The Regional Weekly Nov. 27, 2020

Inside: Governor tightens mask requirements • Page 3A

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For more than 30 years, the Humane Society of Union County has been busy in it’s little corner of North Carolina. The foster-based, no-kill nonprofit in Monroe has rescued thousands of cats and dogs who were either found on the road, saved from bad situations or surrendered by their owners.

Among those is the sto-

ry of Pirate, a two-year-old hound-mutt mix with a wonky eye.

Pirate was removed from a hoarding situation by a rescue in Richmond County last year and transferred to the Humane Society of Union County due to a severe issue with his eye.

Abbie Moss, a HSUC staff member, picked Pirate up and brought him to the clinic.

“He was all happiness and butt wiggles,” Moss

said, adding that Pirate got along well with strangers and other dogs. “He’s just a giant heart on four paws.”

Moss said Pirate was fed in his previous home, but received little to no attention or vet care. He had an underdeveloped eye that was causing eye infections and limited vision.

Veterinarian Jewell Abee decided the best option was to remove Pirate’s eye. After see PETS, Page 2A

Pirate is in good spirits after getting treatment and being paired with a loving family. Photo courtesy of Abbie Moss

Justin Vick

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

10 leaders primed for N.C. politics

BUTTERBALLS FOR ALL

The path toward becoming a state legislator doesn’t require a term on a town or city council, but having that campaign and leadership experience can make for stronger candidates.

Charlotte resident Becky Carney, for example, is entering her 10th term in the N.C. House after serving six years on the Mecklenburg County Board of Commissioners. She either runs unopposed or wins by a landslide.

For many candidates, getting into state politics is a matter of running at the right place, right time. Others may rule out a campaign for many reasons, such as wanting to focus more on their business, family or health.

Here are my picks for local leaders in Mecklenburg and Union counties with the greatest potential to make the jump to state politics. I have not consulted with anyone about this list … it’s purely based on my giant gut.

Several factors will likely affect my picks in the coming years,

Title chase Retired boxer vying for pageant crown, 3A

Common Heart continues feeding the region's hungry Touchdown Sir Purr helps teachers with donation, 3A

Gratitude Senior center gets thank you notes for meals, 5A

Common Heart delivered 1,500 turkey feasts to 1,500 families in need Nov. 21 throughout Union County, Matthews and Mint Hill as part of its 14th annual Great Turkey Countdown.

The nonprofit distributed meals in Indian Trail and Marshville, where it’s launching a food pantry and programs to escape poverty through a new East Union Economic Empowerment Center.

On the web: www.commonheart.org

Mixed-use development came to fruition in 2020 Pandemic raises key questions about popular development pattern

by S. David Ross Contributor

Tune-up Musicians pivot during pandemic, 2B

PLUS: • Retailers brace for Small Business Saturday, 3B • Radio station tops the charts, 2B

see VICK, Page 5A

Photos courtesy of Common Heart

Around the turn of the century, many developers started permitting and building “mixed-use developments.” These developments blend residential housing, offices, commercial space, educational space, recreation space and potentially small industrial space in the same complex.

These types of development can be found in many places in the Charlotte area.

Look at: the “South End” of downtown Charlotte; the intersection of Providence Road and Pineville-Matthews Road; the intersection of McKee Road and

Providence Road and Ballantyne Commons Parkway; the Waverly development; the intersection of Monroe Road and Rama Road and Idlewild Road; the Ballantyne area; and, the intersection of Monroe Road and Sardis Road North.

In most of these developments, people can walk from their residences to an office, grocery stores, restaurants, other retail stores, and even schools.

This type of development was promoted by departments of transportation, zoning and environmental agencies. These developments, in theory, reduced traffic because people could walk wherever they wanted to go. Less traffic had the effect of reducing congestion as well

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as air pollution coming from vehicle tailpipes and roadway repairs. These changes promoted a healthier lifestyle as people were walking within the developments.

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Page 2A • The Weekly • Nov. 27, 2020

PETS (continued from page 1A)

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the surgery, he spent several weeks recovering at the home of foster Stephanie Schwartz.

Schwartz said Pirate was hesitant at first to even enter her house — she wondered if he had ever been allowed inside before — so she picked him up and brought him in. He was also very possessive over food and ate very fast, as if he didn’t think he would be fed again, she said.

“He was eating so fast he would vomit it up because his stomach couldn’t handle it,” Schwartz said.

Overtime, Pirate’s eating slowed to a regular pace and he began playing with her other dog, Peanut. He also became more cuddly and loved to snuggle and sleep.

“I would find him in my bed passed out with his

head on my pillow and the blanket on him like a human,” Schwartz said.

Quirks of Pirate’s personality began to show as he grew more comfortable.

Schwartz said Pirate liked to watch “Law & Order SVU,” but barked whenever he saw actress Olivia Benson. He also discovered his reflection and would bark for hours at himself in the mirror, oven and dishwasher.

“As the weeks went on, he was barking at all the appliances,” Schwartz said, laughing. “I had to cover them with towels. It was the weirdest thing.”

Schwartz admitted she got attached to Pirate and was emotional when he eventually found his forever home.

“Not all the fosters are good dogs because they’ve had terrible things happen to them, but he was just so

chill and so sweet, so with dogs like that you especially want to make sure they’re in a good situation,” she said.

Foster/Adoption Director Kim Siewert said the Humane Society needs community support to cover the cost of spay/neuters, vaccinations, surgeries, medications, microchips, food, toys, bedding, litter, crates, carriers and other supplies animals need.

“We rely heavily on donations to be able to continue to take in all of these animals, especially ones with special needs and amputations,” Siewert said.

HSUC does not have a physical building or shelter to house cats and dogs. Instead, the nonprofit relies on fosters — like Schwartz — to provide a home environment until forever homes are found, but they need more people to volunteer.

Siewert said fosters play an important role because they help with recovery, show love and in some cases, introduce pets to toys and beds for the first time.

They are also vital in establishing a schedule and are involved with training.

“The fosters are a huge part of helping this animal from getting to just rescued to ready for adoption,” Siewert said.

Pirate now lives with Alyssa Stewart, a veterinary technician from Charlotte who was at the Humane Society to get a playmate for her dog, DJ. When she saw Pirate, she said it was “love at first sight,” and DJ liked him, too.

“I noticed Pirate’s eye, but I kind of think it made him more special in my eyes,” Stewart said. “It didn’t make me nervous about him for any reason. If anything, it made me love him more.”

Over the past year, Stewart said Pirate has opened up and started to look to her for more than just food, but also comfort, play and attention. He and DJ are inseparable and compliment each other well. DJ is high energy, while Pirate is calm and cuddly, Stewart said.

“As our relationship grows, he becomes so much more loyal and it’s just the sweetest thing in the entire world,” Stewart said.

“He saved me in so many different ways I didn’t even know I needed him,” she added. “It’s funny because I went in to find DJ’s best friend and I ended up finding mine.”

Want to help?

Visit www.hsuc.org to donate to the Humane Society of Union County and learn more about becoming a foster.

Task force evaluates legalizing marijuana

by Nyamekye Daniel Contributor

(The Center Square) – The North Carolina Task Force for Racial Equity in Criminal Justice plans to recommend the state decriminalize marijuana possession and launch a study on whether to legalize marijuana use and sales of the drug.

“It is time for North Carolina to start having real conversations about a safe, measured, public health approach to potentially legalizing marijuana,” said North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein, co-chairperson of the task force.

More than 24 states have legalized or decriminalized marijuana.

According to the Marijuana Policy Project, 31 states and the District of Columbia have decriminalized marijuana, and 15 states have legalized marijuana for non-medical use.

Taxpayers fund marijuana prohibition by way of public safety and

criminal justice costs.

According to a study by Money Geek, North Carolina spends 5.6% of its budget, or $5.4 billion, on law enforcement, amounting to $520 per capita spending on law enforcement.

Possession of up to half an ounce of marijuana is a Class 3 misdemeanor in North Carolina and could lead to a $200 fine.

Possession of more than a halfounce to 1.5 ounces is a Class 1 misdemeanor and could lead to up to 45 days in prison and a $200 fine.

According to data from the task force, there were 31,287 charges and 8,520 convictions for possession of less than a half-ounce of marijuana in 2019.

There were 3,422 charges and 1,909 convictions that same year for possession of more than a half-ounce to 1.5 ounces.

As of Sept. 30, 18,732 North Carolinians were incarcerated or under community supervision for non-traf-

ficking drug charges. The N.C. Department of Public Safety said the state spends an average of $37,712 per inmate a year.

The average daily cost to supervise parolees and probationers is $1,874.

The daily cost for in-prison drug treatment is $18.50 per inmate.

Drug treatment under community supervision averages around $117 a day per person.

Governments in deregulated states have been able to tax marijuana sales and create jobs by opening the market.

A retail study of 24 legal marijuana markets by New Frontier Data found that the average consumer spent more more during the COVID-19 pandemic, about $290 in May alone.

Colorado, one of the first states to legalize the sale and use of marijuana, saw a total of $200 million in sales in May. Colorado’s gross domestic product

increased by 4.4% in 2015 – a year after the legalization of marijuana.

GDP grew by 2.4% in 2016, 3.1% in 2017 and 3.5% in 2018, according to the Marijuana Policy Project.

Colorado also has seen increases in tourism and job growth.

The N.C. task force is seeking the policy changes to reduce racial disparities in the state’s justice system.

“You cannot talk about improving racial equity in our criminal justice system without talking about marijuana,” Stein said. “White and Black North Carolinians use marijuana at similar rates, yet Black people are disproportionately arrested and sentenced.”

According to the task force, people of color account for 63% of marijuana possession convictions even though they make up about 30% of the state’s population.

The task force must submit its full list of recommendations to Gov. Roy Cooper by Dec. 15.

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The Weekly • Nov. 27, 2020 • Page 3A

Governor tightens mask requirements

by John Trump Carolina Journal News Service

RALEIGH – Gov. Roy Cooper in a new executive order is encouraging local authorities to pursue criminal and civil penalties against businesses that fail to uphold mask and distancing requirements.

The order, which runs through Dec. 11, further tightens mask mandates when people are around people who don’t live with them – in schools, in stores, at work and in our homes.

“The rules need to be enforced, and we’re working with state and local governments to do just that,” Cooper said in a news conference Nov. 23.

Though Cooper said he’s reluctant to enact shutdowns and curfews becoming prevalent

“

The rules need to be enforced, and we're working with state and local governments to do just that.”

across the country, he did, however, threaten to “ratchet it up even more.”

Cooper intimated more lockdowns could come within the next couple of weeks. At least two reporters Monday asked Cooper why he isn’t levying more severe suppressions, such as those from March.

“If we need to,” said Cooper, who hopes the latest order encourages compliance. He called the latest action a “call to arms.”

Cooper used Greensboro as a dark example. Mayor Nancy Vaughan, who issued an

• Gov. Roy Cooper emergency declaration in that city to reinforce Cooper’s executive order, also spoke during the news conference, as did Dr. Mandy Cohen, state health department secretary.

Greensboro began enforcing the new rules Friday, including measures that would fine businesses $100 per person for every person who exceeds capacity limits. Greensboro’s order will be enacted against businesses that don’t comply, seemingly to the point that offending businesses effectively fail.

“We’re putting more responsibly on re-

tailers to enforce the mask mandate in their stores,” Cooper said.

The governor announced Nov. 17 the implementation of a County Alert System. It pinpoints counties with the highest levels of viral spread and offers specific recommendations to bring numbers down.

Counties are coded as red, orange and yellow, with red classified as “critical.” They’re assigned colors according to the rate of cases — the number of new cases in 14 days per 100,000 people — the percentage of positive cases and impacts to hospitals. That last metric takes into account the number of hospitalizations, staffing and available beds.

Twenty counties are in the red category.

Cases are trending up, Cohen said, although the percentage of positive tests have increased just “slightly.”

Panthers donate safety packs to help teachers CHARLOTTE – The Carolina Panthers and Honeywell donated more than 4,000 customized safety packs to Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools to help protect middle school teachers as they return to the classroom in January.

The Honeywell Safety Packs feature masks, hand gel and wipes.

“During these difficult times, we’re committed to helping bring a small sense of normalcy to students, parents and teachers,” said Paul McGoohan, vice president of business development of Tepper Sports and Entertainment.

Carolina Panthers mascot Sir Purr and former player Al Wallace helped distribute them at Ranson Middle School.

“The pandemic has fostered a lot of teachable moments and valuable experiences, lessons from which Ranson IB is using to prepare for our return to in-person instruction,” Ranson Principal Neodria Brown said. “We understand, now more than ever, that our scholars benefit from authentic relationships with teachers, staff and families which is crucial to both their academic and social-emotional development. Ranson IB is extremely grateful for the support of Honeywell and the Carolina Panthers, and their contribution to the health and wellness of our scholars and staff.”

The safety packs are a part of Honeywell’s

CMG file photo

USE (continued from page 1A)

Neodria Brown, principal at Ranson Middle, and Sir Purr celebrate a donation of safety kits from the Carolina Panthers and Honeywell to middle schools. Photo courtesy of Honeywell

efforts to help people as they return to schools, workplaces and other public spaces. These efforts include new technology to detect elevated skin temperature, monitor air quality in buildings and determine if devices used by people in buildings are distancing.

Honeywell and the Panthers are also collaborating to create an improved stadium experience with air quality monitoring

solutions and providing PPE to fans and staff.

“We’re excited to help CMS as they bring students and teachers back to Charlotte classrooms,” said Jeff Kimbell, chief commercial officer at Honeywell. “We are thrilled that our safety packs will help provide peace of mind needed for the teachers, students and administrators as students get back to learning in person.”

from home. We shopped from home. We found ways to be entertained at home. We worked-out at home. Traffic volumes on the roads plunged. Air pollution reduced to one of the healthiest levels in years.

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Page 4A • The Weekly • Nov. 27, 2020

VICK

immediate future.

(continued from page 1A)

Larken Egleston Charlotte City Council Egleston was one of six millennials elected to the Charlotte City Council in 2017. He has a knack for breaking down complicated issues for constituents to understand. He also wears bowties, which can only help. His earliest and easiest path may come in succeeding N.C. Rep. Becky Carney.

such as the redrawing of state voter districts, the potential of Charlotte altering its city council and the emergence of political talent not yet on our radar screens.

N.C. Rep. Nasif Majeed is among state lawmakers in the Charlotte region that began in local politics. Others include Becky Carney, John Autry, Dean Arp and Joyce Waddel. CMG file photo

Next generation of leaders may come from newly elected commissioners

by Kari Travis Carolina Journal News Service

Republicans won a strategic victory on Election Day in North Carolina, claiming several formerly Democratic county commission boards and adding to the pool of candidates they’ll groom for positions in higher public offices.

Politicians aren’t born. They are trained – often in small roles and in rural parts of the state. Democrats and Republicans strategize carefully years before an election, preparing lower-level officials to rise through the levels of state and federal government. So while it’s easy to focus solely on the outcome of the marquee elections, local results offer a peek around the corner. A look at the lineup of minor-league politicians who may become major players in just a few years.

This year, 308 county commission seats were up for grabs. About one-third of them were decided by primary elections and appointments before Election Day, the N.C. Association of County Commissioners said in a Nov. 17 news release.

One hundred and five of the state’s 587 commissioners are new — about 18% of total seats. Republicans will lead 61 of the 100 county boards. Democrats will hold 37.

When adjusted for population, however, about half of North Carolinians now reside in counties with Democratic commissions and half in counties with Republican ones.

Majority control will flip from Democrat to Republican in six counties, the association said. Caswell, Franklin, Guilford, Lee, Montgomery, and Richmond counties turned from blue to red. Just two county boards are split evenly between Republicans and Democrats.

Control of 61 commission boards will set a record for Republicans. Democrats held 89 county commissions in 1976. Republicans then began gaining ground in fits and starts.

But it took until the 2010s for the GOP to hold a majority of county commission boards.

The wins give Republicans a strategic edge, says Mitch Kokai, senior political analyst at the John Locke Foundation.

“That’s good news for Republicans because it is helpful for them as they train the next batch of state legislators and run for statewide office,” Kokai said.

Plenty of heavy-hitting North Carolina politicians started in local roles.

Republican U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis began see PIPELINE, Page 5A

Malcolm Graham Charlotte City Council Graham made the jump from local to state politics before, leaping from Charlotte City Council to the N.C. Senate in 2004. He lost some momentum after running for the U.S. House of Representatives in 2014.

He returned to the city council in 2019 in hopes to accomplishing big things.

If he does, a return to the N.C. General Assembly makes sense.

Dimple Ajmera Charlotte City Council As Ajmera approaches her mid-30s, she’s going to be faced with many opportunities. She took a calculated risk running for state treasurer in the middle of her second term on the Charlotte City Council, coming in second in the Democratic primary.

If she’s patient, she has the potential to succeed N.C. Sen. Joyce Waddell or N.C. Rep. Nasif Majeed in the near future.

Mark Jerrell Charlotte City Council Jerrell’s ability to think through issues at the local level combined with his age and even temper puts him atop my leaderboard among Mecklenburg County commissioners despite entering his second term. Like Dimple Ajmera, he would be a strong candidate to replace either N.C. Sen. Joyce Waddell or N.C. Rep. Nasif Majeed in the

Victoria Watlington Charlotte City Council Watlington should see a political boost with the city’s investment in opportunity zones. The first-term councilwoman could very well be the best positioned successor to Vilma Leake on the Mecklenburg County Board of Commissioners, where she can build on her resume until she’s ready to vie for state .. .unless she covets the role of mayor.

Matt Newton Charlotte City Council Newton, an attorney by trade, would have the same path to the N.C. General Assembly as Charlotte City Councilwoman Dimple Ajmera and Mecklenburg County Commissioner Mark Jerrell. However, he stands to advance politically by letting Ajmera and Jerrell make their moves.

Trevor Fuller Mecklenburg commission Fuller took a big chance by running for U.S. Senate in 2020, when he probably could have easily won the N.C. Senate District 39 seat on name recognition alone. The south Charlotte resident came in third in the Democratic primary won by Cal Cunningham.

Fuller, an attorney, may decide to focus on his ca-

reer, but he’s young enough to catch a second wind in politics.

Stony Rushing Union commissioner Rushing has served most of the past two decades as a county commissioner and still has some youth on his side. He could probably wait it out long enough to become the eventual successor to N.C. Rep. Mark Brody. Time should help him overcome some unflattering things brought up during the last year’s congressional Republican primary.

Melissa Merrell UCPS school board Merrell could very well follow the lead of N.C. Rep. Dean Arp, in jumping from chair of the Union County Public Schools Board of Education to the N.C. House sometime down the road, but an easier path would be to run for county commissioner first.

Jerry Simpson and Dennis Rape, whose seats are expiring in two years, aren’t spring chickens.

Elyse Dashew CMS school board Dashew has come into her own chairing the school board after following the lead of veteran educator Mary McCray. I can see a path to county commission via an at-large seat as early as 2022, which she could parlay into a state run.

Wildcards • Sean Strain: The Charlotte school board member wins most arguments but loses most votes due to his political leanings.

• Mike Como: The Wesley Chapel councilman is consistent and vocal about opposing high-density development.

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The Weekly • Nov. 27, 2020 • Page 5A

Leaders set aside politics to help others Boxer vies

by John Allen Contributor

As the holiday season draws near, many of us are uncertain as to what the future holds. With the COVID crisis and nationwide political unrest dominating the news cycle, it’s all too easy to assume the world is falling apart. We’re entering a stressful time of year, and it’s only going to become more stressful … right?

One group of citizens begs to differ. They call themselves Matthews Helping

Matthews, and they’re committed to fostering harmony, unity and joy across the greater Matthews area.

Matthews Helping Matthews was founded in early 2020 and is spearheaded by current Mayor John Higdon, former mayors Paul Bailey and Jim Taylor, and others representing small businesses, churches and foundations in the area.

These are men and women with beliefs – political, spiritual, cultural and otherwise – just like you or I. And just like you or I, those

beliefs are occasionally perpendicular to one another.

But one thing every member of the Matthews Helping Matthews team agrees on is their dedication to helping our community however they can.

Mumukshu Brahmbhatt, more commonly known around town as “MB,” was inspired by the willingness to set aside differences displayed by team members.

“I see a pure love for the Matthews community,” MB said of the group.

“Crises offer opportunity to connect, and a by-prod-

uct of COVID has been seeing our local leadership get onto the same page.”

Most notably, that “page” tells the story of a small group of people who raised more than $100,000 in charitable donations for the Matthews HELP Center, an organization that provides financial and food-based assistance to thousands of citizens in need each year.

MB said Matthews Helping Matthews chose to support the Matthews HELP Center because they saw it had structures in place

that would allow them to help the most people.

Helping the most people we possibly can: it’s a goal many people share and one that many feel is unrealistic. But what if we took inspiration from MB and the team from Matthews Helping Matthews and started by focusing on our neighbors? If we all did that – focused on our commonalities rather than our differences, on our community rather than just ourselves – we just might reach that goal in time for the holidays.

Senior center plans holiday meal drive-by

PIPELINE (continued from page 4A)

his career in 2002, on the Cornelius Board of Commissioners.

From there, Tillis ascended into state politics.

He ran for the N.C. House in 2006 and was re-elected three times.

In 2010, Republicans won control of the House for the first time since 1998, and Tillis was named speaker.

He served in the role until 2014, when he ran for and won a U.S. Senate seat.

Tillis recently won re-election to the Senate, edging Democratic opponent Cal Cunningham by two percentage points.

The trend has a long history.

Republican Gov. Jim Martin served three terms as a Mecklenburg County commissioner in the 1960s. Martin also served as a president of the state commissioners association.

MATTHEWS – The Levine Senior Center has worked to keep socially isolated older adults connected to the community by providing drive-by meals since April.

Center leadership Dahn Jenkins and Christiana Walters have been buying and preparing meals for more than 100 seniors each week. They invite older adults to pick them up as well as to exchange books and puzzles.

When they realized a community organization canceled its popular senior breakfast this year due to the pandemic, Levine Senior Center sought to expand its drive-by meals program for the holidays.

Levine Senior Center is holding a Drive By Holiday Meal and Care Package Event from noon to 2 p.m. Dec. 18.

The center will serve a free hot meal with a bag of gifts and fruit basket. ”We know that this event will provide some warmth and cheer and boost the morale of the seniors that have been isolated due to the pandemic,” said Walters, the center’s program director.

The center has received many touching letters from older adults that have received meals during the pandemic.

One older adult wrote how much she valued the interaction since losing her husband and son-in-law earlier in the year. Another thanked the center for ”bringing some sunshine into our lives during this troubling time.”

Walters also posted a fundraiser on the center's Facebook page (@Levineseniorcenter).

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The Levine Senior Center has received notes in appreciation of its drive-by meals program since the pandemic started. Staff and older adults say the program is a bright spot. Photo courtesy of Levine Senior Center

for pageant title, crown Retired professional boxer Carrie Flock is training for a new title – Ms NC Americas United States.

Flock, who retired with an 8-3 record in the ring, is entering pageantry with a platform Flock of mentoring girls and women.

“My overall goal is to use my platform and pageant to help more young girls and women with self love – to be strong and confident in who they are and that they can accomplish anything they set out for,” Flock said.

Flock is training for the personal interview, fitness wear and evening gown portions of the pageant. If she wins the state title on Jan. 9, then she will advance to the national pageant in August.

Email Carrie.boxing@gmail. com to learn how you can help Flock pursue pageant crown.

Flock has worked in recent years to raise the profile of boxing in North Carolina. She has also led fundraising and campaigns for breast cancer awareness.

Her nonprofit, Women of the Carolinas Fight Life, has several programs that instill self-love and self-defensive in helping women reach their dreams.

Visit www.wotcfl.org for details about the nonprofit.

Page 6A • The Weekly • Nov. 27, 2020

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Arts Entertainment ht to you By g u o Br

The Weekly • Nov.. 27, 2020 • Page 1B

Theater programs, like Central Academy of Technology & Arts (above pre-pandemic) and Matthews Playhouse (below pre-pandemic) have had to adapt to COVID-19. CMG file photos

RESILIENT THEATER The show must go on for Matthews Playhouse

by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts was supposed to be celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, but COVID-19 has prompted the community theater organization to adapt to a world in which people are encouraged to isolate from others.

The thought crossed Matthews Playhouse founder June Bayless’s mind that the pandemic would be the death knell for theater and affect all of entertainment.

“That thought occurred to me, but we’re resilient,” Bayless said. “Theater and storytelling have been around since the very beginning of time. We will find a way to persevere.”

Bayless and her team at Matthews Playhouse are doing everything they can to get those stories told.

After an initial period of shock, her team researched what professional companies and other groups were doing.

“Unable to provide in-person theater entertainment, we began questioning how we could remain engaged and relevant in the community during this crisis,” said Marie-Michele Darcy, program manager. “We wanted to continue to engage the community, provide some entertainment and also

try to assist with efforts locally with COVID relief.”

The organization started by increasing its presence on social media by streaming weekly entertainment. They’ve called numbers for virtual bingo, walked supporters through a murder mystery and even held a couple of “Masked Singer”-inspired programs featuring popular performers.

Matthews Playhouse was able to monetize some events, opting to donate a portion of the proceeds to organizations like the Matthews HELP Center, Union County Crisis Assistance and Common Heart.

Darcy said Matthews Playhouse has adopted the mantra of “We are better together.” They’ve manifested this idea through a 25 Days of Thankfulness social media campaign, which was the brainchild of board member Debbie Messner.

The campaign has allowed the nonprofit to thank a lot of the people in the community that keep community theater alive.

“I do think the 25 Days Of Thankfulness is both an acknowledgment of and affirmation of the local community, its spirit of involvement and those who support Matthews Playhouse and its mission,” Darcy said.

Matthews Playhouse is planning a couple of virtual shows next month, including a free performance of “A Virtual Christmas

Carol” on Dec. 4. They will offer a performance of “It’s a Wonderful Life Virtual Radio Show” that can be watched anytime Dec. 18 through Jan. 3 for a fee of $10 per family.

Bayless has been coordinating a play festival for 2021 that will feature Black writers.

She also would like to hold a musical production with orchestra and live actors over two weekends at Stumptown Park.

While she’s always thinking about Matthews Playhouse, Bayless said the work has been more exhausting since the pandemic,

because they are always learning something new.

Organizations are like hers are not considered essential, yet the first thing most people do when they’re stuck at home is log on to Netflix.

“We’re your escape,” Bayless said. “We’re the ones that help you emotionally get through this.”

She hopes that when the pandemic subsides people return to the theater for shows, classes and summer camps.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Page 2B • Nov. 27, 2020 • The Weekly

Drive-thru gives glimpse into Christmas story

Music Everywhere CLT is not only trying to get musicians gigs, but the organization is trying to advance their careers. Photo courtesy of Music Everywhere CLT

Concert series puts musicians to work in unique ways CHARLOTTE – Music Everywhere CLT presented by AvidXchange quietly launched a new artist development program last month called Communities in Concert.

The first stage of the program features paid gigs for musicians in nontraditional outdoor spaces. The free shows are open to the public.

Local musician and entrepreneur El Lambert pitched the idea to Music Everywhere CLT. With the help of a grant from the United Way/Foundation For the Carolinas COVID Response Fund, as well as support from Charlotte Center City Partners, sponsor AvidXchange and the local music community, Communities in Concert was born.

The program is helping artists during a time where gigs are limited.

“We see this program as a way to expand opportunities for artists and the creative community,” Lambert said. “It is a way to actively have a hand in changing some of these artists’ lives.”

The Communities in Concert program is an evolution of the Charlotte Music Community Relief Fund, which was a partnership with Tosco Music and FAIR PLAY Music Equity Initiative. The relief fund provided more than 150 unrestricted $500 grants to local musicians who have been impacted financially by the COVID-19 shutdown.

“One thing we saw in administering the Charlotte Music Community Relief Fund is that local musicians really missed playing music for an audience,” Music Everywhere CLT’s Rick Thurmond said. “They need that psychological boost that comes from a live connection with people. And Charlotteans desperately miss live music.”

Communities in Concert is phase two of the ongoing effort to support local musicians. Phase one was relief. Phase two is new paid performance opportunities. Phase three will help artists build and launch careers.

“When we did the research for the Charlotte Music Ecosystem Study and Action Plan, which we published last year, we heard loud and clear that local artists needed new and more equitable pathways to a sustainable career in music,” Thurmond said. “They need opportunities, knowledge and access.”

“Our focus is to equip artists with the tools they need to succeed while creating fairly compensated platforms that also expose some of this city’s most talented residents,” El Lambert said.

Communities in Concert had produced more than 74 paid gigs, employing 45 musicians. The series has over 50 shows scheduled until the end of November. On the web: www.musiceverywhereclt.com.

The eighth annual Charlotte Nativity Festival will be reimagined for 2020 as a drive-through experience.

The event takes place from 5 to 8 p.m.

Dec. 5 and 6 in the parking lot of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 5897 Hemby Road, Weddington.

Visitors can listen in their cars to an audio recording of the Christmas story through words and music while they journey to the stable to see the Christ child.

Along the route, there will be live animals, other characters in the nativity story, and opportunities to support the needy in the community.

The event is free, but visitors are encouraged to bring specific items for Loaves & Fishes, The Relatives, and Classroom Central. Details are available at charlottenativityfestival.com.

“WCCB News Rising” host Derek James and lifestyle expert reporter Karly Barker provided the narration for the event. Providence High School, the Charlotte Singers and other local musicians shared their music for the audio track.

The Charlotte Nativity Festival is also recognizing the Rev. LeDayne McLeese Polaski as the Light the World recipient for making a meaningful contribution to the

Colin and Megan Kitchen, with son Henry, play the part of the Holy Family at the 2019 Charlotte Nativity Festival. Photo courtesy of Samantha Naud

greater Charlotte community.

Polaski serves as executive director of the Mecklenburg Metropolitan Interfaith Network. She brings interfaith and community leaders together to relieve suffering during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Radio station hits top of the charts The Carolina Beach Music Awards recognized community radio station, 99.1 the Fun One as its 2020 Radio Station of the Year during its annual awards ceremony Nov. 14.

Members of the Carolina Beach Music Academy voted and selected “The Fun One” from a field of eight nominated, regional radio stations.

“When we heard on the live broadcast that we had received the award, it just didn’t register that we won,” said John Griffin, president

and on-air talent. “It really took a few minutes for it to sink in! Our team was so ecstatic and thrilled to win.”

Fun One on-air personality Eric Bowman was recognized as FM Disc Jockey of the year and his weekly show, “The Wave New Beach Music Countdown,” was voted Radio Show of the Year. It airs Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

This is the second time Eric and “The Wave” have received these honors in the past three years.

The awards come as 99.1 the Fun One has lent its platform to helping other nonprofits in the community. The station encouraged listeners to bring in perishable food Nov. 20 to help the Union County Crisis Assistance Ministry.

Want to listen?

The Fun One is on the air as WDZD-LP Monroe and operates at 99.1fm with coverage throughout Monroe and around the globe via wdzdfm.org, TuneIn and the WDZD app.

OF THE

Nominate a local business person making an impact in our communities! visit thecharlotteweekly.com to submit nominations.

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Page 3B • Nov. 27, 2020 • The Weekly

Small Brewery Sunday may take some edge off Small Brewery Sunday just may hit the spot following the stress of Thanksgiving, Black Friday and Small Business Saturday.

This year’s event takes place Nov. 29.

This initiative, spearheaded by the Brewers Association, is designed to support local independent craft breweries across the country.

“Whether you are able to safely visit a brewery taproom or brewpub, or opt for curbside pickup or at-home delivery, one of

the best ways to support your local economy and brewery during the holiday rush is by giving the gift of craft beer and serving independent craft beer at the dinner table,” said Ann Obenchain of the Brewers Association The NC Craft Brewers Guild offers a NCBeer Finder, where you can find breweries across the state, including 67 in the Charlotte area. Area breweries include: • Charlotte: Edge City Brewery: 6209 Old

Post Road.

• Indian Trail: Sweet Union: 13719 E. Independence Blvd.

• Matthews: Seaboard: 213 N. Trade St. • Monroe: Southern Range: 151 S. Stewart St. • Pineville: Middle James, 400 N. Polk St. • Waxhaw: DreamChaser’s, 115 E. N. Main St. On the web: www.ncbeerguys.com

Edge City Brewery opened earlier this year.

Photo courtesy of ECB

Pandemic adds pressure on retailers during holidays The Thanksgiving holiday typically ushers in the official start of the holiday shopping season however, given the restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, retailers are adapting their strategies to ensure they are serving customers safely and effectively.

Some are choosing to close on Thanksgiving Day. Others are offering several months of “Black Friday” deals. Others will be featuring the same deals both in-stores and online throughout the holidays to allow consumers to spread out their shopping.

According to the National Retail Federation and Prosper Insights & Analytics, consumers surveyed said they would spend, on average, $998 which is up slightly from spending last year. Consumers plan to purchase items such as gifts, food, decorations, and other holiday-related items with the bulk of their spending going towards gifts for family and friends.

“For our independent retail store

owners in small town North Carolina, the holiday shopping season is an important time, this year especially,” said Andy Ellen, president and general counsel of the North Carolina Retail Merchants Association. “For many of them, holiday sales will help them finish the year successfully. Additionally, there are many stores that were closed for weeks and are struggling to recover from the shut down and they are anxiously awaiting customers to return to shop.”

Ellen encourages consumers to shop local businesses, saying, “their commitment to their communities, where they live and operate, is strong and deep, and we hope shoppers will visit brick and mortar stores not only because of their excellent staff, superior customer service and the specialty products they provide, but also to give back to their communities, by keeping their money local.”

Gift cards remain the most requested item on wish lists, as they

Shopping at resale stores like Church Mouse Kit-N-Kaboodle Resale Store provides a double benefit to the community. CMG file photo

have been for more than 10 years, but will be the second most purchased gift item behind clothing and accessories. Books, music, movies and video games are also popular items on shopping lists this year.

Gift cards are an excellent option this year as it will support retailers now and provide an opportunity

for recipients to shop when they feel safe to do so.

Ellen advises consumers to be sure they are taking precautions to buy legitimate gift cards. The primary way to ensure you are getting a gift card that is the correct value and will work when you gift it, is to buy from a reliable source.

Harris makes case for servant leadership CHARLOTTE – Based on 20-plus years of corporate leadership experience, Omar L. Harris explains in “The Servant Leader’s Manifesto why it’s time for “a new revolution” that shifts away from top-down hierarchies to servant leadership.

The idea is that organizations empower those in closest proximity to the end customers to become their higher self.

“The Servant Leader’s Manifesto” (Intent Books April 2020) builds on the principles Harris laid out in “Leader Board: The DNA of High Performance Teams” (TPC Books April 2019).

He outlines six principles of servant leadership for developing effective teams.

On the web: www.omarlharris.com

South End extends Small Business Saturday through pop-up markets South End is taking the Small Business Saturday concept and extending it Saturdays through Christmas to boost sales at its nearly 100 retail options, 70-plus restaurants and more than 30 places to grab a drink.

South End Small Business Satur-

day presented by Fifth Third Bank will feature pop-up markets Saturdays from Nov. 28 to Dec. 19.

“The local shops and restaurants in South End are what make this place interesting. Each one represents an entrepreneur’s dreams and livelihood,” said Megan Liddle

Gude, of Charlotte Center City Partners. “Shopping small for the holidays has never been more important for our city – it’s about supporting each other.”

The Small Biz Hero Card offers incentives for people to spend money locally. Spend at least $10

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at participating small businesses to get a sticker. Do it five times and earn tote bag or shirt, designed

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between Nov. 28 and Dec. 31.

Pop-up markets will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 28 and Dec. 12 at Atherton Plaza and Dec. 4 and 19 at Design Center, Dec. 12 at Atherton. On the web: https://southendclt.org/events/ small-business-saturday

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Page 4B • Nov. 27, 2020 • The Weekly

Ensure your pooch is on his best behavior for gatherings With Thanksgiving just around the corner, you may be planning get-togethers with family and friends, albeit on a smaller scale this year.

However, whether there are 4 or 40 guests gathered ‘round the table, your four-legged family member may not be ready.

New people, shuffling around, loud talking and laughter, and extra activities can often combine to tempt your pup into misbehav-

ing. So, it’s best for you to be prepared, before your furkid grabs Uncle Ted’s turkey, jumps up on Grandma, or tips over the trash!

Here are some easy ways to make sure your pooch is well-behaved.

Review positive behavior No matter how long it has been, getting back to practicing and positively reinforcing good behaviors can help your pooch become

Tips for single people for navigating holidays There’s nothing like the holidays to remind single people that they are – well – single.

Throw in a pandemic and the holiday angst some single people suffer from can shoot from mildly unpleasant to seriously painful as large family gatherings are scaled back and holiday parties canceled.

But all isn’t necessarily lost.

With the restrictions and worries created

by COVID-19, this holiday season is a great time for singles to focus on themselves rather than worry about their relationships with others or bemoan their lack of a partner to toast the New Year with, says Acamea Deadwiler (www.Acameadeadwiler.com), author of Single That: Dispelling the Top 10 Myths of the Single Woman.

“Think of this as an opportunity to do what makes you happy and to make decisions without needing to consult with someone else,” Deadwiler says. “A little self-indulgence can be good for your mental and emotional well-being, even if that time is spent doing nothing at all.”

Deadwiler offers a few tips on how single people can make this holiday season merry and bright, despite the pandemic: Make a plan.

Large gatherings may be out this year, but it’s still possible you and a few family members might spend time together, even if you’re wearing masks and social distancing, Deadwiler says. But just in case that limited celebration doesn’t happen – and

even if it does – plan some special time for yourself, whether it’s taking a stroll on the beach, enjoying a favorite holiday movie while drinking hot cocoa, or hiking into nature on a crisp December morning. “You can immerse yourself in thought or be captivated by surrounding beauty,” she says.

Take advantage of virtual connections.

Although 2020 came with plenty of downsides, remember the upsides of living in the 21st century. That includes Zoom, Facetime and other ways to make a video connection with friends and loved ones. “It’s not the same as being there,” Deadwiler says, “but you can still make memories, just in a different way.”

Embrace the alone time.

Some men and women struggle more than others with being alone, Deadwiler says. They can become uncomfortable, bored and even sad. While she says there’s nothing wrong with seeking companionship, Deadwiler also insists that you can’t really know yourself unless you spend time with yourself, independent of the needs and influence of others. “Many of us don’t remember who we were before parents, friends, and society made us someone else,” she says. “In spending time alone, we get to hear our thoughts without all of the outside noise. We learn our authentic likes and dislikes, what we need, and who we are.”

more well behaved.

Start refreshing his memory with reminders about all the basics, such as sit, stay, lay down, etc., and have his favorite treats ready to give out as rewards.

Be sure to keep those treats nearby on the day of your get-together as well, so you can encourage him when he displays good manners.

Tucker Him Out

With all the preparations you’ll be making, you may forget to take your dog out for his daily walk or playtime routine. It’s important to help your dog get some exercise so he can get all his wiggles out before guests arrive. If your pooch has bottled-up energy, he may get bored and even agitated, which can cause him to chew, beg, bark or whine. Helping him get some physical activity to release that built up energy can lead to a more relaxed dog.

DINING SCORES Health departments in Mecklenburg and Union counties inspected these restaurants from Nov. 13 to 19: Lowest Score • Moe’s Original BBQ, 8163 Kensington Drive – 83.5 Violations include: Staff cups without lids were stored above prep table; towel and brush were in hand sink; tomatoes, green peppers and jalapenos had mold in cooler; stew, cooked chicken wings and potato salad didn’t have covers in cooler; utensils/pans had residue; and old baked beans and brisket should have been discarded.

Charlotte (28209) • Carmella’s Pizza Grill, 1513 Montford Drive – 92 • Luisa’s Brick Oven Pizzeria, 1730 Abbey Place – 96 • Qdoba Mexican Grill, 1600 E. Woodlawn Road – 92 Charlotte (28210) • Harris Teeter (deli/coffee), 8538 Park Road – 95.5 • Harris Teeter (juice bar), 8538 Park Road – 99 • Harris Teeter (seafood/market), 8538 Park Road – 96 • Original Pancake House, 4736 Sharon Road – 95.5 • Potbelly Sandwich, 4620 Piedmont Row Drive – 96.5 • Smoothie King, 4736 Sharon Road – 98.5 • Taste of Shu, 8418 Park Road – 90 Charlotte (28211) • AC Hotel, 1824 Roxborough Road – 95.5 • Chino’s Taqueria, 911 N. Wendover Road – 92.5 • Doorfreshchef, 3500 Latrobe Drive – 96 • Earth Fare (deli), 721 Governor Morrison St. – 98 • Earth Fare (specialty), 721 Governor Morrison St. – 98.5 • Green Brothers Juice, 7802 Fairview Road – 98.5 • Harris Teeter (deli), 6701 Morrison Blvd. – 97 • KFC, 1101 N. Wendover Road – 97 • Magpies, 3500 Latrobe Drive – 98 • Starbucks, 6701 Morrison Blvd. – 99.5 • Tai’s Kitchen, 3500 Latrobe Drive – 96.5 Charlotte (28226) • Hello Chicken, 8700 Pineville-Matthews Road – 97.5 • Outback, 8338 Pineville-Matthews Road – 90.5 Charlotte (28227) • Jersey Mike’s, 7309 E. Independence Blvd. – 98.5 • Tacos El Potosino, 7146 E. Independence Blvd. – 95 Charlotte (28270) • Chin Chin, 9856 Monroe Road – 94 Charlotte (28277) • Libretto’s Pizzeria, 15205 John J. Delaney Drive – 98.5 • Tsuki Japanese Steak House, 3429 Toringdon Way – 90 • Viva Chicken, 12206 Copper Way – 95.5 Indian Trail • Bojangles’, 6550 Old Monroe Road – 97 • DJ’s Diner, 88 Dale Jarrett Blvd. – 94

• Harris Teeter (deli), 6610 Old Monroe Road – 99 • Harris Teeter (meat), 6610 Old Monroe Road – 100 • Hickory Tavern, 6455 Old Monroe Road – 94.5 • Jet’s Pizza, 5124 Old Charlotte Hwy. – 100 • Kaizoku Japanese Cuisine, 6461 Old Monroe Road – 94 • Moe’s Southwest Grill, 6443 Old Monroe Road – 94 Matthews • Chef’s Catering, 1730 Matthews Township Pkwy. – 96 • Deep Sea Seafood Market, 10020 Monroe Road – 98 • Dorian’s Deli & Grill, 1240 Matthews-Mint Hill Road – 97.5 • Dunkin’, 9005 E. Independence Road – 96 • Fullwood Market, 131 E. John St. – 93 • Golden Corral, 11025 E. Independence Blvd. – 96.5 • Jet’s Pizza, 9920 Park Center Drive – 94.5 • Kristopher’s Sports Bar And Grille, 250 N. Trade St. – 96.5 Mint Hill • Jersey Mike’s, 7028 Brighton Park Drive – 98.5 • Jimmy Johns, 7014 Tutor St. – 99.5 • Publix (deli), 6828 Matthews-Mint Hill Road – 96 • Publix (meat), 6828 Matthews-Mint Hill Road – 100 • Publix (produce), 6828 Matthews-Mint Hill Road – 100 • Publix (seafood), 6828 Matthews-Mint Hill Road – 99.5 Monroe • Bi-Lo (deli), 1642 Dickerson Blvd. – 95 • Bi-Lo (meat market), 1642 Dickerson Blvd. – 97.5 • Bi-Lo (seafood), 1642 Dickerson Blvd. – 99 • Crossroads Diner, 4218 N.C. 218 E. – 99.5 • La Herradura Mexican, 1701 Morgan Mill Road – 90 • McAlister’s Deli, 2803 W. U.S. 74 – 97 • Red Bowl Asian Kitchen, 2115 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 95 • Ron`s Grill, 3621 Old Charlotte Hwy. – 94 • Showmars, 2398 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 96.5 • Takara Steakhouse, 2515 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 94 • The Village Grill, 1730 Dickerson Blvd. – 100 • Tortilleria Los Paisanos, 1404 Skyway Drive – 93 Pineville • Sabor Latin Street, 9105 Pineville-Matthews Road – 96.5 Stallings • Fresh Chef Restaurant, 15080 Idlewild Road – 96.5 • Phat Daddy’s Cafe, 2741 Old Monroe Road – 97 • Smoothie King, 15080 Idlewild Road – 98 • The Steak N’ Hoagie Shop, 4390 Potter Road – 98.5 Waxhaw • Asian Grill, 3913 Providence Road – 98.5 • Moe’s Original BBQ, 8163 Kensington Drive – 83.5 • Moe’s Southwest Grill, 8133 Kensington Drive – 100 • Publix (deli), 1615 Providence Road S. – 95 • Publix (produce), 1615 Providence Road S. – 99.5 • Walmart marke, 2520 Cuthbertson Road – 95 Wesley Chapel • Chick-fil-A, 6390 Weddington Road – 97

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burden CHARLO and TTE – discovered stress,” Pura been a Kare polic with PTS was that I was nda said. “Wh years when e officer in em Puranda D and exces at I pote upside down his world Salisbury for had Pura sive burn ntially dealing was sudd eight chan nda knew . out.” he enly flipp After ge, ed a licen so he returnedhad to be an went froma moment of agent of sed profe poor judg being dicti ssion to school the com munity a well-respected ment, he ma ons specialist al counselor to become , clinical two indic to facin and certi profession officer g se ad tm fi

CHARLO leads area TTE – Cove nations schools with nant Day in the seven four School th annu nomial High known Musical Thea ter as The The Chri Blumey Awa Awards, stian scho rds. nominati rison Chasons for Best ol earned Actor (Har e), Best Jones), . Photo Best Featu Actress (Kell s court (Tori Win er red esy of SDH ing Actre sky) and Best Performer its prod ss (Elizabeth Supportuctio Bryan) for Blumenth n of “Mary recognize al Performin Poppins.” will inclu winners in g Arts will a of the nomde performan show that ces by inees at at Belk 7 p.m. some able at Theater. Tickets May 20 or 704- www.Blumenth are avail372alArts.org The prog 1000. ram celeb in high rates scho “While ol musical theatthe best er. are part competition and awar the Blumof the process, ds working ey Awards is getting to really abou together sical,” Blum to t enthal create a muGabbard Presi night can said. “Everyon dent Tom for what feel the colle e there that and paren these students,ctive pride ing hard ts have achieved teachers to in work put their er.” shows toget hSeveral othe nized, inclu r schools were recog • Inde ding: tions for pendence had Best ActreBest Actor (Max nominaSupportin ss (Jada Eve) Becker), ueva) for g Actress (Isab and Best 25th Ann its productio ela Villann ual Putn Bee.” am Co. of “The Spelling

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The New York Times Syndication Sales Corporation 620 Eighth Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10018 For Information Call: 1-800-972-3550 For Release Tuesday, January 21, 2020

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Edited by Will Shortz

Crossword ACROSS

30 Appearance of a comet, maybe

1 Boardroom easel display

31 Horse and buggy users

6 Spanish beach

33 Caution in a school zone

11 Sack

14 Film character 36 R_od_ Isl_n_ about whom Tyler Red Perry said “I just 40 Really binges (on) don’t want to be her age playing 41 Express viewpoints her” 42 Build up 15 Used a dinghy thingy 43 “Smart” boy’s name 16 Part of Bennifer, once 44 Bunch at a fruit stand 17 _xygen _iflu_ _ide

46 _ranklin D_l_no _oosevelt

19 On vacation

51 Dirty pics

20 Third piece of a three-piece

52 Fifth-century barbarians

21 1813 battle site in 53 Rug rat the War of 1812 54 _ _rr_e_ 22 _ax_ d_iv_r

28 Awesomely tough 61 Spanish eye 29 Bert who played 62 Kick out the Cowardly 63 First lady before Lion Michelle

ANSWER TO PREVIOUS PUZZLE Y O U T A R N I M A D E L O R B A R B S S P R Y

H E A D D A D G E R I E S I C E K A E Z L Y A O A A N T A L O T O V E E A R

G O L O F R S R P R I O T C H K S W T O A V R E

O M I T

O A T H

F R E E W J O I O O F S P I I S E A T R O R K B E O N E D

R E M R I A X N A E S N E V A I S H A I G L E L

E V A N

B I N G

A L E S

D U B A I

D R O L L

T A X E S

O L A V

P E Y R E E S

Page 6B • Nov. 27, 2020 • The Weekly

64 Detectives, for short 65 Books, informally 66 Pedicurist’s board DOWN 1 Modern food concern, for short 2 Totally cool 3 “Without further ___ …”

4 The “p” in m.p.g.

5 Divides evenly 6 Entertainer’s crew 7 Stands the test of time 8 Where Che Guevara was born: Abbr.

9 Opposite of nay 10 Billboards, e.g.

11 One-named singer who once led the Sugarcubes 12 1966 Michael Caine title role 13 Errand runner 18 Prey for barracudas 21 Mess up 22 Wild no more 23 Bean sprouts?

24 ___ McNally (mapmaker) 25 Pizzeria order 26 Load of laundry 27 “Didn’t think I’d run into you here!”

28 ___-chic (fashion style) 31 New Balance competitor 32 Browser option

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Author takes kids on journey to grandma’s

No. 1217

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PUZZLE BY DAVID LEVINSON WILK

33 FaceTime alternative 34 Biblical outcast 35 Much of binary code 37 Laze 38 Weapon used when saying “En garde!”

39 Land between Nigeria and Sudan 43 Without which earth is just “eh”?

44 Wilder who played Willy Wonka 45 Do some downand-dirty fighting 46 Camera setting 47 Word derived from the Japanese for “picture writing” 48 Buicks and Bentleys 49 Ripped bit 50 Downtimes 54 ___ Highness

55 Firefighter’s tool 56 Brewpub offering, for short 57 Cooke who sang “Twistin’ the Night Away” 58 Like a pregnant woman at about 40 weeks 59 Bobby of the Boston Bruins 60 The “G” of L.G.B.T.

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

Read about and comment on each puzzle: nytimes.com/wordplay.

Becoming an author became an interesting plot twist for Donna De Lucia Goscicki after retiring from business management. She drew inspiration from her growing family.

“I never imagined that I would become an author but after making wonderful memories with my five grandchildren, and another grandchild on the way, I was inspired to write ‘Go to Grandma’s House?,’” she said.

“Go to Grandma’s House?” celebrates a grandmother’s endearing relationship with her grandson.

Whenever Grandma visits her grandson Alex, she always knows just what he loves to do. One day, she is perplexed to find that Alex wants to “go to grandma’s house” instead. The two have a wonderful day together, revisiting old memories and creating new ones.

Donna’s passion for writ-

ing a children’s book b e c a m e more apparent in her later years Goscicki as she often reminisced her own daughter’s childhood and through observing and being actively involved with her grandchildren.

Donna’s years as a grandmother have filled her life with additional love, great memories and gratitude more than she could have imagined. The Bronx native lives in Weddington with Ed, her husband of 46 years.

The publication of her first children’s book, “Go to Grandma’s House?” – the first of a series – has given Donna great pleasure to know that her book will fill children and their families with joy, wonder and amusement.

On the web: https:// mascotbooks.com

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