screen or recommend any specific candidate.

BOE members will receive all applications and will narrow down the candidates for interviews around June 7. Schafer suggested the BOE narrow down to about seven to 10 interview candidates and select about three finalists from the interviewed candidates.

Schafer said superintendent candidates must remain confidential by law and finalists will not be publically announced. Per confidentiality laws, a candidate would have to approve their name be released. Schafer said some finalists might be sitting superintendents and premature knowledge of their departure might cause complications if they aren’t selected by UCPS. BOE members hope to select a new superintendent before the new school year, but no specific deadline for a decision has been set.

UCPS staff will provide up-to-date information regarding the superintendent search on the UCPS website under the “Board of Education” tab.

You put the thermometer where?!?

In our care, you & your pets will not have this reaction!

Come get to know us...

Mention Carolina Weekly for a Complimentary 1st Exam New Clients Only

www.WaxhawAnimalHospital.com

(704)843-2269 601 N. Church St. Waxhaw, NC 28173

Hours Monday-Thursday 7:30am-7:00pm Friday 7:30am-6:00pm Saturday 8:00am-12pm

www.unioncountyweekly.com

Union County Weekly | March 25, 2016 | Page 13

Education

Marvin Ridge welcomes ‘global’ panel to teach life lessons

by Courtney Schultz courtney@cmgweekly.com

WAXHAW – “We want you to be prepared for successful global citizenship,” said Marvin Ridge High School Principal Donna Cook to a room of 800 students. “I want this to be inspiring and informative.”

MRHS’s PTSO and Global and Cultural Arts welcomed four panelists from various walks of life to discuss how their experiences abroad helped shape their careers and their lives.

Marvin Ridge has a strong focus in globalization and integrates global awareness into its classrooms.

“We want to plant the seed that there’s more to the world than just the United States,” said Kimberley Smith, of the PTSO. The “Going Global” symposium welcomed Dr. Francis Robicsek, a renowned surgeon and founder of the International Medical Outreach program of the Carolina HealthCare System, which provides medical equipment to developing countries; Joe Cunningham, director of marketing research at Duke Energy; Kandace Cunningham, senior field manager with nonprofit Education, Travel And Culture, who taught in South Korea without any knowledge of Korean; and Katie Caniglia, founder of nonprofit I Tri For Good.

Panelists talked about their experiences abroad and the lessons they’ve learned from those experiences, as well as offered advice.

Caniglia started her nonprofit after competing in endurance events and wanting to give back

and raise money.

“I was never an athlete,” she said, reflecting on the year she took on almost every endurance race, including Ironman races and marathons.

For an Ironman, she raised $4,000 for Stop Hunger Now, but wanted another options because nonprofits often take a percentage of money raised.

So, she started I Tri For Good, a nonprofit that provides an online fundraising platform for endurance athletes of all abilities to raise money and awareness for their favorite non-profit organizations.

Caniglia encouraged students to find their passions, and extend beyond their comfort zones.

“Don’t dismiss where your mind travels first; see it as an invitation to know more,” she told the students.

The panelists overarching message encouraged students to look beyond the United States to become global citizens, adding that regardless of their career path, learning how to communicate and understand people of different cultures goes a long way.

Robicsek, who was one of the first heart surgeons in Turkey, encouraged students that they didn’t have to be talented at just one skill and should learn to do other things outside their career paths.

“You can be extremely successful when you have fun in your work,” he said.

All panelists encouraged students to find their passions – a common theme among all their stories – and to pursue those dreams despite any hesitations.

Middle schoolers explore future careers

by Courtney Schultz courtney@cmgweekly.com

Union County Public School eighth-graders might have found a passion that sets them on a career path during Students@Work Week.

The Students@Work initiative is a joint venture between the North Carolina Business Committee for Education (NCBCE) and the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (DPI) to expose middle schoolers to career options to understand potential jobs and how their education relates to the working world.

UCPS hosted the Connections Middle School Academy/Career Fair that welcomed high school academies and programs, post-secondary programs and industry partners to discuss their programs and potential job opportunities at interactive booths.

“The whole thing is to help students to get to a job that they can feel passionate about and get interested for classes,” said Allen Plyler, industry coordinator for UCPS career and technical education (CTE).

Although rising freshmen couldn’t join the academies when they move into high school, they learned about the prerequisites and what students would need to enter the academy and future careers.

Plyler said he hears from many businesses that they have a lack of skilled workers in their workforce, so they need schools to help develop skilled workers. CTE has a goal to introduce students to those needed skills and career paths, so they can achieve certifications, two- or four-year degrees or a job after high school.

Courtney Schultz/UCW photo

“We want to get them ready for all of it,” Plyler said. “You don’t just need a four-year degree anymore to get a good job.”

Students@Work focuses on middle school students because its a crucial time for dropout prevention, and it’s also when students prepare for success in high school.

“Students@Work provides a critical bridge between what is needed for future employees to succeed in the workplace and what these students are learning in school,” said NCBCE Chair Bo Somers. “Our businesses take their role in education very seriously and understand that our efforts to inspire today’s students will mean future success for all of North Carolina.”

Plyler hopes students found something they could be passionate about at the career fair and learned what they need to achieve that passion.

www.unioncountyweekly.com

Page 14 | March 25, 2016 | Union County Weekly

Faith

The Weekly

The promise of a politician and the hope of Easter

by Mark Harris mark.harris@charlottefbc.org

This week I had a unique opportunity to hear four of the five presidential candidates from both political parties live at the American-Israeli Political Action Committee convention in Washington, D.C. What was so interesting about this opportunity was that each candidate clearly knew the agenda of the organization hosting the conference, so each addressed the major issues of concern to conference delegates. These issues concerned the relationship between the United States and Israel, as well as broader concerns about Iran and Isis. In other words, each and every candidate made the same promises to the crowd.

This causes me to think about the concept of a promise. Much has already been written about this election cycle and its game-changing qualities. Voter turnout is higher than it has been in years. Driven by the excitement of the young, the disgust of the old, and the fury of the public in general, a 74-year-old socialist and a 69-yearold high rolling businessman are commanding crowds by the thousands with their promises to mold our nation into their individual visions of what constitutes a “great” America. Again, this causes me to think about the nature of a promise.

Can these grand visions be achieved? What about all those promises made to thousands of groups in thousands of meeting halls like the one I attended this week? Do these politicians have the power to keep these promises? Do they even have

the intention of keeping them? Which individual is most likely to actually achieve what he or she promised?

It was interesting to discuss these questions after the meetings with a diverse group of conference delegates.

The concept of promise, or covenant, Mark Harris is central to the Bible and Christian theology. The Hebrew word “berit,” which can be translated “promise” or “covenant,” occurs 280 times in the Old Testament.

The Jewish Virtual Library describes this concept as “the most profound and brilliant concept of the Hebrew world.” The Greek word “diatheke,” also translated covenant, or testament, is used 33 times in the New Testament. The very words “New Testament” could be also rendered “new covenant” or “new promise.”

To promise something is to assure the one promised that the promise-giver will do, give, or arrange something. Our most important cultural promises are sealed with both rhetoric and ritual. The promise of fidelity in marriage is sealed with the costly, serious, and celebratory ritual of a wedding. A couple makes a series of promises surrounded by family and friends who witness the promise and offer support to the couple as they embark on a life together. A certain social

Mesopotamian History and Prehistory Wednesday, April 20th 7:00 p.m. at the Waltonwood Providence Theater

Presented by Dr. Steven Falconer, Professor and Department Chair Department of Anthropology, UNC Charlotte Join us for an archaeological perspective on the roots of ISIS and the modern Middle East. $10 donation encouraged to benefit UNCC Student Programs

Reservations are required as seating is limited.

P ROVIDENCE

(704) 753-7045

pressure is, or should be, inherent in the wedding ritual. Your promise has been sealed, or to use the old-fashioned word, solemnized, and you owe it to society to keep it. This promise is important. It is a big, big deal.

Yet today, even our most sacred promises get cast aside all too easily. Is it any wonder that we have an increasingly cynical society? How can I believe a political candidate’s promise when nothing improves? How can I believe in marriage when half the people who marry divorce? As cynicism has taken hold, sadly, many live without hope and without belief in a God who does keep His promises.

For the believer, Easter is the celebration of the ultimate in God’s promise-keeping: that He would send a Messiah, a Savior, who would suffer, die, and rise the third day, making atonement for our sins and conquering death.

The last acts of Jesus on earth were to make promises. Before His crucifixion, he promised His disciples that if He went away, He would make a way for them to be where He was. On the cross, He promised a thief paradise. After His resurrection He promised that there would be power given from God to follow and serve Him. Before His ascension He promised to be with His followers always, even to the end of the age. He is the groom that is every-faithful, the leader who never disappoints. He is the way, the truth, and the life. Easter reminds us that He is able to fulfill all that He has promised, today, tomorrow, and forever.

Faith Briefs

Ministry Development Services to host Rev. Roy Oswald May 17 MATTHEWS – Nonprofit Ministry Development Services will host Christian author and teacher Rev. Roy Oswold during an “Emotional Intelligence” workshop May 17 for pastors and church leaders. Registration must be completed by April 17.

The workshop is part of the organization's Resilient Ministry Leadership Development and Effectiveness Workshop Series. The class will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall at Mt. Harmony Baptist Church, located at 2817 Mount Harmony Church Road. Cost is $150, which includes lunch and materials.

Register online at www.ministryds.org.

Wingate Women’s Choir to perform at FBC Monroe MONROE – Wingate University Women’s Choir will hold a performance April 3, a Sunday, during morning worship services. The choir will present special music throughout the service.

The public is encouraged to attend.

The church also will hold a youth Canada mission team fundraising night at Panera Bread, located at 14035 E. Independence Expressway on April 7, a Thursday, from 4 to 8 p.m. Guests should bring a flyer, available in the church office, when dining and a portion of the proceeds will help the mission team.

First Baptist Church Monroe is located at 109 W. Morrow Ave.

Church Directory Advertise your church

HERE!

Angela.Burrow@singhmail.com

Contact us to learn more.

11945 Providence Road, Charlotte, NC 28277 www.Waltonwood.com www.facebook.com/waltonwoodseniorliving

704-849-2261

www.unioncountyweekly.com

The Weekly

Calendar March

24 Wild Journals

Children 9 to 12 years old can create a free unique journal to celebrate artistic freedom. The event is while supplies last.

4 p.m.; Monroe Library, 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe

25 Community Blood Drive

The Community Blood Center of the Carolinas will provide a free ticket voucher for all donors. CBCC has donation centers in Charlotte, Concord, Gastonia, Hickory and Greensboro.

Call 704-972-4700 or go to www.cbcc.us to make an appointment.

2 to 6 p.m.; Sun Valley 14, 6449 Old Monroe Road, Indian Trail

26

Author Jerry Adcock Book Signing

Author Jerry Adcock will sign his new novel, “The Suns of August.” Adcock grew up in Wadesboro and uses his hometown as inspiration for his novels.

The book is available on Amazon for $19.95 and $4.99 on Kindle, and Adcock will have copies available at the signing.

10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; The Book Lady, 3513 W. Hwy 74, Monroe

26 Intro to Coding

Participants can join the gurus of the coding school Tech Talent South to receive a free crash course on coding and how to use innovative interfaces and microcomputers, such as Raspberry Pi, Arduino and Makey Makey. All materials are while supplies last.

Noon to 5 p.m.; Windows on Tryon, 301 N. Tryon St., Charlotte

Businesses 28 Why are Successful The South Piedmont Community College Small Business Center will present a free seminar to reveal common traits that successful small businesses possess.

This seminar is designed for individuals thinking of opening a new business, as well as existing entrepreneurs who seek the inside secrets of how to make their business better.

Contact Lisa Rolan at 704-993-2424 or lrolan@ spcc.edu for more information or register at www. ncsbc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=480360010.

6 to 9 p.m.; South Piedmont Community College Small Business Center, 4209 Old Charlotte Hwy., Monroe

29 Nutrition 101

YMCA members and nonmembers will receive basic nutrition information at this free event. Participants can sign up online at ymcacharlotte.org or at the sales and service desk. Space is limited.

6 to 7 p.m.; Siskey Family YMCA, 3127 Weddington Road, Matthews

Break Movie: ‘The 30 Spring Emperor’s New Groove’ All ages are welcome to watch the Disney movie that tells the story of vain and cocky Emperor Kuzco, who is magically transformed into a llama

Union County Weekly | March 25, 2016 | Page 15 after firing his suspicious administrator, Yzma.

2 p.m.; Monroe Library, 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe

30

Family Game Day

All ages can come and enjoy board games with other families. No registration is required.

3:30 to 5:30 p.m.; Union West Regional Library, 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail

Break 31 Spring Movie: ‘Inside Out’ All ages can enjoy this PIXAR movie that shares the heartfelt story about growing up and learning how to handle emotions. This movie is rated PG. 3:30 p.m.; Union West Regional Library, 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail

April

2

Cmbdl!Eph!Bqqsfdjbujpo!Ebz!'!Cmbdl!Eph!Xbml qsftfout;

ÓQbxt!jo!uif!QbslÔ Tbuvsebz-!Bqsjm!3-!3127 21bn.3qn Sbjo!ps!Tijof Qjofwjmmf!Mblf!Qbsl-!Qjofwjmmf-!OD

Author David Cross Book Signing

David Cross will sign copies of his book, “Finding Freedom,” which discusses “dive discontentment” and the journey to finding your purpose.

Contact Michelle Whitman at 405-4585642 for more information.

1 to 3 p.m.; Mama’s Coffee House, 716 Main St., Pineville

4

Utilizing Social Media to Grow Small Business

The South Piedmont Community College Small Business Center will present a free seminar to help small business owners learn tips about when, where and how to network.

Attendees will discover local, regional and state resources to help with planning, managing and financing a small business.

Contact Lisa Rolan at 704-993-2424 for more information or register at www.ncsbc. net/workshop.aspx?ekey=480360011.

6 to 9 p.m.; South Piedmont Community College Small Business Center, 4209 Old Charlotte Hwy., Monroe

6

Walking Wednesdays

To help Mecklenburg County “get moving,” the Siskey Family YMCA will welcome members and nonmembers to participate in a free hourlong walk each Wednesday, starting April 6.

Contact Jennifer Dodson at 704-716-4258 or jennifer.dodson@ymcacharlotte.org for more information.

10:30 a.m.; Siskey Family YMCA, 3127 Weddington Road, Matthews

6

Connecting Business Vendor Fair

Companies interested in pursuing business opportunities in Union County, local municipalities and schools can attend the vendor fair.

The fair is a networking opportunity to allow businesses to meet with procurement agents from Union County, the city of Monroe, Union County Public Schools, South Piedmont Community College, the town of Indian Trail, town of Stallings, town of Wingate and town of Waxhaw.

An e-procurement workshop also will be held to learn how to become an e-procurement vendor.

Admission is free and a light breakfast and lunch will be served.

Visit tinyurl.com/VendorFair2016 for more information and to register.

8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.; South Piedmont Community College, 4209 Old Charlotte Hwy., Monroe

FREE Family Event with over 150 vendors, kids playground, demonstrations, dog rescue groups, food trucks and live entertainment.

Special guests: • Meet & Greet with Author, Fred Levy • Caution! Blind Driver on stage • Magician Bryan Saint • Aerial CLT Dog Walk around lake at noon

www.facebook.com/ BlackDogAppreciationDayBlackDogWalk

C G Charlotte Media Group

www.unioncountyweekly.com

Page 16 | March 25, 2016 | Union County Weekly

Union County Weekly’s

Sports

2016 boys’ swimming Super Team swimmer of the year Jeffrey Murray Marvin Ridge

Peter Dwyer Marvin Ridge

Curtis Wiltsey Weddington

Marvin Ridge junior Peter Dwyer was integral to the Mavericks success this season. He was the state runner-up in the 100-yard butterfly, finishing it in 50.41 seconds. Dwyer earned all-conference and all-county honors.

Curtis Wiltsey was stellar in his second campaign with the Warriors. He finished runner-up at regionals and placed third in the 200-yard freestyle at states, first at regionals and runner-up at states in the 500-yard freestyle, runner-up in the 200-yard individual medley and in the 100-yard butterfly at conference. He made the all-conference team.

Adam Fisher Marvin Ridge

Dillon Gasparek Weddington

Marvin Ridge junior Adam Fisher gave the Mavs quite the lift this season. Fisher swam the third leg of Marvin Ridge’s state champion 400-yard freestyle relay team. He earned all-conference and all-county honors.

Murray, a junior, was dominant in the water this season. He won the state championship in the 200-yard freestyle, completing the race in one minute and 42.23 seconds. Murray made the all-conference and all-county teams, and was named Southern Carolinas Conference Swimmer of the Year.

Coach of the Year Melissa King-Pierce Marvin Ridge

Weddington senior Dillon Gasparek made the most of his final year with the Warriors. He swam legs for three of Weddington’s relay teams at states. Gasparek won the 50-yard freestyle, and finished runner-up in the 100-yard freestyle at the Southern Carolinas Conference meet.

Nate Utesch Marvin Ridge

Jay Austin Piedmont

Utesch made a significant splash of success in his third season competing at the high school level. Utesch swam the second leg of Marvin Ridge’s state champion 400-yard freestyle relay team. He made the all-conference and allcounty teams.

Austin, who was named team MVP, won the 200yard individual medley at conference, and finished runner-up at regionals and fourth at states in the event. He also won the 100-yard backstroke at conference, and placed fourth at regionals and ninth at states in the event. He earned all-conference honors.

Second Team JT Morehead Weddington Dalton Stier Sun Valley Lee Belk Piedmont Brice Helms Piedmont Chandler Parker Piedmont Conner Charrette Marvin Ridge Charlie Rothenberger Marvin Ridge Mario Erotokritou Marvin Ridge Drew Swoope Marvin Ridge John Demeraski Union Academy

Gage Mayer Cuthbertson Cuthbertson sophomore Gage Mayer played a significant role for the Cavaliers. Mayer, who was named team MVP, set school records in the 50yard freestyle, 100-yard freestyle, 200-yard individual medley, 100-yard backstroke and 100yard breaststroke. He earned all-conference and all-region honors.

Marvin Ridge boys lacrosse rebuilding, but still a contender

by Ben Doster ben@cmgweekly.com

Don’t sleep on Marvin Ridge’s boys’ lacrosse team. The Mavericks stand at a suspect 2-3 (1-0 Conference 12) with a rigorous slate of opponents left on their schedule, including dates with two of the area’s premier teams – Weddington and Charlotte Catholic.

The talent to compete at a high level is there, but it’s going to take time for it to grow and develop.

“Even when we were competing for state championships, that wasn’t what we said was our goal,” Marvin Ridge coach John Dodd said. “Some people think that’s what you do, but I believe you got to come together as a team, learn how to compete and play at your best level and everything else will take of itself if you do that.

“We didn’t even talk last year among ourselves about getting back to and winning the state championship. That wasn’t something that we talked about. We talked about being a team and playing our best and improving every day.”

Dodd said a team can’t prevent injuries or control the level of talent it has, but it can control the attitude and effort it practices and plays with. The last four seasons, Marvin Ridge has been at its best when it matters most – in the playoffs. That’s what Dodd and his team are shooting for once again.

Marvin Ridge, which has made two consecutive state championship appearances, lost eight of its 10 starters to graduation, and

Photo courtesy of Tory Cherry

senior goalie James Marino to injury. Senior captain Cam Porta and junior Jeff Palombella lead the attack for the Mavs, and are the lone returning starters.

“He’s (Porta) one of the best in the state (at faceoffs), but everybody is gunning for him,” Dodd said. “That’s to be expected, but he’s still doing quite well in that area. We’re developing. We’re inexperienced at every other position.”

Competition breeds success, and cultivates talent and depth.

Dodd is using that to his advantage, as he works to build this team into a contender for a conference title and possibly something even

more significant than that.

He still has players competing for starting spots, and is in no rush to set his lineup in stone.

Sophomores Cam Renner and Zach Kenley have been solid in the midfield for the Mavs. As they develop along with the rest of Marvin Ridge’s strong sophomore class, the Mavericks ceiling will rise. This doesn’t just bode well for this season; it makes for a bright future in the years to come.

“We have great support from our administration and parents, and the kids are working very hard,” Dodd said. “We had some ups and downs, but we’re optimistic we’re going to be right up there competing at the end of the season and throughout the season. It’s going to be tough. We’ve got tough competition.”

Weddington, which returns a talented group of veterans, will likely be Marvin Ridge’s greatest obstacle in its quest for another conference title.

“I would think that in the conference that we would be the two teams that would be favored,” Dodd said.

Cuthbertson also is much improved, and should challenge the Mavericks and Warriors for league supremacy.

Opponents better get their shots in on the Mavs now, while they’re figuring things out as a young team. Marvin Ridge should be a different team, an improved team full of seasoned and experienced players, who are playing their best ball, once the playoffs arrive.

www.unioncountyweekly.com

Union County Weekly | March 25, 2016 | Page 17

Sports

Cavalier soccer looks to repeat success under new coach

by Ben Doster ben@cmgweekly.com

Cuthbertson girls’ soccer team (4-1-2) wasted no time jumping into season, starting their campaign with seven road games.

It hasn’t been easy, but it’s prepared them for the rigors of traveling and playing in hostile environments, which will serve them well as they get into Southern Carolinas Conference play and into the state playoffs.

“We’re a bit road weary, but it will help us,” Cuthbertson coach Kevin Flynn said. “We have to learn how to deal with that, so it definitely helps us.”

The Cavs first home game came just this week, when it hosted Union Academy (3-3-2) – a team fresh off a state semifinal appearance.

Cuthbertson also has faced the challenge of a coaching change from Jeff Paciolla to Flynn, who also is the boys’ varsity coach. Flynn takes the helm after Paciolla left to take a job in Florida.

The Cavaliers lost six players – some to graduation, some to other sports and some to academy soccer. The most significant loss was forward Courtney Walker, who was the Union County Weekly’s Player of the Year after scoring 39 goals last season.

But life goes on, and the Cavs aren’t wallowing in the adversity of their coaching change and departures. Instead, they’re competing at a high level, and should once again be a force in the Southern Carolinas and beyond.

Ben Doster/UCW photo

A third semifinal appearance in the state playoffs might be a bit lofty for this crowd, but Cuthbertson isn’t going to let outsiders dictate to it what it can and cannot accomplish.

Flynn said the expectation for Cuthbertson is that it’s always going to compete.

Fortunately for Flynn and the girls, familiarity shouldn’t be an issue. It’s not like they’re starting from scratch and getting to know one another, because he served as Paciolla’s assistant coach before he took the reins this spring.

“Jeff, he did a great job last year,” Flynn said.

“He did a good job of bringing the girls together to compete for a common goal. He’s a great coach, reads the game very well, is able to make adjustments in the game and he’s certainly missed.”

Flynn said he approaches coaching the girls

differently than he does the guys.

“They’re different, so you have to treat them differently,” Flynn said. “There are certain things you can say and do with guys that you might not be able to with girls and vice versa.”

Flynn said the girls are coming together as a team, despite all of the challenges they have faced.

They are starting to understand one another and learn what their strengths and weaknesses are.

“I hope we can continue to keep playing well like we have been, and be a close team and have fun and enjoy it,” former coach’s daughter and senior goalie Taylor Paciolla said.

The Cavaliers have several skilled players, who excel in several facets of the game. Passing is one of the many strongpoints of this team, which gives Flynn confidence moving forward.

Cuthbertson also is strong defensively. The

Home Service Directory CLASSIC

F EstimREE ates!

Home Repair & Remodeling Ceramic Tile - Wallpaper Repairs to Roof & Carpet Paint - Minor Electrical & Plumbing Flooring - Carpentry - Bathrooms AND MORE!

704-560-5299

Licensed & Insured

CONCRETE WORK s s s ). '/$ 7% 42534 s s s

Stamped Concrete • Decorative Concrete Driveways Basements • Carports • Patios • Sidewalks Concrete Repair • Slabs • Block and Brick Work Renovations • Roofing • Room Additions • Decks

38 Years of Experience

s 3%26).' 5.)/. #/5.49 s To advertise, email randi@carolinaweeklynewspapers.com or call 704-849-2261

THE HANDY MAN $RYWALL s 0AINTING s $ECKS s 7INDOWS s $OORS &RAMING s 2OOlNG s 'UTTERS s 3IDING 7ATER $AMAGE !LL 4YPES OF &LOORING 0LUMBING s %LECTRICAL s (OUSE #LEANING s 'UTTER #LEANING

Call

No Job Too Small Call Mitch

r 3FNPEFMJOH r 3FQBJST r 8BUFS 5SFBUNFOU r 8BUFS )FBUFST r /FX $POTUSVDUJPO r 3FBTPOBCMF 3BUFT r /FX 'BVDFUT 'JYUVSFT

core of the team is a strong backline anchored

by Paciolla, a Catawba signee, and junior center back Rilee Seering. She’s arguably one of the best defenders in the conference, if not the state.

“I like working with our back four and communicating with our team,” Seering said. “We’re very close with each other. It’s easy to communicate. During games we’re very vocal. It helps us keep games under control.”

The Cavaliers aren’t lighting up the scoreboard, but they are denying opponents opportunities to score.

“We have to find ways to score goals,” Flynn said. “We scored a lot of goals last year, and this year we’re finding it hard to. If we’re to compete at the end of the season we have to find ways to do that.”

Flynn added he is still trying to figure out which players give Cuthbertson the best opportunity to score and who fits in at the midfield positions. But he does have at least one stalwart he can depend on in junior captain Sarah Moll, who can play midfielder and forward. Junior Aimee Duty has switched from defender to midfield, and is thriving in her new role.

Moll said the friendship on the team extends past the soccer field; it’s not uncommon to find them together on weekends, which should eventually translate to the scoreboard.

That friendship will help the Cavaliers as they get deeper into the season, especially once they reach the playoffs.

Call Anytime!

Jerry Dunlap (Dunlap Brothers) Jerry@dunlapconcrete.com www.dunlapconcrete.com

980-622-7833

Lic. NC & SC & Insured Over 30 years experience

&ULLY )NSURED s 9EARS %XPERIENCE s 3ENIOR $ISCOUNT

8" IXk`e^

704-254-5381

A-I-P

Design/Build Contractors Full Service Contractors

• Additions • Kitchens • Baths • House Restoration • Custom Homes • Handicapped Accessibility

CRAFT CUSTOM FENCE

EXPERIENCE TO HANDLE ANY PROBLEM

JAMIE CRAFT

Richard Simmons 704-458-7619 rrsimmons01@gmail.com ageinginplace.com

Quality, Integrity & Communication Owner

All Types of Fences & Gates 704.821.3984/Matthews, NC craftcustomfence@gmail.com Wood, Aluminum, Vinyl WWW.CRAFTCUSTOMFENCE.NET

www.unioncountyweekly.com

Page 18 | March 25, 2016 | Union County Weekly

Home Service Directory

s 3%26).' 5.)/. #/5.49 s To advertise, email adsales@carolinaweeklynewspapers.com or call 704-849-2261

Affordable Electrical Contractor RELIABLE INSTALLATIONS & REPAIRS WE BEAT MOST ELECTRICAL ESTIMATES LOWEST COST — HIGHEST QUALITY RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

NEW CONSTRUCTION

ADDITIONS & REMODELING

CEILING FANS & BATH FANS

ADD & REPLACE RECEPTACLES

LANDSCAPE & SECURITY LIGHTS

GARAGE & OUTSIDE BUILDINGS

SERVICE PANEL UPGRADES

CALL SOLO ELECTRIC Licensed and Insured

Spring Home Improvement

DeMARZO

704-622-0654

&2%% %34)-!4%3 s ).352%$

Your Home Exterior Specialists Storm Damage Experts s 2OOF 2EPLACEMENT 2EPAIRS s 7INDOW 2EPLACEMENT s (ARDIE 0LANK 6INYL 3IDING s 'UTTER 3YSTEMS s )NTERIOR %XTERIOR 0AINTING s &RONT 3CREENED )N 0ORCHES

HOME REPAIRS & IMPROVEMENTS Experienced s Insured s Reliable

4ONY $E-ARZO

s %,%#42)#!, s #%2!-)# 4),% s +)4#(%. "!4( 2%./6!4)/.

s 0!).4).' s 2/4 2%0!)2 s 0,5-").' s &,//2).'

2EPAIR 2EPLACEMENT OF s 2OOlNG s 3IDING s 'UTTERS s $ECK 0ATIO 2EPAIR 0AINT s #ARPENTRY s 2OTTEN 7OOD 2EPAIR

Over 15 years experience | All work is guaranteed

County’s 980-253-9496 Union 704-776-4250

CALL ANYTIME FOR FREE ESTIMATES

Real Estate 1 #– Remodeling AGENT Roofing – Concrete

See Page 18 Experience Is The Best Teacher

s MCTOOLMANSERVICES GMAIL COM WWW MCTOOLMAN COM Roof to Floor and SO MUCH MORE...

Union County’s #1

Why David Upchurch ?

www.randstreetco.com Call (704) 375 3933 www.

Discount Pricing & Free Estimates!!

DavidUpchurch .com

*Flexible Commissions *1 Day Listing Agreements *Guaranteed Sale Program *Sells 10 X’s more homes than the average agent *#1 Real Estate AGENT in Union County *Proven Marketing Plan *Trains Other Agents

#1 Per CMLS Total Volume in 2015

RooďŹ ng

3 Tap Architecture Flat roofs Wood repair

Driveways & walks Concrete Asphalt Sidewalks Stamped concrete

Additions

Decking Screen Rooms Property re-hab K & B updates

Job size doesn’t matter!!

BBB Member & Insured

cmccrae@randstreetco.com

Real Estate AGENT

Just Interview Me!

704-216-1143

#1 Per CMLS Total Volume in 2015

www.DavidUpchurch.com

Don’t Spend $4000 or $5000 to Change Your Existing Tub Into a Walk-In Shower!

R

Recent transformation in Myrtle Beach

We can transform your existing tub into a walk-in shower. $1295 to $1495 Call 910-894-3116 or 704-609-7341 www.tubcut.com Starting a t $

3

25/Cut

FREE MOWINGS!

No Gimmicks - No Strings Attached!

All New Customers Get 3 FREE Mowings This Season!

FREE ESTIMATES! Text or Call TODAY!

704-985-2227

Proudly serving all Charlotte neighborhoods

Fully Insured & Bonded – Free Estimates

704.527.5151

www.carolinawindowcompany.com

LaDam Landscaping A Professional Cut at a Home Owners Price

Serving Union County & Surrounding areas

Spring is around the corner!

Call now for FREE Estimate!

- Lawn Maintenance - Landscape Design email: Ladamlandscaping@aol.com - Irrigation / Fertilization - Aeration & Seeding - Landscape Lighting - Clean-ups Licensed & Insured / - Mulch / Pine Needle Installation Residential & Commercial - References Available Upon Request

704-320-0152

STUMP GRINDING 8;B@EJ

RE

BEFO

AFTE

FINANCING AVAILABLE

Stump Grinding

and TREE

SERVICE

0ROMPT 0ROFESSIONAL 3ERVICE s ,OWER 0RICES !CCESS 4HRU 3MALL 'ATES s "USH 2OOTS

ogadkins@bellsouth.net /PEN -ONDAY 3ATURDAY s

Ĺ„ ¤ZRR i ; L ¤L S;S2 Ĺ„ ¤ZRR i ; L ¸LZZi Ăąui;ff;S2Äľ Ĉ ‹;S2Äľ S ÂŁz,S2 Ĺ„ ¸zLLÂŒ ;Smzi S ZS Ĺ„ Ă‘ †S ¤ i Ĺ„ Ă­ m; Su; L S ¤ZRR i ; L

C G Advertise Charlotte Media Group

Your Business Here For Service Directory advertising information e-mail servicedirectory@carolinaweeklynewspapers.com or call 704-849-2261

www.unioncountyweekly.com

Union County Weekly | March 25, 2016 | Page 19

Carolina Weekly Classifieds Network

To advertise, visit www.carolinaweeklynewspapers.com

s #LASSIlEDS ARE ADVERTISED IN 3OUTH #HARLOTTE 7EEKLY 5NION #OUNTY 7EEKLY AND -ATTHEWS -INT (ILL 7EEKLY s Vehicles for sale

TOP CASH FOR CARS, Call Now For An Instant Offer. Top Dollar Paid, Any Car/Truck, Any Condition. Running or Not. Free Pick-up/Tow. 1-800-761-9396

drywall repair and paint, all types of flooring, total home remodels, and so much more. 20 years of expertise.

Contact us for a free consultation and quote.

704-807-5949 or 862-266-3633. prestigerenovation.rs@gmail.com

FINANCIAL

Beware of loan fraud. Please check with the Better Business Bureau or Consumer Protection Agency before sending any money to any loan company.

SERVICES

Garage Sale

GARAGE SALE – Saturday, 4/2/16, beginning at 7:00am. 1529 Golden Rain Drive, Matthews, NC. Household items, clothing, toys, and furniture. If it rains, the sale will be on 4/9/16.

For Sale

ONE MAUSOLEUM CRYPT FOR SALE – Sunset Memory Gardens on Lawyers Road in Mint Hill. $3000 or best offer. Call (803) 802-5167 or (704) 968-0181.

Help wanted

Charlotte based contractor has immediate need for an Estimator/Project Manager for Water Treatment Plant construction for projects in NC/ SC. Requirements include a Civil Engineering or Construction Management degree. Work consists of approximately 3/4 office and 1/4 on-site construction with some travel required.

Non-smoking office. Contact Julie Linn at 704283-7551 ext. 241 or send qualifications via email at julie@dellinger-inc.com. Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

Hiring 35 Professional Caregivers at Home Instead Senior Care. Attend a JOB FAIR on March 29, 2016, 10 am – 3 pm at 19700 Catawba Ave Suite F, Cornelius, NC 28031. RSVP 704-3440801. Be a part of a team that changes lives.

Training provided, ongoing education and growth opportunities. Hiring all shifts, including nights and weekends. HomeInsteadCharlotte.com. 032516 Drivers: Regional & OTR. New Pay Package for Company & O/OP’s. Excellent Home Time & Benefits. Newer Trucks. Lease Purchase, Sign and Drive. CDL-A. Deborah: 855-204-6535 Employment – Drivers Experienced OTR Driver: 53’ van run from WI to PA to NC. Flexible home time. 99% no touch.

Top pay, vacatioin, 410K, health insurance.

Requires a Class A CDL, 2 years OTR experience With good MRV. References.

Call Ruth/Mike 1-800-558-2664 or Visit ttitrucking.com Drivers: CDL-A 1yr. Excellent Family Medical Ins. Guaranteed Weekend Home Time. Earn $65,000 + Monthly Bonuses. Absolutely No-Touch. 888406-9046 032516

PART-TIME NEWSPAPER DRIVERS NEEDED Candidates must have a clean driving record, proof of auto insurance and be able to lift 50-75 lbs. Additionally, the ideal candidate can work Thursday, Friday, or both and can make a long-term commitment to grow their workload and earnings.

For more information, please contact: Brent Epling brent@carolinaweeklynewspapers.com

between the Mint Hill Masonic Lodge and the Harris Teeter at Brighton Park. $100 REWARD. (704) 906-0061.

HERO MILES - to find out more about how you can help our service members, veterans and their families in their time of need, visit the Fisher House website at www.fisherhouse.org

Discount Painters—Affordable painting services! $80.00 per room. Our services include painting, sheet rock, installation, popcorn removal and repair, wallpaper removal, pressure washing, handyman, light plumbing and electrical. We appreciate our clients. FREE ESTIMATES: (704)995-9206.

Cleaning woman looking for job cleaning house, office, or apartment. I have 18 years of experience and good references. Call Martina at (704) 8935028 or (516) 554-3960.

Flooring Experts: tile, showers, backsplash, carpet.

Commercial & Residential hardwood, laminate, vinyl vct. Insurance and 100% warranty free estimates. Call Francisco Escobar with Anything Custom Construction 704 977-7859.

Acorn Stairlifts. The AFFORDABLE solution to your stairs! **Limited time -$250 Off Your Stairlift Purchase!**Buy Direct & SAVE. Please call 1-800211-9233 for FREE DVD and brochure.

AVIATION GRADS WORKWITH JETBLUE, BOEING, DELTA, AND OTHERS- START HERE WITH HANDS ON TRAINING FOR FAA CERTIFICATION. FINANCIAL AID IF QUALIFIED. CALL AVIATION INSTITUTE OF MAINTENANCE 1-866-724-5403

SONIA E. PEREZ, CPA, PC Your taxes are my business 704-200-6659 Sonia.Perez.CPA.PC@gmail.com Free 10-minute phone consultation

SWITCH & SAVE EVENT from DirecTV! Packages *PRESTIGE RENOVATION* starting at $19.99/mo. Free 3-Months of HBO, Thinking of building or renovating? Prestige starz, SHOWTIME & CINEMAX FREE GENIE HD/ Renovation are Charlotte’s own, family operated Miscellaneous The New York Times Syndication Sales Corporation DVR Upgrade! 2015 NFL Sunday Ticket Included renovation professionals. Just some of the services 620 Eighth Avenue, New York, N.Y.Corporation 10018 with Select Packages. Some exclusions apply New York Times Syndication Sales we offer are: kitchen and bath remodels,The decks, Information 620For Eighth Avenue, New1-800-972-3550 10018 Call for details 1-800-421-2049 WALLET LOST in Call: Mint HillYork, area, N.Y. somewhere complete outdoor living packages, additions,

For Monday, March 21, 2016 For Release Information Call: 1-800-972-3550 For Release Tuesday, March 15, 2016

ACROSS ACROSSafter 1 President Tyler powder 1 Soapy 5mineral Quantities: Abbr.

59Vague Contradicted 9 Ohno on skates 15 Microwave, e.g.

14 ruling 16Valhalla’s Excess spending god

by Congress 15 17Malarial Change fever over time who wrote 16 Gore 18“Lincoln” “Othello” villain 17 a work 19Detonates Opposite of weapon in the 20underworld?

Doesn’t just throw away 19 about 21Came Cut with a knife 20 Construct 22 Enter gradually 21 the 24Raises New York’s price of some Washington pastries?

Square ___ 23 all means!”

25“By Canon camera brand 24 Pep rally shout 26Candidate’s ___ horse 27 (surprise quest candidate) 28 Adjust, as a 27watch Job for a sleuth 29 Swings wildly 30 Junkyard jalopies

Crossword Crossword

31 Blowgun ammunition 34 Clocks trainees a fabled race 32for Letters between rematch?

O and S 38 of Islam 35Branch Young deer 39 allPan” lead girl to 36They “Peter Rome, it’s said 37 Yes, to Yves 40 With 43-Down, 38Apple President-elect, C.E.O. e.g. beginning in 392011 Touched in the head some 41 Where need 40athletes Like sneakers guards and corsets 42 42Something Earth-friendly calamine lotion prefix alleviates 43 Stealing 43 Cuts up little 45bloodsuckers?

Nominates 46 Genalong ___ 45 Get (boomer’s child) 47 Camera 47attachment, President after Roosevelt often 48 Blow a ___ 48 Landing spot(lose for one’s temper) Santa 49Over Prefixthere, with 50 dynamic quaintly 50Poke Mini-pie 51

ANSWERTO TOPREVIOUS PREVIOUS PUZZLE PUZZLE ANSWER FW RE OM ME T I DF OA LZ BI AV KO ER Y MT AO JW AE IN TO SS YY BP IA TR SK YE S L A EK LE SD A L MA AV CI RA OS S M CO AI AT VE AC H T YB RA AN G P O P SB I OO AD RE SG S W IC MA SM UD IE TN EY SJ TU UD NG E DW RA NP K A AB RU IL A A IM DO GI ON LS F CA LD AR PE P AD CE CC A KD IE M E SO TD IO LN E B IU TT CT PR EO TU ET R I SS OM HE SY TE YT EI S T HA OC OT

E L RO RM AO BW TR AE P RC R DA DA IR ON E EK A S LF GM OU OE UR OL L D S

AS RT EA N L IA ED TD OR E AS SS PB CA AR

NL DA II OV TM RE TE KR YA ST GD E RE ND IS O T T TO M N YT EO T D LE EE OR VA LS EL

SB NO OX OS TE T N O IS RP O SR ET XY

51 “___ well” (George 54 Puts up with Washington’s one’s family? last words) 58 Vulgar 53 Legal wrong 60 Parts of hearts 56 Tell 61 Scrutinizes the 58 underworld?

Swear to 59 Choruscrookafter 64 Cops’ “Who wants ice catching cream?” hoax 65 61 Beringer Black, to a bard Vineyards’ 62 county Former latenight host Jay 66 Saved for later 63 Used a rotary 67 Equivocate phone 68 II turning 64 W.W. Baltimore’s ___ point McHenry 69 65 Vittles Roman road 66 Gossipy types DOWN 67 Chuck 1 Maguire “The 68 Presidentofafter Great Nixon Gatsby” 2 Be nuts about 3 Citrus supply at DOWN bar 1 aComposure 42 Network for President’s market monitors workplace 53 “I told ya!”

Senator or representative 6 Wine or cheese 4 concern End of one’s rope? speaker 7 Bantu southern 5 of Takes to a Africa higher court 86 Sounds Grindingfrom teeth 7 pounds Cal ___, Dean’s 9 James “East ofCameron Eden” megahit of role 8 2009 Terrier type 109 Transport for St. ___ (dog) William Kidd or 10 Jack Adam’s madam Sparrow 11 Skunk’s Jeweler’sdefense 11 magnifying 12 Hold glassout 13 12 Exuberant “Casablanca” flamenco woman cries 18 Emphasize 13 For all time 22 part in a 14 Takes 2-Down fixture 23 bee Quitter’s words

Edited by Will Shortz Edited by Will Shortz 1 1 15

2 2

3 3

4

5 4

16

14 18

9 8

17

26 24

13

11

12

26

13

32 31

33 32

34 33

52

52 53

24 28

27

30 28

31 29

30

36

37

36

37

38

39

40 41

40

42 42

43

46 45

47 46

44

47

49 48

50

49

56 60

41

45 44

43

55 56

14

22

27 25

38 39

54 55

12

19

23 21

35 35

11 10

16

22

29

10 9

20

18

23

59 60

8 7

15

20 25

53 54

7 6

19

17 21

34

6 5

No. 0215 No. 0209

57

61

63 64

65

66 67

68

61

48 51 51

50

57

58 62

63

58 59 62

64

65 66

67

68 69

PUZZLE BY J. KAHN PUZZLE

BY DAVID LYNN LEMPEL

26 Breakfast alcove 25 Mount Etna emission 28 Coif creator 26 Moor 30 Shoemaker’s 28 tool Purposeful misdirection 31 Like a magician’s 29 hands Musketeers and blind mice 32 President’s 31 option Stylish for an unwanted bill 32 Glitch 33 Participant 33 Bratty retortat a presidential press 34 conference, Clip or snip say 35 Teeny(of) bit 34 Clear

36 as anin 36 Float, Big name aroma trucks 38 for G. W. 37 Home Unoccupied Bush 41 Stop the flow of 39 Daniel who 43 wrote See 40-Across “Robinson 44 Crusoe” Unwelcome sign 41 Comic strip cry for latecomers of dismay 46 Proper medicine 44 Famous amount London department store 49 Diabolical sort 45 Mom and dad 51 Southern region 48 Swamp critters of ancient Palestine 49 Slanted

50 52Off-limits Skilled 53 One-ups 52 Zorro’s weapon 54 Shindig 53 Neat 55 Diminutive suffix 54 “Garfield” dog 56 Unlikely to get rain color 55 Horse 57 Long-distance 57 Liberals, swimmerwith Diana “the” 59 Tool with teeth 58 in Arabic 62A, U.S. asbestos regulator 60 Anti-trafficking 63org.

“You don’t ___!”

Online subscriptions: Today’s Today’s puzzle puzzle and andmore morethan than7,000 7,000past past Online subscriptions: puzzles, nytimes.com/crosswords ($39.95 ($39.95aayear). year). puzzles, nytimes.com/crosswords Read about and and comment comment on on each each puzzle: puzzle:nytimes.com/wordplay. nytimes.com/wordplay.

Read about Crosswords for young solvers: nytimes.com/studentcrosswords Crosswords for young solvers: nytimes.com/studentcrosswords. .

www.unioncountyweekly.com

Page 20 | March 25, 2016 | Union County Weekly

8Vg 8gj^hZ">c

6:00PM-8:00PM 2nd Friday of the Month

May 13

April 8

European Cars

rtWalk

/A Race Cars w

June 10

Mustangs

July 8

Motorcycles

August 12 Jeeps

October 14

September 9

Corvettes w/ArtWalk

Trucks

Presented by /MeetMeDowntown

Scan for details!

/OnMainInMonroe

www.HistoricDowntownMonroe.org