Union County Weekly Jan. 28, 2022 by Charlotte Media Group

INSIDE ▼ BBB details what consumers complain about most PAGE 2B Friday, Jan. 28, 2022 • Vol. 16 • No. 4

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County targets capital projects by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

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

MONROE – Union County plans to check off several capital improvement projects from its todo list through the issuance of twothirds general obligation bonds in the amount of $20,380,000. This type of bond is calculated at two-thirds of the prior fiscal year’s reduction of general obligation debt. Union County can take advantage of this tool because it paid off nearly

$30.9 million in general obligation bond debt last fiscal year and didn’t issue any new bonds, according to Finance Director Beverly Liles. The county doesn’t have to get voter approval to issue these bonds, but it will have to hold a public hearing. Commissioners are scheduled to hold a public hearing and adopt the bond orders on Feb. 7. Liles said these normally don’t require a tax increase and the debt service will be included in the manager’s recommended budget.

The county plans to use twothirds bonds to pay for the following capital costs: • $5,192,000 for South Piedmont Community College renovations. • $4,900,000 for Union County Public Schools projects, including design costs for Forest Hills High School and East Elementary School. • $4,070,000 for law enforcement, including renovations to the county jail and Patton Avenue radio shop. • $3,750,000 for general govern-

ment buildings, including repairs and renovations to the historic courthouse, government center/judicial center and the Progress Building. • $1,900,000 for parks and recreation, including improvements at Jesse Helms Park and Cane Creek Park. • $778,000 for library upgrades, including improvements to the main library and furniture, fixtures and equipment for the Southwest Union Regional Library.

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Joyner offers broader tobacco rules

WHAT'S INSIDE:

by Justin Vick

justin@cmgweekly.com

Calling artists Waxhaw wants to adorn new downtown park, 2A

Glee & glory Theater students earn praise at festival, 2A

No stress Nonprofit resumes free tax service, 4A

Looking back Carolina Courts made splash 13 years ago, 2B

THE PEOPLE'S MAYOR Michael Alvarez leaves a legacy of giving back to the community, see page 1B

Leaders to evaluate 74X bus ridership by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

MONROE – Union County leaders are researching ridership numbers for the 74X Union County Express to evaluate whether to eliminate the bus service. Union County has been contracting with the City of Charlotte for the service since 2004. The route is designed to transport Union County residents to

Uptown Charlotte on weekdays mornings and back home in the evenings. The route has three stops in both Indian Trail and Monroe. It previously served Marshville and Wingate. Union County and Charlotte each pay 50% of the net operating costs minus revenue from tickets. Expenses are increasing, with Union County’s annual cost share increasing from $99,000

to $131,000, according to Janet Payne, assistant director for human services of Union County. Farebox revenue has decreased from $101,000 to $70,000. “Given the limited resources that we have, what is the most prudent use of limited county and grant funds?" Payne said. "Should we focus available county dollars on the provision of human services-related transportaiton, getting our residents to medical appointments

and other necessary services? Or should we continue to fund 74 Express service at the level that we have historically done with the goal of enabling reduced congestion on the roadways in Mecklenburg County and provisional trips from Union County to Charlotte’s central business district?” Union County’s transportation advisory board developed see BUS, Page 5A

MONROE – Union County is considering strengthening its tobacco ordinance. Public Health Director Dennis Joyner introduced a proposal Jan. 18 to commissioners that would restrict tobacco use on county property, not just inside buildings. Joyner said the current ordinance restricts smoking in county buildings such as the courthouse, libraries, public health and social services building and the old post ofJoyner fice building. However, it doesn’t address chewing tobacco or vaping. It also doesn’t address tobacco use near entrances expect for the human services building. “It’s not a comprehensive countywide ordinance,” Joyner said. Union County’s human services board is recommending commissioners expand the ordinance to address county property and vehicles as well as other forms of tobacco. Stephanie Starr, who directs community support and outreach, suggested the policy go into effect on July 1 with the county spending the next few months educating the community and staff on the updated ordinance as well as how to quit using tobacco. “We know that this is a difficult addiction,” Starr said. “It’s not something easy to stop doing, so we want to make sure that there are supports available to people who would like to quit.” Starr said passing the ordinance will potentially increase staff productivity, lower healthcare costs, reduce the number of missed workdays and reduce clean-up costs. Commissioner Stony Rushing asked if someone could wear a nicotine patch or chew nicotine gum under the ordinance, which they may. Rushing also asked if people smoke or vape in buildings. He then asked if the agriculture center was included, which it is. The only area Rushing brought up that people would be allowed to use tobacco would be the courthouse courtyard, which is a street right of way. Rushing said he hates cigarette smoke, but he had some issues with the ordinance. Kim Bayha, a health professional and resident of the Wesley Chapel area, was among two residents to speak in favor of the ordinance. “It is well documented that when tobacco-free environments are in place, there are significant outcomes,” Bayha said. “It supports people who currently use tobacco yet want to quit and trying to quit, which is about 70% of current users.” She added that such ordinances also reduce secondhand smoke, vaping aerosols and influence on youth. Chris Conway, of Indian Trail, said approving the ordinance is the right thing to do.

Page 2A • The Weekly • Jan. 28, 2022

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

WAXHAW – The Town of Waxhaw is seeking a qualified artist to create a sculpture for the new community park in downtown. The permanent fixture will be a visual focal point for the community to enjoy. The artwork will feature the image of a feather, representative of the Native American heritage of Waxhaw. “We want to make sure the artwork remains relevant to the overall essence of the community,” said Dena Sabinske, the town’s parks and recreation director. “Downtown Waxhaw is a vital center of community activity, and we would like all residents and visitors to

aesthetically enjoy their experience while walking through the public park.” Artists who have a background in metalwork or sculpture work are encouraged to apply at https:// tinyurl.com/waxhawdowntownparkartproject. The town broke ground on its newest park Oct. 29, 2021. The ceremony marked the start of Phase 1 (clearing/grading, utilities, drives, parking) for 9.9 acres of park space. The new neighborhood park is located off 301 Givens St., two blocks south of South Main Street (NC 75), between Broad and Church streets.

Students perform well at theater festival

ART DIRECTOR Lonna Koblick art@cmgweekly.com ADVERTISING Charlotte Conway charlotte@cmgweekly.com SUPPORT ADMINISTRATOR Aspen Earley aspen@cmgweekly.com

NEWSLETTER

The Charlotte Area Transit System traded in its color-coded bus passes for more artistic works of art created by local artists. Photos courtesy of CATS

CATS debuts special edition transit passes designed by local artists 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.

This rendering shows the potential of a sculpture in downtown Waxhaw. Photo courtesy of Town of Waxhaw

CHARLOTTE – The Charlotte Area Transit System conducted a contest last year asking community members to submit original artwork with a Charlotte-inspired theme. Three Charlotte artists were selected to have their designs printed on special edition Local, Express and Express Monthly passes for the entire 2022 calendar

year. First Place: Eva Crawford - Local Monthly Pass Second Place: Maria Senkel - Express Monthly Pass Third Place: Leandro Manzo - Express Plus Monthly Pass Winning designs were selected by a panel of artists and transit professionals. Local art instructor Eva

Crawford was the contest’s first-place winner. Crawford said her submission was inspired by the “energy, support and love” she witnessed during the painting of the Black Lives Matter mural on Tryon Street. The special edition monthly passes are available for purchase anywhere CATS passes are sold.

Students representing Innovation Drama Academy in Monroe and Spotlight Players in Mint Hill earned recognition at the 2022 Junior Theater Festival Atlanta. The weekend dedicated to rewarding and celebrating student-driven musical theater programs happened online and in-person Jan. 14 to 16 in Atlanta. Each group performed 15 minutes of a Broadway Junior musical for adjudicators. Innovation Drama Academy Innovation Drama Academy presented “Singin’ in the Rain JR.” Students Anaiyah Bivens and Omari Cupid stood out as All-Stars. Broadway actor Krystina Alabado noticed how Innovation Drama Academy had fun telling the story. She described student Omari Cupid, who played Don Lockwood, as a “standout and a clearly respected leader.” “'Singin’ In the Rain JR.

stole our hearts this morning,'” director Holly Stanfield said. “The commitment to their story, and the joy and confidence they exuded really entertained the audience at JTF’s Silver Pod.” Spotlight Players Spotlight Players presented “Guys and Dolls JR.” Students Jaylen Dickerson and Izzy Meltzer were designated as All-Stars. “This group is small but mighty and I thoroughly enjoyed their performance,” director and choreographer Carol Worcel said. “They demonstrated cleverness in staging this piece with a limited number of actors. Shout out to the student choreographer on her first endeavor.” Theater teacher Paul Brewster McGinley said the group was very committed. "The program seems to value both process and product," Brewster McGinley said.

The Weekly • Jan. 28, 2022 • Page 3A

Foundation president is planning for retirement CHARLOTTE – Michael Marsicano will retire from his role as president and CEO of the Foundation For The Carolinas in January 2023, concluding 23 years with the Charlotte-based community foundation. Marsicano’s guidance of the foundation has seen the organization grow from $245 million in philanthropic assets when he began in 1999 to nearly $4 billion today. As a result, Foundation For The Carolinas rose from the 35th largest community foundation in terms of asset size to currently the sixth largest in the country. Contributions to Foundation For The Carolinas funds during Marsicano’s tenure have exceeded $5.9 billion (including more than $750 million in 2021 alone), and grant awards to benefit nonprofits total more than $4.2 billion. “I am so fortunate and honored to have led the Foundation and to have worked with such generous donors and community partners over the decades,” Marsicano said. “Given the talented staff, leadership and governing board we have in place to shepherd Foundation For The Carolinas forward, no beat will be skipped after my retirement. “And, of course, all that the foundation has accomplished in my 23 years is due to the generous fundholders and community leaders who make our work possible. It is because of their commitment to the region – and to this com-

munity foundation – that we have been able to advance efforts in affordable housing, economic opportunity, racial equity and so much more.” The foundation’s governing board of directors has appointed a search committee to lead the national search for the next president and CEO and has engaged Russell Reynolds Associates to partner with them. As a pivotal first step in the search process, community members and other stakeholders will be invited to provide input on the leadership and organizational needs and candidate nominations to the search committee and Russell Reynolds. The search committee will be chaired by FFTC Governing Board Chair Barnes Hauptfuhrer and will include past chair Jewell Hoover and board members Cathy Bessant, Jesse Cureton, Jada Grandy-Mock, Kelly Katterhagen, Susan Kluttz and Ruth G. Shaw. “In terms of Charlotte civic leadership, few, if any, loom larger in this community than Michael Marsicano,” Hauptfuhrer said. “He has served our region tirelessly, putting the needs of others first as he advanced causes to benefit the greater good. A relentless worker, selfless leader and dedicated community servant, we have been blessed to have Michael at the helm of the Foundation for the last two decades. Additionally, he has positioned this organization for success for years to come, leaving a lasting

Michael Marsicano has helped nonprofits for two decades.

legacy for his successor.” A prolific fundraiser and community leader, Marsicano shepherded many high-profile fundraising initiatives during his tenure at FFTC. Recent efforts include: $217 million raised (to date) to support the Mayor’s Racial Equity Initiative; $53 million for the Charlotte Housing Opportunity Investment Fund; more than $50 million to renovate the Carolina Theatre, a historic movie theatre that will reopen in fall 2022 as a civic gathering space; $23.5 million for the COVID-19 Response Fund; and $23 million to support Charlotte’s arts and culture sector. Since 2019 alone, Marsicano has raised nearly half a billion dollars for community-wide civic initiatives. Under Marsicano’s leadership, Foundation For The Carolinas positioned itself as a community consensus builder to address the region’s greatest challenges – formally recognizing civic leadership as one of

Last year, Loaves & Fishes/Friendship Trays provided groceries and meals to over 80,000 people in Mecklenburg County. Photo courtesy of Loaves & Fishes/Friendship Trays

Boy Scouts collect donations for Scouting for Food on Feb. 5 CHARLOTTE – Scouts with the Mecklenburg County Council of the Boy Scouts of America will go door-to-door Feb. 5 collecting non-perishable food items for Loaves & Fishes/Friendship Trays. Thanks to the 346,000 pounds of food collected in last year’s Scouting for Food Drive, Loaves & Fishes/Friendship Trays was able to respond to the increased hunger needs in the community due to the continuing pandemic. The week prior to Feb. 5, Mecklenburg County Scouts will distribute bright red Scouting for Food Door Hangers, provided by Harris Teeter, in neighborhoods throughout the county. If you receive a door hanger, fill a bag or box with non-perishable food items and leave outside your home by 9 a.m. for pick up by the Scouts on Feb. 5. Priority needs include canned fruit (in fruit juice), canned meats, canned pastas and canned vegetables. The nonprofit is in need of low sodium, low fat and low sugar items. No glass items please. If a Scout does not leave a door hanger on your door, you can still give. Drop off food donations, drive-through style, at any of the locations listed below from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 5; from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. Feb. 6 at certain locations; or from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mondays through Friday at the Loaves & Fishes/Friendship Trays ware-

house at 648 Griffith Road. Financial donations can be made directly to Loaves & Fishes/Friendship Trays by texting 44321 on your mobile phone and entering the code: Scout4Food. Scouts will be on hand to collect donations at these locations Feb. 5: • Ada Jenkins Center, 212 Gamble St., Davidson (Feb. 5 only drop-off site) • Arboretum Shopping Center, Providence Road & N.C. 51, Charlotte (across from the Harris Teeter) • Huntersville United Methodist Church, 14005 Stumptown Road, Huntersville • Philadelphia Presbyterian Church, 11501 Bain School Road, Mint Hill (Feb. 5 only drop-off site) • Sharon Presbyterian Church, 5201 Sharon Road, Charlotte • South Mecklenburg Presbyterian, 8601 Bryant Farms Road, Charlotte (Feb. 5 only drop-off site) • Steele Creek Athletic Association, 13530 Choate Circle, Charlotte (Feb. 5 only dropoff site) • Town Center Plaza, 8600 University City Blvd., Charlotte • Trinity Presbyterian Church, 3115 Providence Road, Charlotte (Feb. 5 only drop-off site) On the web: www.loavesandfishes.org

Page 4A • The Weekly • Jan. 28, 2022

Common Heart offers free tax service INDIAN TRAIL– Volunteers with Common Heart will offer free income tax service to residents beginning Jan. 25. Common Heart has offered free tax services for 11 years. Trained and certified volunteers provide the tax services as part of the national Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program. The service is a continued partnership with Community Link. Executive Director Keith Adams said the program gives a needed boost to many in the community.

“Our free tax service helps take the stress out of tax time and allows our hard-working neighbors to use the money they save on tax preparation fees for other needs, like food, rent or medical bills or, in the case of one of our friends, a down payment on a home,” Adams said. “We serve people from all walks of life – college students, teachers, hairstylists, retail staff, local government employees and retirees.” Common Heart volunteers filed 282 income tax returns last year.

The free service assisted residents in receiving $463,432 in total refunds and saved them an estimated total of $42,300 in tax return fees, Site Supervisor Bruce Gorrell said. It’s important to the volunteer team that the service be open this year because so many struggling neighbors count on them, he said. Individuals and families with an annual household income of $58,000 or less are eligible for the free assistance. Residents do not have to live in Union County. Sign

up online at 1040.CommonHeart. org to make an appointment. Anyone who is unable to use a computer to sign up can call 704601-4966 between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Monday through Friday to be added to a return call list. Online sign-up is the quickest way to ensure a desired day and time. In-person preparation will return this year with proof of COVID-19 vaccination. Masks will be required. For those who have not received a

COVID-19 vaccine, there will be virtual tax appointments available through Community Link. Appointments are available Tuesdays 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2-5 p.m., Thursdays noon to 3 p.m. and 4 to 7 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. All appointments are at the Common Heart main office, 116 Business Park Drive, Suite A, Indian Trail. Drop-off services will not be available this year. On the web: www.CommonHeart.org/community-services

Jimmy John’s grows footprint CHARLOTTE – A new Jimmy John’s shop at 9848 Rea Road is serving gourmet sandwiches. “This will be our first store in Charlotte and our team is excited to serve fresh, fast and tasty sandwiches to a new set of customers in the area,” owner Nick Fischioni said. Fischioni plans to hire around 18 employees. Email jimmyjohns4249@gmail.com, visit www.careers.jimmyjohns.com or call 704-4437077 to apply.

Staff reach service milestones MONROE – Union County commissioners recognized staff Jan. 18 for service milestones. They were as follows: • 5 years: Katrina Alexander, Whitney Bolick, Ashleigh Edwards, Alisecia Merriman, Cheyenne Miller, Michael Mulligan, Lisa Ortiz-Fraticelli, Christopher Privette, Keosha Reynolds, Ashley Smith, Yolanda Williams and Tracey Woods. • 10 years: Kay Eudy, Andrew Hogan, Rosa Perez, Sherri Pressley and Melanie Underwood. • 15 years: Leslie Brett, Thomas Coppedge and Cristina Funderburke. • 20 years: Joshua Carpenter, Anthony Merrell and Mark Lemmond.. The county also recognized January retirees Victor Adcock, Gloria Haney, Gail Horne and Bryan Wentz.

Black-led startups win grants DURHAM – NC IDEA has awarded $525,000 in Growth Grants to seven Black-founded former NC IDEA SEED grant recipients. Three of the winners are from Charlotte: • BatteryXchange, a sharing economy platform providing device charging on the go and marketing services to amplify the voices of small businesses. • Freeman Capital, a new automated trading company that brings wealth empowerment to the middle class and millennials. • Smart Girls HQ, which creates engaging content and facilitates exciting experiences that enable elementary-aged girls to achieve STEM Career Literacy by age 12. The NC BEC Growth Grants were awarded to former NC IDEA SEED grant recipients with primary headquarters in North Carolina with at least one founder working at the company identifying as Black or African-American.

Kitchen offers Southern comfort

Painted Tree Boutique gives local creatives a place to showcase their work. Photos courtesy of Painted Tree Boutique

One-stop shop

Painted Tree Boutique brings multi-store concept to former Stein Mart building CHARLOTTE – Painted Tree Boutiques continues to expand its retail experience with a new store opening Jan. 13 at 1813 Matthews Township Pkwy. A grand opening celebration is scheduled for Feb. 5. Since 2015, Painted Tree Boutiques has been creating a unique retail experience for local small business owners and customers by housing hundreds of different shops under one roof. Painted Tree stores began as a way

of providing local creatives and small business owners with a retail space to share their products. Shop owners can curate their space to fit the style and display needs of their products while the Painted Tree staff manage the store so shop owners can make sales at any time during the store’s hours. People interested in selling inside Painted Tree can apply by calling 844762-3342 or visiting www.paintedtree. com/vendors.

CHARLOTTE – Executive Chef Scott Guynup at Cantina 1511’s Park Road Shopping Center location has partnered with The Southern Comfort Café to prepare Sunday dinner for delivery seven days a week. Like other popular ghost kitchens, The Southern Comfort Café creates food for off-premises consumption with no brick-and-mortar space, no dining rooms and no servers. Order online only for pick up or delivery. The kitchen specializes in down-home, from scratch southern comfort food favorites such as the Classic Chicken Pot Pie, Grannie’s Chicken and Dumplings, and Company Pot Roast. Sides include Southern Mashed Potatoes, Mac and Cheese, Pineapple Casserole. Desserts such as home-made cobblers and decadent banana pudding, let sweet teeth run wild. On the web: www.TheSouthernComfortCafe. com.

Café celebrates Pancake Month CHARLOTTE – Flying Biscuit Café invites customers to celebrate National Pancake Month at its south Charlotte locations. In February, participating locations are bringing back their Red Velvet Pancakes with cream cheese frosting, topped with fresh strawberries. Additionally, on Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14, all dine-in guests will be treated to a free Chocolate Biscuit Bread Pudding, one per table. Flying Biscuit Café has locations at 4241 Park Road and 7930A Rea Road.

Report: Raleigh, Charlotte finances among best in country by Nyamekye Daniel Contributor

(The Center Square) – Raleigh and Charlotte are among 14 large cities that had more than enough money to pay their bills at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a Truth in Accounting report released Jan. 25. TIA’s annual Financial State of the Cities analysis examines the financial health of America’s 75 most-populous cities and calculates how much each resident would have to pay to cover all of their

city’s bills. The calculations were based on fiscal year 2020 audited financial reports. Raleigh, Charlotte and a dozen other cities had a budget surplus. Raleigh had a surplus of $313.7 million to pay its bills, including public employees’ retirement benefits, which broke down to a surplus of $2,200 per taxpayer. TIA analysts said Raleigh was financially sound before and during the pandemic and also received federal aid. TIA said Raleigh has maintained a taxpayer surplus for

the past six years. The city’s taxpayer surplus was seventh-highest among the other cities and earned Raleigh a grade of B in the analysis. Charlotte’s $295.4 million surplus, or $1,100 per taxpayer, represented the 10th-highest taxpayer surplus and earned it a grade of B in the analysis. Charlotte was in good financial condition and could pay all of its bills before the pandemic, including public employees’ retirement benefits. However, analysts found Charlotte lost $470 million largely because of a change in its Firefighters Retirement System’s

discount rate and poor investment results from the plan. Greensboro had a debt burden of $134.7 million at the beginning of the pandemic, costing taxpayers $1,500 each. “Greensboro did not have enough money set aside to weather the pandemic, and the city has been in poor fiscal shape for years,” TIA said. The city’s financial condition worsened by $47 million in fiscal year 2020 because of changes in assumptions for the city’s retiree health care benefits.

No city received a grade of A in the TIA analysis. Fourteen cities received a B grade. Greensboro was among 26 cities that received a C grade. Another 29 received Ds, and six cities received failing grades. New York City, Chicago, Honolulu, Philadelphia and Portland, Oregon, were the bottom five cities with the largest taxpayer burdens. The top five cities with a taxpayer surplus were Washington, D.C.; Irvine, California; Lincoln, Nebraska; Plano, Texas; and Aurora, Colorado.

The Weekly • Jan. 28, 2022 • Page 5A

Finding my happy spot amid pandemic

Tony Marciano Reverend

t this time two years ago, we were hearing about a virus that was overseas in China. I remember saying to myself, “Things like that never make it to the United States. It will probably stay there or perhaps affect a surrounding country. We’ll be fine.” Then we heard that the first COVID case was reported in the United States. It was happening in another state. We were safe in North Carolina. Then it hit our state. Then, it came to Mecklenburg County. At the time, I was able to use my hands to count the number of active cases in Mecklenburg County. After a while, I

needed to use my toes. I lost count. In 2020, I lost several friends who died from complications due to COVID. 2020 was scary because there was no vaccine. We learned to wear masks all the time. We pumped gas with plastic bags on our hands. Remember the challenge of trying to put your credit card into the slot at the pump? We didn’t go shopping (except for toilet paper). We stayed home. When the summer came and people went to the beach, my wife and I gasped to see how crowded the beaches were and no one was wearing a mask. It was the first summer we did not go to the beach. 2021 was different. Vaccines were being rolled out and we all

felt a lot safer. We flew on planes, traveled extensively and enjoyed ourselves. 2022 started with the omicron variant. It was known to be highly contagious. I thought I was bullet-proof to COVID. I came down with the virus on Dec. 26. While I was no longer contagious after 10 days, it took a few more days for me to regain my energy. I have some choices to make. I can decide to wait and only be happy after COVID goes away while moping about while it is still here. Happiness is a choice. It was a video that really got my attention. A friend called Steve at 5:30 every morning and said, “This is going to be a great day,” to which Steve said, “I am sleeping.” After a few days of

Covenant Day hires new leader MATTHEWS – Covenant Day School is promoting Mark Helmer as the next head of school after an extensive search. Helmer has served in numerous positions during his 24-year tenure at Covenant Day, including his current role as associate head of school, lower school principal, classroom teacher, assistant athletic director and coach. “It has been my great joy to witness God’s hand on Mark Helmer over the past 20 years,” said Rich Protasewich,

chair of the Head of School Search Committee. “His excellence and exuberance as a middle school science teacher, wisdom and steady guidance as a lower school principal, and most recently, maturity and thoughtfulness as associate head of school has prepared him well to be our next head of school.” Current Head of School Mark Davis is retiring after 10 years of service and has mentored Helmer over the last two years. Effective July 1, Helmer will officially become the school’s fourth

head of school as it celebrates 34 years of operation. “I look forward to continued service to the Lord and the CDS community,” Helmer said. “It is a tremendous privilege and responsibility to partner with Christian families in the training of their children, and we unreservedly commit to seeking the best for our students while remaining steadfast in our commitment to Christ. With God’s help, we will grow in grace, in our love for Him, and in preparing our students for their future.”

Wingate releases fall honors lists Dean’s List

President’s List

The Dean’s List includes undergraduate students who have earned a term GPA of at least a 3.30 but no more than a 3.799 on at least 12 quality-point academic hours and have no grade below a C-.

The President’s List includes undergraduate students who have earned a term GPA of 3.80 or higher on at least 12 quality-point academic hours and have no grade below a “C-”.

Indian Trail Zachary Bechtel, Lauren Bopp, Davis Clark, Jimena Correa Cortez, Kyle Countryman, Christopher Cruz, Bayley Dawson, Kathryn Drake, Brianna Dunn, Abigail Finley, Kacie Hall, Kierstin Hart, Jonathan Hendrick, Jacob Huber, Domiqe’ Jones, Soomin Lee, Jennifer Palmieri, Denis Pantus, Allison Rose and Isabella Siguenza. Marshville Rayanna Black, Giselle Lopez-Hidalgo, Hannah Maddox, Samuel Meares, Genesis Mendiola, Samantha Price, Patrick Sheppard and Holly Williams. Matthews Jacob Blank, Emma Burkart, Troy Langmeyer, Kyle Love, Amelia Lyons, Illiana Maloney, Heather Mychaylo, Alli Nethery, Matthew Starnes and Evan Zalaquett. Monroe Emma Adams, Hayleigh Adams, Kirsten Baucom, Jackson Boatright, Desnee Bryant, Mary Burnette, Brandon Butler, Martha Carranza Toledo, Cassidy Chukes, Abigail Clonts, Chloe Combs, Victoria Dennehy, Rena Elizondo, Emily Eubanks, Leigha Furr, Alana Gemind, Cynthia Gonzalez-Rojas, Benton Griffin, Ethan Griffin, Anna Haydel, Lizeth Ildefonso-Bacilio, Paul Janssen, Grant Jordan, Omar Marban-Figueroa, Hannah Massey, Madison McGarrigle, Kassidy McGee, Melonie Orduna-Villarreal, Oscar Osorio-Cruz, Montana Price, Riley Price, Marixa Reyes Palacios, Chloe Richardson, James Shaver, Sarai Villanueva, Madison Wilson, and Ashetyn Yandle. Waxhaw Nour Abodabba, Dana Badran, Rania Badran, Meagan Briggs, Philip Burgan, Austin Cain, Yasmin Cuestas, Larissa Decker, Kaitlyn Dembowski, Dezmend Diaz, Rebecca Edwards, Alexander Hagerman, Haylee Marsden, Grasyn McCaskill, Altha McDermott, Colin McKnight, Sarah McManus, Ashlee Monaghan, Lauren Morton, Julia Staples and Collin Welborn.

Indian Trail Maxim Biruk, Holly Brehaut, Brayan Castro, Nicole Cristy, Malik Jordan, Madison Ledford, Melanie Leidi, Isabella Lluhi, Britney Lopez Cheong, Jasmine McCollough, Jay Parrish, Justin Rose, Carissa Simpson and Braydon Willett. Marshville Julia Berardelli, Tanner Brooks, Connor Cook, Hannah Haigler, Colby Holmes, Cody Kelley, Haley Kuopus, Diego Morgado-Alfaro, Jenna Perry, Tori Pope, Peter Randall, Trevor Thomas and Felicia Xavier. Matthews Cynthia Conner, Kaylee Dellinger, Sarah Haymaker, Anastasia Kee, Tyler Moore, Ashlyn Ollenberger, Noah Richards and Isabella Walle. Monroe Kristal Albarez-Miranda, Hannah Andrew, Corey Avant, Callie Baucom, Brianna Bergamini, Kailey Brenize, Jordan Bromfield, Hayden Carnes, Rachel Chew, Wilson Childers, Rachel Chomicki, Reese Cochran, Jaylem Coppadge, Josiah Couick, Alaina Davis, Julianna Francis, Idania Giron-Monroy, Madison Hart, Lauren Hawkins, Dominique Helms, Zealy Helms, Jocelyn Hernandez Fino, Elizabeth Hinson, Laura Hinson, Jasmine Little, Alexis Lopez Mota, David McCallister, Hope McCallister, Melanie Page, Janna Plummer, Madelyn Reynolds, Kassidy Robinson, Daniel Rumley, Jesus Sanchez-Gloria,Caleb Simpson, Sarah Starnes, Cru Tucker, Luke Tucker, Alexandra Underwood, Hayley Vaughn, Mason Vercoe, Nathan Walton, Kaitlyn Waters and Nathan Williams. Waxhaw Evan Bernard, Elizabeth Branch, Suzannah Broom, Brock Cain, Erin Griffin, Christian Habermeyer, Stephanie Hargus, Parker Holler, Brynn Hughes, Lauren Hultquist, Jessica Medina, Chloe Murphy, Peter Newton, Olivia Thomas, Maggie Young and Elizabeth Yanacsek. Wingate Savanna Brooks, Amber Haney, Bryn Heath, Trevor Helms and Jocelyn Huntley.

Wingate Yosan Berhane, Martha Loredo and Rosaura Saucedo-Leana.

BUS (continued from page 1A)

four options regarding the 74X and funding. They decided on the following strategy: • Maintain 74X service through fiscal year 2023. • Study the preferred transit service along the U.S. 74 corridor between Union and Mecklenbug counties as well as optimal use of funding used for the current service. • Work toward a cost-sharing agreement with municipalities for fiscal year 2023 and

beyond if the 74X is continued. 74X Express ridership has declined from nearly 33,999 trips in fiscal year 2016 to 20,749 in 2020, according to Theresa Torres, transportation division director for Union County. Commissioner Richard Helms asked how many people are riding the bus, but CATS measures ridership in terms of trips. Going to Charlotte counts as one trip. Going back counts as another. Union County has to give CATS 125 days notice if it were to cancel the service.

this, his friend reminded him that he had a choice for the attitude that he began each day. As I watched that video, I began to look at my own life. I jokingly say that I don’t wake up and say, “Good morning, Lord.” Rather, I wake up and say, “Good Lord, it’s morning.” While people laugh, I found myself waking up each day with a sense of dread over what lay ahead. Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote, “Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year. He is rich who owns the day, and no one owns the day who allows it to be invaded with fret and anxiety. Finish each day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Some blunders and absurdities,

no doubt crept in. Forget them as soon as you can, tomorrow is a new day; begin it well and serenely, with too high a spirit to be cumbered with your old nonsense. This new day is too dear, with its hopes and invitations, to waste a moment on the yesterdays.” Scripture tells us “This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.” What’s your happy place. It is this moment. This very moment you have been given the gift of life. You will never get it back. I’ll be back soon. Until then, live well my friend. The Rev. Tony Marciano is the president/CEO of Charlotte Rescue Mission.

REGIONAL The Weekly • Jan. 28, 2022 • Page 1B

CMG file photo

Lasting legacy

Reactions

Indian Trail Mayor Michael Alvarez continued serving despite health problems until his death Arrangements • Mayor Michael Alvarez will lie in state in the Indian Trail Town Hall (315 Matthews-Indian Trail Road) from noon to 8 p.m. Jan. 28 and from 10 a.m. to noon Jan. 29. Park at town hall or Chestnut Square Park. • He will also lie in state at the James B. Crump VFW Post 2423 (100 VFW Lane) from 1 to 2 p.m. Jan. 29. • Visitation spans from 3 to 4 p.m. Jan. 29 at First Baptist Church Indian Trail (732 Indian trail-Fairview Road), followed by a celebration of life at 4 p.m. • Visit https://www.lifeandlegacyservice.com/obituary/ Michael-Alvarez to read his obituary. • Search for “Support for Michael Alvarez and Family” at www.gofundme.com to help support his family.

As Michael Alvarez shared with us why he sought a third term as mayor in 2019, he didn’t offer any specific plans or focus on any issues. He just wanted to serve. “If one person like Dr. Martin Luther King, Rosa Parks or someone like that can make a difference in history, I can make a difference in Indian Trail and hopefully grow something positive,” he told us. He was especially proud of the town’s contribution to a child protection bill known as Kilah’s Law and a victim’s rights bill known as Marsy’s Law. He took pride in the Mayor’s Tree Initiative. He loved mentoring youth and supporting veterans. Yet, Alvarez was the first to admit he wasn’t perfect. One of the most contentious issues during his tenure was when the town evaluated whether to launch a police force. His tie-breaking vote ensured the town re-

newed its contract with the sheriff’s office. Not long after, the council censured Alvarez after he admitted to exaggerating to the media about the issue. That happened in his first term. He was reelected twice. As he began his third term, things started falling apart. The town lost another manager, COVID-19 created chaos, Alvarez had to get his arm amputated and a council member resigned and later died. He continued to stay positive. He continued to persevere. He continued to try to set an example for others. Eventually, the town hired an experienced manager in Michael McLaurin and Money Magazine tabbed Indian Trail as one of the Best Places to Live in the U.S. I hope in his final days Alvarez realized how far the town has come during his time as mayor. -- Justin Vick

Alvarez in Action

Oct. 17, 2011 Alvarez participates in his first election forum

Dec. 3, 2011 Newly elected, Alvarez joins the Christmas parade

Dec. 13, 2016

March 23, 2017

Alvarez congratulates Ray Killough with citizen award

Alvarez breaks ground on Shoppes at Hanfield Village

May 2014

April 2016

Alvarez recognizes Purple Heart Chapter 634

Alvarez plants trees with Shiloh Elementary students

Feb. 27, 2018 Alvarez swears in Marcus McIntyre to the council

Aug. 11, 2020 Alvarez celebrates a resident’s 100th birthday

Gov. Roy Cooper: Our prayers are with the friends and family of Indian Trail Mayor Michael Alvarez who has passed away after a brave battle with cancer. We are thankful for his public service to Indian Trail and North Carolina. N.C. Sen. Todd Johnson: My heart goes out to the family of Indian Trail Mayor Michael Alvarez, who today lost his battle with cancer. He served our community with courage and inspired many through his struggles. God’s Grace. Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles: Mayor Alvarez loved his city, Indian Trail. Condolences to his family and his city. Weddington Mayor Craig Horn: Saddened on news Michael Alverez, Indian Trail Mayor, passed away. His courageous battle for health & healing detailed in autobiography “Long Road To Normal.” His counsel & friendship is held dear by all he helped, encouraged & supported. The embodiment of The Servant’s Heart. Former Gov. Pat McCrory: Praying for the family of Mayor Michael Alvarez, whose fight with cancer just ended. Mayor Alvarez was a dedicated public servant, who cared so deeply about Indian Trail. He was beloved by all & was a friend of mine, & Indian Trail families will miss him! Publisher Adrian Garson: I knew Mayor Alvarez for nearly eight years. Even throughout his struggles with lupus and cancer, he fiercely advocated for the Town of Indian Trail. He loved NC and his town. He will be missed. Town of Stallings: The Town of Stallings extends its sincere condolences to the Town of Indian Trail after the loss of Mayor Michael Alvarez. Your neighbors in Stallings are thinking of the Alvarez Family and all our friends and colleagues in Indian Trail. Town of Weddington: The Town of Weddington honors the passing of Indian Trail Mayor Michael Alvarez. The flag at Town Hall will be flown at half-staff to pay tribute to his life and public service. James B. Crump VFW Post 2423: Mayor Alvarez has always been one of our biggest supporters with a true servants heart. This is a tremendous loss for our Post, Auxiliary and the community of Indian Trail.

Page 2B • The Weekly • Jan. 28, 2022

Looking Back: 20 Years of The Weeklies

Stein: How to spot scam debt collectors by Josh Stein Contributor

ABOVE: Ron Esser & Scott Chitwood opened Carolina Courts in Indian Trail to “provide a much-needed relief valve to the area’s overbooked indoor courts while championing fundamentals over showcase-style basketball,” according to the Jan. 23, 2009 issue of Union County Weekly. LEFT: NBA legend Muggsy Bogues worked with Special Olympics athletes on Jan. 29, 2016, at Crestdale Middle in Matthews. BELOW: NBA star Stephen Curry returned to Charlotte Christian to have his jersey retired on Jan. 24, 2017. “We are celebrating the jersey retirement,” he said at the time, “but when it comes to the full package of life, I learned a lot here that made me who I am.” See daily Look Back posts on social media @mmhweekly, @ucweekly and @southcltweekly

f you have bills that are past due, you might be contacted by a debt collector. But don’t be fooled: scammers often impersonate debt collectors to try to convince people that they owe unpaid debts or try to scare or threaten people to collect on non-existent debt. Being contacted by a legitimate debt collector can be stressful on its own – make sure that you look for these signs to help you spot any scam artists. If you’ve been contacted by someone about a debt they claim you owe, do some homework to make sure the debt and the collector are real. Get the name of the caller, the name of the collection company, its address, and its phone number. You can verify that this company is licensed by contacting the North Carolina Secretary of State and the North Carolina Department of Insurance. You should also confirm information that debt collectors are legally required to give you: • the amount of the debt • the name of the current creditor • how to get the name of the original creditor • how to dispute the debt if you don’t think it’s correct. A telling sign of a scammer is the usage of threatening or aggressive language. Remember that debt collectors cannot use inappropriate language, call you again and again, or threaten to arrest you or take other actions, such as suspending your driver’s license, reporting you to immigration authorities, or calling your employer. If you’re being threatened, the debt collector is either a scammer or breaking the law. Hang up and report the call to NCDOJ’s Consumer Protection Division (1-877-5-NO-SCAM) and the FTC (ftc.gov/complaint). Do not give out personal information such as your address, social security number, or birthdate to anyone who calls you, including someone claiming to be a debt collector. Real debt collectors already have this information. Previously, debt collectors were only able to call you or send you a letter. Now, they can also contact you via text message, email, and social media. But if they contact you on social media, but they must follow certain rules. They cannot send you a message that

Car dealers top BBB of annual complain list

CHARLOTTE – Better Business Bureau of Southern Piedmont and Western North Carolina released its 2021 annual report Jan. 24, detailing consumer activity related to businesses located in the BBB’s 37-county service area. Consumer Complaints Consumers filed nearly 23,000 complaints in 2021 against area businesses, showing a slight increase from 2020. “Over the last year, we’ve made great modifications and enhancements to our systems, including our online complaint form,” said Tom Bartholomy, president of BBB of Southern Piedmont and Western North Carolina. “The form has been improved to truly understand the desired outcome of a situation presented by a consumer. This has led to consumers being able to more easily differentiate between a complaint and a customer review, resulting in minimal complaint growth year over year and substantial customer review growth year over year, as you’ll see in the next section.” BBB resolved 92% of submitted complaints. Verified Customer Reviews Customers submitted more than 19,000 verified reviews in 2021 about businesses, showing a 30% increase from 2020. “Customer reviews grew drastically in 2021,” Bartholomy said. “Potential customers always want to know what third parties say about a business they’re considering working with, and the BBB is a great resource for that. We are thrilled to see customers continuing to take advantage of this outlet by sharing positive or negative feedback about their experience with a business.” Top Complaint Generators 2021 1. New Car Dealers 2. Used Car Dealers 3. Auto Service 4. Collection Agencies 5. Property Management Top Complaint Generators 2020 1. Banks 2. Home Improvement 3. Gun Dealers 4. Auto Repair 5. Auto Dealers - New On the web: www.bbb.org

others can see, they must identify themselves as a debt collector, and they have to tell you how you can opt out of social media communications. If you have any questions about debt collectors, you can learn more at ftc.gov/ debtcollection or at https://ncdoj.gov/ protecting-consumers/credit-and-debt/ debt-collectors/. If you have a complaint or are unsure about a debt collector, call us at 1-877-5-NO-SCAM or https://ncdoj.gov/ file-a-complaint/. Josh Stein serves as attorney general of North Carolina.

The Weekly • Jan. 28, 2022 • Page 3B

Smart Chicken delivers truckloads of food donations CHARLOTTE – Smart Chicken delivered 55,500 pounds of much-needed protein (a value of $176,745) Jan. 19 to Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina. The donation will be used to help serve children and their families at school-based mobile pantries and high-poverty schools, emergency food pantries and other feeding programs that the food bank sponsors. This donation comes to Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina through the Smart Giving campaign that Smart Chicken sponsors

in partnership with Harris Teeter. The campaign donates one pound of poultry for every 10 pounds of product purchased at Harris Teeter stores within the food banks service region. “Since 2008, Smart Chicken has partnered with SHFBM and Harris Teeter to end hunger by providing approximately 486,000 pounds of nutritious food to thousands of hard-working adults, children, seniors and veterans who simply cannot make ends meet and are faced with the harsh realities of hunger,” said Kay Carter, CEO of the food

bank. “We are thankful for this donation and our continued partnership.” In the 24-county region served by Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina, over 512,000 residents are food insecure, including over 168,000 children and over 50,000 seniors. The food bank provides food to over 950 partner agencies including emergency pantries, soup kitchens, low-income daycares, homeless shelters, senior programs and organizations serving veterans.

DINING SCORES

RECIPE

Health departments in Mecklenburg and Union counties inspected these restaurants from Jan. 14 to 20: Lowest Scores • Mr. Tokyo, 10412 E. Independence Blvd. – 86 Violations include: Inspector said kitchen had lack of control when it came to washing hands and cooling food; employees put on gloves without washing hands after adjusting masks and hair; unwashed asparagus and peppers were stored over washed produce; and sushi rolls weren’t cooled fast enough; raw chicken, shrimp and beef weren’t held cold enough. • Clean Juice, 2927 Selwyn Ave. 88.5 Violations include: Certified person-in-charge and employee health policy weren’t available; vomit and diarrhea clean-up plan wasn’t in place; and employee dropped container used for storing fruit into trash can and continued using it without properly cleaning it. All Scores Charlotte (28209) • 1900 Mexican Grill, 5110 Park Road – 97 • Clean Juice, 2927 Selwyn Ave. – 88.5 • Domino’s Pizza, 4755 South Blvd. – 99 • Reid’s Fine Foods, 2823 Selwyn Ave. – 96.5 • Shake Shack, 1605 E. Woodlawn Road – 99.5 • Waffle House, 4739 South Blvd. – 94

Pumpkin Pie

Recipe & photo courtesy of YorkTest

Pumpkin pie is actually one of the simplest and tastiest pies to easily make at home, if you’re still craving the winter comfort that a pumpkin pie brings. A Thanksgiving staple, it’s made with a sweet filling consisting of pumpkin puree, sugar and cream, along with a warming spice blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and clove. Think falling leaves, cable knit sweaters and chatting by the fire. Ingredients 15oz can of pumpkin puree 2 eggs, beaten ½ cup dark brown sugar ⅓ cup white sugar ½ tsp salt ½ tsp ground nutmeg, grated 2 teaspoons of cinnamon 1 teaspoon of ground ginger ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves 9-inch pie crust, store-bought or baked at home 14 ounce can of condensed milk or heavy cream

Smart Chicken delivered truckloads of protein delivered to Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina. Photo courtesy of Smart Chicken

Serves 8 Prep time: 5 mins Cook time: 65-70 mins Total time: 70-75 mins

Method 1. Preheat your oven to 425F. 2. Whisk your eggs in a medium bowl, and then add in brown sugar, white sugar, spices and salt. 3. Mix in pumpkin puree. Combine until your mixture is smooth. 4. Pour mixture into crust. Bake in the oven for 15 minutes. 5. Lower your oven temperature to 350F and continue to bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Check it’s done by inserting a knife into the center and making sure that it comes out clean. 6. Cool and enjoy.

Charlotte (28211) • Chick-fil-A, 4431 Randolph Road – 98 • Chickpeasy On Wheels, 3500 Latrobe Drive – 97 • Fresh Market, 4207 Providence Road – 99 • Poppycox, 3500 Latrobe Drive – 98.5 • Soul Miners Garden, 3500 Latrobe Drive – 97 • Tayste Catering, 3500 Latrobe Drive – 98.5 Charlotte (28226) • 7-Eleven, 7511 Pineville-Matthews Road – 90 • Taqueria Los Dos Carnales, 7731 Colony Road – 98.5 Charlotte (28270) • Zaxby’s, 1930 Sardis Road N. – 97 Charlotte (28277) • 9 Spices Indian Cuisine, 8145 Ardrey Kell Road – 91 • City Barbeque, 11212 Providence Road W. – 97 • Earth Fare, 12235 N. Community House Road – 94 • Firebirds, 7716 Rea Road – 94.5 • Hampton Inn, 11935 N. Community House Road – 99.5 • Harris Teeter (market & seafood), 7852 Rea Road – 97 • Katz Deli, 8624 Camfield St. – 98 • King Kabab, 14027 Conlan Circle – 97.5 • Portofino’s Italian, 8128 Providence Road – 97 • Smoothie King, 14825 Ballantyne Village Way – 100 • Subway, 10822 Providence Road – 96 • Zeitouni Mediterranean, 3419 Toringdon Way – 99.5

Indian Trail • Food Lion (deli), 7876 Idlewild Road – 99.5 • Food Lion (produce), 7876 Idlewild Road – 97.5 • Food Lion (meat), 7876 Idlewild Road – 97.5 Matthews • Cantina Louie, 2225 Matthews Township Pkwy. – 95 • Costco (deli), 2125 Matthews Township Pkwy. – 100 • Costco (mkt), 2125 Matthews Township Pkwy. – 98.5 • First Watch, 1701 Matthews Township Pkwy. – 96.5 • Five Guys, 2304 Matthews Township Pkwy. – 97.5 • Food Lion (deli), 3609 Matthews-Mint Hill Road – 99.5 • Food Lion (mkt), 3609 Matthews-Mint Hill Road – 99 • Genghis Grill, 9727 E. Independence Blvd. – 95 • McAlister’s Deli, 2217 Matthews Township Pkwy. – 97 • Mr. Tokyo, 10412 E. Independence Blvd. – 86 • Outback, 9623 E. Independence Blvd. – 91.5 • Publix (meat market), 3110 Fincher Farm Road – 100 • Que Onda Tacos, 3022 Weddington Road – 95 • Red Bowl Asian Bistro. 3122 Fincher Farm Road – 91.5 • South 21, 11450 E. Independence Blvd. – 97.5 • Tropical Bakery And Cafe, 11100 Monroe Road – 95 • Yanni Bistro, 131 E. John St. – 96 • Zoe’s Kitchen, 2309 Matthews Township Pkwy. – 95 Monroe • Cafe Shush, 4209 Old Charlotte Hwy. – 97 • Carniceria Morelos, 1510 Miller St. – 95 • Food Lion (meat), 2118 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 100 • Food Lion (produce), 2118 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 98.5 • Food Lion (deli), 2118 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 96.5 • Hathaways, 1310 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 99.5 • Koumi Express,2259 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 100 • Taco Bell, 2104 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 99.5 • The Sea Hut, 354 E. Franklin St. – 97 Pineville • Captain D’s, 10601 Centrum Pkwy. – 94 • Dave & Busters, 11049 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 96.5 • Longhorn Steakhouse, 10605 Centrum Pkwy. – 96 Stallings • Harris Teeter (deli), 15080 Idlewild Road – 97.5 • Harris Teeter (meats), 15080 Idlewild Road – 97.5 • Smoothie King, 15080 Idlewild Road – 99 • Harris Teeter (deli), 7800 Stevens Mill Road – 99 • Harris Teeter (produce), 7800 Stevens Mill Road – 97 Waxhaw • BP/Fill Good, 2538 Cuthbertson Road – 96 • Domino’s, 3901 Providence Road – 99.5 • Emmet’s Social Table, 401 E. South Main St. – 98 Weddington • Poppyseeds Bagels, 13645 Providence Road – 97

Page 4B • The Weekly • Jan. 28, 2022

JazzArts Charlotte offers Latin ensemble CHARLOTTE – JazzArts Charlotte announces a free Latin Jazz Ensemble that is open to middle and high school student musicians. This is a unique opportunity for students grades 7-12 to study a facet of jazz that combines the traditional components of jazz with the Latin Jazz genre including classic repertoire, clave rhythm and Latin jazz

history. lifelong lessons and values The program will be led through music, includby Latin Jazz teaching art- ing leadership, teamwork, ists, including educator/ self-confidence, discipline trumpeter Julio Jeri, M.M. and respect. and world-renowned ethThese weekly sessions nomusicologist, Afro-Cu- will be held Thursday eveban drumming and Latin nings, Feb. 24 to May 26, Jazz Music specialist John- at VAPA Center, located ny Conga. 700 N. Tryon St. uptown. Nuestro Tiempo will Middle and high school The New York Times Syndication Sales Corporation bring students together to New student musicians with at 620 Eighth Avenue, York, N.Y. 10018 celebrate diversity of music least one year of instrumenFor Information Call: 1-800-972-3550 Release Thursday, July 11, (woodwind, 2019 and culture,For while teaching tal experience

Crossword ACROSS

27 Place to buy paint

1 Unrefined 6 Coffee bar offering 11 Painter van Eyck 14 Navajo dwelling made of logs and mud 15 ___ Bell (Emily Brontë pen name) 16 Word with single or fair 17 Direct-tocustomer beef retailer 19 1952 and 1994 Olympics locale: Abbr. 20 Cover over, as a wall 21 Remove, as a name tag 23 Busy beaver 24 Rejections 26 Go one better than

31 Spirited horse 34 Upscale hotel amenity 37 Now and for always 39 Demolition aid 40 Calaverite or sylvanite 43 Memory unit 44 Coated, in a way 46 City NE of Manchester 48 Hawaiian entree, for short 49 Ones playing the numbers? 52 Big brand with an oval logo 54 Ticket datum 55 Something you might write an article on 59 More daft 63 Field a kickoff 65 Subject of the 1962 Nobel Prize in Medicine

ANSWER TO PREVIOUS PUZZLE A T O N C E L A N D L A W

C A V E R N

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S E R E N A D A P E C I D R A E F A S A D Y M E L O M A

F R U G A L I C E D I N

Q U I L T E D S T E V I E

V A L E S A B L A R E

C E L T M C A G A R R A O W N O N W Y E U T K O

O N E H I T J D P O W E R

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T A L I P E L A M R O I E N S N D E T R E O I P T

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66 Performer with a weapon 68 Samuel Beckett’s “Endgame” has one 69 Mailing category for reduced postage 70 Very little 71 “___-haw!” 72 Name on a “Citizen Kane” poster 73 Things to run or pass DOWN 1 Set of keys, maybe 2 Beau 3 Slack-jawed 4 Hot and dry 5 Lose one’s cool 6 Underground networks 7 Cry repeated at the start of the 1987 dance hit “Hot Hot Hot” 8 Keep time with the beat, maybe 9 Jack up 10 Land, building or machine 11 NASA spacecraft orbiting Jupiter 12 Beginning 13 ___ ball 18 Text message status 22 Good soil 25 Labrador retriever or Alaskan malamute, notably 28 Lose one’s cool 29 In ___ (embryonic) 30 Individually

brass, percussion, rhythm section and vocals) are encouraged to participate. Auditions for the program are on Feb. 10 and 17. The workshop is free for all students, with scholarships made possible by program sponsors, Blue Cross Blue Shield NC and the Arts & Science Council. “We have dreamed of launching this program

Edited by Will Shortz 1

24 27 35

26 29

37 40

54 61

43 46

49 52

31 38

19 21

No. 0606

55 63

PUZZLE BY FRED PISCOP

32 Like much of Chile 33 Agrees to “make things interesting” 34 Goblet feature 35 Visitor to King Mongkut 36 The Aggies of the N.C.A.A. 38 Bank 41 Discontinued 42 Abstract Expressionist Krasner

45 Helpful thing to have on hand?

58 Mints with Retsyn

59 Its beaches begin five answers in this 50 River to the Dead puzzle Sea 60 “There was a 51 Going “Wow, time …” wow, wow!” 61 Still life subject 53 ___ clam 62 Some retina (mollusk found cells off the coast of California) 64 Closing credits heading 56 Typesetters’ measures 67 Feature on a Spanish map 57 Javelin, e.g. 47 Perfumer’s extract

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.

for several years,” JazzArts Charlotte CEO Lonnie Davis said. “JazzArts Charlotte is truly thrilled to have these amazing partners share our vision for expanding our service to the community with such a special opportunity.” With space limited, an audition is required to participate. Register for an audition at www.thejazzarts. org/education.

Kid Rock is coming CHARLOTTE –Kid Rock will kick off the 24-city Bad Reputation Tour on April 6 in Indiana. The tour swings by Charlotte on June 17 at PNC Music Pavilion. He’ll follow that up with a show June 18 at Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek in Raleigh. He has sold more than 30 million records, fueled by hits ”Bawitdaba,” “Cowboy,” “Picture” and “All Summer Long.” Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Jan. 28 at www.ticketmaster. com.

LOUD&LIVE Jan. 28 Amos’: Pinkest Floyd Hickory Tavern (Copper): Jukebox Rehab Moochies: Groove Machine Southern Range: Glen Murschel Trail House: 70s Kids Solid Gold Tribute Band Visulite: Glide STP

Jan. 29

Jan. 29 Amos’: Third Eye Evening Muse: Ultrafaux Ensemble Hickory Tavern (Providnece): Unknown Artist Moochies: Poison’us Neighborhood Theatre: I Set My Friends on Fire Southern Range: Sticks & Stones Stooges: Action Jaxxon; Next O’ Kin Trail House: Shotgun Saints Treehouse Vineyards: Karaoke Visulite: Indecision

Jan. 30

Jan. 30 Home Brew: Still Pondering

Jan. 31 Jan. 31 Amos’: Wolves in the Throne Room Evening Muse: Open mic Feb. 1

Feb. 1 Fillmore: Yungblud

Feb. 2 Feb. 2 Ovens: Joss Stone; Corinne Bailey Rae Pour 64: Music Bingo Feb. 3 Feb. 3 DreamChaser’s: Open mic/Taplow Evening Muse: Brittney Spencer Middle James: Music Bingo Neighborhood Theatre: 49 Winchester Trail House: Music Bingo Feb. 4 Feb. 4 Amos’: Dave Koons and the Koyotes Hickory Tavern (Copper): The Parks Brothers Moochies: Bootleg Aces Neighborhood Theatre: Lost Dog Street Band

Stooges: Unknown Artist Trail House: Evenflow Visulite: Pluto Gang

Feb. 5 Amos’: Departure Evening Muse: Mykal Kilgore Fillmore: Subtronics Hickory Tavern (Providence): The Parks Brothers Home Brew: MaryAnn Moochies: Flashback Band Neighborhood Theatre: Night in Rio Pineville Tavern: BAD Generation Pour 64: Kris Anderson Southern Range: Even the Losers Stooges: Mother Trucker Visulite: Mans Jam Waxhaw Taphouse: 485

Venues Charlotte Amos’: Evening Muse: 3227 N. Davidson St. Fillmore: 820 Hamilton St. Hickory Tavern (Copper): 12210 Copper Way Hickory Tavern (Providnece): 11504 Providence Road Neighborhood Theatre: 511 E 36th St. Ovens: 2700 E. Independence Blvd. Visulite: 1615 Elizabeth Ave. Indian Trail Trail House: 6751 Old Monroe Road Mint Hill Pour 64: 4410 Mint Hill Village Stooges: 13230 Albemarle Road Monroe Home Brew: 215 S. Main St. Southern Range: 151 S. Stewart St. Treehouse Vineyards: 301 Bay St. Pineville Middle James: 400 N. Polk St. Pineville Tavern: 314 N. Polk St. Stallings Moochies: 15060 Idlewild Road Waxhaw DreamChaser’s: 115 E. North Main St. Waxhaw Taphouse: 110 McDonald St.

The Weekly • Jan. 28, 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.

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE BURIAL PLOTS AT SHARON MEMORIAL Section 11D, Last Supper, Lot 211 Space 1 Only Section 11D, Last Supper, Lot 212 Spaces 1 & 2 Current rate at cemetery is $4,595 per space, Willing to sell for $2,000 ENTOMBMENT RIGHTS AT SHARON MEMORIAL PARK Section E, Crypt BB/605 1/2 BB (Tandem Crypt) Current Rate is $18,995 Willing to sell for $8,000 Deed Transfer of $295.00 to each new purchaser. Contact Gary at 704-847-4832

HELP WANTED SOFTWARE ENGINEER II, F/T, AT TRUIST (Multiple Openings) (Charlotte, NC) Deliver technically complex solutions. Perform system integration support for all project work. Consult & partner w/ the business product owners to understand the end goal & offer solutions & recommendations during the dsgn. Must have Bach’s deg in Comp Sci, Comp Engg, or related tech’l field. Must have 4 yrs of exp in s/ware engg or IT Consulting positions performing/utilizing the following: applying in-depth knowl in info systems & ability to identify, apply, & implmt IT best practices; understanding of key business processes & competitive strategies related to the IT function; planning & managing projects & solving complex problems by applying best practices; providing direction & mentor less exp’d teammates; & utilizing exp w/: SOAP UI; GIT; Maven; JavaScript, Angular; HTML; & Java. Email resume w/ cvr ltr to: Paige.Whitesell@Truist.com (Ref. Job No. R0051376) PATENT MANAGER & ENGINEER LIAISON FOR DENTSPLY SIRONA in Charlotte, NC. Using your experience w/medical devices & intellectual property management. incl. perform. patentability, validity, infringement, freedom to operate, patent landscapes & patent portfolio analysis using Patbase, Questal Orbit, Micropatent, Thomson Innovation will lead the Consumables & Implants Product Group Patent Review Commit. be responsible for draft. refine & submit of patent apps & recommend patent filings & strategies w/inside/outside counsel & R&D; review R&D projects & patent coverage, new product proposals & apps &

organize IP content. Master’s in Biomedical Engineering & 2 yrs. of exp. req’d. Resume to Alexia.Romero@ dentsplysirona.com QUANTITATIVE RISK ANALYST Assist the Investment Risk Management function with on-going support and enhancement of the existing market risk infrastructure. Support risk report creation and analytics calculation and integration of risk models through broad projects, including value at risk (VaR), portfolio limits and stress testing, and risk factor analysis. Model and load position data to buy-side risk platforms RiskMetrics, Barra or Axioma using proprietary tools and perform quality control of upstream and downstream data and loading processes while utilizing MS SQL Server. Perform risk analysis using factor models, building quantitative risk tools and supporting risk research to explain key risk exposures that drive investment performance for our products. Partner with Technology and Operations team on broader firm initiatives. Maintain familiarity with relevant position mapping tools, risk analytics database and support applications and services that interface with thirdparty enterprise-wide risk

management products. Work with vendors and internal associates to fix modeling issues. Apply: Barings, LLC, Taylor Fox, ATTN: TF-JG, 300 South Tryon Street, Suite 2500, Charlotte, NC, 28202. INTEGRATION APPLIANCE, INC. (DBA INTAPP, INC.) SEEKS THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS IN CHARLOTTE, NC: SENIOR SOLUTIONS ARCHITECT (IA100): Work across teams, functions and product lines. Own architecture and solution for a cohesive platform. Bach+5 yrs exp/Master’s+3 yrs exp. Job code IA100 SOFTWARE ENGINEERING MANAGER (IA102): Lead the technical design of our products, from initial versions through maturity. Bach+5 yrs exp/Master’s+3 yrs exp. Job code IA102 DIRECTOR, INFORMATION SECURITY (IA104): Understand security landscape in general and business environment and requirements. Bach+5 yrs exp. Employer will accept 3 or 4 yr Bach. Job code IA104. SENIOR TECHNICAL SERVICES ENGINEER (IA105): Develop, enhance, and maintain the Intapp Integration Services (IIS) platform and the integrations created upon it. Bach+5 yrs

exp/Master’s+3 yrs exp. Job code IA105. SENIOR DEVOPS ENGINEER (IA106): Work on assigned Epics around common monitoring and logging across Azure and AWS. Master’s+3 yrs exp/Bach+5 yrs exp. May telecommute anywhere in the U.S. Job code IA106 Send resumes to HR at intapproles@intapp.com, must refer to job title and job code. CAMSO USA, INC. IN CHARLOTTE, NC SEEKS AN IT SOLUTION ARCHITECTURE SPECIALIST – SALES to master the business process integration for Pre-Sales, Marketing, Market Intelligence and Service Fulfillment sub-processes throughout multiple systems, including but not limited to SAP, SAP PI, Salesforce.com and Business Intelligence. Teleworking is acceptable within a reasonable distance from worksite location. Send resume to Megan Montague at 8215 Forest Point Blvd., Suite 300, Charlotte, NC 28273 or via email at megan.montague@ michelin.com. Reference job title and worksite location.

Page 6B • The Weekly • Jan. 28, 2022