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ELECTION 2020
ABOUT US
Update on early voting
P.O. BOX 1104Community Endorsements Jennifer De La Jara CMS School Board, At-Large Hugh McColl Former Chairman and CEO of Bank of America Matthews, NC 28106 George Dunlap Chairman of the Mecklenburg County Commission Dan McCready Former Candidate for U.S. House (704) Shirley Fulton849-2261 Superior Court Judge (Ret.) Susan Rodriguez-McDowell Mecklenburg County Commissioner
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Renee Garner Matthews Mayor Pro-Tem
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Susan Harden Mecklenburg County Commissioner justin@cmgweekly.com Patsy Kinsey Former Mayor and City Councilwoman matthewsminthillweekly.com
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ART CLASSES WHAT'S INSIDE:
Barbara Dement prepares to submit paperwork to launch a campaign for a second term on the Matthews Board of Commissioners. MMHW file photo
McCool replaces Dement as town commissioner by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com
Early start Begin planning for St. Paddy’s, 1B
Flavorful White Duck Taco targets region, 2B
Barn raising
MATTHEWS – Barbara Dement resigned from the Matthews Board of Commissioners last week, prompting the board to appoint Ken McCool to the vacancy. McCool finished 13 votes shy of winning the sixth and final seat on the commission in November, but his appointment was not planned prior to him taking the oath of office on Feb. 24. Moments after Mayor John Higdon announced the board wouldn't make a decision on the vacancy until after its planning conference, Commissioner Jeff Miller called an audible. Miller requested a 10-minute recess. When the meeting resumed, he made the motion to appoint McCool. The board approved the motion 4-2, with Dave Bland and John Urban casting the dissenting votes. “It's so that this town doesn't get torn apart,” Miller said. “I love this town. I want to do what is right for the whole town. I had differing opinions, but I don't want this town to be torn apart.” Dement leaves abruptly The town announced Feb. 21 that Dement resigned from the commission. Dement had just earned a second term on the board following the November election. She worked to maintain balanced growth and the small-town feel of Matthews while working as a life care consultant at Plantation Estates. “My professional responsibilities no longer make it possible for me to fulfill the duties of this position, therefore, although difficult, I am doing what is right and honorable by stepping down as commissioner for
Structure added to historic village, 4B
Justin Vick Managing Editor
Life happens
Four-year terms don't fit our fast-growing region
CHARLOTTE – North Carolina residents will cast their votes for local, state and national candidates March 3 in the primary election, but early voting was well underway. Several sites in Mecklenburg County have been open throughout early voting, which ends Feb. 29. While many residents may only be voting in the Democratic presidential primary, some local and state candidates' canvassers stood outside early voting sites, hoping to speak to voters about the other names on the ballot. “People are coming to pick the president,” Tera Long said Feb. 24 at the Morrison Regional Library. “They don’t know the down ballot, so I’m spending the majority of my time this week trying to educate them on that.” Long is one of eight candidates running for an at-large seat on the Mecklenburg County Board of Commissioners. She’s had helpers from her campaign covering as many voting sites as possible. At the state level, Charlotte City Council member Dimple Ajmera is on the ballot for state treasurer. Leila Forbes stood outside the Morrison Regional Library to garner support for Ajmera’s campaign. “She has the financial background for this,” Forbes said of Ajmera. see VOTING, Page 4A
B
arbara Dement's resignation from the Matthews Board of Commissioners was a reminder about how life just happens. Dement was among 23 candidates in the Matthews and Mint Hill area that hurled themselves into hard-fought campaigns during the tail end of last year. In the throes of a campaign, you never really consider anyone resigning from their seats. But it's becoming increasingly more common in the Charlotte region. Several other resignations come to mind. Within the past four years, I've seen elected leaders resign from posts in Charlotte (John Autry), Hemby Bridge (Gary Anderson), Indian Trail (Monty Keistler, Amy Stanton see VICK, Page 4A
see DEMENT, Page 5A
Leila Forbes campaigns on behalf of state treasurer candidate Dimple Ajmera outside of Morrison Regional Library in Charlotte. Kayla Berenson/MMHW photo
HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL
Patriot girls make big splash in 2020 by Andrew Stark andrew@cmgweekly.com
Burps not barks Brewery grains become dog treats, 6B
INDEX Crime................................................................................ 5A Classifieds..............................................................5B Arts & Entertainment....................... 1B Calendar....................................................................3B Dining Scores..................................................2B Loud&Live.............................................................3B News Briefs......................................................... 2A Puzzles.........................................................................3B
To truly appreciate the 20-win season, the school’s first playoff berth in nearly a decade, the home playoff game and all of the many other firsts that took place this season on the Independence girls basketball team, the story really has to start way back at the beginning. On Jan. 28, 2013, the Patriots beat East Meck on a random school night. They would not win another game for 51 straight contests when Lauren Galvani (Lewis back then), a bright-eyed former North Meck and Lees-McRae star applied for the job. She was two years removed from graduating college after serving a season as a grad assistant and eager to join her fa-
ther, North Meck legend Duane Lewis, in the high school coaching ranks. But the Independence job was going to be a tough one. She knew it, but when they called her back, Galvani jumped at the chance. “I think that’s why the position was open because I don’t think anyone else wanted the job,” she half joked. Galvani lost her first 10 games as the Patriots coach before a win over Providence snapped the program’s ugly 61game losing streak that spanned four seasons and three coaches. Independence promptly lost their next 12 games, and there were certainly some tough times during her 1-22 rookie season. “My dad had to talk me down just a
CMPD Animal Care & Control
Orphaned Animals Available for Adoption
8315 Byrum Drive animals.cmpd.org
FREDDY
see SPLASH, Page 3A
Name: Freddy ID: A1163679 Age: 2 years Weight: 48 lbs Sex: Neutered Date of Arrival: 1/7/2020 Adoption fee: $10 Vaccinations: Has all required vaccinations
The Patriots have won 20 games, made the playoffs for the first time in nearly a decade and so much more with (from left) Trinity Thompson, Braylyn Milton, Gracie Breckenridge, Laura Flynn and Averie DiBenedetto. Andrew Stark/MMHW photo
COSITA
Name: Cosita ID: A5095315 Age: 5 years Breed: Shorthair Sex: Neutered Date of Arrival: 1/24/2020 Adoption fee: $10 Vaccinations: Has all required vaccinations
CMPD Animal Care & Control also holds an adoption event
the first Saturday of each month at the SouthPark Mall located at 4400 Sharon Road
Page 2A • Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly • Feb. 28, 2020
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Mary Phelps is among several artists featured in the Mint Hill Arts gallery within Mint Hill Town Hall. This piece is titled “Autumn Gold.” Justin Vick/MMHW photo
MOST POPULAR STORIES
MANAGING EDITOR Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com NEWS EDITOR Karie Simmons karie@cmgweekly.com
• Matthews Police Department confirms missing infant is dead • Dement resigns from Matthews commissioners • Police: Fraud suspects racked up $1,600 in credit card charges • 22 Influential African American leaders in the region • Boyd’s county seal design combines past, future
SPORTS EDITOR Andrew Stark andrew@cmgweekly.com
TWEETS OF THE WEEK
ART DIRECTOR Kylie Sark art@cmgweekly.com
• "RIP Chi-Liam Cody Brown-Erickson, I Can't Imagine Not Loving And Caring For Chi-Liam, Heartfelt Condolence To All Who Did." – Missing Black Females (@Black_Missing) • "Ms. Tomlinson is nominated for 2020 NC School Hero. Help her win $10,000 for herself and $10,000 for Butler by voting once a day!" – Butler Bulldogs (@butlerbulldawgs)
UPCOMING EDITIONS • March 6: Summer Camps #2 • March 13: Home Improvement
CONTENT PRODUCER Kayla Berenson kayla@cmgweekly.com
ADVERTISING Charlotte Conway Kate Kutzleb Julie Foras adsales@cmgweekly.com PRESS RELEASES justin@cmgweekly.com
Recognize these people? They are suspected of using stolen credit cards. Call 704-841-6715 if you have any information. Photos courtesy of Matthews Police Department
Police look for fraud suspects MATTHEWS – The Matthews Police Department is trying to identify two suspects believed to have been using stolen credit cards at several stores in Matthews for transactions totaling over $1,600. Contact Detective Chris Duryee at cdury ee@matthewsnc.gov or 704-841-6715 if you know the identity of the suspects.
Police: Student brought pistol-style BB gun to school MATTHEWS – The Matthews Police Department arrested a 17-year-old student who brought a pistol-style BB gun to Butler High School. Police received an anonymous tip at 10:30 a.m. Feb. 20 that identified the student. Police alerted the school resource officer. He located the student. The student ran out of the building toward Matthews-Mint Hill Road. Police said the student was treated onscene by Medic after injuring himself in a brief foot chase. The student faces a charge of having a weapon on campus.
Harris Teeter recognized for United Way support MATTHEWS – Harris Teeter won a Spirit of North Carolina Award for its support of United Way’s work. A panel of 25 judges representing United Way organizations across North Carolina reviewed more than 40 nominations to select this year’s winners, who were recognized at a luncheon Feb. 19 in Pinehurst. Other Charlotte-area winners were ATI Specialty Materials, City of Charlotte, GreerWalker LLP and Regions Bank. “The Spirit of North Carolina Award recognizes the exemplary collaborative partnerships that United Way of Central Carolinas builds with its supporters,” said Clint Hill, chief development officer. “These organizations have gone above and beyond to help us address the growing challenges around economic mobility in our community.”
Prayer breakfast focuses on momentum MATTHEWS – Momentum is the theme of the Annual Community Men’s Prayer Breakfast. The event takes place from 8 to 11 a.m. March 21 at Joy Christian Fellowship Church, 11516 Idlewild Road. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. The free program is open to men of all faith and denominations. Organizers encourage men to arrive early to get the best seats. Call 704-651-5664 for details.
Jet’s Pizza offering Leap Year special on Feb. 29 CHARLOTTE – Jet’s Pizza is offering a special deal to celebrate Leap Year. Locations nationwide will sell menu-priced pizzas for 29% off Feb. 29. The deal is available by ordering online only with the code LEAP. The offer is valid for pickup and delivery orders. “These types of events are always a great way to get new faces in the door and reward our existing and loyal pizza-loving customers,” said Kevin Tosolt, the director of marketing. Jet's Pizza has a location in Matthews (920 Park Center Drive). Visit www.jetspizza.com for details.
Wayback Burgers celebrates Leap Year with dessert CHESHIRE, Conn. – Wayback Burgers is taking advantage of the extra day this Leap Year to give a sweet treat to guests with the Wayback app. Wayback Burgers will offer hand-dipped milkshakes to guests with the Wayback app for $2.29 on Feb. 29. “Since an extra day added to February is a treat, we knew the best way to celebrate is to sweeten the deal on our many delicious flavors of milkshakes,” President Patrick Conlin said. The Wayback App is available in the Apple store or Google Play. The Mint Hill location is at 7014 Tutor St.
Police confirm death of missing Matthews infant
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MATTHEWS – Hours after issuing an Amber Alert for infant Chi-Liam Cody Brown-Erickson, the Matthews Police Department confirmed the six-month-old boy was dead. Officers found a deceased infant at 4:03 a.m. Feb. 22 in Sharon Memorial Park. The Mecklenburg County Medical Examiners Office confirmed the infant to be Chi-Liam Cody Brown-Erickson. The CMPD Homicide Unit is conducting an investigation. The Matthews Police Department issued the alert Feb. 22 after the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department arrested his mother, 30-year-old Tamara Jernel Brown, on charges of common law robbery and two counts of assault on a government official at 9:56 p.m. Feb. 21 in the Galleria Boulevard area. The child was not with her at the time of the arrest. Police had already asked for the public’s help Feb. 21 locating Brown and the child. They were missing from the Gander Cove Lane area of Matthews since 10 p.m. Feb. 20. She was last seen walking the child at
Tamara Jernel Brown and her son, Chi-Liam Cody Brown-Erickson, were initially reported missing. The next day, Brown was in custody and Chi-Liam was found dead in a cemetery. Photo courtesy of Matthews Police Department
noon Feb. 21 in the uptown Charlotte area. Anyone with information about the case can speak to a homicide detective by calling 704-432-TIPS.
Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly • Feb. 28, 2020 • Page 3A
Indy boys pull off rare SW4A 3-peat by Andrew Stark andrew@cmgweekly.com
With quality teams from Butler, Myers Park, Hickory Ridge and Rocky River annually competing in the Southwestern 4A conference, it’s pretty remarkable that any team could win the conference tournament and the regular season in the same season. But to pull off that feat for three consecutive years? That’s what coach Preston Davis and his Independence boys basketball team just accomplished by beating Hickory Ridge and knocking off Myers Park twice in the same week. While that is extremely hard to do, for Davis to do it this year says something about what he’s built at Independence. “When the schedule came out, I don’t think there were many people picking us to win it,” Davis said. And there was a good reason for that. The Patriots had just graduated five seniors - all of whom are playing college basketball right now and had more question marks than
answers when they started the season 2-4. They dropped out of newspaper polls and people wrote them off way too early. “We had to figure out an identity,” Davis said. “We lost five starters that went on to play college basketball and eight seniors total. We had a couple of people returning, but they were in new positions so we had to figure out who were going to be our leaders and what styles were best for us defensively. We just had to figure out this team, the rotations and put the pieces together.” One key returnee, Anthony Allen (16.5 points per game), has emerged as the team’s 3-point marksman, leading scorer and a big-time playmaker who had a career-high 10 assists in a win over Rocky River this month. When he’s sharing the ball that efficiently and the Patriots can run their offense through him, they’re pretty tough to beat. “The biggest thing with Anthony is me not wanting him to try to do too much,” Davis said. “As long
SPLASH (continued from page 1A)
little bit,” Galvani said. “Me getting the job and being the coach in my first year, I’m thinking that we will easily win 10 games. It can’t be that hard, but there is a process to everything. It was very frustrating at times but it was rewarding because we’ve figured it out. “The program hadn’t won in three or four years so even I knew it was going to be hard getting one win against a team that’s not very good. We got one win that first year, and once you get one, it’s addicting.” Laura Flynn, a starting senior guard, was on Galvani’s next team, that went on to an 8-20 record, as a freshman. “At first, it was like we just fought for a win,” she said. “We went into games with the mentality of just keep going. Throughout the years there has been a lot of growth throughout the team.” The team won 13 games in 2017-18, 10 games last year and now they’ve jumped up
as he’s not trying to do too much, I like our chances. When he plays unselfish and doesn’t force it, we’re pretty good.” The Patriots have reeled off nine straight wins as they enter the playoffs. With their 20-7 record, Independence has now won 20 or more games for the fifth straight season. Nygell Verdier (13.2 points and 4.9 rebounds) has emerged as Allen’s running mate after not getting a ton of playing time last year. That may be hurting his recruitment some, although Davis says there are a few Division I programs interested in him, but his play has been huge. “College coaches don’t know who he is and that’s the frustrating thing for me because he’s a college player. He’s a scholarship player,” Davis said. “I know he’s a full scholarship player. DI, DII, DI-JuCo, that’s what we’re looking at. That’s not him, he just wants to play anywhere at the next level, but that’s me because I know he’s a DI player.” Holdover Omarion Bodrick (9.3 points, 7.6 rebounds and 3.1 as-
to the 20-win team that made the playoffs for the first time since the 2010-2011 season. This year started off with a bang when junior star Braylyn Milton drained a buzzer-beating halfcourt heave to beat Galvani’s alma mater North Meck at their place. They have been rolling ever since. Part of the success can be found with the arrival of Trinity Thompson, a high-scoring guard who transferred from Harding. She’s averaging 15.5 points this season, taking a major weight off Milton’s shoulders. Helping matters even more is the arrival of another guard, Averie DiBenedetto, a Providence transfer who became eligible Jan. 31. In the six games since, she’s averaged more than 10 points per game and is more of a natural point guard. “Having them has helped me grow and expand my game,” said Milton, who still averages over 18 points and fills the stat sheet nightly. “I used to have to bring the ball up the court and guard the best player, but now we have a variety of people that can do all of those things. It makes a big difference and it
Independence High forward De’Drick Givens reacts to a jump ball call after Landon King (31) and Omarion Bodrick tie up Butler’s Patrick Wessler. The Patriots have held five of their past eight opponents under 50 points and have won nine straight as they enter the playoffs. Andrew Stark/MMHW photo
sists) patrols the paint along with senior De’Drick Givens (5.2 points and 5.7 rebounds) while Butler transfer Jalen Hinton (10.7 points) has fit in well. Junior Tachai Miller is probably their top reserve, but the up-tempo Patriots go nine or 10 players deep, which can wear teams down this time of year. Even so, Davis knows the rigors
gets everybody involved more than just two or three people having to do most of the work.” The added help has paid off for the Patriots, who not only have a talented backcourt with Flynn, Milton, DiBenedetto and Thompson, but Gracie Breckeridge (5.8 points and 8.5 rebounds) and Ayanna Anderson (5.7 points and 8.7 rebounds) dominate smaller teams from the inside. “I thought last year’s team was pretty good, but this is definitely the best team we’ve ever had here,” Galvani said. The Patriots defeated Rocky River and Hickory Ridge for the first time this season, but their biggest win of the season to date came with a 56-50 victory over top-seeded Myers Park on Feb. 21 in the Southwestern 4A conference tournament semifinals. “It was really big for us because it’s been so long for us since we’ve beaten Myers Park in general,” Milton said. “For us to be able to accomplish that, it means a lot. Also, it was one of our biggest goals and it is a point proven to people that anyone can be beaten and that we're coming harder this year.”
of the playoffs although he’s ready to see how his team stacks up Feb. 27 against the winner of the Butler-Richmond County game. “I hope we can keep it going and make a run,” Davis said. “But you know this time of year, so we’re just trying to make sure guys are loaded and locked in and take advantage of playing on their home court. I’m definitely excited for it.”
Independence lost in the conference tournament final to Hickory Ridge, but there isn’t much to take away from a team that has done so much together. The Patriots were scheduled to host Olympic Feb. 25 in their first playoff game in nearly a decade. No matter how their season ends, the Patriots have been program-changers this season. “This year has been very rewarding,” Galvani said. “The girls that are seniors now have not only worked hard this year for it, but over the past four years they’ve done a lot to get to this point and they’ve earned the right to play in the playoffs.” As Flynn and the other five seniors lace them up for the playoff ride, she knows wherever this run ends, it will be one not soon forgotten. “We’ve worked for this, we kept pushing and now to see us getting the wins we usually would have lost, it’s a great feeling,” Flynn said. “I know I’m leaving this place having made a difference for Independence girls basketball.”
Leigh Altman www.LeighAltman.com
For County Commission At-Large
• Experienced Community Leader ✯ Precinct Chair in Mecklenburg County Democratic Party ✯ Democratic Women of Meck. County Executive Board ✯ Juvenile Crime Prevention Council ✯ Habitat for Humanity
• Public Interest Attorney for 17 Years • Mother to Three CMS Students Community Endorsements Jennifer De La Jara CMS School Board, At-Large
Hugh McColl Former Chairman and CEO of Bank of America
George Dunlap Chairman of the Mecklenburg County Commission
Dan McCready Former Candidate for U.S. House
Shirley Fulton Superior Court Judge (Ret.)
Susan Rodriguez-McDowell Mecklenburg County Commissioner
Renee Garner Matthews Mayor Pro-Tem
Lee Myers Former Mayor of Matthews
Susan Harden Mecklenburg County Commissioner
Jennifer Roberts Former Mayor of Charlotte
Patsy Kinsey Former Mayor and City Councilwoman
Rev. Dwayne Anthony Walker Little Rock A.M.E. Zion Church
The County Commission oversees a $1.9 billion budget for public health, mental health, education, welfare, and the environment. YOUR VOTE MATTERS.
Early Voting Begins February 13th
For Locations and Times: 704-336-2133 or www.meckboe.org Vote for Capable and Caring Leadership in County Government! PA I D F O R B Y L E I G H A LT M A N F O R C O U N T Y C O M M I S S I O N
Page 4A • Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly • Feb. 28, 2020
VICK (continued from page 1A)
and Mark Wireman), Lake Park (Kristen Bowman), Stallings (Kathy Heyse), Waxhaw (Fred Burrell) and Union County (Lance Simpson). Indian Trail serves as an interesting case study. Stanton took a job out of town, Wireman cited work getting busy and Keistler left for “personal reasons.” They all left within two years of a four-year term. That's why I am a little skeptical about Mint Hill's plans of putting a bond referendum regarding term limits on a future ballot. Voters will decide whether to extend elected leaders' terms from two to four years, as well as staggering them out. “This particular year, we had almost a full turnover of the board of commissioners, so you have to get a little concerned about continuity,” Simmons said during the Feb. 13 commissioners meeting. Matthews and Mint Hill have been fortunate to have experienced leaders serve over the past decade. But you have to attribute that to the voters for placing such a high value on experience. Both towns faced the potential of entirely new boards with the 2019 election. Matthews Mayor Paul Bailey was the only incumbent to lose, but he was defeated by a sitting commissioner in John Higdon. What voters may not realize when it comes to granting elected leaders longer terms is that when someone leaves a board, it's up to the board to decide how they fill that vacant seat. They could potentially opt to appoint the next-highest votegetter in the most recent election, but more than
likely, they're going to appoint someone that best aligns with their vision. In recent years, Matthews and Mint Hill have appointed former commissioners to fill vacancies. Matthews replaced Joseph Pata in 2015 with George Fossett, a commissioner from the 1990s. When Commissioner Tina Ross died in office in July 2018, Mint Hill summoned Mickey Ellington back to the board months after a tearful sendoff. Mecklenburg County commissioners put a similar referendum on the ballot in 2015, but that failed. Charlotte City Council mulled it over but chose not to go through with it. I realize some elected leaders feel they are constantly campaigning under twoyear terms, but I find the current system keeps the community engaged. If Mayor Simmons and commissioners Mike Cochrane, Dale Dalton, Patrick Holton and Tony Long continue to listen to their constituents as they did during their campaigns, they may see long reigns. When you go against the will of the people, however, you get voted out. If we lived in Mecklenburg County, Virginia, then four-year terms would be appropriate. But the communities surrounding Charlotte are exploding. Last week, a story appeared in our newspaper that estimated the region's population is expected to increase by 1 million people by 2030. Changing demographics bring new perspectives and different attitudes. Plus, a lot can happen in four years. A commissioner may want to take a break from public service, go for a work promotion or move closer to grandchildren.
Matthews Town Hall/Library was the sole early voting site in Matthews. Mint Hill residents could vote early at their local library branch. Kayla Berenson/MMHW photo
VOTING (continued from page 1A)
“This is a position she is so well-suited for. She’s also so organized and detail-oriented. And she recognizes that she can use that position to invest in progressive organizations to further progressive issues.” Forbes said because many people are focused on the Democratic presidential primary, they are unsure about the other candidates. Forbes said though she has not had many lengthy discussions with voters, some have stopped to listen and learn about Ajmera. Early voting is a popular option for Meck-
lenburg County voters. In the 2018 midterm election primary, 20,270 Mecklenburg County residents voted early. As of Feb. 23, 2,340 Mecklenburg County residents have voted in the primary election. Residents who wish to vote but missed the Feb. 7 registration deadline still have until early voting ends to register. To register during early voting, voters must bring their proof of North Carolina residency to an early voting site and can register and vote that day. A list of approved forms to prove residency and a list of early voting locations and hours can be found at www.meckboe. gov. Election Day voting takes place from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. March 3 at your designated polling place.
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HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Nygell Verdier
INDEPENDENCE BASKETBALL Verdier scored 26 points to go with 11 rebounds and four assists in the Patriots 74-60 win over Porter Ridge Feb. 22, giving Indy the SW4A conference and regular season titles for three straight seasons. Are you a coach and know an incredible athlete you’d like us to feature? email us at Andrew@cmgweekly.com
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Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly • Feb. 28, 2020 • Page 5A
CRIME SCENE
DEMENT (continued from page 1A)
the Town of Matthews effective immediately,” Dement said in a statement. “It has been an honor to serve this wonderful town and its people, and it is my hope, if the citizens of Matthews desire, I will have a future opportunity to serve again.” Dement, a native of Mint Hill, moved to Matthews in 2007. She was appointed to the Matthews Planning Board in 2014 and eventually chaired the group. Dement campaigned for town commissioner in 2017, the same year her husband, Ed, passed away. She earned the second most votes among 10 candidates. “It has been a pleasure to serve alongside Barbara,” Higdon said in a statement. “We appreciate her service to the town board, and we will strive to fill her position with someone who shares her enthusiasm and love for Matthews.” Leaders make a scramble The board convened shortly before their Feb. 24 meeting to discuss how they would fill Dement's seat, but members did not come to a resolution. When Joe Pata resigned from the board in July 2015, commissioners appointed George Fossett to fill the remaining months of the term. Fossett served on the commission from 1993 to 1999, but he did not campaign for office the term prior to or following his appointment. Commissioners could have opted to bring back a familiar face or the next highest vote-getter in the election. Corey Hughes, a small business owner who served as McCool's youth basketball coach, urged the board to respect the results of the November election and appoint McCool to the vacancy. “This is not time for a caretaker of this seat to be named,” Hughes said during the public comment portion of the Feb. 24 meeting. “Rather, it is time to show the voters you listen.” Toward the end of the meeting, Higdon mentioned Dement's resignation and the search for her successor. “We're still working through that process,” Higdon said. “We have not finalized a process or even the candidates that would be considered. That's going to be discussed at a future meeting after our planning conference.” That's when Miller intervened. The rise of McCool At the age of 21, McCool was the youngest of the 11 candidates running for commissioner. He told Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly in October that growth was among the biggest challenges facing the town.
Ken McCool explains his platform during Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly’s election forum in fall 2019. He shared a table with Jeff Miller (left) and Allen Crosby. This was McCool’s first political campaign. MMHW file photo
“I wanted to bring a young perspective to the town and really make sure we are growing in the right way,” McCool said. During the campaign, McCool spoke out against the stealing of candidates' signs. He also drew applause at a candidate forum when he called out Mayor Paul Bailey for saying candidates that complain about signs are showing desperation. The campaign was full of tension. Two factions formed – at least when it came to political advertising. On one side was Bailey, the three incumbent commissioners and challengers Ben Bash, Dave Bland and Allen Crosby. The other side included Higdon, McCool and other challengers. Voters wound up picking people from both camps. On the night of the election, McCool was within single digits of the last seat. He sought a recount, but the votes weren't there. He told supporters that he was going to continue to be a "vocal voice" in town. Three months later, Dement resigned and McCool's voice carries much more weight than ever before. “I'm excited to serve the Town of Matthews and to work towards building a brighter future for generations to come,” McCool said. “I'm also looking forward to working collaboratively with the board, and I thank them for their support. I would like to thank Ms. Dement for her service to the town."
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BID:
Sealed proposals will be received by Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity for the repair of a crack foundation in a single-family residence beginning Thursday February 6th 2020 thru Thursday February 27th @ 3:00 PM: Bid Location: 2447 East John Street Matthews, NC 28105. This project is being funded by Community Development Block Grant. Greater Matthews Habitat will receive, open and read publicly all bids received on Friday December 13th at 3:00 PM. Facsimile or email submissions are permitted. Sealed bids are to be hand delivered to the bid opening location noted above, or mailed. Sealed Bids can be delivered before 4:00 pm the day BEFORE the day of the bid. A non-mandatory pre-bid walk-through is highly recommended and can be scheduled by contacting Andy Smith. All questions should be forwarded to the project’s Construction Manager, Andy Smith @ (704) 847-4266 ext. 109 or email andy@habitatmatthews.org. Please contact us to receive the complete Invitation to Bid Instructions.
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BID:
Sealed proposals will be received by Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity for a substantial rehab project if a single-family residence beginning Thursday February 6th 2020 thru Thursday February 27th @ 3:00 PM: Bid Location: 2447 East John Street Matthews, NC 28105. This project is being funded by Community Development Block Grant. Greater Matthews Habitat will receive, open and read publicly all bids received on Friday, December 13th at 3:00 PM. Facsimile or email submissions are permitted. Sealed bids are to be hand delivered to the bid opening location noted above, or mailed. Sealed Bids can be delivered before 4:00 pm the day BEFORE the day of the bid. A non-mandatory pre-bid walk-through is highly recommended and can be scheduled by contacting Andy Smith. All questions should be forwarded to the project’s Construction Manager, Andy Smith @ (704) 847-4266 ext. 109 or email andy@habitatmatthews.org. Please contact us to receive the complete Invitation to Bid Instructions.
The Mint Hill Police Department reported these incidents Feb. 10-22: Assault/Threats • 5300 block of Wilgrove-Mint Hill Road: Hit & run. Feb. 21 • 9700 block of Markus Drive: Simple assault. Feb. 20 Break-Ins • 2100 block of Cadence Trace Drive: Burglary/breaking & entering. Feb. 13 (2 cases) • 3000 block of Marchers Trace Drive: Burglary/breaking & enterting. Feb. 13 (7 cases) • 3100 block of Marchers Trace Drive: Burglary/breaking & entering. Feb. 13 (7 cases) • 9200 block of Blair Road: Burglary/breaking & entering. Feb. 18 • 9500 block of Stoney Glen Drive: Burglary/ breaking and entering. Feb. 10 • 14800 block of Belleglade Trail: Burglary/ breaking & entering. Feb. 19 (2 cases) • 15100 block of Ockeechobee Court: Burglary/breaking & entering. Feb. 19 (2 cases) • 15300 block of Altomonte Avenue: Burglary/ breaking & entering. Feb. 19 Break-Ins, Vehicle • 5100 block of Stoney Pond Lane: Theft from vehicle. Feb. 11 Fraud/Forgery • 4700 block of Carving Tree Drive: Identity theft. Feb. 18 Property Damage • 3500 block of Mintstone Drive: Destruction/ damage/vandalism of property. Feb. 19 • 5700 block of Wilgrove-Mint Hill Road: Willful and wanton injury to real property. Feb. 13 • 6600 block of Long Road: Destruction/damage/vandalism of property. Feb. 12 • 10200 block of Idlewild Road: Destruction/ damage/vandalism of property. Feb. 12 Robbery • 9200 block of Lawyers Road: Robbery. Feb. 17 Thefts • 4300 block of Wilgrove-Mint Hill Road: Larceny. Feb. 10 • 4300 block of Wilgrove-Mint Hill Road: Larceny. Feb. 11 • 7000 block of Plough Drive: Larceny. Feb. 12 • 8100 block of Blair Road: Larceny. Feb. 19 • 9500 block of Surface Hill Road: Larceny. Feb. 17 • 10300 block of Albemarle Road: Larceny. Feb. 19 Other • 9600 block of Stoney Glen Drive: Warrant service for offense committed in another jurisdiction. Feb. 11 • 10600 block of Stone Bunker Drive: Flee to elude & carrying a concealed weapon. Feb. 22
Page 6A • Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly • Feb. 28, 2020
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Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly • Feb. 28, 2020 • Page 1B
8 ways to celebrate
Saint Patrick’s Day You can bet your lucky charms that restaurants and bars across the region will serve green beer and Irish-inspired dishes in honor of St. Patrick's Day. But you can also find more immersive experiences that promote community and culture. Here's a heads up on eight major events and festivals being planned for St. Patrick's Day.
MMHW file photos
Charlotte St. Patrick’s Day Parade Jim Mannix, president of the Notre Dame Club of Charlotte, will serve as the grand marshal for the 24th annual parade. He'll be joined by pipe bands, dancers, drum lines and beauty queens. More than 135 entries will participate. The parade starts at North Tryon and 9th streets. It continues south to 3rd Street, where it takes a left and marches down 3rd Street to Caldwell Street. • When: 11 a.m. March 14 • Where: Uptown Charlotte • Details: www.charlottestpatsday.com
Shamrock Crawl We haven't received anything official about the sixth annual festival, but hot spots along downtown Matthews, such as Carolina Beer Temple, Seaboard Brewing, The Loyalist Market and Grace O'Malley's Irish Public House, are already making plans in anticipation for the celebration. The Carolina Beer Temple, Seaboard and The Loyalist will have Irish brews, while Grace O'Malley's will have DJ Moe rocking the patio. We'll keep you updated as more details emerge. • When: Times vary March 14 • Where: Downtown Matthews • Details: www.facebook.com/MatthewsSham rockCrawl St. Patrick’s Weekend Party Details are beginning to form like a beautiful glass of Guinness in regarding Mary O’Neill’s annual St. Patrick weekend. Lipstick on a Pig and Smokin' Gunn are among bands that will be rocking the Irish pub. South Charlotte Dog Rescue will be among the vendors at the event. • When: March 13 and 14 • Where: 116 W. North Main St., Waxhaw • Details: www.maryoneills.com
Charlotte St. Patrick’s Day Festival Come for the parade but stay for the festival. The Charlotte Goes Green/St. Patrick’s Day Festival features more than 60 vendors selling arts, crafts, food and drink. The event includes live music, Irish dancers and a Celtic Kidz Zone. • When: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. March 14 • Where: South Tryon Street from 3rd Street to Levine Avenue of the Arts, Charlotte • Details: www.charlottestpatsday.com Murder Most Green Murder Mystery The Charlotte Murder Mystery Company brings a fun whodunit to Treehouse Vineyards. Make your reservations today to help solve the mystery of who killed Patrick Flaherty, the owner of a 100-year old plant nursery. Tickets cost $20, which include a drink. • When: 3:30-6 p.m. March 15 • Where: 301 Bay St., Monroe • Details: www.treehousevineyards.com Celtic Festival The eighth annual Celtic Festival attracts musicians, dancers, bagpipers and warriors. It’s a great place to check out historic encampments, as well as watch traditional competitive games. Food trucks and craft beer will be available. Admission costs $9 for ages 13 and older, $8 for ages 6-12 and 62 and older, free for ages 5 and younger. • When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 14 and 15 • Where: Latta Plantation, 5225 Sample Road, Huntersville • Details: www.lattaplantation.org
Green River Revival There's probably not a better venue to celebrate St. Patrick's Day than a green river, but that's one of several reasons to check out the U.S. National Whitewater Center. The festivities kick off with the Color Me Green 5K Trail Run. They continue with yoga and live music from Joslyn & The Sweet Compression and Lee Fields & The Expressions. • When: 9 a.m.-7 p.m. March 14 • Where: 5000 Whitewater Center Pkwy., Charlotte • Details: www.usnwc.org St. Paddy's Fest! You're going to get more than a night of green beer at a place named Grace O'Malley's Irish Public House. The restaurant is planning a week's worth of activities in celebration, including the Shamrock Crawl on March 14, a parking lot party with music and bounce house on March 15, Irish trivia on March 16, St. Patrick's Day Party on March 17 and the Whisk[e]y Club of Matthews tasting Jameson on March 18. • When: Various times March 14-18 • Where: 157 N. Trade St., Matthews • Details: www.gomalleys.com
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Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly • Feb. 28, 2020 • Page 2B
DINING SCORES Health departments in Mecklenburg and Union counties inspected these restaurants Feb. 14-20: Lowest Scores • Bojangles’, 6915 Albemarle Road, Charlotte – 86.5 Violations include: Certified person in charge wasn’t available; employees weren’t aware of health policy; staffer swept floors and attempted to put on gloves before working with foods; roasted chicken bites fell on counter and were placed back in pan with bare hands; sink was missing hand towels; roasted chicken bites weren’t held hot enough; and multiple foods weren’t held cold enough. • J Birds Burger Jointe, 7920 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill – 91 Violations include: Certified person in charge wasn’t available; staffer cracked raw shell egg and flipped pancakes and other foods on grill after wiping gloves on wiping cloth; ground beef patties were above ready-toeat hot dogs in cooler; and sanitizer wasn’t at proper concentration. Matthews (Mecklenburg) • Baltimore Crab Cake Company (mobile food), 131 E. John St. – 98 • Good Cup, 435 N. Trade St. – 98.5 • The Loyalist Market, 435 N. Trade St. – 98 Matthews (Union) • Harris Teeter (deli), 5920 Weddington-Monroe Road – 99 • Harris Teeter (meats/seafood), 5920 Weddington-Monroe Road – 100 • Hot Wok, 5943 Weddington-Monroe Road – 99.5 Charlotte (28227) • Bojangles’, 6915 Albemarle Road – 86.5 Charlotte (28270) • Cook Out, 1815 Sardis Road N. – 94.5 • Nourish, 1421 Orchard Lake Drive – 98.5 Mint Hill • J Birds Burger Jointe, 7920 Matthews-Mint HIll Road – 91 Stallings • New Asia Market, 4400 Potter Road – 95 • New Asia Market (meat market), 4400 Potter Road – 99 Indian Trail • Chick-fil-A, 13801 E. Independence Blvd. – 99 • Panera Bread, 14035 U.S. 74 – 97 • Smoothie King, 208 Postage Way – 93 • Wendy’s, 13810 E. Independence Blvd. – 94
PACKED WITH FLAVOR
White Duck Taco finds home in Charlotte region by Karie Simmons karie@cmgweekly.com
CHARLOTTE – Jason Haas felt the taco scene in Charlotte was lacking some international flavor. That’s why he and business partner Jeff Carter fought hard to bring White Duck Taco to the Queen City. “Authentic tacos are good, but there’s a limited range of what you can do there and there’s something fun about different flavors and offering that on a small plate,” Haas said. The Asheville-based eatery, which also operates locations in Greenville, S.C., Johnson City, Tenn., and Nashville, Tenn., specializes in scratch-made tacos with unique flavor profiles – like Bangkok shrimp, banh mi tofu, jerk chicken, mole roasted duck and Thai peanut chicken – served à la carte for $3.75 to $5.50 each. Other tacos include black bean and cheese, spicy buffalo chicken, crispy pork belly (Haas’ favorite),
fish, BBQ pork carnitas, steak and cheese, lamb gyro and shrimp and grits. Jackfruit can also be substituted on any taco to make it vegetarian. “And if we take out a sauce on a lot of them, it makes it vegan,” Haas said. There’s also beer from local breweries, margaritas, sangria and Cheerwine slushies with or without bourbon. Haas and Carter, who holds the franchising rights for the Charlotte locations, searched for years to find the perfect space for White Duck Taco before landing on the corner of East 10th Street and Seigle Avenue in the Belmont neighborhood. “The price is high in Charlotte and for restaurants, your rent can kill you,” Haas said. “There were some great locations that had a lot of promise, but the rent was just too high.” When they quietly opened in December, it didn’t take long for people to notice. Haas said word spread fast and popularity surged with lines
Asheville-based White Duck Taco is putting its stamp on Charlotte with international tacos served à la carte. Karie Simmons/MMHW photos
forming at the door before they even had time to unlock them. The response has been so positive that Haas and Carter are already planning to expand further into the Charlotte region. Haas could only confirm one location, but he hinted that others are in the works. “We know we’re in Matthews be-
cause we bought a site, but beyond that, we just don’t know,” he said. Want to go? White Duck Taco is open from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday at 1020 E. 10th St., Suite 3.
Montes continues directing despite near-death experience by Kayla Berenson kayla@cmgweekly.com
PINEVILLE – The phrase, “the show must go on” has never rung truer to Pineville Players director Eva Montes, who was hit by a car and hospitalized prior to her show’s opening. Three months after the accident, Montes is still in a wheelchair. She was walking and got hit by a car in November, causing her to fly 30 feet. Montes said she crushed her left arm and left leg and broke her back, vertebrae and ribs. “It’s a miracle I’m alive, let alone directing a play,” Montes said. Despite all of the injuries she incurred, Montes will be able to walk again. Her passion for directing and her love for the upcoming play, “Down To Earth,” kept Montes going throughout her recovery. “Down to Earth” is a comedic play set in the 1940s. It follows two angels who descend to Earth to pick up two elderly souls. Trouble ensues when a third angel tags along to cause some mischief. Montes said she knows audiences will enjoy the play and its surprise ending. She has directed hundreds of shows, but “Down to Earth” is the first she is directing a second time. Something drew her back to this play, even before the accident. “It’s a play about angels, and I really feel like in real life, my angels protected me because I should be dead,” Montes said. After the accident, one of the new actresses in “Down To Earth” asked Montes if the show would be canceled.
Directing “Down to Earth” hit home for Eva Montes. The Pineville Players production is about angels coming to earth to pick up souls. Montes was badly injured after getting hit by a car. Photos courtesy of Pineville Players
“I may not be able to walk, but my mouth still moves,” Montes told her. “I would have to be in a coma for me not to be directing.” The process of directing, however, has presented many challenges. Montes said she and her actors used the conference room at the rehabilitation center for rehearsals after the accident. She also can’t move around as much in the wheelchair and has people drive her to rehearsals. She has also put strain on her right arm from moving it so much without the use of her left arm, which is still broken. Montes said for other shows, she has been able to get the word out by driving to local businesses and nurs-
ing homes to advertise, but she has not been able to for this show. Through all of the challenges, she said the actors and members of the community have been “more helpful than ever.” She admitted there have been times she has broken down and cried about the situation. “It’s been challenging and humbling,” Montes said. “It’s been tough, but the show’s going to go on.” Want to watch? The Pineville Players presents “Down to Earth” at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 28 and 29, as well as 2:30 p.m. March 1, at The Hut, Johnston Drive. Tickets are available at www. pinevilleplayers.com.
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Page 3B • Feb. 28, 2020 • Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly
THINGS TO DO Feb. 28-March 8
Home Show The Southern Spring Home & Garden Show offers ideas for enhancing your living environment on two consecutive weekends at the Park Expo and Conference Center. Show hours will be 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays, Feb. 28 to March 1 and March 6 to 8. On-site parking costs $8, and a concession area open during show hours will feature a selection of snacks and beverages. Tickets for adults cost $12 at the door and $10 online. Tickets for children 12 and younger are free. www.charlottespringhomeand gardenshow.com
Various times; 800 Briar Creek Road, Charlotte
Cancer Benefit Stooges Pub & Grub holds a benefit for Momma Judy, who ran the pub's kitchen for nine years. It includes music by Action Jaxxon, Smilin Dogs and Bakkwoods, as well as a bake, craft and yard sale, cornhole tournament, raffle, door prizes and Theauction. New704-545-4084 York Times Syndication Sales Corporation silent 1 p.m.-2 13230Avenue, Albemarle New Grand 620a.m.; Eighth York,Opening N.Y. 10018 Rustic Root Home Decor & More Road, Mint Hill For Information Call:holds 1-800-972-3550 a grand opening celebration. For Release Wednesday, July 10, 2019 The store describes itself as an “upCruise-In scale yet affordable consignment Wrecking Crew Mustang Club
1 Variety show lineup
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8 Longtime product 31 In ___ of with a “Classic 32 Place for a pin White” variety 35 Popular lingerie 13 Weight of an item owned by HanesBrands empty container 36 Co-owner of the Pequod
14 Mideast federation, for short
37 Word with rain or rock 15 Ancient source of 38 Mellow R&B tune prophecy 40 Range org. 16 Exceed the capacity of 41 “I’d consider ___ honor” 18 Doze 42 Legal rights, in 19 2005 dystopian France novel adapted 46 Graffitist, e.g. into a 2010 film 48 Expanse far from 21 Pastries with a ports portmanteau 49 Monuments of name classical antiquity … or what 22 Intoned literally is missing from this puzzle 26 Tick off
ANSWER TO PREVIOUS PUZZLE L A I C
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the Mint Hill Library. 704-416-5200 1-2 p.m.; 6840 Matthews_Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
March 2
Business Expo The Matthews Chamber of Commerce presents the Greater Matthews Business Expo at CPCC Levine. www.matthewschamber.org 4-7 p.m.; 2800 Campus Ridge Road, Matthews
March 3
Coffee With Cop The Mint Hill Police Department holds Coffee with a Cop at Mint Hill Tool Rental. www.minthill.com 8 a.m.; 11223 Blair Road, Mint Hill
March 1
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boutique.” 704-340-7759 1-5 p.m.; 11205 Lawyers Road, Mint Hill
Book Club The Mystery Book Club discusses Ausma Zehanat Khan's “The Unquiet Dead” at the Mint Hill Library. 704416-5200 6-7:30 p.m.; 704-416-5200
Koala Karaoke Kristophers Sports Bar & Restaurants hosts Karaoke for Koalas, a fundraiser benefiting the World Wildlife Federation. Donations of all kinds are accepted. 704-845-6200 8 p.m.-midnight; 250 N. Trade St., Matthews
Feb. 29
History Talks Tom Hanchett explains how women have changed Charlotte as part of Women's History Month at
Edited by Will Shortz
Crossword ACROSS
holds a Leap Day Party that includes karaoke and a muscle car cruise-in at Pour 64. The event supports Good Sports and Peter Kusiak, who is running in the Boston Marathon. 980585-1051 4:30-9:30 p.m.; 4410 Mint Hill Village Lane, Mint Hill
51 The People’s Princess, familiarly 54 English churchyard flora 55 Title girl in a 2001 Oscarnominated French comedy 56 Beehive State native 57 River of northern France 58 Big superhero film of 2017 59 It’s divided by the 38th parallel: Abbr. 60 Some fundraising grps.
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DOWN 1 Without delay 2 Setting for a Pirates of the Caribbean ride 3 ___ Noah, host of “The Daily Show” 4 Wooed à la Don Giovanni 5 Participated in a bee 6 Low-lying areas 7 European of the Iron Age 8 Heavy ankle-high shoe 9 Danger in a uranium mine 10 Prefix with conscious or catastrophe 11 Landon who lost to F.D.R. in 1936 12 Surely, informally 15 Bad artist to re-sign to a record deal 17 Thrifty
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PUZZLE BY RICH PROULX
20 Quick Draw ___ (Hanna-Barbera character) 23 Follow 24 Blade with a bell guard 25 Miraculously effective medicine 27 Brother of Moses and Miriam 30 Loud, as trumpets 31 Sour candy 32 Domain of the Queen of Hearts
33 Subdivision of a subdivision 34 “La Vie en Rose” singer 36 Raise 38 He said “Just because a man lacks the use of his eyes doesn’t mean he lacks vision” 39 Big name in customer satisfaction surveys 41 Stranded during the winter, say
43 Response to “Look!” 44 Mother of Calcutta 45 Gives some lip 47 Havens 48 Have a loan from 50 Three Stooges laugh sound 51 Counselor’s subject 52 “I love,” to a Latin lover
Human Trafficking Officer S. Pride, of the Mecklenburg County Sheriff's Office, talks about human trafficking at the Mint Hill Library. Register in advance. 704-416-5200 6:30-7:30 p.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
March 3-8
Consignment Sale The Green Jeans Consignment
March 4
Lunch & Listen The Lunch and Listen Book Club holds a reading and discusses “This I Believe – Life Lessons” at the Matthews Library.704-416-5000, opt. 4 12:30-1:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews Want to submit? Send calendar events to justin@cmgweekly.com
LOUD&LIVE Feb. 28 • Beantown Tavern: Mark Starnes and the Boys • Coyote Joe’s: Scotty McCreery • Fillmore: KRS-One; Gogo vs. Old School Hip Hop Bash ft. Kid Capri • Mac’s Speed Shop: McKinney Gap • Neighborhood Theatre: Reel Big Fish, Big D and the Kids Table & Keep Flying • Rooftop 210: Yo Gotti • Southern Range: Act Two and JJ Langes Beatz • Stooges Pub: Action Jaxxon • Trail House: U-Phonik • Treehouse Vineyards: Russell N’ Woods Duo • Vintner’s Hill: River Ratz • Visulite: Abacab the Music of Genesis
Feb. 29 • Belk Theatre: Diana Ross • Beantown Tavern: Apple Brothers • Fillmore: Yo Gotti • Kristophers: Karaoke • Mary O’Neill’s: Two of Us • McGlohan Theatre: Kindred Family Soul • Moochies Tavern: Coconut Groove Band • Neighborhood Theatre: Downtown Abby & The Echoes and Ellis Dyson & The Shambles • Pour 64: Karaoke • Rooftop 210: Fabolous; Trey Songz • Stooges Pub: Action Jaxxon, Smilin’ Dogs & Bakkwoodz • Sweet Union: Radio Flyer Bluegrass Band • Trail House: Kids in America • Visulite: The Dirty Doors
March 1 • Fillmore: Jacquees • Oak Room: Lil Boosie & Stunna • Visulite: Audrey Mika w/ Souly Had
March 2 • Belk Theater: Joe Bonamassa
March 3
53 Like F.D.R.: Abbr.
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.
Sale returns to the Levine Senior Center. Hours are 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday; 9 a.m.4 p.m. Friday; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday; & 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday. Visit www. greenjeanssale.com for special shopping events and discounts. Various times; 1050 Devore Lane, Matthews
• DreamChaser’s: Music Bingo • Fillmore: Rufus Du Sol • Whiskey Warehouse:Ellie Morgan
March 4 • Fillmore: Skillet
On the lookout for happy campers?
• Neighborhood Theatre: Trigger Hippy & Revelwood Mission • Visulite: Freekbass & The Bump Assembly
March 5 • Bistro D’Antonio: Will Lee • Carolina Beer Temple: Open Mic w/ Nathan Davis • Jekyll & Hyde: Jaxx & Jacks • Pizza Peel (Matthews): Music Bingo • Visulite: Jason Moss and the Hosses
Venues Charlotte • Belk Theater:130 N. Tryon St. • Coyote Joe’s: 4621 Wilkinson Blvd. • Fillmore: 820 Hamilton St. • McGlohan Theatre: 345 N. College St. • Neighborhood Theatre: 511 E. 36th St. • Oak Room: 200 E. Bland St. • Rooftop 210: 210 E. Trade St. • Visulite: 1615 Elizabeth Ave. • Whiskey Warehouse: 1221 The Plaza Indian Trail • Sweet Union: 13717 E. Independence Blvd. • Trail House: 6751 Old Monroe Road Matthews • Beantown Tavern: 130 Matthews Station St. • Jekyll & Hyde: 316 N. Trade St. • Kristophers: 250 N. Trade St. • Mac’s Speed Shop: 142 E. John St. • Moochies Tavern: 15060 Idlewild Road • Pizza Peel: 110 Matthews Station St. Mint Hill • Pour 64: 4410 Mint Hill Village Lane • Stooges Pub: 13230 Albemarle Road • Vintner’s Hill: 7427 Matthews-Mint Hill Road Monroe • Southern Range: 151 S. Stewart St. • Treehouse Vineyards: 301 Bay St. Waxhaw • Bistro D’Antonio: 3909 Providence Road S. • DreamChaser’s: 115 E. N. Main St. • Mary O’Neill’s: 116 W. N. Main St.
2020
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Historical society holding barn raising The barn site is ready. The concrete foundation and floor have been poured courtesy Contributor of Blue Dot Redi Mix of Mint Hill. It has MINT HILL – A barn raising historical- dried, set and been inspected. When Mr. ly is a collective action of a community in Rogers' crew of three arrive, they will spend which a barn is built or rebuilt collectively the first day assembling the bents on the by members of the community. It combines ground. Then with the help of modern techsocialization with a practical goal whereby nology, a crane will raise them into position. participants are committed to helping one After erecting the timber frame, it will be clad with 10-inch barn boards and four-inch another. The Mint Hill Historical Society pur- roof boards. Barn boards will be placed on chased an 1880s wood peg timber frame saw horses so folks who want to help, can barn with mortise and tenon joint con- stain them before Mr. Rogers’ crew nails struction from Marion Rogers of Ohio. It them to the timber frame. As money and volunteer labor allow, will have five bents. Construction involves lean-tos will be added on both sides of the planning, organization, supplies and manual barn for bathrooms, a warming kitchen and labor. “stalls.” Mr. Rogers and his wife are members of Preserving history for the community is the Church of the Brethern. They live a simfun and rewarding. ple, life very similar to the Amish. The Carl J. McEwen Historic Village in Barn raisings are common among Amish downtown Mint Hill is already a destination who often work together for the good of for tourism, students and the community. their community and where a barn raising is Visitors come daily just to feel the tranquilimore than an act of kindness, it is an act of ty and to stroll the pathways. When the barn necessity. A barn raising, therefore, may inis completed, it will provide local agriculturclude people you don't even know but who al history, educational programs and a place know that a barn is a necessity on every farm. for public gatherings. In that same community effort, the Mint The Mint Hill Historical Society is a doHill Historical Society encourages and welnation-dependent organization operating comes community participation. by Suzanne McDonald
The Mint Hill Historical Society is erecting a barn in the Carl J. McEwen Historic Village in downtown Mint Hill. MMHW file photo
100% on donations. Progress depends on the generosity of the community and the society’s two major fundraisers, the Mint Hill Rodeo in April and the Christmas Tea in December.
Want to help? Call the Mint Hill Historical Society at 704-573-0726 or email historical@bell south.net. Follow the Mint Hill Historical Society on Facebook for updates on the barn.
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NEW BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT:
Calvin’s Craft Cookies turns used brewery grains into dog treats by Karie Simmons karie@cmgweekly.com
CHARLOTTE – Breweries only use grains like barley, oats, wheat, millet, rye and rice in the first step of the beer-making process – when they’re soaked in water to extract sugar. Some of what’s left is donated to local farmers, but a lot still goes to waste. Not any more. Eric Westerduin and Sheera Bursch, co-founders of Calvin’s Craft Cookies, are upcycling those grains into nutrient-packed treats for dogs. The Charlotte-based duo has been making the treats since January thanks to used grains donated from Pilot Brewing, Town Brewing Co., The Unknown Brewing Company, Divine Barrel Brewing and The Suffolk Punch. The treats are peanut butter flax flavor and made of brewer’s grains, unbleached all-purpose flour, peanut butter and cinnamon. There is no meat, fillers or preservatives. The next flavor for release is apples and cheese. Calvin’s Craft Cookies are packaged in recyclable aluminum cans that each contain approximately 45 cookies and retail for $8.99 online and at breweries, veterinary clinics, pet grooming salons and pet supply stores across the Charlotte region. Every month, 15% of proceeds are donated to a different local animal rescue group. Westerduin said he came up with the idea for Calvin’s Craft Cookies (named after his mini dachshund) after winning a contest to brew his own beer at Unknown Brewing Company. That’s when he learned about the beer-making process and what happens to all the leftover grains. “I thought, there must be a better way to reuse these grains and recycle them because they’re still so nutritious,” he said. An entrepreneur with a background in business and finance, Westerduin has started a handful of small businesses
over the years. He works at Suite Plants, a company he co-founded in 2012 that’s based in Charlotte and manufactures custom living plant wall systems for indoor and outdoor spaces. Bursch is the director of marketing at Suite Plants but was a veterinary technician and veterinary nurse for many years. Before agreeing to join Calvin’s Craft Cookies, Bursch said she took a hard look at the grains that would go into the treats from a veterinary health standpoint. “During the brewing process, they’ve taken out the sugar and what you’re left with are these really nutritious grains,” Bursch said. “They have protein. They have fiber. They have carbs. They’d be really good dog treats. Plus, the grains they get for craft breweries are such high quality.” As soon as Bursch and Westerduin got their hands on some brewer’s grains, they began experimenting in their own kitchens and testing variations of treats on their dogs. It didn’t take long to nail down the final recipe. “That was the key,” Bursch said. “If the dogs didn’t like it, it wasn’t going to work out.” When it came to packaging, they knew they wanted Calvin’s Craft Cookies to be different. Westerduin said most dog treats sold in stores are packaged in single-use plastic bags, which didn’t fit with their sustainable and eco-friendly brand, so they decided to do beer cans instead. Not only are the cans aluminum and recyclable, but they’re also eye-catching at local breweries and pet stores. “I think we’re in the position where if breweries had a box of Milk-Bones behind the bar, no one would care, but they see the cans and they’re like, ‘Oh my God!’” Westerduin said. Jeff Hudson, who owns Pilot Brewing in Plaza Midwood with his wife, Rachael, said grains are one of four main ingredients of beer. The grains are soaked in water to extract sugar and the sugary liquid is used later in the fermen-
tation process to make alcohol. After the liquid is drained, the grains are set aside and the beer-making process continues. Hudson donates his spent grains to farmers who use them to feed livestock, but he was happy to also give some to Bursch and Westerduin. “It really was no sweat,” Hudson said. “They only use so little, so it’s not hard to share it with people like that.” Bursch and Westerduin said the breweries have been generous, and that’s helped with production. Since starting Calvin’s Craft Cookies earlier this year, Bursch said they’ve been doing everything themselves, from picking up the grains to making, canning and delivering the treats. It’s manageable now, she said, but they may have to find a co-packing facility in the future to handle the demand. “Hopefully, we grow enough to need that,” Bursch said. “Charlotte is such a craft brewery and dog-friendly city, this should be a home run for us,” Westerduin said.
Above: Calvin’s Craft Cookies can be found at several locations across the Charlotte region, including Pet in the City (9600 Monroe Road, Charlotte) and Woof 'n Hoof (7710 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill). Visit www.calvinscraft cookies.com for more locations. Below: Eric Westerduin (left) and Sheera Bursch (right) are the co-founders of Calvin’s Craft Cookies, a Charlotte-based startup that makes sustainable dog treats using spent grains from local breweries. Karie Simmons/MMHW photos
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