Indian Trail Weekly Jan. 17, 2020 by Charlotte Media Group

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Indian Trail

Trouble in town hall

Town manager under investigation, placed on paid administrative leave, 2A

BY THE UNION COUNTY WEEKLY

Friday, Jan. 17, 2020 • Vol. 1 • No. 2

Sadek envisions downtown sports stadium by Kayla Berenson kayla@cmgweekly.com

Mayor Michael Alvarez wants to continue getting citizen input. He's also focused on transportation, water and smart growth. ITW file photo

Alvarez looks ahead Mayor excited for third term by Kayla Berenson kayla@cmgweekly.com

INDIAN TRAIL – Mayor Michael Alvarez is excited to continue serving the community. Alvarez has served as mayor since 2011. He wants to continue to give back to a community that he believes has many strengths. “If you want to know the strength of Indian Trail, Indian Trail is the strength of Indian Trail,” Alvarez said. “It has great people, it’s a great melting pot, we have great businesses and great organizations that help the town. I just can’t imagine living anywhere else and I want to continue to try my best to give back to the community that gives my family a place to live and be a voice for as many people as possible.” Alvarez said his biggest goal for the new term is to continue bringing the community together. He said an important part of how the town government functions is input from the residents. “It takes everybody’s input to create the community you want to live in,” Alvarez said. When residents give Alvarez their input, he wants to relay the input to the council so that they can make the best decisions possible that benefit both the residents and the town in the long haul. “My hope would be that the council is forward-looking, not just five or 10 years, but 50 years into the future,” Alvarez said. “How are we going to impact our residents?” While Alvarez said he is always excited to work with the board, but he's especially excited for this board because it includes commissioners with different areas of experience. The board is comprised of Todd Barber, Shirley Howe, Marcus McIntyre, Mike Head and Jerry Morse. “Together, they have a dynamic that comes from every angle you could possibly think of to hopefully complete a circle that creates a good, cooperative working government that is for the people,” Alvarez said. One challenge the board will need to take on, Alvarez said, is the roads in Indian Trail, especially Monroe Road.

INDIAN TRAIL – The town could have a stadium fit for a National Football League or Major League Soccer team. Town Manager Patrick Sadek said the future stadium would be built around the Chestnut Square Park artificial turf. He said it would accommodate the NFL and meets FIFA standards for a soccer stadium. The only thing missing is funding. The town hopes to

find a buyer to purchase naming rights for the future stadium, which could cost between $20 million and $30 million and would pay for construction. Then, town staff would present the proposed stadium to town council to vote on. “It’s great brand exposure,” Communications Coordinator Abbey Ball said. “We already get thousands of visitors as it is now, let alone if we would be able to add a stadium and parking with the apartments and hotel. It would just be total brand awareness supporting

Sadek

Ball

a local project and good for branding.” Sadek said the future stadium would add to the town’s growing sports culture. The downtown area includes Carolina Courts, the Mecklenburg Swim Association Olympic training pool, tennis courts see STADIUM, Page 3A

The Carolina Panthers helped the town celebrate the opening of an artificial turf field Oct. 21 at Chestnut Square Park. Town leaders say the field can be further enhanced by encasing it with a stadium. Kayla Berenson/ITW photo

INDIAN TRAIL'S 100

BIGGEST NEWSMAKERS OF THE 2010S We flipped through dozens of pages of Union County Weekly to find 100 newsmakers that made Indian Trail memorable from 2010 to 2019.

Sam Howell, seen here as a high school junior in 2017, had already completed 406-680 passes for 6,803 yards and 73 touchdowns and rushed 152 times for 635 yards and 19 touchdowns in his first two years as the starting quarterback at Sun Valley. ITW file photo Right: Superintendent Andrew Houlihan toured 10 Union County schools, including Indian Trail Elementary School, during his first school day in the district. ITW file photo

Business

Kelly Barnhardt: She was Indian Trail’s economic development director until the Matthews Chamber of Commerce hired her 2017 as executive director. Holly Bennett: Opened The Rage Room in 2018 for people to break stuff. Tom & Travis Caudle: The father-son duo opened Sweet Union Brewing in 2017. Paul Collins: Broke the seal on Doodle Sasser Distillery, a new whiskey operation, in 2018. Scott Fisher: Fisher Textiles broke ground on a $4.5M headquarters. Pat Kahl: Under her leadership, the Union County Chamber of Commerce went through a rebranding. Dennis Moser: The developer continued to build onto Sun Valley Commons, including a movie theater. He tried to add a hotel & industrial uses. Mackenzie Moser: Pitched a live-work-play project in Indian Trail in 2019. Chris Platé: Named NC Economic Developer of the Year in 2016, he sought to build industrial & retail in Indian Trail. Ian Steedman: Announced plans for Strikers Soccer Center in 2018.

Below: Principal Gina Chisum stands with fifth-grader De'aren Coleman prior to the Indian Trail Christmas Parade in 2018. Photo courtesy of Indian Trail

Education

Rick Calloway: Led Metrolina Christian Academy throughout the decade, building it into one of the state's largest Christian schools. Gina Chisum: Indian Trail Elementary School principal was grand marshal of IT Christmas see NEWSMAKERS, Page 4A

see ALVAREZ, Page 5A

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Page 2A • Indian Trail Weekly • Jan. 17, 2020

IN THE KNOW PHOTO OF THE WEEK STAY CONNECTED • Instagram: @itncweekly • Twitter: @itncweekly • Like us on Facebook • Web: www.unioncounty weekly.com • E-edition: issuu.com/car olinaweeklynewspapers

How do you like your coffee? Hot, cold or loaded with bags of sugar? Next week we’ll look at some of Union County’s hottest coffee joints. Lee Noles/ITW photo

PUBLISHER Adrian Garson adrian@cmgweekly.com

TWEETS OF THE WEEK

BUSINESS MANAGER Rebecca Jensen rjensen@cmgweekly.com

• “Words can’t describe who Luke Kuechly is as a person, friend, and teammate. We have shared countless memories together both on the field and away from it. I feel honored to be his friend and I’ll always appreciate the impact he has had on my life. Love you buddy” – Greg Olsen (@ gregolsen88) • In 3 and 1/2 years w/ @UCPS_MonroeNC I’ve never missed a full BOE meeting, missed almost a full week of work, or been MIA from social media until this past week. This flu/virus is legit! TY to our Cabinet Staff and BOE for leading the way in my absence! #TeamUCPS – Andrew G. Houlihan (@AGHoulihan)

MANAGING EDITOR Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com NEWS EDITOR Karie Simmons karie@cmgweekly.com SPORTS EDITOR Andrew Stark andrew@cmgweekly.com

MOST POPULAR STORIES • Commissioner Aikmus addresses fake news regarding rising water, sewer rates • Town manager shares vision for Indian Trail’s future • Fun center bums out some neighbors • Townhomes with ground-floor commercial could develop in downtown • Breaking down the 2020 ballot

CONTENT PRODUCER Kayla Berenson kayla@cmgweekly.com

UPCOMING EDITIONS

ADVERTISING Charlotte Conway Kate Kutzleb Maya Cann adsales@cmgweekly.com

ART DIRECTOR Kylie Sark art@cmgweekly.com

• Jan. 24: Arts & Entertainment • Feb. 14: Summer Camps • Feb. 21: Thrive Over 55 • Feb. 28: Arts & Entertainment

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Town manager says he was put on administrative leave without reason by Kayla Berenson kayla@cmgweekly.com

INDIAN TRAIL – Town Manager Patrick Sadek has been placed on paid administrative leave by town council as of Jan. 13. The town’s communications coordinator, Abbey Ball, said the council unanimously voted in a closed session Monday evening to place Sadek on paid leave for an investigation regarding a “confidential personnel-related manner.” Ball said the email also revealed the council hired an independent, third-party investigator with no relation to anyone at town hall. The investigation is expected to last between two and three weeks. No further information was given to town staff. The investigation comes just two months after the council unanimously approved Nov. 12 to extend Sadek’s contract two years from the original end date and increase his salary by 8% starting December 2019. Sadek said when he got to work on Jan. 14, he saw an email from Mayor Pro Tem Marcus McIntyre regarding the decision to place him on a leave of absence. “They did not even give me a reason of what the investigation is about,” Sadek said. “I only received an email from Marcus McIntyre that said I’m on a leave of absence for two weeks and to hand in my things.” Sadek handed in his badge and his keys to town hall. He was told town attorney Karen Wolter would send him a letter with more information. As of Jan. 15, Sadek said he has not received a letter.

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This is not the first time a council has had a dispute with a town manager. Before Sadek, the council fired Scott Kaufhold. In 2015, tensions arose with Joe Fivas, who ended up resigning from his position. Though previous town managers have been investigated, Sadek did not see this coming. He and his staff have received praised in many town meetings. For the next two weeks, Sadek will await the results of the investigation. “I’m 58 years old and I have a family to support,” Sadek said. “Put yourself in my shoes. I have medical conditions I have to attend to and they could take away my insurance.” Mayor Michael Alvarez and McIntyre declined to comment. This is a developing story.

We're increasing coverage of 55-and-older issues Managing Editor

February 13th, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

After months of praise from the Indian Trail Town Council, Town Manager Patrick Sadek worries about his job after he was put on administrative leave. ITW file photo

wo things stuck with me while taking notes during a meeting Jan. 9 at Mint Hill Town Hall. One, that foot-long meatball sub I ate an hour prior to the meeting is really starting to create some embarrassing noises that I'm sure other people can hear. Two, Mike Davis, director of land development at Epcon Communities, said something interesting about the people that live in the homebuilder's 55-and-older communities. “Our buyers support local businesses, restaurants and services nearby,” Davis said. “They typically will donate more time to charities and organizations.” The same could be said of people that read our newspaper. People generally consume Indian Trail Weekly because they have a genuine interest in the community. They either have the time to read it or make the time to read it. Residents with access but choose not to pick up the newspaper may be too engaged with work or play, do a lot of traveling, don't like reading or just don't care. No hard feelings. As the staff continues to gain our bearings

More senior news Traditionally, we have put news in the A section and sports in the B section. We've also reinforced the B section with the crossword puzzle, classifieds, music listings and a calendar. Every once in a while, we have to use the B section for special topics like back to school, summers camps and home improvement. We usually combine news and sports in the A section when this happens. A couple of years ago, Stone Theaters began sponsoring a monthly Arts & Entertainment section that we have used to spotlight artists and happenings around the region. The A&E section returns for the Jan. 24 edition. This year, we're putting more emphasis on covering issues that appeal to readers ages 55 and older. Starting this week, we'll have a monthly section, called Thrive Over 55. This ties in with our biannual Thrive Over 55 Senior Expo, an event in which we bring companies and agencies that serve older adults across the region under one roof. We also publish a special edition on the day of the expo with senior-focused content. The next next expo will take place from 9 a.m. to noon March 20 at Christ Covenant Church, 800 Fullwood Lane, Matthews. We are taking registration by phone (704-8492261) or email (rjensen@cmgweekly.com).

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Indian Trail Weekly • Jan. 17, 2020 • Page 3A

STADIUM (continued from page 1A)

and beach volleyball courts. Also located in Indian Trail is the Extreme Ice Center, which offers ice hockey and figure skating. Sadek said there is no other small town in the Charlotte metropolitan area that offers this many sports in a small place. The design of the future stadium is also unique. The stadium would have 10,000 seats. There would be space below the seating area for small shops, which would only be open on days the stadium had games or events. “You come in and shop, you see what’s happening at the stadium,” Sadek said. “You come to the stadium, before and after, you can shop.” Sadek said because the town’s revenue

comes from property taxes, having shops as part of the stadium would further Indian Trail’s economic development. The future stadium would also be located near the proposed LYNX Silver Line stop in Downtown Indian Trail, which would be the last stop in Union County. Sadek said he thinks this will attract light rail riders to spend more time in the town. “If someone gets in to Indian Trail at five and there is a game going on, they will probably go in and watch the game,” Sadek. “And they will shop in Indian Trail and maybe grab a bite to eat in Indian Trail.” Sadek believes a stadium will put Indian Trail on the map, making the town competitive in Union County. Sadek said town staff recently met with representatives from the Carolina Panthers to showcase its stadium plans. Ball

said the representatives were “very excited and very impressed” with the design. Indian Trail has a lot to offer for a brand looking to sponsor the building of a stadium, Ball said. “Indian Trail didn’t have a lot going on for a long time,” Ball said. “Now, people are always shocked when they drive through and see what is going on. We are one of the fastest-growing communities in Union County. We’re the largest in Union County and new things are coming every day: the hotel, apartments, family fun centers, restaurants, shops. It really is a destination area right outside of Charlotte.” Sadek said town staff has submitted the plan to the NFL and MLS but has not heard back yet. “We want to imitate big players out there in our small town,” Sadek said.

This Indian Trail field could one day bear the name of a very strong corporate brand in town or beyond. Kayla Berenson/ITW photo

School board member wants to cut red tape regarding water rates by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

MONROE – Even Union County Public Schools is bracing for the impact of higher water and sewer fees on its budSides get. The county recently approved a 15.5% water and sewer rate increase effective Feb. 1. Another 15.5% increase takes effect Jan. 1, 2021. The school district is the second-largest consumer of water and sewer in the county. With the district soon entering joint discussions with the county regarding next year's fiscal year budget, school board member Gary Sides wanted to give staff authority to negotiate a long-range water and sewer contract with a fixed rate. “I think it is only appropriate since funding of some of our operating funds does come directly from the county,” he said. “It makes no sense going round and round chasing our tail. … The county has to pay us to pay them for the increase.” He mentioned after negotiating terms with the county, district staff would return to the appropriate committee and the board for approval. But school board member Kathy Heintel told Sides his request should be vetted by the finance committee first. Sides replied he thought

the request was time-sensitive given the county's intent to soon meet with the district for a joint budget meeting. Still, Sides didn't get the second to his motion. However, he was successful in getting the request on the finance committee agenda. The committee convenes Jan. 28. The next school board meeting is Feb. 4. “Instead of Peter paying Paul, let's just have a contract,” Sides said. “I resist having to increase our budget to ask the county to fund something like that that goes right back to them.” The school board's finance committee discussed the water and sewer rate increase at its Dec. 17 meeting for about three minutes. Heintel chairs the committee. Sides is a member. Chief Financial Officer Shanna McLamb shared with the committee that the rate changes would amount to approximately $65,000 this year and $245,000 next year as a result. The district already pays upwards of $1 million in water and sewer. “Utility budgets – you can't budget these to the penny,” McLamb told the committee. Later in the meeting, Superintendent Andrew Houlihan told the committee that the county wanted to have joint conversations with the district in late January/early February and the early spring.

Cemetery ordinance baffles town leaders by Kayla Berenson

kayla@cmgweekly.com

INDIAN TRAIL – Town Manager Patrick Sadek asked the Indian Trail Town Council Jan. 7 to adopt an ordinance that would prevent people from spreading ashes over existing graves in the town-owned cemetery. Sadek said a request to spread ashes came from a funeral home. He immediately advised against it, prompting the ordinance. “If we open that door, we just can’t do that,” Sadek told the council. “There is a big liability. The request was a bit odd.” Council members thought the request seemed “creepy.” Many council members, and town attorney Karen Wolter, did not know the town owned a cemetery in the first place. “The rules are effective on

the town-owned cemetery, so any church or private-owned cemetery would not be subject to many of the rules and regulations we have here,” Wolter said. “But this is how we are governing our own cemetery.” According to Adam McLamb, who is the town’s public works director, the town cannot sell the cemetery. Though council members were confused and surprised about the ordinance, Mayor Michael Alvarez said he thought it was a good idea. “It gives good direction to those that need to place a loved one there and there are rules that they can abide by because sometimes, you can run into an issue like that unusual one,” Alvarez said. The council voted to adopt the ordinance. “It’s a dead issue now,” Alvarez joked.

The Union County Board of Commissioners held a joint meeting with Board of Governors of the Union County Water and Sewer District on Dec. 2 to discuss increasing rates in order to fund future projects. View the Dec. 2 meeting and others at www.unioncountync.gov/government/boards-and-committees/videos-and-live-stream.

READER REACTS

High density hypocrisy as county commissioners raise water rates by Frank Cappella

Reader submission

On Dec. 2, the Union County Board of Commissioners voted to raise rates on water and sewer a whopping 33%. Increasing water rates will be just one byproduct, as residents of Union County had repeatedly warned commissioners about the dangers of dreadful planning and the fiscal ramifications of uncontrolled, destructive high-density development built upon collapsing infrastructure in western Union County. These warnings to the county and towns of Waxhaw, Indian Trail and Stallings went completely ignored. Now it’s time for residents to start paying up. While Union County residents will be forced to pay this 33% increase, what residents won’t tolerate is blatant hypocrisy. Except for Commissioner Richard Helms, the county and these towns have been playing a high-density shell game with residents. It should be notated that Mr. Helms and Commissioner Stony Rushing voted no to the increase. However, since the Dec. 2 vote, Mr. Rushing has excoriated his fellow commissioners and lamenting that Union County residents will be burdened with this massive rate increase. Residents would like to point out a few issues regarding Commissioner Rushing. First and most obvious, Mr. Rushing has openly admitted to being one of the biggest advocates of this ruinous high-density development push. High-density building is designed to centralize usage and be efficient when implemented correctly, with supporting infrastructure. Conversely, irresponsible high-density development and terrible long-term planning, like here in Union County, can lead to things like higher rates and many other issues. As just one

HIGH SCHOOL

ATHLETE Waxhaw 1315 N. Broome St. 704-243-2024

Matthews 11100 Monroe Rd. 704-841-2025

OF THE

WEEK

example, it is common knowledge among residents that Union County roads are totally failing, overrun with traffic and in no position to support any type of high-density development. To that point, our commissioners and these town representatives fully understood the NC Department of Transportation was dead broke during their high-density push. So broke, that the agency needed a bailout from Raleigh. Months ago, this insolvency led to DOT canceling many crucial road projects throughout Union County. Adding to the insult, according to NCDOT, of the 100 worst roads in our entire region, nearly 50 of them are here in Union County! If the county had known for years that water supply and cost issues were on the horizon, why didn’t these commissioners put their foot down long ago, do their part, communicate with these towns and help stop this high-density push that has destroyed western Union County? How about the mantra that current taxpayers must now pay this exorbitant new rate to accommodate for future residents? Why wasn’t the rate increase from the drought, in which residents are still paying, viewed as an ominous warning sign? Whatever the excuse or hypothesis, it’s too late now. In November, Mr. Rushing led commissioners to approve one of the most controversial high-density projects ever to be built in western Union County, as commissioners voted to approve a massive 615 home high-density development within the Wesley Chapel area. Commissioner Helms voted no. These commissioners didn’t care about things like water supply, rate hikes, crumbling roads, intolerable traffic, safety and increased localized flooding when they happily voted to approve this monster project. Residents are puzzled by Mr. Rushing’s outrage this month,

championing the voices of worried residents regarding rate increases and infrastructure damage due to high-density development. But it was just last November that he enthusiastically led commissioners to bulldoze over these same concerned residents, silenced their voices, and allowed one of the largest high-density builders anywhere in the Southeast to add to our infrastructure misery. Sorry, you can’t have it both ways. The commissioners and these town leaders knew infrastructure was failing in western Union County, knew that NCDOT was broke, knew critical road improvement projects had been canceled, knew of impending water supply issues and knew these types of high-density projects would lead to much bigger problems in the future. Consequences be damned and here we are with a 33% rate increase. Residents will not fall for local political blame-game tactics from anyone, any longer. All these politicians blame the state, NCDOT, the schools, each other, but never take personal responsibility for their part in this high-density mess. Finally, the county and these towns won’t tell you this, but Union County Public Schools has repeatedly sent “high-density impact statements” to these representatives, warning that student capacity numbers are becoming alarming again in western Union County. These warnings should mean that any county or municipal elected official who advocates for high-density development, either to offset this massive rate increase or as simple policy, must be called out publicly. Incompetent growth equates to no growth, only incompetent growth is much more expensive to the taxpayers. Wake up Union County residents, you are being played!

MADDIE DILLINGER CUTHBERTSON BASKETBALL Dillinger scored the 1,000th point of her career in a Cavs win last week. Dillinger is averaging a team-best 13.6 points for the Cavs, who have started the season 15-1. Are you a coach and know an incredible athlete you’d like us to feature? email us at Andrew@cmgweekly.com

Page 4A • Indian Trail Weekly • Jan. 17, 2020

NEWSMAKERS (continued from page 1A)

Parade in 2018. Ed Davis: After leaving his post as UCPS superintendent in 2012, he served as a professor at Wingate University until his retirement in 2019. Kate Earp: Principal celebrated 10 years of Poplin Elementary in 2018-19. Mary Ellis: She joined UCPS as superintendent in 2012, but retired in 2016 after criticism of her association with an LLC became public. Kim Fisenne: UCPS's 201213 Assistant Principal of the Year became principal of Porter Ridge High School in 2018. Rosaline Green: She chaired the school board of Union Preparatory as the charter school was approved for opening in 2015. Bashawn Harris: He became principal for Porter Ridge Middle in 2012 & Porter Ridge High in 2014 before his promotion in 2018 to district leadership. Andrew Houlihan: UCPS became more social media savvy and secure after he became superintendent in 2016. Jerome McKibben: His enrollment projections shaped Union County Public Schools. Brian Patience: He won Assistant Principal of the Year in 201415 for his work at Porter Ridge Middle School. Shaun Poole: He served as principal of Sun Valley High School leading up to the 2016 bond. He left in 2017 to become principal at a Harrisburg school Sharon Rodgers: Partnered with Scott Spencer to develop oneschool, two-campus concept of Shiloh Valley Primary and Elementary schools. Scott Spencer: He won UCPS Principal of the Year for 2015-16 for his work at Shiloh Elementary. Elaine Templeton: The chef taught culinary classes at Porter Ridge in 2014-15 as UCPS's first culinary arts academy.

Faith/Nonprofits

Keith Adams: His agency, Common Heart, gave out tax help & turkeys. He championed literacy when Literacy Council closed in 2019. Jack Campbell: He served as grand marshal of the Christmas Parade in 2017. He served in Vietnam, as well as provided leadership to the local VFW Post. Annie Beth Donahue: She launched Signposts Ministries to help families of children with special needs. Jennifer Gordon: Announced that she'd move the Carolina Waterfowl Rescue from Indian Trail to S.C. after a hurricane in 2018. Larry Helms: Served as grand marshal of Indian Trail Christmas parade in 2019 for his contributions to the community, which include founding a Rotary Club. Cindy Summers: She started Cindy's Hope Chest in 2010 to support women with breast cancer. John Vann Williams: He was grand marshal in the 2016 Fourth of July Parade in honor of 65 years

Keith Adams, executive director of Common Heart, leads a tour group through an expanded warehouse area in 2017. ITW file photos

Town Council members Gary D'Onofrio, Darlene Luther and Mayor Pro Tem Jeff Goodall dedicate Crossing Paths Park in December 2010.

Nina Meadows, of the Union County Public Library, has worked to increase literacy in the community. ITW file photo

as a music minister & 45 years with the Lions Club.

the commission. He ran for the N.C. House campaign in 2016. Dave Drehs: Unsuccessfully ran for commissioner in 2011, 2013 & 2015, but he was appointed in 2014. He sought to bring a Miracle League to town. Gary Evans: The town council mainstay served from August to November 2017 when Mark Wireman resigned from the council. Michael Faulkenberry: Among Mayor Michael Alvarez's top political rivals & was an advocate for public records. Mike Head: He was among four town commissioners elected in 2017. Shirley Howe: The council appointed Howe in 2017 to fill Amy Stanton's vacant seat after years of attending meetings. She was elected in 2017 & 2019. Monty Keistler: He resigned three months after winning one of two unexpired commissioner terms in 2017. Christopher King: King was elected as a commissioner in 2011, but he lost his seat in 2015 after missing meetings. Marcus McIntyre: After 2017 election defeat, he was appointed to the board in 2018 and reelected in 2019. Jerry Morse: Ran for commis-

Government

Rox Burhans: He served as planning director from 2015 to 2019, when he left to serve as planning director of Lancaster County. Eddie Cathey: Union County's sheriff has been calling the shots since 2002. Chase Coble: The 43-year-old sheriff’s captain died unexpectedly in October 2019. Scott Cole: The NCDOT engineer worked with Matthews, Stallings and Indian Trail on the Old Monroe Road widening project. Cindy Coto: Served as county manager from 2010 to 2018, including Union's 175th anniversary in 2017. Joe Fivas: He served as town manager from 2010 to 2015, when he sensed town leaders were heading in a different direction. Scott Kaufhold: He was hired as town manager in 2016. Three council members went rogue in 2017, terminating his contract without the full board. Brian Matthews: The county's planning executive stayed busy working with developers on projects in western Union County. Nina Meadows: She celebrated

the library's 50th anniversary & led its efforts in 2017 to better connect with Union County Public Schools. Patrick Sadek: The engineer became town manager in 2017 & unveiled plans in 2018 for a veterans memorial. Jay Tryon: The parks and recreation director opened an inclusive playground & splash pad in 2018. Mark Watson: Longtime HR director promoted to county manager in 2018 and restructured processes & staff in 2019. Jim Wojtowicz: The finance director was appointed interim town manager after Scott Kaufhold was fired.

Politics (Town)

Michael Alvarez: He became mayor in 2011 & served for the remainder of the decade despite cancer. He advocated for victim’s rights & mental health. Todd Barber: He not only was one of three elected to the commission in 2019 but he was also the leading vote-getter. David Cohn: The leading vote-getter among eight candidates in 2011 & 11 candidates in 2015, he wanted the public to have a vote on new town hall. Gordon Daniels: Clashed with colleagues during his one term on

sioner in 2013 but didn't win. He was among four commissioners elected in 2017. John Quinn: The mayor chose not to run for reelection in 2011, opting to endorse Michael Alvarez. Gary Savoie: He was one of two commissioners elected in 2013, but he lost his seat in 2017. Amy Stanton: Elected in 2015, she resigned in 2017 after firing Town Manager Scott Kaufhold and getting arrested on simple assault charges. David Waddell: He was second top vote-getter in 2011 commissioner race & made national news in 2014 by resigning in Star Trek language of “Klingon.” Mark Wireman: He was one of three elected to commission in 2015, but he didn't finish the term. He compared the town manager's firing to a “witch hunt.” Robert Allen, Gary D'Onofrio, Jeff Goodall, John Hullinger & Darlene Luther: They started the decade as commissioners.

Politics (Beyond Town)

Frank Aikmus: He's served as a county commissioner since 2012. He opted not to add $51.9 million in bonds to election ballot in 2018. see NEWSMAKERS, Page 5A

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Indian Trail Weekly • Jan. 17, 2020 • Page 5A

NEWSMAKERS (continued from page 4A)

Dean Arp: The state legislator was recognized at Crooked Creek Park in 2016 for supporting parks and rec programs. Dan Bishop: With the White House’s support, the state senator won a U.S. House seat in 2019. John Collins: He served as chair of the UCPS school board in 2015 when UCPS dropped its lawsuit against the county over funding. Richard Helms: He was elected to the county commission in 2012 & 2016. He sought better communication with towns. Todd Johnson: He represented the region on the county commission and in the North Carolina Senate. Melissa Merrell: She chaired a school board that approved a five-year strategic plan in 2017 & realigned districts in 2018. Robert Pittenger: Congressman tried to build public support for an idea to turn U.S. 74 into an interstate & pushed for Charlotte to have weather station. Stony Rushing: He returned to the county commission in 2014 and was reelected in 2018. He was second in U.S. House primary in 2019. Marce Savage: She served on the UCPS & N.C. school board but resigned from both amid allegations she was requesting inaccurate expense reports. Jerry Simpson: He won terms as a county commissioner in

2010, 2014 & 2018. Richard Yercheck: He chaired the UCPS school board in 2013 when the district sued Union County over funding.

Sports

Rob Enloe: Coached Sun Valley softball to a 3A state title in 2014, but was convicted in 2019 of indecent liberty with a minor dating back to 1994. Blair Hardin: He charted back-to-back state championship games for Porter Ridge High School in 2011 & 2012. Sam Howell: Area’s best QB changed mind to attend UNC in 2018. Michael Macchiavello: Earned NCAA Championship in wrestling in 2018. Bill Rogers: He retired as AD at Porter Ridge in 2015 after 10 years, a span in which the school won one team & two individual state titles. Lael Rorie: She coached Porter Ridge to its first state title in softball in 2012. R-Truth: Won WWE 24/7 title 25 times this year, as well as the U.S. title. Scott Stein: He left Sun Valley High School's sidelines in 2013 after leading the football team to several winning seasons. Jack Wilton: NCHSAA gave him the Heart of a Champion Award.

Other

Kilah Davenport: Her death inspired legislation for harsher penalties for child abuse. Garland Denny: He fought

The Porter Ridge softball team secured the school's first state title in 2012. Photo courtesy of Lael Rorie

for a stamp that would raise money for PTSD research & treatment. VFW Post 5464 was named in his honor in July 2016. RebeccaAnne Edelman: Lobbied for more health resources for schools in 2018. Ash Haffner: The 16-year-old Porter Ridge student took her own life in 2015, prompting high schools to talk more about bullying. Pete & Sherri Kimbell: They've been lighting up Brandon Oaks with their Christmas lights & helping raise money to

fight cancer since 2012. Landon Knestrick: Kid was in Emmy-nominated ad in 2018 with WWII vet. He secured Pearl Harbor relic in 2019. Daisy Moniz: She appeared on the fourth episode of the MTV show "Catfish," in 2015 in hopes of seeing if her Instagram connection was real. Alayah Nguyen: The Miss Teen NC US acted as honorary mayor in December 2018 and proclaimed an anti-bullying day. Michael O’Neill: Inspired community with poem, “Autism is a Miracle” in 2019.

ALVAREZ (continued from page 1A)

Alvarez wants to ensure Monroe Road continues on track. He hopes the board can advocate giving the residents as much of what they want as opposed to giving the state total control over design. While he doesn’t know how this will be accomplished, he said the board will keep “pounding at” the N.C. Department of Transportation to get their point across in a friendly, yet assertive way. Ensuring the progress of other roads in the area, including U.S. 74 and the arterial roads around it, will also be a priority for Alvarez and his board. Another issue Alvarez wants to tackle is the county-wide water issue. He said county commissioners raised the water rates significantly. “We’d like better clarification on that from the county,” Alvarez said. “Not that it wasn’t needed, but it would be nice to get better clarification why and ensure, as a leader of this community, to ensure that the taxpayers’ money is going to better the project and better the water service for Indian Trail as well as surrounding communities. We have to protect our community tax dollars.” Taxpayer dollars have gone toward the Indian Trail downtown project, which Alvarez said residents can look forward to in the future as it continues to develop. The downtown project is part of the town’s “smart growth.” Alvarez believes bringing more commercial growth to Indian Trail, rather than residential, will benefit the town greatly. “Start to move away from so much housing and look toward the economic growth with corporations that would find our low tax rate and our proximity to Charlotte and our proximity to South Carolina and the highways ideal to bring whatever product they build or whatever call center they might have to provide better paying, career jobs where someone can work in Indian Trail and come here to work. That would be smart

Town attorney to provide open training to council by Kayla Berenson kayla@cmgweekly.com

INDIAN TRAIL – Mayor Pro Tem Marcus McIntyre noticed a need for more in-depth council training in November. During a vote for a rezoning, he and the council learned McIntyre they needed a supermajority of votes to approve it. McIntyre said he did not know this before. This, as well as other circumstances, prompted McIntyre to ask town attorney Karen Wolter to provide more legal and background training to the council. “What I want to ask of her is, are there topics that she sees that could help us, in terms of training or policy, that could help us do our jobs better? To help educate us as to the dos and don'ts … things that come up for rezonings or items that come with ordinances,” McIntyre said. “Because the thing is, we are not attorneys … We are elected officials. We ran for local office and that’s why we’re here. But it will help

Melissa Merrill, of Stallings, has chaired the school board for the past few years. ITW file photo

growth.” He said smart growth would also include pushing for more funds for Union County to repair what is old and “bring it up to standard.” Alvarez wants the town to look at what is economically sound and will benefit the town without draining resources. He said knowing what is happening in the county will also help with smart growth. Another challenge Alvarez has personally faced is his health. He is a cancer survivor and said he is healthy now. He said his only problems are his “battle scars” from radiation and other procedures. “If that’s all I have to deal with, I’m very glad,” Alvarez said. Over Thanksgiving, Alvarez had a hernia and needed to have an operation. He said community members who knew about the operation brought him and his wife meals so they wouldn’t need to cook, even going the length of bringing a full Thanksgiving dinner. He said this affirmed the unity he sees in the town. While there have been and will be challenges, Alvarez is proud of his board’s accomplishments in the last term, which he said included the town’s veterans memorial, the partnership with the NFL and the Carolina Panthers, resident Chuck Denny’s PTSD stamp initiative and the town government’s overall unity compared to previous years. He enjoys many aspects of the mayoral role, like working with students at Union County Public Schools, interacting with community members and making an impact on the town. Giving back to the town is his favorite part. Moving forward, Alvarez said he is excited to see projects come to fruition and frustrations come to an end. He looks forward to seeing traffic alleviate and having workable, accessible, safe roads in the future. “That would be a really nice feeling,” Alvarez said. “Although we don’t have control over those particular items, it’s nice to know that Union County is on the state’s radar once again and is working together.” us when we speak or when we receive information, the way we process it, so that it’s in accordance with the law and what’s expected.” McIntyre proposed to have the training in open sessions before meetings. Wolter was already on board with the idea, especially the opportunity for the public to get involved. “I think this council could be incredibly productive and I think these learning opportunities, which would be conducted in open session, would also be really valuable to the general public to get an understanding of what you all can do, what you’re allowed to do, what you’re not allowed to do, what the planning department can and can’t do, what the public works department does,” Wolter said. “So I think there’s a huge learning opportunity for not just this council, but for the public in general.” She said potential topics could include roles and responsibilities of the council, town manager and staff; council’s role in planning and land use; roles and responsibilities of each department; the procurement process; and any other topics the council thinks are worth discussing. The council was receptive to the idea. Dates for the training sessions will be announced at a later time.

Page 6A • Indian Trail Weekly • Jan. 17, 2020

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SENIOR LIVING Regional Section • Jan. 17, 2020 • Page 1B

Helping people age in place

Epcon hopes to launch more age-restricted housing by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

MINT HILL – Epcon Communities is targeting 21 acres off Idlewild Road for its next 55-and-older neighborhood. The homebuilder envisions 53 homes, a walking trail and a central park area with an outdoor seating area and fire pit. Mike Davis, director of land development at Epcon Communities, shared plans for The Courtyards at Mint Hill with town commissioners before their Jan. 9 meeting to get feedback before submitting official paperwork.

Epcon Communities specializes in building homes for 55-and-older buyers. The company focuses on age-restricted homes, which require that 80% of units have at least one occupant age 55 or older. Davis said age-restricted communities don’t generate as many road trips and make a lesser impact on school enrollment than a traditional neighborhood of single-family homes. Their communities also have low crime rates. “Our buyers support local businesses, restaurants and services nearby,” Davis said. “They typically will donate more time to charities and organizations.”

Mobility & More is one-stop shop

The proposed sketch plan for The Courtyards at Mint Hill is projected Jan. 9 at Mint Hill Town Hall. The 21-acre site is located at 14333 Idlewild Road. Justin Vick/CMG photo

by Andrew Stark andrew@cmgweekly.com

MATTHEWS – Customers find their way into Mobility & More for a variety of reasons, but CEO Jay Buinicky strives to make sure each one has the same experience by the time Buinicky they leave. Buinicky said whether it’s a weekend warrior who has a broken bone or a person in need of a wheelchair, mobility scooter, lift chair or any number of other accessories and gadgets a person may need to make their lives easier, Mobility & More can help. “The younger generation may come to us if they get in an accident, break a leg or they’ll come to us for a knee walker or something like that,” Buinicky said. “For the true senior demographic, they’re aging in place. They’re limited in their mobility, but they want to stay at home for as long as possible. A senior’s number one fear, even before death, is moving into a senior facility. Their goal is to stay at home as long as possible, and we want to help with that. We want to make sure they have all of the products and the simple little lifestyle aids that may help them on a day-to-day basis.” While some of the products used to achieve improved mobility may be the same, the individual story and exact needs are never cookie-cutter, and that’s where Mobility & More shines. “We want to uncover people’s true needs and qualify them for the type of product they’re going to need,” Buinicky said. “Our goal is to kind of hold their hand and make sure they get the right product. “We also want to make sure people understand we’re here to be a resource, and not just for mobility, but for other things as well. People don’t realize we do stair lifts, we have the carriers that go on the back of vehicles so they can transfer their scooters and so many products that make their everyday life easier. We do not just come in and try to sell them something. We want to establish that relationship with them and help them with whatever they are going to need.” Buinicky said the store, which opened last year at 251 N. Trade

Epcon Communities has been active in the Charlotte housing market since 2013. The company has homes available in several communities see HOUSING, Page 4B

grounded in fun

60-and-over adult softball league builds friendships, camaraderie by Andrew Stark andrew@cmgweekly.com

CHARLOTTE – Gerry Gallup said Thursdays have been his favorite day of the week ever since he became a player in the BOOM softball league. The BOOM (Bunch Of Old Men) softball league is entering its 11th season, and it’s a league unlike any other in the Charlotte area. And, best of all, they’re looking for new players this spring. To qualify, players must be at least 60 years old, have a general understanding of the game and be available for the Thursday double-headers that begin at Park Road Park at 10 a.m. sharp. But that’s not all, according to David Jarrett, the man in charge of the league that really appears almost as much a cover for having a good time as it does a softball league. “It’s all about having fun,” he said. “It’s not as competitive as the other two leagues in Carolina Senior Sports. This is laid back, it’s during the day, so you have to be retired to even play it. “We got guys who can barely get to first base. When they get on, we’ll have runners for them – if we have anyone who has enough energy to run again. There’s got to be a lot of guys sitting at home saying, ‘Gosh, this looks like fun. I want to give this a try.’” Gallup said he’d never hit a home run until last season. When he hit it out, his teammates remind him to this day, he was so excited he may have missed a base, but the BOOM league doesn’t take themselves seriously, so maybe he did, maybe he didn’t. There are never any umpires at their games, so it will go down in BOOM folklore forever. When he got back to the dugout, though, that’s when the real

BOOM softball league meets Thursday mornings in south Charlotte for doubleheader games March through November. Players (back from left) Grier Stanford, David Jarrett, Richard Storm, (front from left) Keith Ratliff and Gerry Gallup have so much fun on the field, they often meet for lunch afterwards. Andrew Stark/CMG photo

serious,” Jarrett said. “If you have fun began. “If you do well, guys are going an error or you screw up bad, guys to pat you on the back and tell are going to get a little bit peeved you did well,” Gallup said. “If you about it. Not in BOOM.” Jarrett said he keeps the rosters screw up or if you do too well, as you can see, they’re going to ride at around 16 players, so he hopes you. That’s what I love. It’s all 13 will show. Eleven players are needed to play due to about the camaraderie an extra infielder/ and the fun.” outfielder of the Some of the BOOM players, This is for the guy who’s team’s choice, but they usually including Keith looking for something work out the Ratliff and Grifun to do where you details on the er Stanford, can build friendships fly. play in much and have relationships. After their more competiThat’s really at the heart games, which tive travel teams. of what we do.” run March through The Charlotte November and are di• Keith Ratliff Senior Sports League, vided into two seasons, of which BOOM has formed under, has two other the guys will meet for lunch at BV leagues including travel teams Pub and Pizzeria, where they have and a Tuesday night league that is carved out a deal for a free beer competitive and features 20 teams from owner Haile Placek. with 260 players. “In the other two leagues, it’s see SOFTBALL, Page 3B

“

Want to join BOOM? About 75 people play in the league, but they’d like to grow it to around 100 and expand from four to six teams. They play at Park Road Park at 6220 Park Road, Charlotte. The season costs $30 with an annual $20 membership. Register at https://carolinasr sports.com/ or by contacting BOOM President David Jarrett at 704-577-4521 or jdaviddi ana@bellsouth.net.

see MOBILITY, Page 2B

9 to Try: Council on Aging offers programming for seniors MONROE – The Council on Aging of Union County offers programming throughout the year to enhance the lives of older adults. Here are some of the agency's biggest events through March. Memory Café: Author Talk Frank Morelli, author of "No Sad Songs,” and Senia Owensby, author of “Finishing Well,” participate in a free author discussion and book signing as part of the Council on Aging's monthly Memory Care Cafés program for those with

memory loss and their caregivers. There is no cost to participate, but registration is required. Call 704292-1797 to register. • When: 10 a.m. Jan. 17 • Where: Next Door, 104 Lydia St., Monroe Memory Loss Seminar: Effective Communication Strategies Elizabeth Novak, of the Alzheimer’s Association, will explain how to communicate with those with Alzheimer’s. Learn to decode messages through attitude, tone, facial

expressions and body language. Call 704-292-1797 to register. • When: 10 a.m. Feb. 7 • Where: Next Door, 104 Lydia St., Monroe Black History Month Gene Stowe will discuss the documentary based on his book, “Inherit the Land: Jim Crow meets Miss Maggie’s Will,” for Black History Month He'll talk about the local trial surrounding the will of two sisters see TRY, Page 3B

The Council on Aging in Union County won the 2019 Positive Images of Aging Award by the Southeastern Association of Area Agencies on Aging for its Next Door Group Respite Program. Photo courtesy of Council on Aging

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Page 2B • Regional Section • Jan. 17, 2020

MOBILITY (continued from page 1B)

St. in downtown Matthews as Mobility & More’s second location, has an extensive product line that is in stock and ready for immediate pick-up. The products include mobility aids such as wheelchairs, but also shower safety products, diabetic shoes and accessories, urological supplies, knee walkers, hospital beds CBD products and rollators. “Our goal is to have a variety of things so that we have what they need in stock so they can take off with it that day. That instant gratification is huge,” Buinicky said. “For a senior, they come from old school. They want to walk into a store, sit down on the equipment and test it out. They want to get to know you, shake your hand and know that you’re a professional organization they want to do business with. That’s so important to them, and it’s important to us.”

While Mobility & More has a large inventory and a full warehouse of products, there are times they can’t help. In those times, Buinicky, who is a member of Charlotte Senior Resources, a collaboration of local professionals in the industry, will find someone who can help them. But in most cases, Mobility & More has just what customers need on hand and they are aiming to become a fixture in the community for a long time to come. “We signed five-year lease in the building, but I want to own property one day and maybe expand and update the showroom,” Buinicky said. “I have access to whatever a senior is going to need. My goal is to stay here for as long as we can and be a resource to this community.” Need more information? Visit www.mobility-more.com for the store’s full product listing, call Jay Buinicky at 704-821-7777 or stop by the showroom at 251 N. Trade St. weekdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Indian Trail considers ADA renovations to town hall by Kayla Berenson kayla@cmgweekly.com

INDIAN TRAIL – Indian Trail Town Hall is filled with marble floors, conference rooms, offices, a council chamber and views of downtown. But the building is missing one thing. Mayor Michael Alvarez informed the council at its Jan. 7 meeting that none of the doors in town hall have ADA-accessible buttons, which would automatically open doors for those in wheelchairs trying to get inside. Town hall opened in December 2017. Town Manager Patrick Sadek said when he and his staff reviewed and discussed plans for town hall with a licensed architect, the architect told them the buttons were not a requirement. Still, Sadek recognizes the need for them. “We’ve received comments from some residents that they were using wheelchairs to access the building, so we did do diligent work communicating to the architect,” Sadek said. “He came in twice so far and we did not do anything because the architect told us it’s not required to have that button on the door.” Councilman Jerry Morse asked if the architect would face any legal recourse for

not installing accessible entrances to town hall, but town attorney Karen Wolter said since it is not legally required, the architect probably would not face legal recourse. However, Wolter said adding the buttons is a reasonable request. “It would be an accommodation that would be a reasonable and probably expected access component to any public building, though possibly not legally required under architectural rules,” Wolter said. Installing ADA-accessible buttons would come with a cost, along with the need to remodel part of town hall, according to Sadek. “If we decide to go that route, we need to remove the entire wall for the door,” Sadek said. “That door and those panels cannot be modified, so we need to remove the whole thing and find something else.” Sadek said replacing the wall would also include adding more security. He called the process “the whole nine yards.” Searching for an alternative option, Alvarez asked if any ADA grants would be available to apply for. Sadek said these grants are usually given for sidewalks and ramps outside of buildings, not for accessible doors. Sadek will provide a detailed packet of cost estimates and potential risks at a later date.

The Fine Print

The SECURE Act, explained Dear Attorney, I am 68 years old and have an IRA with what I hope is enough money for me to able to live on comfortably and be able to leave some to my children when I pass away. I know the New Year brings new tax laws, which is always confusing. Lately, I have heard of the “Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement” law but what is it and how may it affect my retirement planning? - An Old Guy Dear Old Guy, The law you are referring to is the SECURE Act, an acronym for the “Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement,” which was passed by Congress in late December 2019 and signed into law by the president on Dec. 20, 2019. Today, many of us have retirement savings in accounts generally referred to as individual retirement accounts, or IRAs. With the passage of the SECURE Act, there will be significant changes to how our retirement savings will be governed after Dec. 31, 2019. This article discusses some of these changes and may not be the final word on how the new law is interpreted and applied. For the individual, these provisions appear to have the most significant impact: 1. Under pre-2020 rules, individuals were required to begin taking distributions from their IRAs when they reached age 70 ½. These distributions are referred to as “Required Minimum Distributions” or “RMDs”. Under the Secure Act, the law raises this age to 72. However, the law only applies to person who turn 70 ½ after Dec. 31, 2019. If you reached 70 ½ before Jan. 1, 2020, then you must take your RMD in 2019, 2020, etc. 2. Under the law before the SECURE Act, a person could leave his/her IRA to a beneficiary who could, in turn, receive distributions from the IRA over the beneficiary’s lifetime. This is referred to as “Stretch IRAs” because the benefit and potential growth in the IRA account could be “stretched” over a younger person’s lifetime. Under the Secure Act, these inherited IRAs must be distributed to the beneficiary within 10 years which may have a significant impact on one’s estate plan. (This should be discussed with your financial planner or estate planning attorney.) There are exceptions for spouses, minor children and certain others. The Secure Act only applies to IRAs inherited in 2020 and beyond. 3. The SECURE Act now permits individuals to contribute to their traditional IRA accounts at any age, as long as the individual

About F. Lee Weaver F. Lee Weaver, Esq. is an estate planning and corporate law attorney at Weaver | Budd, Attorneys at Law. To schedule a consultation with him, call 704-841-0760.

has earned income. Prior to the Secure Act, persons past the age of 70 ½ were prohibited from contributing to their traditional IRAs. 4. The SECURE Act permits new parents to withdraw up to $5000 from an IRA or an employer-sponsored retirement plan to pay for adoption and/or birth expenses. Taxes are still due on the withdrawal pre-tax contributions, but the early withdrawal penalties do not apply to the early withdrawals. There are other changes taking place under the SECURE Act and the ones listed in the article are, obviously, subject to further interpretation and regulation by tax authorities. Hopefully, this article will encourage you to consult with your financial advisor or estate planning attorney about the effect this new law may have on your estate planning, particularly, if your plan involves the disposition of your retirement savings. Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is general in nature and not to be taken as legal advice, nor to establish an attorney-client relationship between the reader and F. Lee Weaver or Weaver | Budd, Attorneys at Law. Submit your questions for The Fine Print to: inquiries@weaverbuddlaw.com

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Regional Section • Jan. 17, 2020 • Page 3B

THINGS TO DO Jan. 17 Tinker Time Preschoolers (ages 0-4) go through “Frozen”-themed sensory bins and activity stations during Tinker Time with Olaf and Friends at the Marshville Library. 704-624-2828 10 a.m.; 414 Hasty St., Marshville Crime BBQ Union County Crime Stoppers holds its annual barbecue at the Union County Agricultural Center. Guests include Congressman Dan Bishop, District Attorney Trey Robison, Sheriff Eddie Cathey and Miss North Carolina Alexandra Badgett. Village Green will perform. www.uccrimes toppers.com 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; 3230 Presson Road, Monroe Paws Awhile Children (up to age 12) build literacy skills by reading to a therapy dog during Paws Awhile to Read at the Marshville Library. 704-624-2828 3 p.m.; 414 Hasty St., Marshville

Jan. 18 Book Signing Keesha Carter signs copies of her book, “Love After Cancer,” at The Book Lady. 704282-0646 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; 3513 W. U.S. 74, Monroe Paws Awhile Children (up to age 12) build literacy skills by reading to a therapy dog during Paws Awhile to Read at Union West Library. 704-821-7475 1 p.m.; 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail Iris Folding Youth (ages 7-12) learn a paper craft technique of iris folding from Wingate University professor Louise Napier at the Marshville Library. Register in advance. 704-624-2828 2 p.m.; 414 Hasty St., Marshville Recycling John Yvars, solid waste di-

rector for Union County Public Works, explains recycling resources at the Monroe Library. 704-283-8184 2 p.m.; 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe Math Club The Crazy 8s Math Club engage in interactive activities at the Monroe Library. The club is for ages 5-8. Register by emailing kim.chambers@ unioncountync.gov. 4 p.m.; 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe

Jan. 19 Paws Awhile Children (up to age 12) build literacy skills by reading to a therapy dog during Paws Awhile to Read at the Marshville Library. 704-624-2828 2 p.m.; 414 Hasty St., Marshville Pub Poker Deuces Pub Poker presents Monday Night Pub Poker at Lounge 74. 704-494-9445 7-10 p.m.; 6443 Old Monroe Road, Indian Trail

Jan. 21 Family Movie The Marshville Library screens the film, “Toy Story 4” for all ages. 704-624-2828 3:30 p.m.;414 Hasty St.., Marshville Book Club The book club at Indian Trail Library discusses Diana Biller's “The Widow of Rose House.” 704-821-7475 5:30 p.m.; 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail Coyote Presentation Marsh presents a program on coyotes at Banks Presbyterian Church. 6:30-8 p.m.; 10012 New Town Road, Waxhaw

Jan. 22 Dragon Party The Waxhaw Library celebrates all things dragons with children ages 8-12 at American Legion Post 208. 4 p.m.; 801 S. Main St., Waxhaw

Car Show Classic Cruisers of Monroe holds its Wednesday Nite Cruz In at Poplin Place. 6-9 p.m.; 2889 W. U.S. 74, Monroe

Jan. 23 Computer Classes Adults can get 30-minute one-on-one computer help at the Union West Library. Register in advance. 704-2838184 ext. 5222 3-5 p.m.; 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail Food Truck Cousins Maine Lobster rolls into DreamChaser's Brewery. 704-843-7326 5 p.m.; 115 E. N. Main St., Waxhaw

SOFTBALL (continued from page 1B)

“That’s what I love about it so much,” Gallup said. “We get together and play, then we all go and have lunch and have a good time. Some guys will even go play golf after that sometimes. It’s just so much fun.” Richard Storm lives outside Fort Mill and sometimes takes a 40-minute drive to the field. “I started last year and they made me feel welcome right away,” he said. “I live a little bit far away, but I couldn’t imagine giving this up ... The first day sitting in the dugout and hearing all of the laughing, joking and busting up, I was like, ‘OK, I’m going to like this. I’ve loved it ever since.” Ratliff said sometimes it’s hard as a se-

TRY

Jan. 26 Paws Awhile Children (up to age 12) build literacy skills by reading to a therapy dog during Paws Awhile to Read at the Marshville Library. 704-624-2828 2 p.m.; 414 Hasty St., Marshville

March 30 Senior Expo Charlotte Media Group presents the Thrive Over 55 Senior Expo at Christ Covenant Church. The free event features more than 60 vendors, free food and opportunities to connect with community resources and agencies serving older adults. Register through www.eventbrite.com or by calling 704-849-2261. Email adrian@cmgweekly. com to become a sponsor. 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 800 Fullwood Drive, Matthews

Ongoing Storytimes The Waxhaw Library holds storytimes for toddlers (birth to 36 months) at 10 a.m. and preschool youth (ages 3-5) at 11 a.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at the American Legion Post 208. 704-8433131 10 a.m.-noon; 801 E. S. Main St., Waxhaw

(continued from page 1B)

in the early 1900s. A light lunch will follow. • When: 10:30 a.m. Feb. 11 • Where: Langford Chapel, 113 S. Johnson St., Monroe Advance Directives seminar Make Plans to Document Your Healthcare Choices in an Advance Directive offers a free opportunity to create a living will and healthcare power of attorney. An advance care planning facilitator and notary from Atrium Health will assist with completion documents. Call 704-292-1797 to register. • When: 10 a.m. Feb. 13 • Where: Council on Aging, 1401 Skyway Drive, Monroe Memory Café: Bowling Enjoy an hour of bowling, sportsmanship and fellowship as part of the Council on Aging's monthly Memory Care Cafés program for those with memory loss and their caregivers. There is no cost to participate, but registration is required. Call 704292-1797 to register. • When: 1:30 p.m. Feb. 21 • Where: Fox’s Bowling Alley, 1901 Skyway Drive, Monroe Alternatives to Medicine Discussion Dr. Tene Osahar, Gracienne Jean Pierre and Wil Dees answer questions surrounding alternative therapies for pain and sleep. An

nior to meet new people, but the BOOM league has served him well in that regard. “This is for the guy who’s looking for something fun to do where you can build friendships and have relationships,” he said. “That’s really at the heart of what we do.” Jarrett just had surgery for esophageal cancer. He hasn’t swung a bat in months and says he’s itching for March to come. Stanford is receiving treatments for his cancer, but neither slowed down in the BOOM league. And everyone gets why. “We just have so much fun,” Storm said. “Nobody takes it or themselves seriously. I hadn’t played ball in 40-plus years, and it took me about a year to get into good playing shape. I’m still improving, but it was worth all of the pulled muscles. Right now, I’m having the time of my life and I couldn’t imagine not having this.” optional light lunch will follow the program. • When: 10:30 a.m. March 10 • Where: Langford Chapel, 113 S. Johnson St., Monroe Welcome to Medicare Information Session Council on Aging, in conjunction with SHIIP (Seniors Health Insurance Information Program), will hold an info session for anyone new to Medicare or interested in learning more about Medicare choices. Register by calling 704-292-1797. • When: March 19 • Where: Indian Trail Town Hall, 315 Matthews-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail. Memory Café: Animal Therapy Two by Two Petting Zoo is bringing animal therapy in the form of sheep, goats and bunnies as part of the Council on Aging's monthly Memory Care Cafés program for those with memory loss and their caregivers. There is no cost to participate, but registration is required. Call 704-292-1797 to register. • When: 10 a.m. March 20 • Where: Next Door, 104 Lydia St., Monroe Family Caregiver Support Group Family caregivers can get support and encouragement from their peers in a support group. Call 704-292-1797 for details. • When: Third Tuesday of each month • Where: Ellen Fitzgerald Senior Center, 327 S. Hayne St., Monroe

Want to submit? Send calendar events to justin@cmgweekly.com

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Page 4B • Regional Section • Jan. 17, 2020 ates a courtyard effect, allowing peoCommissioner Dale Dalton menple to use the space for entertaining. tioned the idea of installing sprinkler (continued from page 1B) The community provides yard main- systems in the homes. tenance for residents. Davis said buyers aren’t used to across the region, including Concord, Davis told commissioners that having sprinklers in their homes. He Gastonia, Huntersville, Mooresville homes in The Courtyards at Mint said communities request sprinklers and Wesley Chapel. Hill will have side setbacks of 10.5 because they’re concerned about the The company broke ground in feet. property being outside of fire covNovember on The Courtyards on Mayor Brad Simmons told Da- erage or if there is a single entrance Lawyers Road, which will include vis that he’d like to see the density into a community. The Courtyards at 146 homes at Lawyers and Al- to be closer in line with two units Mint Hill will have two entrances at len Black roads in Stallings. It sold per acre. He also expressed concerns Hooks Road. out of homes two years ago in The about the proximity of homes, mak“The problem I got with it – these Courtyards at Emerald Lake, also in ing note of something Davis said things are so close together,” Dalton The New YorkinTimes Syndicationregarding Sales Corporation Stallings. earlier the presentation countered. “If one catches, I don’t Eighth Avenue, York, N.Y. 10018 Davis said what makes the prod- 620neighbors typicallyNew taking advantage care how close (Fire Chief David For Information Call: 1-800-972-3550 uct unique is the rear yard is passive of their fenced-in yards by adding Leath) is, he’s not going to be there For Release Friday, April 12, 2019 space. Fencing between the units cre- grills. before two or three catch fire.”

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Jan. 22

• Beantown Tavern: StellaRising Duo • Coyote Joe’s: Hardy • Evening Muse: Brandon Hardesty • Fillmore: Case; Grace Potter • Free Range Brewing: Unspoken Tradition • Gin Mill: Pluto for Planet • Hinson’s Drive-In: Mark Starnes and the Boys • Mia Famiglia: Karaoke Night • Neighborhood Theatre: Citizen Cope • Rooftop 210: DJ Austin, DJ Nice & DJ XO (silent disco) • Southern Range: Matt & John Acoustic Duo • Southern Roots: Ginger and TARGeT Band • Trail House: Ultimate Rock Machine • Vintner’s Hill: RC Acoustic • Visulite: Patrick Davis and His Midnight Choir

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Venues Charlotte • Coyote Joe’s: 4621 Wilkinson Blvd. • Evening Muse: 3227 N. Davidson St. • Fillmore: 820 Hamilton St. • Free Range Brewing: 2320 N. Davidson St. • Gin Mill: 1423 S. Tryon St. • Heist Brewery: 2909 N. Davidson St. • Neighborhood Theatre: 511 E. 36th St. • Rooftop 210: 210 E. Trade St. • Spectrum Center: 333 E. Trade St. • Stage Door Theater: 130 N. Tryon St. • Visulite: 1615 Elizabeth Ave.

Jan. 18 • Beantown Tavern: Jason Brigner • Evening Muse: Michael Palascak; Emma’s Lounge, Ashley Heath & Her Heathens • Fillmore: Badfish; OTW & SXM Bluegrass Junction • Gin Mill: DJ XO • Mac’s Speed Shop: String Theory • Mary O’Neill’s: Funkyard Dog • Neighborhood Theatre: Hiss Golden Messenger • Pour 64: Nate Randall • Southern Range: Jason Brigner • Steady Eddy’s: Jade Moore • Stooges Pub: Soakin’ West • Sweet Union: Taplow • Trail House: Chasin the Rain • Visulite: Courtney Lynn & Quinn

Indian Trail • Mia Famiglia: 7870 Idlewild Road • Sweet Union: 13717 E. Independence Blvd. • Trail House: 6751 Old Monroe Road Matthews/Mint Hill • Beantown Tavern: 130 Matthews Station St. • Hinson’s Drive-In: 2761 CPCC Lane • Mac’s Speed Shop: 142 E. John St. • Pour 64: 4410 Mint Hill Village Lane • Steady Eddy’s: 2216 E. John St. • Stooges Pub: 13230 Albemarle Road • Vintner’s Hill: 7427 Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Jan. 19 • Evening Muse: Cry Baby, Whitehall & Charles Walker • Fillmore: Blexit; American Authors & Magic Giant • Free Range Brewing: David Childers & The Serpents • Gin Mill: DJ XO • Heist Brewery: Neal Francis & Colby Dobbs Band

Monroe • Southern Range: 151 S. Stewart St. • Southern Roots: 350 E. Franklin St. Stallings • Lake View Grill: 9750 Tournament Drive

Jan. 21 • Coyote Joe’s: Kane Brown • Evening Muse: Jesse Lamar Williams • Mia Famiglia: Music Bingo • Spectrum Center: Celine Dion

Waxhaw • Mary O’Neill’s: 116 W. N. Main St.

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f there were high scho a way to I would ol football bet on games, have mad people a weekly lot of money e a lot of predictio with

my gam my ns. Unfo because e picks were just rtunately, windfall. I sure could have for fun, used the All year most of long I’ve been winners the time – pick – at least the high and calling upse ing game scho ts But this ol landscape. around is playoff shaking time, so it up. I’m Here are each area three quick I see it. game and the facts about outcome as No. 10 Vance Butler (8-2) at (8-3 No. 7 • Form ) er Sout back Aust h Mec er for the in Grier is the k quarterlast week Cougars, who signal callbeen seed by Hough or were upset wou ed muc h higher. ld have • The the Cou last time these gars won teams met, 49, but Butler ownin a wild one ing won 50nine of s the series, hav11. • Butl Worthy er running back Jama is the seaso 60 yards shy l of Bulldog n. He leads the 1,000 on downs. attack with run-heavy 13 touc hWinner: Vance No. 12 No. 5 ArdrIndependence • The ey Kell (10- (6-5) at straight Knights have1) to und since opening won 10 efeated with claimed Wedding a loss ton and conferen their second consecut ce title. ive

Charlotte Chris senior scored tian receiver a touc hdown Logan Jone s in the Knights’(1) and quar state chamterback pionshipMatthew Tuom win over ala Christ (5) congratul School. ate Andrew JB Awolowo Stark/SCW after the by Andr photo andrew@ ew Stark cmgw eekly.com

New-lo ok Knig hts earn

three-p eat

CHARLO your typic TTE – This wasn football al Charlott ’t e made theteam, but in the Christian third strai most of it and end, they School ght title by beat won their 38-2 ing Chr ist The Knig1 on Nov. 8. hts having won 21 came into 2019 and two consecut state ive games champion college-le on Satu vel talent who ships with rday now play Charlott s. e Christia season n well the open , drilling Sunstarted the costly. er, but that gam Valley in e proved Char Starting lotte Chris Tuomala quarterback tian finish ed 2019 and star Matthew later hand Henry with an running ed Rutledge 8-2 reco back over to tight the quarterb and the rd. Andr Knights were dinged ew Stark Both filled end Brett Adam acking to /SCW up, struggled They losing photo s. in adm . Knights running first turned irably, but ing last those 23 senio were to year. rs graduatAwolowo back/defensiv receiver/ they wanted out of sync with the “Last year, e end to run JB were limited to offensivel what coul ever the offen se and their quar not only by y, and thos d do it beca yone knew use we terback the e peop but also loss of le, but we had all of adjusting we lost a big see KNIGHTS,

Page 4A

Hundred Thunbe s rally behind rg to p Greta see STAR

K, Page

tag

Page 6B • Regional Section • Jan. 17, 2020

WINTER MELTDOWN EVENT WE PAY YOUR

SALES TAX

Internet Pricing!

12 MONTHS NO INTEREST FINANCING

Cardinal Camera will pay your sales tax on all camera purchases in the form of store credit. Excludes lenses and flashes

3 DAYS ONLY! January 24-25-26

Cele

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Years in Bus

Since 1937

ines s!

OPEN SUNDAYS

WE’LL BEAT ANYONE’S PRICE!

next to Harris Teeter

Kurt Seelig

704-541-7488

www.cardinalcamera.com

FREE CAMERA CLEANING

Manufacturers reps showing the latest in digital cameras and lenses.

Sensor Cleaning $49.99 Lens Calibrations $19.99

FUJI

BRING IN YOUR USED CAMERA GEAR PLUS YOUR USED APPLE PRODUCTS

2 DAYS ONLY! JANUARY 24-25

Bring in your old gear and get CASH or an additional 10% in CARDINAL CREDIT when buying a new camera or lens.

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ARBORETUM SHOPPING CENTER

3351 Pineville Matthews Rd. Suite 100 Charlotte

Third Generation Family Owned & Operated

CA$H FOR CAMERAS

CHARLOTTE

2 DAYS ONLY! JANUARY 24-25 ALL AGES

SATURDAY, JANUARY 25TH 8:30am Camera Essentials 1 - You have a DSLR now Classes taught by Tony Ulchar what? How to get better photos from your camera 11:00am Light It Up Flash Class - How to create great portraits using flash.

a7 III Mirrorless

18-400mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC HLD Lens

BODY ONLY! 24MP Full-Frame Exmor R BSI CMOS Sensor BIONZ X Image Processor 693-Point Hybrid AF System UHD 4K30p Video with HLG

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1799.00

w/18-55mm & 75-300mm lenses 24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor DIGIC 4+ Image Processor 3.0" 920k-Dot LCD Monitor EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II Lens EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Lens EOS Shoulder Bag 200ES

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MAJOR CLEARANCE SALE

Selling Brand New, Overstocks, Open Boxed, Clearance and Demo Models.

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FUJI xp130 16.4MP BSI CMOS Sensor Fujinon 5x Optical Zoom Lens 28-140mm (35mm Equivalent) Water, Shock, Freeze, and Dustproof Full HD 1080p Video Recording at 60 fps 3.0" 920k-Dot LCD Monitor

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$649.00$50=

$1999.00-200= $1799.00

3 DAYS ONLY! JANUARY 24-25-26

EVERYTHING IS ON SALE!

1:00pm Travel Photography - From local trips to far away. How to get great travel photos.

Camera Bags & Tripods

50% OFF

Entire Store

FREE EXPO SEMINARS

20-50% OFF

Up to

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99.99

Tough TG-6

5D MARK IV

12MP BSI CMOS Sensor TruePic VIII Image Processor Olympus 4x Optical Zoom f/2 Lens 3.0" 1.04m-Dot LCD Monitor Water, Crush, Shock, Freeze & Dustproof

BODY ONLY! 30.4MP Full-Frame CMOS DIGIC 6+ Image Processor 3.2" 1.62m-Dot Touchscreen LCD Monitor DCI 4K Video at 30 CALL FOR fps; 8.8MP Still Grab

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SPECIAL SHOW PRICE

24-70mm

85mm

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a7rIII

BODY ONLY! 42MP Full-Frame Exmor R BSI CMOS BIONZ X Image Processor & Front-End LSI

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$2499.00

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Save up to

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Sony Full Frame Cameras!

6 TAPES FOR

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EOS R

D7500

OMD E-M5 MARK III

SPECIALREBATES ON SONY LENSES!

PRICING!

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Tape transfers to DVD

One Tape $19.99 Not to be combined with any other offer. With coupon. Exp. 2/29/20.

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ASK FOR EXTRA SHOW DISCOUNT!

$1799.00

Special Show Rebates on Tamron lenses!

ZS-70 20.3MP 1/2.3" MOS Sensor Leica DC Vario-Elmar 30x Zoom 24-720mm (35mm Equivalent) 1.166m-Dot Live View Finder

$789.00

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$299.99

Scan Slides to DVD

49¢

EACH

35mm only. Not to be combined with any other offer. With coupon. Exp. 2/29/20.

10% OFF Reel to Reel Movies to DVD

Not to be combined with any other offer. With coupon. Exp. 2/29/20.