Weekly Waxhaw Jan. 24, 2020 by Charlotte Media Group

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Craft coffee Area roasters get a taste of growth, 1B

Arts, food may help town flourish by Kayla Berenson kayla@cmgweekly.com

WAXHAW – The growth and promotion of Waxhaw’s charming downtown area will start from the inside out, led by citizens. The town’s Main Street Advisory Committee, which sets out to build economic vitality and development to make downtown Waxhaw a vibrant place, has come up with a work plan to fulfill that goal. The board’s chair, Emily Kroeger, read the new vision statement for downtown Waxhaw, put together by a group of citizens, including

some council members, at the Jan. 14 town commissioners meeting. “Life is on track in downtown Waxhaw,” Kroeger said. “Connected by the iconic overhead bridge, Downtown Waxhaw’s streetscapes pay homage to heritage while keeping pace with progress. A vibrant arts community, unique boutiques and diverse cuisine partnered with professional business services make Waxhaw an epicenter for entrepreneurship and innovation.” In order to make this happen, the advisory committee has come up see DOWNTOWN, Page 3A

Waxhaw citizens want to create more regional awareness about its charming downtown. WW file photo

2019 SMALL BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR AWARDS

They're chilling

An evening of shared dreams

Antarctic dinosaurs are coming, 6B Kim and Rob McClintock were named winners of Charlotte Media Group's 2019 Small Business Person of the Year Award. Justin Vick/WW photo

Education, training propel McClintocks to win top award Getting around

by Justin Vick kayla@cmgweekly.com

Alfaro helps seniors stay on the road, 6A

ABOVE: Stephen and Susan Bonilla, of Passionate Paws Animal Hospital, celebrated their award with loved ones Jan. 16 at the Hampton Inn & Suites SouthPark @ Phillips Place. BELOW: Nikki Bourgeault, of Brush'd Salon, also earned an award. Justin Vick/WW photos

Waxhaw owners earn Rising Star distinction the hospital, I wanted all my ducks in a row,” Bonilla said. “My husband was like the ducks are in a pond. The ducks don't have to be in a row. Because of him, we wouldn't have the practice that we have today.” Bourgeault opened Brush'd Salon in fall 2019 within the Reafield shopping center in Waxhaw after years of doing hair and makeup including New York Fashion Week shows. Her new venture helps charities that support cystic fibrosis research. She held back tears as she thanked her husband. “If you are starting your own business, the biggest thing I would say is to have patience,” she said. “ I have learned that along the way.”

by Justin Vick

Expansion

justin@cmgweekly.com

Assisted stretching is catching on, 5A

CHARLOTTE – Dr. Susan Bonilla and Nikki Bourgeault are not only successful business owners, but they also were among three entrepreneurs to earn the distinction of Rising Stars at Charlotte Media Group's 2019 Small Business Person of the Year awards Jan. 16 at the Hampton Inn & Suites SouthPark @ Phillips Place. Nominations described Dr. Bonilla, of Passionate Paws Animal Hospital in Waxhaw, as compassionate, caring and kind. She thanked her parents and husband, Stephen, who serves as hospital administrator. “When we first opened

Role model Injury doesn't stop teen from making impact, 4A

Hoops roundup Updates on Cavs, Mavs & Rebels, 4A

Arts & Entertainment....................... 1B Classifieds..............................................................5B Loud&Live.............................................................3B Calendar....................................................................3B Dining Scores................................................. 6B Puzzles.........................................................................3B

More coverage of this story can be found on our social media platforms. Just search for @weeklywaxhaw Facebook: An album of more than 15 photos Twitter: Follow the hashtag #sbpoy for updates Pinterest: Pins added to Local Business board YouTube: Acceptance speeches from the winners

see WINNERS, Page 5A

Sandy Hook parent runs for school board by Kayla Berenson kayla@cmgweekly.com

INDEX

Go Deeper

CHARLOTTE – Rob and Kim McClintock planned on going to a national conference in Orlando, Florida, but they canceled their trip after learning about a workforce development event scheduled for the same day at Ardrey Kell High School. The couple saw a greater opportunity to share with students and school staff the many benefits to working in the trades, particularly ones they specialize in at McClintock Heating & Cooling in Matthews. Their focus on the community is one of the many reasons why the couple received Charlotte Media Group's 2019 Small Business Person of the Year Award on Jan. 16 at the Hampton Inn & Suites SouthPark @ Phillips Place. “One thing that stood out to us about this couple and their business is they were very committed to providing education resources to their staff, so much so that they have created an apprenticeship program to help showcase that trade schools are a viable option,” said Adrian Garson, publisher of Charlotte Media Group. Education is a cornerstone of the business. It helped Rob McClintock transition from an HVAC expert to a business owner, just as training allows their technicians to understand emerging technology and develop customer service skills. McClintock Heating & Cooling serves Mecklenburg, Union and Cabarrus counties, but Rob McClintock also serves as president of the North Carolina Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contracting Association. One of the biggest challenges in their industry is the lack of trained workforce. It's why events like the

Claudia Sandoval’s life was forever changed when her children became survivors of the Sandy Hook Elementa- Sandoval ry School shooting in 2012. She chose to end her 12-year vet-

erinarian career to become an advocate for gun violence prevention. She and her family now live in Union County, where her three children attend Union County Public Schools. Her investment in the community and passion for school-related issues prompted her to run for the board of education at-large seat. “I think Union County kids deserve a bright future, so I’m running for the board of education at-large to

ensure that every child has access to public education that promotes both academic excellence and social-emotional competency,” Sandoval said. Along with promoting social-emotional learning, advocating for safety in schools will be a top priority for Sandoval if she is elected. For the last year and a half, Sandoval has advocated to the board as a member of the safety committee. She advises on evidence-based

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school safety programs. Sandoval also recently started working for Sandy Hook Promise, which was founded by parents who lost their loved ones in the 2012 shooting. She gets to visit schools in North Carolina and educate students on how to speak up anonymously, as well as find warning signs regarding gun violence. see PARENT, Page 3A

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Chimney drop-off boxes overflow during the employee holiday party with food items for the South Piedmont Food Pantry. Photo courtesy of SPCC

Kylie Sark has served as art director for Charlotte Media Group since March 2018. Learn more about her in our web series "Meet the Staff" on our YouTube channel. Justin Vick/WW photo

South Piedmont Community College to open food pantry

PUBLISHER Adrian Garson adrian@cmgweekly.com

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MONROE – Students and staff at South Piedmont Community College can begin using a food pantry on each campus beginning the last week in January. The idea for a food pantry started with Amanda Winfrey, a library circulation assistant at SPCC. Being surrounded by books, her inspiration came from “The Lorax” by Dr. Seuss: “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” A team of people across campus helped Winfrey bring her idea to reality. The SPCC Foundation donated the first $1,000 and the Student Government Association followed with an additional $500. An employee food drive ended during the holiday party where many employees opted to give food and supplies to the pantry rather than gifts to each other. “This initiative is important because poverty doesn’t have a look,” Winfrey said. “You never know what someone is going through.”

BUSINESS MANAGER Rebecca Jensen rjensen@cmgweekly.com

• Waxhaw closing in on hiring new town manager • School board member wants to cut red tape regarding water rates • Take your time … there’s no rush at Provisions Waxhaw • Cappella: High density hypocrisy as county commissioners raise water rates • 9 to Try: Council on Aging offers programming for seniors

MANAGING EDITOR Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com NEWS EDITOR Karie Simmons karie@cmgweekly.com

TWEETS OF THE WEEK • “Jan. 18 was a significant personal milestone for me. Two years ago, my wonderful surgeon replaced my jaw and other facial bones with my fibula. Incredible! Two years is extremely significant in cancer recovery, and I’ve been cleared ever since that day. I’m beyond grateful!” – Andrew Stark (@AndrewStark66) • “Way to go @UCPS_MonroeNC Students and Staff! The 1st semester is OVER! Enjoy the weekend and don’t forget...no school Monday or Tuesday! #TeamUCPS” – Andrew G. Houlihan (@AGHoulihan) • “Lord, help me be the person I thought I could be when I bought all these resistance bands and smoothie ingredients #momlife” – Adrian Garson (@AdrianGarson1)

SPORTS EDITOR Andrew Stark andrew@cmgweekly.com CONTENT PRODUCER Kayla Berenson kayla@cmgweekly.com ART DIRECTOR Kylie Sark art@cmgweekly.com

Souper Bowl benefits shelter

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UPCOMING EDITIONS • Feb. 14: Summer Camps • Feb. 21: Thrive Over 55 • Feb. 28: Arts & Entertainment

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MONROE – The Community Shelter of Union County is gearing up for the Super Bowl by participating in the national Souper Bowl of Caring. Last year’s campaign raised more than $46,787 for the shelter, with Union County Public Schools’ combined donations through individual school campaigns totaling $28,228. “Each year, the schools work hard to raise funds to fight hunger and homelessness in Union County,” CEO Kathy Bragg, said. “We are so proud of the students and administration for participating in this fight that impacts every corner of our county.” Weddington High School was the top fundraising school for the fifth consecutive year. The school raised more than $3,400, resulting in a combined $17,157 contribution since 2015. Souper Bowl is also an annual event for many Union County churches. Faith-based contributions totaled more than $13,000 last year, and other contributions were more than $5,200. Souper Bowl runs through March 15. Any organization, school, business or family can participate. Contact Jeff Rogers at 704-261-3083 or Jeff.Rogers@UnionShelter.org.

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MONROE – The Union County Extension Master Gardeners is seeking volunteers to serve on the planning committee of the 2020 Union County Heritage Festival on Sept. 19. Committee members work on various components of the event including entertainment, exhibitors, marketing and the 5K. Planning meetings are held monthly from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Union County Agricultural Center, 3230 Presson Road. The next meeting is scheduled for Feb. 12. Individuals interested in participating are welcome to attend the meetings. Email Tina Sagartz at cgsagartz@carolina. rr.com for details.

Voter registration deadline for primary approaches MONROE – The voter registration deadline for the March 3 Primary Election is Feb. 7. Voter registration applications received by the Union County Board of Elections office or

postmarked by the deadline are accepted as valid applications for the upcoming election. To register to vote in North Carolina, prospective voters must be 18 years old and a U.S. citizen, live in the county of registration (at least 30 days prior to the date of the election) and not be serving a sentence for a felony conviction, including probation or parole. Voters who are not registered in the county by the deadline may register and vote during one-stop voting only. Call the Union County Board of Elections at 704-283-3809 or email union.boe@Union countync.gov for details.

GriefShare programs start WEDDINGTON – GriefShare offers a weekly video seminar support group for people experiencing grief and loss of a loved one. It features some of the nation’s foremost experts on grief recovery topics. Seminar sessions include “Is This Normal?” “The Challenges of Grief,” “Grief and Your Relationships,” “Why?” and “Guilt and Anger.” Each seminar is combined with a small group discussion to allow group participants to talk about the content of the seminar and about how they are dealing with the death of their loved one. The 14-week meetings begin Jan. 28 from 7 to 9 p.m. at All Saints Anglican Church, 5328 Hemby Road. The workbook costs $15. Call 704-246 -8023 or visit www.allsaints weddington.org and visit www.griefshare.org for details.

NCDOT recognizes local club WEDDINGTON – The North Carolina Department of Transportation recognized the Weddington Optimist Club for its 30-year participation in the state-sponsored Adopt-AHighway program. The club maintains a two-mile section of Weddington Road in front of Optimist Park. The award in part states “In recognition of your service to protect the environment and enhance the quality of life for all North Carolinians, we are pleased to award you this distinguished STAR award and two 30-year stars for your Adopt-A-Highway signs.” Visit www.weddington-optimist.org to learn more.

Fink makes dean's list CLINTON, S.C. – Samantha James Fink, of Waxhaw, made the dean’s list during the fall spring 2019 semester at Presbyterian College. She earned between a 3.3 and a 3.9 grade point average to make the list.

Optimist Club sponsors essay contest for students WEDDINGTON – The Optimist Club of Weddington is encouraging area students to contemplate the phrase “Is Optimism the Key to Achieving the Dreams you iMagine?” as part of the Optimist International Essay Contest for the 2019-20 school year. The club will judge the local students’ essays, based on the theme of “Is Optimism the Key to Achieving the Dreams you iMagine?” and determine the top winners. The top three winners will receive cash awards, and the winning essays will be sent to the district level where college scholarships are available for top winners. “Young students today have so many fresh ideas about the world and their future,” President Bill Deter said. “As Optimists, it is our goal to encourage them and do what we can to bring out the best in each of them. This gives them a wonderful opportunity to tap into their creativity and pursue possible scholarships at the same time.” The Optimist Club of Weddington has been participating in the essay contest for over 30 years. Students wishing to participate in the essay contest can find out more about it sby contacting their school or the club's event chairman at 704-989-5367.

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Weekly Waxhaw • Jan. 24, 2020 • Page 3A

Can Main Street save us all? by Quint Studer Contributor

Social media could help give the town a platform to promote local artists. WW file photos

DOWNTOWN (continued from page 1A)

with a three-part strategy that involves both Waxhaw residents and local government officials. Kroeger said the first part of the plan is to “grow Waxhaw’s reputation as a hub for dining and culinary experience.” The committee hopes to cultivate a group of local restaurant owners that can come together and form a marketing plan that would include providing special opportunities for people to eat in Waxhaw. Another component of growing Waxhaw’s culinary reputation will include partnering with local restaurants for a future big food event. Kroeger gave the example of “Battle of the Restaurants,” which Mayor Ron Pappas said he was excited about. Kroeger said the restaurants would run the events. The goal is to create more regional awareness about downtown dining. “We’re trying to create a buzz in downtown,” Kroeger said. “Go beyond our borders.” The committee would also like to boost the status of downtown Waxhaw’s professional services and unique boutiques. They envision the creation of a citizen leadership board to develop what this will look like. “By our providing framing and a goal and being accountability partners to our downtown merchants, they can drive what this looks like,” Kroeger said. “We can set a framework for them to work within, which is, right now, lacking.”

She brought up the idea of developing an email platform for merchants to send out monthly news about their business. Social and digital media will also be a big part of the town’s plan for growth and promotion. Kroeger said the committee will research the feasibility of a social media page or downtown lifestyle-oriented page and present those options to the commissioners. They plan to work with the town’s communications team to develop this. Social and digital media are also part of the third component of the plan, which is to support the town’s visual arts and craftsmen. The committee would like to incorporate social media into this, as well as identify a team of leaders in the arts, culture and history arenas of the town. They also want to develop a tool to measure the economic impact of cultural and visual arts in

PARENT (continued from page 1A)

“I’m really proud in this role of the partnership that the state of North Carolina has developed with the Sandy Hook Promise in using their Say Something anonymous reporting system,” Sandoval said. “I get to go into schools and do a 45-minute presentation on knowing warning signs and threats with middle-schoolers and high-schoolers and helping them on using the anonymous reporting app. That, for me, is really rewarding and fulfilling.” Another priority for Sandoval is ensuring UCPS gets the funding it needs, both from North Carolina and from county commissioners. She hopes to work with county commissioners to accomplish this goal. “I know it can be challenging, especially based on history,” Sandoval said. “My hope

downtown Waxhaw. Commissioner Anne Simpson said she was part of the group that formed the vision statement and she loved how the committee is bringing it to fruition. She suggested the creation of an app, which aligns with the plan to increase the town’s digital media presence. The app would allow opportunities to explore Waxhaw, from historic landmarks to popular restaurants. The board voted to give the committee the green light to research more and bring their options back to the board at a later date. The committee will look at the best practices in other towns and see what would work best for Waxhaw. “Some outstanding things exist that we have never even seen before that we would like to research more and see if they would work for us,” Kroeger said.

is to be collaborative with the county commissioners, but I want to be an advocate to get the schools the vital resources that I feel they need.” She also plans to fight for teachers and advocate for holistic learning, rather than learning based solely on test scores. “I feel that teachers have limited resources and they don’t really feel valued, so I think teacher retention is a big issue,” Sandoval said. “I also want to advocate for policies that promote whole-child learning that are less focused on testing and foster more curiosity and problem-based learning and where children can be engaged in their education.” She thinks UCPS is moving in the right direction when it comes to preparing students for the 21st-century workforce and focusing on students beyond their test scores, so she wants to further these efforts. As an at-large member on the board, Sandoval recognizes the diverse needs throughout the county, rather than focusing on just

Notice of Annual Drawdown Limits for Lake Tillery Duke Energy Progress, LLC received the new operating license for the Yadkin-Pee Dee Hydroelectric Project on April 1, 2015. This license defines how Duke Energy Progress will operate the project, including lake level requirements for Lake Tillery. This notice is to inform the public of the annual drawdown limits for Lake Tillery between December 15, 2019, and March 1, 2020. Duke Energy Progress strives to maintain Lake Tillery at no more than 1.5 feet below full pond. However, lake level fluctuations are allowed to be as much as 3 feet below full pond during the December 15 and March 1 time frame. If storage is needed for electrical generation purposes during this period, Duke Energy Progress may reduce the lake level by as much as 5 feet below full pond. This would only occur if there were no other options to meet the electric system demand. Water fluctuations of up to 8 feet may occur during system emergencies and potentially be greater during drought periods. Information about lake level is available online at duke-energy.com/lakes or by calling 800.899.4435.

In my work with cities, towns, and communities on revitalization efforts across the U.S., I’ve seen it firsthand: Downtowns are making a huge comeback. I’ve walked up and down many Main Streets with many leaders and citizens. I’ve seen “ghost town” areas slowly come back to life with the help of a vibrant downtown. And what I’ve come to believe is that Main Street is more than a collection of restaurants, shops, apartments, and office buildings. Main Street is our salvation. When we can get this piece right, it can change lives for the better. To build a stronger America, we need to invest in our communities. We need to empower entrepreneurs, build a strong local business presence and make sure leaders are well trained so they can succeed long-term. We need to improve our education systems. We need to improve civic IQs and get citizens engaged and excited. We need to change the conversation about what our communities can become. And—this is essential—we need to start by creating vibrant, walkable downtowns and thriving Main Streets. Here’s why: • Investing in Main Street encourages entrepreneurship and creates more small businesses. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, small businesses create two out of every three net new jobs in the private sector. Plus, over half of all Americans own or work for a small business. Small business is the engine that powers communities. • When a business community is strong, its leaders can be galvanized to solve problems. These are the

smart, influential people Jim Clifton, author of The Coming Jobs War, calls “tribal leaders.” They have social capital and know how to get things done. Plus, they have a personal interest in the community’s well-being. • It keeps young people at home and attracts talent. More and more young people are choosing small towns (for various reasons). This creates a great talent pool, which makes smaller towns attractive for entrepreneurs and all types of business investors. • It reconnects us on a human level. In a dehumanized age when so many people feel isolated, this factor is really important. Walkable main streets and good downtown programming bring people together. Trading face-toface keeps the human interaction. This is a critical factor in creating a strong sense of community. • People see they really do have the power to change things. Once you get a few quick wins, the conversation changes. Citizens see it’s up to them (not government) to reinvent themselves. They suddenly get more optimistic and confident. They get more civic-minded and connected to one another. • It makes us better people. Coming together as a community makes us more inclusive, more compassionate. Our neighbors’ problems become our problems. We’re more willing to give our time and resources to make the community better. Quint Studer is author of "Building a Vibrant Community: How Citizen-Powered Change Is Reshaping America" and Wall Street Journal bestseller "The Busy Leader’s Handbook: How to Lead People and Places That Thrive."

one area. running against Republicans Todd Price and Throughout her campaign, she plans to Sarah May. However, she does not think her attend various events and get to know as political party affiliation should sway voters many people as possible. She plans to con- one way or another. She prefers to separate tinue to get her name out there and hear herself in terms of what she can bring to the all voters’ concerns. This, she believes, will board, rather than her political party. make her a better candidate as well as a bet“That day I experienced tragedy, it didn’t ter representative. matter what political party you were She hopes that all students feel from,” Sandoval said. “For me, recognized by the board and feel what separates me from the that the board is on their side. others is my passion toward She plans to showcase that ensuring that all kids have I want to be an from the at-large perspeca bright, successful future. advocate to get the tive. I don’t focus on party beschools the vital “For me, advocating for cause I care about all of our resources that I feel all children as I feel like I’ve kids.” they need.” done with safety and with She also believes her pre• Claudia Sandoval vious veterinary experience alsocial-emotional learning and seeing my own experiences with lows her to bring unique skills to my own children with what they’re gothe board as a creative problem-solver. ing through with the stresses and anxiety She plans to use her passion for kids, comof testing and other things, I really want to munity and education to advocate for the focus on empowering children to invest in policies that matter most. their own education and feel like we’re in“When I’m elected and when I serve on vesting in them as well,” Sandoval said. “I the Union County Board of Education, peowant all children to feel like they deserve this ple of Union County will get a tireless advobright future and they’re capable of amazing cate for our children’s education because I’m things.” dedicated to every student having a bright Sandoval is the only Democrat in this race, future,” Sandoval said.

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Page 4A • Weekly Waxhaw • Jan. 24, 2020

Cuthbertson girls stand out among Waxhaw basketball teams by Andrew Stark andrew@cmgweekly.com

WAXHAW – The Cuthbertson girls basketball team had two crucial holes to fill from the starting lineup of last season’s state runner-up team, but were adding talent and returning nearly everybody else. Naturally expectations were high, but the Cavs have answered nearly every call. Their only flub came against a talented Myers Park team back in November of last year, but they’ve since reeled off 14 consecutive wins which includes a 7-0 start in the Southern Carolinas. The Cavs have had a few close games – against Weddington, 4A state runner-up Butler and Forest Hills – but nobody has been able to slow them down. Junior Maddie Dillinger has picked up right where she left off from last year's Western Regional MVP performance, averaging 14.0

points, 6.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 2.7 steals per game to lead the way. Sweet-shooting freshman Reagan Iovino has made an immediate impact, averaging 10.6 points per game while shooting 42% (43-of103) from 3-point range. The Cavs are also bolstered by Lillian Anderson (9.6 points and 7.5 rebounds), sophomore Ruby Williams (6.9 points), Kamara Sheriff (6.1 points), Lauryn Hardiman (5.2 points) and Trinity Cherry-Brown (3.6 points). Cuthbertson still has some tough matchups going forward in conference as well as Charlotte Catholic, Weddington, Parkwood and Marvin Ridge remain on the schedule. Here's how other teams fared through Jan. 20: Cuthbertson boys The Cuthbertson boys team didn’t do itself any favors with its 0-7 start to the season, but the Cavs have won seven of 10 since then, including a 4-3 start to con-

ference play. The Cavs lost to Sun Valley earlier this season, but they get another shot at the Spartans on Jan. 21 in a battle of teams with identical conference records. The winner will be alone in third place behind Charlotte Catholic and Weddington. Junior JP Haggarty (18.9 points and 7.8 rebounds) has emerged as the Cavs star, but they have talent with Will Heyward (8.7 points, 4.5 rebounds and 4.1 assists) to keep this team in the mix the rest of the way. Marvin Ridge girls The Marvin Ridge girls team has upset wins over Forest Hills and Parkwood and took Charlotte Catholic to double overtime. The Mavs are turning into a team nobody wants to play despite being 7-7 overall and 3-4 in conference. Led by freshman Zahra Douglas (11.4 points, 5.1 rebounds and 2.1 steals), they have also received contributions from Kyndall Shiv-

ers (9.4 points), Amarachi Emezie (5.9 points), Emma Drake (5.6 points), Ryley Keefe (4.8 points), Jada Boyko (3.1 points) and Caroline Gravelle (3.1 points). The Mavs will look to continue to play giant-slayers as they still have dates with Charlotte Catholic, Weddington, Parkwood and Cuthbertson. Marvin Ridge boys The Marvin Ridge boys have lost four straight and had a tough year (4-12 overall, 1-6 Southern Carolinas). While the Mavs have had a down season, seniors Christian Peterson (15.7 points and 7.1 points), Jack Graham (8.2 points and 6.2 rebounds) and Dallas Griffin (7.3 points and 5.1 rebounds) are having nice individual years. Parkwood girls The Parkwood girls team is one of the biggest surprises in the Southern Carolinas.

The Rebels are 10-3 since losing to Nation Ford to close last November and have been on a tear although they will close the season with games against Cuthbertson, Weddington, Charlotte Catholic and a Marvin Ridge team that already upset them earlier this season. Sophomore Shimiya Taylor (12.4 points, 5.7 rebounds and 2.6 steals) and freshman Jade Washington (9.7 points and 7.8 rebounds) are the stars, but the Rebels go about nine deep on a regular basis and lean big on senior leadership from Chloe Hardy (7.1 points) and Kennedie Gaither (4.4 points). Parkwood boys While the Parkwood girls have flourished, the same cannot be said for the boys (1-12 overall, 1-6 conference). The Rebels' three-point win over Marvin Ridge on Dec. 20 was the only game this season they’ve played where the outcome is single digits.

Foot injury prompts dancer to adjust her priorities After years of striving to become a professional dancer, Carly Rauch refused to let a physical setback get her down. While recuperating, she discovered the value of giving back through the Salvation Army Boys & Girls Clubs. WEDDINGTON – A competitive dancer since age 5, Carly Rauch received devastating news during her sophomore year. The pain in her foot would require surgery. In her time away from competition, she coached a middle school dance team and accepted an invitation from a close friend to go to the Monroe Boys & Girls Club. “I go to the club because I want to be as much of a blessing to the kids as they are to me,” she said. “I have learned so much from the kids and their positive attitudes, despite the circumstances they might be in.” Rauch. a senior at Weddington High School, was named Salvation Army Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Charlotte's 2019-20 Youth of the Year. “Carly exemplifies the values we look for in our Youth of the Year. She’s a service-minded leader, she excels in the classroom and promotes a healthy lifestyle,” said

David McQueen, area director of the Boys & Girls Clubs in Union County. “But what impresses me most is how committed she is in serving as a mentor for the younger members at the club. She pours into their lives and spreads kindness in our community. She’s an example for all of us.” Proof of her work came this past holiday season, as Rauch organized Hope for the Holidays, an event that provided Christmas gifts for all Monroe club members. “It’s important to do things like this because many of us are so fortunate,” she said. “I know many Boys & Girls Club members in our community come from difficult circumstances, so it’s an honor to be able to provide some gifts for them at Christmas.” Being a member herself, Rauch knows the Monroe club members personally. In the time since her injury, her foot has regained strength, giving her a chance at re-

turning to competitive dance. “Returning would take up so much of my time that I would have to give up other things that mean so much to me,” she said. “While it hurt tremendously to give up competitive dance, that void in my life was filled with new blessings that I am extremely thankful for.” Upon graduating, Rauch plans to attend UNC-Chapel Hill or North Carolina State University and pursue a career in physical therapy. About the club The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Clubs was founded locally in 1935 on North Poplar Street in Charlotte. Today, eight clubs serve nearly 1,500 members in Mecklenburg and Union counties. Programs include academics, recreation, the arts, character and leadership, and health and life skills. Visit www.bgccharlotte.org for details.

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Carly Rauch received an award from the organization that serves nearly 1,500 students in Mecklenburg and Union counties. Photo courtesy of Salvation Army

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Weekly Waxhaw • Jan. 24, 2020 • Page 5A

2019 SMALL BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR FINALIST

StretchLab catching on across Charlotte region by Andrew Stark andrew@cmgweekly.com

CHARLOTTE – StretchLab has been open in Charlotte for just over a year and a half, but the company has already expanded its footprint with plans of even more growth coming in the very near future. The concept is spreading as the company has its hold with new locations popping up around the United States. It’s already expanded in Charlotte, too, with the original location in SouthPark, located at 914 Old Sardis Road, and the newest location in Dilworth that opened last August which is located at 1235 East Blvd. “I think the biggest impact we’re making is at the individual, pain-relief level,” said Steve Hitzemann, co-owner of StretchLab’s Charlotte locations with his wife, Stacey. “People are feeling good from getting a good stretch and doing it consistently. We’re sticking to what we do with stretching, stretching and more stretching. We say we’re for everyone and for everybody. It’s regardless of physical shape or what kind of health you’re in, we’re here to help everybody.” Hitzemann hires and trains flexologists in the art of assisted stretching. Each flexologist comes with their certificates and receives many hours of training specific to assisted stretching. So, no matter which location or which flexologist works on customers, the experience is the same for everyone. Hitzemann said he’s seen all sorts of people, and StretchLab can help them all achieve their goals, no matter what those may be. “For a lot of people, it’s lower back pain,” he said. “That’s where this stuff starts as it sort of manifests over the years. You get the tight hamstrings and glutes in the lower back and that goes with it. But it can be anything. We’re here to help folks with customized stretching to whatever their needs are. We can customize to what each individual, regardless of what their needs are, is there to do. The end game is to make them feel better.” The people of Charlotte have been reaping the benefits of better health. Hitzemann says that between the SouthPark and Dilworth locations there are already around 550 full-time members, and that number seems to grow daily as word of mouth spreads. Hitzemann said he often hears referrals from existing customers. A customer on this day had come in because of good word-ofmouth advertising from someone who was a regular and had recommended giving it a try. With quite a few members and walk-ins like that customer, plus the bustling population, Hitzemann said plans are in the early stages of expanding to the Huntersville area

StretchLab Charlotte owners Steve and Stacey Hitzemann already have two locations with plans on opening another location near Huntersville later this year. Photo courtesy of Steve Hitzemann

and possibly as soon as the second quarter of this year once he finds the right location. “The plan was definitely to grow across Charlotte,” he said. “We needed to know if the concept was going to take with people and it has. The reception continues to be really big for us.” Hitzemann said he knows how StretchLab can benefit people first hand. He first became interested in stretching after injuring his back. Traditional medicine and chiropractic care didn’t help the way stretching was and the idea of assisted stretching was starting to take shape so the fit was natural. Now, with two stores thriving in Charlotte and plans for more expansion already on the horizon, it’s clear the assisted stretching is here to stay and Hitzemann and his trained flexologists can help anybody with any type of pain. That certainly has some staying power. “I always hear from people that I feel better, I stand taller or I’m sleeping better,” Hitzemann said. “It’s a different experience from a chiropractor or a medical doctor. The community we’ve created and the way people are feeling coming out of there from a posture perspective. I always hear about that. People start to stand taller and then they’re also paying more attention to those things on a daily basis. They might be in there once a week, but now they’re thinking more about their posture and sort of the homework the flexologist has given them. “This opens the door if it’s just on a daily basis or if it’s so they can run longer, cycle further, walk their dog longer or just help them on a daily basis. That’s the nuts and bolts of why we’re here – to help people feel better.”

MillBridge advancing toward next development stage by Kayla Berenson kayla@cmgweekly.com

WAXHAW – The MillBridge development could continue to expand, though it will not exceed more than 2,090 units. The plan for MillBridge was originally approved in 2004, with a maximum of 2,090 units over the course of eight phases with several subphases. At the Waxhaw Board of Commissioners Jan. 14 meeting, the developer requested a rezoning that would allow them to move forward with phase 7F. Originally, the property is zoned as Conditional Use Planned Residential Development and Conditional Use Single Family Residential. If approved, it would be rezoned to Conditional District Planned Residential Development. Planning Director Jeff Wells said the main difference would be the size of the lots and allow the use of a 63-lot single family detached subdivision. The site for the rezoning is located along Tory Path Road, north of N.C. 75 and the railroad tracks. Wells said even though the site is not included in the original plan for MillBridge, it will not increase the total number of maximum lots. He said the property is located within the intended growth sector on the town’s

The Home Builders Association of Greater Charlotte named MillBridge in Waxhaw the 2019 Community of the Year. Photo courtesy of Pivot PR

future land use map. It also complies with the town’s future land use plan. Additionally, a new access point would be added over the railroad tracks to N.C. 75. Wells said the N.C. Department of Transportation is still in the design phase of this project and it does not have an anticipated completion date. However, he said because the project is funded, completion is more likely to be sooner rather than later. Town staff recommended approval of the rezoning with the condition that the plan adheres to the MillBridge Plan Review Guidelines, which Wells said the developer is willing to accept. Wells also said town staff believes the plan is reasonable and consistent with the comprehensive plan and future planning goals. The town’s planning board recommended approval of the rezoning without any conditions.

Wells said there are no FEMA floodplains on site and the developer will meet all landscaping requirements. The developer, Landeavor, has worked on MillBridge for the last seven years. Weston Boles, an engineer for WK Dickson & Co., said this property was left out of another rezoning for MillBridge. “They’re not trying to add more to MillBridge,” Boles said. “They’re just trying to complete the properties they have owned.” A neighborhood meeting was held Sept. 30 with four residents attending. No citizens spoke during the public hearing Jan. 14, so the board voted to close that portion of the process. The board will vote to approve the rezoning petition, approve the rezoning petition with conditions or deny the rezoning petition at a later meeting.

WINNERS (continued from page 1A)

one at Ardrey Kell High School are given greater priority over national conferences. “They understood from the beginning that having quality professional employees would set them apart from the competition,” Garson said. Charlotte Media Group's weekly newspapers began accepting nominations from readers in fall 2019 for Small Business Person of the Year. Newspaper staff and community partners evaluated nominees based on criteria that included the successful operation of the business, leadership and community contributions. Other winners Charlotte Media Group recognized several other business leaders during the Jan. 16 event. “This has been hard because there were so many reader nominations, it was difficult to delve into all of them and decide who should be our ultimate winner,” Garson said. “We had to come up with different awards because there were so many others that were deserving of recognition.” Dr. Susan Bonilla, of Passionate Paws Animal Hospital; Nikki Bourgeault, of Brush'd Salon; and Laura Budd, of Weaver | Budd, won Rising Star awards. Weaver | Budd Law formed in 2017 a couple of years ago in Matthews. Outside of being the managing partner for the firm, Budd serves on the board of directors for Matthews Athletic & Recreation Association, where she's also coached. “This local firecracker moderated our Town of Matthews candidate forum back in October of 2019,” Garson said. “She managed to balance assertiveness and grace better than anyone I have ever seen.” Kimberly Gossage, of Garrity and Gossage in Matthews, received the Communi-

ty Impact Award for her work helping older adults navigate the legal system, as well as her involvement in organizations like the Matthews HELP Center. “It's such a tremendous honor,” Gossage said. “I'm so impressed by the folks in this room and I'm just so honored to have a chance to even stand up here at all, so thank you for the honor Gossage not only took over as president of the Matthews Chamber of Commerce's board of directors, but the attorney also won the chamber's businessperson of the year award. Dr. Michael Smith, of Carolinas Natural Health Center in Matthews, was recognized for having the most nominations. Readers described him as a thoughtful, kind and charismatic leader that educates patients on wellness. Smith thanked his team while accepting the award. “They are the ones that really make the business run,” Smith said. “They make it a delightful place to work and a true experience for our members and the people we help.” Barry Steiger, of Mario's Italian Restaurant, received the Man About Town Award. He's active in the community through groups like the Matthews Rotary Club, Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity and Matthews Chamber of Commerce. “I'm here to help my restaurant do all that it can and help everybody to connect with each other,” Steiger said. “I think it's important we all support each other in business.” Julie Fox, of Fox's Alley Bowling Bar & Grill in Monroe, was recognized as Miss Congeniality. “When I read the nominations for this person, I felt like they all had a common thread,” Garson said. “They all spoke about how well loved she is in the Monroe community. They detailed her kind, magnetic personality.”

Page 6A • Weekly Waxhaw • Jan. 24, 2020

2019 SMALL BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR FINALIST

Ilderton Conversion helps people regain independence by Kayla Berenson kayla@cmgweekly.com

CHARLOTTE – For Mike Alfaro, working as the general manager of Ilderton Conversion of Charlotte is about more than just selling cars and vans. It’s about making a connection with his clients. Alfaro has worked at Ilderton for five years. He grew up in Waxhaw before moving to Florida, where he worked in the automotive industry. Eventually, an old boss asked him if he wanted to try something new in the mobility industry. It was then that Alfaro

found his passion. “I gave it a shot and I fell in love with it,” Alfaro said. “It was just what I was meant to do.” Because he wanted to raise his children in Waxhaw, he looked for jobs in the mobility industry in North Carolina and found Ilderton Conversion. He said the rest is history. “I got to move back home and I got to stay in the industry I love and here we are, five years later,” Alfaro said. The company, a family-owned business that has locations in Charlotte, High Point, Myrtle Beach, Charleston and Asheville,

specializes in wheelchair-accessible vans and his independence and go at his leisure. It was creating accessible adaptations to existing ve- a huge blessing for him to have.” hicles for people with disabilities. Another rewarding part of the job for him Ilderton Conversion is able to make vehi- is working with his staff, whom he treats cles more accessible by adding uplifts to help like family. He said his key to managing the drivers in wheelchairs get into their cars, pro- staff is communication. He encourages his viding locking devices to hold wheelchairs employees to always come forward with any down to the floor of the car and installing issues and work together to solve problems, hand controls for drivers who are not able to even if it is not their assigned job. use the traditional gas and brake pedals. “This is literally my second family, aside “It’s a very rewarding job,” Alfaro said. “It’s from my family at my house,” Alfaro said. giving people their independence back and “We have each other’s backs. If somebody getting them out to enjoy life.” needs help with whatever that may not be Alfaro said customers have a few options my job, I’m right on it.” when it comes to the process of choosing a He also treats his customers with the same vehicle. They can look online at the invento- regard. Alfaro said the company’s Google ry, come to the dealership in person or have reviews often cite the exceptional way cusa representative come out to the customer’s tomers are treated by their professional and location. friendly employees. For the last option, Alfaro “It’s easy to just leave a fivesaid a representative will have a star review, but when you go phone interview with the cus- We really treat to our reviews, it’s paragraphs tomer, then go to their location our customers of what has transpired and and give a presentation on the like family. That’s how they were treated and vehicle that would be best for why people keep what we did for them,” Alfaro them. said. coming back.” He said it is a very personalHe said the company serves • Mike Alfaro ized process. many members of the veter“It’s very detailed and it’s a very intimate an community and is involved with local transaction,” Alfaro said. “We’re really learn- charities. Recently, Ilderton started a new ing about the client as far as the nature of service called the Care Program, which Altheir disability. There’s different types of con- faro compared to AAA, but with even more. versions, so not every conversion is going to The service will pick up the Ilderton vehicle be the best fit for that one specific person.” in the event that it breaks down and send a Though Alfaro has many stories of cus- paratransit vehicle to pick up the driver and tomers who have been impacted by Ilderton’s transport them to wherever they need to go. services, he distinctly remembers delivering He said the company strives to go the exa vehicle to a grown man in tears when his tra mile in all aspects. vehicle arrived. “We really treat our customers like family,” The man said he was excited to finally be Alfaro said. “That’s why people keep coming able to go to the grocery store again. back.” “A lot of times, we take things for granted,” Alfaro said. “Even something as simple Want to learn more? as going to the grocery store to get out from Ilderton Conversion of Charlotte is locatthe house may seem miniscule to some, but ed at 1424 Archdale Drive in Charlotte. Visit was an eye-opener to see this gentleman it www.ildertonvans.com or call 844-327literally in tears just because now he can have 9400 for details.

“

Mike Alfaro’s favorite part of his job as general manager of Ilderton Conversion of Charlotte is being able to help disabled adults regain their independence through driving. Photo courtesy of Ilderton Conversion of Charlotte

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Regional Section • Jan. 24, 2020 • Page 1B

Five to try: Coffee shops If you do any traveling across the Charlotte region for work, I recommend identifying a coffee shop in each area you frequent in the event you run out of energy and need a boost. Sure, you could just ask Google or Siri to find the closest McDonald's, Dunkin' or Starbucks. But sometimes the mind needs to break free of sterile, corporate environments to reach optimal levels of creativity. Consider these five spots in southern Mecklenburg and western Union counties:

CRAFT

COFFEE

Brakeman's Coffee & Supply This coffee shop pays homage to the region's rich railroad history with its branding. The building dates back to 1925 and offers several unique spaces to lounge and enjoy the company of others. Where: 225 N. Trade St., Matthews Details: 704-841-7867 or www.brake manscoffee.com Cathy's Coffee Cathy Shumway opened her own coffee shop in 2015 after years of working in now closed Caribou Coffee locations. The shop recently held a Small Business Saturday vendor event and introduced magpies to its menu. Where: 606 Indian Trail Road S., Indian Trail Details: 704-821-7375 Crossroads Coffee House Crossroads Coffee House ticks off all the boxes when comes to a fitting third place – that one place you want to be other than home or work. It's been a destination for caffeine cravers since 1999. Where: 112 N, Broome St., Waxhaw Details: 704-843-5667 or www.cross roads-coffeehouse.com Mint Hill Roasting Company This coffee house has been around since 2017. Something is always brewing at this micro-roasting spot, including pop-up shops, art classes and coffee with election candidates. Where: 7201 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill Details: 980-875-9584 or www.minthill roastingcompany.com Mugs Coffee Located in the Park Selwyn Terrace Shopping Center, this shop not only supports local artists but it's a popular spot for writers and other creatives to converge. But anyone can feel relaxed lounging at its tables, couches and coffee bar. Where: 5126 Park Road, Charlotte Details: 704-733-9014 or www.mugsof charlotte.com/

Noah Setzer (left) and Chris Berger look over an assortment of preroasted beans they get from small farms that are involved in cooperative business practices. Lee Noles/CMG photo

SUGAR CREEK COFFEE ROASTERS

Coffee-roasting operation continues to grow across region by Lee Noles Contributor

INDIAN TRAIL – When many people were tearing into their presents on Christmas Day, Chris Berger was delivering them. Berger co-owns Sugar Creek Coffee Roasters with Noah Setzer. While the order for the specialty roast could have waited until after the holiday, that doesn’t fit into the business’s belief. “We want everyone to feel like they are the only ones we are dealing with,” Berger said. The compassionate attitude toward others is a trademark and cor-

nerstone of a company that had its genesis when Berger and Setzer met nearly five years ago. Berger had just moved to Union County and was at a local park with his daughters when he saw Setzer playing ultimate frisbee with a few of his friends. An avid player himself, Berger struck up a conversation with the group and then started joining them for games on the weekend. The friendship grew. At dinner with their wives, they discovered a similar passion for home-brewed coffee. It was then they began to lay down the building blocks for Sugar Creek, which was formed in 2016.

The business recently enjoyed an expansion by renting out space six months ago at Sweet Union Brewery in Indian Trail to accommodate a large commercial roaster they purchased. “It’s like we are riding a Harley,” Setzer said of the large roaster the business got in August 2019. “When I look back at pictures (of roasting at home), it was like riding a bicycle with training wheels.” The process takes constant monitoring as Setzer uses his background as a science teacher at Porter Ridge High to use convection, pressure see SUGAR CREEK, Page 2B

SOSPESO COFFEE ROASTERS

Sospeso helps Bakers put down roots in Waxhaw by Lee Noles Contributor

WAXHAW – Janet Baker doesn’t see coffee as some old school energy drink quickly concocted from hot water and prepackaged, store-bought beans. The way Baker views it, coffee needs to be handled the same way a vintner creates a fine wine or torcedor rolls a quintessential cigar. Patience, care and attention to detail are the traits needed, and they are the ones Baker and her husband, Kyle, pleasantly place into each cup at the Sospeso Coffee Roasters in Waxhaw. The Bakers began the business in 2012. They moved into their current location, a quaint wood building near a 19th-century cotton mill that now see SOSPESO, Page 2B

Emma VanBibber prepares one of the many grounds of coffee Sospeso offers from places around the world. Lee Noles/CMG photo

BROUGHT TO YOU BY SUGAR CREEK (continued from page 1B)

and temperature to create the assorted flavors. After picking and weighing the beans, they are then placed into a hopper while the machine heats to more than 400 degrees. Once the roaster is at the desired temperature, the beans are dropped into the machine and continually turned until their greenish and yellowish color starts to turn darker from the heat. When the beans become roasted, they are cooled before transitioning to a bucket where they are placed into a bag that can accommodate large orders or individual consumers. “You really have to stay on top of it,” Berger said. “A couple of seconds can determine if you have a good batch or a bad one.” Customers’ needs are essential to the two as they developed a website where people create the coffee they want based on the roast level and the type of ground. They also offer free delivery in the area. Customers pay for their own distinct coffee beans either as they go, or for a month’s worth in advance. “It’s your own personal coffee of the month,” Berger said. Not wanting to lose track of their product, Setzer and Berger keep distribution limited to coffee shops and breweries around the Charlotte and Monroe area. This allows a direct contact with their sellers as well as keeping the batches fresh by replacing them monthly. Where the beans come from is just as important to Berger and Setzer as how they are roasted. Sustainable small farms that are involved in cooperative and fair-trade

practices and organic are important factors in who the two will work with. Their enjoyment of coffee is what brought them together, but it’s helping others that drives them. They make sure 100% of their sales and profit from some of the blended coffee goes to a variety of nonprofit groups. Everybody Fed provides food, education and medical care to orphan children who live in Jinja, Uganda, and benefits from the generosity of Sugar Creek. “It goes back to a love for helping people,” Berger said. “And I have been blessed in my life, and to give back is very important to me.” Educating others about what goes into making coffee is another aspect Berger and Setzer enjoy. They have a large flat-screen television above their roasting machine so people can view the stages the process goes through. They also have tastings at coffee shops where they talk about the history of the drink and how they create their products. “People think coffee is coffee,” Setzer said. “But coffee to us is like a fine wine. You can get the typical flavor on top, but underneath there could be chocolates, or there could be almonds. All of these different flavors are right there, and we want to show them to people.” Want to know more? Sugar Creek Coffee Roasters is located at 13717 E. Independence Blvd in Indian Trail. They also sell their coffee at a variety of retail locations including The Loyalist Market and Pop the Top in Matthews, as well as East Frank Superette and Kitchen in Monroe. Visit www.sugarcreekcoffee.com for details.

Regional Section • Jan. 24, 2020 • Page 2B

Sospeso employee Andrea Abraham (right) helps customers Nusrat and Syrus Haq. The shop has been at its current location since 2018. Lee Noles/CMG photo

her opinion on making coffee.” The ties to the community are not just (continued from page 1B) economically driven. Janet Baker said the business gives coffee to the local elementary houses luxury apartments and an Ameri- school when the teachers have professional can-style tapas restaurant in 2018. development. They donate proceeds to lo“It’s a great place to come and visit,” Jan- cal food banks and give coffee to a women’s et Baker said. “Family-oriented, and indoor shelter in Monroe. and outdoor seating. People know they are “We look for ways to always give back,” going to get an amazing cup of coffee.” Janet Baker said. “And it will always be a Baker never considered herself a serious core value for us.” connoisseur of coffee. Kyle claimed that tiBaker also stays up with the latest trends tle by meticulously learning to brew in the the coffee community goes through. The family kitchen while living in San Francisco. days of corporate companies dominating the Their first roaster was an industrial heat market have given way to coffee following gun Baker compared to an amplified hair a similar path as craft beers with homestyle dryer with a cylinder cover where the beans brewers developing signature flavors like were placed. They eventually upgraded fruit or chocolate. The two crafts have beto a home roaster, but still considered it a come even more intertwined as the Bakers hobby until Kyle’s marketing job relocated supply several breweries in the area with the family to Waxhaw in 2011. The couple coffee beans to use as flavoring. In turn, chose Union County for its slower pace and Sospeso has developed its own bourbon-flaresemblance to where Kyle grew up in Vir- vored coffee by taking empty liquor barrels ginia, but quickly realized the area needed they received from a company in Charlotte the specialty-style coffee they wantand regularly turn unroasted beans ed to offer. in them for several weeks until A year later, the business an enriched bourbon smell is was born as Janet and created on the beans. It’s a great place to Kyle began selling their Sospeso has also benefitcome and visit. Family product at the Waxhaw ted from a business venFarmers Market. Kyle is oriented, and indoor and ture with Baked and Temoutdoor seating. People pered, a bakery run by the involved with sourcing know they are going and selection of the orhusband and wife team to get an amazing ganic beans by using direct of Ben and Lauren Kallencup of coffee.” trade and a coffee broker to bach, who have a combined import from small growers in 25 years of experience in the • Janet Baker Africa, Asia and South and Central pastry industry. The two businessAmerica. This allows the Bakers to keep the es work together in the building and have beans as fresh as possible by staying in direct named their joint endeavor the 4th Corner contact with the farmers. Janet worked in Bakehouse and Coffee Co. public relations for high tech companies and The extra effort has paid off for the Bakbrought her background in communication ers as online responses include describing to lead sales and community outreach. the coffee as incredible or delicious, and the A connection to the community is essen- store itself as inviting. tial as Sospeso has young families with small “It means we are fulfilling the values of the children, teenagers looking for a social spot business,” Janet Baker said of the accolades. and older couples visiting the establishment. “This is an inviting place for people to come Frank Aurichio is a regular. He said the and get a great product and for us to be an kindness Janet displays is just as important integral part of the Waxhaw community.” as the abundance of coffee options he enjoys on a weekly basis. Aurichio told a story of Where to find it Janet not only giving a few quick lessons Sospeso Coffee Roasters is located at 205 on how to brew at home, she even supplied Salem St. in Waxhaw. The store is open from some beans to use. 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, “Her (coffee) is still better than mine,” and 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Satsaid Aurichio. “She puts a lot of effort into urday. It is closed on Sunday and Monday. it, and she knows what she is doing. I trust Visit www.sospesocoffee.com for details.

SOSPESO

“

Above: Noah Setzer begins the process of roasting and uses a computer program to help maintain temperature and pressure. Below: Depending on the batch, the beans can be roasted in 10 to 15 minutes. They are then filtered through a shoot prior to packaging. Lee Noles/CMG photos

The bags at Sugar Creek Coffee Roasters can be packaged for bulk or for individual consumers. Lee Noles/CMG photo

RIP to these coffee shops We're still pouring out liquor-flavored coffee for some of our recently departed shops, including Fabo Coffee Art Bar in Charlotte's Quail Hollow Shopping Center and Madison's Coffee in Indian Trail. Support local coffee houses before they lose steam.

CMPD Animal Care & Control

Orphaned Animals Available for Adoption

BEAUTY

Name: Beauty ID: A1163618 Age: 2 years Weight: 55 lbs Sex: Spayed Date of Arrival: 1/6/2020 Adoption fee: $10 plus monetary donation Vaccinations: Has all required vaccinations

Beauty and the Beast. These two are EXTREMELY bonded to each other. They are not fans of “outsiders” (other dogs) so they need a castle that they can call their own together. Sorry, these two don’t come with servants. They are friendly to with people, been around kids, and house trained. These two MUST be adopted together but their fees are waived.

BEAST

In accordance with the Union County Republic given that the Annual Precinct meeting shall be Precincts:

Date:

Thursday, Feb. 6, 2020

In accordance with the Union County Republican Plan of Organization, notice is Time: 7 pm given that the Annual Precinct meeting shall be held at theRegistration following6:30– location fo In accordance with the Union County Republican Plan of Organization, 7 pm Precinct Meeting, Precincts:

notice is hereby given that the Annual Precinct meeting shall be held at Followed by the Union GOP M the following location for all Precincts: Location

Weddington High School

Date:

Thursday, Feb. 6, 2020

Time:

Registration 6:30– 7 pm If you or any potential Republican volunteer are unable to attend the precinct

4901 Monroe-Weddington R

sentee form, available on our website uniongop.com. Please download it or re

7 pm Precinct Meeting,

chairman@uniongop.com. The absentee form must be submitted to Chairman

Followed bybethe UnionRepublican GOP Monthly Meeting You must registered by Jan 31, 2020 to be part of the precinct o Location

If you have High any questions Weddington Schoolabout this process or the Union GOP organization p Allison Powers

4901 Monroe-Weddington Rd, Matthews. Chairman, Union County Republican Party

If you or any potential Republican volunteer are unable to attend the

If you or any potential Republican volunteer areyou unable precinct meeting, you need to submit a P Name: Beast precinct meeting, needto toattend submitthe a Precinct absentee form, ID: 5251094 sentee form, available on our available website uniongop.com. Please download it ordownload request one on our website uniongop.com. Please it orfrom Age: 3 years request one from chairman@uniongop.com. The absentee form chairman@uniongop.com. Themust absentee form must be submitted toby Chairman Powers Weight: 81 lbs be submitted to Chairman Powers 5pm on Feb. 6. by 5pm on Feb. 6. Sex: Neutered You must be registered Republican Jan 31, 2020organization. to be part of the You must be registered Republican by Jan 31, 2020 to be part ofby the precinct Date of Arrival: 1/6/2020 precinct organization. Adoption fee: $10 plus monetary If youdonation have any questions about thishave process or the Union GOP please feel free to contact me. If you any questions about thisorganization process or the Union GOP Vaccinations: Has all required vaccinations organization please feel free to contact me. Allison Powers Allison Powers

8315 Byrum Drive / animals.cmpd.org / ADOPTION FEES RANGEChairman, FROM $63 TOUnion $103 County Republican Party Chairman, Union County Republican Party

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Page 3B • Jan. 24, 2020 • Regional Section

THINGS TO DO Jan. 24

Museum JAARS presents Night at the Alphabet Museum. Register in advance. The event is for ages 8 and older. 704-843-6066 6:45-8:30 p.m.; 6409 Davis Road, Waxhaw Food Truck Lobster Dog Food Truck rolls into Southern Range Brewing Company. 704-706-2978 5-9 p.m.; 151 S. Stewart St., Monroe

Jan. 25

Vinyl Night Hardy Boys Records will have a popup shop at Sweet Union Brew-

ing. 704-628-5211 Noon-3 p.m.; 13717 E. Independence Blvd., Indian Trail Couponing 101 Learn how to use digital and print coupons to your advantage in Couponing 101 at Monroe Library's Griffin Room. 704-283-8184 2 p.m.; 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe

ANSWER P A A C R C A E S K S I H A C N A G M R A B N S

O F N L A D S HI E Y T T E D L E FC O E M A TS

D C E A V S TI L O E R D I S R I N S C H SI TE A Y

S W M EA D R E R NI A S G U E S AT N O S S

lic Libraries holds its annual meeting, which includes a talk by Gene Stowe, author of “Inherit the Land.” The event is free.704-283-8184 3 p.m.; 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe Pub Poker Deuces Pub Poker organizes Texas Hold'em games at The Trail House. 7 p.m.; 6751 Old Monroe Road, Indian Trail

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

Jan. 27

Remember Holocaust The Monroe Library holds an International Holocaust Remembrance Day event for teens and their parents. 704-283-8184 4:30 p.m.; 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe

Community Theater Speed Dating Union Playmakers present “RabSwoonMe Events holds a single bit Hole” at Monroe Crossing Mall. event with live music and wine tastTickets cost $10 for adults. www. ings at Treehouse Vineyards. Get unioncountyplaymakers.org tickets at http://swoonme.love/. The New York Times Syndication Sales Corporation 2:30 p.m.; 2115 Corporation W. Roosevelt Blvd., 5-7 p.m.; 301 Bay St., Monroe 620 Eighth Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10018 Monroe Chili CookFor Off Information Call: 1-800-972-3550 Library SouthernFor Range Brewing Saturday, holds Release April Meeting 13, 2019 For Release Monday, June 24, Friends of the Union County Pubits inaugural Chili Cook Off. Tasters

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Team Trivia Team Trivia Charlotte presents team trivia at Hickory Tavern. 704238-9111

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Jan. 30

Jan. 28

Book Club The book club at Monroe Library discusses “The Sense of an Ending” by Julian Barnes. 704-283-8184 Noon; 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe Book Club The Final Draft Book Club discusses Jacqueline Woodson's “Red at the Bone” at Southern Range Brewery. 7 p.m.; 151 S. Stewart St., Monroe

Jan. 29

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

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Jan. 31

Stage Play Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts presents opening night of “Mamma Mia!” at the Matthews Community Center. Tickets cost $22 for general admission and $19 for students and seniors. Future showings are 2 & 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sunday, and 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday through Feb. 9. 704-3721000 7:30 p.m.; 100 McDowell St., Matthews

Jan. 24

Jan. 30

• Amos’ Southend: Deep Shallow w/ Matone • Beantown Tavern: Prodigal Sons • Coyote Joe’s: Chris Lane • Evening Muse: Desert Noises & Little Bird • Fillmore: The Devil Makes Three • Milestone Club: Buried in Roses w/ Wine Pride, Adam Cope & Nuns • Moochies Tavern: U-Phonik • Neighborhood Theatre: Unaka Prong, Vintage Pistols & Hustle Souls • Southern Range: RJ Adams • Stooges Pub: Black Glass • Temple Mojo: Two of Us • Trail House: Virginia Electric • Visulite: Yarn

• Amos’ Southend: Hands Like Houses, Dead American & Picturesque • Bistro D’Antonio: Will Lee • Evening Muse: Malcolm Holcombe • Lake View Grill: Jade Moore • Seaboard Brewing: Ryan Bailey

• Amos’ Southend: Danny Worsnop • Beantown Tavern: Jade Moore • Dunwellz: Music Bingo • Evening Muse: Joe Policastro Trio; The Freeway Jubilee & The Flatland Tourists • Fillmore: Matoma & Two Friends • Fox’s Alley Bowling: Monkey Time Band • Harris Teeter Wine Bar: Chuck Johnson • Mac’s Speed Shop: DistilleryCats • Neighborhood Theatre: Revelwood Mission • Pineville Tavern: Sons of Carolina • Steady Eddy’s: Nate Randall • Sweet Union: Yes Ma’am • Trail House: New Local • Treehouse Vineyards: Jacob and Forrest • Visulite: Allman Brothers tribute

Jan. 26

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Indoor Lawn Indian Trail Library explains how to build and grow an indoor lawn. 704-821-7475 5:30-6:30 p.m.; 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail

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Jan. 25

7-9 p.m.; 6455 Old Monroe Road, Indian Trail

• Amos’ Southend: The Glorious Sons • Evening Muse: Lazer Lloyd & Zachary Scott Johnson

Jan. 28 • Evening Muse: Open Mic & JD Etheridge • Fillmore: Beartooth/Motionless in White • Mia Famiglia: Music Bingo

Jan. 29 • Beantown Tavern: Chuck Johnson Duo • Trail House: Omari Duo

Charlotte Venues • Amos’ Southend: • Coyote Joe’s: 4621 Wilkinson Blvd. • Evening Muse: 3227 N. Davidson St. • Fillmore: 820 Hamilton St. • Milestone Club: • Neighborhood Theatre: 511 E. 36th St. • Visulite: 1615 Elizabeth Ave. Indian Trail • Harris Teeter Wine Bar: 4701 Smith Farm Road • Mia Famiglia: 7870 Idlewild Road • Sweet Union: 13717 E. Independence Blvd. • Trail House: 6751 Old Monroe Road Matthews • Beantown Tavern: 130 Matthews Station St. • Mac’s Speed Shop: 142 E. John St. • Moochies Tavern: 15060 Idlewild Road • Seaboard Brewing: 213 N. Trade St. • Steady Eddy’s: 2216 E. John St. • Temple Mojo: 195 N. Trade St. Mint Hill • Dunwellz: 7110 Brighton Park Drive • Stooges Pub: 13230 Albemarle Road Monroe • Fox’s Alley Bowling: 1901 Skyway Drive • Southern Range: 151 S. Stewart St. • Treehouse Vineyards: 301 Bay St. Pineville • Pineville Tavern: 314 N. Polk St. Stallings • Lake View Grill: 9750 Tournament Drive Waxhaw • Bistro D’Antonio: 3909 Providence Road South

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Regional Section • Jan. 24, 2020 • Page 4B

Comer retires but Silver Lining continues Friend, longtime customer takes over boutique in downtown Monroe by Lee Noles Contributor

MONROE – Shellee Comer began Silver Lining Boutique with nothing more than her entrepreneurial spirit, friendly demeanor and never-quit attitude as she went around Union County selling an assortment of products from her car. Her business grew to include a 2,500-square-foot building, five employees and close to 10,000 Facebook followers who anxiously waited for the shabby chic clothing, jewelry and accessories the store offered. But in December, Comer knew the time was right to retire and found the perfect buyer for the store she’d shaped for more than 20 years in friend and longtime patron Jennifer Hill. “I never really have stopped and taken a chance to look back on things,” Comer said. “I started in my car, but I was always thinking about the next thing. How can we get bigger and better? Now, looking back, I can say I lived the American Dream.” The dream began in 1998 when Comer was driving to businesses and friends’ homes selling sterling silver jewelry. A move a few years later to a 400-square-foot building near Walkup Avenue gave the business a structural foundation, but Comer was still figuring out its concept. “I really didn’t have a business plan,” Comer said. “I just knew I

liked what I was doing, and I went with what I felt was right.” The sterling silver was selling, but the business experienced a significant growth in popularity when Comer added items from Pandora as part of her inventory. “That was a game-changer,” said Comer, who moved into a larger store off U.S. 74 around the same time. “People really liked buying those items.” Things only got better as Comer made the switch to Main Street Monroe before moving to the store’s current location six years ago. The former hardware store on Hayne Street has been modernized to include chandeliers while maintaining concrete floors that are surrounded by the Bohemian decorum. “This is the best location I ever had,” Comer said. “At first, I thought I had to be on Main Street. But it gave me more room to expand. It’s a very eclectic location. … It has just been great.” It was a perfect place that was going to be empty. Comer decided she was closing the store instead of selling to anyone who she felt wasn’t going to maintain the Silver Lining reputation she developed. Her thoughts changed when Hill and her husband, Phil, approached her around Christmas with an interest in buying the place. Comer and Hill have known each other for 30 years and even sang in the church choir together. Hill reopened the store Jan. 2.

After 23 years, Shellee Comer (right) is retiring from operating Silver Lining Boutique: a business she started in her car. The popular store will remain open after friend and longtime patron Jennifer Hill (left) bought the store with her husband, Phil, in December. Lee Noles/CMG photo

“I didn’t want to see it go away,” Hill said. “For the last 10 years, I said to Shellee, ‘If you want to sell, let me know.’ And then I saw she was retiring, so I called her up and said, ‘What’s up.” Hill plans on keeping many of the items already at the store while adding a few new ones. She also has brought all the employees who worked with Comer back to help. Emmie Cook has worked at Silver Lining since last year and is glad to see it stay open. “I have always wanted to work here,” Cook said. “And when I was

able to, it was like being on cloud nine.” Comer’s next adventure involves the 1969 Airstream she bought a few years back with her husband, Terry. They initially turned the vehicle into a mobile store equipped with a changing room and clothing racks for items sold at Silver Lining. The Airstream is now being used for the antiques and redone furniture Comer has collected through the years. She intends to sell them at markets in Greensboro and Virginia and at the annual Pop-Up event in Monroe this spring.

“I’ve always liked vintage stuff,” Comer said. “I have about 18 years of accumulated stuff I have gotten at different places around the area.” What has been hard for Comer is ending her connection with Silver Lining. Comer told a story about getting an email from a customer a few days after she retired about something the store was selling. Without thinking, Comer emailed them to try and help find what they needed. “’Oh, dang,” Comer said after realizing she’s no longer the owner. “Sorry. What can I say? It’s a habit.”

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Regional Section • Jan. 24, 2020 • Page 5B

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BROUGHT TO YOU BY • Go Go Empenada, 11229 E. Independence Blvd. – 94.5 • Mac's Speed Shop, 142 E. John St. – 94 • Moe's Original Bar B Que, 111 Matthews Station St. – 94.5 • Sub Station II, 11500 E. Independence Blvd. – 93.5

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Health departments in1 Mecklenburg and Union counties inspected these restaurants Jan. 10 to 16: Lowest Score • Carniceria Morelos, 1510 Miller St., Monroe – 85.5 Violations include: Employee health policy wasn't in place for five reportable diseases or symptoms of diseases; employees didn't wash hands before putting on gloves; sink had no soap; and pans and utensils had dried meat debris on them. Indian Trail • Food Lion (deli), 7876 Idlewild Road – 99.5 • Food Lion (produce), 7876 Idlewild Road – 98 • Food Lion (meat market), 7876 Idlewild Road – 100 • Great China, 610 S. Indian Trail Road – 97.5 • Harris Teeter (meat/seafood), 6610 Old Monroe Road – 99 • Hickory Tavern, 6455 Old Monroe Road – 94 • Quik Trip, 5650 W. U.S. 74 – 93.5 • Rossini's Pizza Pasta, 13803 U.S. 74 W. – 99 • The Trail House, 6751 Old Monroe Road – 98 Matthews • Carrabba's Italian Grill, 10400 E. Independence Blvd. – 94 • China Express II , 3607 Matthews-Mint Hill – 95

Monroe • Buffalo Wild Wings, 2109 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 100 • Captain D's, 1301 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 99 • Carniceria Morelos, 1510 Miller St. – 85.5 • CiCi's Pizza, 1951 Dickerson Blvd. – 90 • Food Lion (produce), 250 N. Martin Luther King Blvd. – 96.5 • Food Lion (meat market), 2118 Roosevelt Blvd. – 100 • Food Lion (produce), 2118 Roosevelt Blvd. – 98.5 • Food Lion (deli), 2118 Roosevelt Blvd. – 98.5 • Franklin Court Grille, 232 E. Franklin St. – 98.5 • Sunny Food Express, 1800 Walk Up Ave. – 95 • Taco Bell, 401 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 100 • Taqueria Monarcas, 402 Patton Ave. – 93 • Walmart, 2406 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 95 • Wendy's, 1245 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 90 Stallings • Quality Inn and Suites Kitchen, 12047 Guion Lane – 96.5 Waxhaw • BP/Fill Good, 2538 Cuthbertson Road – 94 • Circle K, 601 E. N. Main St. – 94.5

Regional Section • Jan. 24, 2020 • Page 6B

One chilling expedition ‘Antarctic Dinosaurs’ arrives at Discovery Place Science on Feb. 8 CHARLOTTE – “Antarctic Dinosaurs,” a new exhibition arriving at Discovery Place Science on Feb. 8, transports visitors back in time to discover what life was like in Antarctica 200 million years ago. The traveling exhibition was developed by the Field Museum in Chicago in partnership with Discovery Place, Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County and the Natural History Museum of Utah. The exhibition guides visitors through what was once a lush, green and thriving continent where dinosaurs freely roamed. Guests will discover fossils from four Antarctic dinosaur species, including the 25-foot long Cryolophosaurus, and get hands-on experience with tools used by paleontologists to extract fossils from the now frozen landscape. “Antarctic Dinosaurs” also focuses on the working conditions of scientists in these expeditions to the continent today. The research and experiences featured in the exhibit also shed new light on the planet’s ever-changing climate and geology. Several special events and activities

will take place throughout the run (Feb. 8 to May 25) of “Antarctic Dinosaurs.” Feb. 8: Fossil Day Celebrate opening day of the exhibit with activities on fossilization, and cold weather exploration. Guests can excavate fossils, suit up in cold weather gear and meet research scientists from the exhibit and IMAX film. Ongoing: Sustainability Saturdays Join the museum in Explore More Life every second Saturday as it investigates a facet of sustainability. Feb: 21-22: An Extreme Overnight Adventure Adults (21 and older) are invited to spend the night at the museum as it embarks on an expedition. This twist on the monthly Science on the Rocks event will include lively Antarctic activities, including winter suit races and an ice luge. March 24: National Geographic Live Explore the polar extremes at “National Geographic Live: Into the Arctic Kingdom,” where photographer Florian Schulz will discuss his multi-year quest to document the Arctic. May 2-3: Antarctic Overnight Expedition Families are invited to spend the

Visitors to Antarctic Dinosaurs will come face to face with a full-scale fleshed out replication of Cryolophosaurus. Photo courtesy of Blue Rhino Studio night at the museum with a sleepover tailored to give adults and children a glimpse into Antarctic expeditions. They’ll learn about Antarctic dinosaurs and how the landscape of Antarctica has changed. Ongoing: IMAX film The IMAX film, “Dinosaurs of Antarctica.” explores a world of bug-eyed giants and egg-laying mammals, where survival means enduring the sunless, six-month polar winter surrounded by meat-eaters with night vision. Visit www.science.discoveryplace. org or call 704-372-6261 for tickets.

Opinion: Oscar nominations could use more women by Kayla Berenson kayla@cmgweekly.com

Forget winter, spring, summer or fall. Award season tops the list of my favorite seasons. From the red carpet glamor to the funny hosts and heartfelt acceptance speeches, award shows are some of the most entertaining content on television. “Snub” is heard just about every time Oscar nominations roll around. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has faced criticism in the past for its lack of diversity in nominees. It has definitely gotten better since the hashtag #OscarsSoWhite trended on Twitter, but there is still some major room for improvement, especially when it comes to female representation in top categories. The most talked-about snub in the 2020

list of nominations is the absence of a female nominee for the best director category. And it deserves to be talked about more. Though nearly one-third of nominees were women, none of them were in the director category. A film’s director oversees the entire production of the film, making sure it runs smoothly. They are the key person responsible for bringing a film from the script to the screen. It takes a good leader with a creative vision to do this job. It shouldn’t be taken lightly. Martin Scorsese (“The Irishman”), Todd Phillips (“Joker), Sam Mendes (“1917”), Quentin Tarantino (“Once Upon A Time In Hollywood”) and Bong Joon-ho (“Parasite”) are all deserving of their nominations. But where is Greta Gerwig for “Little Women?” Where is Kasi Lemmons for “Harriet?” The list goes on of some of this year’s best films, all directed by women.

You might say, “Kayla, a South Korean director is on that list, Doesn’t that make it diverse enough?” Yes, it is wonderful to have a foreign movie nominated and recognize the importance of great films in other countries. I think the Academy recognizing Joon-ho for his excellent work in “Parasite” is a great step in the right direction in diversifying the list of nominees and he absolutely deserves to be on the list, but let’s not forget the wonderful, female-directed films of the year. The biggest disappointment for me is Gerwig getting snubbed for “Little Women.” As someone who read and adored Louisa May Alcott’s novel as a young girl, the film adaption meant a lot to me. Gerwig’s direction of the adaption was absolutely perfect and better than I could have imagined. I am glad two of the film’s actors were nominated for awards and the film was included in the

“Best Picture” nominations, but the Academy ignoring Gerwig’s directing capability is inexcusable. Getting back to the bigger picture, only five women have ever been nominated for this category. Only one woman has won. Something’s not adding up here. Female-driven stories are coming to light in media. Movies and TV shows like “Bombshell” and “The Morning Show” tell real stories of sexual abuse in the workplace. “Hustlers” followed a group of female exotic dancers who made a fortune by stealing from the club’s intoxicated patrons. “Harriet” told the story of Harriet Tubman. Though not all of these films and television shows were directed by women, they are empowering and paint women in a positive light. Hollywood’s creators are moving in the right direction when it comes to representation. It’s time for the Academy to keep up.

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