INSIDE: Readers react to town hall drama • Page 2A
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Flip to page 1B BY THE UNION COUNTY WEEKLY
Friday, Jan. 24, 2020 • Vol. 1 • No. 3
ABOUT US P.O. BOX 1104 Matthews, NC 28106 (704) 849-2261 justin@cmgweekly.com unioncountyweekly.com
Sandy Hook parent prioritizes social-emotional learning, safety in run for school board by Kayla Berenson kayla@cmgweekly.com
Claudia Sandoval’s life was forever changed when her children became survivors of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in 2012. She chose to end her 12-year Sandoval veterinarian 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
WHAT'S INSIDE:
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 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. “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 see SANDOVAL, Page 3A
Indian Trail needs a
REBOOT
Couple wins We recognize small business winners, 5A
Common Heart’s Hunger Walk fundraiser supports programs that include food banks, a thrift shop and various economic empowerment workshops. Photo courtesy of Mnemosyne Studio
Poverty simulation a chance to understand
Craft coffee Area roasters get a taste of growth, 1B
They're chilling Antarctic dinosaurs are coming, 6B
Justin Vick
Alfaro helps seniors stay on the road, 6A
see REBOOT, Page 3A
see POVERTY, Page 3A
Top: A view outside of town hall. Fortunately, there have been no mobs with pitchforks. Above: Who will sit in the town manager seat at the end of the town's investigation into Manager Patrick Sadek? Kayla Berenson/ITW photos
Managing Editor
Mobility
him three years later. Joe Fivas took over in 2010 and left on his own accord in 2015 right after the town election. Mayor Pro Tem David Cohn told me at the time that Fivas left because he "saw the handwriting on the wall." Scott Kaufhold was promoted in 2016 and fired the next year. Based on this knowledge, it seems to me like the town manager should elevate consensus-building as the top priority. It should start with the town council, continue with the town staff and spread throughout the community. The manager needs clear objectives
INDIAN TRAIL – Brian Cross sums up his experience in a poverty simulation in one word – stressful. Cross, who serves as a board member for Community Heart, took on the role of a 9-year-old girl in a struggling family. “Over all my life experiences I've never gone through anything like that,” he said. “There's a lot of weight that was put on that 9-year-old girl that she was really having to act as an adult to help her family navigate around and not enjoying her youth. This simulation allows you to sit in their shoes and see what they're going through and what they're stressed about.” Poverty is often portrayed as a standalone issue, but this simulation allows individuals to walk a month in the shoes of someone who is facing poverty and realize
I
don't know what is happening or what will happen to Indian Trail Town Manager Patrick Sadek. Since we learned the town council voted to place him on administrative leave as a third-party investigator snoops around, we've reached out to people for information and requested some records. So far, nothing.
Regardless of the outcome of this investigation, I don't think Indian Trail can go back to business as usual. In other words, regardless of whether Sadek is retained, fired or resigns as town manager, Indian Trail government needs to regain the trust of its citizens. I'm not jumping to conclusions here. I'm not accusing Sadek or the current town council of making any mistakes, but the town doesn't have a good track record when it comes to the relationship between manager and council. The council hired Ed Humphries as the first full-time manager in town history in 2006 only to fire
Deese to lead Forest Hills football team Expansion Assisted stretching is catching on, 3A
INDEX Dining Scores................................................. 6B Classifieds..............................................................5B Readers Respond.................................. 2A Calendar....................................................................3B Loud&Live.............................................................3B Sports.............................................................................. 4A Arts & Entertainment....................... 1B Puzzles.........................................................................3B
by Andrew Stark andrew@cmgweekly.com
Forest Hills announced the hiring of Jammie Deese as its new head football coach on Jan. 14. Deese was serving as the offensive coordinator at the University of West Florida, an upstart program that won the Division II National Championship this past season. He left the program after his wife, Brandi, took a job as Indian Trail’s director of planning last June, so he was out of football last season. Deese joined the West Florida staff in 2014 as the first coordinator hire for the new program. In the team’s inaugural season in 2016, the Argonauts averaged more than 400 yards per game
and over 300 yards passing. During the team's run to the Division II national runner-up in 2017, Deese's offense averaged 343 yards. After moving to Indian Trail with his wife and to help his kids transition to their new school district, Deese said he’s ready to get back into the game. “I prayed about it, and it’s faith and family for me, so it was the right decision to come back to Indian Trail,” he said. “I was an assistant at
see DEESE, Page 4A
Forest Hills football coach Jammie Deese has experience on the offensive side of the football and building programs at the collegiate level. Photo courtesy of Forest Hills High School
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Page 2A • Indian Trail Weekly • Jan. 24, 2020
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Reactions to stories recently published in Indian Trail Weekly
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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 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.
PRESIDENT Jonathan McElvy
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/ITW photo
PUBLISHER Adrian Garson adrian@cmgweekly.com
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BUSINESS MANAGER Rebecca Jensen rjensen@cmgweekly.com
• Indian Trail council votes to investigate town manager • Indian Trail town manager envisions downtown sports stadium • Indian Trail mayor excited about third term • 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
Trouble in town hall
Town manager under investigation, placed on paid administrative leave, 2A
by Kayla Berenson
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Indian Trail
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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SPORTS EDITOR Andrew Stark andrew@cmgweekly.com CONTENT PRODUCER Kayla Berenson kayla@cmgweekly.com
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Town manager envisions sports stadium (Jan. 17) Putting a stadium at that park would be the worst decision the town could make. The town is in desperate need of more public parks and putting a stadium there would take away the only public field they have. – Jay Tryon via Facebook
ART DIRECTOR Kylie Sark art@cmgweekly.com
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Hopefully this is a wakeup call to really “clean house” and get the trash out including those directors that stand with him or have been spineless pawns in his game. I welcome the changes ahead!! – via BOBitsABoy via web No surprise the mayor had no comment. Why is the mayor pro-tem the point man? – David Loughran via web
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• “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)
manner in which he was told of his departure, that is common practice. Cigna closed and entire business in Charlotte we got an email a short meeting about our benefits and an escort to our car. He should be happy he was paid and not fired in this right to work state. I am so sorry we built our home in IT. – Jill via web
What buyer has $20 to $30 million laying around? For that price what else will the buyer expect to get for their money? A football stadium that will cost more than the $10 million Town Hall, the $8.5 million Park Bond, and don't forget about the original $10 million bond for the Old Monroe Rd widening which is now $5 million. Yet, no money for a Miracle League baseball field for disabled children. Isn't there an article Mr. Sadek was being investigated? – Michael Faulkenberry via Facebook Why would the town build this and what need would it fulfill? NFL and MLS are always going to be in Uptown Charlotte – Tepper has said that. This seems like a terrible idea on the surface. Unless you have a team committed to play in the stadium, it’s just going to sit empty – other than youth sports or high school championship games. – Brian via web
They are all corrupt in IT. They have no vision of what Indian Trail should look like. Lets build fast food restaurants and multi-family homes. – Jt via web Don't send him home with pay. Clean the swamp – Mike Smith via web As someone who quit working for Indian Trail within the past two years, I can tell you that this investigation is way past due. The harassment, paranoia, bipolarism and intimidation was allowed to continue for far too long, and I can only imagine what must have happened to finally cause council to act when they’ve been ignoring this for years. For the love of god, town council members, please hire an experienced manager and put a process in place to allow staff to submit their concerns to you or the town attorney so this doesn’t happen again. – Sarah Southland Editor: We want to strengthen ties to town • Page 3A
Indian Trail BY THE UNION COUNTY WEEKLY
Friday, Jan. 10, 2020 • Vol. 1 • No. 1
ABOUT US P.O. BOX 1104 Matthews, NC 28106 (704) 849-2261 justin@cmgweekly.com unioncountyweekly.com
ART CLASSES
Fun center bums out some neighbors Facility to include bowling, laser tag, bumper cars by Kayla Berenson kayla@cmgweekly.com
INDIAN TRAIL – Brandon Oaks residents living on Spanish Moss Road left the Dec. 18 town council meeting less than excited about the approval of a family fun center across from their homes. The center, which will include bowling lanes, laser tag, bumper cars and arcade games, will be built across the St. from Sun Valley Commons by The Moser Group. The conditional zoning was approved 4-1 by the
council, with Mike Head voting in opposition. The property, originally zoned for single-family residential homes, is being sold by the owner, requiring the council to rezone it for a general business district. Planning Director Brandi Deese said the rezoning complies see FUN, Page 5A
Right: The Moser Group wants to rezone 8.9 acres in Sun Valley Station for a potential bowling alley. Neighbors expressed concerns to the town council about noise. Photo courtesy of Town of Indian Trail
GOVERNMENT
Putting in the work Town manager shares vision for Indian Trail's future by Kayla Berenson kayla@cmgweekly.com
WHAT'S INSIDE:
Joe makes it jolly
'Fake News' Rumors spread about water rate hike, 3A
Ongoing Stories 5 storylines to watch unfold this year, 1B
Campaign 2020 County races will see familiar faces, 4A
Joseph Brundrett helps connect children with age-appropriate gifts through Joe's Jolly Elves. Photo courtesy of Claire Brundrett
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INDIAN TRAIL – Indian Trail Town Manager Patrick Sadek spends 14 hours a day and weekends at his job. Every day for the last two and a half years in his role, Sadek has worked with town staff and elected officials Sadek to ensure Indian Trail’s needs are met and everything runs smoothly. “It’s exciting,” Sadek said. “As you grow older, I think you start liking your job better. You appreciate what you have. The town has really treated me well, so I want to give something in return. We have a great staff and I’m very proud and blessed. Every day is a good day.” Sadek has worked in government for 27 years and in planning and engineering for 32 years. He is originally from Lebanon and has an engineering degree from UNC Charlotte. Before taking this job, Sadek was a city engineer in Myrtle Beach. He also previously worked for the City of Charlotte. Sadek puts a lot of faith in his staff. He is selective when picking staff and wants employees from various backgrounds to contribute to their business culture. Most of his day is spent interacting with and managing his staff. “The town manager is the staff and the staff is the town manager,” Sadek said. “They work together. When you ask me a question about myself, I could never exclude my staff because they’re a part of it.”
by Kayla Berenson . kayla@cmgweekly.com
As a mom, my big takeaway is that I’m just so amazed by the power of kids. When kids in the community are given the access and the opportunity, the impact is immeasurable." • Claire Brundrett
INDIAN TRAIL – Joseph Brundrett walked into a town council meeting with a list of 15 children who needed Christmas presents. He left the meeting with commitments to help from a dozen people. Brundrett, a high school senior, spent this holiday season partnering with Cindy’s Hope Chest, a nonprofit run by Cindy Summers through his project, Joe’s Jolly Elves. Cindy’s Hope Chest works with women battling breast cancer. Summers compiled a list of more than 35 children whose mothers were battling breast cancer this holiday season. Brundrett asked the Indian Trail community to rally together to provide gifts for them. “It is a really hard thing to go through, especially when you have kids and you’re sick and worried about what to do and make sure they get what they need,” Summers said. “But a lot of times, you’re not feeling well and financially, you might be tight, so it’s really cool to see kids who care about this.” Summers gives Brundrett the names of the children, along with their ages and clothing sizes. This way, Brundrett can make sure each child gets something that is age-appropriate and something they really want, rather than a generic gift. see JOLLY, Page 5A
Great more taxpayer boondoggles. – Jason Todd via Facebook
Tassel Turn
The Trail House remains on Queen's Feast roster
Restaurant joins 140+ others for week-long event
Grads ready for next chapter, 4B
INDEX
Actual people who live in Indian Trail do NOT want to see this happen. The apartments, hotel, expansion. In the end WE the people don’t matter. So sad. – Jo via web Who wants that. U guys are crazy. Stick to Union County, and stay out of big league sports, dumb dumb. Just more taxes to be put on locals. – Kelly Britt via web
February 13th, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. February is Healthy Heart Month. To celebrate we’re offering warm cups of tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches. Stop in for lunch and enjoy a tour of our senior living community and learn about the lifestyle we provide.
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Council votes to investigate town manager (Jan. 15) I find this very disturbing that a man arrives at his work to have an email tell him he is on leave. No explanation, no comment. This with neither the mayor nor the mayor pro-tem having the guts to face the employee and give the details face–to–face. I am distressed that the board would allow such callous behavior. Too bad we weren’t the election wasn’t coming up – I certainly would not vote for either of these men. But I will remember for the next time! – Lynn M Brod via web Those of you that are appalled regarding the
see WORK, Page 6A
FOOD & DRINK
Crime............................................................................... 6A Classifieds.............................................................5B Schools .......................................................................4B Calendar.................................................................. 6B Loud&Live ........................................................... 6B News Briefs........................................................ 2A Sports.............................................................................2B Puzzles ....................................................................... 6B
The Trail House has been a regular on the Charlotte Restaurant Week roster for a while now. Kayla Berenson/ITW photo
INDIAN TRAIL – Queen's Feast: Charlotte Restaurant Week returns Jan. 17 to 26 with more than 140 restaurants, including The Trail House, offering three-course dinners for $30 or $35 per person. The Trail House will give diners their choice of entrees, including Filet Medallions, Salmon, Shrimp Scampi Fettuccine, Winter Pork Chops and Trail House Pasta, which includes blackened chicken, roasted vegetables and Cajun cream sauce. Appetizers include Pimento Cheese Balls, Cheesesteak Eggrolls and Fried Pickles. Mason Jar Desserts will be available at the end of the meal.
Since 2008, the semi-annual promotion has helped introduce foodies to restaurants across the region, including establishments in Mecklenburg, Union, Cabarrus, Rowan, Iredell, Lincoln, Gaston, Catawba, Lancaster and York counties. Charlotte Restaurant Week is designed to drive trial business at mid- to high-end restaurants by extending a good value to diners as incentive to experience their menus. The 10-day promotion helps the restaurant industry during normally slower periods. The January 2020 event features more than a see FEAST, Page 4A
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Town manager shares vision for future (Jan. 10) OK, so Indian Trail has grown, that’s great! BUT WHEN ARE YOU GOING TO DO THE ROAD WORK? All these new subdivisions, fast food joints, restaurants on most of the roads that haven’t been updated in the 52 years I’ve lived here. I have lived in the Sun Valley area for 20 years. Now I can’t wait to move out. The traffic is unbearable and with no resolution in sight. Yea they’re supposed to widen Wesley Chapel Stouts Road and Sardis Church Road. I still don’t think that will help. Yes, we’ve grown up but at what cost! I’ve lived in Indian Trail since 1967. Now...I want out! I live 9.6 miles from where I work in downtown Matthews. It takes me 40 minutes to get to work. You used to be able to get out and just drive the country roads. No more! – LB via web
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Indian Trail Weekly • Jan. 24, 2020 • Page 3A
SANDOVAL (continued from page 1A)
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 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 one area. Throughout her campaign, she plans to attend various events and get to know as many people as possible. She plans to continue to get her name out there and hear all voters’
REBOOT (continued from page 1A)
and expectations from the board. From there, the manager needs to have clear objectives and expectations for his staff. Since employee morale was a hot topic during the Fivas administration, I would pay special attention to workload and whether staff leaves work feeling fulfilled. Transparency is paramount. In fact, Indian Trail should go above and beyond when it comes to interacting and sharing information with the public (as long as it's within the law). Indian Trail needs to communicate its long-term vision more often and refer back to it on a regular basis. Elected leaders need to continuously check the community's pulse through outreach to determine if and
POVERTY (continued from page 1A)
how complex and interconnected the issues of poverty really are. Common Heart’s Advocates for Change program will present another Community Action Poverty Simulation from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Feb. 18 at the Department of Human Services, 2330 Concord Ave. in Monroe. Families who are living in poverty, or have experienced poverty, are also encouraged to attend and share their experiences. Register for the free event at www.Poverty. CommonHeart.org. Students are welcome. Missouri Community Action Network developed the simulation as an experience to break down stereotypes by allowing participants to step into the real-life situations of others. Participants will spend a simulated month in the poverty experienced by our community's individuals and families. This interactive event promotes poverty awareness, increases understanding and inspires local change to
concerns. This, she believes, will make her a better candidate as well as a better representative. She hopes that all students feel recognized by the board and feel that the board is on their side. She plans to showcase that from the at-large perspective. “For me, advocating for all children as I feel like I’ve done with safety and with social-emotional learning and seeing my own experiences with my own children with what they’re going through with the stresses and anxiety of testing and other things, I really want to focus on empowering children to invest in their own education and feel like we’re investing in them as well,” Sandoval said. “I want all children to feel like they deserve this bright future and they’re capable of amazing things.” Sandoval is the only Democrat in this race, running against Republicans Todd Price and Sarah May. However, she does not think her political party affiliation should sway voters one way or another. She prefers to separate herself in terms of what she can bring to the board, rather than her political party. “That day I experienced tragedy, it didn’t matter what political party you were from,” Sandoval said. “For me, what separates me from the others is my passion toward ensuring that all kids have a bright, successful future. I don’t focus on party because I care about all of our kids.” She also believes her previous veterinary experience allows her to bring unique skills to the board as a creative problem-solver. She plans to use her passion for kids, community and education to advocate for the policies that matter most. “When I’m elected and when I serve on the Union County Board of Education, people of Union County will get a tireless advocate for our children’s education because I’m dedicated to every student having a bright future,” Sandoval said. when the vision and guiding principles need to be revised. Last week, our sister newspaper, The Weekly Waxhaw, published a story about Waxhaw's latest town manager search. Like Indian Trail, Waxhaw hired its first town manager in 2006. Michael McLaurin stayed on until 2014. Since then, the town has hired quality replacements in Warren Wood and Greg Ferguson, who both left after a couple of years for bigger gigs. I get the sense from the community that a transformational leader is necessary. Keeping one long enough is tough. I'm sure part of the pressure that Indian Trail and Waxhaw leaders face is the result of trying to manage a limited amount of resources for towns that are growing faster than everyone else. That's where company culture can really help these towns.
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.” Hitzemann hires and trains flexologists in the art of assisted stretching. Each flexologist 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. “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. Hitzemann said he often hears referrals from existing customers. A customer on this day had come in because of good word-of-mouth advertising from a man’s sister-in-law, who was a regular. 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. “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.”
rethink poverty. “Before you automatically dismiss people or think they're lazy or ungrateful, walk in someone's shoes and attend this simulation,” Cross said. “It makes you feel grateful for what you have and hopefully makes you think about helping people more.” Help fight hunger Preparations are underway for Common Heart’s third annual Hunger Walk, a walk-athon style fundraiser that encourages participants to create or join a team of walkers and collect donations from family and friends prior to the event. The walk spans a three-mile course from 2 to 4 p.m. March 1 at Crooked Creek Park. Shorter distances are available. Prizes will be awarded to top teams. Individuals who raise at least $250 will also receive prizes. Register at www.CommonHeartHunger Walk.org. The $25 registration donation includes a T-shirt. A kick-off pizza party will be held Feb. 8 at 2 p.m. at Indian Trail United Methodist Church for anyone interested in participating.
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.
ATTENTION INDIAN TRAIL RESIDENTS Bulk & E Waste Pick Up
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.
Items are picked up curbside on regularly scheduled recycle day
Information about lake level is available online at duke-energy.com/lakes or by calling 800.899.4435.
If you have any questions regarding what is accepted and how to prepare items please call GB USA at 704-708-5872 or Indian Trail Town Hall at 704-821-5401
See scheduled picked up dates below: *No reservations Required*
ORANGE RECYCLE WEEK- FEBRUARY 3 – 8 GREEN RECYCLE WEEK- FEBRUARY 10 – 14
Also, the list of acceptable and unacceptable items is online at www.indiantrail.org on the solid waste page
Page 4A • Indian Trail Weekly • Jan. 24, 2020
HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS
Sun Valley boys stand out among town's basketball teams by Andrew Stark andrew@cmgweekly.com
INDIAN TRAIL – The Sun Valley boys basketball team won six of seven entering their matchup with rival Cuthbertson on Jan. 21 to position themselves right in the thick of the Southern Carolinas race. With seniors abound and balanced scoring helping to pave the way, the Spartans improved to 11-7 overall and 4-3 in the league with a 71-46 beatdown of Marvin Ridge on Jan. 17. The Spartans are led by senior Justin Morton (14.2 points and 3.2 assists), but have four players averaging double figures including fellow seniors Raheem Howard (12.4 points), Michael Grovnaz (10.2 points) and Taeshaun Walker (10.0 points). Senior Malachi Clyburn (3.8 points) rounds out the starting lineup with seniors Joe Flucus (2.9 points) and Isaiah Threatt (2.4 points) contributing nightly. The upcoming two-week stretch with Cuthbertson, Weddington and Charlotte Catholic is a tough one that will decide how the Spartans fare. An interesting note on their season: The Spartans are just 4-5 in games decided by less than 10 points, but they have played in just as many blowouts with the Spartans going 7-2 in instances where the score is 10 points or more either way. Since Dec. 6, the Spartans are 8-3 overall, but only one game – a six-point loss to conference leader Weddington – has been decided by 10 or fewer points out of those 11. Here's how other teams fared through Jan. 20: Sun Valley girls While the Sun Valley boys are peaking, the Spartan girls are headed in the other direction with losses in six of their seven conference games this season, a 4-11 overall
Sun Valley’s Joe Flucus shoots a shot over the outstretched arm of Cuthbertson defender Tyrell Dawson. Flucus came off the bench and provided a big spark in Sun Valley’s 61-56 road win that gives the Spartans seven wins in their past eight games. Andrew Stark/ITW photo
record and losses in each of the previous four games. The Spartans are facing a tough stretch with conference leader Cuthbertson, Weddington and Charlotte Catholic, who are all in the mix for the conference title, all looming in the near future. There have been some bright spots, starting with junior Jalynn Carter and freshman Jade Clowney. Porter Ridge boys The Porter Ridge boys (9-7 overall, 3-3 Southwestern 4A) are young and full of promise. With one of the city’s best point guards, the Pirates are knocking on the door. Junior Marcus Willis (19.0 points, 4.6 assists, 4.0 rebounds and 2.7 steals) is in an elite class of
DEESE (continued from page 1A)
UNC Pembroke and was very familiar with Forest Hills then. They always had a ton of talent that could run around, and I’ve actually sat in on some playoff games when I was still at UNC Pembroke.” Deese’s offensive expertise and attention to detail in the weight room were two qualities that made him attractive, and it couldn’t come at a better time. This past season, the Yellow Jackets averaged just 17.7 points per game, the lowest of any Forest Hills team since 1983. “There has been a lot of athletic success at Forest Hills recently in terms of soccer, in terms of basketball and cheer. There’s no reason we can’t have that same success here,” Deese said. “The key to building a program is culture … For me, coming in with the success that I’ve had it’s because the culture is what drives it. This is what we’re doing, this is how we’re doing and I’m holding you
playmakers. Sophomore Isaiah Williams (10.8 points), freshman Dilen Miller (10.2 points) and sophomore Aaron Hough (8.7 points) form the nucleus of a team that is on the rise. Porter Ridge girls The Porter Ridge girls (5-10 overall, 2-4 conference) are winning the games they should although they are improving. Freshman Jyana Salton has been a big bright spot for the Pirates, as she leads the team with 13.0 points, 5.6 rebounds and 3.3 steals per game. Porter Ridge has winnable games against Garinger, East Meck and Rocky River, but the Pirates will have to play conference heavy-
weights of Butler, Myers Park, Independence and Hickory Ridge as well. Metrolina boys The Metrolina boys basketball team has won two straight in the Metrolina Athletics Conference, but at 11-13 overall and 4-5 in conference, they are on the outside looking up at Concord First Assembly, which has a state championship-type team. The Warriors have their own stars in senior Drew Patterson (13.1 points, 4.1 rebounds and 2.7 assists) and junior Camden Johnson (13.0 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 2.1 steals). They should make the ultra-competitive playoff field but will need to get hot to do much damage there.
accountable for those things. We’re going to All-Star Game as a high school senior. seek excellence in it every day. He later went on to star at Wake Forest, “Everybody has X’s and O’s and runs simi- where he was a four-year starter at wide relar schemes, but the successful programs win ceiver and a member of the Demon Deacons’ with culture. That’s what I’m looking to es- nationally recognized track program. tablish and get going.” On the field, Deese finished Deese takes over for Cory his collegiate career with 184 Smith, who resigned last catches for 2,348 yards and month after four seasons 11 touchdowns. Everybody has X’s and leading the Yellow JackHe would go on to O’s and runs similar ets. Smith posted an sign as a free agent 11-34 record over three with the Washington schemes, but the seasons at the school, Redskins and spent time successful programs win including this past fall in NFL Europe, the Arewith culture. That’s what when Forest Hills went na Football League and in I’m looking to establish 4-7 overall, 1-3 in conferthe National Indoor Footand get going.” ence and failed to qualify ball League. • Jammie Deese for the playoffs for the fourth Deese began his coaching castraight season. reer as a graduate assistant under curDeese is just the fourth Yellow Jack- rent National Coach of the Year Pete Shinnet coach since at least 1974 joining Smith ick, the current West Florida coach, when (2016-19), John Lowery (1986-2015) and Shinnick was at UNC Pembroke. Deese Algie Faircloth (1974-1985). joined the coaching staff full time in 2010 Deese is a Scotland County native who and was promoted from receivers coach to placed in the Shrine Bowl and the East-West offensive coordinator in 2013.
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Metrolina girls One glance at the Metrolina Christian girls team and its lackluster 9-10 overall record doesn’t tell the whole story as the Warriors are 6-2 in MAC play and just two games back of undefeated Concord First Assembly. The Warriors had to figure some things out as they started the season with a 1-7 record but have rebounded to win eight of the next 11 games. The Warriors play just three upperclassmen among their top nine girls, leaving five freshmen and two sophomores in the mix. Junior Emily Walters leads the team with 12.1 points per game, but its youth, exuberance and good play of late have them looking to continue their late push into the playoffs.
Under Deese’s leadership, the Braves compiled a record of 50-24 with two NCAA tournament appearances in his seven years. UNCP had the ninth best rushing offense in Division II under his watch in 2009. In his first year as an offensive coordinator in 2013, Deese and the Braves’ offense had the ninth best passing offense in the nation. Deese graduated with his bachelor’s degree in sociology from Wake Forest in 2000 and earned his master’s in sports administration from UNC Pembroke in 2009. He comes to Forest Hills with his wife and their two daughters, Myah and Jersey. He said this is where he wants to be, and he’s excited to get it going on and off the field. “Winning is more than winning football games,” he said. “I’m going to judge my kids on their success in the classroom, getting their degree and walking away ready for college if they want to go, but have them ready for life and work. That’s what’s going to drive our program.”
Indian Trail Weekly • Jan. 24, 2020 • Page 5A
2019 SMALL BUSINESS PERSON AWARDS
Education, training propel McClintocks to success by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com
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 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.
Rising Stars 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, Nikki Bourgeault and Laura Budd won Rising Star awards. Each opened a new business in recent years. 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 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. Bourgeault held back tears as she credited her husband for his encouragement. “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.” Weaver | Budd Law formed in 2017 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.” Other winners Kimberly Gossage, of Garrity and Gossage in Matthews, received the Community 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
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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.”
Kim and Rob McClintock are recognized during Charlotte Media Group's 2019 Small Business Person of the Year program. Justin Vick/ITW photo
Award Winners • Small Business Person of the Year: Rob & Kim McClintock • Community Impact Award: Kimberly Gossage • Most Nominations: Dr. Michael Smith • Rising Star: Nikki Bourgeault, Laura Budd & Dr. Susan Bonilla • Man About Town: Barry Steiger • Miss Congeniality: Julie Fox
Go Deeper More coverage of this story can be found on our social media platforms. Just search for @itncweekly 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
Page 6A • Indian Trail Weekly • 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 star review, but when you go to a phone interview with the We really treat our reviews, it’s paragraphs of customer, then go to their lo- our customers what has transpired and how cation and give a presentation like family. That’s they were treated and what we on the vehicle that would be why people keep did for them,” Alfaro said. best for them. He said the company serves coming back.” He said it is a very personalmany members of the veteran • Mike Alfaro ized process. community and is involved “It’s very detailed and it’s a very intimate with local charities. Recently, Ilderton starttransaction,” Alfaro said. “We’re really learn- ed a new service called the Care Program, ing about the client as far as the nature of which Alfaro compared to AAA, but with their disability. There’s different types of con- even more. The service will pick up the Ilderversions, so not every conversion is going to ton vehicle in the event that it breaks down be the best fit for that one specific person.” and send a paratransit vehicle to pick up the Though Alfaro has many stories of cus- driver and transport them to wherever they tomers who have been impacted by Ilder- need to go. ton’s services, he distinctly remembers delivHe said the company strives to go the exering a vehicle to a grown man in tears when tra mile in all aspects. his vehicle arrived. “We really treat our customers like famThe man said he was excited to finally be ily,” Alfaro said. “That’s why people keep able to go to the grocery store again. coming 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.
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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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Arts Entertainment t to you By h g u Bro
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
BROUGHT TO YOU BY
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
Edited by Will Shortz
Crossword ACROSS ACROSS 1 Wideto open, as 1 “Go Hades!” the mouth 9 “Goodness me!” 6 Treaties 13 Wake-up call 11 “What ___ I say?”in Italy 14 XX, 14 “Goodness “Whoa, easeme!” up!” 15 15 Stan’s co-star in 16 Coleridge’s over 100 early “The Rime of film comedies the Ancient 16 Mariner,” Made-up story for 17 one *Government’s credit limit 17 Modest article 19 of Hubbub swimwear 20 with Like many infield a grounders portmanteau 21 name Lester Holt and Anderson Cooper 18 Medical 23 breakthrough Issa ___ of HBO’s “Insecure” 19 Sorority letters 24 Smith or Scialfa of rock 20 Pianist’s 27 finger-sliding Vienna’s home: Abbr. 22 Clickers? 28 *Beanbag 25 Major exporter juggled with the of feetartichokes and gold 32 Massage 26 Hit lists? intensely
sample each entry and vote for their favorites. Admission is a $10 donation. The winner picks the charity that donations will be awarded. 704706-2978 5-8 p.m.; 151 S. Stewart St., Monroe
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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
molding 47 Bunches
57 State bird of 48 Waldorf Hawaii Astoria
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
LOUD&LIVE
Jan. 25
40
47
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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