The Regional Weekly Sept. 4, 2020 by Charlotte Media Group

Inside: Track program mourns loss of coach • Page 1B

THE REGIONAL

A SPECIAL EDITION COVERING MATTHEWS, MINT HILL, WAXHAW, INDIAN TRAIL AND SOUTH CHARLOTTE Friday, Sept. 4, 2020 • Vol. 13 • No. 36

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

PHASE 2.5

Gov. Cooper reopens gyms, bowling alleys by Julie Havlak Carolina Journal News Service

RALEIGH – Gov. Roy Cooper will move North Carolina into Phase 2.5 on Friday, Sept. 4, when gyms and bowling alleys will be able to operate at 30% capacity. But Cooper’s reopening plan will bring little relief to gyms and bowling alleys, owners say. For many, it’s too little, too late. Bars, movie theaters and amusement parks will remain closed. Restaurants, salons,

aquariums, barbershops and tattoo parlors can operate at 50% capacity. Legal mass gatherings increased to 25 people indoors and 50 outdoors. Restaurants and breweries can’t sell alcohol after 11 p.m. Face coverings are required in public spaces where people can’t social distance. Children over the age 5 must wear masks. Cigar bars and hookah lounges are closed, under Cooper’s latest order. see PHASE, Page 2A

North Carolina was one of seven states in late August that still shuttered gyms. It is among the top five states with the lowest percentage of people planning to return to their gyms, according to a survey by RunRepeat, which questioned 5,055 gym members worldwide. CMG file photo

Developers can build near Bonterra Village Way

Mask-tacular! Atrium Health gives away 1M masks, 3A

by Yustin Riopko Contributor

Vandalism ‘Black Lives Matter’ sprayed on school, 2A

Gayle Somervell, 76, of Charlotte, sends 35 handmade cards to friends and family each week. Somervell began making cards as a way to stay connected during the pandemic. Karie Simmons/CMG photos

Helping others Family donates cuddle cot to hospital, 2A

Love, Gayle

see GREENWICH, Page 4A

Handmade cards bring joy to others

Waxhaw OKs 488-home neighborhood

by Karie Simmons karie@cmgweekly.com

Fall sports COVID-19 throws curveball, 1B

10 to watch Plump editor points at good teams, 2B

ALSO INSIDE: >> SouthPark suit store ensures perfect fit, 2A >> Shelter shifting drive-thru food pantry to twice a month, 3A >> Editor thinks prep sports plan is better than nothing, 1B

CHARLOTTE – Gayle Somervell felt isolated in the early months of COVID-19. She missed her friends and family and was struggling to have real connections without face-to-face interaction. “You can call them, but today there isn’t a lot to say,” Somervell said. Creative at heart and unable to sit still at home, the 76-yearold decided to busy herself by making cards. For the first one, she drew a hot air balloon and a butterfly, wrote “Up, Up + Away,” “Follow your Dreams” and signed it “Love, Gayle.” Since then, Somervell has sent dozens of cards featuring angels, bears, flowers, seashells, butterflies and snowmen to friends and family across the country. She uses blank cards from the dollar store or craft store and embellishes them with scrapbooking stickers, drawings, gemstones and designs from wrapping paper and notepads. No matter what Somervell creates, she always includes a funny

INDIAN TRAIL – Developers just received the go-ahead to build 127 houses and 119 townhomes on Poplin Road near Bonterra Village Way. The Indian Trail Town Council voted Aug. 25 to approve the annexation and rezoning petitions that make Greenwich Downs possible. John Ross, of Eagle Engineering, presented plans on behalf of Ingram Walters for Greenwich Downs at the Aug. 11 town council meeting. “We believe the site works very well with the existing conditions – the existing topography of the site,” Ross said. “We have pedestrian paths surrounding the full perimeter of the single-family side and throughout the interior portions of the townhome side.” Council members agreed. “This project came to the county first, and had apartments, townhomes, a lot more density, a lot less amenities,” Councilman

by Yustin Riopko Contributor

message or uplifting saying and signs the card “Love, Gayle.” “It lets people know you’re thinking about them and maybe give them a laugh,” she said. Somervell, who has lived in the Heritage Woods East neighborhood in Charlotte for 41 years, started sending cards to a handful of people once or twice a month. Her list of recipients grew as she thought of more friends and family – like her sisters-in-law in California and Washington – who would enjoy a card.

“

I think all the kindness and appreciation we can show is what’s going to get us through."

WAXHAW – Town commissioners have approved a rezoning that will yield 488 new houses by 2030. Commissioners voted Aug. 25 to approve the rezoning request and make way for the residential development, which will span 212 acres between Rehobeth Road and Waxhaw Crossing Drive. The Preserve at Forest Creek will go up in five phases, with developers breaking ground in 2021 and finishing up in eight to 10 years. Annexed into the town in 2005, the land was originally going to support 596 homes, but the project was canceled due to inadequate sewer infrastructure. For 15 years, no developer came forward to invest in the spot. Now, Waxhaw Ventures LLC is looking to do that legwork. Developers have agreed to donate a portion of land north of the subdivision to Union County for use as a water pumping

see CARDS, Page 3A

see HOMES, Page 4A

Bringing our Communities Together

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THE WEEKLY

BY THE UNION COUNTY WEEKLY

Page 2A • The Regional Weekly • Sept. 4, 2020

Kashiyama moves showroom to SouthPark shopping center

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Reaction to these photos on the Union County Sheriff's Office's Facebook page ranged from people questioning the extent of the damage to others speaking for and against the Black Lives Matter movement. Photo courtesy of Union County Sheriff's Office

'Black Lives Matter' spray-painted on Weddington High School

MANAGING EDITOR Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

WEDDINGTON – The Union County Sheriff's Office is investigating vandalism at Weddington High School that resulted in $5,000 worth of damage. Officials say someone removed three banners hanging on the front of the high school and spray-painted “Black Lives Matter” on the exposed brick. Union County Public Schools notified the school resource officer about the graffiti

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 Loura Hilliard loura@cmgweekly.com

on Monday, Aug. 31. Surveillance cameras caught at least one person, standing at least 6 feet tall, cutting one of the banners and spraypainting the building. The suspect appears to be wearing a dark ski mask and possibly gloves. Deputies believe the vandalism occurred between 1:30 and 2 a.m. Monday, Aug. 31. UCPS staff attempted to remove the graffiti, but further work may be necessary to re-

move the paint. “Painting a spirit rock is one thing but intentionally destroying property and painting a building is vandalism, which costs the taxpayers money,” Sheriff Eddie Cathey said. Deputies are asking anyone with information about the case to call Crimestoppers at 704-283-5600 or the Union County Sheriff’s Office at 704283-5600.

Donated cuddle cot will help others

NEWSLETTER

CHARLOTTE – Tiffany Lowry, her husband Mick, 7-year-old son Mason and 1-year-old son Monroe honored the memory of their son (and brother), Jace Alexander, with a gift for other female patients at Atrium Health Pineville. Tiffany suffered the loss of Jace at 40 weeks in 2018. “The care I received was amazing. Everyone was so compassionate,” she said. “Some of the nurses who had similar experiences shared their stories with me and gave me hope.” Jace would have turned 2 years old on Aug. 30. The family wanted to do something special for his birthday. They raised enough money through a GoFundMe page to buy and donate a cuddle cot to Atrium Health Pineville. The device gives parents more time to spend with a child who dies at birth by cooling the baby's body. “There was a cuddle cot available that didn’t drop the temperature down enough so we could

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A gift in memory of Jace Alexander helps families at Atrium Health Pineville grieve for children who die during birth. Photo courtesy of Atrium Health

not use it. But we were able to spend time with him all day,” Tiffany said. “Through this donation, we wanted to give the gift of time to other families.”

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PHASE (continued from page 1A)

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CHARLOTTE – Kashiyama recently moved its showroom to the Sharon Square shopping center in SouthPark to offer more space and accessibility for clients in a retail-focused location. The Japanese made-to-measure suit brand initially opened last year. It was operating in a small co-working space at WeWork Uptown. “Kashiyama had a successful first year in Charlotte, so we’re excited to see the evolution of the brand through our new location in SouthPark,” said BJ McCahill, Kashiyama’s U.S. vice president. “We’re following all COVID-related health and sanitization guidelines in our showroom, including resting and steaming all garments between try-ons, and look forward to introducing clients to our new space.” Kashiyama has launched a new custom shirt line. With over 100 different fabrics to choose from, clients can select from three different fabric levels – starter, standard and high grade – all of which are 100% cotton. Prices for starter shirts begin at $100 and feature classic colors and patterns. A standard shirt starts at $130 for a choice of durable, comfortable fabrics with anti-wrinkle properties. High-grade shirts use luxury fabrics from fabric mills with prices from $180. There are several customization options for the line of men’s shirts including 11 collars, five cuffs, four backs, three monogram styles, three plackets and three buttons. Adjustments can be made to neck size, shoulder width, sleeve length, stomach, hips, cuff size and shirt length. All shirts can be made shortsleeve for a more casual look or tuxedo-style for formal occasions. Most shirts ship in as few as 10 days. “The custom style options allow men with different fashion preferences to design the best-fitting shirt for work, special occasions or everyday wear,” McCahill said. Kashiyama recently launched a new 3D builder tool on its website.

Cooper pushed reopening up from its original expiration date of Friday, Sept. 11. On Monday, two popular gyms announced their plans to reopen in defiance of Cooper’s orders. Planet Fitness planned to restart its gyms this week, as did Crunch Fitness, reported the Raleigh News & Observer. Multiple reporters asked Cooper what data changed for him to push up his reopening plan. North Carolina had 23,540 confirmed active cases, 946 hospitalizations and 2,702 deaths on Tuesday. “The numbers are stable, and some of them are declining,” Cooper said in a news conference on Tuesday, Sept. 1. “That’s positive. We also want to do things to spur our economy, encourage people to exercise. This is a dimmer switch, a careful step that we’re making.” Cooper’s reopening plan won’t help gyms and bowling alleys survive the financial damage of the shutdowns, owners say. The 30% capacity restrictions are too strict for many to make ends meet. In Concord, Steve Pinkerton watched as Vitality Fitness’s revenues plummeted 80% in April and flatlined in May. He doesn’t expect to recover for months. Some of his tenants never will. He’s already lost a dance studio and another small business. Almost a third of his monthly lease revenue is gone, but his mortgage remains. “The long-term shutdowns have crushed these gyms,” Pinkerton said. “You’re taking away this healthy outlet from people. But

Kashiyama has not only moved to Sharorn Square, but also launched a new custom shirt line and e-commerce features. Photo courtesy of Kashiyama

don’t worry, ABC stores will still be open.” Cooper will not reopen bars. After 167 days of lockdowns, bars owners say their businesses won’t survive. “We know that some businesses are still closed and people are hurting,” Cooper said. “The more we do to slow the spread of this virus, the more we can speed this dimmer switch. … I want everybody to work hard so these businesses can be open.” Dr. Mandy Cohen, secretary for the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services, said COVID-19 trends were stable but still too high. She wants to see the percent of positive tests decline to 5% or less. The damage to the economy could last two to three years. For businesses targeted with restrictions for health risks, up to 40% of businesses won’t survive, says Michael Walden, N.C. State University economist and member of the governor’s N.C. Economic Recovery Group. “My guess is that a lot of gyms will reopen if they’ve been able to keep afloat over the last six months,” Walden said. “But they may not be able to survive, because the revenue just isn’t there. And a lot of people may not go back.” The economy won’t be the same as before the coronavirus, Walden said. He predicts one in 10 businesses won’t make it through the economic downturn. Workers will also face faster automation. “The virus is ruling the economy,” Walden said. “We’ve had to sacrifice the economy with shutdowns in order to save people. We’re still looking at that tradeoff. We’re not going to get the economy and health back on the same track until we get a vaccine.”

The Regional Weekly • Sept. 4, 2020 • Page 3A

NEWS BRIEFS ment Ordinance. Indian Trail residents with experience in these areas can apply at www.indiantrail.org.

Meck. County announces Labor Day closings

Atrium Health has been giving away masks to underserved areas of the community. Photo courtesy of Atrium Health

Atrium Health gives 1M masks CHARLOTTE – Atrium Health has distributed more than one million free masks in the Charlotte region. Of that, more than 700,000 masks have been distributed to the area’s most vulnerable populations, including the Latinx and African American communities, the elderly and to atrisk youth. Atrium Health forged a coalition with Mecklenburg County and several leading businesses in the region to distribute more than 2 million free masks in Charlotte and surrounding communities, with a specific focus on those in high-vulnerability zip codes and to local small businesses. “This public-private partnership has become a national example of how business leaders, health professionals and government officials can work together to make a significant and positive impact on the community and spur our local economy,” said Dr. David Callaway, chief of operational and disaster medicine at Atrium Health. Visit www.AtriumHealth.org/freemasks for a list of locations and times when residents can pick up masks.

Shelter shifting drive-thru food pantry to twice a month MONROE – The Community Shelter of Union County has changed its weekly drive-thru food pantry to twice a month. Pantries will be held on alternating weeks, once a month in the morning and once in the evening. “The change will make the distribution easier for food clients, who will receive more food at each distribution and will have to make fewer trips,” said Victoria Maye, onsite operations director. The pantry is open to any Union County resident experiencing a food need. Participants are asked to take an ID or a piece of mail with name and address to establish residency. From March to Aug. 20, residents have received 248,656 pounds of pantry food at the distributions. Food has been given to 4,897 households with 18,425 family members, including 1,859 senior citizens, 8,921 adults and 7,645 children. Visit www.UnionShelter.org to make a donation to support its food, shelter and rehousing programs.

Indian Trail has open seats INDIAN TRAIL – The Town of Indian Trail has one opening on its planning board and two openings on the board of adjustment. Terms for both boards are one year. Boards and committees typically meet once a month and are appointed by town council after applying. The planning board reviews future growth within the town and ensures rezoning requests and conditional use permits are consistent with current plans and regulations. The board of adjustment decides appeals and interpretations of the Unified Develop-

CARDS (continued from page 1A)

A few recipients also suggested more people and now Somervell sends 35 cards a week. Marie Ball, 78, of Matthews, has been friends with Somervell for years after meeting at the Levine Senior Center. Ball said she felt immediate joy the first time she got one of Somervell’s cards. It wasn’t long before she got another one and another one. Now, they come regularly and without fail, she said. “Everybody is finding so much joy in getting them because here we are stuck in the house and we can’t go anywhere,” Ball said. “It feels special because you know someone took it upon themselves to do this and it came from the heart. It’s a gift from the heart.” Ball looks forward to getting Somervell’s cards each week. She likes them so much she displays them around her house and uses them as bookmarks. One of her favorite cards has a frowning face on the front and says, “I’ve had it with COVID-19!” The inside says, “I’ve gone fishing!” “They are the cutest cards,” Ball said. “I wouldn’t get rid of one of them for anything.” “She’s a talented lady who

CHARLOTTE – Mecklenburg County offices and services will be closed on Monday, Sept. 7, for the Labor Day holiday. This includes all units of the Department of Social Services, the Tax Office, Elections Office, the Register of Deeds Office and the Land Use and Environmental Services Agency offices. Recreation and senior centers, aquatic facilities, the health department, library branches and county solid waste facilities will also be closed. City of Charlotte Solid Waste Services will provide collection services on Monday. Parks, nature preserves and greenways will remain open. CharMeck 311 will close Monday. Callers can report water, sewer, storm water and animal issues via an automated service that dispatches assistance.

First COVID-19 ambassadors start this month CHARLOTTE – Mecklenburg County has hired its first six COVID ambassadors. They are expected to start working in the community next week. “These ambassadors are a critical addition to our public health team,” said Angela Lee, assistant public health director for preventative health. “They’ll not only work to support our current pandemic outreach and education, but they will also help us directly engage with businesses, residents and community groups.” Ambassadors will educate businesses to support voluntary compliance with county, state and federal regulations concerning COVID-19. They will provide community outreach and education on all prevention measures, such as wearing a mask, waiting six feet apart and washing your hands. “As our numbers improve, we have to remain focused on those efforts that are making a difference,” said Gibbie Harris, Public Health Director. “We see these ambassadors as part of our county’s ongoing COVID response.”

Times have changed, our mission has not. Caring professionals dedicated to quality services in a community where our Members live longer, healthier and happier lives. The Weller Life.

Weddington Elementary transitions to remote learning MONROE – Union County Public Schools has closed Weddington Elementary to students and staff through Sept. 7 after a staff member tested positive for COVID-19. Students and staff will work remotely until the school reopens Sept. 8. UCPS says several staff members and students may have been exposed to the virus. The district worked with the staffer and Union County Public Health to determine who may have been in close contact.

Eagle Scout projects benefit Waxhaw Parks & Recreation WAXHAW – A pair of Boy Scouts from Troop 120 recently finished Eagle Scout projects that will benefit the Waxhaw Parks & Recreation Department. Dena Sabinske shared the projects publicly Aug. 25 during a town commission meeting. Elijah Trubinsky installed six bat houses at 12 Mile Creek. “This is a wonderful eco project to help us with mosquitoes, especially around the creek area,” Sabinske said. “You can now tell a difference. It really does help out with the environment.” Christian Younger built an information board with plexiglass at H.C. Nesbit Park.

is always helping someone else and wants to make other people feel good,” Ball added. “I’m telling you, I can’t wait to get my next card because they’re all different and they’re all stuff she just makes up out of her head.” Iris Devore, 91, of Matthews, said she’s been “shut in” during the pandemic, so she’s grateful when she gets one of Somervell’s cards in the mail. “They’re beautiful and very uniquely made,” Devore said. “I’m saving them for my children to see because I think it’s a different way to remember people and it’s special because you’re the only one this is for.” One of Devore’s favorite cards compares a caterpillar to a butterfly. She likes the colors and the meaning behind the message. “We can start from nothing almost and you don’t know what’s possible through the years,” she said. Somervell wasn’t expecting such a positive reaction from her cards. She thinks people like them because they know the effort that goes into sending something through the mail. Many recipients call or text when they get one and some even send her something back. “There’s something special about mailing a card. Some-

body took the time to sit down and write you a message and write down your address,” Somervell said. “Texts are nice and sometimes they take effort, but a card you can hold onto.” In addition to the cards, Somervell also knits hats for the Boys and Girls Club and makes jewelry. She used to teach a jewelry-making class at the Levine Senior Center and some of her pieces can be found at Matthews HELP Center’s Backporch Treasures. But she gives most of what she makes away to people she meets – store clerks, restaurant workers, nurses and cancer patients – to brighten their day. “If I can connect with someone on a friendly basis, then that person might reach out to someone else,” Somervell said. She said it’s important to reach out and build kindness because you never know what it might do for somebody, especially those working in the midst of the pandemic. “Maybe they go home and instead of thinking, ‘I’ve been on my feet all day’ they think, ‘Oh, maybe I am appreciated,’” Somervell said. “I think all the kindness and appreciation we can show is what’s going to get us through.”

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Page 4A • The Regional Weekly • Sept. 4, 2020

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GREENWICH (continued from page 1A)

Jerry Morse said. "A lot less appealing if I was to live in that area. Somewhere along the line, they have redesigned it to just be townhomes and homes, which really fits into that area.” Mayor Pro Tem Marcus McIntyre liked the project's approach. “Where the townhomes are proposed, they do fit in terms of what's there being constructed,” McIntyre said. “I think it's a good compromise in terms of removing the apartments and coming in with less density.” Some neighbors of the 58.4-acre site disagree. Throughout the rezoning process, Greenwich Downs was met with backlash from residents of Bonterra Village and Annandale, who have reached out to town council regarding concerns about public schools, traffic, water and sewer. Town Planning Director Brandi Deese clarified that Indian Trail's rezoning process doesn't allow applicants to go before the planning board without verifying utilities are in order for their proposed projects. “Union County Public Works is currently working

The red dashes represent annexation boundaries while yellow lines show current parcels. Photo courtesy of Town of Indian Trail

on an equalization tank that will increase capacity that could accommodate most of these projects,” Deese told the council. If the county can stick to its predicted December 2021 time frame for the infrastructure improvement, there won't even be a delay

HOMES (continued from page 1A)

station, which Waxhaw Town Engineer Matt Hubert says will serve existing downtown areas and future residential growth alike. “It will provide several million dollars in tap fees to the county to help them kickstart a lot of other capital improvement projects they have online,” Hubert said. “And this has been done in good faith. This is completely separate of the Preserve being approved or denied.” Discussions about the Preserve have been underway since July 2019, even though Town Manager Jeffrey Wells says the process typically takes around five months. "Usually that's about right," Wells said. "But sometimes you have a larger project. Sometimes you have more iterations and things you got to work through. And sometimes you have surprises like COVID-19, so this one's been strung out a little bit more than most." Without this rezoning, the site plan would not be possible. While the overall housing density across the 212 acres fits the limit set forth by the original zoning, the new classification lets developers clump the houses tighter in certain sections. “The reason behind that is to be able to allow for more dedication of open space for a home owner's association or other public type of ownership,” Wells said. “That area is preserved into the future.” Commissioner Tracy Wesolek was against the project, arguing smart growth is good but the Preserve isn't smart. “When I drive along Rehobeth and Sims, I immediately notice the winding scenic roads and beautiful horse farms,” Wesolek said. “It reminds me of how Providence

in the developer's plans for Greenwich Downs. “Union County Public Works ultimately holds the keys to that," Deese said. "[Developers] have indicated that this is at their risk to move forward, so obtaining water and sewer from the county would be on them.”

Road and Waxhaw-Marvin Road used to look before the large land developers transformed the area. It was great to see an area that has still maintained the heritage Waxhaw was known for.” Wells emphasized the opportunity as a rare one. “I feel like you're really making a choice between either allowing a development there at this time or not allowing anything there for the foreseeable – perhaps forever – future,” Wells said. “That's what the decision really comes down to.” Based on the findings of a traffic impact analysis, developers have agreed to pay $600,000 to the town for roadway improvements such as stoplights, roundabouts or turn lanes at the intersections of N.C. 75 and Old Providence Road and N.C. 75 and 16. Developers will also install a stoplight at the neighborhood's main Rehobeth Road entrance. “We're already playing catch up with the traffic and roads,” Wesolek said. “So is swapping money for more cars really worth it? “It may be a few years before we feel the effects from this new traffic, but Rehobeth and Sims roads will feel the immediate effect of construction traffic consisting of dump trucks, logging trucks and heavy equipment on a very curvy road.” The town communicates with UCPS about projects like this one, so the school system has the information it needs to prepare and a chance to give feedback. UCPS Planning Manager Don Ogram said he doesn't expect an immediate impact on school enrollment as a result of this project, according to Wells. Commissioners received over 200 emails and letters from residents about the Preserve.

NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA MECKLENBURG COUNTY In the District Court COMPLAINT FOR CHILD CUSTODY

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The Regional Weekly • Sept. 4, 2020 • Page 5A

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SPORTS The Regional Weekly • Sept. 4, 2020 • Page 1B

COVID-19 S E S P I L C E

e Seasons will b blic, different for pu ls private schoo

S T R O P S FALL

Schools get revised 2020-21 schedule by Yustin Riopko Contributor

Sports are on for the 2020-21 school year, but things will look a bit different in the face of COVID-19. The N.C. High School Athletic Association has decided to move forward with a modified schedule its board of directors believes will counter the present health risks. Dr. Josh Bloom, of the NCHSAA's sports medicine advisory committee, called the decision-making process an exercise in balance. “While there are risks with resuming NCHSAA-sanctioned athletics, it has also become very clear that there are significant negative consequences with not providing this option to student-athletes,” Bloom said. “While the consequences of not participating may be more difficult to quantify than the risks of a COVID-19 infection, we must recognize and acknowledge that these consequences of not participating are real, and they are grave." Bloom cited guidance from coaches, structure and discipline from games and camaraderie and excitement from competing as important benefits. The board also wanted fairness between sports, said NCHSAA commissioner Que Tucker. “We want all of our sports to have the opportunity to play an equal number of games,” Tucker said. “Or to at least know that each sport is being treated equitably.” Nevertheless, the NCHSAA decided not to schedule an indoor track season for the 2020-21 school year, believing it to be sufficiently similar to outdoor track and field. Tucker said facility constraints and the difficulty of conducting large meets indoors while still needing to social distance also factored into that decision. In another action item, the board chose to leave decisions regarding access to locker and weight rooms up to individual schools.

Justin Vick Managing Editor

Prep sports plan is better than nothing

eryone,” Pearman said. “The track and field program was better because of it.” Durant's passing reminds Pearman of the importance of living each day to the fullest and learning from the lessons God is teaching you through the people he puts in your path. He read from the New Testament's Second Epistle to Timothy. “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now

e usually publish an ode to Friday Night lights around this time each fall, but COVID-19 has eclipsed the high school sports season much like everything else. Times used to be simple. This week last year, we were wowed by Weddington's Will Shipley rushing for 188 yards and scoring three touchdowns in a 3319 win over Porter Ridge. We also marveled over Marvin Ridge's Alicia Davis and Mac Russ each recording 13 kills to defeat a great Ardrey Kell volleyball program, 3-0. Fast forward to fall 2020 and I'm afraid the most exciting highlights we'll have to talk about are the scrambling of bureaucrats postponing and canceling games as COVID-19 continues to spread in our community. We've already seen the N.C. Independent Schools Athletic Association delay the start of every fall sport. Its public schools counterpart, the N.C. High School Athletics Association, has shifted entire sports programs to different seasons. Public school football resumes in late February for a seven-game regular season. That's the equivalent of a conference

see COACH, Page 3B

see VICK, Page 4B

see SCHEDULE, Page 3B

Country Day mourns loss of track coach by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

CHARLOTTE – The Charlotte Country Day School community is mourning the loss of track and field coach Murtonda Durant, who passed away Aug. 23 at age of 54. Durant was an All-American track star at UMass Boston from 1984 to 1989. She helped the Beacons win indoor and outdoor national championships. She also won titles of her own. Her 4X400 relay team won four NCAA titles.

She had been part of Country Day's track program for 10 years. She joined the cross country staff last fall. Al Pearman, head track coach at Charlotte Country Day, was among several speakers paying tribute to Durant during a memorial service held Aug. 30 at New Waves of Joy Baptist Church in Charlotte. Pearman credited Coach M's love, devotion and insight for helping lift the program. “I'm convinced that God gifted her with an extraordinary capacity to care, because she cared passionately about everything and ev-

Page 2B • The Regional Weekly • Sept. 4, 2020

Editor’s picks: 10 teams to watch this year Girls cross country

Boys cross country

1. Cuthbertson The defending 3A champions lose state runner-up Gabriella Castro to graduation, but the Cavaliers still have Lillian Nasta, who as a freshman finished 10th overall at the final meet and senior Madeline Hill, who finished second at regionals. Sophomore Marissa Bosland, senior Leah Helms and sophomore Alyssa Preisano will keep them strong.

1. Providence Day Ben Hovis is coming off 4A Coach of the Year honors for guiding the Chargers to their third straight NCISAA 4A State Championship. Six runners finished in the top 11 of the state meet, including returning seniors Christian Landis, Colter Nichols and John Alfred Smith. Landis was an individual state champion as a sophomore and state runner-up as a junior. Needless to say, Landis will light up trails this year.

2. Weddington Weddington finished 2019 as the third best team in 3A cross country, but 45 days earlier, the Warriors edged out Cuthbertson to win the Union County Championships with five runners in the top eight. They'll continue to be state title contenders with senior Anna Ritter, juniors Alyx Beausoleil and Emma Jones, and sophomores Paige Starkie and Audrey Wright. They excel at running as a pack.

2. Weddington The Warriors lost state 2A runner-up Jake Toomey to graduation, but the one-to-five split ranged from 33 to 41 seconds in three of the last four meets of 2019. Senior Wesley Larson will lead the pack this year. Coach Rick Spencer has plenty of weapons as seniors Sam Sanneman and Joseph Lowther, juniors Grayson Lucas and Haden Miller, and sophomore Caden Townshend were all part of a team that easily won conference and regional meets.

3. Marvin Ridge The Mavericks are a young, great pack running team. They finished fourth in 3A last year, buoyed by juniors Caroline Blanton, Riley Basinger and Kayla Basinger, who finished within nine seconds of each other. The team is rounded out by sophomores Lindsey Czaniecki, Dani Colling and Madalyn Finn, as well as junior Lindsey Blizzard. 4. Charlotte Latin The Hawks finished third in the NCISAA State XC Championships last fall, placing its fastest five in the top 25. Junior Mary Schleusner will set local, regional and state trails ablaze, but she lost two of her fastest teammates to graduation. Junior Madeleine Pease and sophomore Mary Cate Kiser are back. Senior Maria Lierenas Soto will likely join them up front. 5. Charlotte Country Day The Buccaneers lose three of their five fastest runners to graduation, including 4A champion Sophie Spada. Junior Harper Shaw is not chopped liver, as she came in eighth in the state meet. Junior Anna Maynard brings them another reliable runner. They'll need some runners from deeper down the roster to step up. 6. Providence Day School The Chargers are coming off a fifth-place finish in the NCISAA State XC Championships. Their five fastest runners return, including junior Ashley Horwitz, senior Lindsay Smith, senior Petra Caldwell, senior Caroline Sicard and junior Mia Streitberger.

The Cuthbertson girls cross country team won its third title in the past three seasons with (from left) Lily Nasta, Alyssa Preisano, Gabriella Castro (who graduated), Marissa Bosland and Madeline Hill. Photo courtesy of Kirk Walsh 7. Ardrey Kell The Knights won the conference and regional meets but came in ninth place after facing stiffer competition at the state level. They lost one impact senior, but senior Jenna Thornton, senior Giselle Russi, sophomore Taylor Fenton and junior Caitlin Peck are a strong core. Juniors Paige Harvey and Julia Van Dine will likely step up to build on last year's success.

3. Ardrey Kell The Knights were a well-oiled machine last year, finishing sixth in state 4A and placing five runners in the top 10 of the conference championship and regionals. They lost two seniors to graduation, but have seniors Murphy Smith, Steven Smith and Charlie Walker. The next tier of guys – seniors Jason Kudumula and Arvind Kandala – should progress well enough to keep them in state contention.

8. Myers Park The Mustangs finished the year as 4A cross country's 12th best team. They were a great team, placing five of their runners within the top 17 of regionals, but they lose two seniors to graduation. Junior Molly Jahn is the fastest on the team, followed by seniors Sarah Holshouser, Megan Merritt and Claire Hargrove, as well as sophomore Lily Pareso.

4. Cuthbertson The Cavaliers immediately followed Weddington in the conference, regional and state championship meets. That means Cuthbertson was the third best team in the state in 3A cross country. Coach Kirk Walsh lost Davis Seik to graduation, but he still has top 10 state runners in senior Mickey Schihl and junior Gage Austin. Seniors Shaun Raughley, William Walsh, Keegan Burr, as well as sophomore Finn O'Shea round out the team.

9. Providence The Panthers have found themselves second only to Ardrey Kell in conference and regional play. Their seven best runners return, including sophomores Key Bennett and Keely Bradle and juniors Tate Arrington and Krysta Glova. This young team could very well make the jump to becoming a top 10 team in 4A. 10. Covenant Day Covenant Day loses three of its four fastest runners in last year's NCISAA State XC Championships, in which they placed sixth. They get back seniors Hannah Beth Brown, and Olivia Mueth.

5. Marvin Ridge Marvin Ridge finished fifth in the state in 3A cross country last season, but the Mavericks lost three seniors to graduation. Coach Kailyn Lockie still has senior Cole Jackson to set the pace. Jackson finished 12th in the state meet. The lineup also features junior Aneesh Duggirala, sophomore RJ Gajan and senior Marcelo Young.

6. Myers Park Coach Lamont Hayes has one of the fastest runners in North Carolina in senior Maddon Muhammad, but he has to build up speed in the rest of the pack if they want to challenge for a 4A state title. Myers Park finished 11th as a team in the 4A state final despite Muhammad coming in third place overall. Plus they lost a couple of seniors from their top five. Otherwise, they'll dominate most other meets. 7. Providence The Panthers could mature into a very competitive team at the state level this season. Led by Wick Hatch, who is now a senior, they had a great team meet in the SoMeck 7 Conference Championship last year and finished third in the NCHSAA 4A West Regional. Junior Jon Lakeman and seniors Garrett Rice and Carter Trimble could make huge gains this season. 8. South Mecklenburg Maximous Lira, Nathan Sullivan and Clark Gorman ran individually in the state championships last year, but they could be joined by the rest of their Sabres team in the NCHSAA 4A Championships. This is an example of another young team that could mature to give Ardrey Kell and Providence a run for their money in the SoMeck 7 Conference. 9. Charlotte Country Day Country Day was an extremely strong team last year with 29-second and 37-second differentials between the fastest and fifth fastest runners in conference and state meets. They finished fifth in the state meet. Sophomore Pete Pignetti will likely join frontrunners junior Connor Kleiderer, senior AJ Chardiet and sophomore Myers Gaston, but they need someone else to emerge. 10. Charlotte Catholic The Cougars excel at pack running. The difference between Charlotte Catholic's first and fifth fastest runners in the state meet last fall was a mere 26 seconds. The only team to do better was state champion Chapel Hill. Ian Pierce finished 95th in the state meet to lead his team, making him one of just seven freshmen to place in the top 100. Sophomores Jay Sedam and AJ Painter, as well as junior Lawrence Nazarian, could help the Cougars improve on their sixth-place spot in regionals and 15th-place finish in states.

Playing volleyball at Marvin Ridge can be intimidating with all the banners. CMG file photo

Volleyball 1. Marvin Ridge The Mavericks are coming off a 30-4 season that includes an undefeated Southern Carolina 3A conference crown. Marvin Ridge lost Alicia Davis to graduation, but coach Brook Hammers still has plenty of weapons, including senior stars Mac Russ and Shriya Madhavaram. 2. Ardrey Kell Coach Zoe Bell had her most talented team since the 2012 state championship, but the Knights couldn't stop Green Hope from winning its fourth consecutive title in last year's state final. Junior Alexis Shelton, who led the team with 274 kills, and all-conference senior Mya Duggan will be standouts on this year’s squad. 3. Providence Providence went undefeated in the SoMeck 7 only to lose to conference foe Ardrey Kell in the state playoffs. To add insult to injury, Providence had defeated Ardrey Kell three times already. All-conference players Katie Cruise, a junior, and Madison Cail, a senior, will lead the Panthers. 4. Myers Park Coach Bettie Berry is coming off her best season at Myers Park since 2007. The Mustangs went undefeated in the Southwestern conference en route to a 25-4 record that included a playoff upset over Pinecrest. Once dubbed by their coach as the “Freshman Four,” Cleo Shannon, Ashlyn Hanson, Amani Mohammud and Cece Chavez return as seniors. 5. Country Day The Buccaneers have come a long way since Anna Moore started coaching the team in 2016. The team went 7-26 that first year, including 1-9 in conference. Last season, they finished 18-5, losing to the eventual state champion in the playoffs. Senior Kayla Spangler, who earned a place on the NCISAA AllState Volleyball Team, returns as a senior.

6. Sun Valley Coach Rachel Henry and her Spartans are coming off their best season in over a decade with a 24-5 record. Their five losses came at the hands of Southern Carolina 3A conference foes Marvin Ridge and Weddington. Katie Pressley was lost to graduation, but Hailey Pearce returns after an impressive freshman campaign. 7. Porter Ridge The Pirates returned to the postseason for the first time since 2016 after tying Hickory Ridge for the second best record (11-3) in the Southwestern 4A conference. Coach Heather Welch enters her third season with seniors Savannah McIntosh and Shannon Brerwer and juniors Sydney Rutledge and Geneis Oriz. 8. Weddington Andrea Sanneman deserves a lot of credit for turning around a program suffering from three losing seasons when she started in 2018. Last year's 18-8 campaign is the best since 2009. Weddington also went 11-3 in the Southern Carolina 3A conference. The Warriors lost Miranda Powers to graduation but they still have junior Lyvia Trimp. 9. South Mecklenburg The Sabres were a step behind SoMeck 7 foes Ardrey Kell and Providence last season. The Sabres lost Halle McKellar and Hallsey Ferguson to graduation, but welcome back Isabella Castelloe, who made the all-conference team as a freshman. They also welcome new coach Alysha McCreary. The former Towson standout has coaching experience with the Carolina Juniors and Winthrop University. 10. Cuthbertson The Cavaliers finished the 2019 season with a 12-13 record (their first losing season since 2014) after dropping all of their conference games to Marvin Ridge, Sun Valley and Weddington. Jonathon Welch takes over the program this fall. In two years as coach of South Mecklenburg, Welch had the Sabres playing their best volleyball in over a decade

The Regional Weekly • Sept. 4, 2020 • Page 3B

High school football has been shifted to later in the month for private schools and February for public schools. We’ll have previews on those teams closer to the seasons. CMG file photo

SCHEDULE (continued from page 1B)

According to Jerry Simmons, president of the NCHSAA board of directors, there will still be some nuts and bolts to share in the coming weeks. Rule modifications, playoff formats and playing facilities are a few of the details the public can expect to learn more about further down the road. “I truly understand that today's announcement and plans will be – and in fact

COACH (continued from page 1B)

there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day – and not only to me but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” Several others spoke during the service, including some young people. One young man spoke of how Durant saved his life. Others spoke about how she inspired them through encouragement and support. Loved ones spoke of how she put family first. She was the one that would bring family together. She had a knack for listening to

already are – met with mixed emotions and mixed reactions,” Tucker said. “Our staff and our board members have worked extremely hard to present a plan that we believe will work. We respect as well as understand this passion, because we share that same passion.” The N.C. Independent Schools Athletic Association allowed full practice on Aug. 10 for every fall sport except football. Seasons begin in phases on Sept. 8, 14 and 21, though schools have the option to delay play until Feb. 22 to April 19.

the older generations as well as connecting with the younger ones through sports. The Rev. Reginald Murray recalled how he received an email Aug. 22 from Durant about how much she missed seeing the smiling faces of Murray and his wife at church services. Durant passed the next day. Murray acknowledged how race analogies came naturally during the service. “The race isn't a sprint, not even a marathon, but more like a relay, because she has now finished her leg of the race,” Murray said. “God took her away really at an opportune time for all of us when we're ahead of the race because we got to meet Murtonda Durant. She has passed on to us everything we need to finish the race.”

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NCHSAA regular seasons

First practice: Feb. 8 First contest: Feb. 26 Final contest: April 9

First practice: April 12 First contest: April 26 Final contest: June 11

Cross Country 10 meets, 2 per week First practice: Nov. 4 First contest: Nov. 16 Final contest: Jan. 8

Golf (boys & girls) 14 matches, 2 per week First practice: March 1 First contest: March 15 Final contest: April 30

Wrestling 14 duals, 2 per week First practice: April 12 First contest: April 26 Final contest: June 11

Volleyball 14 games, 2 per week First practice: Nov. 4 First contest: Nov. 16 Final contest: Jan. 8

Tennis (boys) 14 matches, 2 per week First practice: March 1 First contest: March 15 Final contest: April 30

NCISAA regular seasons

Swimming/Diving 10 meets, 2 per week First practice: Nov. 23 First contest: Dec. 7 Final contest: Jan. 30

Soccer (girls) 14 games, 2 per week First practice: March 1 First contest: March 15 Final contest: April 30

Basketball 14 games, 2 per week First practice: Dec. 7 First contest: Jan. 4 Final contest: Feb. 19

Softball 14 game, 2 per week First practice: March 1 First contest: March 15 Final contest: April 30

Soccer (boys) 14 games, 2 per week First practice: Jan. 11 First contest: Jan. 25 Final contest: March 12

Baseball 14 games, 2 per week First practice: April 12 First contest: April 26 Final contest: June 11

Lacrosse (boys & girls) 14 games, 2 per week First practice: Jan. 11 First contest: Jan. 25 Final contest: March 12

Tennis (girls) 14 matches, 2 per week First practice: April 12 First contest: April 26 Final contest: June 11

Football 7 games, 1 per week

Track & Field 10 meets, 2 per week

Cross Country First practice: Aug. 10 First contest: Sept. 8 Tennis (girls) First practice: Aug. 10 First contest: Sept. 8 Golf (girls) First practice: Aug. 10 First contest: Sept. 8 Field Hockey First practice: Aug. 10 First contest: Sept. 14 Volleyball First practice: Aug. 10 First contest: Sept. 14 Soccer (boys) First practice: Aug. 10 First contest: Sept. 14 Football First practice: Sept. 8 First contest: Sept. 21

Page 4B • The Regional Weekly • Sept. 4, 2020 Do what you have to do. basketball and football seasons. I can see many elite high school playCharlotte Lacrosse Report started a (continued from page 1B) ers electing to forego spring football in petition on Change.org to move the favor of preparing for their freshman start of the season to April 12 to preyear of college. Would a bonafide star vent multi-sport athletes from having schedule. Langston Wertz Jr., of The Charlotte like Weddington's Will Shipley benefit to choose one sport. The petition had Observer, reported how Myers Park more from demolishing out-matched nearly 2,300 signatures as of Aug. 31. There's a lot to pick apart with these had five college-caliber players, in- high school opponents or getting a cluding quarterbacks Owen and Aiden head start with his training at Clemson? plans to resume fall sports. These plans I can also see other players with are not perfect, but then again, they McCown, transfer to schools that have been allowed to practice sooner. The scholarship offers, not necessarily su- were never meant to be. Coronavirus perstars, making the same play. made sure of that. McCourns now play in Texas. Another issue we'll run into come I'm just surprised we're talking about If you are someone who believes in The York Times February is thatSyndication of players Sales havingCorporation to playing sports when districts like Charyour potential to play in the NFL or se- New Eighthbetween Avenue,sports. New York, N.Y. 10018lotte-Mecklenburg Schools are learning For example, cure a free college education via athletic 620choose For Information Call: 1-800-972-3550 lacrosseThursday, season overlaps with both scholarship, then I'm not mad at you. FortheRelease December 5, 2019remotely.

VICK

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The Regional Weekly • Sept. 4, 2020 • Page 5B

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(704) 909-7561 Kelly’s Painting

FREE ESTIMATES • INSURED

DeMARZO

Professional Interior Painting and Handyman Service Affordable Prices • Outstanding Customer Service Attention to Detail • Quality Workmanship

(704) 619-0253

Licensed & Insured Call today for a Free Estimate

“Affordable” Custom Moldings Picture Hanging Drywall Repairs Light Electric & Plumbing Storage Solutions

Paul Tant

Gutter Cleaning • Gutter Guard Pressure Washing • Tree Work • Polished Gutters Fully Insured

HOME REPAIRS & IMPROVEMENTS Repair & Replacement of: • Roofing • Siding • Gutters • Deck & Patio Repair/Paint • Carpentry • Rotten Wood Repair

Tony DeMarzo

Over 20 years experience | All work is guaranteed

704-918-6248 • mctoolmanservices@gmail.com www.mctoolman.com Roof to Floor and SO MUCH MORE...

Experienced s Insured s Reliable • PAINTING • ROT REPAIR • PLUMBING • FLOORING

• ELECTRICAL • CERAMIC TILE • KITCHEN/BATH RENOVATIONS

CALL ANYTIME FOR FREE ESTIMATES

980-253-9496

Your Home CONCRETE WORK •••I G W T ••• Exterior Specialists n

rusT

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

38 Years of Experience

Call Anytime!

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

Phone: (803)287-1971 | ptear50@gmail.com

980-622-7833

The handy Man

Piano Instruction -Quality, highly experienced teacher and performer -Ballantyne area

Drywall • Painting • Decks • Windows • Doors Framing • Roofing • Gutters • Siding Water Damage & All Types of Flooring • Tile Work Plumbing • Electrical • House Cleaning • Gutter Cleaning

•Beginners thru college level •Creative and innovative techniques •Development of performance skills including performing opportunities

Fully Insured • 20 Years Experience • Senior Discount

704-254-5381

Pat Moehring 704-564-4275

• Trail Building • Light Grading FREE ESTIMATES • Tractor • Small Dump Truck • Skid Loader 980-240-7358 • Trachoe • Concrete Demo 704-622-6460 • Bush Hogging • Small Trees Cut **We are licensed and insured** • Footings **We have been in business for 20 years**

BF Construction Services

or call Betty

Become a CAREGIVER with Home Instead Senior Care. We are looking for compassionate CAREGivers who encourage, stimulate and assist clients. Part-time flexible schedules are available. Call 704-344-0801, visit HomeInsteadCharlotte.com or e-mail Jackie@HomeInsteadCharlotte.com.

NOW HIRING Delivery Drivers! For our Union County Routes. Weekly Routes Available. Contact us at adsales@cmgweekly.com for details. BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES AVON - Earn Extra $$. Sell online or in person from home or work. Free website included. No inventory required. For more info, Call: 844-613-2230

HELP WANTED PART TIME NEWSPAPER DRIVERS NEEDED - Candidates must have a clean driving record, proof of auto insurance and be able to lift 50-75 lbs. Additionally, the ideal candidate can work Thursday, Friday, or both and can make a long-term commitment to grow their workload and earnings. Must be able to pass DMV background check. For more information, please contact: adsales@cmgweekly.com

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE St. Matthews – 5 wooded acres – Camping or building site $24,900. 124+ wooded acres, shared pond frontage – ideal recreational or homesite $329,900. EZ owner financing both lots. Call 330606-2465.

Veteran owned and operated

| NCUC: 4646 A+ BBB | DOT:A2998402 CALL TODAY FOR QUOTE! (704) 907-1777

HEALTH & MEDICAL With Medicare, shopping around is key. Compare FREE Quotes from A-Rated Carriers to Save on a Medigap Plan Today! Get Covered and Save!! Call 855-399-9915 Have a CPAP machine for sleep apnea? Get replacement FDA approved CPAP machine parts and supplies at little or no cost! Free sleep guide included! 855-808-0483! Suffering from an ADDICTION to Alcohol, Opiates, Prescription PainKillers or other DRUGS? There is hope! Call Today to speak with someone who cares. Call NOW 1-877-753-4281 Attention: Oxygen Users! Gain freedom with a Portable Oxygen Concentrator! No more heavy tanks and refills! Guaranteed Lowest Prices! Call the Oxygen Concentrator Store: 855-338-5462 Lung Cancer? Asbestos exposure in industrial, construction, manufacturing jobs, or military may be the cause. Family in the home were also exposed. Call 1-866-795-3684 or email cancer@breakinginjurynews.com. $30 billion is set aside for asbestos victims with cancer. Valuable settlement monies may not require filing a lawsuit.

Organizing & Delivery Local & Long-Distance Moves Packing & Unpacking Junk Removal Veteran Owned & Operated We will do the packing and cleaning for you! Assistance with storage and organization.

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

SATELLITE TV DIRECTV SELECT PACKAGE! Over 150 Channels, ONLY $35/ month (for 12 mos.) Order Now! Get a $100 AT&T Visa Rewards Gift Card (some restrictions apply) CALL 1-877-666-2821 DISH TV $59.99 For 190 Channels $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Call 1-855-419-7188 EXPIRES SOON: Switch to DISH + get $50 gift card (Courtesy of Satellite Deals)! Plus get Free Premium Channels for 3 mos. & Free Installation (up to 6 rooms)! Call 888753-3635

EDUCATION & INSTRUCTION AIRLINE MECHANIC TRAINING – Get FAA Technician certification. Approved for military benefits. Financial Aid if qualified. Job placement assistance. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance (866)724-5403

Call Bill

Your Best “STOP” For A Drip From a drip to a leak, turn to the Weekly Classifieds to turn those headaches off. Call to advertise

(704) 849-2261

NO SALES TAX

Page 6B • The Regional Weekly • Sept. 4, 2020

ON ALL CAMERAS & LENS PURCHASES

Cardinal Camera will pay your sales tax. Credit will be given back as a store credit for camera accessories.

CAROLINA FALL CAMERA EXPO EVENT SEPTEMBER 10-13

Stop in for Show Specials

Since 1937

OPEN SUNDAYS

Entire Store on Sale!

Third Generation Family Owned & Operated

ARBORETUM SHOPPING CENTER

next to Harris Teeter 3351 Pineville Matthews Rd. Suite 100 Charlotte

Kurt Seelig

www.cardinalcamera.com

WE BEAT AMAZON & INTERNET PRICING!

2 DAYS ONLY! SEPT. 11 & 12

CA$H FOR CAMERAS BRING IN YOUR USED CAMERA GEAR PLUS YOUR USED APPLE PRODUCTS

CHARLOTTE

704-541-7488

BRING IN ANY AD WE WILL BEAT THEIR PRICE!

CAMERA CLEAN & CHECK

Bring in your old gear and get CASH or an additional 10% in CARDINAL CREDIT when buying a new camera or lens.

Special Show Deal!

Greater Selection of Products!

Sensor Cleaning $49.99 Lens Calibrations $24.99

2 DAYS ONLY! SEPT. 11 & 12 Special Show Deal!

20% OFF

10% OFF

All Lighting & Backgrounds

All Tripods

Special Show Deal! Buy One Memory Card Get 2nd

25% OFF

IN-STOCK

PRE-ORDER

a7III

BODY ONLY! 24MP Full-Frame Exmor R BSI CMOS Sensor BIONZ X Image Processor & Front-End LSI 693-Point Hybrid AF System UHD 4K30p Video ‘ with HLG & S-Log3 Gammas

D7500

BODY ONLY!

20.9MP DX-Format CMOS Sensor EXPEED 5 Image Processor 3.2" 922k-Dot Tilting Touchscreen LCD 4K UHD Video Recording at 30 fps Multi-CAM 3500FX II 51-Point AF System 8 fps Shooting for Up to 100 Frames SnapBridge Bluetooth and Wi-Fi

$998.00

SPECIAL SHOW DISCOUNTS on Canon Lenses!

a7S III

WITH 18-55MM LENS 24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor DIGIC 4+ Image Processor 3.0" 920k-Dot LCD Monitor Full HD 1080/30p Video Recording 9-Point AF ISO 100-6400, Up to 3 fps Shooting Built-In Wi-Fi with NFC Scene Intelligent Auto Mode

5d IV

$449.00

AUTHORIZED CANON DEALER

BODY ONLY! 30.4MP Full-Frame CMOS Sensor DIGIC 6+ Image Processor 3.2" 1.62m-Dot Touchscreen LCD Monitor

CALL FOR SPECIAL PRICE!

$2499.00

12MP Full-Frame Exmor R BSI CMOS Sensor UHD 4K 120p Video 16-Bit Raw Output, HLG & S-Log3 Gammas 759-Point Fast Hybrid AF 3.0" 1.44m-Dot Vari-Angle Touchscreen

PRE-ORDER

a6400 With a 16-50mm lens 24.2MP APS-C Exmor CMOS Sensor Real-Time Eye AF XGA Tru-Finder 2.36m-Dot OLED EVF 3.0" 921.6k-Dot 180° Tilting Internal UHD 4K Video, S-Log3

$999.00

100-400mm Micro Four Thirds System 200-800mm (35mm Equivalent) Aperture Range: f/5 to f/22 Two Super HR Elements, Two HR Elements

$1499.00 IN-STOCK!

Call us to rent equipment!

6 TAPES FOR

$99

Done In House!

Tape transfers to DVD

One Tape $19.99 Not to be combined with any other offer. With coupon. Exp. 9-30-20.

Scan Slides to DVD

49¢

EACH

35mm only. Not to be combined with any other offer. With coupon. Exp. 9-30-20.

10% OFF Reel to Reel Movies to DVD

Not to be combined with any other offer. With coupon. Exp. 9-30-20.