The 11-21-2025 Edition of The Charlotte Weekly Matthews-Mint Hill

MATTHEWS – Greater Matthews

Habitat for Humanity brought together more than 30 volunteers Nov. 8 to help support homeowners during its Rock the Block neighborhood preservation event.

Over the course of the morning, volunteers completed projects at ve homes in a Matthews neighborhood, working side by side with homeowners to make exterior improvements such as landscaping, painting and pressure washing. ese e orts are part of Habitat’s broader Aging in Place and Home Preservation initiatives.

Through Aging in Place, Greater Matthews Habitat partners with older adults to

complete home modi cations that improve accessibility, safety and independence. is helps them remain in their homes and communities they love as they age.

e Home Preservation program focuses on critical repairs and exterior improvements that address health and safety concerns while maintaining the integrity and a ordability of existing housing stock.

“It’s about building relationships and showing that when neighbors come together, we can preserve the places that make Matthews feel like home,” said Natisha Rivera, president and CEO of Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity. “Each project completed represents a tangible step toward ensuring

CHARLOTTE – The 21st running of the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon experienced a record turnout.

A record-setting 11,500 athletes entered the marathon, half marathon and 5K events. And for the second year in a row, all events reached capacity.

“ is event has turned into a big deal,” said Tim Rhodes, managing partner and race director for the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon. “ is is a celebration of everything these runners have worked for – whether they’re setting a PR, qualifying for Boston or nishing for the very rst time – they’re choosing to do it in Charlotte.”

Runners representing all 50 states and 19 countries made up the eld. Knoxville’s Carter Coughlin was the overall winner of the marathon. Jessica Sarnicola of Matthews won the women’s title. In another rst, Elisabeth Laseter of Charlotte defended her title in the Chickl-A 5K event, besting her 2024 nish

By Alan Wooten Contributor

( e Center Square) – Eighty-one arrests were made by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agents during the rst day of immigration enforcement in Charlotte on Nov. 15, Commander Gregory K. Bovino said of the operation known as Charlotte’s Web.

“Signi cant criminal and immigration history” was cited for many. People he says are in the country illegally, some with multiple deportations only to return, and with charges like aggravated assault, weapons violations and impaired driving, are pictured on Bovino’s social media feed.

President Donald Trump has sent the National Guard to the cities of Washington, Los Angeles and Memphis, with authorizations for Chicago and Portland blocked by judges.

time by nearly 18 seconds.

Lancaster, South Carolina runner Nathaneal Williams may also have set a new world record for fastest half marathon pushing a double stroller. According to the Guinness World Records site, the fastest men’s time currently stands at 1:14:20. Williams clocked a 1:12:57 on the Charlotte half marathon course.

“ e last few miles, I was hurting pretty good,” Williams said of his fast nish.

“ e next steps are to send the results to Guinness to con rm that as the new record.”

2025 Novant Health Charlotte

Marathon Event Winners

• Men’s Marathon Winner: Carter Coughlin, 2:31:44 (Knoxville, Tennessee)

• Women’s Marathon Winner: Jessica Sarnicola, 3:01:48 (Matthews) Novant Health Charlotte Marathon

Half Marathon

• Men’s Winner: Alexis Collumb,

families can continue living safely and proudly in their homes.”

Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity launched Rock the Block in 2023. e day of high-impact service focuses on neighborhood improvement and beauti cation.

“Events like Rock the Block show how small improvements can create big change,” said Je rey Elam, housing services director. “When volunteers lend their time and skills, they’re helping to preserve a ordable housing and strengthen the fabric of our community.”

Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity plans a Rock the Block event in Mint Hill in the spring. Reach out to Liz Sweeney, volunteer and engagement manager, at

CHARLOTTE MARATHON ATTRACTS LARGEST FIELD YET

1:04:31 (Yvrech, France)

• Women’s Winner: Abigail Herring, 1:16:41 (Parkersburg, West Virginia)

Chick-fil-A 5K

• Men’s Winner: Silas Floyd Fair, 15:50 (Charlotte)

• Women’s Winner: Elizabeth Laseter, 16:38 (Charlotte)

liz@habitatmatthews.org to learn how to request services for your neighborhood or how to get involved as a volunteer.

Mint Hill Christmas Parade to honor mayor, first lady

MINT HILL – Brad and Renee Simmons will serve as grand marshals for the 2025 Mint Hill Christmas Parade in honor of their contributions to the town.

Brad has served as mayor for the past six years while Renee has ful lled the role of rst lady. eir dedication to Mint Hill extends beyond their o cial roles, as both have been involved in numerous local organizations, such as the Kiwanis Club, Mint Hill Women’s Club, Mint Hill Athletic Association and Arlington Baptist Church. ey’ve called Mint Hill home since 1984. is is a milestone year for the family as Brad steps down as mayor.

“As I depart from o ce, I am optimistic about the future,” Simmons wrote in a letter to the community posted on the town’s Facebook page. “Our collective e orts have demonstrated the accomplishments possible through collaboration. I have faith in Mayor-elect Dale Dalton and the incoming board of commissioners to continue this progress. Let us remain committed, support one another and work to ensure that Mint Hill continues to develop and prosper.”

The parade will begin at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 6. e route will follow Bain School Road to Matthews-Mint Hill Road and end at the Mint Hill Library. Parade-goers can expect oats, marching bands, re trucks and lots of lights.

After the parade, activities continue at Mint Hill Town Hall, where attendees will nd food trucks and live entertainment at the Christmas tree lighting ceremony.

Entertainment will start at 6 p.m. e tree lighting follows at 7:30 p.m. Santa will be available to visit children.

Novant Health is sponsoring the parade and tree lighting.

On the web: facebook.com/minthillevents

Traffic alert

Matthews-Mint Hill Road from N.C. 218 to Brighton Park Drive will be closed to vehicular trafc starting at 4 p.m.

Charlotte’s Web nets 81 arrests on first day

result in forfeiture of vehicle.

e total arrests as a comparison of cities is not apples-to-apples. For example, the White House said 23 arrests were made the rst day in the nation’s capital where the objective was crime reduction. In Los Angeles, protests including blocked freeways followed the beginning of enforcement actions by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement; ICE detained 44 the rst day. Hundreds were charged related to behavior around protests.

And in Memphis, the National Guard, Memphis Police Department and Tennessee Highway Patrol formed the Memphis Safe Task Force. From nine arrests the rst day to 93 in the rst few days, the volume was spread through the agencies.

Border Patrol began operations Nov. 15 in the Queen City. Bovino, in one social media post among multiple Nov. 16, pointed

out how those being detained are in grocery stores and on the highways despite “arrests for aggravated assault, assault with a dangerous weapon and DUI. He has also been removed from the U.S. twice, so now that he’s here again, he committed a felony by reentering the U.S.”

Two others were from Mexico, Bovino said. One, he wrote, “gets deported four times, strolls back to Charlotte, then racks up a hit and run and a DWI? It’s time to go back home.” e other wore the hoody of Fayetteville’s Methodist University, and Bovino said he had three convictions for DWI. State law requires a mandatory minimum 12-month prison sentence that cannot be suspended for a third DWI conviction within 10 years. It is called habitual impaired driving, comes with a ne up to $10,000 and could

Bovino’s post did not say if the convictions were within 10 years or if the judicial system waived any element of punishment.

On Nov. 16, Homeland Security said a lawman was injured by an American citizen it says, “weaponized his vehicle, driving a large van at law enforcement while they were conducting an operation.” It happened near University City area.

Prior to the Border Patrol arriving, Charlotte and Mecklenburg County o cials issued public statements about the enforcement. Gov. Josh Stein posted on social media Nov. 14 asking for peace and saying public safety is a priority.

U.S. Reps. Mark Harris, Pat Harrigan and Chuck Edwards on Nov. 5 asked Stein to send the National Guard to the city.

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Scout Motors selects Charlotte for corporate HQ

CHARLOTTE

– Scout Motors has chosen Charlotte as the site of its new corporate headquarters, bringing more than 1,200 high-quality jobs to the region in the coming years.

e decision follows a multi-state search and positions Charlotte as the long-term home for leadership, R&D, nance, sales, marketing and other key functions as the company prepares for production of its Scout Traveler SUVs and Scout Terra trucks.

CEO Scott Keogh said Charlotte’s talent pool, universities and innovative spirit made it “the ideal home” for the brand.

e headquarters will be located in Plaza Midwood’s Commonwealth development, complementing Scout Motors’ Production Center under construction in Blythewood, S.C., where production is expected to begin in 2027.

Tryon will accept Humana Medicare Advantage In 2026

CHARLOTTE – Tryon Medical Partners will begin accepting Humana Medicare Advantage plans at its 10 Charlotte-area clinics starting in 2026.

“Tryon and Humana are fully aligned in our steadfast commitment to primary and preventive healthcare for all patients, particularly those aged 65 and older who require more support,” said Dr. Robert Brownlee, president of Tryon Medical Partners. “We look forward to working with Humana on early detection initiatives and chronic condition management, to improve clinical outcomes and keep patients out of the emergency room unnecessarily.”

Humana o ers Medicare Advantage plans that support seniors’ independence and healthy living.

e annual Medicare open enrollment period ends Dec. 7.

On the web: tryonmed.com and humana.com/medicare

704 Shop, Lions Services launch upcycling initiative

CHARLOTTE – Charlotte lifestyle brand 704 Shop has partnered with Lions Services to launch (En) Vision, an upcycling initiative.

e project transforms donated

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and thrifted apparel into one-of-akind pieces handcrafted by Lions Services employees. Proceeds support the nonpro t’s mission to provide meaningful employment and training for people who are blind or visually impaired. is initiative is made possible through the support of Carolina Ascent, Charlotte Hornets, Charlotte Checkers, UNC Charlotte Athletics, Carolina Panthers and Alley-Oop Culture Exchange, who have contributed apparel and materials to bring this vision to life.

e (En)Vision Collection features 13 unique upcycled garments available via online auction now through Dec. 14 at 704shop.com/ collections/lions-services.

Health plan available for small businesses

MATTHEWS – e NC Chamber is partnering with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina to provide a new health plan designed to make coverage more affordable for small businesses, their employees and families.

Carolina HealthWorks is available to members of the Matthews Area Chamber and other participating chambers. It uses a multiple employer welfare arrangement (MEWA) model, allowing small businesses to pool resources for better rates and bene ts typically reserved for larger employers.

Businesses with 2 to 50 employees can enroll year-round through Blue Cross NC-appointed agents.

“In Matthews and the surrounding communities, small businesses are a driving force in our local economy and signi cant employers,” said Jessica Tullar, president and CEO of the Matthews Area Chamber. “We are excited to o er this new opportunity in partnership with the NC Chamber and Blue Cross NC to help our small business and their employees access a ordable health care.”

On the web: ncchamber.com or bluecrossnc.com

Avelo Airlines to offer Chicago, Nashville flights CONCORD – Avelo Airlines announced two new nonstop routes at Charlotte’s Concord-Padgett Regional Airport (USA) to Chicago, Illinois and Nashville, Tennessee.

Beginning in February 2026, Avelo will operate these routes using Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft. ese exclusive routes expand on Avelo’s air service introduced to the Queen City region in May 2024.

NEWS BRIEFS

Lift Up Carolinas delivers food to families

CHARLOTTE – Lift Up Carolinas’ Check Hunger program provided food assistance recently to Whitewater Elementary School families through a mobile pantry event supported by corporate and community partners.

In 75 minutes, volunteers distributed more than 12,000 pounds of food, including a 10- to 15-pound frozen turkey for each family and a 24-pound USDA box of pantry staples.

Executive Director Jessica Trosch thanked Publix Super Market Charities for sponsoring the event, and praised school sta as “true champions for their students.”

Check Hunger supports Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools yearround through mobile pantries and weekend food-backpack programs, in partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina and community sponsors. On the web: liftupcarolinas.org.

Carolina Charm raises nearly $400,000

CHARLOTTE – The Isabella Santos Foundation’s inaugural Carolina Charm event raised nearly $400,000 to support fertility preservation programs for children and young adults facing rare cancers in Charlotte and Charleston.

e event drew more than 500 guests for an evening of cocktails, auctions and Southern-inspired celebration Oct. 23 at e Revelry North End.

Bravo personalities Shep Rose and Austen Kroll made special

“Avelo’s new nonstop routes to Chicago and Nashville showcase the continued demand for convenient, a ordable and industry-leading reliability in the Queen City region,” Avelo Airlines Founder and CEO Andrew Levy said.

Travelers can book at AveloAir. com.

Charlotte Music Census extended through Nov. 23

CHARLOTTE – e Charlotte Music Census has been extended through Nov. 23, giving musicians, venues, educators and industry professionals more time to share insights about the region’s music ecosystem at CharlotteMusicCensus.org.

e census is part of a national effort to strengthen local music communities through data-driven understanding.

“If you help make music happen in any way – on stage, behind the scenes, in the studio, behind the camera or in support of artists – your input is essential,” said Rick urmond, executive director of Music Everywhere CLT.

Responses are con dential, with results to be shared publicly later this year.

Truliant doubles donations for hunger relief

WINSTON-SALEM – Truliant Federal Credit Union and the Truliant Foundation are matching all donations made to the foundation through Dec. 31, up to $50,000, to benefit food banks across the Carolinas and Virginia.

To kick o the Donate Dollars – Feeding Our Neighbors in Need campaign, Truliant is providing an initial gift of $50,000 to help food banks with de cits caused by the increased need for food in recent weeks.

Funds will be distributed to Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina in Charlotte, Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest North Carolina in the Triad, Harvest Hope in South Carolina and Feeding Southwest Virginia.

Donations can be made at TruliantFCU.org/donate.

Retailers join The Pass in NoDa Arts District

CHARLOTTE – The Pass, a 12-acre mixed-use community in NoDa, continues to grow with new local retailers Café Audire and e Dog’s Club joining the lineup this year. ey’ll open alongside Mariah’s Taco Spot, Locker Room CLT, and Common read Salon in the

appearances, and emcees Miranda Miller and Danielle Trotta led the program, which featured a moving message from cancer survivor Hensley Hancu .

“Carolina Charm was everything we hoped it would be: a night lled with laughter, generosity and heart,”

Executive Director Erin Santos said.

“We’re so thankful to everyone who showed up, donated and believed in this mission.”

The money will benefit fertility preservation initiatives at Atrium Health Levine Children’s and MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital, advancing ISF’s mission to ll gaps in pediatric survivorship care across the Carolinas.

Authors attending Southern Christmas Show

CHARLOTTE –  e 58th annual Southern Christmas Show not only o ers a wealth of holiday ideas and shopping. It also hosts notable authors now through Nov. 23 at Park Expo and Conference Center.

Authors attending the show from Nov. 21 to 23 include:

• Dreama Denver, who leads e Denver Foundation, wrote the book “Island to Icon: The Many Lives of Bob Denver,” about her late husband.

• Richard V. Battle, a Texas-based author of 12 books, including "Life’s Daily Treasures,” “ e Unopened Present” and “Surviving Grief by God’s Grace.”

• Dan E. Hendrickson, author of historical- ction adventure “Magi Apprentice.”

• Charlotte author-illustrator Ashley Belote is a multi-award-winning

now fully leased Raleigh Street retail suites. Opening this winter, Café Audire is a vinyl listening room that will serve teas and locally sourced co ee during the day and custom cocktails in the evening. It will also o er baked goods and nger foods. e Dog’s Club is a premium dog grooming salon o ering grooming, bathing, cuts and spa-quality services such as facials with high-end products.

On the web: thepassclt.com

Moore & Van Allen earns national, metro rankings

CHARLOTTE – Moore & Van Allen PLLC announced that nine of its practice areas have earned national rankings in the 2026 edition of Best Law Firms. e rm also earned 51 Tier 1 rankings among its 74 total metropolitan rankings. e 2026 edition of Best Law Firms ranks firms in 75 national practice areas and 127 metropolitan areas. Rankings are based on a methodology that includes client evaluations, peer reviews and information provided by law rms through a formal submission process.

Financial planner releases book

CHARLOTTE – Financial planner Shane Tenny explores why even high-earning couples can feel overwhelmed as their finances expand in his new book, “Your Next Million: How Couples Succeed (or Stumble) When Money Multiplies.” Tenny blends client stories with behavioral nance insights to show how emotions and biases in uence good and bad money decisions. He introduces the “Six Money Multipliers,” practical principles to help readers avoid costly missteps and align their wealth with their values.

“The hardest part of financial planning isn’t the math,” Tenny said. “It’s the mindset.”

“Your Next Million” (120 pages) is available on Amazon in hard copy for $14.95 and Kindle for $9.95.

Barnes & Noble announces Book of the Year winners

NEW YORK – Barnes & Noble has named “Mona’s Eyes” by omas Schlesser (Europa Editions) as its 2025 Book of the Year, honoring a moving novel about art, family and memory.

“Good ings” by Samin Nosrat (Random House) was named Gift Book of the Year, while “I Am Rebel” by Ross Montgomery

creator of children’s books, including “Witch & Wombat,” “Sheepwrecked,” “Don’t Wash Winston,” “Listen Up, Louella,” “ e Me Tree” and “A Partridge in the We Tree.”

Novant Health offers noninvasive option for liver cancer

WINSTON-SALEM – Novant Health is offering histotripsy, a groundbreaking, noninvasive treatment for cancers involving the liver. e Edison Histotripsy System, available at the Novant Health Derrick L. Davis Cancer Institute, uses focused ultrasound waves to destroy tumor cells without surgery or incisions.

“ is technology brings new hope to patients facing cancer in the liver,” said Dr. David Sindram, a surgeon at Novant Health Cancer Institute. “We can now deliver more precise treatment without conventional surgery and help patients experience better outcomes with fewer side e ects.”

e introduction of this technology was made possible by nearly $1 million in philanthropic support from donors through Novant Health Foundation.

On the web: novanthealth.org/ cancer

Atrium Health hospitals earn A rating in safety report CHARLOTTE – e Leapfrog Group has awarded nine Atrium Health hospitals an “A” rating for excellence in patient safety on its fall 2025 patient safety report card.

Atrium Health Union in Monroe earned its sixth consecutive “A”

(Candlewick Press) and “Growing Home” by Beth Ferry, illustrated by e Fan Brothers (Simon & Schuster), tied as Children’s Books of the Year.

Booksellers at over 700 Barnes & Noble bookstores nationwide vote for the book they are most proud to sell. Barnes & Noble has locations at Carolina Place Mall, Morrison Place and e Arboretum.

On the web: bn.com/ bookoftheyear.

Spectrum offers free internet speed boost for the holidays STAMFORD, Conn. – Spectrum is o ering a free week-long internet speed boost up to 1 Gig for Spectrum Internet Premier and eligible legacy Ultra and agship plan customers. Customers can activate their complimentary “Gig Week” upgrade through the My Spectrum App through Nov. 24, with speeds reverting on Dec. 2.

“Gig Week is our way of saying thank you on one of the busiest online weeks of the year by giving families the extra bandwidth to keep all their devices running smoothly, whether they’re catching up with family with video calls, streaming their favorite sports or grabbing the best Cyber Monday deals,” said Sharon Peters, executive vice president and chief marketing o cer.

On the web: Spectrum.net/mkt/ gig-week-2.

Quick Hits • Steak 48 will be open on Thanksgiving and have special hours (noon to 9 p.m.). Along with the full menu, Chef Heather King will carve elevated Thanksgiving staples, such as Roasted Turkey, Black Tru e Cabernet Pan Gravy, Seared Roasted Carrots and Tru e Mashed Potatoes. Call 980-5804848 to make reservations.

• Ruby Slipper and Ruby Sunshine have launched a new $1, $3, $5 fundraising campaign to bene t food banks and SNAP recipients. The Charlotte campaign, which spans now through Dec. 20, bene ts Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina.

• Toppers Pizza is selling Cheeseburger Pizza through Dec. 28. It features a tangy burger sauce base, mozzarella, cheddar cheese, seasoned beef, diced tomatoes, red onion and pickles.

• Nothing Bundt Cakes is selling Pumpkin Spice Bundt Cake through Dec. 7.

rating, maintaining the “Straight A” designation – an honor reserved for hospitals that sustained top ratings for ve or more grading rounds.

Atrium Health Union West in Stallings also earned an A rating. Leapfrog analysts evaluate publicly available data across 22 safety measures to assign grades based on how well hospitals are protecting patients from harm. Measurements include the hospital’s ability to prevent errors, accidents, injuries and infections. Twice a year, Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grades are assigned to nearly 3,000 general acute-care hospitals nationwide.

South End prepares for Shop Small Saturday CHARLOTTE – South End will kick o the 2025 holiday season on Nov. 29 with Shop Small Saturday featuring more than 120 small business vendors, holiday programming and free hot chocolate.

e longtime tradition drew over 12,000 attendees last year and o ers shoppers a chance to support local makers while nishing their gift lists. Visitors can browse the South End Farmers Market at Atherton, explore neighborhood retailers and collect stickers from participating shops to redeem for a limited-edition South End tote bag.

Santa will be on site near the Confetti Hearts Wall from noon to 3 p.m. for free photos, along with festive karaoke and giveaways. Holiday events continue throughout December.

On the web: southendclt.org

Nov. 22

Arts & Crafts Sale

Matthews United Methodist Church hosts an Arts & Crafts Extravaganza with nearly 80 vendors. Pick the perfect dessert to complete your anksgiving table from the Bake Sale and relax in the Christmas Cafe. Matthewsumc.org/events/arts-crafts-extravaganza.

9 a.m.-2 p.m.; 801 South Trade St., Matthews

Craft Sale

The Mint Hill Historical Society hosts its Christmas in the Village holiday craft show. minthillhistory.com/

9 a.m.-2 p.m.; 7601 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill

Family Storytime

Children ages 0-5 engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Matthews Library. Register at the train desk within 15 minutes of the program starting. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews

9:30-10 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews

Family Storytime

Families engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Mint Hill Library. Registration starts in person 30 minutes before the start of the event. cmlibrary.org/locations/Mint-Hill

9:30-10 a.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill

from 1A

Top 5 marathon finishers by community Names are followed by ranking of overall nish.

• Charlotte: Matthew Martin (3), Braden Lange (4), Lance Sotelo (5), Walt Guyer (10) and Chad Cope (14).

• Indian Trail: Chris Fryar (512), Jaeden Phelix (529), Zachary Hartman (710), Bongju Kim (931) and Derrick Smith (1,170).

• Matthews: Jessica Sarnicola (58), Brian Triplett (185), Austin Tillery (193), Zachary Coleman (216) and Anthony Watson (482).

• Mint Hill: Joshua Lewer (374), Horacio Hernandez (792), Joshua Darnell (851) and

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Paws to Read

Children ages 5-11 read to a volunteer therapy dog at Matthews Library. Sign up for a 15-minute session upon arrival. Registration opens 15 minutes before the rst session. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 10-11 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews

Nov. 24

Paws to Read

Children ages 5-11 read to a volunteer therapy dog at Matthews Library. Sign up for a 15-minute session upon arrival. Registration opens 15 minutes before the rst session. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews

3:30-4:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews

Karaoke

Ames Street Marketplace presents weekly karaoke at the Back Corner.

7-10 p.m.; 215 N. Ames St., Matthews

Nov. 25

Family Storytime

Children ages 0-5 engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Matthews Library. Register at the train desk within 15 minutes of the program starting. cmlibrary. org/locations/Matthews

10:15-10:45 or 11-11:30 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews

Yongmin Kim (2,651).

• Monroe: Caleb Watkins (44), Ricardo Torres (161), Tyler Hance (431), Andrew Simpson (501) and Brandon Tutkowski (574).

• Pineville: Luke Robinson (302), Eric Smith (907), Teresita Romero (1,010) and Jonathan Duncan (2,069).

• Waxhaw: Luke Moore (220), Mike Corbi (222), Yuri Montesclaros (270), Ryan Cox (353) and Bryan Broemel (354).

• Other Union towns: omas Hetzel, Weddington (98); David Oster, Marvin (1,349); Sarah Nichols, Marshville (1,985); and Jason Nichols, Marshville (1,986).

Find complete results for all events at https://results.raceroster. com/v3/events/3vgp2qeac5c9rhab

Family Storytime

Families engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Mint Hill Library. Registration starts in person 30 minutes before the start of the event. cmlibrary.org/locations/Mint-Hill 10:15-10:45 or 11-11:30 a.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill

Trivia Night Ames Street Marketplace hosts trivia on Tuesdays.

7 p.m.; 215 N. Ames St., Matthews

Nov. 26

Baby Storytime

Children ages 0-2 build language and socialization skills in Baby Storytime at Matthews Library. Register 15 minutes before the program. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 9:15-9:45 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews

Family Storytime

Children ages 0-5 engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Matthews Library. Register at the train desk within 15 minutes of the program starting. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews

10:15-10:45 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews

Anniversary Celebration

Mac's Heroes & Villains Comics & Collectibles celebrates its rst anniversary with giveaways and specials. macsheroesandvillains.com 11 a.m.; 11500 E. Independence Blvd., Matthews

Preschool Storytime

Children ages 3-5 engage in stories and songs during Preschool Storytime at Mint Hill Library. Registration opens 30 minutes before the program starts. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Mint-Hill 11:15-11:45 a.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill

Baby Storytime

Children ages 0-2 learn literacy skills through Baby and Toddler Storytime at Matthews Library. Register at the train desk within 15 minutes before the start. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Matthews

11:15-11:45 a.m. or noon-12:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews

Pawvs to Read

Children ages 5-11 read to a volunteer therapy dog at Matthews Library. Sign up for a 15-minute session upon arrival. Registration opens 15 minutes before the rst session. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 3:30-4:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews

Thanksgiving Eve Parade celebrates 79th year

CHARLOTTE

– The Novant Health Thanksgiving Eve Parade will kick off Uptown’s holiday season for the 79th year.

e parade will step o at 5:30 p.m. Nov. 26 on Tryon Street from 9th Street to Good Samaritan Way. e event will air live on WCCB starting at 6 p.m.

Last year’s parade saw more than 46,000 attendees, 1,000 volunteers and 85 units.

“ is parade is such a cherished Charlotte tradition, and we’re honored to once again

be part of a celebration that brings families together to share in gratitude and joy,” said Dr. Sid Fletcher, senior vice president and president of the greater Charlotte region for Novant Health.

Parade-goers can expect to see oats, massive balloons and performers from across the region.

e Battle of the Bands competition will also return, featuring nine regional high school bands. e winner of the competition

will be the rst band to perform in the 2026 parade.

“Each year, the Novant Health anksgiving Eve Parade reminds us that the holiday season truly begins when we all come together,” said Robert Krumbine, chief creative ofcer for Charlotte Center City Partners and parade producer. “We are excited to once again line the streets with performers, volunteers and specialty units that showcase the community, connection and collaboration

that make the city so special as we celebrate our 79th year.” e parade is free. VIP tickets are available at novanthealththanksgivingparade.com/ tickets for those looking for premium seating near the performance zone.

Organizers are looking for volunteers to walk as costumed cast members in the parade, handle the massive balloons or serve as parade marshals. Sign up at novanthealththanksgivingparade.com.

Bourbon for Booty raises more than $100K

CHARLOTTE – The fourth annual Bourbon for Booty raised more than $100,000 to support cancer navigation and survivorship programs funded by 24 Foundation. e sold-out event welcomed moer than 175 guests for an evening of curated whiskey and wine tastings, elevated cuisine and spirited community giving Nov. 1 at Swinerton.

“We raise a glass and extend huge thanks to all the attendees, our partners and to everyone involved in making our fourth annual

DINING SCORES

Bourbon for Booty a tremendous success,” said Katherine Murphy, executive director of 24 Foundation. “It was an exceptional evening to help change the course of cancer for individuals and families right here in our community.”

Guests received a souvenir-tasting glass and sampled from a curated lineup of 10 premium bourbons and wines, each paired with chef-crafted small bites and hors d’oeuvres by Roots Catering. e evening also featured music and a live

auction, which was called by Austin Helms, auctioneer and owner of Halftime Rentals.

Julian Sadur, a morning anchor with Queen City News, emceed the event.

Event partners included CarolinaPEO, Donald Haack Diamonds, Farsiani, LKN Mechanical, NuBlue and Swinerton. Bourbon partners included Brad Halling Whiskey Ko., Liberty & Plenty Distillery, Montana Whiskey Co., Oaklore Distilling and Southern Tier Distilling.

On the web: 24foundation.org

LIVE MUSIC

Little Orphan Alex comes to big Charlotte arena CHARLOTTE – Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Alex Warren is heading out on his first U.S. arena tour, Little Orphan Alex Live, with a stop at Spectrum Center on June 26, 2026.

General tickets go on sale Nov. 21 at 10 a.m. Warren is contributing $1 from every ticket sold to Camp Kesem, which supports kids with parents ghting cancer, through his partnership with PLUS1.

Warren’s debut album, “You’ll Be Alright, Kid,” is now certified Platinum, powered by the global, multi-Platinum hit “Ordinary.”

Warren has surpassed 5.6 billion streams and 53 million monthly Spotify listeners.

Nov. 21

• Americana Beer Co.: Je Rogers

• Evening Muse: e Spooklights; e Steel Crows

• Home Brew Taproom: Adam Daniels & Mikey Black

• Middle C Jazz: Satyr Black

• Neighborhood Theatre: Gaelic Storm

• Peddlers Paradise Bartique: Alainna

• Stooges Pub & Grub: Gump

Fiction

•  e Fillmore: Lovejoy

• The Rabbit Hole: The Local Honeys

•  e Trail House: Carolina Honey

•  e Underground: Goldlink

• Visulite: Faculty Lounge

Nov. 22

• Amos’ Southend: Bring Out Yer Dead

• Cork and Ale: Tim and Greg

• Dowd Center eatre: Los Lonely Boys

• Evening Muse: Young Mister; Bombargo

• Home Brew Taproom: Chance Howland

• Local Logic: Violent Gypsies

• Middle C Jazz: Soul Sacri ce

• Moochies Tavern: Unknown Artist Band

• Peddlers Paradise Bartique: Rayf

• Pineville Tavern: Dusk Till Dawn

• Stooges Pub & Grub: Wild

Canyon

•  e Trail House: Sweet Leaf

•  e Underground: Blind Guard-

ian Somewhere Far….

•  e Union Exchange: Traxx

• Two Buck Saloon: Coley Williams

• Visulite: Jeremy’s Ten

• Waxhaw Taphouse: 485

Nov. 23

• Evening Muse: Sam on Someday

• Middle C Jazz: Christian Anderson

• The Underground: Sanguisugabogg

Nov. 24

• Evening Muse: Open Mic

Nov. 25

•  e Underground: Ariel Pink

Nov. 26

• Middle C Jazz: Farber & Friends

• Peddlers Paradise Bartique: Open

Mic

• Stooges Pub & Grub: Action

Jaxxxon

•  e Trail House: 485

VENUES Charlotte

• Amos’ Southend: 1423 S. Tryon

St.

• Evening Muse: 3227 N. Davidson St.

• Middle C Jazz: 300 S. Brevard St.

• Neighborhood eatre: 511 E. 36th St.

•  e Fillmore: 820 Hamilton St.

•  e Rabbit Hole: 1801 Commonwealth Ave.

•  e Underground: 820 Hamilton St.

• Visulite: 1615 Elizabeth Ave.

Indian Trail

• e Trail House: 6751 Old Monroe Road

Mint Hill

• Stooges Pub & Grub: 13230 Albemarle Road

Monroe

• Americana Beer Co.: 222 N. Main St.

• Dowd Center Theatre: 120 S. Main St.

• Home Brew Taproom: 215 S. Main St.

• Local Logic: 128 S. Main St.

• Peddlers Paradise Bartique: 105 W. Franklin St.

•  e Union Exchange: 2022 New Town Road

Pineville

• Pineville Tavern: 314 N. Polk St.

• Two Buck Saloon: 329 Main St.

Stallings

• Moochies Tavern: 15054 Idlewild Road

Waxhaw

• Cork and Ale: 113 E. North Main St

• Waxhaw Taphouse: 203 N. Broome St.

Let’s stay safe as we gather to give thanks

By Mike Causey Contributor

anksgiving Day is right around the corner. It’s an exciting time to gather with family and friends. We o er thanks for our bounty and for each other.

It’s one of my favorite holidays. During the holiday, as our kitchens ll with activity, it’s important that we keep safety in mind as we celebrate.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, anksgiving is the peak day for home cooking res with more than three times the daily average for such incidents. Unattended cooking was by far the leading contributing factor in cooking res and re

deaths.

Cooking causes more than half, or 52%, of all reported home res and nearly two out of every ve (36%) home re injuries. It is a leading cause of home re deaths (16%).

On anksgiving Day alone, an estimated 1,446 home cooking res were reported to U.S. re departments in 2023, re ecting 388% of the daily average. Eighty percent of structure res occurring on anksgiving Day are due to cooking and account for 40% of the civilian injuries sustained in structure res occurring on anksgiving.

ese statistics serve a purpose: to remind us to take reasonable precautions to make sure our holiday is joyous. Here are a few tips from the National Fire Protection Association

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to help us stay safe:

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food.

• Stay in the home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.

• Keep children away from the stove. e stove will be hot and kids should stay at least three feet away.

• Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. e steam or a splash from vegetables, gravy or co ee could cause serious burns.

• Keep the oor clear so you don’t trip on kids, their toys, pocketbooks or bags.

• Keep knives out of reach of children.

• Be sure electric cords from an electric

knife, co ee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling o the counter within easy reach of a child.

• Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children.

• Don’t leave children alone in a room with a lit candle.

Our children are depending on the adults in the room to make their holiday safe. It’s a responsibility we should take seriously and joyously.

I hope you have a safe and happy anksgiving Day.

Mike Causey serves as insurance commissioner of North Carolina.

CMS achieves record participation, performance in AP exams

CHARLOTTE – Students in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools set records for participation and performance in Advanced Placement exams during the 2024-25 school year.

A record 11,289 CMS students took 21,799 AP exams, the highest in district history. More CMS students have been enrolling in AP courses since 2021.

“In the 2024-25 school year, over 11,000 CMS students participated in AP, a 2.7% increase from last year,” Deputy Superintendent Melissa Balknight said. “Together, they took almost 22,000 AP exams, our highest total in ve years, and achieved record results: 75% of exams scored a 3 or higher, a nine-point increase from 2024.”

Based on the 2025 performance, CMS students earned an estimated 48,849 potential college credits, which the district said translated to about $14.3 million in potential tuition savings.

Students also excelled compared to peers statewide with an enrollment in 38 AP courses, outperforming the North Carolina state average in 28 of the 38 AP courses.

Many CMS scholars also earned

distinguished recognitions for their individual accomplishments:

• 231 AP Capstone Diplomas awarded to students who earned scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar, AP Research and four additional AP exams of their choosing.

• 75 AP Seminar & Research Certi cates awarded to students who earned scores of 3 or higher in both AP Seminar and AP Research.

• 1,575 AP Scholars graduated with distinction with an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP exams taken and scores of 3 or higher on ve or more exams.

• 732 AP Scholars received honors recognition for students with an average score of at least 3.25 on all AP exams taken and scores of 3 or higher on four or more exams.

• 1,502 AP Scholars received recognition for scores of 3 or higher on three or more AP exams.

“At Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, our commitment is clear: every student in every school deserves access to excellence,” Balknight said. “ ese results show that when we align our vision, invest in our educators and believe in our students, achievement follows.”