The Regional Weekly April, 3, 2020 by Charlotte Media Group

Inside: Baby found hidden in leaves • Page 2A

THE REGIONAL

A SPECIAL EDITION COVERING MATTHEWS, MINT HILL, WAXHAW, INDIAN TRAIL AND SOUTH CHARLOTTE Friday, April 3, 2020 • Vol. 13 • No. 14

ABOUT US P.O. BOX 1104 Matthews, NC 28106 (704) 849-2261 justin@cmgweekly.com

Health official urges caution after first COVID-19 death any additional information about the patient. “This unfortunate situation is a reminder to all of us how serious this particular pandemic is across our country and in our community,” she said. Mecklenburg County reported 418 cases of COVID-19 on March 31. That's 28% of the 1,498 cases reported in North Carolina. The county reported 127 cases on March 24, when it

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CHARLOTTE – Mecklenburg County urged residents to take its stay-at-home order seriously after reporting its first COVID-19-related death on March 29. Public Health Director Gibbie Harris said a 60-yearold resident with “significant” underlying health conditions was hospitalized at the time of death. Harris did not release

announced a 21-day stay-athome order starting two days later. Harris said during a March 29 press conference that people were crowding county parks, making it difficult to practice social distancing. Since then, the county has closed sports courts. Deputy Chief Jeff Estes said the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department and other see CORONAVIRUS, Page 5A

This map shows the distribution of COVID-19 cases reported to Mecklenburg County Public Health by zip code, as of March 28. The darkest blue color indicates an area where 10 or more cases have been reported. Map courtesy of Mecklenburg County

STAYING CONNECTED

Atrium to use sewn masks for patients

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CHARLOTTE – Waltonwood Cotswold may be restricting visitors as a coronavirus precaution, but that doesn't mean residents in the senior living community have to be closed off from family and friends. The community purchased extra iPads and tablets for residents to communicate with loved ones through Facetime or Skype. “Keeping residents engaged with their families was one of the most important

CHARLOTTE – A group of seamstresses from Lancaster, S.C., recently donated 4,000 sewn fabric face masks to Atrium Health and is now ramping up efforts, hoping to deliver 40,000 more to the hospital network over the next three weeks. The masks will initially be used for patients with flu-like symptoms who visit emergency rooms, outpatient facilities and testing centers. The goal is to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and take pressure off the hospital’s supply of personal protective equipment, like the N95 masks health care workers wear to protect themselves from patients with respiratory viruses. “Cloth masks are usually … they’re not fluid resistant, but [they do] act as a protective barrier covering your Neelakanta mouth,” said Dr. Anupama Neelakanta, an infectious disease physician at Atrium Health. “Any aerosols or droplets that come out of your mouth, it definitely helps prevent spread of that.” The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention does not recommend cloth facemasks for health care workers, but Dr. Neelakanta said they could be used as a last resort if there is a surge in demand for N95 masks. She said Atrium Health currently has a strong supply of these masks, but that could

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Residents at Waltonwood Cotswold are all smiles when interacting with loved ones via technology. The senior community bought iPads and tablets so they could stay connected. Photos courtesy of Waltonwood Cotswold

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Senior living community tries to maintain positive environment by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

Mayor Q&A Lyles focuses on city's response, 4A

Stay at home Orders are not open and shut, 1B

Let's eat Listing of restaurants still serving, 2B

Special Olympian shows us that everyone matters by Mara Campolungo Contributor

There is nothing more beautiful and inspiring than seeing someone just being themselves. This past December, Derek “Tank” Schottle, a multi-sport Special Olympian, left his home state of Texas to visit North Carolina. While traveling throughout our community, Tank received many accolades, awards and hugs. One of those honors was being named The Sandbox’s Ordinary Angel of the month. The reason for all this recognition is simple. Tank teaches us how to balance thesignificance of self with the value of others. As an individual living with disabilities, Tank proves we don’t

have to be defined by our outward struggles. We are defined by our inward greatness – our strengths, heart and character. Tank’s heart overflows with unconditional love for everyone he meets. Tank inspires so many, but there is a particular place in his heart for the parents of children with special needs. He credits his own parents for guiding him to becoming the incredible person he is today. He continues to balance self-care and self-love with loving others through encouragement and acts of kindness. This is what Tank wants us all to know: It’s see TANK, Page 2A

Mayors of Concord and Charlotte proclaimed days in December 2019 as Derek “Tank” Schottle Day in honor of the Special Olympics athlete. Adrian Garson/CMG photo

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Goodwill: We're not collecting donations now CHARLOTTE – People have been dropping off donations at Goodwill stores, but the nonprofit's locations are closed, creating extra costs for clean-up. Goodwill shared photos of boxes of donations placed at six locations throughout the Charlotte region, including Concord, Gastonia, Rock Hill and Providence Road in Charlotte. “As much as we love to accept donations to support our mission, we can’t take them right now,” President & CEO Chris Jackson said. “People are dropping things off and it is not only a health hazard - but the cost to clean this up redirects funds away from our mission, which we know is especially important right now as people are losing their jobs. We are asking people to organize their items at home and have them ready to donate when we reopen.”

Woman arrested after baby found hidden in leaves MARSHVILLE – Law enforcement arrested a woman on charges of attempted murder and felony child abuse after finding her newborn baby in a plastic bag and hidden under leaves, according to the Union County Sheriff's Office. The sheriff's office said Casey Marie Thomas, 24, of Marshville, gave birth March 25 at home and believe she hid the baby. A relative later took Thomas to Atrium Health Thomas Union for treatment after noticing the blood. Hospital staff told the sheriff's office that Thomas likely gave birth despite her denials, prompting deputies and a Marshville police officer to a home in the 8600 block of East U.S. 74 where they found the infant, officials said. The child is in custody of social services.

Standoff with police outside CVS ends in death MATTHEWS – A standoff between the Matthews Police Department and a man with a

TANK

EASY ACCESS MEANS EASY LIVING.

(continued from page 1A)

OK to have emotional and physical needs. We can express our needs without shame. We can share our accomplishments without fear. Struggles are often met with even greater possibilities and opportunities for service. We are not alone. Everyone matters. We are loved beyond measure.

Fake news

Klingons transport Earth's toilet paper and other stuff I made up by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

President Donald Trump points at news reporters during White House press conferences and accuses them of reporting fake news. I voluntarily write fake news in honor of April Fools Day, sparing our Commander-in-Chief from mocking me, so he can focus on stopping the coronavirus. I await my Presidential Medal of Freedom.

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INDIAN TRAIL – Business leaders across Union County celebrated the launch of Big Granny's Taxidermy's latest venture – a restaurant serving carryout and curbside tomato sandwiches. Leonard DiCaprio opened the no-frills restaurant in the lobby of his 10-year-old taxidermy firm two days after the governor issued a stay-at-home order to stop the spread of coronavirus. “Our expansion fills an essential need to feed people mouth-watering mater sammiches against the backdrop of some exquisitely stuffed squirrels and beavers,” DiCaprio said. The chamber of commerce says it has seen an explosion of such restaurants opening in offices since the governor ordered non-essential businesses to close.

TikTok star storms out of podcast

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CHARLOTTE – Mint Hill's most followed TikTok star stormed off the set of the popular “Queen City Drink That Day-Old Tea Girl” podcast after being asked if he had been tested for coronavirus. Bubba Joe D'Amelio said he appeared on

handgun inside the CVS at Matthews Township Parkway resulted in a death. Officers responded to the attempted armed robbery at 10 p.m. March 19. They made contact with a man inside with a gun and tried using verbal de-escalation techniques. They learned that remaining store employees had locked themselves in a room away from the man. Officers established a perimeter and activated the Matthews Police Department Special Response Team. Once the team entered the store, they found the man deceased. He was identified as Karreim LaFrank Houser, 25, of Charlotte.

Police: Shooting led to car crashing into building MATTHEWS – The Matthews Police Department is investigating the circumstances behind a vehicle crashing into a building around 6 p.m. March 18 in the Matthews Township Office Park with the driver suffering from a gunshot wound. After the victim was shot, his vehicle traveled through the intersection and was involved in a crash with another vehicle before coming to a stop in the office park, police said. The shooting victim and driver of the other vehicle were transported to the hospital. The shooting victim was identified as Brett Thomas Butler, 34, of Charlotte. He died on March 19. The suspect is described as a Hispanic male standing 5-foot-6 to 5-foot-8, wearing a black T-shirt and blue jeans, and driving a black 2007 Acura TSX with a North Carolina registration plate number of PMX-5683. Contact Detective Danielle Helms at dhelms@matthewsnc.gov or 704-841-6706 with any details.

Matthews man faces meth trafficking charges MATTHEWS – A joint investigation among the Union County Sheriff's Office as well as the Matthews and Waxhaw police departments, led to the seizure of more than 12 ounces of methamphetamine March 24. Christopher Todd Wilson, 46, of Matthews, faces multiple counts of trafficking meth.

Union County woman arrested on drug trafficking charges MONROE – Union County Sheriff's Office detectives seized methamphetamine, heroin, currency and a firearm after observing several drug transactions. They arrested Melody Searsey Fletcher, 44, March 27 on charges of possession of firearm by felon, trafficking in heroin and trafficking in methamphetamine. She remains in the Union County Jail.

Mara Campolungo is co-founder and executive director of The Sandbox and founder of Ordinary Angels. Editor's note: Derek “Tank” Schottle was scheduled to help The Sandbox host its annual golf tournament this month, but the tournament has been rescheduled to Nov. 9 at TPC Piper Glen. Tournament proceeds help The Sandbox provide assistance to families caring for children with life-altering conditions.

the podcast to promote his new YouTube series of instructional TikTok dances that you can cross-promote on Facebook and Instagram to earn Bitcoin. “They started asking me about my group dances and how I wasn't six feet apart from other people,” D'Amelio said. “I got fed up and walked off. It was bull crap, bruh.”

Bubble balls come under fire CHARLOTTE – City council will discuss an ordinance banning personal bubbles of more than four feet in diameter. Inspired by Bubble Soccer, more residents have been wearing inflatable bumper bubble soccer balls when venturing outside of their homes, creating crammed spaces inside grocery stores. “We want to encourage people to adhere to social distancing standards of six feet, but we're seeing people knocking down store displays with excessive bubbles,” one councilwoman said off the record. “You're already insulated by the PVC material, guys.” A couple of joggers have even been bounced into the road and hit by cars. The vote is scheduled for April 6.

Couple met during Zoom conference call CHARLOTTE – Professional yes man Tom Yanks dreaded logging into his daily Zoom meetings until the morning of March 15 when he realized he had more in common with co-worker Rasheeda Wilson than he thought. That morning, Yanks wore a tiger-print tie, while Wilson wore a tiger-print blouse. After some small talk, they realized they both had the same fondness for the Netflix show “Tiger King.” “Our love grew from there,” Yanks said. “Soon, we were Zooming one-on-one for hours.” Yanks has been married for 14 years. His wife doesn't mind. “I'm OK with him having a work wife for now,” she said. “He can't get within six feet of her anyway.”

The Regional Weekly • April 3, 2020 • Page 3A

Paul the Patriot keeps kids energized over break by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

Kensington Elementary School staff visits students on parade route WAXHAW – Terry Vaughn, principal at Kensington Elementary in Waxhaw, rode through students' neighborhoods March 25 alongside the school's mascot to keep spirits up during the break. Some students, like third-grader Lena Alfaro, made signs to show teachers their support. Photos courtesy of Nikki Alfaro and Tobis Timeless Treasures

INDIAN TRAIL – North Carolina schools may be closed until May 15, but Paul the Patriot hasn't been slacking off. Poplin Elementary School's mascot joined Principal Kate Earp in touring nearby neighborhoods of Annandale, Fieldstone and Bonterra on March 19 and Lake Park, Laurel Creek and Oakstone on March 20. The school posted Paul the Patriot's whereabouts beforehand on social media so students could plan to be outside and wave. And if students didn't know in advance, they may have heard Earp announce their arrival via a loudspeaker. “We just needed a way to lift our kids' spirits,” Earp said. “We figured what better way than to bring the Patriot out.” Paul the Patriot has pumped students up on the first day of school, pep rallies and in the car line, but this was the first time the one-year-old mascot has really been off campus and in the community.

Poplin Elementary School Principal Kate Earp and mascot Paul the Patriot saw several students in their ride around the Indian Trail community. Photos courtesy of Beth Medlin

Earp had been sitting at school for a week and wanted to show students that staff was thinking about them and missed them. “It was great to see the students and to do something fun for our Poplin community during this time,” Earp said.

Houlihan: UCPS is committed to staying connected by Andrew Houlihan UCPS Superintendent

In recent weeks, the COVID-19 crisis has upended daily life as we know it. The current school closure, which began March 16 and will now extend to May 15 in Houlihan our state, has caused Union County Public Schools to face unprecedented challenges. It is not lost on me that the effect of this school closure extends far beyond our 41,000-plus students and 5,000plus staff members. School closures are also touching nearly every person in our county, state, nation and world. In these times of uncertainty, circumstances can quickly change day to day, or even hour to hour. It is impossible for anyone to have all of the answers to every question. Even so, we have been in constant communication with local and state health of-

ficials as well as the N.C. Department of Public Instruction to not only receive the latest updates but also share accurate information with parents, students and employees. I am extremely thankful to the Union County Board of Education, Union County Government and local health departments for all of their support and guidance during this time. I am also immensely proud of UCPS staff members’ creativity and determination to make this transition as seamless as possible for families. As soon as we learned of the school closure, our School Nutrition Services team quickly mobilized grab-and-go meal sites to provide free, daily meals to children. With the help of local law enforcement partners and school staff, more than 14,000 meals were distributed during the first week. Additionally, UCPS has received an outpouring of support from community members, businesses and local organizations who

have provided free meals, supplies and other critical resources for our students and families. It is because of these generous donations and support that we are able to remain focused on prioritizing the safety, wellbeing and health of employees and students during this pandemic. As we navigate this school closure, our school system is committed to providing ongoing guidance and education resources to students and parents. Through our EmpowerED Family Portal, we are continuing to connect students across all grade levels with more than 60 free digital texts and resources. On our website, we have also provided more than two dozen optional remote learning opportunities. Additionally, three weeks’ worth of daily supplemental resources have already been provided to students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Middle and high school parents have received information about UCPS’s

phased-in remote learning plan. Additional information will be shared throughout the school closure. From virtual storytime sessions and teacher parades to morning announcements livestreamed through social media, our school administrators and teachers are also proactively taking advantage of virtual platforms to stay connected with their students. The coming weeks and months may be challenging for all of us as we adjust to our “new normal” of daily life. At UCPS, we will rise to the challenge and focus our efforts on continued learning for students and employees as well as the health of our community. As we continue to work with local leaders, businesses and organizations, I am confident in our ability to come together and navigate this unprecedented time together. Andrew Houlihan works as superintendent of Union County Public Schools

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Page 4A • The Regional Weekly • April 3, 2020

Lyles focusing on flattening the curve, reviving the economy by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

CHARLOTTE – Mayor Vi Lyles held a conference call with reporters March 25 to explain the city's response to the spread of COVID-19. Here are some highlights from the conversation. On what the city is doing to offer relief to small businesses Lyles believes the most important thing the city can do is lobby the federal government to pass a stimulus package that includes small businesses. She said the city will evaluate its local funding and determine if there are ways to supplement the federal stimulus package locally to close any gaps. “It's something different, but I think this time we're in is requiring us to do something different,” she said. On keeping morale up for city workers who are telecommuting The city manager sent a letter to employees thanking them for what they are doing to help stop the spread of coronavirus. She mentioned one initiative that involved making sure public safety officers and sanitation workers had the right equipment and tools, as well as hand sanitizer. “People are at home, so we've got to get garbage collected and picked up, but we're working on what we're doing and also a business continuation plan just in case something more urgent comes up,” she said. On what the city is doing to support hospitals Lyles described the availability of respirators, ventilators and masks as a national issue. She said the city is monitoring and working with its federal delegation and the White House to ensure they are supporting Charlotte's efforts. “I think that we all know that we don't have every tool that we'd like,” she said. “We don't have every piece of equipment that we would desire, but we are trying very hard to work at every level to get that material in.” Atrium Health and Novant Health have been engaged in the policy decisions made in Mecklenburg County. She said the city has worked hard to ensure health care workers find the childcare they need or find a place to stay if they can't make it home. On if she has been tested for COVID-19 Lyles has not been tested because she has not had any COVID-19 symptoms, which include fever, dry cough and shortness of breath. “I've been working a lot,” she said. “I might just be a little bit tired, but I don't think I've had any symptom that would actually require testing. I don't want to take a test kit away from someone that really needs it.” On whether she'd like to see city council lower the tax rate “Everything is on the table when it comes to what we have to do to

recover from this,” she said. “A lot of it is going to depend again on the federal stimulus package, but we are going to work really hard.” Lyles said the city can't ignore the economic crisis. She mentioned how one in nine Charlotte workers are employed within the hospitality industry and people were notified quickly that they were laid off. Lyles said leaders will have to look carefully at everything the city is doing, including property taxes, bond referendums and changes to the fund balance. “Everything is on the table as we begin to battle this economic loss,” she said. On how strongly the city should crack down on violators of the stay-at-home order Lyles has been getting a lot of questions from constituents about what jobs are considered essential and how the order is going to be enforced. She tells people to use common sense in determining whether a business is essential. “The order is really to help our city continue to be safe and to not have what is taking place in New York happen here in Charlotte,” she said. “Making the choice to stay open, if at all, is an important one. My hope is that anyone making that decision uses and understands the gravity of that decision and makes it very carefully. This is about us. This is about what we do to help each other.” Lyles explained the police department is going to take a reasonable approach to enforcement, focusing on educating people why it's important to stay at home. She believes residents will understand that. On whether the city should operate buses and light rail given the risk Based on feedback from Atrium Health and Novant Health, Lyles said it is important the city run buses and light rail so people can get to work, especially the health care sector. Lyles said the city is following “very restrictive protocols” on cleaning buses. “We are doing everything in terms of making cleanliness and sanitation the highest priority on our buses as well as protecting our bus drivers with physical barriers,” she said.

On whether the stay-at-home order should have been issued sooner “I think that we are responding to the community need,” Lyles said, crediting Public Health Director Gibbie Harris for doing a great job. “She talked about this and then we implemented it. Our health care systems are giving us information about what they need to be successful in this fight and we are following that. I believe that what we have done is appropriate.”

Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles has spent a lot of time sharing information with federal leaders and mayors of big cities. She'll participate in a Twitter Q&A on coronavirus response at 10 a.m. April 3 using the hashtag #AsktheMayor. Photos courtesy of City of Charlotte

On what will happen with the Republican National Convention The convention is in August. Lyles said that no one really knows what the summer will look like, but the city will follow national and federal guidelines. On whether city departments have been asked to reduce budgets “I don't know of a year that we didn't ask departments how could you do work more efficiently and for a lower cost, but that's the city manager's job, not mine,” she said. “It used to be my job but no longer, and I'm grateful for that.” On if Charlotte is being overshadowed by larger cities or concerned about competing with them for supplies Lyles said it's difficult to think about competition when it comes to the health and welfare of the country. “We are not competing,” she said. “We are trying to collaborate and make things happen. So no, I don't see this as a place where we are in a competition for media exposure. What I see us in is a county where we are trying very hard to meet a national need.” On whether Atrium Health and Novant Health have expressed concerns Lyles said both health care systems are involved in a policy group that talks throughout the day. The hospitals have expressed many of the concerns discussed nationally, such as the need for more equipment and masks. “The overall mission of our healthcare system is to make sure that every patient has an appropriate level of service and we are addressing our needs,” she said. “I would say that those conversations with our policy group are working for us and they are integral to our success for flattening the curve.” On the importance of the stayat-home order The order is important because it reduces the likelihood that anyone who is positive can spread COVID-19.

Lyles shared she has been catching up with family and her grandchildren on Skype and Facebook instead of in-person visits. “We have been told by our health care professionals that if we can flatten this curve we will have more capacity to treat everyone and that is what we're seeking right now – that capacity for treatment and care,” she said. “If we can flatten the curve, that's important.” On the timing of solutions in addressing financial needs Lyles approaches the city's response with a few principles, including working hard to communicate openly with residents, making daily assessments and operating based on them, and reevaluating things every 30 days to see what could have been done better. Leaders also ask themselves what can Charlotte do that Seattle didn't. “If you're asking me about the financing and how the city is going to operate, I expect there's going to be a large conversation about that,” she said. “But we need to do it as we get closer to getting through this flattening of the curve and seeing what our new normal is going to be like and deal with it there.” On using city-owned space for hospital capacity Lyles said the question has come up before as New York is outfitting a large conference center as a hospital, but the health care systems here haven't expressed that need. “Right now, the health care sys-

tems are working on the idea that they have the infrastructure to separate the virus cases from the remaining parts of the hospital,” she said. “As long as they are capable of doing that, we'll continue that. But as we know, this is a very fluid situation.” On enforcement of stay-athome order affecting immigrants “We believe that we are respectful, that we are inclusive and we encourage the diversity in our community,” Lyles said. “What I would expect is that any group of people will be treated the same. Our enforcement is going to be done through education, dialogue and asking for voluntary cooperation. That is what we're doing for everyone.” On whether she'll address the community more in the coming days “I will be doing as much as is needed so we can maintain what I call the connection between community,” she said. “We are in a situation now where stay at home is creating a physical separation, but what we need right now is the ability to work together to make sure that everyone has a part of this plan that we can flatten the curve.” Lyles said she has been working since early March with federal officials, including the White House, as well as mayors from the state's largest cities, to share information. She wants everyone to follow the public health director's lead so that we can get through this crisis as a city of people who care deeply.

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The Regional Weekly • April 3, 2020 • Page 5A

This chart shows total COVID-19 cases reported to Mecklenburg County Public Health by date, as of March 28. Chart courtesy of Mecklenburg County

CORONAVIRUS

Cases by zip code

(continued from page 1A)

law enforcement agencies are approaching enforcement with a focus on education. CMPD received "1,200 or so" complaints regarding the stay-at-home order or mass gatherings, Estes said March 27. “We know this is hard, but we really encourage voluntary compliance,” Mecklenburg County Manager Dena Diorio said. “We know that a higher level of voluntary compliance we get, the quicker we can get through this.” Union County has reported 44 cases. Though the county did not issue a stay-athome order, Gov. Roy Cooper has ordered one that spans until April 29. Union County has launched a video campaign featuring the likes of Atrium Health Union President Mike Lutes, Congressman Dan Bishop and retired Carolina Panthers defensive end Mike Rucker urging neighbors to stay at home. Wavering attitudes on stats Mecklenburg County's most recent release of demographic data was on March 28. Among the 303 reported cases, 21.2% were hospitalized with another 3.6% under investigation. Hospitalization rates among those 60 and older occurred at a rate of one in every two people. About 21% of total cases have been released from isolation. “Our hospitals are seeing increased severity in illness and the number of individuals requiring admission and all of our hospitals are seeing individuals needing to be on ventilators at this point,” Harris said. The percentage of cases by age group shows 41.3% were between ages 20 and 39, followed by 34% ages 40 to 59, 24.1% ages 60-plus and 0.7% under age 20. The percentage of cases among races includes 43.9% black, 42.2% white, 7% Hispanic, 2.6% Asian, less than 1% Alaskan Native/American Indian and 4% not reported. Mecklenburg County also released the number of cases by zip code, something leaders initially didn't want to do, then did, then didn't, then did. Initially, the county withheld the locations of cases to emphasize

Mecklenburg County Cases as of March 28 28105: 10 or more 28134: 1-5 28209: 10 or more 28210: 10 or more 28211: 6-9 28226: 6-9 28227: 6-9 28270: 6-9 28277: 10 or more Union County Cases as of March 31 28079: 6 or more 28103: Zero 28104: 6 or more 28110: 1-3 28112: 4-5 28173: 6 or more 28174: Zero

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the seriousness to the region. “The reason we did not put the map out last week is because a number of individuals were making decisions about where to go shop, where to spend their time based on the zip codes that have the least amount of numbers,” Harris said. “That was not the intended use of that map and unfortunately we continue to have individuals infected in those zip codes regardless of whether they have been tested or not. We did not want individuals making decisions based on that map.” However, Harris said people find the map useful and the county wants to be transparent with its data. “We 'll be using the map to help inform people, but people need to pay attention to the fact that COVID-19 is in our community,” Harris said. “We do have community spread and you need to assume that you're going to be exposed if you are out and about in our community.” Want to learn more? Residents in Mecklenburg and Union counties should visit their respective county's website daily to ensure they are getting updated safety information and warnings. Anyone who thinks they need testing should call ahead or get virtually screened.

MASKS (continued from page 1A)

change over time. “We are not in any sort of shortages, but in anticipation of the surge, we are just making sure that we are prepared and that we don’t run out … that kind of scenario,” Dr. Neelakanta said. “It’s hard to say what happens to the supply chain, but I do suspect that since we do think that this epidemic is going to peak in a few weeks, that we will have increased demand for this.” Over the past several weeks, Dr. Neelakanta has been working with nurses, key leaders throughout Atrium Health and the seamstresses, known as the Tree Tops Needlecrafters. Together, they’ve created a template for a sewn mask that meets CDC guidelines and can be used by medical workers after all existing face mask options are used. The Tree Tops Needlecrafters have sewn many items for Atrium Health over the years, including pediatric pillowcases, seatbelt covers for cancer patients and isolette covers for infants in the neonatal intensive care unit. Kathleen Sharp, a Lean Sensei with Atrium Health’s Performance Excellence Center, lives in the same neighborhood where the sewing group resides. She first came in contact with them when they transformed her wedding dress into dozens of “angel gowns.” Angel gowns are donated wedding dresses that are remade into baby burial gowns. They can

Kathleen Sharp, a Lean Sensei with Atrium Health’s Performance Excellence Center, shows an example of a sewn face mask during a video conference with members of the media on March 31. Karie Simmons/CMG photo

also be used for baptisms or family pictures. The angel gowns created out of Sharp’s dress were donated to Levine Children’s Hospital and Atrium Health Pineville in December. Once news spread of a nationwide shortage of masks due to the coronavirus, Sharp decided to pitch the Tree Top Needlecrafters their next project. The group said yes right away and Atrium Health got to work choosing the materials and a template. Two days after getting the go-head, Sharp said the Tree Top Needlecrafters had 800 masks cut out. “This is a fairly small group of ladies, but very committed, and they began sewing that,” she said. “We are now at 700 volunteer seamstresses across three states that are making these masks according to this particular pattern and using this specific fabrication.” The masks are sewn using new cotton fabric and have a pocket inside for a medical-grade filter. Sharp said Electrolux donated 10,000 vacuum cleaner bags made

with HEPA filtration fabric to the cause. “We’re also sewing in washable filtration when we have that available to us,” she said. Once Atrium Health receives the masks, they will go through a decontamination process before being distributed to the community. Sharp said all the masks will be washed using a hospital laundering procedure that involves a specific water temperature and treatment level of detergent. Those interested in making the masks at home need only a basic knowledge of sewing. Sharp said people can even just cut the elastic bands or the pattern if they want to. “This is not limited to professional seamstresses to be able to contribute to this,” Sharp said. Want to help? If you would like to join the Tree Top Needlecrafters along with several other local volunteer sewers, email communitybenefit@atrium health.org for more information.

9120 Willow Ridge Rd. Charlotte, NC 28210 (704) 710-6968 Charlotte-Living.com Senior-Living-Communities.com

Page 6A • The Regional Weekly • April 3, 2020

Corporate donations push COVID-19 Response Fund to $11M CHARLOTTE – Coca-Cola Consolidated announced it is donating $1 million to the COVID-19 Response Fund, a community-wide effort to assist those affected by the coronavirus pandemic. The donation, made through the Coca-Cola Consolidated Charitable Giving Fund, raised the fund total to $11 million in 10 days of fundraising. “It’s important we support the nonprofits helping the individuals who need it the most,” CEO Frank Harrison said. “We all know the effects of this pandemic stretch far beyond those who are sick, and the COVID-19 Response Fund will get assistance to those who need it.” Foundation For The Carolinas and United Way of Central Carolinas launched the fund March 16 to support a range of nonprofits assisting members of the community, particularly those most vulnerable. Donations have ranged from a $2 commitment from an anonymous online donor to $1 million gifts from LendingTree, the City of Charlotte, the Howard R. Levine Foundation, Truist Financial Corporation, Bank

Want to help? The community is urged to donate at www.Help CharMeck.org. Corporations and foundations that wish to donate may contact either Catherine Warfield, senior vice president of philanthropic advancement at the Foundation For The Carolinas, at 704-973-4515 or cwarfield@fftc.org; or Clint Hill, chief development officer at United Way of Central Carolinas, at 704371-6359 or chill@uwcentralcarolinas.org. of America and Lowe’s Home Improvement, with the largest gift from Mecklenburg County totaling $1.3 million. “Charlotte is fortunate to have such a compassionate and responsive corporate sector,” said Michael Marsicano, president and CEO for the Foundation For The Carolinas. “We’ve seen tremendous acts of generosity throughout this campaign, and I cannot thank enough all who have given so far.” Agencies and nonprofits are already feeling the strain to deal with increased needs as the economy tightens, local unemployment rates increase, longer school cancellations cause disruptions and those without insurance face additional challenges

NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF UNION IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE DISTRICT COURT DIVISION RE: DAVID SPRY v. LINDA ARCE TO: LINDA ARCE: TAKE NOTICE that a pleading seeking relief against you has been filed in the above-entitled action by David Spry in the District Court Division of Union County, 400 N. Main, Monroe, North Carolina. The nature of the relief being sought is the Complaint for Absolute Divorce and an Judgment of Absolute Divorce. TAKE NOTICE that you are required to make defense to such pleading, no later than twenty (20) days after the first publication of this notice on 3/27/2020 If you fail to do so, the party seeking service against you will apply to the court for the relief sought. This the 27th of March, 2020. Lindsey A. Easterling, N.C. Bar No.: 48202. Attorney for Plaintiff, Easterling Law, PLLC, 2526 Plantation Center Drive, Suite B, Matthews, NC 28105. Telephone: (980) 272-1365 Fax: (704) 269-6220.

getting the care they need. “Thanks to the generosity of these donors, we can help our nonprofits provide critical relief to thousands of residents already suffering from the impacts of this pandemic,” said Laura Clark, president and CEO of the United Way of Central Carolinas. “The organizations that work with our most vulnerable neighbors are taxed by increased demands due to COVID-19, while also dealing with the limitations this crisis presents.” The Foundation For The Carolinas and United Way of Central Carolinas administer the fund in coordination with the City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County. Visit www.uwcen tralcarolinas.org/grants/COVID for details.

Connecting family via technology is one way in which the senior living community works to create a positive environment. Photo courtesy of Waltonwood Cotswold

CONNECTED (continued from page 1A)

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things we could do,” said Randy LeMaster, regional director of operations for Waltonwood Senior Living communities in North Carolina and Virginia, including Waltonwood Cotswold and Waltonwood Providence. LeMaster said their communities serve families that are highly engaged. Some visit daily. Others visit once or twice a week. So telling them that they could not visit their loved ones proved to be a shock for some. Waltonwood follows protocols from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services as well as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Staff reviews topics such as hand-washing and social distancing. “Education is the most important thing we can do,”

LeMaster said Maintaining connections with loved ones contributes to a positive living environment while reducing the stress associated with the pandemic. Waltonwood Cotswold also keeps life interesting by throwing birthday celebrations for residents. Betty Knox's 99th birthday this month was especially noteworthy as loved ones celebrated in the parking lot while she waved safely from her room. TV crews from WSOC and WCNC were there to report on the unique party. With warming weather, residents can go for walks in the courtyard or plant flowers and herbs in the raised garden beds. Want to know more? For more information about Waltonwood Cotswold, visit www.waltonwood. com/senior-living/nc/char lotte/waltonwood-cotswold/

BRINGING OUR COMMUNITIES TOGETHER

CHARLOTTE MEDIA GROUP publishes your local community newspapers which include the Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly, South Charlotte Weekly, The Weekly Waxhaw and The Indian Trail Weekly. For over 15 years, we have been a direct source of news and information by connecting our readers to local businesses and the community. During this extremely challenging time for all, we are committed to being a direct link for our local small businesses to educate and inform the community of the steps you are currently taking to offer your individual services; whether it be new hours of operation, take-out or drive-through hours, special pricing or specific measures your business has taken in order to offer your services during the Covid-19 crisis. We, too, are a small business and we wouldn’t be doing our job well if we did not do EVERYTHING possible to help support our fellow small business owners during this current time of uncertainty. We would like to help your business reach our readers with your current changes to business operations or with a simple positive message for minimal cost, please contact CHARLOTTE MEDIA GROUP @ 704-849-2261 or email charlotte@cmgweekly.com.

Indian Trail

THE WEEKLY

BY THE UNION COUNTY WEEKLY

1. Book Buyers in Plaza Midwood is still open for walk-in customers. Karie Simmons/CMG photo 2. Usually a cozy place to find books and greet authors, Park Road Books has shifted focus to curbside pickup, online ordering and home delivery as residents are encouraged to stay home. CMG file photo 3. The Book Lady in Monroe is only operating two days a week. CMG file photo

FOR BUSINESS

The Regional Weekly • April 3, 2020 • Page 1B

INSIDE: State senator invites small business owners to provide feedback on how he can help them make payroll, 4B

Not essential? Don't judge a bookstore by its cover Operators find ways to stay open amid stay-at-home order by Karie Simmons karie@cmgweekly.com

Although many businesses throughout the region have closed or adjusted their operations in an attempt to slow the spread of COVID-19 and comply with stay-at-home orders, some bookstores in

Mecklenburg and Union counties remain open. During this time, independent bookstores and big-box retailers are offering limited hours, curbside pickup, online and call-ahead ordering, all of which are allowed under their respective restrictions. “We need bookstores right

now,” said Aimee Kenny, who helps run The Book Lady in Monroe. “Books stimulate your imagination and build your vocabulary. Bookstores keep people calm, and books keep people entertained longer than a two-hour movie. They feed the mind.” On March 24, Mecklenburg

County issued a stay-at-home order from March 26 to April 16. A few days later, Gov. Roy Cooper issued a statewide stayat-home order starting at 5 p.m. March 30 and ending on April 30. Cooper’s order extends Mecklenburg County’s see BOOKS, Page 6B

by Justin Vick

Tony Marciano

justin@cmgweekly.com

Reverend

Remembering the toilet paper shortage of 1974

was in high school when the toilet paper shortage of 1974 struck America. We had just gone through the energy shortage in January where there were gas lines while people waited to fill their tank. There were odd/even days to get gas. The gas lines created confusion. One person thought they got into a gas line. It turned out to be a funeral procession. There were other shortages that began to pop up. As spring came, one late-night comedian joked that the next shortage we’ll have will be toilet paper. Suddenly, people were hoarding toilet paper. Stores had to limit purchases to two rolls per person. June came and life got back to normal. As you know, COVID-19 sparked a toilet paper shortage. I was in a store and watched people fill their carts with two cases of toilet paper. (I think they had two cases because their cart wouldn’t hold three.) By the time I was able to reach the shelves, they were

Tillis talks restoring the economy

Toilet paper was out at this Charlotte-area Harris Teeter, but look on the bright side. At least a few packages of napkins remained. Justin Vick/CMG photo

bare. I was on the phone with my sister who was encouraging me to ask a customer to share one of her two cases of toilet paper. I may practice a lot of Dale Carnegie, but I’m also not stupid. I envisioned the customer telling me off and it not ending well. I went to the store the next day and the shelves were still bare. I stopped at two more stores and there was no toilet paper to be found. Hoarding reminds me of the phrase, “I’ve got mine – go get yours.” It’s not a pretty expression. It’s selfish. It’s not very faithfilled. It says, “I figured out how to get my toilet paper. You’ll have to figure out how to get yours. You’re on your own.”

Jesus challenged us to love our neighbor as our self. What does that look like when we are living through unchartered territory from a global perspective? What does it mean to love our neighbor when we already have 72 rolls of toilet paper at home and are purchasing another 72 rolls, just in case (just in case of what)? During my time scouring stores for toilet paper, I was taken back to one of my favorite Christmas movies, “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Let me take you into the scene. George Bailey and Mary had just gotten see TOILET PAPER, Page 2B

CHARLOTTE – U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC) held a town hall meeting via telephone March 30, five days after supporting the passage of a $2 trillion stimulus Tillis package designed to provide relief to an economy stalled by the spread of coronavirus. Tillis explained how the legislation directs checks up to $1,200 for individuals with income up to $75,000 and checks up to $2,400 for married couples with income up to $150,000. Families get an additional $500 per child. Small businesses are eligible for $350 billion in federally guaranteed loans that provide eight weeks of cash flow assistance. During his town hall, Tillis answered questions related to the potential of a sagging economy and relief for small businesses during his town hall. Questions and answers have been edited for space and clarity. Constituent: Some economists have said we may need twice the stimulus that Congress recently passed. Is this something you're looking at if this continues for months? Tillis: I hope and pray that it doesn't continue for months. What we're going to have to do is look at see TILLIS, Page 4B

Page 2B • The Regional Weekly • April 3, 2020

Regional round-up of restaurants open for business Here's a look at restaurants offering a combination of carryout, curbside pick-up and delivery in the towns of Indian Trail, Matthews, Mint Hill and Waxhaw. We advise you to call in advance to double-check dining options since COVID-19 has become such a fluid situation. This is not an all-inclusive list.

Indian Trail • Cactus Rose: Cafe: Carryout. 704-821-7673 • Cathy's Coffee: Carryout. 704821-7375 • Chokh Di Noodle House: Curbside and delivery. 704-893-0571 • Mia Famiglia Restaurant and Pizzeria: Curbside. 704-882-8882 • Omega Coney Island: Carryout. 704-821-4142 • Sileo's NY Deli: Curbside. 704776-4340 • Taqueria La Unica: Carryout. 704-821-7281 • The Bridge Restaurant: Curbside and delivery. 704-882-5555 • The Trail House: Curbside and delivery. 704-776-4655 • Your GG's Kitchen: Carryout. 980-414-1000

• Five Guys: Carryout and delivery. 704-315-6301 • Genghis Grill: Carryout, curbside and delivery. 704-444-0068 • GoGo Empanadas: Carryout and delivery. 980-245-2686 • Hinson's Drive-In: Carryout. 704847-9506 • Kristopher's Sports Bar & Restaurant: Carryout and delivery. 704-845-6200 • Mac's Speed Shop: Carryout, curbside and delivery. 704-444-0332 • McAlister's Deli: Carryout, curbside and delivery. 704-846-1711 • Metro Diner: Carryout and delivery. 704-802-7871 • Moe's Original BBQ: Carryout and curbside. 704-814-6637 • Outback Steakhouse: Curbside and delivery. 704-845-2222 • Panera Bread: Rapid pickup and delivery. 704-846-4003 • Picadeli's Pub-In-Deli: Carryout and delivery. 704-841-1918 • Pizza Peel: Curbside and delivery. 704-814-0231 • Primavera Pizza: Carryout and delivery. 704-321-0201 • Qdoba: Carryout and delivery. 704-849-8030 • Shane's Rib Shack: Carryout, curbside and delivery. 704-443-2957 • Showmars: Carryout, curbside and delivery. 704-849-9155 • Somi Sushi: Carryout and delivery. 980-245-7024 • South 21: Carryout. 704-844-1004 • Texas Roadhouse: Curbside. 704-814-0285

• Hawthorne's New York Pizza & Bar: Carryout and delivery.704-545-8089 • Jersey Mike's: Carryout and delivery. 980-430-1401 • Mint Hill Rockstore Bar-B-Q: Carryout. 704-545-1227 • Showmars: Carryout, curbside and delivery. 704-545-3946 • Taxco Mexican Grill: Carryout and curbside. 704-573-2232 • Wayback Burgers: Carryout, curbside & delivery. 980-237-0140 • Zaxby's: Drive-thru. 704-5730607

Waxhaw

• 701 Main Restaurant: Curbside. 704-256-1203 • Broome Street Burgers: Carryout, Curbside and delivery. 704-256-1198 • Capricci's True Italian: Carryout. 704-256-5521 • Cork & Ale: Carryout and Curbside. 704-256-7757 • Fox's Pizza Den: Carryout and delivery. 704-843-1439 • Ice Cream and Pizza Works: Curbside and delivery. 704-843-1753 • Mary O'Neills Irish Pub: Carryout and delivery. 704-256-7800 • Maxwell's Tavern: Carryout. 704843-2773 Matthews • Ming Fu: Carryout. 704-843-1006 • Azteca Mexican Restaurant: Car• Moe's Original BBQ: Carryout, ryout and delivery. 704-814-9877 curbside and delivery. 704-243-7427 • Beantown Tavern: Carryout. 704• Moe's Southwest Grill: Curbside 849-2023 and delivery. 704-843-9355 • CharBar No. 7: Curbside to-go. • Provisions Waxhaw: Carryout 704-814-0208 and curbside. 704-256-3642 • Chicken Salad Chick: Curbside • Queens South Bar and Grill: Cardelivery. 980-339-7700 Mint Hill ryout, curbside and delivery. 704• Cracker Barrel: Carryout, curb• Big Guys Pizza: Curbside and de- 256-4626 side and delivery. 704-321-2261 livery. 704-545-1770 • Rosati's Pizza: Carryout, curbside • Deep Sea Seafood Market: Car• Daphne's Bakery: Carryout and and delivery. 980-556-7600 ryout and delivery. 704-849-0029 curbside. 704-573-5100 • South Main Street Barbeque: • East 74 Family Restaurant: Carry• Dunwellz Custom Kitchen: Car- Carryout and delivery. 704-843-5299 out. 704-847-5035 ryout and delivery. 704-545-1505 • Stacks Kitchen: Carryout, curb• El Valle Mexican Restaurant: carThe New York Times Syndication Salesside Corporation • El Valle: Carryout and delivery. and delivery. 704-243-2024 York Times Syndication Sales Corporation ryout and delivery. 704-845-1417 The New 620 Eighth Eighth Avenue, Avenue, New New York, York, N.Y. N.Y. 10018 10018 980-237-9162 • Waxhaw Rock Store BBQ: Carry620 • Fiesta Mexican Cuisine: Carryout For Information Information Call: Call: 1-800-972-3550 1-800-972-3550 • For Happy's Grill: Carryout. 980-224- out, curbside and delivery. 704-243For Release Thursday, August20, 22,2019 2019 and delivery. 704-246-6745 For Release Tuesday, August 7233 2024

Edited by by Will Will Shortz Shortz Edited

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Texas Roadhouse converted its dining rooms to full-service takeout in support of the Great American TakeOut Campaign. The Matthews location is open daily for curbside to-go service and family packs, which allow guests to pick up food without leaving their cars. Orders can be placed online, through the website or app, or by phone. Photos courtesy of Texas Roadhouse

56 51

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TOILET PAPER (continued from page 1B)

married. They are in a taxi heading to the train station when Ernie, the driver sees a run on the Bailey Savings and Loan Bank. George rushes to the bank where he learns Uncle Billy has locked the door. Mr. Potter calls to inquire if they’ve closed the bank. The doors are unlocked, and the people rush in. One person shouts “Potter is paying 50 cents on the dollar. Something is better than nothing.” An older gentleman comes to the teller window and asks for all his money. George asks him how much he really needs and he says, “All $242.” George says it is just a loan. Then an older woman comes

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The Rev. Tony Marciano is the president/CEO of the Charlotte Rescue Mission. Visit www.charlotterescuemis sion.org for details.

CMPD Animal Care & Control

Orphaned Animals Available for Adoption Name: Sparky ID: A1144542 Age: 2 years Weight: 48 lbs Sex: Neutered

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up to the window. I need to tell you, Frank Capra, the director, loved spontaneity in his movies. He doesn’t tell the woman how much to ask for. He leaves it up to her. George asks her how much she needs and she says, “Can I get $17.50?” George reaches across the counter and gives her a kiss. Isn’t that how we should behave in these times? How much do we really need? Is it “all of it” or “$17.50”? It’s the best way to love our neighbors as ourselves. I’ll be back soon. Until then, live well my friend.

SPARKY

Date of Arrival: 2/29/2020 Adoption fee: Free with monetary donation Vaccinations: Has all required vaccinations

likes car rides, took a bath, house trained, moderate leash pulling, needs to learn basic commands, loves to sleep and cuddle. Contact foster parent at jen.lane@doosan.com

8315 Byrum Drive / animals.cmpd.org

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The Regional Weekly • April 3, 2020 • Page 3B

First Round

Thirsty 32

March 20 to 24

March 27 to 31

1 Stacks 1 Stacks

Sweet 16 Edible Eight Final Fork April 3 to 7

April 10 to 14

April 17 to 21

8 Jekyll & Hyde 8 Jekyll & Hyde 5 The Loyalist Market 12 Pizza Peel 12 Pizza Peel

4 Kristopher's 4 Kristopher's

6 Moe's Bar B Que 11 Black Chicken Wine Cellar

April 10 to 14

April 3 to 7

Thirsty 32

First Round

March 27 to 31

March 20 to 24

1 Dunwellz 1 Dunwellz

8 Big Guys Pizza 8 Big Guys Pizza 9 Wayback Burgers 5 Sunrise Restaurant

5 Sunrise Restaurant 5 Sunrise Restaurant

12 Jimmie's Restaurant 4 Big Al's Pub & Grubberia 13 Happy's Grill 13 Happy's Grill

Downtown Matthews

Mint Hill

6 Vintner's Hill

11 Mint Hill Rock Store Bar-B-Q

14 El Valle

3 Beantown Tavern

3 Jakes Good Eats 3 Jakes Good Eats

14 El Valle 14 El Valle Mexican Restaurant 7 Mac's Speed Shop

16 Showmars

1 Dunwellz

Final Fork

9 Grace O'Malleys

6 Moe's Original Bar B Que

April 17 to 21

Road to the

8 Jekyll & Hyde

13 Pepero Asian Market

Final Fork Edible Eight Sweet 16

April 24 to 28

Munch Madness

16 Ming Fu

12 Pizza Peel

Championship

14 Hawthorne's NY Pizza & Bar 7 The Hill Bar & Grill

10 Royal Cafe & Creperie

7 The Hill Bar & Grill 7 The Hill Bar & Grill

10 Royal Cafe & Creperie 2 Sante

2 Sante

10 O'Neil's Pub 2 Stooges Pub & Grub 2 Stooges

2 Sante 15 The Portrait Gallery

15 El Valle

Champion 1 Chicken Salad Chick

1 New Zealand Cafe

1 Chicken Salad Chick 1 Chicken Salad Chick

16 Jonathans

1 New Zealand Cafe

16 Best Wok 8 City BBQ

8 Hinson's Drive-In 9 Bonefish Grill

8 City BBQ

9 Chili's Grill & Bar

9 Bonefish Grill

5 Boardwalk Billy's

5 East 74 Restaurant 5 East 74 12 Mooyah Burgers

5 Boardwalk Billy's

5 East 74

4 Azteca Restaurant 13 Metro Diner

5 Boardwalk Billy's 4 Community Culinary School

4 Azteca

6 Cracker Barrel 11 Que Onda 3 Texas Roadhouse

Sardis

7 Steady Eddy's Pumphouse 10 First Watch 10 First Watch Matthews 2 Kabob-Je

2 Kabob-Je Rotisserie & Grille 2 Kabob-Je

11 Rios Steakhouse

3 Mi Pueblo

No need to fill out the entire bracket. Each week, we'll collect votes for each round until a winner emerges. There are two ways to vote: 1. Email your round favorites to justin@cmgweekly.com. 2. Find photos of each bracket on social media (Facebook or Instagram) and leave a comment with who you want to win. Readers can vote three times each round (once for email, once for Facebook and once for Instagram).

14 Mario's Italian Restaurant

6 Be Em Asian Kitchen 11 Rios Steakhouse

How to vote

3 Texas Roadhouse

4 Community Culinary School 13 The Southern Gourmet

Greater Matthews 3 Texas Roadhouse

11 Que Onda Tacos + Tequila

12 Buffalo Wild Wings

3 Mi Pueblo 14 Crepe Bistro Galleria 7 Famous Toastery 10 Juliana Pizza 10 Juliana Pizza

10 Juliana Pizza 2 Deep Sea Seafood Market

2 Deep Sea Seafood Market 15 Yaki Asia Fresh

15 Hibachi Buffet Sushi & Grill

Who got snubbed? Would you like to file a formal complaint to the Munch Madness: Road to the Final Fork selection committee? Email justin@cmgweekly.com why your favorite restaurant deserved to be on the list or receive a higher seed and we may print responses. Remember, there is no crying in competitive food.

First Round

Thirsty 32

March 20 to 24

March 27 to 31

1 The Bridge Restaurant 16 El Cafetal

1 The Bridge Restaurant

Sweet 16 Edible Eight Final Fork April 3 to 7

April 10 to 14

9 Cactus Rose Café 9 Cactus Rose Café 5 Grapes Wine Bar 5 Grapes Wine Bar 4 Sileo’s NY Deli

12 Omega Coney Island 4 Sileo’s NY Deli 13 Chokh Di Noodle House

Championship

Final Fork Edible Eight Sweet 16

April 24 to 28

April 17 to 21

April 10 to 14

4 Sileo’s NY Deli

Road to the

Final Fork

Indian Trail

6 Your GG’s Kitchen

April 3 to 7

March 27 to 31

March 20 to 24

1 Stone Table

8 Hilltop Fish Fare & Steakhouse 8 Hilltop Fish Fare & Steakhouse

16 Duke's Grill 8 Hilltop Fish Fare & Steakhouse 9 Pepperoni's Pizza 5 Oasis Sandwich Shop

12 Hathaway's Fried Chicken

4 The Smoke Pit 4 The Smoke Pit

13 El Vallarta

Monroe

6 Franklin Court Grille 6 Franklin Court Grille

6 Your GG’s Kitchen

3 Hickory Tavern (Sun Valley)

First Round

1 Stone Table

6 Your GG’s Kitchen 11 Sabor Latin Street Grill

Thirsty 32

Munch Madness 1 The Bridge Restaurant

8 Juke Box Deli and Pub

April 17 to 21

You can also vote for this bracket on Instagram @mmhweekly

Visit the Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly Facebook to cast your votes for this bracket

11 The Skinny Cook

3 Fox's Alley

3 Fox's Alley Bowling Bar & Grill 3 Fox's Alley

14 Athenian Grill 14 Athenian Grill

14 Iron Thunder Saloon

7 Mia Famiglia

10 East Frank 7 Taqueria y Marisqueria los Pepe's 15 Monterrey Superette & Kitchen Mexican 10 East Frank Superette & Kitchen Restaurant 15 Monterrey 2 Carnitas Mexican Guanajuato Mexican Restaurant 15 Monterrey Mexican Restaurant

7 Mia Famiglia 10 Sun Valley Café

2 The Trail House

2 The Trail House 2 The Trail House 15 NY Pizza & Pasta

Champion 1 Mama's Pizza & Pasta

1 Mama's Pizza & Pasta

16 Lam's Kitchen 8 Mario's Italian Restaurant

1 Emmet’s Social Table

9 Saveeda's American Bistro

1 Emmet’s Social Table

9 Saveeda's American Bistro

16 Broome Street Burgers 8 Queens South Bar & Grill

9 Bistro D’Antonio

9 Saveeda's American Bistro

9 Bistro D’Antonio

5 Hickory Tavern

5 Cork & Ale 5 Hickory Tavern

12 Lucy's Bake and Deli 4 Carnitas Mexican Guanajuato 13 Rock Store Bar-B-Q 13 Rock Store Bar-B-Q 6 Poppy Seeds Bagels

6 Poppy Seeds Bagels

11 Sabor Latin Street Grill

5 Cork & Ale 13 Rock Store Bar-B-Q

Greater Matthews

3 Moochies Tavern 14 Ararat 17 7 Phat Daddy's Cafe

10 The Steak 'n Hoagie Shop 10 The Steak 'n Hoagie Shop

10 The Steak 'n Hoagie Shop 2 Athens Pizza 15 Pappa's Pizza To-Go

2 Athens Pizza

4 Mary O’Neill’s Irish Pub 4 Mary O’Neill’s

3 Moochies Tavern

12 Ice Cream & Pizza Works

4 Mary O’Neill’s

Waxhaw How to vote

13 Capricci’s True Italian 6 Stacks Kitchen

11 South Main Street Barbeque

3 Maxwell’s Tavern

3 Maxwell’s Tavern 3 Maxwell’s Tavern 14 701 Main Restaurant 7 El Vallarta 7 El Vallarta

2 Provisions Waxhaw

10 Fox’s Pizza Den 2 Provisions Waxhaw 2 Provisions Waxhaw 15 Moe’s Original BBQ

Visit the Union County Weekly Facebook to cast your votes for this bracket

You can also vote for this bracket on Instagram @ucweekly, @itncweekly and @weeklywaxhaw

Carrie Flock wondered why J-Birds was left off the Mint Hill bracket, while Colette Haas Bromfield called us out for not putting Southern Roots Bar and Grill in the Monroe bracket. Most of the seeds were determined by the number of Facebook followers. The selection committee reserved the right to include up to three restaurants on each bracket for special circumstances. For example, Duke’s Grill in Monroe is a culinary attraction for its food, 69-year history and no cell phones policy. And last year’s Final Four restaurants were given top seeds in this year’s bracket.

Page 4B • The Regional Weekly • April 3, 2020

State senator welcomes feedback from small businesses by Justin Vick

justin@cmgweekly.com

CHARLOTTE – N.C. Sen. Rob Bryan said he's received a lot of questions from small business owners about how to keep their companies operating and Bryan maintain payroll as local, state and federal governments try to stop the spread of COVID-19. Bryan acknowledged during a March 25 virtual town hall on Facebook that attempts to flatten the coronavirus curve have come with serious consequences to the economy. “We are trying to make sure we continue to be creative in protecting the most vulnerable while also allowing as many business activities in the economy that impact so many,” he said. “We want that to keep functioning.” He made the distinction that the federal government can literally print money while the state operates on a balanced budget. Bryan said he's in constant communication with federal leaders and his staff continues to take feedback from constituents, especially from small business owners and folks who are struggling. Bryan finds it especially helpful if constituents offer solutions that would help their particular business. He welcomes

“

feedback that explains a company's issues and insight into how the government can help. Bryan encourages constituents with questions about COVID-19 or federal stimulus to contact his office (919-7335655) or email him (Rob.Bryan@ncleg. net) if they have questions or feedback. The N.C. General Assembly is scheduled to go back into session in late April. “Again, at the state level, we stand ready, willing and able to take action as the federal stimulus gets finalized,” he said. The N.C. House and N.C. Senate are scheduled to go back into session in late April. Bryan, a former two-term state representative, was appointed to represent the southeastern parts of Mecklenburg County in the N.C. Senate in October 2019 after Dan Bishop was elected to Congress. He isn't running for election to the seat in 2020. While explaining the particulars of Mecklenburg County's stay-at-home order during the town hall, Bryan mentioned how awesome it was to work out to a Jillian Michaels fitness video downstairs with his wife and daughters. “Maybe I should have Facebook Lived that,” he said. “It would have been much more humorous for everybody and more humorous maybe even than my Facebook post last night trying to do some kind of cool push-up thing on my kitchen counter.”

We are trying to make sure we continue to be creative in protecting the most vulnerable while also allowing as many business activities in the economy that impact so many. We want that to keep functioning.”

• N.C. Sen. Rob Bryan

TILLIS (continued from page 1B)

the best data after we have gotten through this first crunch. Two trillion dollars is the most massive economic stabilization package that's ever been passed in the history of our nation. We're hopeful that if the combination of social distancing, everybody pulling together and doing their part to limit the spread, that this will provide (inaudible). But if the facts change, then what we'll have to do in Congress, we have to have everything on the table to help our economy recover and most importantly, ensure the fiscal health of everybody. I think that right now we don't want to look ahead to the next one. We have people already following on a phase four of the bill. There may very well be something we may need to pass to better define the measures in this current package, but I would think that we'd have to wait and see how this is going to affect. It's only been signed into law. The resources will begin moving this week. The resources to individuals will start moving in a few weeks. I think we really have to see how the economy and how society reacts to that while we're watching the numbers on the spread of the disease and our efforts on containment. That's the most important thing we can do now. Someone calling for it immediately outside of trying to fix or refine the underlying bills that we passed I think at this point would be premature. Constituent: Where can we get information for small businesses looking to get grants for payroll? Tillis: The first shot should be my website. Go to www.tillis.senate.gov. We just posted a link that will take you to the information. In a nutshell, the way it's going to work is if you're a small business and you'd like to keep your employees on the payroll, if you get this loan, which – at this point, we're trying to not only go to what we would normally do as a Small Business Administration-approved lenders but we're really opening this up to a broad base of lenders. And if you were to get a loan, if you just needed a low-interest loan to help you make cash flow work for the next month or so, then that would be a low-interest loan that would have a payment period that you would work out with your lender. If on the other hand, you use a portion of it or all of it for paying your employees, then that is a forgivable loan. You won't have to pay that back. That information has been summarized

on my website. We'll continue to update that because the way things work is we pass a law, then the administration has the right by law to write certain laws and guidance to push it out. As soon as we get more information on exactly which lenders are online, right now it would best to check with a local banker if you have a banking relationship and ask them what they've heard. I've got a call that we're scheduling with the bankers across North Carolina this week to answer their questions so they can mobilize. That should be occurring over the next week or so. Constituent: I'm self-employed. I don't have any income coming in, yet I have to pay rent. I'm asking the landlord to give us a break for two months so that we can get started back again. Is there anything you can do? Tillis: We are working on that. We have to look at everybody in the chain. Number one, you should be receiving that assistance to help you just to make ends meet. But if you're not making income, I know that's probably not going to erase all of your income deficiencies. We are encouraging banks and landlords to look at ways to where they can more or less shift things to the right a month or two. We also have to be mindful of the fact that the landlords themselves may be cashstrapped, because they may not be a full-time landlord or they may not have a portfolio to where they can pay all their bills. So part of what we have to do is seek help from the landlords to help individuals like you and then we have to seek help from the banks to help landlords who may not be able to have the cash flow to bridge the gap. That's what we're working on and that's why we're having the calls across the state with business organizations now that we passed the stabilization bill so that we can really get everybody in the chain – if they have the resources, if they don't have the resources and who further in the chain may be able to help them out with forbearances on loans, delayed rent payment and those sorts of things. Your situation is not unique. There are tens of thousands of people in North Carolina that we know are experiencing the same thing as you and that's why we're working on it. Want to learn more? U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis provides resource guides and answers to frequently asked questions on his website, www.tillis.senate.gov.

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Page 6B • The Regional Weekly • April 3, 2020 of coronavirus. Customers are still allowed to come into the store for groceries and books from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sundays, as long as they stay six feet away from one another. Rathers said she’s lucky she hasn’t been forced to close her doors yet, noting business would likely take a hit if customers can’t browse the shelves in person. “We don’t have anything in place,” Rathers said. “We don’t have our books listed online.” In the meantime, Rathers has placed a sign on the door reminding customers to practice social distancing and cover their faces. She has also been disinfecting the door handles, the checkout counter and other high-touch surfaces, but not all the books. She said it’s up to the customer to wipe down any books they want to take home. “We’re a big store, so people aren’t touching all the books all the time,” she said. “This is new territory. We just don’t know what to do.” If customers don’t feel comfortable coming inside, Rathers said they can call the store and she will check the shelves for specific books. They can also pay for their books over the phone and she will have them ready for pickup. Tony Matzke, owner of A. Pennyworth's Comics and Toys in Matthews, feels independent bookstores and comic book stores like his are more essential now than ever before, especially while people are staying home during the coronavirus. “I honestly would classify us as media because people do look to comic books for escape,” he said. “I would definitely say we’re essential, just for sanity.” A. Pennyworth's, located on Monroe Road since 1999, carries a large selection of both new and old comics, as well as toys from popular movies and TV shows, Barbies and art books. The store is closed to walk-in customers, but Matzke said people can still make purchases by emailing getcomics@apennyworthscom ics.com, calling the store or messaging him on Facebook. He will be in and out on a daily basis to process orders and is willing to ship items to customers, too. “I don’t know if I’m allowed to be here, but I’m doing it,” Matzke said. “I’m not going to turn away a

BOOKS (continued from page 1B)

stay-at-home order through the end of the month. It also puts new restrictions on Union County, which did not previously have a stay-athome order in place. According to a list of frequently asked questions released by the state, North Carolinians must abide by the statewide order. To the extent that a local order contains more restrictive requirements, the more restrictive local order must be followed. Under both orders, residents may only leave their homes to exercise outside, buy food and supplies, volunteer, take care of others, attend worship and seek medications or treatment. Some residents may even work if they are deemed essential workers, which include medical staff, first-responders and grocery store employees, among others. A full list of businesses and types of work the state considers essential can be found at www.governor. nc.gov/documents/executive-order-no-121. Mecklenburg County’s stay-at-home order can be found at www.mecknc.gov. While bookstores are not considered essential by Mecklenburg County, they do fall under the state’s category of “essential retail business,” provided they sell educational materials. According to the state, these stores may also remain open to carry out “minimum basic operations,” such as maintaining inventory, processing payroll and benefits, or other related functions. “Wouldn’t you think reading is essential … essential in enriching our lives?” asked Lee Rathers, co-owner of Book Buyers in Plaza Midwood. “I would say definitely to keep your brain working.” Rathers runs the used bookstore with her father, Richard. It has been at the corner of Central Avenue and The Plaza – in the heart of Charlotte’s Plaza Midwood neighborhood – since 1999. A few years ago, Rathers opened a vegan grocery store inside Book Buyers called The Greener Apple, which sells food, pet supplies, personal care and other vegan goods. She said that grocery component is one of the reasons Book Buyers has been able to operate somewhat like normal during the outbreak

Book Buyers in Charlotte’s Plaza Midwood neighborhood offers a variety of reading material to get people through the stay-at-home order. The bookstore also sells vegan groceries. Karie Simmons/CMG photo

customer.” The Book Lady, located on Independence Boulevard in Monroe, was operating normal business hours until the governor put a statewide stay-at-home order into effect March 30. The store’s new hours are Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Amiee Kenney, who works at the shop alongside owner Carol Gordon, said every customer must use hand sanitizer before they walk in the door. Only new books will be accepted for trade and all surfaces are wiped at least twice a day. It’s up to the customer, however, to sanitize the books. “High-touch areas are wiped down and sprayed like mad,” Kenny said. “I’m assuring everyone we are trying to make it as germ-free as possible. I’m just trying to stay open. I’m a book addict so I know how it is when you’re locked down and you don’t have enough books to read.” So far, Kenney said, customers have been keeping their distance, wearing masks and gloves and cleaning their hands. As long as the environment stays safe, she’s confident the store will stay open. Still, some other independent bookstores aren’t risking it. The Book Rack on Johnston Road in Pineville has had its doors closed since Mecklenburg County’s stay-at-home order began March 26. The used bookstore, which has been in business since 1995, had a new outgoing voicemail message as

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of March 30 telling customers the store is closed until restrictions are lifted. The Book Rack also confirmed the temporary closure in a message posted March 26 to its Facebook page. A few customers commented to show their support. “When you reopen we will be there!” wrote Karen Armstrong. “Sad, but necessary,” wrote Delia Molina Rasmussen. Park Road Books in Charlotte has also closed its doors to walkin customers but is still offering curbside pickup, online ordering and home delivery. Sally Brewster, who runs the bookstore with her brother, James, said they are the only employees in the store and are keeping their distance from one another. The store is located in the Park Road Shopping Center and has been in business since 1977. In addition to new books, Brewster said Park Road Books carries educational workbooks and resources for at-home learning while schools are closed. She’s been busy the past few days working with wholesalers and publishers to fill orders for schools trying to send books to students. She’s also been working with Communities In Schools of Charlotte-Mecklenburg, which is an affiliate of the national Communities In Schools network. The nonprofit has been supporting the coordination of student educational materials during the coronavirus.

Barnes & Noble offers curbside pickup Barnes & Noble stores are closed, but still offering curbside pickup for orders placed online at www.BN.com and marked as in-store pickup. The Arboretum 3327 Pineville-Matthews Road, Charlotte 704-341-9365 Daily pickup hours: 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday; noon to 4:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays Morrison Place 4020 Sharon Road, Charlotte 704-364-0626 Daily pickup hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday; 1 to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays Carolina Place Mall 11025 Carolina Place, Pineville 704-544-9985 Daily pickup hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday; noon to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays

Customers who want to purchase books from Park Road Books can order online or via email at or ders@parkroadbooks.com. Curbside pickup is from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. “A little money is better than no money and we feel we provide an essential service,” Brewster said. “We’re just grateful and we want to help people out whenever we can.”

MECKLENBURG COUNTY NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING and 30-DAY COMMENT PERIOD 2020 –2024 Consolidated Plan & Citizen Participation Plan 2020 Annual Action Plan 2019 Annual Action Plan Substantial Amendment #1

March 27, 2020

To All Interested Agencies, Groups, and Persons: Mecklenburg County would like your participation in the review of the 2020-2024 Consolidated Plan, Citizen Participation Plan, and the 2020 Annual Action Plan (AAP) for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. These documents are required by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in order to receive federal assistance to address housing, economic development, and community development issues. The Consolidated Plan prioritizes funding needs over a five-year period that will address economic, physical, and human development needs in Mecklenburg County. The Citizen Participation Plan sets forth policies and procedures for citizen participation, which are designed to maximize the opportunity for participation in the community development process. The Annual Action Plan is a planning document Mecklenburg County submits each year to HUD detailing how the County proposes to spend CDBG funds during the next program year. The 2019 Annual Action Plan (2019AAP) will be amended to reflect changes that include the removal of the Town of Cornelius’s Habitat Park Project ($56,500). The Town has elected to terminate the project due to the complicated nature of the associated activities. Funding will be transferred to ongoing projects. The Five-Year Consolidated Plan, Citizen Participation Plan, 2020 AAP, and 2019 AAP Substantial Amendment #1 are available for public review and comment from April 1, 2020 to April 30, 2020. Copies of these documents are available upon request; requests should be submitted to Mecklenburg County or the documents may be accessed online at MecklenburgCountyNC.gov/News. There are two ways to participate: 1) Present your comments at the April 14th virtual public hearing. 2) Send written comments to 9815 David Taylor Drive, Charlotte, NC 28262 ATTN: Victoria Avramovic, CED Assistant Director. All comments must be received by April 30, 2020 to be considered for the publication of the Consolidated Plan and the Annual Action Plan. Due to public health concerns the County will hold a virtual public hearing to obtain comments on these documents and proposed activities for Mecklenburg County’s CDBG program on Tuesday, April 14, 2020 from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. Attendees will be able to access the virtual meeting via computer or telephone. To register for the virtual hearing, please contact Timmothy Tibbs. Anyone needing special modifications when attending this meeting, has non-English-speaking needs and/or if this information is needed in an alternative format because of a disability, please contact Timmothy Tibbs at (704) 432-1649 or Timmothy. Tibbs@mecklenburgcountync.gov. We request at least 72 hours’ notice prior to the meeting to make the appropriate arrangements.