The Regional Weekly June 5, 2020 by Charlotte Media Group

Inside: CMS tries to ease overcrowding at school • Page 1B

THE REGIONAL

2020........

A SPECIAL EDITION COVERING MATTHEWS, MINT HILL, WAXHAW, INDIAN TRAIL AND SOUTH CHARLOTTE

SEE BALLOT ON PAGE 2A

Friday, June 5, 2020 • Vol. 13 • No. 23

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

Waiting out the protests Mayor Lyles says city leaders want to listen ing of Keith Lamont Scott, a black man, on Sept. 20, 2016. Days later, Lyles rolled out a plan designed to address issues that went to the root of strained race relations, including affordable housing and wages. That work helped build momentum toward an even-

by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

CHARLOTTE – Vi Lyles was among elected leaders in the background watching Charlotte Mayor Jennifer Roberts talk to the media about protests that turned violent in the nights following the fatal police shoot-

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tual campaign for mayor. Lyles defeated Roberts in the Democratic primary the following September and became the city's first African American mayor in November 2017. Lyles now finds herself in the foreground addressing see LEADERS, Page 3A

Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles gets feedback from the public May 30 outside the Charlotte Mecklenburg Government Center. Ken Brown/City of Charlotte

RNC to scout other cities for convention

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by Nyamekye Daniel Contributor

voted 5-4 during an emergency meeting held May 28 on Zoom in favor of traditional graduations. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, UCPS had scheduled graduations for traditional high schools June 11 and 12 at Wingate University, Winthrop University and Cabarrus Arena & Events Center. UCPS has

(The Center Square) – Republican National Convention organizers said June 2 they will start visiting new locations to possibly host the event, which is scheduled for August in Charlotte. It didn't help that President Donald Trump tweeted, "Because of @NC_Governor, we are now forced to seek another state to host the 2020 Republican National Convention." Gov. Roy Cooper and public health officials have been communicating back and forth with convention organizers about executing the event amid the COVID-19 outbreak. Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel released a statement June 2 in response to Cooper, a Democrat, saying he could not guarantee full capacity for the three-day event. "It is unfortunate the governor is dragging his feet on giving us any guidance as to how to move forward with plans to safely conduct our convention while generating hundreds of millions of revenue for the people of Charlotte and North Carolina," McDaniel said. Cooper told McDaniel and Republican National Convention President and CEO Marcia Kelly their request for 19,000 people to occupy the Spectrum Center and to fill hotels, bars and restaurants is improbable. “With the nation, the State of North Carolina and the City of Charlotte still under states of emergency, it's important to conduct the RNC convention accordingly,'" Cooper wrote in a letter to McDaniel and Kelly on June 2. “As much as we want the conditions surrounding COVID-19 to be favorable enough for you to hold the convention you describe in late August, it is very unlikely. Neither public health officials nor I will risk the safety of North Carolinians by providing the guarantee you seek.” In a letter to Cooper on May 29, McDaniel and Kelly asked for confirmation the convention would take place according to the original plans, agreed on two years ago. The state agreed to accommodate the 19,000 delegates, alternative delegates, staff, volunteers, elected officials and guests who plan to attend from Aug. 24 to 27,

see UCPS, Page 4A

see RNC, Page 5A

MARA kicks off spring, summer sports season

Super siblings Luke inspires Molly's webcomic, 1B

Welcome back 'Cheers' bar to reopen dining room, 1B

Beating the odds Sports help teen overcome obstacles, 1B

United We Run Law student raises money for ACLU, 3A

INDEX Community.......................................................... 1B Classifieds..............................................................5B News Briefs.........................................................2B Pet Hall of Fame........................................3B Best of the Weekly.............................. 2A Puzzles.........................................................................3B

by Karie Simmons karie@cmgweekly.com

MATTHEWS – Sports are back in full swing at Arthur Goodman Memorial Park now that Matthews Athletic & Recreation Association has officially kicked off its baseball and softball season. Parents and players showed up to the park on June 1 for the first games since MARA made the decision more than two months ago to suspend all activities due to COVID-19. During the closure, board members created new policies and made changes to the park to meet state guidelines and reopen. Those changes include closing the dugouts, installing hand-sanitizing stations and sectioning off benches on the football fields. Players can’t share equipment and they must maintain safe distances on and off the field, which means no more high fives and hugs. Spectators are limited to one person per child. MARA president-elect Laura Budd said the push to reopen the park came largely

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see MARA, Page 5A

I’ve walked around all the fields today and all I keep hearing is, ‘It feels good to be back.’" • Jose Diaz

Union County school board approves traditional graduation ceremonies by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

MONROE – Union County Public Schools has decided to defy Gov. Roy Cooper's executive order on mass gatherings to hold traditional high school graduations at football stadiums while deploying safety measures such as social distancing. School board members

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CONTACT US PUBLISHER Adrian Garson adrian@cmgweekly.com MANAGING EDITOR Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com NEWS EDITOR Karie Simmons karie@cmgweekly.com ART DIRECTOR Kylie Sark art@cmgweekly.com ADVERTISING Charlotte Conway charlotte@cmgweekly.com Kate Kutzleb kate@cmgweekly.com PRESS RELEASES justin@cmgweekly.com

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Police say brutality elsewhere strains community relations by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

CHARLOTTE – Jeff Estes believes the actions of a Minneapolis police officer that dug his knee into the back of George Floyd's neck on May 25 not only challenged his life's work but also went against all that humanity stands for. Estes serves as deputy chief for the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department. “I think there is a misconception that permeates through the community, which is to say just because we wear and share a uniform with a badge on it means that we agree with the behavior that we saw that cost the life of a citizen,” Estes said during a May 30 press conference. “That couldn't be further than the truth. In fact, most of us have given our adult lives to uphold all that's honorable, all that's good, and trying to be a protector, a person the citizens can look up to and who upholds humanity at the highest regard.” CMPD has worked to rebuild community Charlotte-Mecklenbug Police officers chat with people during Speed Street. CMG file photo relationships after an officer fatally shot Keith Lamont Scott, a 43-year-old black man. Scott's compassion and respect.” it serves,” according to the statement. “Their muThe Pineville Police Department released a tual commitment to proper and lawful policing, death in 2016 led to several days of protests. Chief Kerr Putney expressed his frustration statement May 29 that supported the firing of respect for all life and their deep desire to work how the behavior of a rogue officer in Minnesota officers involved in Floyd's arrest, saying their ac- cooperatively with the public and organizations can put others in jeopardy during a discussion tions lacked compassion and empathy for his life. such as the NAACP and the Baptist Minister's “The Pineville police officers have worked tire- Fellowship demonstrates an example we should with city activists posted May 29 on CMPD's lessly to foster relationships in all communities all be proud of in Union County.” Facebook page. in which we serve,” contin“It made our jobs in this ued the statement. “Unfortuprofession a lot harder,” PutWhitley asks for diversity training nately, actions such as this at ney said. “It's ridiculous, it's Matthews Commissioner Larry Whitley told times tend to break down all Police Chief Clark Pennington that he would disgusting, it's frustrating and we're getting tired of it. It's It's a slap in the face that the community and the prefer every officer go through diversity training officers have worked together to ensure the department isn’t putting out anya slap in the face and an afand an affront to all to build.” front to all the good officers one on the road that hates black people. Union County Sheriff Edwho are doing some fantastic “As a person of color – black person – I have the good officers work. This overshadows that. who are doing some die Cathey released a joint struggled this week probably harder than any statement about Floyd's other time in my life or career with what I have This sets us back decades.” fantastic work. death May 30 with Monroe seen,” Whitley said, noting he ran for commisSeveral other law enforcement agencies across the This overshadows Police Chief Brian Gillard, sioner in 2015 because there was “no representaas well as Nathel Hailey, of tion of color” on the board. Charlotte region have spoken that. This sets us the Union County NAACP, out against the police actions Whitley became the first African American back decades.” and J.N. Coble, of the Union elected to the board that year. The pastor at Mt. leading up to Floyd's death, County Baptist Minster's Moriah Missionary Baptist Church had a long including the Matthews, • CMPD Chief Kerr Putney Fellowship. Pineville, Waxhaw and Moncareer with the N.C. State Highway Patrol, The statement said they would pray for peace- during which he said he experienced racism, bias roe police departments. "The men and women of the Matthews Police ful demonstrations but not condone unlawful and prejudice. Department are highly trained to be professional, rioting. “My grandson is 17 years old and I got young “The Union County Sheriff's Department and black men in my church, young boys, that I have empathetic and humane to everyone we encounter," Clark Pennington wrote in a June 1 letter. Monroe Police Department will work endlessly to train if they are stopped how they can make sure “Our officers also understand the importance of to maintain the trust and faith of the community that they don’t get killed or shot,” Whitley said.

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Best of the Weekly We at the Weekly are excited to announce 2020’s “Best of the Weekly” readers choice awards. This is a chance for our readers to recognize their favorite local businesses. Not only will it honor businesses in our community providing top-tier services, but it also will serve as a resource for new families moving into town.

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Voting will run through June 19 Fill out this page with your vote and mail it to: Charlotte Media Group PO Box 1104, Matthews, NC 28106

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

Law student creates virtual run to benefit the ACLU by Karie Simmons karie@cmgweekly.com

CHARLOTTE – A Charlotte native has created a virtual running event to bring people together in the fight against racial equality and social justice. United We Run starts on July 18 and benefits the American Civil Liberties Union. Unlike a traditional fundraising race, participants run on their own, at a date and time of their choosing and in any location they want. They can choose between a 5K, 10K, half or full marathon. Registration costs $15 and 100% of proceeds will be donated to the ACLU to support their fight for social justice and equality through legislation, litigation and other avenues. The idea came from Gabrielle Gorman, a University of South Carolina law student who grew up in Charlotte. Gorman created United We Run after learning about Gorman George Floyd, a 46-year-old black man who recently died at the hands of a white Minneapolis police officer. “There’s two Americas for people and it’s not fair, and I think it’s finally coming to light right now more than ever,” Gorman said. “I wanted to do something that actually makes a difference, even if it’s a small difference.” While there are many ways to fight acts of injustice against black Americans, Gorman thought a virtual run would be something different. Plus, as an avid marathon runner, she knows the community of runners is strong. "When you’re running, you’re literally running forward to reach a goal,” she said. “This is a first step of many to change the way things are in America and I think it’s really cool that you can actually take a physical step forward in the right direction.” Before heading to USC, Gorman studied political science and social and economic justice at UNC-Chapel Hill. She said it’s her dream to one day work for the ACLU or Southern Poverty Law Center. Her initial goal for United We Run was for

United We Run takes place virtually on July 18 and raises money for the ACLU.

25 people to sign up and to raise a few hundred dollars while bringing people together through running. To her surprise, more than 60 people from nine states signed up in the first 24 hours. On June 1, registration had grown to 90 people from 12 states. “Every time I look at my phone, I see more and more people are registering,” Gorman said. “The fact that so many people have already signed up shows there’s a lot of people that believe in a kinder world and want to do something about it.” United We Run is not a politically driven event because equality isn’t political, Gorman said. Instead, she hopes the run encourages people to do better, speak up and be part of the solution. “It’s 2020 and we shouldn't still have to be fighting for basic human rights – we should have equality. We are fighting because of George Floyd, Amaud Arbery, Trayvon Martin and the countless others who deserve justice,” Gorman said. “If anyone doesn't think there is a serious problem in America, then they need to reflect on their own privilege and remember that [as human right activist Desmond Tutu said] ‘If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor.’” Want to participate? Visit www.unitedwerun2020.org to join the virtual run on July 18. Registration costs $15. Share your race picture on social media using the hashtag #UnitedWeRun2020.

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Support can come in different forms MARVIN – Isabelle Bay, a rising senior at Marvin Ridge High School, has a knack for art and a passion for people. Using leftover chalk, Isabelle took to her parents' driveway to express her frustration with the death of Minnesota man George Floyd and her support of Black Lives Matter. While her parents were unaware of her artwork until it was finished, they support her use of expression. “Young people are often looked at as lazy or unaffected these days,” said Isabelle's mother, Amanda Bay. “We have found among Isabelle and her friends that this is simply not true. They are passionate about causes that affect humanity – in some cases, more passionate than us as adults. They want their voices heard. They want to

Isabelle Bay created chalk art that includes the names of African Americans who lost their lives in encounters with police. Photos courtesy of Amanda Bay

affect change. The best we can do is give them the freedom and support to do that.” Isabelle is also a co-founding member and co-vice president of Marvin Ridge's Junior State of America. JSA members care deeply about topics that affect Americans. The bipartisan group wel-

LEADERS (continued from page 1A)

protests that turned violent in the nights following the death of George Floyd, a black man in Minnesota caught on video with the knee of a police officer on his neck for several minutes. A lot of people have asked Lyles to compare the two rally points. She doesn't feel like it's an appropriate comparison, describing Floyd's death as “a national sentiment.” Lyles declared a state of emergency on May 30, but she has stopped short of declaring a city-wide curfew – at least through the Weekly's deadline of mid-day June 3. In 2016, the city had a midnight curfew in place after the third night of protests. Since the most recent protests began May 29 in the Beatties Ford Road corridor, they've followed the same trend – peaceful, uplifting demonstrations during the day giving way to violent, riotous behavior at night. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department reports that protesters have thrown rocks, bottles and fireworks at officers, requiring some to seek medical attention. CMPD has had to use chemical agents to disperse crowds. Some protesters have taken to social media to complain that police were the ones inciting the crowds. Queen City Nerve caught on video how officers closed off two ends of a street and

comes viewpoints across the political spectrum. Isabelle attends Transformation Church. Led by former Carolina Panthers player Derwin Gray, the church is multi-ethnic and multi-generational, encouraging love for all at the center of its mission.

released a chemical agent into the crowd, prompting CMPD to tweet that it was conducting an internal review of the situation. Officers made 97 arrests through mid-day June 1, including Charlotte City Councilman Braxton Winston, who maintains he was there to help de-escalate police and protesters. He was arrested on charges of failure to disperse. Police have arrested several othes on weapons charges, including those with an automatic rifle with two 30-round magazines, two machetes, a baseball bat and a metal pole. While demonstrations at Freedom Park and SouthPark Mall were peaceful, some businesses in Uptown sustained damage, including Epic Times, a black-owned jewelry store in the Epicentre, and The King's Kitchen, a nonprofit restaurant that donates proceeds to feeding the hungry. Lyles acknowledged May 30 she doesn't have all the answers and that it will take the community to determine those. “We don’t have a step that we’re going to take,” Lyles said. “There’s not going to be any fast announcement of a next new program. What we’re going to be is deliberate listeners, and we’re going to try very hard to address the needs that we are seeing at this great time of a pandemic, at this great time that we find African American men jeopardized in so many ways and at this great time that Charlotte has the opportunity as the 15th largest city in this country to be a model for what happens.”

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The community has kept our newspapers afloat by Adrian Garson adrian@cmgweekly.com

I’m not sure how we ended up in the month of June, but here we are. A lot has happened in our world Garson over the past few months, and I thought it would be a good time to let you know how we are doing and what we are seeing in the communities we serve. When the COVID-19 crisis first exploded, we found it necessary to cut our distribution, particularly in retail locations due to the fact so many businesses would be forced to shut down temporarily. We also decided to combine our

four newspapers into one regional edition so that we could mitigate some financial difficulties that we knew we’d endure once advertising revenue declined. We are fully supported by advertising revenue and completely free to our readership. We’ve had this business model for the past 15 years and that won’t be changing any time soon. In April, our revenue took a nosedive as expected. We hunkered down and continued to provide news to this community via our print publication as well as through our websites, daily email blast and our social media channels. As a matter of fact, our content has increased significantly and a lot of you have noticed. We appreciate

the support we have received via signing up for our daily “CMG Insider” email newsletter. We also launched our “Best of the Weekly” reader’s choice voting on May 16 and we’ve had significant voting compared to this time last year. The community wants to support local businesses, and our reader’s choice contest is really the epitome of that concept. I love to see the community rally around the businesses that have either had to close or pivot their business model to survive over the past few months. I know it hasn’t been easy, and these business owners deserve all the accolades we can give them. We are seeing an uptick in consumer confidence and more people

are getting out into the community to shop and dine. I think we are all starting to try to live a little right now even though nothing seems to be as it was just a few short months ago. We are working hard to continue to bring you the news that directly affects our community and that still includes coronavirus updates, but just as important, are the stories of how local businesses are navigating these unchartered waters. We are navigating unchartered waters here, as well. My goal is to get our newspapers back to where they were in March of this year. While I don’t mind producing a regional newspaper, the communities we serve each deserve their own distinct newspaper like we’ve been publishing over the

UCPS (continued from page 1A)

moved graduations to the week of June 22 and will release schedules, locations and rain dates to the public by the end of the week. Central Academy of Technology & Arts, Monroe High, Sun Valley High and the Union County Early College don't have stadiums available and will likely hold their graduations at other campuses. UCPS also has to determine how many people will be allowed to watch the ceremony in-person when social distancing measures are applied to the seating. The district will also need to find a streaming platform. “We certainly appreciate everyone's patience as we work through all of our guidelines, our audio and live stream planning and other details to make this a safe enjoyable experience for our graduates and our families,” Superintendent Andrew Houlihan said. “We look forward to honoring the class of 2020.” One less thing the district has to worry about is getting in trouble with the law. Cooper's latest executive order prohibits mass gatherings of more than 25 people outside. Breaking the order is considered a Class 2 misdemeanor. However, the Union County Sheriff's Office doesn't plan on enforcing it. “Members of the Union County school board are duly elected officials by the citizens of Union County,” Sheriff Eddie Cathey said in a statement. “We respect and support their authority and will not interfere with

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past 15 years. We are working hard to get local businesses back in our publications and online so that we can achieve that goal. Lastly, I would like to thank each of you for supporting Charlotte Media Group, particularly over the past few months. I know we’ve all seen a lot of changes and endured quite a bit of struggle. I believe in our communities and the fabric of America that is weaved through each one of them. Brighter days are ahead of us and we are very grateful to continue to have the support of so many of you that read our newspaper each and every week. Adrian Garson serves as publisher of Charlotte Media Group.

any decision approved by the board.” The reason why the vote to hold traditional graduation was so close was that members like Joseph Morreale and Christina Helms had concerns about breaking the law. Gary Sides, who offered the motion to hold traditional graduations, said he didn't want to see a “terrible lack of leadership” from the governor deprive graduating seniors of one of the most important events of their lives. “This is going to be purely on a voluntary basis,” Sides said. “If there are any students or parents concerned about the safety of family members or students, they are certainly under no obligation to participate in the festivities. Everyone has the option to opt out if they feel it's in the best interest of their families.” Parade irks school board members Some members of the Union County Board of Education didn't appreciate the parade of vehicles in support of traditional graduations riding through Superintendent Andrew Houlihan's neighborhood May 28. The school board called an emergency meeting that day to discuss graduation. “He's our superintendent,” school board member Christina Helms during the meeting. “He does not have a vote on this board, so protesting or quote-unquote parading in front of his house is highly inappropriate.” School board members also didn't like how they invited television media to cover the spectacle.

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The Regional Weekly • June 5, 2020 • Page 5A

MARA (continued from page 1A)

from the parents. “We got a lot of emails asking about our plan and they were hoping we weren’t going to cancel the season,” she said. “I think we were all hoping that, too, because it’s so important for the kids and the community.” MARA has a long history in Matthews. The nonprofit was started in 1956 by a group of parents who thought the community needed a little league baseball program. Today, the MARA complex – located at Arthur Goodman Memorial Park off South Trade Street in Matthews – boasts 14 fields for baseball, softball and football. The league also has basketball, track and cheerleading programs, as well as baseball for special needs athletes. Board member Jeff Lorraine said MARA is lucky because it operates in a private park, so it doesn’t need to rely on schools or public facilities for fields. He said the board took the decision to reopen seriously and formed a subcommittee to tackle safety concerns. “I know the governor is looking out for the community at large, but the people want to play and it’s a choice,” Lorraine said. More than 75% of players opted to stay and empty spots were backfilled with players from leagues in Indian Trail, Weddington and south Charlotte that canceled their seasons. MARA now has about 52 baseball and softball teams, which is less than the 72 teams scheduled to play prior to the coronavirus. T-ball was also canceled. Members who wished to withdraw were given the option of requesting a full refund for the season (minus the cost of uniforms and expenses), transferring those fees toward future sports registration or donating the full amount to MARA. “The board was really concerned for our members and we wanted to give options,” said Monique Brooks, MARA’s sponsor chairman. Despite all the reshuffling, Brooks said MARA didn’t lose any sponsors. The organization has approximately 80 sponsors, including big names like Harris Teeter, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Elevation Church, Start and Dickens Orthodontics, Better Med Urgent Care and Volvo Cars Charlotte. “Our sponsors have been supportive during this uncertain time,” Brooks said. “In turn, I am doing as much as possible to continue to promote them to our large membership and support them back.” Brent Barnes didn’t want his 7-year-old son, Zachary, to miss out on baseball season

this year. He said playing sports and being outside is good for kids and their mental health, especially since they’ve been isolated in quarantine the last few months. At MARA, kids not only get to exercise, but they also get to see their friends and teammates. “Children need something to do, whether it be in school, playing sports, whatever it may be,” Barnes said. “Sitting around idle is not good for children.” Given the circumstances, Barnes said MARA did a good job implementing changes such as spreading out the teams, limiting spectators and encouraging sanitizing. “It means a lot, especially to the kids, and as a parent, I really enjoy watching my son play baseball,” he said. “I’m just glad to be back.” Mike Hall coaches the MARA eight-andunder Stampede softball team. The girls were a day away from starting their season when MARA announced sports were temporarily on hold. “That was very upsetting to be ready to play and then nothing at all for the next two months,” Hall said. “I’m glad MARA has stood strong in what they believe in and made it work.” Hall added he was happy to see many of the girls had been practicing at home during quarantine. “When we came back, it was like we never missed a beat,” he said. While MARA was able to work out the kinks for baseball and softball, the organization struggled to make flag football happen. Deon Boswell, MARA’s football commissioner, said the flag football season was supposed to start March 15 and end around Memorial Day weekend, but that never happened. Instead, he was waiting to see if it could start once the state entered Phase 2 of Gov. Roy Cooper’s three-phase plan. Phase 2 excludes tackle football and other contact sports but is unclear about flag football, Boswell said. If MARA was to move forward, it would have to limit the amount of spectators and create guidelines for social distancing, which is easier to do with sports like softball and baseball than flag football. All in all, Boswell said, it wouldn’t have been the season players wanted. “I am sad and a number of parents and players are sad,” he said. “We do a lot of preparation before a season starts so it’s disappointing, but I understand and we’re doing the best we can in terms of safety.” Board member Jose Diaz said despite the loss of T-ball and flag football, he’s looking forward to MARA’s spring and summer season. It will be shorter this year, with a few

RNC (continued from page 1A)

MARA players are told to social distance on and off the field. Karie Simmons/CMG photo

more games squeezed in to make up for lost time, but something is better than nothing. “I think that it’s important to get kids back into some type of normalcy. It feels like life is back,” Diaz said. “I’ve walked around all the fields today and all I keep hearing is, ‘It feels good to be back.’" Want to know more? Visit www.marasports.org for more information about the league. Like Matthews Athletic Recreation Association on Facebook and follow @mara_sports on Instagram and @MARASports on Twitter to stay connected.

McDaniel said. North Carolina is in the second phase of reopening its economy. Gatherings are limited to 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors, and restaurants are allowed to open at 50% capacity. Cooper said he is willing to discuss a scaled-down event with social distancing measures and face coverings. McDaniel is pushing to finalize the plans. "We hope to still conduct the business of our convention in Charlotte, but we have an obligation to our delegates and nominee to begin visiting the multiple cities and states who have reached out in recent days about hosting an historic event to show that America is open for business," McDaniel said. RNC officials are expected to visit Nashville this week, Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee said. Las Vegas, Georgia and Florida also expressed interest in hosting the event, which generated an estimated $188 million in 2016 for Cleveland, according to the Cleveland host committee. "I hope they all continue to talk with us about a scaled-down convention, we're ready to discuss that," Cooper said. "We're still waiting for answers to our health questions about how they would take steps to protect people about social distancing and face masks, and we have not heard a response from that."

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Page 6A • The Regional Weekly • June 5, 2020

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COMMUNITY The Regional Weekly • June 5, 2020 • Page 1B

CMS considers changes to Providence Spring boundary by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

CHARLOTTE – Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools is looking at adjusting the enrollment boundary for Providence Spring Elementary to ease overcrowding, but several members of the community say the district is only shifting the problem to a neighboring school. Associate Superintendent Akeshia Craven-Howell said the issue of overcrowding surfaced last year as the district was establishing a boundary at the Rea Farms STEAM Academy. She said the boundary for the new school didn't

address relief at Providence Spring, but CMS vowed to continue the conversation in the 2019-20 school year. Enrollment at Providence Spring in 2019-20 was at 961 students (133% utilization). CMS projects enrollment to grow to 1,055 by 2024 and 890 by 2029, but Providence Spring can't add any additional mobile units to the eight already on campus. So the district has shown the community three options, each of which affects McKee Road Elementary. Enrollment this year at McKee Road was at 584 students (102% utilization). The campus doesn't have any mobile units, but it

could accommodate between 10 and 16. Scenarios are as follows: • The blue scenario assigns a portion of the Providence Spring Elementary attendance area that continues to Jay M. Robinson Middle to McKee Road Elementary. Enrollment would be 831 students (145% utilization) for McKee Road and 734 (102%) for Providence Spring. • The orange scenario assigns the northern most portion of the Providence Spring Elementary attendance area to McKee Road Elementary. Enrollment see CMS, Page 4B

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools introduced a new redistricting option that would move students from Providence Spring to McKee Road elementary schools. Photo courtesy of CMS

The Hill Bar & Grill to reopen dining room by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

Superhero siblings Girl Scout creates webcomic about adoptive siblings

emotions are a lot more varied and so I thought it would be interesting if your emotions WESLEY CHAPEL – Fif- could change the weather,” teen-year-old Molly Roth will Molly said. Molly started drawing “We always remember the day her parents brought her little broth- Adopted A Superhero” at the er, Micah, home from South beginning of March for her Girl Scout Gold Award project. AcKorea. He cried a lot. Fast forward a few years and cording to the Girl Scouts webMolly has used that memory as site, girls who earn Gold Awards “tackle issues that inspiration for a are dear to them webcomic called and drive lasting “We Adopted change in their A Superhero.” communities and It tells the story beyond.” of a family who After talking unknowingly with her mom, adopts a little Molly realized a boy with superlot has been writpowers, Luke, ten to help adopand his relationship with Molly Roth’s adoptive brother, tive parents and children with the his older sister, Micah, is the inspiration behind her webcomic “We challenge of adSarah. Adopted a Superhero.” Photo justing to a new Luke has the courtesy of Molly Roth environment, ability to control the weather with his emo- but there is less available to tions. Whenever Luke cries, it help children with their feelings rains. His tears of joy make it about new adopted siblings. Children already part of the snow in the winter and create a rainbow in the summer. He can family can have trouble adjusteven change the path of a hurri- ing to an adoption, especially if cane just by being happy. see SUPERHERO, Page 3B “When you’re younger, your by Karie Simmons

karie@cmgweekly.com

MINT HILL – The Hill Bar & Grill soon plans to reopen its dining room for the first time since March. As COVID-19 started to spread across Mecklenburg County, staff decided it would be best to temporarily close the restaurant so they could tend to their families. March 21 was the restaurant's last day. “We really didn't know what was happening,” owner David Andrews said. “The fear was real.” After realizing a lot of his staff wasn't able to get unemployment benefits and seeing other restaurants have success with curbside pickup, Andrews reopened The Hill on April 24 on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings. As much as they wanted to get back to business as usual, staff didn't want to rush back and have their customers get sick. The Hill also added a 15% gratuity to bills, but it didn't matter. People were coming back to The Hill and paying more to take care of the staff. “It's mind-boggling to see how the community has taken care of their own,” Andrews said. “I'm just very proud to be a Matthews-Mint Hill guy. It's really cool to be in small towns and have support of regulars and non-regulars.” Andrews moved to Mint Hill 15 years ago. He bought the Mint Hill Grill & Deli, added a bar and flat-screen TVs, and repackaged the place as The Hill Bar & Grill. Since opening in March 2011, they've had a loyal following. see HILL, Page 4B

Owner David Andrews describes The Hill Bar & Grill as a Cheers bar – the kind of place where everybody knows your name. Photo courtesy of The Hill Bar & Grill

Athletics helped Sam O'Grady overcome obstacles INDIAN TRAIL – Early on in Samuel O’Grady’s life, it was clear he would have challenges. After noticing developmental delays, Sam's parents consulted a doctor and were told their 2-yearold son had autism. Doctors prepared Sam’s family for the worst, telling them it was very likely he would not be able to make friends, go to a regular school and walk or talk normally. Sam's family set out to work as hard as they could at therapy and early intervention techniques to push his limits and combat the

affects of autism. In fifth grade, the family discovered the effect that exercise, particularly running had on his body. He was able to come off of all his medications and began regularly running with his father, Sean. In seventh grade, Sam joined the cross country team in middle school. During his first race, he was running last, but his teammates met him for the final 50 yards of the race. Sam became hooked. By the time Sam was a senior

at Sun Valley High School, he was running six-minute miles and made his goal of finishing a cross country race in under 21 minutes. Cross country opened up new friendships and Sam’s personality flourished, helping him get outside of his comfort zone by becoming a team captain, member of the homecoming court and Professor Plum in the school’s rendition of “Clue.” The North Carolina High School Athletic Association took notice, selecting him as one of

four student-athletes across the state to win the 2020 Tony Simeon Courage Award. The award honors individuals who, despite adversity, have demonstrated exemplary character and performance. Left: Samuel O'Grady proved to be a supportive teammate, bringing doughnuts to the Sun Valley High School cross country team on the day of regional and state meets – even when he wasn't competing. Photo courtesy of the NCHSAA

Page 2B • The Regional Weekly • June 5, 2020

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INVEST IN YOUR CHILD’S FUTURE Have you been searching for an excellent learning environment for your child? We invite you to tour our campus to learn more about our academic offerings. Call 704.893.3607 today to schedule a tour and experience the difference yourself!

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Proceeds from the Greater Matthews ReStore are used to support Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity's mission of building homes through affordable housing in the Matthews, Mint Hill, and Stallings. CMG file photo

ReStore reopens for business MATTHEWS – The Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity ReStore reopened its doors to shoppers and donors on May 12. The store, located at 2447 E. John St., accepts donations and sells home improvement items to the public at a fraction of the cost. The ReStore is open to shoppers from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays to Fridays and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays. Shoppers are encouraged to wear a face mask and maintain social distancing. Merchandise is sanitized or quarantined before going on the sales floor. Staff wears face masks and gloves. Visit www.greatermatthewshabitat.org/re storedonate for details on donations.

Aspiring Eagle Scout seeks donations for her food drive MATTHEWS – Hannah Todd, of Matthews, joined Boy Scouts of America’s Scouts BSA program the day it first opened to female youth, Feb 1, 2019. She is a Life Scout with Troop 233, which meets at Sardis Presbyterian Church. After seeing how COVID-19 placed a strain on Loaves and Fishes to help to those in need, Hannah wanted to help the charity by organizing a food drive for her Eagle Scout project. She is also overseeing groups of scouts in the sewing of masks to keep people safe during food collection and sorting. She invites the community to drop off pasta, cans of shelf-stable meat or more from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 6 at the Sardis Presbyterian Scout Hut parking lot, 6101 Sardis Road, Charlotte. Donors can stay in their cars and wait for a scout to greet them and collect their donations.

Crisp to lead Matthews Elementary as principal MATTHEWS – Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools has appointed Penelope Crisp as principal of Matthews Elementary School. Crisp has experience as a principal at three elementary schools within CMS: Lansdowne (2014-present), Clear Creek (2010-2012) and Torrence Creek (2008-2010). She has worked with CMS since 1997. “I’m really excited to embark on a new opportunity to lead Matthews Elementary,” Crisp said, calling it an excellent school.

Meck. County ramping up contact tracing of COVID-19

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CHARLOTTE – Mecklenburg County Public Health is using new software to expand its contact tracing program to assist with the follow-up of positive COVID-19 cases. The new software tools allow Mecklenburg County Public Health to automate workflows, streamline case and known contact communication, and align and integrate with statewide COVID-19 response systems. The health department has also trained and added more than 100 additional staff to conduct COVID-19 contact tracing activities, bringing the total number of staff trained to assist with case investigation and contact tracing to 170.

Union County picks emergency management director MONROE – Andrew Ansley will become Union County's emergency management director on July 1. Ansley joined Union County in October 2019 as assistant emergency management coordinator. He previously worked for the Monroe Fire Department for nearly 19 Ansley years, including three years as deputy chief of administration and assistant emergency management coordinator. Ansley succeeds Donald Moye, who is retiring from the role June 30 after eight years. Moye has served nearly 40 years in law enforcement and emergency management. William Seamon, preparedness coordinator, will replace Ansley as assistant emergency management coordinator.

Kegel gets new mission INDIAN TRAIL – Donn Kegel will assume command of the James B Crump VFW Post 2423 beginning June 27. Donn, of Waxhaw, served as a pilot in the U.S. Air Force. He retired after a 30-year career, which included combat in Desert Storm and a role in the Iranian Hostage Rescue mission in 1980. Donn is focused on preventing veteran suicides and believes interpersonal relationships

found in veterans organizations like the VFW are important in saving lives. He also plans to start a military history forum to help educate youth and parents and to encourage service. Visit www.vfw2423.org for details.

Donations can turn 'Inherit the Land' into documentary MARVIN – The community can help Gene Stowe's book, “Inherit the Land: Jim Crowe Meets Miss Maggie's Will,” become a successful documentary by donating to an Indiegogo campaign. The book highlights the court case over Maggie Ross's will, which passed on her 800acre Marvin home to an African American family. All-white juries upheld the will in court a century ago. The $300,000 campaign (www.indiegogo. com/projects/inherit-the-land#/) provides nine levels of donor incentives, ranging from a copy of the book for $100 to 1% of the film's profits for $10,000. Filmmakers Cylk Cozart and Jim Johnson are connected to the project.

Indian Trail reopens town hall INDIAN TRAIL – Indian Trail reopened town hall to the public June 1. Visitors will be asked to maintain at least six feet of social distancing, use hand sanitizer when entering and wear a face covering. People feeling ill should call 704-821-5401 or visit www.indiantrail.org instead of visiting town hall. Initially, only half of town staff will work in the building at one time. They will be screened daily for COVID-19 symptoms and wear face coverings when interacting with the public. The town will continue to clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily.

Tax rate holds steady in Indian Trail budget proposal INDIAN TRAIL – Interim Town Manager Ray Allen presented to the town council May 26 an $18,697,657 proposed fiscal year 2020-21 budget with no increases to the tax rate or stormwater fees. The tax rate stands at $.185 per $100 of assessed valuation. The General Fund is proposed at $11,760,416. The General Fund represents an increase of $8,407 (0.072%) over the current year’s budget. Property tax values have risen to $3,727,177,552, an increase of 3.69%, due to new development and construction. So, the town will see increased property tax revenues; however, other revenue sources, such as sales taxes, investment income and telecommunications tax revenue, are expected to decline due to the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting economic downturn. ABC System revenues will decline because of the cost of construction of a new ABC store.

CMS moving, renovating mobile classrooms CHARLOTTE – Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools is spending about $3.5 million to move mobile classrooms and restrooms this summer to different campuses, according to Superintendent Earnest Winston. This includes the following: • Install three mobile classrooms at Ballantyne Elementary. • Install four mobile classrooms and one mobile restroom at Carmel Middle. • Install two mobile classrooms and one mobile restroom at Starmount Academy of Excellence. • Renovate and install two mobile classrooms and one mobile restroom at Greenway Park Elementary. CMS is spending more money to renovate mobile restrooms at Blythe Elementary, David Cox Elementary, Lebanon Elementary, Mountain Island Academy, Stoney Creek Elementary and Tuckaseegee Elementary,

Historic site opens back up PINEVILLE — The President James K. Polk State Historic Site grounds opened to the public on May 30 with some new procedures to help ensure the safety of staff and visitors. The grounds, located at 12031 Lancaster Hwy., will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., but the visitor center, gift shop, museum, historic buildings and indoor restrooms will remain closed. Staff will offer a 30-minute interpretive talk Saturdays at 10 a.m. Registration is required: www.jameskpolk.net. Visitors are encouraged to wear face coverings; stay at least six feet away from others and clean hands frequently.

The Regional Weekly • June 5, 2020 • Page 3B

Charlotte Media Group's

Pet Hall of Fame We are collecting the cutest photos of pets in southern Mecklenburg and western Union counties for Charlotte Media Group’s Pet Hall of Fame. Unlike other Hall of Fames, we plan on adding to it frequently. Email photos of your cute pets to justin@ cmgweekly.com or tag us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram for consideration. We’ll recognize new inductees each week! Our social media handles are @mmhweekly, @southcltweekly, @ucweekly, @itncweekly and @weeklywaxhaw.

it pile up,” Molly said. “It’s a way for the Siblings Story page. Molly somethem to know they’re not alone so times incorporates the experiences (continued from page 1B) they can form proper bonds with their from others when she write new strips. adoptive siblings. I know it feels pretty She also takes from her life, too. their expectations are not properly set, great to have a good relationship with Molly said Luke is very similar to Molly said. Adopted siblings require your sibling.” her real brother, Micah. They’re both more attention at first and sometimes New comics are published on energetic and love sports, watching that can create resentment in older Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays YouTube and asking to have playsiblings, which can also lead to feel- at www.weadoptedasuperhero.com. A time. ings of guilt. complete book of comic strips will be “You’ll find some of the strips are “We Adopted A Superhero” ad- published in June and distributed to true stories,” Molly said. dresses these issues in a lighthearted adoption agencies in North Carolina. Molly hopes the big takeaway from way that’s easy to understand and aims The website also contains resources her project is the importance of comto help new adoptive siblings commu- to help parents prepare their children munication for adoptive siblings. nicate their feelings. to expand family through “The sooner you talk about your The New York Timestheir Syndication Sales adopCorporation 620 Eighth Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10018 feelings, it will help repair relation“It’s important for them to know tion and for kids struggling to adapt Call: 1-800-972-3550 their feelings are valid and they shouldFortoInformation a new sibling. Veteran adoptive ships and make them stronger,” she Monday, October Thursday, October28, 3, 2019 work through them instead of lettingFor Release siblings can share their experiences on said.

SUPERHERO

Crossword

Sparky is fascinated with Dance's tail. This calm did not last as this was the start of an entertaining cat fight for their parents Marv and Pat Wyant.

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ANSWER TO PREVIOUS PUZZLE

Kaye and Marcus Hamilton's dear little Shih Tzu, Mini, needed a furry friend. They found her a rescue kitten at Mint Hill Animal Hospital and named her Buttons. Mimi and buttons have brought loads of joy and comfort into their lives.

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ANDREA CARLA MICHAELS PUZZLE BY JEFF CHEN

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

It’s a

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Page 4B • The Regional Weekly • June 5, 2020

HILL (continued from page 1B)

In April, The Hill defeated three No. 1 seeds to win Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly's 2020 Munch Madness: Road to the Final Fork, a bracket-style competition in which readers vote each week for their favorite restaurants. The Hill had wins over O’Neil’s Pub, Stooges Pub, Mint Hill Rock Store Bar-B-Q and reigning champion Dunwellz to represent the Mint Hill bracket. It then defeated New Zealand Cafe in the Final Four and El Valle in the championship. “All the restaurants in that are phenomenal,” Andrews said. “In Mint Hill, we are all family. It's really neat to have support from your customers.” Some of the people who cast their votes via email would leave notes about their experiences at the restaurant. Lisa Ellsworth wrote that even though her family moved out of town, they keep coming back to eat at their favorite burger and wings

CMS (continued from page 1B)

would be 776 students (135% utilization) for McKee Road and 789 (109%) for Providence Spring. • The yellow scenario would combine enrollment boundaries for both schools, making McKee Road a K-2 campus and Providence Spring a 3-5 campus. Enrollment would be 711 students (124% utilization) for McKee Road and 854 (118%).for Providence Spring. CMS has eliminated the yellow option based on how poorly it performed on a survey. The district has added another scenario. The gray scenario attempts to assign five intact neighborhoods, which are closest to McKee Road from Providence Spring to McKee Road. Enrollment would be 768 (134%) for McKee Road and 797

place. “David Andrews and his team love their community, their friends and family,” Karen Swett wrote. “The food is delicious and the atmosphere even better. If there is ever anyone in need – you can count on The Hill to gather the troops to support their community.” For Andrews, the feeling is mutual. “The support that we've gotten from the community is ridiculous,” he said. “Even being open for four hours a day for three days – it really warmed the soul to see how well Mint Hill and Matthews took care of their people.”

(111%) for Providence Spring. Though the community had not seen the gray proposal, Craven-Howell acknowledged one drawback is a small number of students moved to McKee Road would advance to Crestdale Middle School. Sean Strain, who represents the area on the school board, recommended May 26 the district consider another option that has gained traction in the community. Superintendent Earnest Winston said he would have to discuss it with Craven-Howell before showing that option to the community. CMS is scheduled to have a final public hearing and vote during the June 23 board meeting, In the meantime, CMS intended to offer a webinar and a follow-up survey to parents around June 1. “I think we're in a difficult scenario here with regards to the

for BUSIN

Want to go? The Hill Bar & Grill planned on reopening its dining room from noon to 9 p.m. June 3, but had a setback. The restaurant is gradually adding to its menu, but you'll find wings and sandwiches. Expect some extra safety precautions, such as social distancing. Keep tabs on the restaurant on Facebook (@thehillgrill).

COVID crisis the ability to hold proper community engagement and face-to-face meetings but I do think we have an opportunity on a decision like this to continue the proper engagement, so I would certainly appreciate the consideration,” Strain said. School board member Margaret Marshall said she has been getting emails from parents asking the school board to hold off on redistricting until a longer term solution is found. She doesn't think that's an option since they can't add students to Providence Spring. She's not in favor of shifting students from Providence Spring to another school that would alter high school feeder patterns either. Ten people spoke during the May 26 public hearing. Shirin Vandekar, advocacy chair for Providence Spring, feels the community hasn't had adequate

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OPENESS

The Hill Bar & Grill, located at 11232 Lawyers Road in Mint Hill, has been offering a limited menu during the COVID-19 pandemic. CMG file photos

FREE VEIN

SCREENINGS

opportunities for public comment due to COVID-19 and that survey results favoring the blue scenario are unreliable since the number of survey-takers representing Providence Spring was much higher than the school's enrollment. “I'm aware the board is attempting to continue with business as usual; however, effective community engagement is imperative with a decision like this. Providence Spring has not been given the opportunity to work together as a community with McKee Elementary to come up with an acceptable solution.” Meghan Swedburg, incoming PTA president, encouraged the school board to delay the vote until August so the community can explore other options. “The options that are currently presented – we haven't seen gray – have divided our school commu-

nity during this time and we need to be working together,” Swedburg said. Three of the speakers identified themselves as board members of the Providence Plantation Homeowners Association, including President Bob Hayes. Board member Ashley Feehan said it would be in the best interest of children to keep Providence Plantation neighborhoods together. Julie Jensen said she moved to the Berkeley neighborhood five years ago because her family assumed it would be safe from redistricting. Their previous school system went through a redistricting every three to four years, bouncing her oldest boys from school to school twice. “I believe we will be having this conversation again in the years to come, which would then possibly require our neighborhood to be moved again, she said.

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The Regional Weekly • June 5, 2020 • Page 5B

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Page 6B • The Regional Weekly • June 5, 2020