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Friday, Oct. 2, 2020 • Vol. 13 • No. 40
ABOUT US P.O. BOX 1104 Matthews, NC 28106 (704) 849-2261
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County reports COVID-19 cluster at school by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com
Eight days after Gov. Roy Cooper announced public schools can soon welcome back K-5 students, Mecklenburg County reported its first COVID-19 cluster at a school. County data released Sept. 29 showed Covenant Day School in Matthews reported five cases of COVID-19. Public Health Director Gib-
bie Harris said the county has had cases at other schools, but this was the first one that rose to what’s considered “cluster level." “What we’re seeing is that most of the cases are coming from outside exposures, not in the school setting,” she said. “Our schools have been doing a fairly good job with the masking and social distancing.” Harris said the initial clusters give the health depart-
ment an opportunity to make sure schools are doing what they need to do to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools is planning to welcome pre-kindergarten students back Oct. 12 and K-5 students on a rotation starting Nov. 2. “At this point, we’re comfortable with the plans the schools have put in place,” she said. “We’re comfortable with the training they have made avail-
able to teachers. As with all of our plans, it’s all about the implementation. "We’re supportive of in-class instruction at some level within our community. We’ll continue to work with the schools in addressing any issues that come up as they move back into the classrooms.” County Manager Dena Diorio encouraged the community not to let its guard down as schools continue to reopen.
Hello, Joe
ENGAGING THE PUBLIC Mint Hill prepares to plan for the future Visitors poured in before COVID-19, 1B
Mint Hill Mayor Brad Simmons and commissioners want to get citizens in the door of town hall to give input on a much-anticipated update to the comprehensive plan. CMG file photos by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com
Safe treatment Atrium Health launches COVID registry, 2B
Right fit Passenger seats save lives, 3B
What is ... cool? Games spice up college courses at ECPI, 4A
ALSO: Catherine Truitt and Jen Mangrum faced off Sept. 24 in a debate for state superintendent. Candidates discussed Opportunity Scholarships and reopening schools during the event, which was hosted by the N.C. Institute of Political Leadership and Spectrum News NC, Page 3A
Meier is ready to listen by Justin Vick
justin@cmgweekly.com
Tourist boom
Area gets funding for surfacing, 1B
Diorio
DISTRICT 5 ELECTION:
Former VP Biden visits region, 2A
Filling potholes
Harris
Joel Madden told Mint Hill commissioners how he grew up playing in the forests and fields that became the Cheval subdivision and how he advanced through Bain Elementary, Northeast Middle and Independence High. After college, he moved back to his hometown to raise a family. “I love this community for all the same reasons I’m sure you do,” Madden told commissioners.“I’m excited about helping guide our community growth and development.” Madden is a key cog in the project team commissioners selected Sept. 22 to update the Mint Hill Comprehensive Plan. The team is a partnership between Merrick and Nealon Planning. While interviewing finalists for the opportunity, Mayor Brad Simmons mentioned his concerns about ensuring citizen participation. He wanted to know how well the firms integrate the community into the year-long process. Meg Nealon, of Nealon Planning, said her team’s approach
Meg Nealon, of Nealon Planning, said her firm has seen increased public involvement due to virtual meetings during the pandemic.
to getting people involved is multi-faceted and includes surveys, emails, social media, community meetings, focus groups, interactive mapping and events. Nealon said the team will examine how to manage growth while preserving the town’s character. She mentioned how they’ve worked with communities like Harrisburg and Morrisville in which they created downtowns from scratch. Another avenue they’ll examine
is mobility, such as how the town connects with highways as well as interacts with future highway and transit projects. Madden specializes in municipal infrastructure. “My contribution to the team is to share knowledge of the town that can only come being immersed in this community my entire life,” he said. “Balance the memories of growing up here with the town’s vision for the future.”
Following the 2016 election, Laura Meier went with her sister to the Women’s March on Washington. The event, attended by hundreds of thousands of women across the country, was life-changing for Meier. She remembers a sign during the march that said, “I always wondered why someone wasn’t doing something Meier about that, then I realized I am somebody.” “It’s everything that I believe,” Meier said. “I can speak up and do this, too. From that point on, I haven’t stopped.” She returned home and connected with other inspired women who formed the Charlotte Women’s March. She has also volunteered with local election campaigns, including District 5 Commissioner Susan Harden. As word spread that Harden was not running for a second term in 2020, people began asking Meier what she thought of the south Charlotte seat. Supporters nudged her to run, suggesting now may be her time to lead. She finds herself on the ballot across from Republican challenger Matthew Ridenhour, a former county commissioner Harden defeated in the 2018 election. Meier believes her greatest strength is listening. This extends to constituents and experts. Harden was a big supporter of using a quarter-cent sales tax to fund the arts, but Mecklenburg County residents shot down the measure in last year’s election. Meier believes commissioners have to listen to see MEIER, Page 5A
Neighbors speak out against rezoning project by Yustin Riopko Contributor
Developers are looking to build a combination of apartments and townhomes at South Trade Street and Weddington Road just south of the MARA sports facility. If town commissioners grant the rezoning, Lat Purser & Associates will put 131 units on 16.83 acres. Of those, 37 would be single-family attached dwellings. The rest will be apartments. Developers are calling the project Matthews Village. Neighbors from nearby Brighton, Courtney and Hampton Green emailed commissioners and
attended a virtual board meeting to give input. Their biggest concern was traffic. “It’s like playing Frogger if you wanna cross the street anywhere near there,” neighbor Lindsay Sawey told commissioners Sept. 14. A traffic analysis by Kimley Horn & Associates predicts the development would add 950 new trips daily, including 62 and 48 during the morning and afternoon peak hours respectively. Residents also brought up eroding green space, rising school enrollment and declining property values. “I don’t think anybody would want to have their government dictate what they could or couldn’t do with their property, or sell their prop-
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erty,” Commissioner John Urban said, noting he received some emails asking leaders to keep it as a greenway or park space. "I want to reiterate to everybody that we don’t own this piece of property.” Deborah Olmstead is the member manager at Williams Business Properties LLC, the group that owns the land. “It will be a gateway to the town of Matthews. If not this – and we have to sell this property – then what project, I ask the neighbors," Olmstead said. "There will be a project. There will be something on this property. And it is gonna increase the traffic and our schools but that’s progress.” Commissioners could decide on the rezoning as early as Oct. 12.
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Page 2A • The Weekly • Oct. 2, 2020
Biden talks racial, wealth inequality during Charlotte visit by Karie Simmons karie@cmgweekly.com
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Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden opened with the pandemic during a Q&A in Charlotte on Sept. 23, noting how the illness is disproportionally affecting people of color. Biden mentioned evidence that some racial and ethnic groups – particularly Black Americans – are experiencing more serious illness and death due to COVID-19 than white Americans. This is due to social and economic factors that increase their risk, he said. “It’s just sort of emblematic of the inequality that exists and the circumstances that exist,” Biden said. “The cycle that exists is that the African American community by and large finds itself at the bottom of the economic heap when things are good," he added. "When things get bad, they're the first ones in the hole, and when things get better, they're the last ones out.” The former vice president’s visit
Former Vice President Joe Biden made his first official campaign visit to the Charlotte region on Sept. 23.
was tied to an outdoor “Black Economic Summit” at Camp North End in Charlotte, where he delivered remarks and then took questions from Black local business owners and community leaders. He touched on his plan, “Build Back Better,” which includes leveraging more than $150 billion in
new capital and opportunities for small businesses owned by people of color and investing $70 billion over 10 years for Historically Black Colleges and Universities. If Biden is elected, he wants to raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour. He said this will help the economy as a whole, as people will
Vick: Hyperlocal news makes me hyper-dizzy
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NEWSLETTER
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his week marks a special milestone for Charlotte Media Group as we reintroduce Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly, Union County Weekly and South Charlotte Weekly to our print readers. As COVID-19 began to spread across the Charlotte region in March, we merged our print newspapers into what became The Regional Weekly. We appreciate readers being patient with our regional format. There will still be some regional content in these editions, but we are work-
ing to make it more relevant and compelling to readers in all of the zip codes we serve. Moving forward, we will be more intentional about what runs in the print edition. We’re not where we were prior to the pandemic, but we’re scratching and clawing our way back. If you are interested in helping us, you can make a single donation to our voluntary pay program (www.cmgweek ly.com) or you can sign up for membership into our CMG Insiders program (on our websites), which has incentives built in. Otherwise, you can send me story ideas or submissions at justin@ cmgweekly.com. I want to thank everybody that has contributed to our campaigns so far as well an anyone who has emailed me information in recent months.
have more money to spend. “No one in America should be working a 40-hour-a-week job and still be living in poverty,” he said. “It should not exist.” He also wants to raise the corporate tax rate from 21% to 28%. “I’m not trying to punish anybody,” Biden said. “It’s time everybody starts paying your fair share.” In response to a question about relief for restaurants affected by the pandemic, Biden bashed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. He said too much of that money went to big companies, instead of companies with less than 50 employees. Biden said he will make sure small businesses get funding to pay for gloves, masks, sanitation and social distancing tools (like signage and dividers) needed to open safely. “I promise you, I guarantee you, if I’m elected, you’ll get both the PPE, you’ll get also the money to be able to open and additional money not only to maintain your employees, but to maintain an open place,” Biden said.
Community shelter provides eviction relief to renters The Community Shelter of Union County is providing more eviction prevention relief funds to renters in Union County, thanks to federal and state grants. “Although the CDC ordered a nationwide suspension of certain residential evictions until the end of the year, we’re continuing to provide support now,” Chief Operations Officer Melissa McKeown said. “COVID-furloughed renters who are unable to pay their rent now will have no way of catching up on even more months of rent once the moratorium is lifted.” The eviction-relief funding will not only help households but also local landlords. “Most of our landlords are
small to medium business owners,” McKeown said. “They have been without rental income for months, too.” The criteria for eviction relief was established by the grantors, not the shelter. Renters must provide proof that their non-payments are the direct result of the COVID pandemic and that without assistance, they would become homeless. People should visit www. UnionShelter.org/EvictionRelief to see the criteria and documentation needed, fill out the form and forward it to the shelter. The grants make limited funding available through December 2020 and do not affect homeowners.
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The Weekly • Oct. 2, 2020 • Page 3A
Truitt, Mangrum debate Opportunity Scholarships, reopening schools by Julie Havlak Carolina Journal News Service
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RALEIGH – Reopening schools is the top priority of Catherine Truitt, the Republican candidate for state superintendent. Truitt also wants to defend the Opportunity Scholarship program, but her Democratic opponent, Jen Mangrum, contends learning must take a back seat to teacher safety. Opportunity Scholarships provide low-income students up to $4,200 per year to help pay tuition at the private school of their choice. About 12,285 students received the scholarship in 2019. Mangrum bashes the program as a threat to public schools and a parasite on funding. Whoever wins in November will have the authority to manage the state’s $10 billion education budget, hundreds of contracts, and oversight of senior staffing decisions. On Sept. 24 Truitt and Mangrum faced off in a debate hosted by the N.C. Institute of Political Leadership and Spectrum News NC. Both candidates agreed virtual schooling has left some students behind. But their reactions couldn’t have been more different. Truitt says children have paid the price for Gov. Roy Cooper’s shutdowns. She bashed the governor for worsening inequities in education and criticized him for imposing a “one-size-fits-all” statewide approach. “Absolutely they’re falling behind,” Truitt said of students. “We are upholding one form of safety over another when we deny students the ability to return to school. As far as metrics go, what I’d say is that initially this all became about flattening the curve, and then it became ‘let’s have zero cases.’ The goalpost keeps moving.” Mangrum contends health is more important than learning. She described classrooms as “unsafe,” saying she’ll follow the metrics to either reopen or shut schools in the event of a second wave. She praised Cooper while slamming Mark Johnson, the current Republican state superintendent, for being “MIA.” “The state law that describes a teacher’s job description puts welfare as No. 1. Academics are No. 4,” Mangrum said. “Aca-
demics are important, but the first thing is their health and safety and that of their grandparents. Yes, some have fallen behind. We’re going to have to accelerate next year.” Both candidates supported wearing masks at school. Truitt distanced herself from Republican gubernatorial candidate Dan Forest, who has criticized face coverings. Mangrum opposes the state’s Opportunity Scholarships. She blamed the program and inadequate public school funding for failing schools. “Not only is it the worst one,” Mangrum said of Opportunity Scholarships, “[but] our students are getting curriculum that says man and dinosaur walked together, that slavery isn’t that bad. They have no accountability, no transparency, yet they’re [private schools] taking dollars away from our kids.” Truitt called the description “disingenuous.” “The Opportunity Scholarship program is an opportunity for some families who’re low income to escape from neighborhood … schools that have been failing for generations,” Truitt said. “I don’t understand how someone can claim that we’re dismantling public education when we’re providing more funding than ever.” Both candidates support higher education spending and teacher raises. But Mangrum said more money is the solution to education’s problems. Truitt pointed to more local flexibility. “We’re at a crossroads in education right now that has been accelerated by COVID,” Truitt said. “COVID has shed light on many things that were already wrong with our system. … We cannot continue to do the same thing over and over and expect different results.” The nonprofit N.C. Institute of Political Leadership trains future public servants to serve in elected or appointed office in North Carolina. Its Hometown Debate series, produced in partnership with Spectrum News, focuses on political races in election years and policy issues in non-election years. The Truitt-Mangrum debate was the second of this election’s Hometown Debate series, and was held at Meredith College in Raleigh.
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Page 4A • The Weekly • Oct. 2, 2020
Games spice up college courses at ECPI It might seem that games would be something that most students leave behind when they advance to the college classroom, but highly skilled educators know that games can serve as an invaluable tool for stimulating learning, especially in a remote learning environment. At ECPI University’s Charlotte campus, medical assisting faculty member Dr. Sharon Tam has found them quite useful. Some of the games she uses includes Kahoot, Jeopardy and Quizlet. She also uses a variation of Who Wants to be a Millionaire? In her version, questions are tightly aligned with the medical assisting curriculum, including the muscular and skeletal system. “I might offer a student a lifeline or a 50/50 where I take away two of the possible
answers,” Tam said. “They can also ‘phone a friend,’ meaning they can ask a classmate for help or they can ‘ask the audience,’ which involves polling the entire class. “The students really seem to enjoy it,” Tam said. “Games like these allow them to engage in some friendly competition which brings a motivational element into the process. They also work as teams which fosters collaboration. Being able to work as team member is valuable in just about any profession.” Games also bring a visual element into the learning process. Seeking to bring that same visual ingredient into his remote classroom, Cyber and Network Security faculty member James Clapp is using Mindmeister, an online mind-mapping tool that allows users to capture, develop and share ideas visual-
ly. Mind-mapping is a technique that helps Clapp’s students visualize their thoughts and communicate them to others. It encourages a free flow of ideas, which makes it the ideal format for brainstorming and creative problem-solving. As a learning tool, it can help students structure information, improve memory, foster creativity, and facilitate collaboration. Right now, Clapp is using MindMeister to map out the intricacies of each service that comprises Amazon Web Services. “I implement mind-mapping because it allows the student to visualize content to put all the pieces together in way that illustrates how they interrelate,” Clapp said. “Mind mapping not only requires that all students engage with each other, but also makes them want to engage because it is actually enjoyable, not just another assignment. It’s one of the few projects that we have done that students work on during their break because they are having so much fun. Another unique aspect of mind-mapping is that it allows them to make connections to material that is already presented thereby, encouraging deeper learning.” Feedback from students has been very pos-
itive, both in terms of facilitating teamwork and retaining information. “We each had a branch that come off the main topic, so by researching it, collaborating with teammates, as well as connecting the services completed by other groups, it helped us piece the puzzle together and made it much easier to retain what we had learned, rather than sitting through a long lecture,” student Obbie Clayton said. “The class agreed that this method was much more mentally captivating than a lecture class.” Classmate Mitchell Shelton said Mind Maps helped him keep the subject matter as short and concise as possible which made for quick recollection. “This is the way I learn best, focusing on key words and associating them to the proper topic,” Shelton said. “It’s a great tool for virtual learning environments because it keeps the whole class engaged whereas something like PowerPoint isn’t going to connect at the same level. By the end of the class, we filled in a lot of information, and it left me feeling confident enough to sit for my first certification with the mindset that I could pass it.”
Obbie Clayton said techniques like mind-mapping are more effective than a mere lecture. Photo courtesy of ECPI
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The Weekly • Oct. 2, 2020 • Page 5A
The Sandbox celebrates a decade with GIVE Back Week
Laura Meier is a proponent of working with other local leaders and state lawmakers on issues like education and affordable housing. Photo courtesy of Laura Meier
MEIER (continued from page 1A)
voters and look for other ways to fund the arts, potentially forming partnerships with corporations. Meier said opponents of the quarter-cent sales tax proposal were successful in painting the arts as something for the elite, which she does not believe. “I think the arts can save lives,” she said. “I think we have got to get the arts into the communities that have poverty.” She also believes now is not the time to consider a quarter-cent sales tax or any tax hike. Meier sides with Harden on the notion that the county could have reacted stronger to COVID-19. She said government started out strong in the beginning of the pandemic but began to falter when it came to rolling out testing. She acknowledges the COVID-19 pandemic was all so new; however, the county needs to have plans in place moving forward. She also supports mandating people wear masks. While District 5 comprises a large chunk of south Charlotte, Meier is mindful that the board represents communities outside of Charlotte. She favors listening to and collaborating with leaders in Matthews, Mint Hill and Pineville. Meier’s platform consists of ensuring equitable schools, affordable housing, ample
parks and greenspace, mental health resources and safe neighborhoods. Meier believes people have misconceptions about affordable housing. It’s not putting homeless people in your backyard but more about allowing people like police officers, teachers and nurses the opportunity to live where they work. “They can’t live here because they are priced out,” she said. “I think we have to start with smart development policy and that starts with the state.” Meier would treat the county seat as a full-time job. “I just want to get in there and work,” she said. 4 things to know about Laura Meier • Meier began her career working with atrisk youth as a drop-out prevention teacher with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. The work was difficult but inspiring. • She has campaigned for the likes of Harvey Gantt and Dan McCready. She was campaign manager for N.C. Rep. Carolyn Logan (District 101). • Meier serves as co-president of the Charlotte Women’s March. She has worked to inject more diversity into the organization. • She believes Mark Jerrell has been a great addition to the county commission. She says Jerrell is a great listener On the web: www.meierformeck.com
The Sandbox has been celebrating its “10 | 10 anniversary” not only by continuing to support families of children with life-altering illnesses, but also lending a helping hand to 10 other organizations. The charity is celebrating 10 years of treating families in Charlotte through its CARRE program and a red-carpet styled “An Evening of Believing” Prom (2020) as well as 10 years of being recognized as an official charity (2021). While COVID-19 prevented The Sandbox from hosting its prom, the charity has maintained a commitment to supporting other organizations, such as icuTalks, SAS Cupcakes Give Back, Lakewood Care Center, The sHe REIGNS Conference, Blessing Boxes, Stolen Lunches, A Roof Above, LLS and The Raining Season. The Sandbox invites the community to participate in the campaign finale, Give Back Week, from Oct. 5 to 9. The week includes a food drive spanning now through Oct. 7 honoring the late Christian Reid, son of “Fly Ty” and step-son of Jacinda Jacobs. Non-perishable food & personal hygiene items can be dropped off at these locations: • Uwharrie Bank at 5231 Piper Station
Drive #100, Charlotte. Weekdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. • Uwharrie Bank Mortgage at 141 Providence Road, Charlotte. Weekdays 8:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. • Uwharrie Bank at 25 Palaside Drive N.E., Concord. Weekdays 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. The Sandbox will hold a PR event at 1 p.m. Oct. 9 at Uwharrie Bank in Concord (25 Palaside Drive N.E., Concord) and present the donations to Stolen Lunches and Cabarrus Blessing Boxes with Mayor Bill Dusch. The Sandbox will partner with Aveda School of Charlotte from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 6 to provide Haircuts For The Homeless at 1520 South Blvd #150, Charlotte. S&K Funnel Cakes will collect items for the homeless at all upcoming events and locations now through Oct. 8 in preparation for creating Blessing Boxes and Bags. Items include toothbrushes and travel size tubes of toothpaste, deodorants, lotions, shampoo, conditioner, soap, etc as well as socks, gloves, scarves and hats for men, women and children. All who donate will receive a $1 discount on a funnel cake. Visit www.skfunnelcakes.com for upcoming events. Visit www.GotSandbox.org/Year10 for details.
The Sandbox has given children with life-altering illnesses a prom experience through An Evening of Believing. Photo courtesy of The Sandbox
Page 6A • The Weekly • Oct. 2, 2020
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COMMUNITY The Weekly • Oct. 2, 2020 • Page 1B
Work starts on regional rehab hospital Atrium Health broke ground Sept. 24 on the new Atrium Health Carolinas Rehabilitation hospital. The project is the first step in modernizing Atrium Health’s Carolinas Medical Center campus in Charlotte. Officials said the new building will be a regional rehabilitation hospital, designed with state-of-the-art technology and programs to better serve patients and the surrounding communities. “A bricks and mortar milestone with a scope, scale and size that is not only significant but is truly fulfilling our mis-
sion of hope, health and healing – for all,” said Ken Haynes, president of Atrium Health’s Greater Charlotte Region. The project will include a 150,000-square-foot replacement hospital, 70 private patient rooms, a 9,300-square-foot outpatient clinic, an outdoor therapy challenge garden, an aquatic therapy program and a center for independent living. “Our new rehabilitation hospital will provide an environment with a focus on patient experience, enhanced quality of care and be a state-of-the-art hospital
that will allow for recruitment of the best and the brightest providers,” said Dr. William Bockenek, chief medical officer of Atrium Health Carolinas Rehabilitation. “Each of these will help raise the standards of excellence for Carolinas Rehabilitation, continuing to make this hospital a leader in patient care.” The groundbreaking coincided with the hospital’s 70th anniversary during National Rehabilitation Week. Construction is expected to take just over a year with a grand opening slated in the next 18 to 24 months.
Robbie Parks tells those at the groundbreaking about getting injured nearly 40 years ago in a crash. He’s now a sports and adventure program tech at Atrium Health Carolinas Rehabilitation. Photo courtesy of Atrium Health
It's OK to go gray Women jumping on hair trend by Kim Wickerham Contributor
From parks to events like Taste of Charlotte, the Charlotte region has proven to be a great place for families to visit. CMG file photos
Top tourism
Visitor spending hits record $7.8B in region last year Visitor spending in the Charlotte region hit record highs in 2019, once again surpassing all other destinations in the Carolinas. The region hosted 29.6 million visitors, an increase of 400,000 visitors from 2018, according to research firm Longwoods International. “The Charlotte region’s 10year growth, leading the state in visitor spending, is significant,” CEO Tom Murray said. “Our $7.8 billion visitor economy fuels critical areas such as building transportation assets, raising the destination profile, attracting strategic events and enhancing quality of life.” Visitor spending in the Charlotte Metropolitan Statistical
Area, which represents 10 counties in the Carolinas, increased by 5.2% and totaled $7.78 billion. Mecklenburg County led all of North Carolina's 100 counties in domestic travelers' expenditures at nearly $6 billion, an increase of 5.6% over 2018. Mecklenburg County represents 26.9% of all domestic travelers' expenditures in the state. Union County, which ranked fifth among the Charlotte MSA, generated $152 million in visitor spending. State and local tax revenues generated from travel totaled $425.7 million in Mecklenburg and $11 million in Union. These figures represent an estimated annual tax see TOURISM, Page 4B
NCDOT sends out $132M for roadwork Projects will focus on resurfacing streets The N.C. Department of Transportation has begun distributing nearly $132.7 million in Powell Bill funds to 508 cities and towns across the state. Municipalities use the money primarily for street resurfacing, but it can also be used for the construction and maintenance of roads, bridges, drainage systems, sidewalks and greenways. “The Powell Bill funding helps local governments improve transportation systems within their communities,” Transportation Secretary Eric Boyette said. “These funds help complete critical projects like repairing roads and supporting local projects
such as bikeways and sidewalks.” Amounts are based on a formula with 75% on population and 25% on the number of locally maintained street miles. Twenty-three cities are receiving at least $1 million, led by Charlotte at $13.7 million based on its population of 863,985 and 2,537 miles of maintained roads. Others receiving funding include Monroe ($907,879), Indian Trail ($856,511) Matthews ($724,684), Mint Hill ($684,847), Stallings ($388,692), Waxhaw ($364,434), Pineville ($203,628), Marvin ($147,799), Wingate ($96,801), Lake Park ($91,194) and Marshville ($62,802).
Municipalities have received more than $4.8 billion in street aid since the Powell Bill program started. Communities will get half of their allocations soon with the remainder coming by Jan. 1. CMG file photo
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Adrian Garson
Over the past few months, I’ve seen a new trend emerging on social media. From the pages of Facebook to the Wickerham colorful pics on Instagram, women are proudly sharing their latest fad, gray hair. All over social media, these silver foxes are popping up and rightfully so. They’re beautiful women in their 40s and 50s, maybe a co-worker, teacher, family or friend. Regardless of the woman, they all have one thing in common. They are fed up with coloring their hair. Perhaps this trend was provoked by the pandemic. Salons had shut down abruptly, leaving women to take to their own devices. Some chose to purchase box dyes, while others decided to wait it out. As weeks turned into months and roots began to surface, women began embracing their natural color, proving that gray hair is beautiful no matter what the age. Now, you might be thinking this sounds oh-so-wonderful but have no idea where to start. That’s where I come in. I’ve done enough research for the both of us and am happy to share. Besides, I’ve had a few of these silver foxes in my own chair and can dish the dirt on the entire process. So, let’s get started. First, you need to find the right colorist. You’ve taken years to build up all that color, right? So, let’s take some time searching for a skilled colorist to remove it. Look for someone that specializes in gray transformations and has a substantial color portfolio. Get a handful of consultations, gathering information as you go. Consider questions such as, how long have you been coloring your hair? And, why are you choosing to embrace your gray now? All of this information gives the colorist insight to your lifestyle and helps determine if you’re a good candidate or not. Be patient with the vetting process, it could take a while to find just the right colorist. So, it’s transformation day and you’re more nervous than a cat in a room full of rocking chairs. Relax, it’s going to be a fun day! The key word being day. Remember when I mentioned the plethora of color that has built-up on your hair? Well, it’s going to take some time to get it all out, roughly eight to 10 hours. The length of time can vary depending on your hair color, texture and condition. It’s important to remember that going gray see GRAY, Page 3B
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Page 2B • The Weekly • Oct. 2, 2020
Atrium Health launches vaccine research program Atrium Health has developed a new research program, “STRIVE for Healthier Futures,” in hopes of identifying a vaccine that safely and effectively prevents the spread of COVID-19. STRIVE has opened a voluntary vaccine research registry that will allow people to learn more about vaccine research and development. People who take part in the registry may be invited to participate in future COVID-19 vaccine trials and will be provided with convenient access to trials should they be interested. Currently, there are no antiviral medicines available to treat COVID-19 and no licensed vaccines to prevent infection or serious illness related to the disease. “Vaccines are the way forward and will allow us to turn the page on this pandemic across the world, our country and our local community,” said Dr. Christine Turley, vice chair of research at Atrium Health Levine Children’s. “Each person now has a
unique opportunity to play a role in this effort.” Atrium Health is looking for at least 10,000 volunteers to join the registry as a critical step in providing a strong, regional response to the pandemic. Following the launch of the registry, Atrium Health will open a COVID-19 vaccine trial. Atrium Health anticipates the trial will guide scientists closer to identifying a safe, effective vaccine that will be widely accepted. Officials said it is crucial to have diverse representation in program participants. Patients’ outcomes with infection illness or response to medical treatments may vary depending on many factors. For example, there may be disparities in outcomes based on pre-existing health conditions, race and ethnicity, or treatments that work well in men may not be as effective in women. “When study participants reflect diversity, we can gather information that allows us to best develop solutions that work for all patients,”
DINING SCORES Health departments in Mecklenburg and Union counties inspected these restaurants Sept. 18 to 24: Charlotte (28209) • Chopt Creative Salad, 4125 Park Road – 95 • Easy Like Sunday, 1600 E. Woodlawn Road – 95 • Five Guys Burgers And Fries, 2810 South Blvd. – 99.5 • Hibiscus, 1600 E. Woodlawn Road – 96.5 • Kung Fu Tea, 4200 South Blvd. – 98.5 • Little Spoon Eatery, 2820 Selwyn Ave. – 94.5 • Maple Street Biscuit Company, 2725 South Blvd. – 98 • Portofino Italian, 5126 Park Road – 98.5 • Rock Salt, 512 Brandywine Road – 97
Charlotte (28210) • Ilios Noche, 8426 Park Road – 97.5 • Waffle House, 4739 South Blvd. – 95.5 Charlotte (28211) • Copain Catering Kitchen, 6601 Morrison Blvd. – 95 • Grandma’s, 3500 Latrobe Drive – 97.5 • Passport Dough & Co, 3500 Latrobe Drive – 91 • Roosters Wood Fired Restaurant,, 6601 Morrison Blvd. – 92.5 • Shun Lee Palace, 4340 Colwick Road – 95 • Wendy’s, 6555 Morrison Blvd. – 97.5 Charlotte (28226) • Chili’s Grill & Bar, 8302 Pineville-Matthews Road – 95.5 • Dunkin Donuts/Baskin Robbins, 8334 Pineville-Matthews Road – 99
Cases by zip code These figures represent cumulative COVID-19 cases reported by counties. Mecklenburg (Sept. 23) 28105: 878 28134: 290 28209: 566 28210: 1,356 28211: 634 28226: 744 28227: 1,581 28270: 427 28277: 955
Atrium Health, Carolina Panthers and Johnson C. Smith University partnered to distribute more than 30,000 masks Sept. 26 at the college campus to people, businesses and organizations as part of Atrium Health’s Million Mask Initiative. Photos courtesy of Atrium Health
Union County (Sept. 28) 28079: 587 28104: 492 28110: 1,365 28112: 844 28173: 999 28174: 276 28103: 234
CINE for details.
Turley said. Call 833-451-1188 or visit www. Atrium Health.org/COVIDVAC-
• Groucho’s Deli, 5110 Park Road – 96 • Hungry Howies, 8334 Pineville-Matthews Road – 98.5 • It’s Just Great Food, 4519 Providence Road – 99 • Mr. Toyko Japanese, 8334 Pineville-Matthews Road – 86.5 Charlotte (28277) • Arooji`s Wine Room, 5349 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy. – 95 • Burtons Grill And Bar, 9816 Rea Road – 94.5 • Cafe Fior, 14825 Ballantyne Village Way – 97 • Chick-fil-A, 7910 Rea Road – 94.5 • Dunkin Donuts/Baskin Robbins, 16131 Lancaster Hwy. – 91 • Manhattan Bagel, 8040 Providence Road – 95 • Queen City Craft And Gourmet, 5349 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy. – 96.5 • Saladworks Ballantyne Corners, 11318 North Community House Road – 96.5 • Sushi 101 Noodle Bar, 5355 Ballan-
YOUR LOVE STORY AWAITS
tyne Commons Pkwy. – 83.5 Indian Trail • Kate’s Skating Rinks, 14500 U.S. 74 E. – 99 • Starbucks, 13731 E. Independence Blvd. – 98.5 • Tap and Vine, 6443 Old Monroe Road – 100 Matthews • Azteca Restaurant, 9709 E. Independence Blvd. – 95 • Genghis Grill, 9727 E. Independence Blvd. – 94.5 • Grace O’Malleys Irish Public House, 157 N. Trade St. – 96.5 • Kabob-Je Rotisserie & Grille, 2233 Matthews Township Pkwy. – 90 • Osaka, 3531 Matthews-Mint Hill Road – 92.5 Mint Hill • 7-Eleven, 4300 Wilgrove-Mint Hill Road – 96 Monroe • Cook Out, 1410 W. Roosevelt
Blvd. – 97 • Golden Corral, 2507 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 99.5 • Oasis of Monroe, 116 S. Main St. – 98.5 • Showmars, 2398 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 95 • Southern Roots Bar and Grille, 350 E. Franklin St. – 94.5 • The Spot, 1513 Concord Ave. – 98.5 Pineville • Auntie Anne’s Pretzels, 11025 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 99 • Charley’s Philly Steaks, 11025 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 94 • Chipotle Mexican Grill, 11025 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 97.5 • Sam’s Club Cafe, 11425 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 99 • Starbucks Coffee, 11025 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 99.5 • Starbucks Coffee, 9015 Pineville-Matthews Road – 99 Stallings • Mario’s Pizza Italian Restaurant, 2925 Weddington-Matthews Road
– 95 • McDonald’s, 14522 Lawyers Road – 94 Waxhaw • Broome St Burgers, 203 N. Broome St. – 97 • China II, 1309 N. Broome St. – 91.5 • Hacienda El Rey Mexican Restaurant, 3901 Providence Road S. – 98 • South Main Street Barbeque, 116 E. South Main St. – 98.5 Weddington • Panda Chinese Restaurant, 13661 Providence Road – 91 • Rock Store Express, 13801 Providence Road – 98 Wesley Chapel • Hot Wok Restaurant, 5943 Weddington-Monroe Road – 98.5 • Kami Chinese Thai and Sushi, 5922 Weddington-Monroe Road – 92.5 • McDonald’s, 5925 Weddington Road – 98 • Saveeda’s American Bistro, 5922 Weddington-Monroe Road – 96
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The Weekly • Oct. 2, 2020 • Page 3B
Firefighters ensure child safety seats have right fit by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com
Firefighters with the Hemby Bridge and Monroe fire departments partnered with Safe Kids North Carolina to distribute 50 child safety seats and ensure others were installed properly Sept. 11 in the Idlewild Market parking lot. Shannon Bullock, director of Safe Kids N.C., said such outreach events not only provide some financial relief to people during the COVID-19 pandemic, but also give first-responders more exposure to inspecting seats. “This gives them real life experience when we do these clinics to make sure they are signing off on the seats correctly before they are nationally certified,” Bullock said. Police and fire departments regularly offer child safety seat inspections across the region, including Charlotte, Indian Trail, Matthews and Monroe, though COVID-19 may have prompted some to temporarily reduce hours or suspend them. “Parents are sometimes overwhelmed by all the things they have to take care of and worry about,” N.C. Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey said. “They may not think about the importance of having a properly fitting child safety seat.” AAA, citing the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, says car crashes are the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 13 and 37% of children killed in car
State insurance leader supports fire departments by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com
Mike Causey travels the state visiting firefighters. Causey, state insurance commissioner, was in town Sept. 11 to not only support a Safe Kids North Carolina event in Stallings, but he also presented the Monroe Fire Department with the SAVE Award in appreciation of an “above and beyond action” taken to save a life. One of the ways Causey most frequently supports firefighters is through the N.C. Department of Insurance's matching grant program. This year, NCDOI distributed $8.5 million in matching grants to fire departments throughout the state, Causey said. They are not handouts. Fire departments have to apply and commit to matching the grant with a local contribution. “I can't tell you how many fire chiefs I've met and talked with that told me had it not been for the matching grants program, they would have closed their doors years ago,” Causey said. “It's that important.” It's so important that Causey has asked legislators to help increase funding for the program, given the need he has seen.
GRAY (continued from page 1B)
is a tedious process and will require a little patience and a whole lot of time. Be sure to pack a lunch and wear something comfortable, it’s going to be a long day. If your hair is on the darker side, the process will begin by decolorizing. This process eliminates a fair amount of artificial color from the hair and decreases the amount of stress and damage that would otherwise occur during the lifting process. As the color is lifted, the hair’s natural undertones will be revealed which can range anywhere from reddish-brown to orange. This part might seem a little daunting and have you second-guessing this whole gray transformation thing, but don’t. Decolorizing is necessary to the process and I can assure that you won’t be leaving with hair the color of a fruit bowl. After the decolorizer has done its job, the hair is prepped and dried for high-
Firefighters with the Monroe Fire Department went through special training with Safe Kids North Carolina to install and check child safety seats. Justin Vick/CMG photos
crashes are unrestrained. “Parents with the best intentions may still unknowingly endanger their children by putting them in the wrong seat or not securing them properly,” said Tiffany Wright, spokesperson for AAA – The Auto Club Group in the Carolinas. Want to learn more? Visit www.buckleupnc.org for more information on child seat checking stations around North Carolina. He's also worked with the private sector in providing fire departments support. In May, his office announced Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina donated $500,000 to help rural fire departments across the state. The money went to volunteer fire departments that were among the least funded. “There's so many things we do at the Department of Insurance and people have no clue,” Causey said. NCDOI employs sworn law enforcement officers. They've recovered $7.5 million in damages over the past two years. Special agents recently charged a Charlotte man with felony insurance fraud, accusing him of reporting damage from a hit and run that had actually occurred before he bought his vehicle. NCDOI also helps people find lost life insurance policies, recovering more than $6 million in one month this year alone, according to Causey. Want to learn more? Mike Causey (Republican) is running for reelection. He faces Wayne Goodwin, a Democrat who held the seat from 2009 to 2016, in the November election. Visit www.mikecau seync.com and www.waynegoodwin.org for more information.
lighting. My color of choice is always bleach mixed with a low volume developer and a protein bonder for protection. Leaving out the gray roots, the hair is foiled in small sections to lift faster. When highlighting the hair, it’s important to match up the highlights with the hair’s natural color. This process will take a few hours as the hair lifts through the orange and up to a level 10 pale-yellow. If you were to peel a banana, the inside color is what we’re looking for. Once the hair is lifted, it’s time to rinse and tone. I use an acidic, semi-permanent toner to condition and seal the cuticle. Remember, the goal here is silver-gray hair, so working with colors such as violet or blue will eliminate unwanted yellow or orange tones. If you’re one that totes a full head of silver, this could be your last step of the day. But oftentimes that’s not the case. Guests will have more salt around the hairline, with salt and pepper scattered throughout the back. When this happens,
the colorist will need to go back through the hair a second time and re-create the look by matching the dark hair. For those that have grayed prematurely and still have some darkness, this process will be a simple one. Perhaps a few strategically placed strands will do the trick, or something to showcase your new streaks of silver. If you’re thinking Diane Keaton or Jamie Lee Curtis, you’re on the right track. Ten hours later, it’s time for the big reveal. The chair is turned and you see an enhanced version of your gray for the very first time. If you’ve been coloring your gray for years, this transformation could be a drastic one evoking all sorts of emotions. Be sure to give yourself some time to adjust. You’ve come a long way baby! Want to learn more? Parasol Salon is located at 9949 E. Independence Blvd., Matthews. Follow on Instagram @thebalayagebelle or call 704-608-7594.
Page 4B • The Weekly • Oct. 2, 2020
TOURISM (continued from page 1B)
savings of $383 for Mecklenburg residents and $46.11 for Union residents. “Hospitality and leisure is the fourth largest industry in the region, providing more than 147,000 jobs, and visitor spending directly supports nearly half of those jobs,” Murray said. “Recovery of the tourism industry is critically important to support so many of our local businesses, get residents back to work and
help rebuild the region’s economic strength.” Beyond Charlotte, domestic visitors to North Carolina spent a record $26.75 billion in 2019 (an increase of 5.6% from 2018), directly supporting more than 236,000 jobs and $6.6 billion in payroll income across the state. “The numbers confirm the strength of North Carolina’s tourism industry as an anchor of economic devel- The Charlotte region has green spaces and man-made places that are memorable. Syndication Sales CorporationCMG file photo The New Syndication Sales Corporation opment,” saidYork WitTimes Tuttell, 620 Eighth Avenue, New New York, York, N.Y. N.Y. 10018 10018 director of For VisitInformation North Car- Call: visitation, we can attribute that visitors experience, and Call: 1-800-972-3550 1-800-972-3550 olina. For “As No. 6 Wednesday, state in our success to19, the2019 natural to a passionate effort to inRelease December 18, 2019 Forthe Release Thursday, December the country for overnight beauty and authenticity form and inspire travelers.”
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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.
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Rusty Jones is a happy vacationer any time he can be with his family. Here he is enjoying porch time in the mountains near Brevard. Photo courtesy of Sheryl Jones
PUZZLE EATON-SALNERS PUZZLE BY BY ALEX ED SESSA
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Online Online subscriptions: subscriptions:Today’s Today’s puzzle puzzle and and more morethan than7,000 7,000past past puzzles, puzzles, nytimes.com/crosswords nytimes.com/crosswords ($39.95 ($39.95aayear). year). Read Read about about and and comment comment on on each each puzzle: puzzle: nytimes.com/wordplay. nytimes.com/wordplay.
Searching through the archives, we found this cute photo of Bozley celebrating the Charlotte’s Best Friends Pet Care's 20th anniversary in 2012. Photo courtesy Best Friends Pet Care
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704-841-0760 www.WeaverBuddLaw.com inquiries@WeaverBuddLaw.com 352 East Charles St. | Matthews, NC 28105
The Weekly • Oct. 2, 2020 • Page 5B
Wanting to run a classified ad? CALL 704-849-2261 Monday - Friday. We accept credit cards. MISCELLANEOUS SAVE YOUR HOME! Are you behind paying your MORTGAGE? Denied a Loan Modification? Is the bank threatening foreclosure? CALL Homeowner’s Relief Line now! FREE CONSULTATION 844-359-4330 A PLACE FOR MOM has helped over a million families find senior living. Our trusted local advisors help solutions to your unique needs at NO COST TO YOU! Call 844-4323281 NEW AUTHORS WANTED! Page Publishing will help you self-publish your own book. FREE author submission kit! Limited offer! Why wait? Call now: 844-660-6943 BATHROOM RENOVATIONS. EASY, ONE DAY updates! We specialize in safe bathing. Grab bars, no slip flooring & seated showers. Call for a free in-home consultation: 877661-6587 Lung Cancer? And Age 60+? You And Your Family May Be Entitled To Significant Cash Award. No Risk. No Money Out Of Pocket. For Information Call 855677-0507 Offer: Book Your Flight Today on United, Delta, American, Air France, Air Canada. We have the best rates. Call today to learn more 1-855-6131407 Mon-Fri:10:00am to 7:00pm Sat & Sun: 11:30 am to 7:00 pm (all times Eastern) DIRECTV CHOICE All-Included Package. Over 185 Channels! ONLY $45/month (for 24 mos.) Call Now- Get NFL Sunday Ticket FREE! CALL 1-877666-2821 Ask Us How To Bundle & Save! DISH TV - $59.99/ month for 190 channels. $100 Gift Card with Qualifying Service! Free premium channels (Showtime, Starz, & more) for 3 months. Voice remote included. Restrictions apply, call for details. Call 1-855784-9695 FDA-Registered Hearing Aids. 100% Risk-Free! 45-Day Home Trial. Comfort Fit. Crisp Clear Sound. If you decide to keep it, PAY ONLY $299 per aid. FREE Shipping. Call Hearing Help Express 1- 866744-6150 Spectrum Triple Play! TV, Internet & Voice for $29.99 ea. 60 MB per second speed. No contract or commitment. More Channels. Faster Internet. Unlimited Voice. Call 1-855528-4962 MAKE A Connection. Real People, Flirty Chat. Meet singles right now! Call LiveLinks. Try it FREE. Call now 1-888-909-9978 18+.
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Your Home CONCRETE WORK •••I G W T ••• Exterior Specialists n
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38 Years of Experience
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Fully Insured • 20 Years Experience • Senior Discount
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980-622-7833
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Locally Owned & Operated • Weekly, Bi-Weekly • 1-Time Cleaning • Move-In/Outs • Reliable & Affordable Service by Trained Professionals • Bonded, Licensed, Insured • All Equipment & Supplies Provided • Residential & Commercial • 18 Years of Experience
or call Betty
Your Health & Safety is Our Priority!
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
IT Professionals 9M Solutions seeks multiple positions for its Charlotte, NC office: SOFTWARE ENGINEER to design, develop, test, document, and implement software solutions utilizing Fieldglass, Ariba, ERP modules and other SAP technologies as well as web/application servers. Gather business requirements as well as design and maintain application functional and technical specifications to implement requirements. Must have Master’s degree in Comp. Sci., Info. Sys. or rltd. DELIVERY MANAGER to Responsible for account management and oversight of business, market and IT analysis of corporate accounts including delivery of services on engagements focused on Ariba and ERP. Define requirements and plan project lifecycle deployment. Must have Bachelor’s degree in Arts or Science & 7yrs of work exp. in the IT domain w/ focus on Ariba and ERP applications. Both positions may travel & relocate to various unanticipated sites throughout the US. Send resume to resumes@9m-solutions. com. No calls. EOE.
Regional Process Expert, GBS. Clariant Corporation. Charlotte, NC. For NA & LatAm, dvlp & implmnt MDM stratgy. Reqs Bach in Bus Admin, Comp sci/rel/equi. Reqs 5yrs: using SAP MDM in mtrial, cust, vndor & wrkflw areas; utlzing data mgt & global hrmonization proc; MS XL, V-look-up, pivot tble & chrts; MS PPT, visual prsentation, chrts & slde shws; SharePoint proj doc mgt; Global & local proj mgt as lead; cross reg org mgt; 2 yrs: MDM; utlzing knwldge of gov regs like Homeland Sec & VAT codes in NA & LatAm. M F, 40 hrs/wk. Reqs 5% US & intl trvl. Apply: Hannah. andrepont@clariant.com Ref# 105805. By submitting your resume to Hannah.andrepont@clariant. com, you are agreeing that the information you submit may be used by Clariant Corporation, its affiliates and third party professionals to evaluate your compatibility with this or any other position we post.
FINANCIAL Beware of loan fraud. Please check with the Better Business Bureau or Consumer Protection Agency before sending any money to any loan company.
• 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
Call Bill
NORTH CAROLINA
IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE DISTRICT COURT DIVISION 20 JT 45
FORSYTH COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF: STELLA BRIDGE PICKLER, A minor child.
) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) )
NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION
TO: JERRY WAYNE PICKLER, Respondent TAKE NOTICE that a pleading seeking relief against you has been entered in the above action. The nature of the relief being sought is termination of parental rights of the minor child, Stella Bridge Pickler. You are required to make defense to such pleading no later than November 11, 2020, which is 40 days from the first publication of this notice. This the 30th day of September 2020. Jon B. Kurtz Jon B. Kurtz Attorney for Plaintiff NC State Bar No. 21158 KURTZ EVANS WHITLEY GUY & SIMOS, PLLC 119 Brookstown Ave., Suite 400 Winston Salem, NC 27101 (336) 768-1515 ***This publication is to run once a week for three (3) successive weeks, commencing October 2, 2020 and ending October 16, 2020.
Want to place a classifieds in the Weeklies? Call for prices (704)849-2261
MERCHANDISE FOR SALE
EDUCATION & INSTRUCTION
1st Saturday-1st Saturday-1st Saturday! Sidewalk Sale! 1stSaturday of every month at Servant’s Heart! Don’t miss it! Rock bottom prices on a variety of items not usually carried in our shop! 10am5pm9229 Lawyers Rd. Mint Hill, NC 28227
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NOW HIRING Delivery Drivers! For our Union County Routes. Weekly Routes Available. Contact us at adsales@cmgweekly.com for details.
Page 6B • The Weekly • Oct. 2, 2020
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You search for the best everywhere else. When it comes to healthcare, the choice is clear.
CAROLINAS MEDICAL CENTER • LEVINE CANCER INSTITUTE • LEVINE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL
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