South Charlotte Weekly Feb. 4, 2022

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PAGE 2A Friday, Feb. 4, 2022 • Vol. 15 • No. 5

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CMS acquires for AAA HQ

Cheslie Kryst rose to the national spotlight after the Charlotte attorney became Miss USA 2019. Photo courtesy of The LEPR Agency

A BRIGHT LIGHT

CHARLOTTE – MPV Properties and AAA Carolinas announceD the sale of the former AAA Carolina Headquarters to Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools.

The sale included three buildings located off Albemarle Road and AAA Drive in east Charlotte.

The sale includes: 6600 AAA Drive and its 71,676 square foot office on 7.232 acres, and 6623 & 6635 Executive Circle office buildings, that are 21,000 square feet and 24,780 square feet respectively, situated on 4.764 acres.

CMS plans to occupy the existing 117,456 square feet for their own office needs.

AAA Carolinas is relocating to Toringdon near Ballantyne.

The death of Cheslie Kryst caught many people off-guard. She was a successful young woman whose friends decribed her as strong Justin Vick Managing Editor

I was goofing off on Twitter when I saw the New York Post identified a woman that jumped from a mid-rise building in New York City as Miss USA 2019 Cheslie Kryst. Wait a minute … is that – dern!

I didn’t know Kryst, but I was aware of her Carolina roots. She was a track athlete at the University of South Carolina, worked as an attorney in Charlotte, won Miss USA 2019 and became a contributor for "EXTRA."

She was beautiful, confident and seemed to have an undeniable trajectory toward stardom.

“Her great light was one that inspired others around the world with her beauty and strength” read a statement from her family. “She cared, she loved, she laughed and she shined. Cheslie embodied love and served others, whether through her work as an attorney fighting for social justice, as Miss USA and as a host on 'EXTRA.' But most importantly, as a daughter, sister, friend, mentor and colleague – we know her impact will live on.”

Her death affected many people, including local and national media, politicians and celebrities, such as Academy-Award winner Viola Davis.

Mayor Vi Lyles tweeted that she had lunch with her in addition to engaging in charity events. Lyles described Kryst as proud “to be a

working attorney in Charlotte.”

Several organizations from the Charlotte area posted tributes of Kryst, including Atrium Health, Autism Charlotte, Dress for Success Charlotte and Sky Zone Pineville I wondered what would motivate her to jump from a building. I watched some videos on YouTube of some of her colleagues on “EXTRA” for clues. They seemed as shocked as I was.

Retired NFL star Nate Burleson, who worked with her on “EXTRA,” encouraged “CBS This Morning” viewers to “check on your strong friends.” This has become a major theme of the news coverage of Kryst’s passing.

Conventional wisdom is that suicide is something weak people do. I know from experience that is not the case. Even the strongest people, see VICK, Page 5A

Weight management clinic targets Ballantyne area Staff works with a patient's greater care team CHARLOTTE – CoreLife Novant Health has opened its first Charlotte-area location in Ballantyne. A second location will open in February in Pineville. These clinics are the first of seven planned for the Charlotte metro and are an extension of the CoreLife Novant

Health care model that launched in the Piedmont Triad in 2020.

CoreLife Novant Health is built for patients needing enhanced individualization, attention, care, education and accountability. Each clinic team includes a nurse practitioner, registered dietitian, exercise specialist and licensed clinical social worker who collaborate to deliver compassionate, comprehensive care plans for patients.

“CoreLife was founded because I witnessed my brother’s struggle with obesity throughout our adolescence,” said Sean Kostkowski, founder and president of CoreLife.

“There was not a comprehensive health care solution available to him, but CoreLife is now providing that care to thousands of patients every year. Our partnership with Novant Health allows us to reach even more individuals and families looking to achieve better health and more enjoyable lifestyles.”

Unlike standalone weight loss programs, CoreLife Novant Health works in coordination with the patient’s greater care team to reduce the impact of chronic conditions, to prepare for surgery or advanced medical treatment, or to simply achieve better health. In 2021, pa-

tients lost 13,053 pounds in total with an average patient weight loss of 12.2 pounds. Additionally, there was an overall reduction in body mass index points by 2,113.34 for an average of 2.33 points of BMI per patient.

“Through our integrated care model that coordinates medical care, nutritional counseling, behavioral health and exercise in one location, CoreLife Novant Health provides evidence-based, personalized care to patients looking for a better way to manage their weight and chronic diseases,” said Dr. Jacques Laugerre, senior physician

executive at Novant Health. “This comprehensive approach to the treatment of obesity as a disease is unique in the healthcare landscape, and we are thrilled to expand our services into Charlotte.”

Want to go?

CoreLife Novant Health’s Ballantyne clinic is located at 15015 Lancaster Highway, Suite 200, Charlotte. The Pineville clinic will be located at 9101 Pineville-Matthews Road, Suite C4.

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Page 2A • The Weekly • Feb. 4, 2022

Legislative evaluators say North Carolina lacking in addressing learning loss

Looking Back

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CMG file photos TOP: Matthews leaders break ground on the South Trade Street widening project on Jan. 16, 2015. ABOVE LEFT: The Jan. 29, 2016 edition of South Charlotte Weekly previewed the March opening of Sara's YMCA. ABOVE RIGHT: Former Tar Heel basketball player Brian Reese coaches the Porter Ridge JV basketball team in 2007. He now coaches in Turkey with his college teammate Henrik Rodl.

Boys & Girls Clubs has new leader CHARLOTTE – The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Charlotte has selected Amy Hudson to take over as executive director following the retirement of Marty Clary.

Hudson spent the past six years as the executive director of The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Club of High Point.

“Amy made a tremendous impact leading the Club in High Point, changing the lives of hundreds of kids through her work,” said Major Todd Mason, area commander for The Salvation Army of Greater Charlotte. “We couldn’t be more excited about the difference we know she will make

here in our community.”

Prior to her work at the Boys & Girls Club, Hudson served as program director for the Macedonia Family Resource Center in High Point and as an adjunct professor at Guilford Technical Community College.

Clary retired after leading or supporting the Boys & Girls Clubs in Mecklenburg and Union counties (and previously Gaston County) for nearly 40 years.

The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Charlotte runs seven clubs in Mecklenburg and Union counties.

On the web: BGCCharlotte. org.

(The Center Square) – The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction is not doing enough to address learning loss among children, even though the federal government gave the state billions of dollars to address the issue, state evaluators said Feb. 1.

Governmental operations evaluators said despite knowing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on instructional time and student performance, the NCDPI has made minimal efforts to address the issue.

A majority of the federal Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund issued to the state for schools has not been spent, they said.

Senate Governmental Operations Evaluator Alyssa Morrissey told a legislative panel Feb. 1 even though the state agency and its learning loss division “are meeting the fundamental legislative requirements, they need to be more actively and strategically addressing the issue of learning loss.”

The Joint Legislative Commission on Governmental Operations’ Subcommittee on Use and Distribution on Federal COVID Funding has been reviewing how the state has spent its federal relief funding to respond to the pandemic. Lawmakers asked the evaluators to look at how learning loss has impacted North Carolina.

Evaluators said student academic performance has dropped across all grade levels because of the pandemic.

“It’s widely accepted that the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic did and will continue to harm the students of North Carolina,” Sen. Chuck Edwards, R-Henderson, said.

The ESSER originated from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act. It was

not initially established for learning loss. Governmental Evaluator Morgan Dunn said North Carolina school districts used the $357 million they received from ESSER for personal protective equipment, technology advances, virtual equipment, salary and bonus pay.

The General Assembly provided schools with $70 million from the CARES Act to create a summer learning and remediation program. Morrissey said school districts did not use uniform metrics to measure student attendance or performance, so the program’s effectiveness was unclear.

The federal government provided North Carolina schools $1.4 billion from the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act in December 2020, which could be used for learning loss. Evaluators said about 70% of the ESSER II is still unspent. The funds expire in September 2023.

The federal government gave the state’s schools $3.2 billion last March specifically for learning loss, and as of Dec. 30, North Carolina still had 90% of the funding. The funds expire in September 2024.

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Catherine Truitt slammed the evaluators’ findings. She said there were many inaccuracies. Truitt, who was elected in November 2020, touted her efforts to reopen schools as soon as taking office.

Truitt pointed to her operational plan, Operation Polaris, which she said includes steps to address learning loss and other issues impacting North Carolina’s K-12 schools. She also created the Office of Learning Recovery and Acceleration (OLRA).

“The director of the Office of Learning Recovery and I share a vision that we can support districts who have wide discretion in how to spend this money and over whom we have no regulatory authority to ensure that they are good stewards of this federal money.”

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Dates to Remember National Freedom Day Tuesday, February 1, 2022

Four Chaplains Day Thursday, February 2, 2022

Iwo Jima Flag Raised February 23, 1945

Start of the Ground War of Operation Desert Strom February 24, 1991

National Freedom Day is an observance in the United States that honors the signing of a resolution that proposed the 13th amendment of the nation’s constitution on February 1, 1865.

Abraham Lincoln, who was the president at the time, signed the resolution to outlaw slavery. This anniversary is annually observed on February 1.

The Four Chaplains, also referred to as the “Immortal Chaplains” or the “Dorchester Chaplains,” were four World War II chaplains who gave their lives to save other civilian and military personnel as the troop ship SS Dorchester sank on February 3, 1943. The Dorchester was able to carry slightly more than 900 military passengers and crew. Only 203 survived.

Six United States Marines raising the second U.S. flag atop Mount Suribachi during the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II. Three of the six Marines in the photograph – Sergeant Michael Strank, Corporal Harlon Block, and Private First Class Franklin Sousley – were killed in action during the battle. The other three Marines in the photograph were Corporals Ira Hayes, Harold Schultz, and Harold Keller.

At 4:30 p.m. EST on January 16, 1991, Operation Desert Storm, a massive U.S.-led offensive against Iraq, began as the first fighter aircraft were launched from Saudi Arabia and off U.S. and British aircraft carriers in the Persian Gulf.

After six weeks of intensive bombing against Iraq and its armed forces, U.S.-led coalition forces launch a ground invasion of Kuwait and Iraq.

Matthews Veterans Matthews Veteran of the Year 2022

Matthews Military Hometown Heroes Banner Program

The Matthews Veterans Advisory Committee seeks nominations for the 2022 Veteran of the Year. This honor recognizes a veteran who has made significant contributions to the community in addition to their military service.

Do you have a special veteran or service member in your life who you want to honor? Submit an application for the Hometown Hero Banner Program! Banners honoring our hometown heroes will be displayed throughout downtown Matthews.

Visit www.matthewsnc.gov/mvac or scan the QR code to the left for more information.

Applications for both Matthews Veteran of the Year and Matthews Military Hometown Heroes Banner Program are due by April 4, 2022.

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Page 4A • The Weekly • Feb. 4, 2022

Atrium Health Union West to start operating soon

by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

STALLINGS – Atrium Health Union West is expected to welcome its first patients Feb. 23.

Seth Goldwire not only led the design of the hospital, but he will also serve as facility executive. He provided Indian Trail Town Council with an overview of the project Jan. 25.

Located at the intersection of Stallings Road and U.S. 74. Atrium Health considers the hospital’s service area to include not just Stallings and Indian Trail but also Matthews and Mint Hill as well as Waxhaw, Weddington and Wesley Chapel.

“We looked at some of the demographics from the community and honestly, this is one of the fastest-growing parts of the greater Charlotte region,” Goldwire said.

“So we felt like this is an area that really deserved care a lot more closer to home.”

Atrium Health designed Union West so that it didn’t look like a traditional hospital. Goldwire said Atrium Health wanted a more calm and inviting environment. Natural light is a key part of the interior.

“Studies show that the more natural light you bring into areas of care, it actually improves the healing factor for our patients and then also it improves the atmosphere for our teammates working on campus,” Goldwire said.

Initially, the campus will include a 50bed acute care facility with a medical office building, which has already opened. The campus has room to accommodate two additional medical office buildings. There are also out-parcels south of the campus.

Goldwire said the hospital will be providing surgery, delivering babies and taking

care of ill patients.

“We really do feel like it will take care of and fulfill the needs of this side of the greater Charlotte region on day one,” he said.

Inside, the hospital will have 40 licensed acute care beds, including 28 medical/surgical acute care beds; eight labor, delivery, recovery and postpartum rooms; and four ICU beds. It will also have 10 emergency department bays.

The hospital will have three operating rooms, one endoscopy suite, one C-section operating room; imaging, laboratory and pharmacy services; a garden lounge; a respite garden; and a cafeteria.

“Our art program will also play a heavy factor in the overall aesthetic of the campus,” he said. “It’s designed again to create a calming, healing feel and also still create reactions out of most everyone who actually sees them.”

Seth Goldwire, facility executive for Atrium Health Union West, described the hospital as a destination for health care, but the organization feels the majority of patients will come from within the red dotted line. This slide showing the hospital’s primary service area was taken from Atrium Health’s Jan. 25 presentation to the Indian Trail Town Council. Photo courtesy of Town of Indian Trail

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Rise 2 Thrive receives grant from insurance firm CHARLOTTE – Rise 2 Thrive Family Resource Center (Rise 2 Thrive) has received a $10,000 grant from the MassMutual Foundation and a $5,000 grant from MassMutual Carolinas for a combined grant totaling $15,000.

“Our firm is very pleased that our dedication to Rise 2 Thrive has been recognized by the MassMutual Foundation,” said Timothy Flanagan Jr., president of MassMutual Carolinas. “We are proud to support Rise 2 Thrive by providing additional grant funding and by helping bring stability to and enhance the quality of life for children and families in need.”

The MassMutual Foundation made the grant to Rise 2 Thrive in honor of the volunteer efforts of MassMutual Carolinas, a MassMutual Firm lead by Flanagan. The grant is part of the MassMutual Foundation’s national Firm Community Service Award program. The award program recognizes firms that have gone above and beyond the call of duty in service to their communities.

“This generous donation will allow us to further impact families in need here in Cabarrus County, as well as continue to develop our reading program and help our children SOAR,” said Ashley Fitch, founder of Rise 2 Thrive. “We can’t thank the MassMutual Team enough for their continued support.”

The nonprofit equips families with the knowledge, skills and resources to overcome life challenges and the barriers they experience to economic mobility.

“It’s been a pleasure to serve on the inaugural board of Rise 2 Thrive Family Resource Center and have the opportunity to impact

Hannah Butler provides a check for $10,000 to Ashley Fitch of Rise 2 Thrive. Photo courtesy of MassMutual Carolinas

my community in Cabarrus County,” said Hannah Butler, a financial advisor with MassMutual Carolinas. “I’m truly grateful to MassMutual Carolinas for their generosity which will allow us to continue to help parents rise so their children can thrive.”

Six grants totaling $45,000 – one $10,000 and one $5,000 for each of the three MassMutual regions – are being awarded to nonprofits on behalf of the selected firms. The grant determination is based upon an all-inclusive view of the firm’s community engagement strategy and volunteer participation, as well as nonprofit program and event support.

2021 marks the inaugural year for the Firm Community Service Award program, which is just one of a variety of philanthropic programs sponsored by the MassMutual Foundation in support of nonprofit organizations that operate where MassMutual’s financial professionals live and work. Last year, MassMutual and the MassMutual Foundation provided over $20 million in charitable contributions throughout the U.S.

Entertainment complex offers group outing giveaway CHARLOTTE – Piedmont Social House, a full-service restaurant and entertainment complex in southwest Charlotte, is celebrating its love for Groups by giving away a Group Outing for 12 people this February.

The full-service restaurant features Southern-inspired cuisine and a vast selection of craft beer and cocktails. The 23,000- square-foot, industrial-style social house and meeting space also has 12-bowling lanes, six party and meeting spaces, billiards tables, ping pong tables, darts, shuffleboard and games.

“We wanted to show the love this Valentine’s Day to our loyal customers at Piedmont Social House,” said John McGlone, director of food & beverage of New Forum who owns and operates the restaurant.

“The PSH Loves Groups promotion is our

way of thanking our guests for their support over the years and a fun way to celebrate the holiday.”

From Feb. 2 to 16, any group of 12 people are encouraged to tell Piedmont Social House why they love being part of their group, as well as what they love most about their group goals and achievements.

Participants can enter to win at www.piedmontsocial.com/win. Groups can include youth groups, scout troops, sports teams, fifth-grade class, Zumba class, Mom’s Club, Book Club, Work Team and Neighbors. Groups over 12 members are still encouraged to apply.

Judges will be looking for creativity, and enthusiasm about their group.

Those chosen will win a Piedmont Social House experience for their group of 12 people.

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North Carolina residents receive nearly $54M from feds for COVID funerals

by Nyamekye Daniel Contributor

(The Center Square) – The federal government has given tens of millions of dollars to North Carolinians to cover the cost of funerals for deaths linked to COVID-19.

Data released this month from the Federal Emergency Management Agency shows the agency provided $53.8 million to 8,190 North Carolina residents to cover funeral costs for deaths caused

by COVID-19 since Jan. 20, 2020.

The first COVID-19 case was reported in North Carolina on March 3, 2020, and the first death was reported March 25, 2020. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services reported Monday a total of 20,605 COVID-19-related deaths in the state during the pandemic.

FEMA’s funeral assistance program covers up to $9,000 per funeral, limited to $35,500 per application. FEMA has spent more than $1.6 billion in awards to 247,000 people for COVID-19-related funeral expenses in all U.S. states and territories as of Jan. 3.

“At FEMA, our mission is to help people before, during and after disasters,” acting FEMA Administrator Bob Fenton said in a statement.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has caused immense grief for so many people. Although we cannot change what has happened, we affirm our commitment to help with funeral and burial expenses that many families did not anticipate.”

About $2 billion was allocated to the program as part of the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021, signed by former President Donald Trump in December 2020. President Joe Biden approved an additional $50 billion in the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 in March for FEMA to use for COVID-19-related costs.

The $50 billion will be available until September 30, 2025. FEMA officials said they have not “identified a funding gap” so far.

Under the program, the federal government helps approved applicants with funeral services, transportation to identify their family members, caskets or urns, cremation, markers or headstones,

Suspect smashed glass snatch stuff MATTHEWS – The Matthews Police Department is looking for a suspect that used a hammer to smash the glass out of a counter to steal $51,000 worth of jewelry from Kohl’s.

The incident occurred at 8:30 p.m. Jan. 26 at the store at 9617 E. Independence Blvd.

He was last seen in a 2011 silver 4-door BMW with a registration plate number of LVG-9701 (PA) traveling on Sam Newell Road.

Call the Matthews Police Department at 704-847-5555 with any information about the case.

VICK (continued from page 1A)

including the superheroes in our lives, can have moments of vulnerability.

It’s easy to forget we’ve been waiting so long for this COVID-19 pandemic to be over. A lot of people are on edge from the uncertainty hovering over our health and wealth. That’s in addition to whatever challenges we’ve

endured.

I implore anyone with thoughts of suicide to think about your family, friends or loved ones. If you think you’re alone, you are not.

Someone cares about you.

For the rest of us, we have to treat each other better.

We have to admire people that go after their dreams or donate their time to serve others, not tear them down.

interment services, death certificates and transfer of remains, among other costs.

U.S. citizens, noncitizen nationals and qualified aliens are eligible for the program as long as the death occurs in the U.S. and its territories.

The program only awards the funding to people, not organizations, businesses or other entities.

Applicants must provide a death certificate that indicates the death was caused by, “may have been caused by” or “was likely a result of” COVID-19 or COVID-19-like symptoms.

Death certificates that do not reference COVID-19 would be accepted if accompanied by a signed statement from a certifying official that provides “an additional explanation, or causal pathway, linking the cause of death on the death certificate with COVID-19.”

The federal government has provided aid to pay for funeral costs for natural disasters in the past. The funeral assistance program faced scrutiny in 2018 after 3% of 2,431 requests for funeral assistance related to Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico was approved.

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Community The Weekly • Feb. 4, 2022 • Page 1B

Beer collaboration benefits ACEing Autism CHARLOTTE – Area breweries will release a new version of Court Shoes Only, a citywide collaborative beer benefiting ACEing Autism, on April 2. It is called Court Shoes Only Night Session.

Built from a collaboration between Ben Dolphens of Divine Barrel Brewing and TJ Creighton of High Branch Brewing, this year’s base recipe is an imperial stout – a style that provides freedom for breweries to express their creativity.

Like the first Court Shoes

Only beer recipe, brewers are free to deviate from the base recipe with adjuncts, additions and style variations.

The only ask of participating brewers is to make a beer that is dark in color to match the “night session” tennis theme.

“The Charlotte region’s brewers and beer fans aced last year’s Court Shoes Only and the results were incredible for ACEing Autism awareness, engagement and donation activity,” said Nils Weldy, regional program director for ACEing

Autism southeastern program locations. “To be asked by brewers about plans for the next Court Shoes Only is another example of how committed our local breweries are to programs and organizations that benefit the community, and the reason why this very special beer is returning this year.”

The Charlotte Independent Brewers Alliance returns as presenting sponsor of Court Shoes Only, providing the resources necessary to promote and support the campaign and its par-

ticipating breweries.

Brewery contributions from sales of Court Shoes Only, which totaled over $23,000 in 2021, will again benefit the ACEing Autism program locations in the Charlotte area serving south and metro Charlotte, university and Lake Norman.

This year’s Court Shoes Only beer release date is significant because April 2 is also recognized as World Autism Awareness Day.

Ben Dolphens (left) , co-owner of Divine Barrel Brewing, is a longtime homebrewer. TJ Creighton (right), co-owner of High Branch Brewing, is co-creator for the new Court Shoes Only beer recipe. Richard Groves/ACEing Autism

Alzheimer’s Association offers series for veterans

Some people have turned to faith to improve their mental health or lift their spirits. Photo courtesy of Jehovah’s Witnesses of America

Finding spiritual shelter Religious hope and support have helped many cope

Dale Clarke always considered himself a go-getter, eager to be active in his community. Now, he was unable to leave his bed, depressed and somber, sometimes for weeks at a time.

Such mental and emotional distress haunts millions. A recent government survey showed a doubling since 2019 in the proportion of Americans reporting anxiety or depressive disorder symptoms.

The pandemic brought about an entirely new set of struggles for everyone, adding even more stress and anxiety to everyday life. Clarke, a Charlotte resident, turned to what he has long done to cope - focusing on other people.

“Being able to help others has been a therapy throughout my whole life,” Clarke said. “When I feel tired and I think about stopping, I only realize that my joy would

be less, and all of my other problems would still be there.”

As a teenager with a difficult home life, Clarke was drawn to the effect he saw the Bible have on other’s lives. “I saw how they had a peace of mind, and a bright future.”

Now, as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Clarke is eager to share the Bible’s message of hope with others.

Clarke said that while he feels better than he ever has, he still struggles with anxiety and depression. Dwelling on one of his favorite scriptures helps to remind him that a positive outlook is an important factor of overcoming such feelings.

As he faces trials Clarke likes to remind himself of one very important thing: “I always remember that it’s not going to last forever. It’s just temporary. Then I am able to keep fighting, and to get my joy back.”

Clarke’s situation is not unique. Faith and a spiritual purpose have helped many to cope successfully with their mental health struggles.

“While the Bible does not indicate that

spirituality cures medical problems, many have derived comfort and strength from what the Bible teaches and the practical guidance it provides,” said Robert Hendriks, U.S. spokesman for Jehovah’s Witnesses.

Hope, support and positive coping skills aid mental health – whether these are built up by professional or faith-based sources, noted Lawrence Onoda, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist based in Mission Hills, California.

Those with serious mental health conditions may find some aspects of religious participation help them cope with their symptoms, he said.

More information on the activities of Jehovah’s Witnesses, including resources for coping with mental illness and emotional distress, can be found on their official website, www.jw.org.

This article was provided by the Jehovah’s Witnesses of America

CHARLOTTE – The Alzheimer’s Association, Western Carolina Chapter and the Alzheimer’s Association, Eastern North Carolina Chapter are hosting Into the Deep End: Dementia, Veterans and Caregiving Series, a four-part virtual webinar series taking place across North Carolina in February and March.

Taking care of a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia can be challenging for anyone, and caregivers often feel that they have been thrown into the deep end without a life jacket. For veterans, already dealing with unique issues related to their service, finding that life-line may feel even more difficult. This series focuses on challenges that caregivers may face every day, with a special emphasis on issues unique to veterans. It will include discussion on the latest research surrounding veterans and increased risk factors for developing dementia, and provide resources available to help veterans and their families.

“Those who have served our country deserve dignity throughout their lives,” said Katherine Lambert, CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association, Western Carolina Chapter.

“Equipping veterans, who are living with dementia and their caregivers, with the resources to preserve the respect they have earned is one of the most important roles we can play as an organization.”

The series will be presented by Rona Klein who is the Memory Care Manager at Salemtowne Retirement Community, as well as an Alzheimer’s Association community educator and support group facilitator. Each webinar will offer expert speakers, guest panelists, and time for discussion.

• Part 1 of the series — “Understanding Alzheimer’s & Dementia” — will take place Feb. 10 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal part of aging.

Learn about the impact of Alzheimer’s; the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia; stages and risk factors; current research and treatments available for some symptoms; and Alzheimer’s Association resources. Additional presenters for this program include Kimberly Cole, a licensed clinical social worker for Charles George Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, and a leader for the VA Dementia Caregiver program. see SERIES, Page 2A

AAA: Pump prices push higher as crude oil continues to surge CHARLOTTE – Gas prices in the Carolinas spiked last week, as both states experienced rising averages that topped the previous highs of 2022.

Motorists are now paying an average price of $3.15 per gallon in North Carolina and $3.09 per gallon in South Carolina. The previous 2022 high in

North Carolina was $3.10 and in South Carolina was $3.03.

“We’re starting to feel the effects that rising crude oil prices have at the pump,” said Tiffany Wright, spokesperson, AAA – The Auto Club Group in the Carolinas.

“The price of crude has already surpassed last year’s highs and unfortunately motorists won’t

see any significant relief anytime soon. Prices at the pump may only get more expensive as fuel demand increases because of spring break and summer road trips.”

The national average for a gallon of gas has risen to $3.36 – three cents more than a week ago, eight cents more than a month ago and 94 cents more than a year ago.

Coming women

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So far this year, the U.S. price for crude oil surged 15% and the recent daily settlement of $87.35 per barrel was a new 2022 high, nearly $3 more than the 2021 high. According to new data from the Energy Information Administration, total domestic crude stocks increased by 2.4 million bbl. The current crude stock level is approximately

13% lower than in mid-January 2021, contributing to the pressure on domestic crude prices. Continued growth in crude oil prices has helped maintain elevated pump prices, but if oil prices continue to climb toward $90 a barrel, pump prices will likely continue to follow suit.

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Page 2B • The Weekly • Feb. 4, 2022

DINING SCORES

RECIPE

Spaghetti Pie

Recipe & photo courtesy of YorkTest

An ideal way to use up leftover pasta, spaghetti pie is a family favorite, and perfect for a potluck kind of dinner, if you’re bored of spaghetti and meatballs. While it’s cold, there’s no better excuse to eat a spaghetti pie, which might bring back those carefree, laidback memories from your childhood. Instead of your standard pastry crust, this crust is actually made up of noodles mixed with eggs and cheese - what better combo?

Ingredients 6 oz of spaghetti 2 tbsp butter 2 eggs, beaten ½ cup parmesan cheese 2 garlic gloves, minced 16 oz ground beef 1 small onion, diced 1 cup ricotta cheese 15 oz diced tomatoes 3 tbsp tomato paste 1 tbsp dried oregano or basil 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

SERIES (continued from page 1B)

Part 2 — “Changes in Communication, Relationships & Personal Care” — will take place on Feb/ 17 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

In the middle stage of Alzheimer’s disease, those who were care partners now become hands-on caregivers.

Hear caregivers and professionals discuss helpful strategies to provide safe, effective and comfortable care throughout the stages of Alzheimer’s.

Serves 6 Prep time: 5 mins Cook Time: 50-55 mins Total Time: 55-60 mins

• Red Sake, 8410 Rea Road – 98.5 • Tony’s Pizza, 14027 Conlan Circle – 94

Lowest Scores • Fortune Cookie Vi, 8206 Providence Road, Charlotte – 86 Violations include: Employee put drink on food prep surface and didn’t wash hands before moving food; raw pork and raw chicken should have been separated; multiple cooked wing trays weren’t held cold enough; multiple containers of house-made spring and vegetable rolls didn’t have date marking; and spray bottle wasn’t labeled.

• Jack In The Box, 4505 Randolph Road, Charlotte – 87 Violations include: Certified person in charge wasn’t available; person in charge didn’t answer health questions correctly; meat patties and tenders were not covered while in storage; dishes with food debris and grease on them were stacked with clean dishes; and two traps near sink had multiple roaches.

• Q’doba Mexican Grill, 2233 Matthews Township Pkwy., Matthews – 90 Violations include: Certified person in charge wasn’t available; person in charge didn’t answer health questions correctly; food employee turned faucet off with bare hands after washing and handled clean single-service gloves; and scrub metal brushes were stored in sink.

Indian Trail • Bojangles, 6550 Old Monroe Road – 96 • Firehouse Subs, 14039 U.S. 74 – 96 • Great China, 610 S. Indian Trail Road – 96 • KFC, 13900 E. Independence Blvd. – 99 • Popeye’s, 13800 E. Independence Blvd. – 98 • Scooter’s Coffee, 5859 U.S. 74 – 98.5 • Taco Bell, 3021 Wesley Chapel-Stouts Road – 97 • Walmart Supercenter (deli), 2101 Younts Road – 91

Charlotte (28209) • 7-Eleven, 4401 Park Road – 97 • Angry Ales,1518 Montford Drive – 98 • Harris Teeter (produce), 2717 South Blvd. – 100 • Harris Teeter (Starbucks), 2717 South Blvd. – 100 • Jamba, 5110 Park Road – 98.5 • McDonald’s, 2625 South Blvd. – 99.5 • Pizza Hut, 3909 South Blvd. – 96.5 • Smoothie King, 1600 E Woodlawn Road – 96.5 • Yame Asian Noodles, 4435 Park Road – 97.5 Charlotte (28210) • JC Tacos, 1343 Sharon Road W. – 94

Method 1. Preheat oven to 350F. 2. Cook spaghetti until al dente and drain well.

3. Combine pasta with the garlic, parmesan, eggs and butter. Stir until the butter and cheese melt.

4. Place spaghetti into a deep casserole dish and form into a pie crust.

5. In a skillet, heat some oil. Add onion and beef and cook until the beef is completely brown. Add your canned tomatoes, tomato pace and oregano and stir. Simmer until the sauce thickens.

6. Spread ricotta cheese over spaghetti crust. Pour pasta sauce over it.

7. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove from the oven and sprinkle mozzarella cheese until it blankets the entire pie. Bake until the cheese is completely melted. About 5 minutes will do.

- Part 3 — “Addressing Challenging Behaviors & Home Safety” — will take place on Feb. 24 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, changes in behavior can leave a caregiver feeling unprepared. This program will talk about managing behavioral symptoms, wandering, and keeping the person with dementia safe, if and when these behaviors emerge. The presentation will review ways to manage medication, address driving issues and what steps may be necessary if your loved

Health departments in Mecklenburg and Union counties inspected these restaurants from Jan. 21 to 27:

one is living alone.

This series is being hosted in partnership with VA Caregiver Support. Webinars are open to the general public and veterans and families affected by dementia. There is no charge to participate, but registration is required and a recording of each program will be made available to all registrants. Attendees can attend via video/webinar or through a toll-free number.

Visit tinyurl.com/ ALZDeepEndSeries or call 1-800-272-3900 to sign up.

Charlotte (28211) • 131 Main, 5970 Fairview Road – 99 • Harris Teeter (deli), 112 S Sharon Amity Road – 98 • Harris Teeter (meat/seafood), 112 S Sharon Amity Road – 99 • Harris Teeter (produce), 112 S Sharon Amity Road – 96.5 • Harris Teeter (wine bar), 112 S Sharon Amity Road – 98.5 • Jack In The Box, 4505 Randolph Road – 87 • Kool Runninz, 3500 Latrobe Drive – 97 • Momo Station, 3500 Latrobe Drive – 98 • Rollicious Ribs & More, 3500 Latrobe Drive – 96.5 • Smashburger, 4400 Randolph Road – 95.5 Charlotte (28226) • Bojangles, 8720 Pineville-Matthews Road – 98.5 • Circle K, 9716 South Blvd. – 98 • Dunkin Donuts, 8334 Pineville Matthews Road – 97 • Harris Teeter (seafood/meat), 7823 Colony Road – 99 • Rice & Spice Thai Street Food, 8314 Pineville-Matthews Road – 94 Charlotte (28227) • Circle K, 8910 Albemarle Road – 95.5 • Olde Sycamore Grill, 7500 Olde Sycamore Drive – 97 Charlotte (28270) • Fortune Cookie Vi, 8206 Providence Road – 86 Charlotte (28277) • Asian 1, 16646 Hawfield Way Drive – 97 • Courtyard, 6319 Providence Farm Lane – 95 • Duckworth’s Grill & Taphouse, 14015 Conlan Circle – 99.5 • The Fresh Market (produce), 10828 Providence Road – 98.5 • Genghis Grill/Stir Fry Chef, 11324 N Community House Road – 98.5 • Harris Teeter (deli), 15007 John J Delaney Drive – 98.5 • Hickory Tavern Raw Bar & Grill, 11504 Providence Road – 96 • Margaritas Mexican Restaurant, 9805 Sandy Rock Place – 90 • No Joke Pizza, 8133 Ardrey Kell Road – 98.5 • Open Rice, 9882 Rea Road – 94.5

Marvin • Publix (deli), 1615 Providence Road S. – 100 • Publix (produce), 1615 Providence Road S. – 100 Matthews • Americana Restaurant, 1628 Matthews-Mint Hill Road – 98.5 • Azteca Restaurant, 9709 E. Independence Blvd. – 93 • Chick-Fil-A, 9905 Matthews Park Drive – 96 • China Express II, 3607 Matthews-Mint Hill Road – 95 • Harris Teeter (deli), 3100 Weddington Road – 98.5 • Hibachi Buffet Sushi & Grill, 9925 E. Independence Blvd. – 93.5 • Ihop, 9253 E. Independence Blvd. – 91 • Jonathan’s, 10630 Independence Pointe Pkwy. – 93.5 • Kabob-Je Rotisserie & Grille, 2233 Matthews Township Pkwy. – 96.5 • Li’s Noodles Asian Kitchen, 10915 Monroe Road – 99.5 • Mr Tokyo, 10412 E. Independence Blvd. – 95 • Panera Bread, 1904 Matthews Township Pkwy. – 99 • Picadelis Deli, 1600 Matthews-Mint Hill Road – 97 • Poke Honolulu, 10416 E. Independence Blvd. – 93 • Primavera Pizza, 1319 Matthews-Mint Hill Road – 96.5 • Qdoba Mexican Grill, 2233 Matthews Township Pkwy.

– 90 • Steady Eddys Pumphouse, 2216 E. John St. – 93.5 • Tasty Crab House Matthews, 1826 Windsor Square Drive – 95 • Texas Roadhouse Matthews, 10400 E. Independence Blvd. – 94.5 • The Portrait Gallery Restaurant, 118 East Charles St. – 98 • Tree Top Catering & Cafe, 1031 Matthews-Mint Hill Road – 96.5 • White Duck Taco Shop Matthews, 131 E. John St. – 96.5 Mint Hill • Zaxbys, 6911 Brighton Park Drive – 98 Monroe • Compare Foods (deli), 1600 Skyway Drive – 98.5 • Compare Foods (meat market), 1600 Skyway Drive – 99.5 • Compare Foods (produce), 1600 Skyway Drive – 98.5 • Food Lion, 801 E. Roosevelt Blvd. – 98.5 • Jade Kitchen 2, 1849 Dickerson Blvd. – 96 • Johnny Tomatoes, 5250 Old Charlotte Hwy. – 99 • Moe’s Southwest Grill, 2925 Monroe Way – 98 Pineville • Burger King, 10000 Lee St. – 95 • Chex Grill & Wings, 10860 Park Road – 96 • McAlisters Deli, 11025 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 96 • Sam`s Club Cafe, 11425 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 98 • Shake Shake Seafood King Crab, 9925 Leitner Drive – 98 • Wasabi Sushi, 11025 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 98 Stallings • Domino’s Pizza, 7900 Stevens Mill Road – 98.5 • Gate Store, 14622 Lawyers Road – 97 • Subway, 7900 Stevens Mill Road – 94.5 Waxhaw • Greco Fresh Grille, 201 W. South Main St. – 94.5 Wesley Chapel • Kami Chinese Thai and Sushi, 5922 Weddington-Monroe Road – 93

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GoKinetic.com Visit the retail store located at 68 Cabarrus Ave East in Concord 1As of April 2021 Kinetic by Windstream: Limited-time, non-transferable offer for residential customers that may not be combined with other promotions. Credit restrictions may apply. Subject to availability, Windstream Terms and Conditions (windstream.com/terms), and Windstream Acceptable Use Policy (www2.windstream.net/customersupport/usersguide/accept/accept.html). Details: Must be a new Internet customer who has not received Kinetic Internet service within the past 30 days. Must subscribe to select plans to qualify. After the 3 months free promotion, the promotional Kinetic Internet, standard speed upgrade, and modem rates apply. After the initial 12 months, the standard Kinetic Internet rate applies. Taxes, fees and surcharges are extra and not included in introductory or standard rate. If service(s) are cancelled within the first six (6) months after installation, your bill credits will be reversed, and you will be charged for the services. Additional restrictions may apply. Kinetic Internet: Kinetic cannot guarantee speeds or uninterrupted, error-free service. Speed availability, capabilities and provisioning vary depending on network and terrain conditions, Internet, website, or network congestion, and customer geographical location. Kinetic makes no representations related to download or upload speeds. Kinetic assumes no responsibility or liability for interruption of services or service performance differences actual and advertised performance. In select areas, includes Internet transport, Internet access, and unlimited incoming calls. Outbound calls, except for toll free and 911, will be charged at 10 cents/minute. Operator Service and 411 will be charged at tariffed rates. No features or long-distance carrier rates allowed. Internet Speed: Monthly fees may apply. Speeds 25 Mbps and above may be provisioned in a range including a minimum and maximum speed. Kinetic will provision customer’s location for the fastest speed available within the available range, at the time of order but cannot guarantee speed or uninterrupted, error-free service. Equipment: Monthly equipment fees may apply. Kinetic-provided modems will be capable of in-home wireless networking, but devices supported by in-home wireless networking connections may experience speeds not equal to advertised speeds or the speed referenced in your Internet plan. With wireless networking, actual throughput speed may be impacted by several factors including interference from other equipment or devices at the location, distance from the modem, modem location, types of devices connected, physical obstructions, and time of day. Modem equipment must be returned upon termination, and if not, Windstream reserves the right to charge for the modem or a $100 fee. Installation/Activation: Activation charge may apply. Plans with speeds 25 Mbps and higher may qualify for free professional installation. Plans with speeds less than 25 Mbps may incur a fee for professional installation. Money-Back Guarantee: If customer cancels new Internet service within 30 days after start of service, all service charges and any modem equipment and install charges, if applicable, related to Internet services only, will be refunded. Modem equipment must be returned upon termination and if not, Kinetic reserves the right to charge for the modem or a $100 fee. © 2022 Windstream Intellectual Property Services, LLC. All rights reserved. Kinetic and Windstream are registered service marks or trademarks of Windstream Intellectual Property Services, LLC. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.

033340Matthews3999ad492x105.indd 1

12/27/2021 4:13:53 PM

Racial Bridge-Building Community Forums are held in partnership with Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist, First Baptist Matthews, Matthews Presbyterian Church, Cross & Crown Lutheran Church and Matthews United Methodist.

ADVERTISE IN OUR SPECIAL PULLOUT SECTION

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STEPHEN DERBY ALEXANDER

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Stephen Derby Alexander, 73, died near his home in Matthews, NC on Thursday January 13, 2022. Formerly of the Washington, DC area, Steve was born and raised in Arlington, VA. He was the oldest son of Hugh Alexander and Marjorie Maize. Entering the United States Navy through the NESEP Program, he served in an engineering capacity onboard several nuclear submarines including the USS SILVERSIDES (SSN-679). Leaving the Navy with the rank of Lieutenant, Steve continued as a Nuclear Engineer for the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission and then Information Systems Laboratories. In all, Steve gave over 35 years of federal service. He was passionate about engineering and science and traveled often to speak and teach as one of the world’s leading authorities on nuclear energy environmental qualification and safety. Steve spoke multiple languages fluently and enjoyed traveling.

He was of Scottish ancestral heritage and loved bagpipe music. Steve’s first love was the sea. More than just an avid sailor, he dedicated much of his life to sailing, beginning as a young child. He shared his expertise and love of sailing with others by mentoring youth in the Sea Scouts. He was a Sea Scout himself since age 11, learning to sail under Skipper Fred Tilp of the Corinthian Yacht Club of Washington, D.C., author of the book “This Was Potomac River”. Steve was a great friend and colleague to many, through thick and thin, and also loved his family dearly and will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his brother Christopher, wife Stephanie, step-daughters Colleen and Ashley, step-sons-in-law Donald and David, former spouse Silvia, son Matthew, and daughter-in-law Morgan, and 11 grandchildren. In lieu of flowers or other forms of sympathy, the family asks that contributions be made to Friends Of Sea Scouts Of Maryland, 13760 Cabells Mill Drive. Centreville, VA 20120. For memorial service info and online condolences visit http://www.captsteve.net

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 5TH FROM 11:00 - 1:00

Come out and see some of their feathered friends and learn more about the rescue efforts of local non-profit.

TEN PERCENT OF ALL SALES DURING THE EVENT WILL BE DONATED TO SUPPORT CWR.

1819 Matthews Township Parkway Suite 800, Matthews, NC 28105 Phone: (704) 841-9453 thebirdfoodstore@gmail.com www.TheBirdFoodStore.com

BACKYARD BIRDS PROUDLY PRESENTS

THE BACKYARD NATURALISTS PODCAST

Page 4B • The Weekly • Feb. 4, 2022

CALENDAR

Chili Cook-Off Queen City Sellers holds its annual chili cookoff at Carolina Beer Temple. The cook-off is designed for 10 cooks to square off. www.carolinabeertemple.com Noon-3 p.m.; 195 N. Trade St., Matthews

Feb. 4 Ribbon Cutting The Matthews Chamber of Commerce helps Kinetic by Windstream celebrate a ribbon cutting and grand opening at the company’s new retail location.

10 a.m.-5 p.m.; 1720 Galleria Blvd., Charlotte

Feb. 11 Senior Entertainment Steve Brogan is the entertainer for the 45th annual Senior Citizens Valentine’s Banquet at the Belle Johnston Community Center. The free event is open to Pineville residents 60 and older.

Must register by 5 p.m. Jan. 28 by calling 704889-2400.

6-8 p.m.; 1000 Johnston Drive, Pineville

Family Fun Magic Barry performs magic and twists balloons during Family Fun Night at the Crews Recreation Center. Register in advance. www. matthewsfun.com 6-9 p.m.; 1201 Crews Road, Matthews

LOUD&LIVE

Community Theater The Union County Playmakers presents “The Wild Women of Winedale” from Feb. 11 to 20 at Union County Playmakers Theatre. Tickets cost $15 for adults, $12 for students and older adults.

Other performances will be held at 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 12, 18, 19 as well as 2:30 p.m. Feb. 12 and 20. https://unioncountyplaymakers.org/ 7:30 p.m.; 2115 W. Roosevelt Blvd., Monroe

Feb. 4 Amos’ Southend: Dave Koons and the Koyotes Bradshaw Social House: Falconheart Hickory Tavern (Copper): The Parks Brothers Moochies Tavern: Bootleg Aces Neighborhood Theatre: Lost Dog Street Band Southern Range: Neal Carter Stooges Pub: Unknown Artist Stumptown Station: Todd Johnson Unarmed Tap and Vine: Scoot Pittman Trail House: Evenflow Visulite: Pluto Gang

Feb. 25 Musical Theater Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts presents “The Rainbow Fish Musical” from Feb. 25 to March 6 at Matthews Community Center.

Feb. 5 Tickets cost $14 for adults and $12 for children, Grand Opening students and older adults. Other performancPainted Tree Boutiques holds a grand openBug Dance Syndication Sales Corporation es will be held at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Feb. 26, The New Love York Times ing event at its new Matthews location. http:// 620 Eighth Indian Trail Parks and Recreation hosts a Love 2 and 4:30 p.m. Feb. 27, 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10018 paintedtree.com/ Bug Dance at Carolina Courts. Register in adMarch 5 and 2 and 4:30 p.m. March 6. www.matFor Information Call: 1-800-972-3550 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; 1813 Matthews Township vance for an evening of crafts, games and music. thewsplayhouse.com For Release Saturday, August 24, 2019 Pkwy., Matthews 5:30-8:30 p.m. 240 Chestnut Pkwy., Indian Trail 7 p.m.; 100 E. McDowell St., Matthews

Crossword ACROSS

30 Man’s name 45 Blues group?: that’s an alphabet Abbr. run 46 It’s truly inspired 9 Ghost buster, of a 31 The Panthers of 47 Offerings from sort the A.C.C. Friskies 15 Fix without 32 Commonplace 50 Gradually cut off doctoring (from) 33 Passes, slangily 16 Many a magnet 54 1962 John has one 34 Comment Wayne film of complete 17 Thought 55 Hit list contentment accompanying a light bulb 57 Handle, of a sort 37 ___ A. Bank 1 Junk dealers?

(men’s clothier since 1905)

18 Like speakeasies and fridges, at times

38 Man’s name that means “the king”

19 One may be copped

39 Last word in many company names

20 “Bandleader” with a 1967 #1 album

41 Tone-___

24 On the ___

42 Of very poor quality, in modern slang

25 Go with the wind?

27 ‘

ANSWER TO PREVIOUS PUZZLE D J E D M E N A C E

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O R K I N B L U S H P I N K

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Feb. 6 Bojangles Coliseum: Winter Jam Home Brew: Steve Brown Spectrum Center: Billie Eilish

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1 Prime directive?

57

58

2 Nebula Award winner Frederik

59

60

3 Guy’s gal

43 Old Model M’s and Model T-6s

28 Big times

59 “Another Bud, bud!”

1

60 Comic con, e.g.

40 Tidbit for an echidna

22 Dr. ___

58 Descended upon, as mosquitoes might

Edited by Will Shortz

Feb. 5

Feb. 5 Amos’ Southend: Departure Bradshaw Social House: DJ Rob Evening Muse: Mykal Kilgore; A.J. Smith Fillmore: Subtronics Hickory Tavern (Providence): The Parks Brothers Home Brew: MaryAnn (ukulele) Matthews Wine Cellar: Caution!

Blind Driver; Local Honey Band Moochies Tavern: Flashback Band Neighborhood Theatre: Night in Rio Pineville Tavern: BAD Generation Pour 64: Kris Anderson Southern Range: Even the Losers Stooges Pub: Mother Trucker Stumptown Station: Nate Randall Tap and Vine: Eddie Bush Trail House: Travis Grubb and the Stoned Rangers Treehouse Vineyards: Karaoke Vintner’s Hill: Rodney Caillouet Visulite: Mans Jam Waxhaw Taphouse: 485

50

51

52

Feb. 7 Feb. 7 Evening Muse: Open mic

53

56

Feb. 8

Feb. 8 Neighborhood Theatre: Joe Purdy Visulite: G. Love & The Juice

Feb. 9

PUZZLE BY SAM TRABUCCO

Feb. 9 Stooges Pub: Music Bingo Trail House: Pluto for Planet Duo

4 Pioneering 12 Complained 44 1990s’ ___ 26 Opulence thrash metal Report loudly and band with its own 27 Is perfect, publicly music festival, 48 Crop clothing-wise Gigantour 13 Kir and Campari, 49 Something 29 It’s got its ups brought to a for two 5 Dating letters and downs supermarket 14 Stark family 6 Commencement 31 Mobile home? member on 51 City on a lake of 7 Class in which “Game of the same name 32 Capital on the kids may learn Thrones” Balkan Peninsula 52 Off-road rides, about sin?

21 What the U.S. for short 34 Barely open and Canadian 8 Best-selling 53 Vote in the dollars had, 35 It’s going downhill game with a Security Council roughly, in the hexagonal board 36 Not a team player 54 Nucleus early 2010s 9 College area 23 Made looser or 42 Often-reddish 56 Something of study with tighter, in a way quartz everyone’s doing no application required?

Online subscriptions: Today’s puzzle and more than 7,000 past 10 On the double puzzles, nytimes.com/crosswords ($39.95 a year).

Read about and comment on each puzzle: nytimes.com/wordplay.

11 Contents of a bowl or a pot

Feb. 10

Feb. 10 Evening Muse: The Quasi Kings Neighborhood Theatre: Amanda Anne Pineville Tavern: Music Bingo Trail House: Music Bingo Visulite: The Other Favorites

Feb. 11

Feb. 11 Amos’ Southend: Rev On Bradshaw Social House: Sweetleaf CharBar No. 7: Rusty Pilot Acoustic Evening Muse: Jim Avett Moochies Tavern: Kindred Cult

Neighborhood Theatre: Scowl Brow Pineville Tavern: Dusk Till Dawn Southern Range: Bradley Wik Steady Eddy’s: Birds of a Feather Stooges Pub: Action Jaxxon Tap and Vine: Sticks & Stones Trail House: Exit 85 Visulite: Harvest Moon

Feb. 12

Feb. 12 Amos’ Southend: Big Empty Evening Muse: Matt Walden Fillmore: Circa Survive Hickory Tavern (Sun Valley): CZNS Home Brew: Southern Songwriters Showcase Moochies Tavern: Living Temtation Neighborhood Theatre: The Hamiltones Pineville Tavern: Back in Action Southern Range: Anne Haden Stooges Pub: Dangerous Ways Trail House: Next-O-Kin Waxhaw Taphouse: Smokin’ Gunn

Feb. 13

Feb. 13 Home Brew: Danielle Hewitt

Venues Charlotte Amos’ Southend: Bradshaw Social House: Evening Muse: 3227 N. Davidson St. Fillmore: 820 Hamilton St. Hickory Tavern (Copper): 12210 Copper Way Hickory Tavern (Providnece): 11504 Providence Road Neighborhood Theatre: 511 E 36th St. Ovens Auditorium: 2700 E. Independence Blvd.

Spectrum Center: Visulite: 1615 Elizabeth Ave. Indian Trail Hickory Tavern (Sun Valley): Tap and Vine: Trail House: 6751 Old Monroe Road Matthews Matthews Wine Cellar: Steady Eddy’s: Stumptown Station: Mint Hill CharBar No. 7: 7312 Town View Drive Pour 64: 4410 Mint Hill Village Stooges Pub: 13230 Albemarle Road Vintner’s Hill: 7427 Matthews-Mint Hill road Monroe Home Brew: 215 S. Main St. Southern Range: 151 S. Stewart St. Treehouse Vineyards: 301 Bay St. Pineville Middle James: 400 N. Polk St. Pineville Tavern: 314 N. Polk St. Stallings Moochies Tavern: 15060 Idlewild Road Waxhaw DreamChaser’s: 115 E. North Main St. Waxhaw Taphouse: 110 McDonald St.

ARE YOU MISSING TEETH? STRUGGLING TO PAY FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS? The Phelps Institute is a teaching institute for Dentists from across the U.S. and is holding a

Free Screening for Free Dental Implants Saturday, Feb 12th and Sunday, Feb 13th from 8am to 5pm at the *Promenade Center for Dentistry 10844 PROVIDENCE ROAD | SUITE 270 | CHARLOTTE, NC 28277

TO REGISTER, email:

phelpsinstitute@gmail.com

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➤ Missing one or a few teeth that you are looking to replace with Dental Implants

FREE 3D SCAN to see if you are a good candidate for Dental Implants

➤ Dental Implant cost would be a financial burden too great for you to bear

MEN and WOMEN (Adults 18+)

➤ Have possibly been told by a dentist you could be a good candidate for Dental Implants

SPACE IS LIMITED and available on a first come, first serve basis *Promenade Center for Dentistry is located on the second floor of the building, just above the Golf Galaxy store. Parking is on the left side of the building next to the Tuesday Morning store.

If you have lost all of your teeth or have full dentures or been told by a dentist that all of your teeth need to be extracted, you will not qualify for this clinic.

The Weekly • Feb. 4, 2022 • Page 5B

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

HELP WANTED AKOUSTIS, INC. IN HUNTERSVILLE, NC SEEKS SR DESIGN ENGINEERS to perform acoustic, thermal & electromagnetic simulations using adv model’g techniques.

No trvl; no telcomm.

Email cv w/ job code SDE to: hr@akoustis.com LEAD IT APPLICATIONS ANALYST Duke Energy Business Services, LLC. Charlotte, NC. Monitor production ops & maintain availability of assigned apps. Give 24/7 on-call support on 7 day on-call monthly rotation.

Reqs Bach in Comp Sci/ Comp Engg/rel/equiv & 7 yrs IT app anlys exp incl 7yrs: trbleshoot; prblm solve; logical design; SQL code; Busi Reqs anlys; root cause anlys; FileNet P8 tech; 4yrs: vendor mgmt; 3yrs: code & prgrm. Hires must submit to drug screen & BG check. Send resume to: Duke Energy, Attn: Sylvia Mozee, 400 S. Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC 28202 & ref job #105124

ALLY BANK SEEKS A PRINCIPAL TECH SUPPORT IN CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA Design and develop high-volume, low-latency applications for missioncritical systems and deliver high availability and performance. Requires: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Information Technology, or related field and five years of experience in the role or a similar role.

Must have experience in Java, J2EE, JavaScript, Spring Framework, Web Services, Oracle, and HTML. Foreign equivalent accepted. May telecommute. Email resume with reference number J-L511950 to Marlyn D. Mangual at recruitment@ally.com.

Equal Opportunity Employer.

PRODUCT OWNER - AGILE (Charlotte, NC) - Lead delivery teams priorities in PI planning, sprint planning, & all agile ceremonies in SAFe frmwk. Reqs.: Bachelor’s + 4

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THE HOLY PAINTER Interior, exterior, residential only.

Wall paper removal, popcorn painted fixed or removed, dry wall and kitchen cabinets.

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Piano Instruction

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Pat Moehring 704-564-4275

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MISCELLANEOUS BURIAL PLOTS AT SHARON MEMORIAL Section 11D, Last Supper, Lot 211 Space 1 Only Section 11D, Last Supper, Lot 212 Spaces 1 & 2 Current rate at cemetery is $4,595 per space, Willing to sell for $2,000

South Charlotte

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Union County

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Nursing Foot Care

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Trimming toenails Reducing thick toenails Reducing corns and calluses

$10 OFF FOR NEW CLIENTS Cell/text: (704) 957-5458 Web: www.TheraTouchFootCare.com

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

WHAT'S INSIDE:

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Organizing & Delivery Local & Long-Distance Moves Packing & Unpacking Junk Removal Veteran Owned & Operated We will do the packing and cleaning for you!

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SOFTWARE ENGINEER III, F/T, AT TRUIST (Multiple Openings) (Charlotte, NC) Deliver highly complex solutions & significant system linkages, dependencies, associated risk. Lead & perform dvlpmt efforts such as analysis, dsgn, coding/ creating, & testing. Oversee & participate in testing, implmtn, maintenance, & escalated support of Truist’s most complex solutions.

Must have Bach’s deg in Comp Sci, Comp Engg, or related tech’l field. Must have 6 yrs of progressive exp in s/ ware engg or IT consulting positions performing the following: applying in-depth knowl in info systems & understanding of key business processes & competitive strategies related to the IT function to identify, apply, & implmt IT best practices; applying broad functional knowl in reqmt gathering, analysis, dsgn, dvlpmt, testing, implmtn, & deployment of applications; planning & managing projects & solving complex problems by applying best practice; providing direction & mentoring less exp’d teammates; & utilizing exp &: SOAP UI, GIT, Maven, JavaScript, Angular, HTML, & Java. Position may work remotely but is based out of & reports to Truist offices in Charlotte, NC. Must be available to travel to Charlotte, NC regularly for meetings & reviews & manager & project teams &in 48-hrs’ notice.

Send resume & cvr ltr to

SENIOR MOVE MANAGEMENT

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Professional Interior Painting and Handyman Service

thecharlotteweekly.com/ucweekly

Buddy-Ball is about the experience

by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

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

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

“I realized the pressure was

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

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

Johnston said it’s important

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

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

MARA works to remove as

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

see MARA, Page 5A

Some notes heading into a new semester

ENDING HUNGER See page 1B

NOW HIRING

Living a legacy Wingate awards MLK honors, 5A

by Andrew Houlihan Contributor

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

Lending ideas

Heritage Festival looks for volunteers, 1B

Contact Gary at 704-847-4832

Tune in

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

Inspiration

Get home & garden ideas from show, 2B

Girl Scouts are taking orders, 2B

Forest lawn east cemetery Lot #77 Grave 1&2, includes one vault Contact: Herman Sease (704) 365-1858

Beechwood bringing in luxury homes

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

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

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

by Broadmoor with 62 custom homes in Marvin.

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

FOR OUR UNION COUNTY ROUTES Weekly Routes Available Cookie craving?

Firm price of $4,000

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

As we reflect on the first semester.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

DELIVERY DRIVERS!

Radio station expands its frequency, 3B

CEMETERY PLOT FOR SALE

@ucweekly

MOST

women DYNAMIC

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

Photo courtesy of The Beechwood Organization

homes and a community marina.

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

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

see SCHOOL, Page 5A

nominate A WOMAN TODAY

TO: Marwa N. Salih Take notice that a pleading seeking relief against you has been filed in the above-entitled action on January 25, 2022. The nature of the relief being sought is as follows: Absolute Divorce.

You are required to make defense to such pleading not later than March 21st, 2022, and upon your failure to do so the party seeking service against you will apply to the court for the relief sought.

This, the 4th day of February, 2022.

BY VISITING

CONTACT US AT adsales@cmgweekly.com 2021

In the matter of: QUSAY F. ALTAWEEL v.

MARWA N. SALIH, 22-CVD-1407

www.thecharlotteweekly.com

FOR DETAILS

Elizabeth C. Dantism, Attorney 1018 East Blvd., Suite #1, Charlotte, NC 28203

Anniversary Clearance Sale 4 Days Of Additional Discounts February 18-21

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Additional Furniture Arriving Weekly From Local Factories And Immediately Available To Take Home FROM CHARLOTTE: I-77 North to I-40 West to Hickory, Exit 126.

Left off ramp, then right onto Hwy. 70. Mart is on the left.

800-462-MART (6278) • www.hickoryfurniture.com I-40 West, Exit 126 • 2220 Highway 70 SE; Hickory, NC