Union County Weekly Jan. 14, 2022

Brought to you by Charlotte Media Group

PAGE 3A

00

2–202

2

Union County

INSIDE ▼ Bank of America changing overdraft fees

2

YEARSE

Brought to you by Charlotte Media Group

Friday, Jan. 14, 2022 • Vol. 16 • No. 2

thecharlotteweekly.com/ucweekly

@ucweekly

Buddy-Ball is about the experience

by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

ABOUT US P.O. BOX 1104 Matthews, NC 28106 (704) 849-2261 charlottemediagroup.org

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Living a legacy

MATTHEWS – Rick Johnston was nervous heading into his first week of coaching Bambino Buddy-Ball.

Johnston had been a coach for many years and he has served people with special needs through Carmel Baptist Church. His concern was how those two skills would mesh together at Arthur Goodman Park.

“I realized the pressure was

not on making sure I teach these kids how to turn a double play or proper relay techniques to get the ball in from the outfield,” Johnston said. “It’s more of just how to provide a good experience for the kids.”

The Matthews Athletic Recreation Association has been offering Bambino Buddy-Ball for children and young adults with special needs for more than 10 years. Games are organized but not competitive. The goal here is having fun.

Johnston said it’s important

for these young people to have the same opportunities as others to play with their friends while their parents cheer them on from the stands.

“Our one hour together might be their only hour of the whole week where they can just sit back and have fun watching their kids,” Johnston said of parents. “Our kids deserve this opportunity as much as the crazy competitive travel ball.”

MARA works to remove as

Buddies ensure that participants enrolled in the Bambino Buddy-Ball team get the best experience possible. Photo courtesy of MARA

see MARA, Page 5A

ENDING HUNGER See page 1B

Wingate awards MLK honors, 5A

Some notes heading into a new semester

by Andrew Houlihan Contributor

Editor's note: Superintendent Andrew Houlihan delivered these remarks during the Jan. 11 school board meeting.

Lending ideas Heritage Festival looks for volunteers, 1B

Tune in Radio station expands its frequency, 3B

Common Heart is gearing up for its fifth annual Hunger Walk fundraiser. Photos courtesy of Common Heart

Inspiration Get home & garden ideas from show, 2B

Cookie craving?

Girl Scouts are taking orders, 2B

Beechwood bringing in luxury homes

CHARLOTTE – The Beechwood Organization will break ground in early 2022 on four new luxury residential communities, including 319 homes in Mecklenburg, Union and Catawba counties.

The first communities to break ground since Beechwood’s entry to the Carolinas in May 2021 are in Union County.

The first is Weddington Glen, located off Hemby Road near Providence Road and I-485. It boasts 35 estate homes in Weddington and will be followed

by Broadmoor with 62 custom homes in Marvin.

Both communities lead the way for two previously-announced communities from Beechwood – Ferncliff at Cotswold, a community of five townhomes in Mecklenburg County, and Lakeside Pointe on Lake Norman of Catawba County, a mixedused community with 217 new

Each community will showcase home styles designed specifically for their location. Here is a rendering of a home at Ferncliff at Cotswold.

Photo courtesy of The Beechwood Organization

homes and a community marina.

“As we grow our presence in the Carolinas, Beechwood explored Weddington, and each additional site under development, as the lo-

cations where we could thoughtfully expand our portfolio,” Regional President Robert Kardos see HOMES, Page 5A

We are very happy to be back and looking forward to starting the second semester of this school year soon.

As we reflect on the first semester.

I do want to talk for a brief moment about some challenges we had last semester and really get us poised to start second semester off in a very good way.

Much like school systems across the country. UCPS wit- Houlihan nessed a higher level of discipline in our schools and discipline challenges than in past years. I’d like to remind our students and parents about a few expectations as we move forward in the school year.

Number one, we have a very strict code of conduct that will be enforced.

I want to ask our students to please make good decisions when it comes to social media, how you react to conflict with your peers and make sure that each and every day our schools are the safest they can be.

Parents, please continue to partner with us on all things safety and work with your child’s teacher and administrators in a positive manner.

Secondly, please continue to use the Say Something anonymous reporting app. We have teams across the district to respond to all tips. We have a wonderful relationship with law enforcement. If you see something, please say something.

Finally, we’ve also seen a dramatic uptick on mental health referrals. So to our students, if you need help or in crisis, please ask for help. We have experts in every school who are here for you and ready to assist you if needed.

I also like to give a few athletic updates as we close out the fall season. We had a lot of high school teams that made very successful playoff runs in every sport, highlighted by the women’s cross country team from Cuthbertson with another state championship and the women’s tensee SCHOOL, Page 5A

Weddingto track star page 26

Page 2A • The Weekly • Jan. 14, 2022

STAY CONNECTED • Twitter and Instagram: @mmhweekly. @ucweekly, @southcltweekly, @weekly waxhaw and @itncweekly • Like us on Facebook • E-edition: issuu.com/ carolinaweeklynewspapers

CONTACT US PUBLISHER Adrian Garson adrian@cmgweekly.com MANAGING EDITOR Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com ART DIRECTOR Lonna Koblick art@cmgweekly.com ADVERTISING Charlotte Conway charlotte@cmgweekly.com SUPPORT ADMINISTRATOR Aspen Earley aspen@cmgweekly.com

NEWSLETTER

CHARLOTTE – Gas prices in the Carolinas dropped another one to two cents last week, with motorists continuing to find discounts at the pump – but those prices could soon edge upward due to the price surge in crude oil, which is closing in on $80 per barrel.

Since the global price for oil accounts for nearly half of what consumers pay at the pump, higher oil costs will usually result in higher gasoline costs.

“In times of tight supply it doesn’t take much to put upward pressure on the overall price of oil,” said Tiffany Wright, spokesperson, AAA – The Auto Club Group in the Carolinas. “January gas prices are often driven down because of lower fuel demand but that downward trend could soon come to an end.”

Today’s current gas price average in North Carolina is $3.05, declining one cent on the week. This is 8 cents less than a month ago and 86 cents more than last year.

South Carolina’s current gas price average is $3.01, declining two cents on the week. This average is the same as a month ago and 92 cents more than

last year.

The national average for a gallon of gas rose two cents to $3.30, which is three cents less than a month ago and $1.01 more than last year.

According to new data from the Energy Information Administration, total domestic gasoline stocks rose by 10.1 million bbl last week. On the other hand, gasoline demand decreased from 9.72 million b/d to 8.17 million b/d.

Typically, pump prices decline due to lower gas demand and a rise in total stocks, but continued growth in the price of crude oil has helped to elevate pump prices. As oil prices continue to climb near $80 a barrel, pump prices will likely follow suit.

Although prices moved lower on Friday due to contract pricing fluctuations at the beginning of the year and demand concerns over the COVID-19 Omicron variant, crude prices increased overall last week after the EIA reported that total domestic crude stocks decreased by 2.1 million bbl last week.

On the web: https:// gasprices.aaa.com

Union County Weekly | 01/11/07 Volume 2, Number 2 • Jan.12-18, 2007

www.unioncountyweekly.com

Waxhaw says no to Wal-Mart Commissioners cite safety, lack of harmony as key problems

T

by Alison Woo editor@unioncountyweekly.com

hirty minutes before the town’s board of commissioners’ meeting was set to begin Tuesday, Jan. 9, the

Alison Woo/UCW photos

AAA: Rising oil prices could push pump prices

In a display of unprecedented community spirit, hundreds of Waxhaw residents Saturday, Jan. 6, packed the gymnasium of Waxhaw Elementary School to speak out about a proposed Wal-Mart at Jackson Station.

Tuesday, Jan. 9, the town’s board of commissioners denied the retailer’s petition to put a 190,000-squarefoot store almost a mile from downtown.

small auditorium at the Museum of the Waxhaws was packed. This petite part of the museum, best known for showcasing Waxhaw’s past, is the site where commissioners meet monthly to discuss present concerns. On this day, they gathered to talk about a decision that could significantly change Waxhaw’s future.

This story began last April when megaretailer Wal-Mart made a bid to open an almost 200,000-square-foot supercenter at Jackson Station, just a mile from historic downtown Waxhaw.

Incensed over clear-cutting of heavily forested acreage on Providence Road, the town’s citizens started to inquire about the Waxhaw’s direction and long-range plan. Community involvement snowballed at an unprecedented quasijudicial public hearing Saturday, Jan. 6, that lasted eight hours and 22 minutes. Of the 92 people who signed up to speak, the majority opposed the proposed Wal-Mart.

Tuesday, it was the commissioners’ turn to speak.

The board needed to base its decision on four key findings of fact, which included that the proposed store did not materially endanger the health or safety of the town and that it was in harmony with the area.

Traffic, which residents say is a huge issue in the area already, was a key sticking point.

Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly | 01/14/11 counties in North Carolina, Shalati was relieved of his duties following a closed-door meeting of the Union County Commissioners held Monday, Jan. 8. It was a surprise for Shalati, who has worked for the county since 1989 and has lived in Union County since 1984.

“It’s not just a workplace but a

Birthday Blessings evolved

by Kate Bacon news@unioncountyweekly.com

One minute, Mike Shalati was Union Name change, move County manager and the next he was to Matthews comes to an unemployed resident. After six years nonprofit managing one of the fastest-growing

Safety first Commissioner Sylvester McManus led the charge. “We already do have a problem with traffic on N.C. 16,” he stated. He cited concerns about increased traffic volume and flow, especially during emergencies, the proposed store plan only offers one way in and out and lacks appropriate turn lanes, especially for 18-wheeler trucks that would need to make deliveries.

Several times during the process, residents complained that locating the supercenter on a two-lane road would be a formula for disaster. McManus said he called local leaders in Burlington, one of two other North Carolina towns where this layout is in use, and local leaders there said that traffic became “dramatically worse.”

Commissioner David Barnes added that N.C. Department of Transportation assessment of traffic in the area received a failing grade. “If we have an ‘F’ now, if we put (in) a Wal-Mart, would there be a low ‘F’ and a high ‘F’?” he asked.

Commissioner Joyce Blythe, a Wal-Mart customer, said traffic was a concern for her too. “I don’t care if they lay out a traffic study from here to Arkansas; it will not show the impact of traffic on our little town,” she added. “I don’t even want to think what traffic would be like from the day after Thanksgiving to Christmas. …

Every month there’s more traffic. No traffic report is going to show that impact.”

Commissioner Max Walker agreed with Blythe and thought that their petition (more on page 5)

News

Shalati speaks

An independent and l

Health

H

Reduce ey

Workplace

Senior res

Health an books.......

ARTS .....

MOVIES .

CROSSW CULINAR SPORTS .

CLASSIF

home,” he said. “I care for this county.

They wanted to go in a new direction.

I’ve been involved in county government since I moved here and worked for the City of Monroe.”

Shalati said his goal was to support the board. “The job of the county manager is to back the board of commissioners in (more on page 6)

by Erica Oglesby news@matthewsminthillweekly.com

Union County Inside U C R l Estate E I d ty Real

Birthday Blessings began in 2005 as a humble service project for the Cervantes family of Mint Hill.

Now, with a name change and an upcoming move, the nonprofit has evolved into a successful organization that will continue to be a lifesaver thousands of homeless children in Mecklenburg County.

The organization is now called Bright Blessings and is moving to Matthews.

A ribbon-cutting celebration and open house will be held Jan. 17 from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at its new locations, 608-A Matthews-Mint Hill Road.

Volunteers are needed to help get the facility, which will be called The Giving Village, ready for its grand opening April 2.

“One of (Bright Blessings) founding goals was to provide relevant, hands-on volunteer opportunities for children and youth,” Amy Cervantes said. “This new

South Charlotte Weekly | 01/08/16

Looking Back Photo courtesy of Bright Blessings

Ryan Behrmann, 5, Alex Cervantes, 8, and Noah Behrmann, 7, help sort and label books in preparation for the move of the Bright Blessings Gift of Literacy library. It’s now “The Book Nook” at The Giving Village.

location, The Giving Village, embodies that goal by creating a comfortable, safe and uplifting environment for families, youth groups and adult groups of all (see Blessings on page 9)

Weddington Wesley Chapel

We continue to celebrate Charlotte Media Group's 20-year anniversary with memories of (TOP) Waxhaw citizens blocking Walmart from entry, (LEFT) Bright Blessings evolving and (ABOVE) future Boston Celtics player Grant Williams tallying 14 points and 11 rebounds in a Providence Day win.

Brand-name, recertified computers starting at $75 Apple, Dell, HP & more - Laptops, Desktops & Accessories Most common repairs - just $40

N.C. approves $165 million refinance plan for Atrium Health Subscribe to our free email newsletter to stay on top of everything we are publishing in print and online, as well as what we’re sharing across our social media platforms. Visit one of our websites for a link to subscribe.

by Nyamekye Daniel Contributor

(The Center Square) – The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Hospital Authority is poised to refinance up to $165 million in bonds at a lower

interest rate, hoping to save $30.2 million.

The North Carolina Local Government Commission voted, 7-1, on Jan. 11 to approve the financing plan.

Borrowing money through bonds allows governments to spread the costs

across multiple years instead of tapping into cash flow or current revenue to cover a project’s expenses.

The LGC, chaired by State Treasurer Dale Folwell, and staffed by the Department of State Treasurer, must monitor the finances of more

than 1,100 local government units. The commission also approves borrowing for the units after determining whether they can afford to repay the debt.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Hospital Authority, better known as Atrium Health,

includes a network of hospitals, emergency departments, urgent care centers and other medical facilities that employ a total of 70,000 employees.

Atrium plans to sell the tax-exempt bonds Jan. 26 on a 21-year term, officials said.

Geeky Eagle www.TheGeekyEagle.com 704.845.0844 11416 E. Independence Blvd.

Ind epe nde nce Blv d.

Pla za

Ma tthe ws

Just west of I-485 in Matthews Plaza (near Ashley Furniture)

www.matthewsminthillweekly.com

Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly • Jan. 14-20, 2011

W

The Weekly • Jan. 14, 2022 • Page 3A

BofA changing overdraft fees CHARLOTTE – Bank of America plans to eliminate non-sufficient funds fees beginning in February and reduce overdraft fees from $35 to $10 beginning in May. The bank will also eliminate the transfer fee associated with its Balance Connect for overdraft protection service in May. “Over the last decade, we have made significant changes to our overdraft services and solutions, reducing clients’ reliance on overdraft, and providing resources to help clients manage their deposit accounts and overall finances responsibly,” said Holly O’Neill, president of retail banking. “Throughout the process we have engaged our National Community Advisory Council for their guidance and feedback on our changes.

These latest steps will further support our clients and empower them to create long-term financial wellness.”

Key milestones have included: · 2010 – Eliminated overdraft fees for consumer clients when using debit cards at the point of sale · 2011 – Introduced courtesy low balance alerts · 2014 – Launched the SafeBalance “no overdraft fee” account · 2017 – Eliminated the extended overdrawn balance charge · 2020 – Created Balance Assist, a low-cost solution to manage short-term liquidity needs · 2021 – Launched Balance Connect for overdraft protection, letting clients link to up to five accounts to avoid overdrafts · Feb 2022 – Will eliminate non-sufficient funds fees · Feb 2022 – Will remove ability for clients to overdraw their accounts at the ATM · May 2022 – Will reduce overdraft fees from $35 to $10 · May 2022 – Will eliminate Balance Connect for overdraft protection transfer fee (formerly $12) “We remain committed to taking actions that will further bring down overdraft fees in the future and continue to empower clients to drive positive changes to behavior pertaining to overdraft,” O’Neill said.

BUSINESS BRIEFS Retail tenants announced for Hazel SouthPark

Allen Tate Insurance names growth, business manager

Attorney General asks people to report COVID test gouging

CHARLOTTE – Hazel SouthPark recently announced four new retail tenants.

• House of Nomad: The full-service design studio, totaling 2,034 square feet, offers eclectic, modern style.

• JINYA Ramen Bar: The restaurant concept leased a 7,041-square-foot space. Its 20-plus hour slowly simmered, Pacific-style ramen broths balance flavors from whole pork bones, chicken, vegetables and classic Japanese ingredients.

• Toska Spa: The 2,689-square-foot spa features facial and body treatments, waxing, tinting, and the micro-puncture lab.

• RockBox Fitness SouthPark: The boxing studio spanning 3,137 square feet features group and full-body workouts.

Hazel SouthPark offers townhomes, flats, and walkup-style homes with units ranging from 586 to 2,718 square feet, along with 9,400 square feet of amenities and an attached parking garage.

On the web: www.hazelSouthParkcharlottenc.com.

CHARLOTTE – Allen Tate Insurance has named Indian Trail resident Andrew Matlock as growth and business analysis manager.

Matlock will recruit and train insurance agents and service staff; review agency processes; make recommendations for risk mitigation; and implement procedures to improve communication and inMatlock surance operations.

Matlock has more than 11 years of experience in insurance and risk management and has held positions as risk management advisor, branch claims representative, field claims representative, commercial underwriter and claims manager.

“Andrew brings exceptional people and analytical skills,” said Robin Price, president, Allen Tate Insurance. “He has a strong understanding of the insurance industry and best practices for growing our business and delivering improved service to Allen Tate customers. Our insurance agents, staff and clients will all benefit from Andrew’s expertise.”

RALEIGH – Attorney General Josh Stein encouraged North Carolinians to report price gouging related to the coronavirus pandemic to the N.C. Department of Justice.

Report potential price gouging by filing a complaint at https://ncdoj.gov/gouging or by calling 1-877-5-NO-SCAM. In particular, the attorney general’s office has heard anecdotally that there may be price gouging occurring on at-home COVID tests.

Since 2018, Stein has brought 11 lawsuits against 27 defendants under North Carolina’s price gouging statute. He has obtained 10 judgments against 19 defendants. DOJ has won more than $995,000 in these judgments and settlements.

Samaritan’s Purse hiring for January and February CHARLOTTE – Samaritan’s Purse is hiring 100-plus customer service and warehouse associates who are flexible and able to function well in a fast-paced environment.

This includes station coaches, re-packers, preppers, shoebox folders, inventory stockers and cardboard disposers.

This seasonal employment will span Tuesdays through Saturdays from Jan. 17 to the end of February at the Charlotte Processing Center, 7100 Forest Point Blvd. Pay is $15 per hour.

Visit www.samaritanspurse.org for details.

Fifth Third Bank opens Myers Park location CHARLOTTE – Fifth Third Bank held a ribbon-cutting Dec. 9 to celebrate the opening of its Myers Park location at 915 Providence Road.

The branch incorporates a “Next Gen” design focusing on an open environment equipped with the latest technology aimed at delivering personal customer service.

In November, Fifth Third Bank, National Association opened this new banking center in Charlotte, located at 915 Providence Road. A Blakeney branch was scheduled to open in late December.

Dickens Mitchener welcomes Grier to leadership team CHARLOTTE – Vicky Mitchener, owner of Dickens Mitchener Residential Real Estate, announced that its leadership team has appointed Aubrey Grier as vice president of public relations as well as joining the leadership team.

Grier has been a broker at Dickens Mitchener for over 15 years.

“We just celebrated our 30th anniversary and are excited for renewed leadership to successfully implement our strategy and take advantage of the market opportunities ahead," Mitchener said. "Grier is connected to the community of Charlotte and has consistently been a top producer within the company. She is a strong communicator who is customer-focused with deep leadership capabilities.”

The Dickens Mitchener team is comprised of more than 110 real estate professionals.

Rack Room Shoes makes $100,000K for tornado relief CHARLOTTE – Rack Room Shoes has donated $100,000 to the American Red Cross to help those affected by the recent tornadoes and storms across the South and Midwest.

“Helping others in the communities we serve, is the primary goal of Rack Room Shoes Gives, as social responsibility is one of our most important company values,” Rack Room Shoes CEO Mark Lardie said.

Tiff’s Treats offers monthly delivery subscription club AUSTIN, TEXAS – Tiff’s Treats, the on-demand cookie delivery brand, is offering cookie fans a new monthly subscription club with the option of 3, 6 or 12 months of warm cookie deliveries.

Tiff’s Treats’ Blue Ribbon Club members will receive a box of one or two dozen cookies each month featuring a surprise flavor-of-themonth in half of the box and the famous “Tiff’s Mix” assortment, or another flavor of the recipient’s choosing, in the other half. At the beginning of each month, Tiff’s Treats will contact Blue Ribbon Club members to schedule their preferred delivery date and time.

To become a Blue Ribbon Club™ member or gift a subscription to a cookie lover, visit www.cookiedelivery.com.

Spectrum to award $2,500 to Latin American Coalition CHARLOTTE – Spectrum announced a donation of $2,500 to Latin American Coalition, as part of the company’s national community philanthropic program, Spectrum Employee Community Grants.

Latin American Coalition is a community of Latin Americans, immigrants and allies that promotes full and equal participation of all people in the civic, economic and cultural life of North Carolina through education, celebration and advocacy. Funding provided by Spectrum will allow the coalition to expand its services and cater to the needs of clients.

Spectrum Employee Community Grants has provided funding to more than 290 nonprofits in 31 states throughout the company’s service area since its inception in July 2019.

Page 4A • The Weekly • Jan. 14, 2022

Grants to support Court rules North Carolina's new health equity in redistricting maps are constitutional Charlotte region

by Nyamekye Daniel Contributor

CHARLOTTE – The American Heart Association and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina announced five community health mini-grant awards, totaling $30,000 in the Charlotte region.

These mini-grants focus on nutrition security, blood pressure management and access to healthy foods and equitable care.

The mini-grants will impact under-resourced communities, priority zip codes and individuals living with high blood pressure and lack of access to nutrition.

Seventeen community health mini-grants were awarded in North Carolina, totaling nearly $100,000.

These community organizations and companies will be working to improve heart health among North Carolinians who are most at risk for cardiovascular diseases and stroke.

“It is very exciting to continue our efforts with Blue Cross NC to address health equity issues in our communities and to offer community mini-grants to bolster existing programs or inspire new programs to bloom,” said Shannon Emmanuel, vice president of health strategies for the American Heart Association, Charlotte. “Together we are working to build sustainable change to improve the health of our communities.”

“Blue Cross NC is committed to improving the health and well-being of all North Carolinians, especially members of commu-

nities in under-resourced areas,” said Cheryl Parquet, director of community engagement and marketing activation at Blue Cross NC. “We’re proud to work with partners to lead the charge in creating a healthier state and support organizations dedicated to advancing health equity.”

Community health minigrant Charlotte awardees include: • The Heights Community Development Center: Generational health in the community, food security and hypertension management • Care Ring: Heart Health Initiative, hypertension management • Wingate University: Promoting heart health and addressing food insecurity in rural eastern Union County, additional farmers market • Grier Heights Presbyterian Church: Grier Heights Fresh Food Express, food security • Uptown Farmers Market: Shuttle Service for older adults from affordable housing communities, transportation and food security This is the third round of community health minigrants awarded through the American Heart Association and Blue Cross NC initiative with 48 community health mini-grants awarded for nearly $200,000 since 2020.

Community partners in Mecklenburg, Gaston and Union counties were encouraged to apply.

(The Center Square) – A three-judge panel ruled Tuesday to uphold the North Carolina General Assembly’s new redistricting maps.

The Wake County Circuit Court judges dismissed a case by voting advocates who challenged the maps’ constitutionality. They claimed the Republican-led General Assembly drew the maps to maintain a partisan advantage.

The court ruled that the maps were not gerrymandered and could be used for the midterm elections in November.

“Despite our disdain for having to deal with issues that potentially lead to results incompatible with democratic principles and subject our State to ridicule, this Court must remind itself that

these maps are the result of a democratic process,” the judicial panel wrote.

The Legislature must reconstruct district maps every 10 years, corresponding with the release of U.S. census data. The 2020 census showed the state’s population grew by more than 888,000 residents. Lawmakers had to add a congressional district because of the population growth. The Legislature approved the maps in November with strong opposition from Democrats.

The plaintiffs said Republican map drawers constructed the maps behind closed doors. The court case revealed key Republicans destroyed a map that was to remain part of public record according to law.

“They are set up to steal seats through illegal partisan gerrymandering and are choosing to proceed with costly litiga-

tion that hardworking taxpayers will pay for,” Meredith Cuomo, executive director for North Carolina Democratic Party, said in a statement Tuesday.

North Carolina House Speaker Tim Moore, R-Cleveland, said he was pleased with the outcome of the case and believed lawmakers conducted an honest redistricting process.

“Free and fair elections are the result of an open and honest process. The General Assembly’s maps were drawn in the light of day, after months of public comment and feedback,” Moore said. “Unfortunately, Democrat plaintiffs refuse to hold themselves to this standard. Their own proposed maps were drawn in secret, implementing feedback not from voters themselves, but from political consultants paid for

by Eric Holder.”

Weather aids city in affordability rankings

by Nyamekye Daniel Contributor

The Center Square (The Center Square) – Three North Carolina cities are among the top five most-affordable places in the U.S. to live with good weather, according to real estate data provider PropertyShark.

U.S. cities with more than 150,000 residents were analyzed by PropertyShark for their cost of housing and the weather.

Charlotte and Raleigh were the two best choices for homebuyers looking for affordable housing and year-round mild weather, according to PropertyShark.

Greensboro also made the top five.

“Both Charlotte and Raleigh are among the fastest-growing large cities in the nation, and their cli-

mates and affordability play pivotal roles in their popularity,” PropertyShark said.

PropertyShark selected the top 20 cities where homeowners earning a median income would spend no more than 30% of their earnings on monthly housing payments. It then looked at how many days per year are clear, how many days reach extreme temperatures and how rainy and windy the cities are.

Charlotte was selected as the No.1 most affordable city to live in with good weather.

Charlotte’s Housing Affordability Index in the report was 29%, which means residents need to budget 29% of their earnings for a mortgage. The median income in Charlotte is $62,817, while the median home sale price is $298,296.

PropertyShark said the Housing Affordability Index was

calculated by considering the median income percentage required for monthly mortgage payments on a home purchased at each city’s median sale price point.

Raleigh was second on PropertyShark’s list, but homeowners only need to set aside 21% of their income to cover a mortgage. Analysts said Raleigh was a more economical option compared with Charlotte. Raleigh’s median income is $67,266 and a median home sale price of $230,250, PropertyShark found.

Charlotte has slightly better weather than Raleigh.

Charlotte had an average of 63 days a year of temperatures falling below 32 degrees, while 46 days were above 90 degrees. The city had an average of 109 clear days.

Raleigh had an average of

73 days a year of the temperatures falling below 32 degrees, while 44 days were above 90 degrees. It had 111 clear days.

In comparison, of the most-affordable cities with good weather, according to PropertyShark, Springfield, Missouri, had an average of 100 days a year that were below 32 degrees.

In contrast, San Antonio was the hottest, with 110 days above 90 degrees.

PropertyShark ranked Greensboro fifth. It has a Housing Affordability Index of 23%.

Greensboro has more rainfall on average than Raleigh and Charlotte but still had more than 100 clear days.

Greensboro had an average of 81 days a year of temperatures falling below 32 degrees, while 34 days were above 90 degrees.

The Weekly • Jan. 14, 2022 • Page 5A

Sligh, Falcon, Monde earn annual MLK Awards WINGATE – Wingate University’s MLK Awards – given annually to a student, a staff member and a faculty member who are living out the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King – will be presented to Taylor Sligh, Marta Falcon and Geniece Crawford Monde during a virtual Jan. 19 recognition event.

Taylor Sligh

A senior from Greenville, South Carolina, Sligh earned three nominations for the award.

“Taylor Sligh is dedicated to serving and uplifting her campus community and the greater Wingate area,” wrote student Taylor Patterson in her nomination.

Vice president of the Tau Chi Chapter of the Sigma Gamma Rho sorority at Wingate, Sligh plays an integral role in programming efforts designed to unite students across campus. She also serves as the sorority’s regional youth-services coordinator and is the highest-ranking undergraduate member of the organization’s Northeastern Region, which stretches from Bermuda to Canada.

A communication major with a penchant for organizing and collaborating, Sligh was concerned that the rise in racial strife and the pandemic-induced isolation that marked 2020 were making it difficult for students to connect and empathize with one another. To make it easier, she planned We Are Wingate, a weeklong celebration of diversity developed with input from more than a dozen organizations across campus and held in early November. To pay for it, Sligh wrote a $7,210 grant proposal, the largest student-proposed grant to have ever been funded by Wingate’s Board of Visitors.

“Taylor went out of her way to apply for grant funding,” wrote Amanda Alling, assistant director of campus involvement in her nomination of Sligh. “She is a student who perseveres and is more than deserving of this recognition.”

Nancy Randall, vice president for institutional integrity and Title IX coordinator, also nominated Sligh for the MLK Award. She noted that Sligh recently organized a regional program for Sigma Gamma Rho that focused on social justice, specifically Title IX, and is collaborating with Randall and others on programming for a dating-violence and sexual-assault awareness and prevention week that will address issues affecting underrepresented populations, including persons of color, the LGBTQ community, women, and others.

Marta Falcon

Falcon, assistant director of Wingate’s Academic Resource Center, was nominated by Kristin Wharton, the ARC’s executive director.

“Marta embodies the ideals of Dr. King

SCHOOL (continued from page 1A)

nis team for Marvin Ridge with another state championship.

Moving into the winter season, we have a significant amount of teams that are poised for excellence at the state level. Currently, Weddington boys basketball is 14-0. They are ranked No. 2 in the state in all classifications and No. 1 in the Observer’s Sweet 16 poll.

The Marvin Ridge men’s and women’s swim teams won the Southern Carolina Conference titles and should be a very strong contender at the state level.

Women’s basketball is heating up. Big

in every aspect of her work. She consistently takes on extra tasks because folks on-campus see her passion for equity and diversity,” Wharton wrote. “Being bilingual, she is asked almost weekly to use her language skills to ensure access across campus. In her position, she supports students with disabilities so that they are able to demonstrate their learning. She always works with ARC facilitators to ensure that every student who comes into the ARC feels respected and valued.”

In her spare time, Falcon works with the First-Gen Bulldog Program, the Latinx and Muslim student associations and the Bias Action Team. She has worked for the University for just over four years.

Geniece Crawford Monde

Monde, assistant professor of sociology and department chair, upholds Dr. King’s legacy through her research, teaching and support of Wingate students, especially students of color, according to fellow faculty member Dr. Christy Cobb.

“This year, Dr. Monde was awarded a sabbatical to complete a book manuscript on formerly incarcerated mothers in order to recast their experiences,” Cobb wrote in her nomination. “This book, when published, will be one of the first to focus on the experiences of women who were incarcerated. Like Dr. King, Dr. Monde’s research brings to light marginalization and inequity in the U.S. prison systems. Dr. Monde exemplifies the importance of black faculty at an institution like Wingate and is deserving of recognition for her mentorship, leadership, and academic research.”

Monde has been a member of the Wingate faculty for eight and a half years.

“I believe it is important to continue to recognize our faculty, staff and students who make a conscientious effort to advance the diversity, equity and inclusion efforts at the university,” said Antonio Jefferson, Wingate’s assistant vice president for DEI. “Whether in the classroom, making an appointment at the ARC or collaborating on a student organization program, these efforts make a tremendous difference in ensuring that all students and employees feel a sense of belonging and welcome on campus.”

The event will be a virtual event and is set for 7 p.m. Jan. 19. It will be the third year the University has handed out MLK awards and the first time that the event will include a senior keynote speaker. Iyanna Salters, a human services major, will reflect on her experiences at Wingate and how they connect to Dr. King’s dream. The MLK event is open to the public. Email a.jefferson@wingate.edu to request the Youtube link. shout-out to Marvin Ridge, Forest Hills and Parkwood who are all off to tremendous starts and finally CATA and Parkwood have been dominant to this point in the season and they will take on each other for the wrestling Rocky River Conference title this week.

Good luck to all of our winter athletes and in our soon-to-be spring athletes.

Finally, I want to give a big shout-out to a group of employees who make a huge difference to our children, to our teachers to our staff each and every day. Those are our instructional assistants.

They are a huge part of our district's success, and I want each of them to know how much that we value and appreciate them.

Thank you for your expertise, for your dedication and for your support.

Coach Rick Johnston strives to give players a good experience. Photo courtesy of MARA

MARA (continued from page 1A)

many barriers as possible to the program. Registration is free with equipment provided thanks to support from sponsors like Land O’ Frost, Elevation Church, Publix and Cotton Gin Printing and Graphics in

HOMES (continued from page 1A)

said. “We are excited to introduce our style of estate and custom homes befitting of these incredible locations and their residents to enjoy for years to come.”

Weddington Glen estate homes will be priced in the $900,000s with custom homes $1.2 million-plus. A mix of wooded and meadow homesites will be found throughout the community. Beechwood closed on the 48-acre property on Dec. 13, 2021. Site development is expected to begin early 2022 and home construction in spring 2022.

Located on Waxhaw-Marvin Road in the heart of Marvin, Broadmoor at Marvin will feature homes priced from $1 million to $1.5 million. Beechwood said this

Matthews.

Volunteers are also important to the program.

Players are paired with buddies that help them practice and provide support.

“I am proud of our volunteer teenagers who showed up each week to help be a part of something bigger than themselves,”

“

said Monique Brooks, sponsorship and marketing director for MARA. “Their dedication and unselfishness was fantastic.”

MARA has opened baseball and softball registration for the spring, including Bambino Buddy-Ball.

Visit www.marasports.org for details.

Our vision at Beechwood is to tailor our signature quality of home styles with local lifestyles.

86-acre community will consist of well-appointed homes with innovative design and the latest smart home features. Beechwood closed on this property on Dec. 15, 2021. Site development and home sales are expected to begin in spring 2022.

A third community is Ferncliff at Cotswold, named for its location at the intersection of Providence Road and Ferncliff Road.

Beechwood will build five townhomes priced from $750,000 to $1.2 million.

This community is expected to break ground in mid2022.

• Steven Dubb Principle “Our vision at Beechwood is to tailor our signature quality of home styles with local lifestyles,” Principle Steven Dubb said.

“Whether residents are first-time buyers of a family home or moving up to a luxury estate, empty-nesters looking to ‘rightsize’ or urban dwellers who value easy access to transportation and services, we want them to have the style and functionality of home they need to enjoy everyday life in the villages, towns and cities where they want to live.”

On the web: www.beechwoodcarolinas.com

www.unioncountyweekly.com

Community The Weekly • Jan. 14, 2022 • Page 1B

Charlotte Symphony launches ensemble

Hunger Walk The Hunger Walk is one of Common Heart’s most popular events of the year. Photos courtesy of Common Heart

Common Heart fundraiser can be done in-person or virtually INDIAN TRAIL – Common Heart received a Facebook message recently from someone who had “fallen on hard times” and wanted to know how to get groceries from the Thursday evening pantry at Union United Methodist Church in Waxhaw.

She has driven by the church many times, often on Thursdays when a line of cars moves through the parking lot to get free groceries. Her family needed food but she wondered if she qualified. She’d never been to a food pantry before but like so many of her neighbors – especially during the pandemic – needed help.

Common Heart says the community can help such neighbors by participating in its fifth annual Hunger Walk.

The fundraiser will be available in-person at Crooked Creek Park in Indian Trail or virtual, meaning participants can join in from wherever they’d like anytime on March 6.

Registration costs $25 for adults and $15 for children ages 12 and younger and includes a T-shirt. Participants are encouraged to collect donations from family and friends to help in the effort to feed hungry families. Get all the details and register at CommonHeartHungerWalk.org.

“We can’t wait to gather together – both in-person and online. No matter which way you choose to participate this year, you can still take steps to end local hunger,” Executive Director Keith Adams said. “The

Book explains how to find love Common Heart allows participants to bond over doing something good for the community.

Common Heart Hunger Walk is a great chance to join in solidarity raising awareness about hunger in our community and raising funds to support our food pantry programs. Our hungry neighbors rely on food pantries like Common Heart now more than ever in our 16-year history.”

Common Heart food pantries have seen a dramatic increase in the number of families seeking help since 2020.

In 2021, Common Heart provided a week’s worth of groceries to 10,861 indi-

viduals an average of 12 times, or about once a month. The number of total individuals served between 2020 and 2021 went down by almost 7,000 people, but the frequency of families getting groceries more than tripled.

A donation of just $25 to Common Heart provides a week’s worth of groceries for one local family in need. Sponsorships are also available. Email Kristina.Aquilone@CommonHeart.org or call 704-2189060 ext. 1007 for more information

Help plan the Union County Heritage Festival MONROE – The Union County Heritage Festival is seeking volunteers to serve on its planning committee.

The committee welcomes volunteers from all sectors of the community.

Members get a behind-thescenes look at planning and executing the event, the opportunity to develop new skills and the chance to give back. They provide input and work on various parts of the event, including vendors, marketing, entertainment, sponsors, volunteers, contests, decorations and the Wild Turkey 5K. Planning meetings are held on the second Friday of each month

CHARLOTTE – The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra will launch a new youth ensemble, serving musicians around the ages of 8 to 16, starting in February 2022 at First Baptist Church-West.

Led by Eric Thompson, the Charlotte Symphony Youth Ensemble will introduce young musicians to the experience of performing within an ensemble while receiving personalized training from orchestra staff and musicians at each rehearsal. The ensemble will build out the Charlotte Symphony Youth Orchestra program which includes the youth philharmonic for intermediate musicians and the youth orchestra for advanced level musicians.

It also provides an opportunity for further learning from students who begin in Project Harmony, a free after-school music program, in partnership with Arts+, that serves families who face challenges and seek to provide greater opportunities for their children.

“We know that music can be a powerful tool, both for social transformation and in education – developing in students a life-long love of music, as well as skills that build character, selfconfidence and teamwork.” Charlotte Symphony President and CEO David Fisk said. “We are proud to be able to offer this experience to young musicians as part of the Charlotte Symphony’s mission and I truly believe that with great partners, like Eric Thompson and First Baptist ChurchWest, the symphony can play a unique and integral role in encouraging the next generation of orchestral musicians and enthusiasts.”

The ensemble is open to any student who wishes to participate — no audition is required. The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra offers a sliding scale for youth orchestra tuition, so financial status will never be a barrier.

leading up to the Sept. 17 event between 10 a.m. and noon via Zoom or at the Union County Agricultural Center. The first meeting of 2022 is scheduled for Jan. 14 via Zoom. Email Tina Sagartz at cgsagartz@carolina.rr.com to be added to the invitations.

The Heritage Festival includes a vendor fair, art and craft exhibitors, live entertainment, kids’ art and science activities, raffle prizes, food trucks, games, free talks and cooking demonstrations.

The Wild Turkey 5K Trail Run/Walk kicks off the day’s festivities at 8 a.m. The Heritage Festival follows from 9 a.m. to 4

Volunteers are crucial to running the Union County Heritage Festival. Photo courtesy of the Union County Heritage Festival.

p.m. at the Union County Agricultural and Conference Center.

Events are held annually and hosted by the Union Coun-

ty Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Association. On the web: www.unioncountyheritage festival.org.

CHARLOTTE – Jameliah Gooden has released her second book, “A Needle in a Haystack: How to Find Love in the Rubble,” through Warren Publishing. The release serves as a guide for finding and recognizing love.

Gooden hopes “A Needle in a Haystack” will help people find their perfect mates and form real and lasting partnerships. She encourages readers to break away from the enormous pressures of modern dating and to find playfulness in their social lives.

“We should be putting ourselves out there and just having fun,” Gooden said. “There should be no forced end goal or expectation.

That’s how you find your needle.”

Personal struggles with identity and failed relationships can be difficult topics, but Gooden faces these obstacles with candor and transparency. She knows from personal experience how a bad relationship can hinder people from going forward and trying again. But after finding her perfect “needle,” she wants to share that joy with others. Gooden hopes her book will help all readers find the truth themselves and experience the healing that self-actualization can offer.

“People have dating all wrong,” Gooden said. “It should be fun, not something to fear.

Just relax and be yourself. Call it ‘fellowshipping,’ because when you set expectations, you can end up hiding the truth to conform to what you think it is someone else wants.”

Gooden and her husband, Fred, are pastors at Unity Church of Charlotte. Mondays at 7 p.m., you can find the Goodens together on Facebook for their Coupling series, where they discuss maintaining healthy relationships. She is also the host of “Car Chronicles Movement,” a Facebook Live show presented every morning at 7:30 a.m. (carchronicles.org).

Page 2B • The Weekly • Jan. 14, 2022

Books available through Imagination Library CHARLOTTE – Since expanding to Mecklenburg County in 2017, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library delivers free, age-appropriate books to over 27,000 local children each month.

Parton developed the program so that every preschool child in her home of Sevier County, Tennessee, would have their library of books to encourage reading and

learning. The program’s success led to interest across the country, prompting her to offer her Imagination Library for replication in any community that would support it.

Smart Start of Mecklenburg County began the initial rollout of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in Charlotte in 2015, distributing books to newborns within zip code

28205.

By the fall of that same year, in partnership with Carolinas Medical Center (Atrium Health) and Novant Health, birth registrars began enrolling newborns living in zip codes 28205, 28206 and 28208.

With the help of Read Charlotte and data pulled from the National Assessment of Education Progress, Smart Start of Mecklenburg Coun-

ty mapped out a plan to target families residing in “the crescent,” Charlotte’s 12 most vulnerable zip codes.

Over the next few years, additional zip codes bolstered their service area as funding allowed, focusing on book deserts in Charlotte.

In 2017, state legislation provided funding to expand the program countywide.

Now every child from birth to 5 years old in Mecklenburg County has the opportunity to participate in the program.

The Dolly Parton Imagination Library is a voluntary program. Parents can sign up to receive a new book each month through the Imagination Library at no cost.

On the web: https://smartstart ofmeck.org/dpil/

CALENDAR Jan. 14

Winter Concert Mac Arnold & Plate Full O’ Blues performs at the next Cool Vibes Winter Concert Series event at Matthews Community Center. Tickets cost $15 in advance and $18 at the door. Find tickets on www.eventbrite.com.

6-9:30 p.m.; 100 McDowell St., Matthews Comedy Tour Tom Segura brings his “I’m Coming Everywhere” world tour to The Boxplex. Buy tickets at www.ticketmaster.com.

7 p.m.; 2700 E. Independence Blvd., Charlotte

Jan. 15

Litter Clean-Up Stevens Creek Nature Center holds a litter clean-up for ages 10 and older. Register in advance. www.facebook. com/NatureCenters 9 a.m.-noon; 15700 Thompson Road, Mint Hill Saturday Storytime The Union West Regional Library presents a Saturday Storytime for ages 2 to 5 p.m. Registration is required at www.unioncountync.gov.

9:30-10 a.m.; 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe Reptiles 101 Jay Bell, founder of Reptiles 101, talks about reptiles at Backyard Birds. www.thebirdfoodstore.com/ 11 am.-1 p.m.; 1819 Matthews Township Pkwy., Matthews

Jan. 16

MLK Celebration The sixth annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration starts with a march from Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church to Matthews Town Hall. www.matthewsnc.gov 2:30-4 p.m.; 381 Crestdale Lane, Matthews

Jan. 17 The Greater Charlotte Home and Landscape Show showcases trends, products and services in home improvement, décor, entertainment systems, storage solutions, gardening, landscaping, outdoor living, pools and spas. Photos courtesy of Yellow Duck Marketing

Looking for inspiration?

Greater Charlotte Home & Landscape Show returns in January CONCORD – The 17th annual Greater Charlotte Home and Landscape Show will return to the Cabarrus Arena and Events Center in Concord from Jan. 28 to 30 with the latest trends, products and services.

Guests will be able to stroll through a variety of garden and landscape displays created by local landscapers, shop for unique gifts and home accessories, sample a variety of local wines at Winery Row, receive advice from home improvement experts in a variety of areas, and shop for home décor, foods and sauces at The Marketplace.

Guests can meet one-one-one with local interior designer Anna Stowe to get value tips and learn new trends. Consultations can be scheduled here. Stowe will also give presentations throughout the show.

At the Main Stage, guests will hear from LaToya Faustin of She Built This City.

Learn how the nonprofit empowers women of all ages in construction and manufacturing trades.

Show hours will be from 2 to 7 p.m. Jan. 28, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Jan. 29 and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Jan. 30. On-site parking is free.

Concessions will be available.

Tickets for adults cost $9 at the door

MLK Celebration The City of Monroe invites the community to its Dr. Martin Luther King Celebration at the J. Ray Shute Center. www.monroenc.org Noon-2 p.m.; 506 E Green St, Monroe

Book Club The Union West Regional Library’s Evening Book Club discusses Kristin Hannah’s “The Four Winds.” Registration is required at www.unioncountync.gov.

5:30-6:30 p.m.; 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail Land Planning The Town of Mint Hill holds a third public forum on the Comprehensive Land Use Plan at town hall. Offer feedback on the comprehensive plan. https://publicinput.com/minthillplan 6-8 p.m.; 4430 Mint Hill Village Lane, Mint Hill Book Club The Downtown Matthews Book Club discusses Barbara Natterson-Horrowitz’s “Wildhood: The Astounding Connections Between Human and Animal Adolescents” at The Loyalist Market.

7 p.m.; 435 N. Trade St., Matthews Pub Trivia Cappitoff Entertainment hosts Tuesday night trivia at Small Bar Matthews. www.cappitoffentertainment.com 7-9 p.m.; 4320 Potters Road, Matthews

Jan. 19 One of the advantages of going to such trade shows is that you get the opportunity to chat with vendors and other consultants.

and $7 online. Tickets for children 12 and younger are free. On Jan. 28, adults 60 and older will receive free admission. Jan. 30 is Hero Day with all active and retired

military, fire and police personnel receiving free admission with valid identification.

Visit www.charlottehomeandlandscapeshow.com for details.

The South Carolina wine bar concept has signed to take 1,400 square feet in the center, located at 887 Gold Hill Road at the intersection of Gold Hill and Pleasant roads in Fort Mill. This will be The Social Cork’s first location.

This also marks the third retail tenant to sign on in the newly developed shops building at Gold Hill Crossing. TWF Burgers is under construction now on its space in the

building. Saltwater Markets, located directly next to The Social Cork Wine Bar, has been open since the beginning of September.

“We are incredibly excited to bring an elegant yet casual wine bar concept to Gold Hill Crossing,” said Robbie Adams of MPV. “We believe the concept will complement Saltwater Markets and TWF Burgers, as well as bringing more options to the surrounding communities.”

Girls Scouts ready to sell cookies CHARLOTTE – Girl Scouts Hornets’ Nest Council has launched the 2022 Girl Scout Cookie season, the time of year when Girl Scouts in the greater Charlotte area become entrepreneurs to power their own leadership opportunities.

The organization announced a new cookie, the Advetureful, an indulgent brownie-inspired cookie with caramel-flavored crème and a hint of sea salt. The newest cookie to join the likes of Samoas and Thin Mints was inspired by the adventures girls experience through the program.

“Through our cookie program, our Girl Scouts are acquiring life and business les-

Morning Mahjong The Town of Indian Trail invites adults 55 and older for Monday Morning Mahjong at Indian Trail Town Hall. Register in advance at www.indiantrail.org.

9:30-11:30 a.m.; 315 Matthews-Indian Trail Road Indian Trail

Jan. 18

Social Cork Wine Bar coming soon to Fort Mill

FORT MILL – The Social Cork Wine Bar plans to open in spring 2022 within Gold Hill Crossing, according to MPV Properties.

The Social Cork Wine Bar will combine some of the best artisanal wines from around the world with local favorites in an upscale environment. It is designed as a destination for people looking to enjoy wine, flights and small bites.

MLK Day The Harvey B. Gantt Center for African American Arts + Culture hosts a full day of programming commemorating Martin Luther King Jr.’s impact on society. Register in advance at www.eventbrite.com.

9 a.m.-5 p.m.; 551 S. Tryon St., Charlotte

Community Yoga The Town of Indian Trail offers a community yoga class on Wednesdays at Indian Trail Town Hall. Classes cost $5.

Register in advance at www.indiantrail.org.

7:30-8:30 a.m.; 315 Matthews-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail Coffee & Cards The Town of Indian Trail invites adults 55 and older to Coffee, Cards and Conversation on Wednesdays at town hall. Register in advance at www.indiantrail.org.

9:45 a.m.-noon; 315 Matthews-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail

Jan. 20

Book Club The Final Draft Book Club discusses Naomi Novik’s “A Deadly Education” at Southern Range Brewing. Registration is required at www.unioncountync.gov.

6-7 p.m.; 151 S. Stewart St, Monroe Friends Trivia ClTrivia holds a themed trivia night around the popular TV show “Friends” at Red Clay Ciderworks.

7-9 p.m.; 245 Clanton Road, Charlotte

Jan. 21

Game Night The Town of Pineville leads Disney trivia during Family Game Night at Belle Johnston Community Center. Register

by Jan. 14 by calling 704-889-2400.

6:30-8 p.m.; 1000 Johnston Drive, Pineville Night at Museum Night at the Alphabet Museum brings the museum to life. Admission is free, but registration is required at www. signupgenius.com.

6:45-8 p.m.; 6403 Davis Road, Waxhaw

Jan. 22

Honey Bees The Lois Morgan Edwards Memorial Library presents Keeping Honey Bees for Beginners. Register in advance at www.unioncountync.gov.

10-11 a.m.; 414 Hasty St., Marshville Yoga for Teens Union West Regional Library offers Yoga for Teens. Register in advance at www.unioncountync.gov.

11 a.m.-noon; 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail

sons that position them for success in the future,” said Tayuanee Dewberry, CEO of the Girl Scouts Hornets’ Nest Council.

“Each purchase literally powers adven-

tures and experiences that shape them into strong women who will lead our community and our country in the near future.”

On the web: www.hngirlscouts.org

Chili Cook-Off Queen City Sellers presents a chili cook-off at Carolina Beer Temple. The competition is open to 10 cookers who register by Jan. 19. www.facebook.com/CarolinaBeerTemple/ Noon-3 p.m.; 195 N. Trade St., Matthews

The Weekly • Jan. 14, 2022 • Page 3B

Fun One Radio adds second frequency

MONROE – Community radio station 99.1 The Fun One is now available on 94.3 FM in Union County.

President John Griffin announced the expansion Dec. 29 with a gathering of on-air volunteers surrounding him live on the air.

As a part of a produced announcement featuring the likes of retired broadcaster John Hancock; former Charlotte morning host

Chuck Boozer; Ken Knox, Monroe’s community radio of Chairmen of the Board); station.” and many others, Griffin Fun One Radio is on the announced the radio station air as WDZD-LP Monroe would now be known as, and operates at 99.1 and 94.3 “Fun One Radio.”

FM with coverage through“Having a second fre- out Monroe and around quency like 94.3 will allow the globe via thefunone.org, Fun One Radio to serve TuneIn and The Fun One and cover additional parts app. It is a two-time Carolina ofThe Union especially Beach Sales Music Corporation Awards, Radio NewCounty, York Times Syndication the western portion of the New Station the Year.

620 Eighth Avenue, York,ofN.Y. 10018 For Information Call: 1-800-972-3550 county,” Griffin said. “We’re Fun One Radio is a Release Monday, June 24, 2019 absolutelyFor thrilled to serve as non-profit, 501c3 organi-

Crossword ACROSS 1 Wide open, as the mouth 6 Treaties 11 “What ___ I say?”

14 “Whoa, ease up!”

15 Stan’s co-star in over 100 early film comedies 16 Made-up story 17 *Government’s credit limit 19 Hubbub 20 Like many infield grounders 21 Lester Holt and Anderson Cooper 23 Issa ___ of HBO’s “Insecure” 24 Smith or Scialfa of rock 27 Vienna’s home: Abbr.

28 *Beanbag juggled with the feet 32 Massage intensely

36 Put on a black coat?

58 Reproductive part of a flower 60 18+, e.g., in 37 Guarantee order to be able 38 Great Plains to vote tribe 61 *Much-visited 39 “Start the site in Jerusalem music!” … or 64 Sleuth, in slang what one could do to the finish 65 Bury, as ashes of the answer to 66 Girl Scout each starred clue cookie with a geographical 41 Vaping device, name informally 42 Full-time resident 67 Cry of fright of a college 68 Barely warm community 69 “E” on a gas 44 “___ you gauge through?”

45 Belles at balls, informally 46 *✓ 48 “The ___ & Stimpy Show” 49 Labor organizer Chávez 52 Resort with mineral waters 55 Like a gift from above

ANSWER TO PREVIOUS PUZZLE A C C E S S

H A N G M A N

F L A S H Y

C A S T O R

M A R R I A T I G E R E L I E S T C H O O S S M E S S A

A D B L E E T R A T V E R S H T E E A R D S E T

G R A T I N P O X S O L O

E N T I E R N C A K I B N O U S E N T R O O W P A N R E L M A M E P I A S N N E

C U S S E P E I C F I I T C A A T R I E O N

M O C C A S I N

A L L A L O N G

T E A M I N G

P E N P A L

O T E L L O

S O R E A T

DOWN 1 Intense devotion 2 Actress Davis of “The Accidental Tourist” 3 Edward who wrote “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?”

4 Trail 5 Onetime police officer 6 Dish made from taro root 7 None’s opposite 8 Medical facility 9 Fork prong 10 Motorized twowheelers 11 *Seafood topping that may be red or white 12 Assistant 13 Illuminating gas 18 Org. concerned with ecosystems 22 Figured (out) 25 Language in Bangkok

zation through Shaggers Incorporated. Fun One Radio depends on donations from listeners and local businesses for financial support.

“Because we’re a nonprofit radio station, we can focus our attention even more on serving the (Monroe and Union County) community while promoting other nonprofits and small businesses,” programming volunteer Greg Baucom said.

Edited by Will Shortz 1

2

3

4

5

6

14

7

8

10

11

18

24

25

34

35

27 29

36

38

30

40

43

41

44

46

31

37

39

42

22

26

28 33

13

19 21

23

12

16

20

45

47 48

55

9

15

17

32

No. 0520

49

56

50

57

51

58 62

52

53

54

59

60

61

63

64

65

66

67

68

69

26 Served raw, as steak

35 Practices épée, e.g.

53 Person in a cockpit

29 McKinnon of “S.N.L.”

36 Not us

54 Ease, as fears

30 Place for a baby to sleep

40 Ticks off 43 “No surprise to me!”

55 Concert proceeds

31 Beer barrels

47 Develops a glitch

32 Military program for coll. students

50 First full month of Major League Baseball, often: Abbr.

34 *Part of a ship just above the hold

Jan. 14 Amos’ Southend: Neil Jackson Band Evening Muse: Drayton Farley & Jonathan Peyton; Pip the Pansy Fillmore: Anderson East Jukebox Pub: Bradley Steele Milestone: Leaving for Arizona Southern Range: Act Two Stooges Pub: Hammer Down Trail House: Pluto for Planet Visulite: Courtney Lynn & Quinn

15 Saturday, Jan.Jan. 15 Amos’ Southend: Sidewinder DreamChaser’s: Curbside Prophet Evening Muse: Sam Fribush Trio Mac’s (Matthews): Jared Ackerman Milestone: Baroness Stooges Pub: Blonde Ambition Trail House: Living Temptation Underground: Sainted Jan. 16 Sunday, Jan. 16 Home Brew: Open Mic Milestone: Oberlin 17 Monday, Jan. Jan. 17 Evening Muse: Open Mic 18 Tuesday, Jan.Jan. 18 Evening Muse: Cory Branan

PUZZLE BY GARY CEE

33 “Alternatively …,” in texts

LOUD&LIVE

51 Get the suds out 52 Post office purchase

56 Double-curved molding 57 State bird of Hawaii 59 Did a backstroke, say 62 Prefix with state 63 Conclusion

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.

Jan. Wednesday, Jan. 19 19 Amos’ Southend: Nonpoint Pour 64: Music Bingo Milestone: Illusions of Grandeur Trail House: Rusty Pilot Acoustic Thursday, Jan.Jan. 20 20 Amos’ Southend: Indigo De Souza DreamChaser’s: Shannon Lee Middle James: Music Bingo Milestone: Zephyranthes Trail House: Music Bingo Visulite: Andy Cherry Friday, Jan. 21June 21 Amos’ Southend: Are You In? Courthouse Self-Pour: Dylan Ray Evening Muse: Natalie Carr Fillmore: Two Friends Hickory Tavern (Copper Way): Unknown Artist Jukebox Pub: Kris Atom Milestone: Abyssal Frost Southern Range: Jared Tugwell

Stooges Pub: Smokin’ Gunn Trail House: Bootleg Aces

22 Saturday, Jan.Jan. 22 Amos’ Southend: The Breakfast Club Evening Muse: Sam Burchfield & The Scoundrels; Salute the Soldier Hickory Ridge (Providence Road): Coconut Groove Mac’s (Matthews): Garrett & Micah Pineville Tavern: Living Temptation Southern Range: Rod Caillouet Steady Eddy’s: Caleb Wolfe Stooges Pub: Soakin’ Wet Stumptown Station: Seth & Sara The Milestone: Donnie Doolittle Visulite: James McMurtry Waxhaw Taphouse: Jammin T Band Venues Charlotte Amos’ Southend: 1423 S Tryon St. Evening Muse: 3227 N. Davidson St, Fillmore: 820 Hamilton St. Hickory Tavern:12210 Copper Way Hickory Ridge: 11504 Providence Road Milestone: 3400 Tuckaseegee Road Underground: 820 Hamilton St. Visulite: 1615 Elizabeth Ave. Indian Trail Trail House: 6751 Old Monroe Road Matthews Mac’s (Matthews): 142 E. John St. Steady Eddy’s: 2216 E. John St. Stumptown Station: 107 N. Trade St. Mint Hill Pour 64: 4410 Mint Hill Village Lane Stooges Pub: 13230 Albemarle Road Monroe Courthouse Self-Pour: 101 W. Franklin St. Home Brew: 215 S. Main St. Southern Range: 151 S. Stewart St. Pineville Middle James: 400 N. Polk St. Pineville Tavern: 314 N. Polk St. Waxhaw DreamChaser’s: 115 E. North Main St. Jukebox Pub: 5801 W. U.S. 74 Waxhaw Taphouse: 110 McDonald St.

Page 4B • The Weekly • Jan. 14, 2022

ONLINE EXTRA: Chef Sam Allen is rolling out a new feature at his restaurant, Wentworth & Fenn, called Biscuit Saturdays. Photo courtesy of Wentworth & Fenn

DINING SCORES Health departments in Mecklenburg and Union counties inspected the following restaurants Dec. 31 to Jan. 6: Charlotte (28209) •First Watch, 5821 Fairview Road – 96.5 • Five Guys Burgers And Fries, 2810 South Blvd. – 98.5 • Kabab 2 Go, 4200 South Blvd. – 96.5 • Seoul Poke Bowl, 3609 South Blvd. – 96 • The Steak N Hoagie Shop, 3401 South Blvd. – 95 • Viva Chicken, 4500 Park Road – 99

Spreading the culture Popular taproom concept expands to South End

CHARLOTTE – On the heels of celebrating the fourth anniversary of its original location in Plaza Midwood, Resident Culture Brewing Co. opened its second taproom in South End on Jan. 7.

“This space, the artwork, the decor, the lighting – it’s a fully immersive experience into the world of Resident Culture’s funky, weird brand personality while also honoring the space’s history,” co-owner Amanda McLamb said. “While the South End taproom will have a similar vibe to our flagship location, this space will take our brand to another level.”

Resident Culture Brewing Co. South End, 332 W. Bland St., is in a transformed 17,000-square-foot, two-story warehouse built in the 1920s that originally served as the city’s first bus maintenance facility. The space will feature tacos from chef Hector Gonzalez’s El Toro Bruto (formerly the pop-up Chilito), a gourmet coffee bar serving Mostra Coffee, a 1,000-square-foot outdoor patio, a DJ booth above the full bar, custom-made furniture from Mooresville-based Forged Timber Company and unexpected art and decor from staff artist Maryssa Pickett and others.

“We’ve always had a collaborative approach to our beer program, and now with in-house partners El Toro Bruto and Mostra Coffee, we’ll definitely be experimenting with brews that pair well with their flavors and will only be available at the South End taproom,” co-owner and head brewer Chris Tropeano said.

El Toro Bruto’s menu will feature All Day Tacos, starting at $3.50, served on a house-made corn or flour tortilla topped with onion, cilantro and a lime wedge with a choice of protein: carne asada, carnitas, lengua (beef tongue), barbacoa, al pastor, nopales (tender cactus, vegetarian).

Taco Bruto, starting at $6.50, features crispy griddled cheese on the inside of the tortilla with beans and protein.

Quesadillas start at $4, and nachos include house-made tortilla chips, refried beans and melted cheese fondue, guacamole, pico de gallo, sour cream and cheese starting at $12 with the option to add pro-

Charlotte (28226) • My Snak Shak, 7702 Pineville-Matthews Road – 99.5 • Panera Bread, 3207 Pineville-Matthews Road – 99 Charlotte (28227) • Deli Salvadorena, 7209 E. W.T. Harris Blvd. – 95 • Ichiban Buffet Sushi & Hibachi, 7201 Albemarle Road – 94 • Jakes Good Eats, 12721 Albemarle Road – 94.5 • Subway, 9044 Lawyers Road – 95.5 Charlotte (28270) • Bojangles, 1604 Galleria Blvd. – 98 • Chex Grill & Wings, 1609 Sardis Road N. – 99.5 • Pizza Hut, 9614 Monroe Road – 95.5 • Tony’s Pizza, 1605 Galleria Blvd. – 95 Charlotte (28277) • Adams Mart, 11924 Elm Lane – 96 • Chick-fil-A, 10001 Rea Road – 100 • First Watch, 6311 Providence Farm Lane – 93 • Five Guys Famous Burgers & Fries, 9820 Rea Road – 98.5 • Get Fit Foods, 14825 Ballantyne Village Way – 99 • Harris Teeter (pizza/cheese island), 15007 John J Delaney Drive – 100 • Harris Teeter (produce), 15007 John J. Delaney Drive – 99 Harris Teeter (Starbucks), 15007 John J Delaney Drive – 100 • Harris Teeter (deli/bakery), 9720 Rea Road – 96.5 • Harris Teeter (deli/Starbucks), 16625 Lancaster Hwy. – 97 • Harris Teeter (Starbucks), 7852 Rea Road – 98.5 • Publix (meat market), 11222 Providence Road W. – 100 • Publix (seafood), 11222 Providence Road W. – 100 • Starbucks Coffee, 11510 Waverly Center Drive – 100 • Target (Food Avenue/Starbucks) 9870 Rea Road – 100 Indian Trail • Food Lion (meat market), 5850 E. U.S. 74 – 100 • Food Lion (deli), 5850 E. U.S. 74 – 91.5 • Food Lion (produce) 5850 E. U.S. 74 – 100 • Mod Pizza, 6720 Old Monroe Road – 98.5 Matthews • Bojangles, 11137 E. Independence Blvd. – 93.5 Marshville • Food Lion (meat market), 7206 Marshville Blvd. – 99.5 • Food Lion (deli), 7206 Marshville Blvd. – 100 • Food Lion (produce), 7206 Marshville Blvd. – 98.5 • Polk Mountain Market, 5000 New Salem Road – 100 Mint Hill • Harris Teeter (deli), 7036 Brighton Park Drive – 98.5 • Harris Teeter (meat/seafood), 7036 Brighton Park Drive – 98

A look inside Resident Culture South End. Photo courtesy of Rachel Sutherland Communications

tein.

Breakfast tacos and scratch-made pastries will be added to the menu soon.

The coffee bar, which is slated to launch this spring, will exclusively feature Mostra Coffee, named the 2020 Roaster of the Year by “Roast Magazine.” This is the San Diego-based roaster’s first foray on the East Coast. Resident Culture South End will carry popular Mostra blends from light to medium to dark roasts, like the House Blend, which melds together the flavors of dark chocolate, sweet tobacco and earthy tones. Still undergoing final touches, the 6,800-square-foot event space on the lower level will include a 4,000-square-foot main

Authentic Mexican concept signs on as Lower Tuck’s first hospitality tenant CHARLOTTE – Lower Tuck, a newly completed adaptive reuse project, announced its first food and beverage tenant, “Maiz, Agua, Sal,” moving in summer 2022.

The concept, called MAS for short, is a new and authentic Mexican tortilleria from the team behind Craft Growler Shop and Lincoln Street Kitchen & Cocktails.

MAS will serve up freshly pressed tortillas, tacos, huevos rancheros, agua frescas and hand-crafted agave spirit-based cocktails. This new restaurant will take up 5,200 square feet of interior and exterior space with a rooftop patio looking out onto uptown’s skyline and hopes to open in seven to eight months time.

“We are creating an experience inspired by our travels to Mexico City to visit childhood friends, our amazing team who share our passion for freshly pressed corn tortillas and the response we’ve had to Lincoln Street’s huevos rancheros to bring true, vibrant Mexican flavor and cuisine with MAS,” owner Alyson Davis said. “We are really looking forward to expanding to a new area outside

Charlotte (28211) • Caring Hearts Of America Catering, 3500 Latrobe Drive – 98.5 • Chipotle Mexican Grill, 2921 Providence Road – 96.5 • The Dumpling Lady, 3500 Latrobe Drive – 98.5 • Publix (meat Market), 4425 Randolph Road – 99.5 • Publix (seafood), 4425 Randolph Road – 99.5 • Sandra Lee’s Country Kitchen, 3500 Latrobe Drive – 92 • Whats Up Dog, 3500 Latrobe Drive – 98.5

of South End and bringing Lower Tuck the freshest ingredients, authentic foods and the welcoming atmosphere and vibe we are known for creating.”

MAS is the first retail concept in the works to propel Lower Tuck as a neighborhood hotspot. Other announcements are imminent as the property continues to fill restaurant space.

“We’re excited to make Lower Tuck a foodie destination for Charlotte,” said Third & Urban’s Caleb Brenneman. “There is a growing community of retail and hospitality businesses in the district that we are eager to build upon, and we think MAS will be a great addition to the neighborhood.”

Third & Urban recently announced its first office tenants: Positec, Mason Interactive and Interior Elements.

The development company partners with Thrift CRES to secure top-tier retail tenants for Lower Tuck and JLL for office prospects.

Leasing information can be found at lowertuck.com.

room ideal for weddings and corporate events.

The Resident Culture team also plans to use it for events like a speaker series and intimate concerts. The event space is slated to open in spring 2022.

“The possibilities for events at this location are endless,” co-owner Phillip McLamb said. “After losing our event space in Plaza Midwood to make room for more production, it’s exciting to now have even more capabilities than we could have imagined. We’re excited for the main level, but guests are going to be blown away by the event spaces when they see them.”

Monroe • AJ Family Restaurant, 4829 Old Charlotte Hwy. – 97 • Bojangles, 555 E. Roosevelt Blvd. – 97.5 • Food Lion (deli), 100 E. Sunset Drive – 97 • Food Lion (produce), 100 E. Sunset Drive – 98.5 • Food Lion (deli), 250 N. Martin Luther King Blvd. – 97 • Sunny Food Express, 1800 Walk Up Ave. – 96 Pineville • BJ’s Wholesale Club (commissary/rotisserie), 11715 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 98.5 • Wholesale Club (deli and meat), 11715 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 99.5 • Fairfield Inn and Suites, 12228 Park Road – 97.5 • Food Lion (deli), 317 S. Polk St. – 98 • Food Lion (market), 317 S. Polk St. – 99.5 • Food Lion (produce), 317 S. Polk St. – 99 • Mean Mug Coffee Company, 11025 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 97.5 Waxhaw • Blue Door Deli And Market, 202 W. North Main St. – 97 • Food Lion (meat market), 1301 N. Broome St. – 99.5 • Food Lion (deli), 1301 N. Broome St. – 99.5 • Food Lion (produce) 1301 N. Broome St. – 100 • Terra Mare Market, 1526 Providence Road S. – 98.5 Wesley Chapel • Chick-fil-A, 6390 Weddington Road – 97

The Weekly • Jan. 14, 2022 • Page 5B

Wanting to run a classified ad? CALL 704-849-2261 Monday - Thursday. We accept credit cards.

Education & Instruction FALL REGISTRATION Sharon Baptist Church Weekday School, www. mysharon.org, 6411 Sharon Road, Charlotte, NC 28210 is now registering for their Fall 2021 Preschool Program.

Notice of Nondiscriminatory Policy: Sharon Baptist Church Weekday School admits students regardless of race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to the students at the school. The school does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in administrations of its educational policies, admissions policies, and other school-administered programs.

Help Wanted Software Architect for Dentsply Sirona in Charlotte, NC. Use your progress. exp defining comprehensive solutions; full life cycle exp; bus. analysis/redesign w/ architecture & implement.; req’d. analysis & concept., logical & detail. design skills; Adobe AEM; search tech. integrate w/content mgmt. incl. Google Search API & chordiant; design., implement., & support. enterprise level apps & Java, J2EE, C# & .NET, responsible for ecommerce platform architecture & solutions; define, design. & implement. industry best practices; advise leadership team on industry & tech. trends; & be expert for sourcing solution architecture info. & eCommerce platform integration. Bach’s in Computer Eng’g & 5 yrs. exp. req’d. Resume to Tiffany.

Brook@denstplysirona.com.

MISCELLANEOUS Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debrisblocking gutter protection.

Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 15% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-888-927-8649 SAVE BIG on HOME INSURANCE! Compare 20 A-rated insurances companies. Get a quote within minutes. Average savings of $444/year! Call 855-993-0514! (M-F 8am8pm Central) DISH Network. $59.99 for 190 Channels! Blazing Fast Internet, $19.99/mo. (where available.) Switch & Get a FREE $100 Visa Gift Card.

FREE Voice Remote. FREE HD DVR. FREE Streaming on ALL Devices. Call today!

1-855-419-7188 Donate your car, truck or van. Help veterans find jobs or start a business. Call Patriotic Hearts Foundation.

Fast, FREE pick-up. Max tax-deduction. Operators are standing by!

Call 1-844-982-2392 Become a published author!

Publications sold at all major secular & specialty Christian bookstores. CALL Christian Faith Publishing for your FREE author submission kit.

1-877-484-4025 HughesNet Satellite Internet - 25mbps starting at $49.99/mo! Get More Data FREE Off-Peak Data.

FAST download speeds.

WiFi built in! FREE Standard Installation for lease customers! Limited Time, Call 1-855-942-3256 DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait!

Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all

the details! 1-866-694-6148 www.dental50plus.com/ southern #6258 GENERAC Standby Generators. The weather is increasingly unpredictable.

Be prepared for power outages. FREE 7-year extended warranty ($695 value!) Schedule your FREE in-home assessment today.

Call 1-833-953-0224 Special financing for qualified customers.

SERIOUSLY INJURED in an AUTO ACCIDENT? Let us fight for you! Our network has recovered millions for clients! Call today for a FREE consultation! 1-888-409-1261 Guaranteed Life Insurance!

(Ages 50 to 80). No medical exam. Affordable premiums never increase. Benefits never decrease. Policy will only be canceled for nonpayment. 1-866-915-2530 VIAGRA & CIALIS! 60 pills for $99. 100 pills for $150.

FREE shipping. Money back guaranteed! 1-866-863-0142 .

The Generac PWRcell, a solar plus battery storage system. SAVE money, reduce your reliance on the grid, prepare for power outages and power your home.

Full installation services available. $0 Down Financing Option. Request a FREE, no obligation, quote today.

Call 1-855-913-2156

Applying for Social Security Disability or Appealing a Denied Claim? Call Bill Gordon & Assoc. Our case managers simplify the process & work hard to help with your case.

Call 1-844-408-7325 FREE Consultation. Local Attorneys Nationwide [Mail: 2420 N St NW, Washington DC. Office: Broward Co. FL (TX/NM Bar.)] A-1 DONATE YOUR CAR, RUNNING OR NOT!! FAST FREE PICKUP. Maximum tax deduction. Support United Breast Cancer Fdn programs.

Your car donation could save a life. 855-701-6346 BATHROOM RENOVATIONS. EASY, ONE DAY updates! We specialize in safe bathing.

Grab bars, no slip flooring & seated showers. Call for a free in-home consultation: 877-925-9682 COMPUTER ISSUES? GEEKS ON SITE provides FREE diagnosis REMOTELY 24/7 SERVICE DURING COVID19.

No homevisit necessary. $40 OFF with coup. on 86407! Restrictions apply.

844-315-8054 Attention: Oxygen Users!

Gain freedom with a Portable Oxygen Concentrator! No more heavy tanks and refills!

Guaranteed Lowest Prices!

Call the Oxygen Concentrator Store: 844-866-4793