The 09-19-2025 Edition of The Charlotte Weekly Union County
4B
September 19, 2025 • Vol. 25 • No. 38
MONROE – South Piedmont Community College’s adult education program is growing, with more than 2,100 learners served during 2024-25.
e college said this represents a 17% increase over the previous year and 53% growth since 2022–23.
Adult learners are turning to South Piedmont to earn a high school diploma or equivalency, learn English, strengthen literacy skills or gain digital pro ciency.
“ e numbers are impressive, no doubt,
but what matters most are the stories behind them,” said Kelly Stegall, associate vice president. “Every student who completes an adult education program is better prepared to provide for their family, achieve success and reach goals they once thought out of reach.”
South Piedmont o ers some core programs to meet community needs:
• High School Equivalency and Adult High School: preparing adults to earn a diploma or equivalency credential.
• English for Speakers of Other Languages:
WINGATE – Wingate University students passing by the statue of Charles A. Cannon on the way to a music class or to one of the dozens of other events slated this semester at the George A. Batte, Jr. Fine Arts Center may not have a clue about the working relationship the two men shared at Cannon Mills. They will nonetheless benefit from the philanthropy that continues as part of their legacies.
e Charles A. Cannon Charitable Trust No. One recently gave the university a $290,428 grant to replace Batte’s HVAC chiller. e funding comes on the heels of a separate $750,000 Cannon Charitable Interests grant for state-of-the-art audio and video equipment being installed in the 46,000-square-foot ne arts center.
Donations from the Cannon Charitable Interests over the past 50 years total nearly $39 million.
“As I re ect on Mr. Batte’s longtime partnership with Mr. Cannon, I am grateful for e Cannon Foundation’s deep-rooted relationship with Wingate University,” wrote President Rhett Brown in a recent letter thanking the trustees of the Charles A. Cannon Charitable Trust No. One.
Opened in 1999 and named for Batte, a longtime Cannon Mills executive and former vice president of e Cannon Foundation, the ne arts center includes the 550-seat McGee eatre, the 174-seat Plyler-Gri n Recital Hall, dressing rooms, multiple classrooms, a choral hall, student lounges and other facilities. In addition to serving as the home of the university’s music department, it is where students and community members attend Lyceum lectures, concerts, ceremonies and more.
Although the 26-year-old structure still looks great, thanks in part to a $42,500 roof project funded by the Cannon Charitable Interests last year, its systems for sound, video and production
CHARLOTTE – Grab your gown,
fluff your veil and get ready to catch the bouquet at My Breast Friend’s Wedding on Oct. 23.
“Slip into your best wedding attire and join us for a ladies-only celebration like no other as we celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness Month,” said Shawna Dye Culik, event chair of My Breast Friend’s Wedding and board vice chair for e Go Jen Go Foundation. “It is the perfect night for women to connect, make memories, and support an incredible cause.” e event takes place from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Hyatt Centric, 3100 Apex Drive, Charlotte.
Attendees will be treated to wedding cake, hors d’oeuvres, champagne, wedding punch, a DJ, prizes, and wedding favors. Molly Grantham will emcee the festivities.
“Whether you are rocking your original wedding dress, a bridesmaid gown that has been hiding in your closet, or any fabulous wedding-inspired look, this is your chance to walk down the ‘friendship aisle’ and raise a glass to good times, connection and making a di erence,” Dye Culik said.
Tickets cost $50 and include admission to the event and a ra e ticket.
South Piedmont sees more demand in adult education
improving English skills and providing pathways to further education and careers.
• Compass Education: supporting adults with disabilities as they transition into employment or post-secondary education.
• Digital Literacy: teaching computer skills for employment, education and personal growth.
e program’s success is fueled by community demand, partnerships and practical skills training.
More than half of participants were
Nonprofit donates $1M+ to upgrade Wingate fine arts center
support were outdated, prompting the university to apply for the grant to replace all the equipment to meet modern performance standards. Impact Technology of Concord was awarded the contract. e project is underway and expected to be completed by the end of the month.
Jesse Wright Martin, music department chair, couldn’t be more thrilled about the upgrades. e new sound, video and production equipment is not only enhancing longtime music programs, but it has also enabled the university to o er a new music industry concentration. Work-study students in the music industry track will learn live streaming and recording-studio operations, among other skills.
“We’ve had potential students audition who were not classically trained musicians, and we haven’t always had a place for them,” Martin said. “Now we’re in a better position to be able to serve a wider range of students.”
Suzanne Philemon, e Cannon Foundation’s executive director, said the Cannon Charitable Interests look to support projects that will directly enhance the student experience.
“ e Batte Center is integral to the experience of many students on Wingate’s campus,” Philemon said. “ is space is also heavily used by the community. Ensuring the best systems are in place makes the space better for everyone.”
Making the space better also means keeping its air conditioner working and ensuring that instruments are in a climate-controlled environment, an unexpected challenge when a thermostat in the HVAC system malfunctioned and had to be replaced during commencement week in May. To extend the life of the HVAC system, the Charles A. Cannon Charitable Trust No. One provided funding for a new chiller tower. Ho man Mechanical is slated to install the chiller during fall break, when the work won’t disrupt classes and when the weather is cooler.
My Breast Friend’s Wedding returns Oct. 23
Women can get a little more mileage out of their wedding dresses with a wedding-inspired fundraiser. Photos courtesy of My Breast Friend’s Wedding
Proceeds bene t e Go Jen Go Foundation, a nonpro t that provides nancial assistance to more than 105 families per month in the Greater Charlotte area who are facing the nancial burden of a breast cancer diagnosis. “We look forward to this event every year and are incredibly grateful to be its bene ciary,” said Susan Evren, executive director of Go Jen Go. “Everyone’s support helps us make a direct impact on our local breast cancer community.” RSVP at mybreastfriendswedding.com.
employed while enrolled, balancing education with work and family. Fifty-two percent were between the ages of 25 and 44, and nearly half entered without a high school credential.
“As adult education continues to grow, we remain focused on creating accessible pathways that help students become more employable and increase their economic mobility,” Stegall said.
On the web: spcc.edu/adult-education
UCPS board member speaks out about public school funding
MONROE – The Rev. John Kirkpatrick IV read a resolution Sept. 4 during the Union County Board of Education meeting that was critical of state funding for public education, particularly for employee wages.
e resolution also called out the state for how it funds charter and private schools.
Kirkpatrick, who represents District 1 in Union County Public Schools, said his resolution does not speak for the board but includes sentiments from his heart.
Below is the resolution as read into the record:
Whereas, public education is the foundation of a strong, equitable and thriving society, it is the constitutional duty of the State of North Carolina to provide every child with access to a sound basic education; and
Whereas, recent budgetary decisions have signicantly reduced funding for public schools, resulting in widespread cuts to teachers salaries, classroom resources, student services and vital school support sta ; and
Whereas, underfunding public education undermines the ability of faculty, sta , and administration to perform at their full potential, directly impacting the quality of education that our children receive; and
Whereas, the diversion of public funds to private and charter institutions, many of which are not held to the same standards of transparency, accountability or inclusivity, threatens the very existence and stability of public schools that serve the majority of North Carolina children; and
Whereas, while we acknowledge that some funds will inevitably be directed toward private and charter institutions, it is imperative that public schools receive equal and su cient support as they remain the primary and most inclusive vehicle for preparing standards to succeed in a diverse and democratic society; and
Whereas, public schools uniquely expose children to people of all backgrounds, cultures and perspectives, equipping them to think critically, to embrace diversity and to reject narrow or close-minded ideologies; and
Whereas, teachers are entrusted with the critical responsibility of preparing students for future success and meaningful careers. And it is unjust that many educators struggle nancially while carrying out this calling; and
Whereas, educators deserve a salary that allows them to live with dignity, stability and security, free from nancial hardship, as they dedicate their lives to ensuring that students are equipped to thrive academically, socially and economically; and
Whereas, educators across our state are underpaid, overburdened and increasingly unsupported, leading to alarming rates of teacher burnout, turnover and shortages, especially in rural and underserved communities.
Now therefore, be it resolved that I, John Jamal Kirkpatrick IV, unequivocally exposes all e orts to defund or diminish public education in the State of North Carolina.
Be it further resolved that I a rm the necessity of public schools as the backbone of equitable education and demand that even the misfunding allocations to private and charter schools, public schools must be supported fairly, fully and without compromise.
Be it further resolved that I stand in full support of our educators, faculty and sta , and demand fair, equitable and adequate funding to ensure that they have the resources, salaries and compensation needed to meet the growing academic, social and emotional needs of our students. Educators are pouring, building and equipping our present and future.
Be it nally resolved that I call upon state legislators, community leaders and citizens to prioritize investment in public schools, restore funding to appropriate levels and protect the future of public education from any attempt to shift resources toward private and charter schools at the expense of the public good.
Upgrades at the George A. Batte, Jr. Fine Arts Center allow students to gain exposure to live streaming and recording studio operations.
Photo courtesy of Wingate University
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Auditor weighs in on council, chief argument
By Alan Wooten Contributor
(The Center Square) – Disclosure of how it used one-quarter of a million dollars in taxpayer money to prevent a police chief from ling a lawsuit against the nation’s 14th largest city because of a councilman’s comments on bulletproof vests was not transparent and has been eshed out by the state auditor.
“ is is the people’s money, and it shouldn’t be kept behind closed doors,” said rst-term Republican Auditor Dave Boliek. “Our report
Reactivating
By Alan Wooten Contributor
( e Center Square) – Finding a route to reactivating the death penalty and tighter oversight of magistrates is expected in legislative proposals when the North Carolina General Assembly returns the week of Sept. 22.
Leaders of the chambers spoke on Sept. 11 about their plans, o ering no speci cs other than a commitment to dive into and nd solutions in judicial processes related to the stabbing death on a Charlotte light rail train on Aug. 22. e case in which the accused had 15 years of criminal history and diagnosed mental health issues has been gripping the nation’s attention after police released video of the incident.
“We need leaders at every level to acknowledge there is a crime crisis here in North Carolina and across the nation brought on by soft on crime policies,” said Michael Whatley, the Republican candidate for U.S. Senate in 2026. He joined Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Berger, R-Rockingham, and House Speaker Destin Hall, R-Caldwell, in sharing information.
BUSINESS BRIEFS
Spectrum awards $2,500 to Stolen Lunches
CHARLOTTE – Spectrum has awarded a $2,500 Employee Community Grant to Charlotte nonpro t Stolen Lunches.
Funding will provide necessities such as clothing and hygiene items for the housing insecure.
“Spectrum Employee Community Grants support local nonpro ts that hold a meaningful connection to the Spectrum employees who nominate them, and to the communities they serve,” said Rahman Khan, Spectrum community impact group vice president.
Charter Communications, which operates the Spectrum brand, has committed to awarding $2.5 million over the next ve years to nonpro ts through Spectrum Employee Community Grants.
CAMS manager earns credential
CHARLOTTE
– Community Association Management Services announced that Community Manager Pamela Sages has earned her Association Management Specialist designation.
Sages has seven years of experience in community management, three with CAMS, and previously worked a decade as a paralegal for an HOA attorney.
She has managed a diverse portfolio including high-rises, single-family communities and condos.
Adam Soccorsi, regional vice president, praised her dedication.
“She has been a valued professional in our industry for many years,” Soccorsi said. “It’s been a privilege to see her continued commitment to growth and excellence.”
brought transparency to the City of Charlotte. However, as shown in the mayor’s response, City leadership doesn’t share our interest in being open and transparent about spending the people’s money.”
Democratic fourth-term Mayor Vi Lyles’ response to the auditor’s report and recommendations said the settlement was considered personnel information, and thus not for public consumption. She said the release of closed session minutes quarterly will continue and be added to agendas “for public inspection.” She also said the city would revisit
Berger and Hall said they had met with first-term Democratic Gov. Josh Stein in the last 24 hours, a time that included the assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk. Respectful references to his death in Utah were sprinkled from the start and throughout.
We need leaders at every level to acknowledge there is a crime crisis here in North Carolina and across the nation brought on by soft on crime policies,”
– Michael Whatley, the Republican candidate for U.S. Senate
e leaders of the Legislature said they would put together a bill package ending cashless bail; increase oversight and training for magistrates; and consider changes to how crimes tied to people with mental illness are handled. On the latter, a reference was made to how domestic violence
Warby Parker opening fourth store
CHARLOTTE – Warby Parker will open its fourth Charlotte store Sept. 20 at Commonwealth Plaza Midwood.
The location will carry the brand’s full optical and sunglass assortment, including the Fall 2025 and Strato Series collections; kids’ frames for ages 4-8, contact lenses, accessories; and in-store eye exams.
Customers can receive 15% o two or more pairs of prescription glasses or sunglasses with the Add a Pair and Save promotion. Opening day shoppers will get a complimentary tote bag with purchase while supplies last.
Muralist Emmy Star Brown will have art at the store, 1710 Commonwealth Ave., Suite 126.
On the web: stores.warbyparker. com/us/nc/charlotte
Foundry to guide expansion of pizza brand
CHARLOTTE – Foundry Commercial will guide the national expansion of Brixx Wood Fired Pizza + Craft Bar.
Founded in Charlotte in 1998, Brixx operates more than 20 restaurants in the Carolinas, Tennessee and Virginia.
Foundry’s Charlotte retail brokerage group will identify sites that meet Brixx’s criteria, focusing on the Southeast with selective growth in other markets. ey seek high-visibility end caps or free-standing locations with ample parking and patio space.
“With its unique mix of scratchmade recipes, neighborhood-focused hospitality and proven franchise infrastructure, Brixx is well-positioned for thoughtful, sustained growth,” said Rhett Batanides, Foundry senior vice president.
CMS appoints new police chief CHARLOTTE – Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools has appointed Jonathan D. omas as the new chief of police.
Thomas launched his law enforcement career with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department in 1998. He has held leadership roles in special operations and emergency management.
settlement-related costs and funds from which they are to be paid. When former Police Chief Johnny Jennings said his o cers looked too much like the military if wearing outer carrier vests, Councilman Tariq Bokhari told him in summer of 2024 via text messages he had made a mistake and promised to “cripple his legacy.” In May, in closed session that was not unsealed upon nal execution, the City Council forked over $305,000 so Jennings would not sue. Bokhari was con rmed as deputy administrator of the Federal Transit Administration in March. Five days
decisions are by a District Court judge rather than a magistrate. e death penalty is not prohibited in North Carolina, though the last was Aug. 18, 2006. Samuel Flippen was executed by legal injection following his conviction for murder of his stepdaughter. e unwritten moratorium has existed because of litigation on fairness and methods.
Iryna Zarutska, 23, was killed while aboard the Lynx Blue Line light rail train about 10 p.m. Aug. 22 alongside Camden Road near the East/West station, according to the Charlotte Area Transit System video. Decarlos Brown Jr., arrested a 15th time in as many years, is charged with rst-degree murder on the state level and charged on the federal level with committing an act causing death on a mass transportation system.
While in the local news immediately, the story went viral recently when video was released by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police from cameras aboard the train.
Congressional proposals are in the works; state Republicans in the U.S. House have requested the chief judge in the district remove the magistrate signing o on cashless bail for
He played a key role in planning national events and led CMPD teams in Western North Carolina during Hurricane Helene relief e orts.
Queen City Robotics Alliance has new leader
CHARLOTTE – Robert Hillman, founder and managing partner of RLH Consulting, is the new CEO of Queen City Robotics Alliance and will focus on securing resources, expanding outreach and overseeing operations.
Kaiwen Cheng, who began serving QCRA in 2018, is now chief financial and marketing officer. Cheng will also lead QCRA’s role as Charlotte host of the NASA International Space Apps Challenge on Oct. 4 and 5 at Sullenberger Aviation Museum.
“ is timely transition is a vital step in improving the long-term sustainability of QCRA, ensuring that we can continue providing transformative opportunities for students, families and the community for years to come,” Cheng said.
Twin Peaks donating money to veterans group
CHARLOTTE – Twin Peaks Restaurant has donated more than $530,000 to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation since 2022 and will continue its support by donating a portion of weekday lunch sales from Sept. 11 to Nov. 11.
e foundation, created in honor of FDNY re ghter Stephen Siller, provides mortgage-free homes for Gold Star families and smart homes for injured veterans and rst responders.
\On Veterans Day, Nov. 11, veterans and active-duty service members can enjoy a free lunch with valid ID from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Things are brewing in Fort Mill
FORT MILL – Beignets & Brew will open at South Mill at Elizabeth early next year, according to MPV Properties.
e café, o ering made-to-order beignets with locally roasted co ee and espresso, will occupy 2,058 square feet at the front of the new mixed-use development along Fort Mill Parkway.
“We are beyond excited to bring
after rst-term Republican Auditor Dave Boliek announced a probe into the settlement, Jennings resigned. Bokhari resigned the week after Labor Day, returning to focus on family and business. In the settlement, Jennings got $175,000 from the general fund in severance pay; $45,699 from the general fund in retention bonus; $45,284 from the general fund as the value of vacation days; $25,000 from the Risk Management Fund in legal fees; and $14,017 from the general fund in retroactive pay increase.
Brown in January; and a probe of safety and budget for the transit system is underway by the state auditor. Berger said lawmakers want to stop task forces like the 2020 creation requested by then-Gov. Roy Cooper. He acknowledged the North Carolina Task Force for Racial Equity in Criminal Justice did not lead to laws, but it has served to shape decisions in the judicial process.
“Policing doesn’t need to be reimagined,” Berger said. “It needs to be respected; it needs to be funded.” Berger and Hall took questions, respectively, on whether the federal grant cuts by second-term Republican President Donald Trump were in play on violent crime and if di erent gun policy could help. Each referred to what happened in Charlotte, Berger saying the problem wasn’t having police to arrest because he was more than a dozen times and the judicial process kept letting him back out; and Hall saying the killing was by knife, not gun.
“Everyone must take crime and violence seriously,” Berger said. “Our law and crime processes must re ect that.”
the Beignets & Brew sweetness to the town of Fort Mill and share an amazingly unique, inviting and delicious experience,” franchise owner Kristo er Patrick said. Beignets & Brew joins Riccobene Family Dentistry, Caresway Pharmacy, Town Square Adult Day Center and Reynold’s Orthodontics at the center.
Charlotte Area Chamber events
CHARLOTTE – e Charlotte
Area Chamber of Commerce hosts a members-only co ee event and women’s empowerment conference.
• Members network during Coffee with the Chamber from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Sept. 23 at Alchemy Co-Working, 2459 Wilkinson Blvd., Charlotte. e event is for members only. Register in advance.
• The chamber presents its 2025 Empowering Women in Business Conference from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 25 at The Union at Station West, 919 Berryhill Road, Charlotte. TV personality Molly Grantham serves as keynote speaker. Members pay $199. Others pay $249. Register in advance. Visit charlotteareachamber.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Matthews Area Chamber events
MATTHEWS – e Matthews
Area Chamber of Commerce hosts a Business After Hours.
• Members network during Business After Hours from 5 to 7 p.m. Sept. 25 at Back Corner Bar at Ames Street Marketplace, 215 N. Ames St., Matthews. A silent auction bene ts the Home Again Foundation. Register in advance. Visit matthewschamber.org to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Mint Hill Chamber events
MINT HILL – e Mint Hill Chamber of Commerce hosts a Business After Hours and ambassadors meeting.
• Chamber ambassadors hold their monthly meeting from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Sept. 23 at Empire Pizza, 7024 Brighton Park Drive, Mint Hill. Register in advance.
• Members network during a Business After Hours from 5 to
6:30 p.m. Sept. 24 at McLawland Farms, 8632 Reedy Creek Road, Charlotte. Register in advance. Visit minthillchamberofcommerce.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Pineville NC Chamber events PINEVILLE – e Pineville NC Chamber of Commerce hosts a social gathering.
• The chamber holds its monthly social gathering from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Sept. 25 at Flame Bistro and Bar, 10223 McIntyre Ridge Road, Pineville. Register in advance. Visit pinevillencchamber.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Union County Chamber events MONROE – e Union County Chamber of Commerce hosts a workshop.
• Zenitra Perry, of Hundredfold Consulting LLC, leads a workshop, “Leadership Unlearned: Authentically Rewriting the Rules,” from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 24 at the Union County Chamber, 903 Skyway Drive, Monroe. Members pay $20. Others pay $30. Register in advance.
Visit unioncountycoc.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Quick Hits
• Waffle House is partnering with DoorDash on delivery nationwide from 9 p.m. to 8 a.m.
• The Bowlero in south Charlotte (1700 Montford Drive) transitioned to Lucky Strike last month.
• Walmart offered free health screenings, affordable immunizations and other health-focused activities at nearly 4,600 Walmart Pharmacies across the country on Sept. 13.
• Shake Shack has rolled out a French Onion Soup Burger to its menu. e restaurant also offers Onion Rings, French Onion ‘Shroom Burger and French Onion Shack Stack.
• Gov. Josh Stein appointed Deronda Metz, executive director of Friendship Community Development Corporation in Charlotte, to the relaunched Interagency Council for Coordinating Homelessness Programs.
Spectrum delivered a check to Stolen Lunches on Sept. 6 during the group’s Give Blessing Bags event at McCrorey YMCA. Photo courtesy of Spectrum
Pamela Sages
South Piedmont rises to third in NC for customized training
MONROE – South Piedmont Community College now ranks third in the state for customized training.
South Piedmont trained 1,277 employees across Anson and Union counties in fiscal year 2025. The cost of that trainings was $743,000, fully covered by NCEdge, and the value to employers is at least triple that, over $2 million in workforce impact, according to the college.
“While rankings aren’t our focus, it is gratifying to be part of the tremendous growth in customized training at South Piedmont,” said Latoya Billings, corporate education and training director. “It’s a testament to the trust that is being placed in South Piedmont by both our state and industry partners.”
South Piedmont’s Corporate Education & Training department is managing more than
$2.5 million in active projects.
Two years ago, South Piedmont ranked in the lower quartile of the state’s 58 community colleges for customized training. In fiscal year 2025, only Wake Tech and Gaston College outpaced South Piedmont.
“Latoya and her team have set a new benchmark for what’s possible,” President Stacy Waters-Bailey said.
Sept. 19
Read to Your Plushie Party
Union West Regional Library invites children to bring a favorite stuffed animal for stories and crafts. uclnc.org
10-11 a.m.; 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail
Disney Skate
Kate’s Skating Rinks plays Disney music as patrons skate. Admission costs $5. 10 a.m.-noon; 14500 E. Independence Blvd., Indian Trail
Babies & Books
Southwest Regional Library hosts babies and caregivers for rhymes, rhythm and reading. uclnc.org
10:30-11 a.m.; 1515 Cuthbertson Road, Waxhaw
Blue Heeler Bash
Edwards Memorial Library leads playful games, pretend fun, a craft and a scavenger hunt inspired by a favorite blue pup. uclnc.org
1-3 p.m.; 414 N. Main St., Marshville
Real Amazing Men
The J. Ray Shute Community Center hosts Real Amazing Men. Call 704-282-4655 or email gmassey@monroenc.org for details. monroenc.org
4-5 p.m.; 506 E. Green St., Monroe
Food Truck Friday
Sunny Day Markets hosts Food Truck Friday at Crossing Paths Park. https://sunnydaymarkets.com/
5-8 p.m.; 120 Blythe Drive, Indian Trail
Parents’ Night Out
Dickerson Community Center hosts Parents’ Night Out for children ages 5-12. Call 704-282-4649 or email kscott@monroenc. org for details. monroenc.org
6-10 p.m.; 899 N. Johnson St., Monroe
Music Bingo
MOR Events & Entertainment presents a 1990s grunge-themed edition of Music Bingo at Middle James Brewing Company. The event includes a best-dressed contest. middlejamesbrewing.com
7-9 p.m.; 115 E. North Main St., Waxhaw
Community Theater
Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts and BNS Productions present “A Raisin in the Sun” at Matthews Community Center. Tickets start at $23. Discounts are available for seniors, military, students and children. The show is recommended for ages 13 and older. matthewsplayhouse.com
7:30 p.m.; 100 E. McDowell St., Matthews
Sept. 20
The AI Apps You Didn’t Know You Needed
Southwest Regional Library’s Training & Technology team explores practical AI apps for everyday use. uclnc.org
10-11 a.m.; 1515 Cuthbertson Road, Waxhaw
Crochet Class
Union West Regional Library offers a dropin crochet session for all skill levels—bring a project or yarn and a hook. uclnc.org
10 a.m.-12 p.m.; 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail
Babies & Books
Southwest Regional Library hosts babies and caregivers for rhymes, rhythm and reading. uclnc.org
10:30-11 a.m.; 1515 Cuthbertson Road, Waxhaw
Sewing Club
Edwards Memorial Library welcomes adults to sew together and share tips. uclnc.org
11 a.m.-12 p.m.; 414 N. Main St., Marshville
Italian Festival
Ciao Italia Matthews celebrates Italian culture with food and entertainment at Stumptown Park. The festival continues Sept. 21. ciaoitaliamatthews.com
Noon-8:30 p.m.; 120 South Trade St., Matthews
D&D Club
Southwest Regional Library invites teens to join an afternoon of tabletop role-playing. uclnc.org
1-4 p.m.; 1515 Cuthbertson Road, Waxhaw
Puzzle War!
Main Library challenges teams to race and finish a 500-piece puzzle first. uclnc.org
2-3 p.m.; 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe
Community Theater
Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts and BNS Productions present “A Raisin in the Sun” at Matthews Community Center. Tickets start at $23. Discounts are available for seniors, military, students and children. The show is recommended for ages 13 and older. matthewsplayhouse.com
2 or 7:30 p.m.; 100 E. McDowell St., Matthews
Oktoberfest Celebration
Middle James Brewing Company celebrates Oktoberfest with live music, food trucks, children’s activities, a vendor market and a beer release. https://middlejamesbrewing.com/ 2-8 p.m.; 115 E. North Main St., Waxhaw
Music and Brews Night
Groove Machine plays favorites from the 1970s during the Town of Mint Hill's Music and Brews Night at Mint Hill Veterans Memorial Park. Food trucks and an alcohol tent will be available. The event is free and open to the public. No outside alcohol allowed.
minthillevents.org
6:30-9 p.m.; 8850 Fairview Road, Mint Hill
Sept. 21
Italian Festival
Ciao Italia Matthews celebrates Italian culture with food and entertainment at Stumptown Park. There will be an Italian car show (noon-5 p.m.). ciaoitaliamatthews.com
Noon-8:30 p.m.; 120 South Trade St., Matthews
Classic Cruisers
Classic Cruisers of Monroe holds its monthly cruise-in at Poplin Place.
ClassicCruisersofMonroe@hotmail.com
1-4 p.m.; 3001 W. Roosevelt Blvd., Monroe
Community Theater
Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts and BNS Productions present “A Raisin in the Sun” at Matthews Community Center. Tickets start at $23. Discounts are available for seniors, military, students and children. The show is recommended for ages 13 and older. matthewsplayhouse.com
2 p.m.; 100 E. McDowell St., Matthews
Corn Hole
The Trail House hosts a corn hole tournament on Sundays. Play for gift cards. https://thetrailhouse.com/
5:30-8:30 p.m.; 6751 Old Monroe Road, Indian Trail
Trivia Night
Sweet Union Brewing hosts a Trivia Night on the theme of K-Pop Demon Hunters. Play for gift cards. https://sweetunionbrewing.com/ 6 p.m.; 13717 E. Independence Blvd., Indian Trail
Sept. 22
Storytime
Edwards Memorial Library engages children with early literacy fun—reading, talking, singing and playing. uclnc.org
9:30-10 a.m.; 414 N. Main St., Marshville
Storytime
Edwards Memorial Library engages children with early literacy fun—reading, talking, singing and playing. uclnc.org
10:30-11 a.m.; 414 N. Main St., Marshville
Passport to the Beat: A Música en Español
Voyage
Southwest Regional Library surveys Latin music from “La Bamba” to today in this listening-and-learning program. uclnc.org
5:30-6:30 p.m.; 1515 Cuthbertson Road, Waxhaw
Sept. 22
One Pot Meals
Dickerson Community Center hosts One Pot Meals. Call 704-282-4649 or email kscott@ monroenc.org for details. monroenc.org
6-7 p.m.; 899 N. Johnson St., Monroe
Sept. 23
Storytime
Main Library welcomes children for stories and songs rooted in early literacy skills.
NCEdge is an initiative by the North Carolina Community College System to provide customized training and workforce development for qualifying businesses.
On the web: spcc.edu/business-workforce-solutions/ corporate-education-training/
South Piedmont’s programs range from leadership and communication to safety and technical training.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
uclnc.org
9:30-10 a.m.; 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe
Storytime
Union West Regional Library welcomes children for stories and songs rooted in early literacy skills. uclnc.org
9:30-10 a.m.; 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail
Storytime
Main Library welcomes children for stories and songs rooted in early literacy skills. uclnc.org
10:30-11 a.m.; 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe
Storytime
Union West Regional Library welcomes children for stories and songs rooted in early literacy skills. uclnc.org
10:30-11 a.m.; 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail
Making Cents of Home Buying
Union West Regional Library helps adults navigate budgeting, credit and the home-buying process. uclnc.org
5:30-6:30 p.m.; 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail
Bike Night
Peddlers Paradise Bartique hosts a Bike Night on Tuesdays that includes Music Bingo (7 p.m.). instagram.com/peddlersparadisebartique
6-10 p.m.; 105 W. Franklin St., Monroe
Trivia Night
The Courthouse Self-Pour Beer & Wine hosts a Trivia Night on Tuesdays. courthouseselfpour.com
7:30-9:30 p.m.; 101 W. Franklin St., Monroe
Sept. 24
Storytime
Main Library welcomes children for stories and songs rooted in early literacy skills. uclnc.org
9:30-10 a.m.; 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe
Storytime
Union West Regional Library welcomes children for stories and songs rooted in early literacy skills. uclnc.org
9:30-10 a.m.; 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail
Storytime
Southwest Regional Library welcomes children for stories and songs rooted in early literacy skills. uclnc.org
9:30-10 a.m.; 1515 Cuthbertson Road, Waxhaw
Storytime
Main Library welcomes children for stories and songs rooted in early literacy skills. uclnc.org
10:30-11 a.m.; 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe
Storytime
Union West Regional Library welcomes children for stories and songs rooted in early literacy skills. uclnc.org
10:30-11 a.m.; 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail
Storytime
Southwest Regional Library welcomes children for stories and songs rooted in early literacy skills. uclnc.org
10:30-11 a.m.; 1515 Cuthbertson Road, Waxhaw
Spades Group
Older adults play spades on Wednesdays at Winchester Community Center. Call 704-282-4654 or email sbrown@monroenc. org for details. monroenc.org
11 a.m.-1 p.m.; 1001 Winchester Ave., Monroe
Table Tennis
Dickerson Community Center hosts table tennis on Mondays and Wednesdays. Call 704-282-4649 or email kscott@monroenc. org for details. monroenc.org
11 a.m.-2 p.m.; 899 N. Johnson St., Monroe
Robot Adventures: Mega Maze Challenge Southwest Regional Library guides kids to code tiny robots through colorful maze challenges (registration opens 8 a.m. Monday, Sept. 15). uclnc.org
5:30-6:30 p.m.; 1515 Cuthbertson Road, Waxhaw
Trivia Night MOR Events & Entertainment presents a Trivia Night at Middle James Brewing Company. Play for prizes. middlejamesbrewing.com
7-9 p.m.; 115 E. North Main St., Waxhaw Music Bingo The Courthouse Self-Pour Beer & Wine hosts Music Bingo on Wednesdays. Play for prizes. courthouseselfpour.com
7:30-9:30 p.m.; 101 W. Franklin St., Monroe
Sept. 25
Storytime Southwest Regional Library welcomes children for stories and songs rooted in early literacy skills. uclnc.org
9:30-10 a.m.; 1515 Cuthbertson Road, Waxhaw
How Hearing Affects Your Overall Well-being Southwest Regional Library hosts Charlotte Speech & Hearing Center for a talk on hearing health and wellness. uclnc.org
10-11 a.m.; 1515 Cuthbertson Road, Waxhaw
Library Card Sign-Up Month
Union West Regional Library showcases books, Kanopy, Hoopla and more—learn what your card can do. uclnc.org
10 a.m.-12 p.m.; 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail
Storytime Southwest Regional Library welcomes children for stories and songs rooted in early literacy skills. uclnc.org
10:30-11 a.m.; 1515 Cuthbertson Road, Waxhaw
Penning Panels
Main Library helps kids create and illustrate original comics using classic strips as inspiration. uclnc.org
3:30-4:30 p.m.; 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe
National Quesadilla Day
The Old Armory Community Center observes National Quesadilla Day. Call 704-282-4669 or email htanner@monroenc.org for details. monroenc.org
4:30-6 p.m.; 500 S. Johnson St., Monroe
Birthday Club
The J. Ray Shute Community Center hosts Birthday Club. Call 704-282-4655 or email gmassey@monroenc.org for details. monroenc.org
5-6 p.m.; 506 E. Green St., Monroe
Neighborhood Gardener: Plant This, Not That Southwest Regional Library hosts a Master Gardener with fall planting tips and rightplant/right-place guidance. uclnc.org
5:30-6:30 p.m.; 1515 Cuthbertson Road, Waxhaw
Final Draft Book Club
Southern Range Brewery and Union County Library discuss “Ink Blood Sister Scribe” by Emma Torzs; pick up a copy or download via Libby. uclnc.org
6-7 p.m.; Southern Range Brewery
Film Screening
Dowd Center Theatre presents the sing-along edition of “Pitch Perfect.” Admission costs $2 at the door. Concessions will be available. dowdcentertheatre.com
7-9 p.m.; 120 S. Main St., Monroe
Sept. 26
Community Celebration
Sutton Park Community Center holds its Monthly Community Celebration. Call 704-282-4656 or email cbarbour@monroenc. org for details. monroenc.org
3:30-5:30 p.m.; 2303 Brooks St., Monroe
Ninja Warrior
Indian Trail Parks & Recreation offers a Ninja Warrior course, laser tag and other activities during Battle IT Out at Chestnut Square Park. indiantrail.org
6-9 p.m.; 320 Chestnut Pkwy., Indian Trail Music on Main
The Swingin’ Medallions perform a concert during the Music on Main series. Bring a chair or blanket to sit on. monroenc.org
6:30-9:30 p.m.; Main Street in Monroe
Produced By Mark Tofano
Immerse yourself
in Italian culture - its food, art and music. Learn about the history of Italy, the uniqueness of its regions and the impact Italy has had on the world.
Grab your “passaporto” when you enter Ciao Italia Matthews and experience Italy brought to Matthews.
Saturday, September 20, 2025 | 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Sunday, September 21, 2025 | 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM Stumptown Park | 120 S. Trade Street | Matthews, NC
The Ambience
Enjoy exquisite Italian food, wine, gelato and pastries, in the setting of an Italian piazza while listening to strolling musicians playing mandolin, accordion and violin.
Extreme Sculpting Experience
All Day Enterainment
Renowned sculptor Peter Rubino will create a 200 lb clay sculpture live on stage choreographed to music!
Italian Car Show
Frank Sinatra tribute..Traditional Italian folk songs..Singers performing operatic and popular Italian songs..Pianist performing “Italian Ragtime”..a comedic act teaching Italian hand gestures, Italian words and phrases..and more.
Italy Comes Matthews!to
The Finale
for details.
Sunday, Sept. 21 at 7:30 PM – “Viva Italia” Experience a spectacular stage production featuring scenes from beloved operas, along with lively Italian folk and traditional music. A true celebration of Italy’s rich musical heritage!
Special Offerings for Donors
Contribute a tax-deductible donation of $5 or more at the gate and save 10% on all vendor items.
PASSAPORTO CIAO ITALIA MATTHEWS
REGIONAL
NOURISH UP RECEIVES
30,000 POUNDS OF FOOD
By Morgan Jepson Contributor
CHARLOTTE
– Nourish Up recently received nearly 30,000 pounds of frozen ground beef and pork roast from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to serve those in need across the Charlotte-Mecklenburg community.
“We are deeply grateful to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for their
extraordinary generosity in donating a truckload of 30,000 pounds of frozen meat,” said Tina Postel, CEO of Nourish Up. “ is incredible gift will help feed more than 10,000 individuals, including hardworking families, seniors living on xed incomes and children who were home this summer without access to free and reduced-price school lunches. Watching the truck pull into our delivery dock felt like a miracle moment. On behalf of all those we serve, thank you for your unwavering commitment to ghting hunger and uplifting lives.”
Nourish Up provides groceries to tens of thousands of Charlotteans each year, including families, children, veterans and seniors experiencing food insecurity. In just the first half of 2025 (January-June), Nourish Up served a total of 82,124 individuals. is support comes at a critical time, as federal cuts to the TEFAP program have reduced available food commodities by 50%, including frozen meat, dairy and fresh produce.
“As followers of Jesus Christ, we seek to
love our neighbors and serve those in need,” said Eddie Norton, a local faith leader for the Church of Jesus Christ in the Gastonia area. “We are grateful for the opportunity to link arms with Nourish Up in providing nourishment and hope to fellow brothers and sisters across our community.”
Community members who would like to support Nourish Up can volunteer, donate food, or give nancially to help provide groceries for neighbors facing hunger. More information is available at https://nourishup.org.
ANSWER Scholarship expands to support more moms
CHARLOTTE – ANSWER Scholarship is expanding.
e nonpro t, which mentors and supports mothers in Mecklenburg and surrounding counties as they earn a college education, has added more opportunities for moms to be part of its program.
ANSWER Scholarship will now o er scholarships toward any remote four-year degree from any accredited, nonpro t college or university in the Carolinas.
“We realized that mothers really wanted, and often needed, the convenience of fully online classes to make their education possible,” founder Susan Andersen said.
e ANSWER Scholarship is open to mothers in Mecklenburg and surrounding counties who have at least one school-age child from pre-kindergarten to 12th grade living at home.
Candidates can seek:
• A first-time bachelor’s degree in any subject;
• An associate degree in nursing from any
community college in the Carolinas; or
• Additional associate degrees at Central Piedmont Community College, including business and accounting, construction and trades, design and architecture, engineering, health care, information technology, and mathematics and science.
Scholarships are up to $5,500 annually for a four-year degree, and up to $2,750 annually for an associate degree.
ANSWER scholar moms receive a mentor.
ese volunteers o er scholars support and guidance on balancing family, work and school. ANSWER Scholarship also o ers training on networking and other essential workplace skills.
More than 150 moms have received a total of $951,502 in college scholarships from ANSWER Scholarship since the organization’s founding in 2006. e next application opens on Nov. 1. Visit answerscholarship.org to apply or learn more.
Susan Andersen, founder of ANSWER Scholarship, sits in the middle of 2025-26 scholars. Photo courtesy of ANSWER Scholarship
Nourish Up receives a truckload of donated food. Photos courtesy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Leaders badly mishandled Charlotte killing
By John Hood Contributor
RALEIGH – Long before the release of a video graphically depicting Iryna Zarutska being stabbed to death on a Charlotte train, state and local leaders should have publicly mourned her death and expressed outrage at so appalling a crime. Now they’re paying the price.
Every homicide is a tragedy. Every innocent victim deserves our sympathy. But within hours of Zarutska’s slaying on Aug. 22, it should have been obvious this case would create more than a one-day story. For starters, Zarutska was a Ukrainian refugee. She’d fled a country subject to nightly attacks by a terrorist state targeting civilians – only to be stabbed to death on her way home from work, in the very country where she thought she’d be
safe.
e man charged with her murder, Decarlos Brown Jr., was well known to local authorities. His long rap sheet included arrests for breaking and entering, burglary, larceny and other crimes. He’d resisted arrest, blown o court appearances and spent time in prison. His history of mental illness and violence led his mother to have him committed to a psychiatric facility, but he’d been released after two weeks.
Furthermore, this incident was only the latest in a series of crimes committed within the city’s transit system. As WCNC-TV reported during its initial coverage of Zarutska’s slaying, another person had been assaulted earlier in the week on a Charlotte bus. As it happens, Mecklenburg County voters will in November approve or reject a onecent hike in the local sales tax for transportation, mostly for transit. at is also general-election day for Charlotte’s municipal o ces.
So far, I’ve described a war-refugee story, an urban-crime story, a mental-illness story, a transit story and a local-elections story. All raised important questions that merited serious, sustained attention from our leaders. It wasn’t until two weeks later, however, that Gov. Josh Stein issued a statement – after a horrifying video of the crime was released and, entirely predictably, went viral.
“I am heartbroken for the family of Iryna Zarutska, who lost their loved one to this senseless act of violence, and I am appalled by the footage of her murder,” he said. “We need more cops on the beat to keep people safe.”
" at’s why my budget calls for more funding to hire more welltrained police o cers. I call upon the legislature to pass my law enforcement recruitment and retention package to address vacancies in our state and local agencies so they can stop these horri c crimes and
CLASSIFIEDS
Finance Project Manager. Compass Group USA, Inc. Charlotte, NC. May telco up to 2 dys / wk frm w/in comm dist of Charlotte, NC office. Mst wrk at least 3 dys / wk in off & be avail on shrt notice for in off mtngs, days in off may flex. Define proj scope, goals & delivrbls that spprt bus goals. M-F 8a - 5p. Reqs Mast in BA, Mgmt, Proj Mgmt, Org Ldrshp / rel / equiv. Reqs 3 yrs: dev cross-funct proc impr initiatives & impl; pres initiatives to sr. ldrs; MS PP & Excel; 2 yrs: fin PM; wrk in lg co (> 3 billn USD sales); MS Proj; create proj doc; 1 yr: SP; Smartsheet; food serv ind exp. Reqs 10% US trav. Apply: res to: shared.talentacquisitionoperations@compass-usa.com & ref #116437.
Software Engineer III, F/T at Truist Bank (Charlotte, NC) Deliver highly complex solutions w/ significant system linkages, dependencies, associated risk. Lead & perform dvlpmt efforts such as analysis, dsgn, coding/creating, & testing. Must have Bach’s deg in Comp Sci, Comp Engg, Electrical/ Electronics Engg or related tech’l field. Must have 6 yrs of progressive exp in s/ware engg or IT consulting positions performing the following: Data engg, w/ a focus on ETL processes & integration; working w/ Informatica PowerCenter for ETL dvlpmt & data pipeline orchestration OR AWS Glue for building, automating & managing ETL pipelines in a cloud environment; dsgng & dvlpg data pipelines & data workflows for large-scale data systems; dvlpg data transformations, data loading mechanisms, & managing data integration at scale; data warehousing, dimensional modeling & dsgng ETL architectures for large-scale data systems; supporting Production apps to fix mission critical production issues, enhance the applications to implmt additional features; 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 expd teammates; proficiency in prgmg/scripting languages, incl Python, Scala & SQL for ETL scripting & automation; Relational d/bases, incl MySQL or Microsoft SQL Server; applying knowl of data storage techniques; working w/ GIT or other version control systems; CI/CD pipeline tools for automated deployment of ETL processes. Position may be eligible to work in a hybrid remote model & is based out of & reports to Truist offices in Charlotte, NC. Applicants must be able to work onsite at Truist offices in Charlotte, NC at least 4 days/ wk. Apply online (https://careers.truist.com/) or email resume to: recruitment@truist.com (Ref Job #R0106237).
hold violent criminals accountable.”
Stein’s rhetorical approach was ill-advised, to say the least. Decarlos Brown has been arrested many times. In almost every case, it seems, the charges were dropped or plea-bargained away. His one stay in prison was insu cient. Attempts to deter him, treat him or at least keep him far away from potential victims had failed miserably. ese were failures by prosecutors and courts, not the police. To most readers and viewers, then, blaming the incident on a lack of o cers – and using it to pressure the legislature for more state funds for a traditionally local responsibility – came across as tone-deaf.
As for Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles, her early statement describing the killing as a “tragic situation that sheds light on problems with society safety nets related to mental health care” earned her widespread condemnation. After the video was released, Lyles chided media outlets
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION COUNTY OF MECKLENBURG CASE NO. 25CV033151-590
JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., Plainti , v. PRESTIGE CHARLOTTE, LLC, JUAN PABLO LOPEZ, FYSEL MARWAN ELHULU and ZANE ABDULLAH IMREISH, Defendant(s).
NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION
To Defendant: Fysel Marwan Elhulu
for broadcasting it while also decrying the “senseless and tragic loss” of Zarutska and saying she was praying for the victim’s family and friends.
I’m of the belief that leaders ought to o er their “thoughts and prayers” to victims of crime and natural disasters, so that part didn’t bother me. But I also agree with National Review’s Charlie Cooke, who wrote that Lyles’s initial statement made her sound “far more interested in the feelings of criminals than of the people they torment.”
After years of highly publicized, highly politicized homicides, public o cials have had ample opportunity to learn how to handle them. is ain’t it.
John Hood is a John Locke Foundation board member. His books “Mountain Folk,” “Forest Folk” and “Water Folk” combine epic fantasy with American history (FolkloreCycle.com).
Take notice that a pleading seeking relief against you has been led in the above-entitled action. e nature of the relief being sought is as follows: · Plainti seeks judgment against you for breach of contract and breach of continuing guarantees, together with recovery of attorney’s fees, costs, and such other relief as the Court deems just and proper You are required to make defense to such pleading not later than forty (40) days after the rst publication of this notice, exclusive of such date, and upon your failure to do so, the party seeking service against you will apply to the court for the relief sought.
is the 19th day of September, 2025.
Jill C. Walters Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, P.C. 2235 Gateway Access Point, Suite 220 Raleigh, NC 27607 (984) 844-7919 jwalters@bakerdonelson.com Attorneys for Plainti
NEWS BRIEFS
Monroe Police Department makes arrest in shooting case
MONROE – Officers with the Monroe Police Department responded to a report of shots fired at 8:12 a.m. Sept. 10 at City Discount Tobacco and Vape, 2705 Walkup Ave.
Officers determined that a verbal altercation occurred inside the business. Police said one individual retrieved a handgun during the dispute and chased two others outside before firing shots into their vehicle as they fled.
The shooter was identified as Uteak Akale Chambers, 18, of Monroe.
Officers responded to Cotton Street at 2:26 p.m. to serve a warrant for his arrest.
Police said Chambers fled on foot as detectives approached. K9 Narco tracked Chambers to a briar patch, where he was found
LIVE MUSIC
Joshua Radin opens up on tour
CHARLOTTE – Singer-songwriter Joshua Radin will embark on a nationwide tour this fall in support of his latest album, “One Day Home.”
Radin’s 35-city, cross-country trek includes a performance in Charlotte at the Neighborhood Theatre on Oct. 11.
“One Day Home” marks his 10th fulllength LP and first independent release since 2017.
Radin’s latest album offers 13 new songs that highlight his blend of vulnerability and storytelling, making this his most introspective album yet.
“One Day Home is about love and loss,” Radin said. “It’s the journey of a romantic relationship: the ups and downs, the moments you chase and the moments you accidentally destroy. The memories of a partnership can sometimes feel stronger than the actual connection, the ecstasy of finding a like-minded soul and the devastation upon losing them. It’s about discovering what the word ‘home’ actually means.”
Sept. 19
• Amos’ Southend: Savannah Dexter & Brabo Gator
• Char Bar No. 7 (Mint Hill): Savannah Harmon
• Evening Muse: Peter Bradley Adams; J.T. Loux & Arsun
• Home Brew Taproom & Tunes: The Violent Gypsies
• Middle James Brewing (Pineville): Miles Mann
• Moochies Tavern: Matt Coleman; Flashback
• Neighborhood Theatre: Jake Kohn + Low Water Bridge Band
• Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre: Parker McCollum
• Southern Range Brewing: Me and Lulu
• Stooges Pub & Grub: Black Glass
DINING SCORES
hiding and failed to comply with officers’ commands, police said.
Chambers was taken into custody and transported to a hospital for minor injuries sustained during the K9 apprehension. After being medically cleared, he was booked into the Union County Detention Center. He was held on a $5,000 secured bond.
Chambers was arrested on charges of assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, discharging a firearm into an occupied vehicle and discharging a firearm within city limits.
Mint Hill Madness Pop-Up Market to have 80+ vendors
MINT HILL – The Mint Hill Madness Pop-Up Market will feature more than 80 vendors, offering an array of boutiques,
• The Trail House: U-Phonik
• The Underground: Matt Maltese
Sept. 20
• Amos’ Southend: Mico
• Bojangles Coliseum: Alicia Villarreal
• Evening Muse: Chozen Dee and Lord Vizion w/ Tukool Tiff; Pump Action
• Grapes Bistro and Wine Bar: Josey Wails
• Great Wagon Road Distilling: Coconut Groove Band
• Home Brew Taproom & Tunes: Chad
Thomas Powell
• Local Logic: Nate Randall
• Moochies Tavern: Minutes Past Midnight
• Painted Tree Boutique: Carrie Ann
• Peddlers Paradise Bartique: Jam Central
• PNC Music Pavilion: Alice Cooper & Judas Priest
• Southern Range Brewing: The Stark Reality
• Stooges Pub & Grub: Queen City Siren
• The Fillmore: Pup & Jeff Rosenstock
• The Trail House: Chasing Phoenix
• The Underground: Dark Angel Extinc-
tion Level Event
• Waxhaw Taphouse: Hot Tub Johnny
Sept. 21
• Bojangles Coliseum: Ken Carson
• Evening Muse: Jill Andrews
• Home Brew Taproom & Tunes: Dixie
Electric Duo
• Moochies Tavern: Darren Deese
• Neighborhood Theatre: John Mark McMillan + Citizens
• The Amp Ballantyne: Ziggy Marley
• The Fillmore: Bilmuri
• The Underground: Aidan Bissett
• The Union Exchange: Adam Daniels
Sept. 22
• Evening Muse: Open Mic
• The Underground: G-Flip
independent home sales, small shops, food, arts, crafts and handmade items.
The festival takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 4 at Mint Hill Veterans Memorial Park, 8850 Fairview Road.
Several food trucks will be available at the festival, including Mister Greek, B Cooks!, The Plated Palette, Mama K’s Kettle Corn, Treasured Treats, Sippin’ Sisters and Lief Café.
• AFC Zenshi (Publix), 5132 Old Charlotte Hwy. – 100 • Benton Crossroads Grill, 6004 Concord Hwy. – 93 • Chili’s Grill & Bar, 2861 W. U.S. 74 – 97 • El Mero Mero Taco Grill, 5432 Pageland Hwy. – 92.5
• Patty and The Dogs, 217 N. Hayne St. –99.5 • Publix (meat), 5132 Old Charlotte Hwy. – 100 • Publix (seafood), 5132 Old Charlotte Hwy. – 100
Executive Committee.
The meeting takes place from 4 to 5 p.m. Sept. 24 at the Charlotte Mecklenburg Government Center (Room 266), 600 E. 4th St., Charlotte.
The coalition connects communities and partners across the I-77 corridor to develop recommendations to the CRTPO board that will improve mobility in the surrounding areas. Its executive committee receives recommendations from the advisory committee and works with staff to prioritize recommendations.
The CRTPO is the metropolitan planning organization for the greater Charlotte urban area, including Mecklenburg and Union counties.
On the web: crtpo.org
• The Fillmore: 820 Hamilton St.
• The Underground: 820 Hamilton St.
Indian Trail
• Grapes Bistro and Wine Bar: 6461 Old Monroe Road
• Tap & Vine: 6443 Old Monroe Road
• The Trail House: 6751 Old Monroe Road
Matthews
• Painted Tree Boutique: 1813 Matthews Township Pkwy.
Mint Hill
• Char Bar No. 7: 7312 Town View Drive
• Stooges Pub & Grub: 13230 Albemarle Road
Monroe
• Franklin Court
•
Charlotte Symphony Orchestra to premiere sonic logo
CHARLOTTE – The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra and Music Director Kwamé Ryan will soon debut a new sonic logo, commissioned from Grammy Award-winning composer Mason Bates.
The reveal will take place at the opening concerts of its 2025-26 Classical Series at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 10 and 11 at the Knight Theater.
The sonic logo is a brief musical signature created to accompany the symphony’s refreshed brand identity unveiled last year. It represents a first in orchestral branding.
Bates, one of the most widely performed living American composers and a Grammy Award winner for his opera “The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs,” described the audio logo as an attempt to “capture both the excitement and depth of emotion of Kwamé Ryan and the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra.”
Sonic logos are familiar in media and technology, from Netflix’s “ta-dum” to NBC’s iconic three chimes. This commission represents a first in orchestral music.
The Charlotte Symphony will use the new audio identity across digital platforms, broadcasts, media communications and in the concert hall.
“From the moment I first saw our new visual logo, I felt it was calling out for its own sound,” Ryan said. “I immediately thought of my friend Mason Bates, whose music beautifully bridges the classical and contemporary. With Mason’s ‘sonic logo’ – written in a style audiences will instantly recognize from over a century of popular culture, starting with MGM’s iconic lion’s roar – we are signaling that the CSO is deeply rooted in tradition while being attuned to how people experience sound today.”
The unveiling of the sonic logo comes as the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra enters its second season with Ryan at the helm.
The series-opening concerts will also feature Bates’s “Attack Decay Sustain Release,” followed by Shostakovich’s “Cello Concerto No. 1, “with soloist Joshua Roman, and Shostakovich’s “Symphony No. 5.” The Saturday performance will be broadcast live on WDAV 89.9.
Tickets for the concert start at $40 and are available now at charlottesymphony.org.
