THE REGIONAL INSIDE ▼ TV weatherman writes children's book PAGE 2A
A SPECIAL EDITION COVERING MATTHEWS, MINT HILL, WAXHAW, INDIAN TRAIL AND SOUTH CHARLOTTE
Friday, December 26, 2025 • Vol. 25 • No. 52
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Property taxes: We feel like we’re being taxed to death By David Beasley Contributor
attracts new residents with its availability of jobs and the low cost of living.” Between 2020 and 2022, there were supply chain issues and high material costs due to inflation which limited the supply of new housing. Also, low mortgage rates during the COVID-19 pandemic meant that many homeowners who had refinanced were reluctant to sell their homes, Knight said. Between early 2020 and early 2021, active home listings in North Carolina dropped by about 60%, driving up prices. “The growth of home prices has outpaced the growth of income,” Knight said. One factor that may have contributed to income not keeping up with home prices could be North Carolina’s changing
demographics, Knight explained. “A majority of the growth is concentrated among seniors,” she said. The increase in the number of senior citizens has been caused by the aging of the existing population as well as in-migration of retirees, Knight said. In addition to taxes, increased regulations on builders over the years have also raised the cost of housing, said Rep. Jeff Zenger, a Republican representing Forsyth County who is also a contractor. “We put more regulation on, that raises the cost and then that raises the assessment and that raises the tax and then we put more regulation on,” he said. “It just keeps going around and around. It’s absolutely insane.”
Museum highlights MLK’s legacy
BofA names Neighborhood Builders recipients
(The Center Square) – North Carolina legislators called for solutions to rising property taxes, describing them as a threat to both homeowners and renters during Cunningham a legislative hearing on Dec. 17.
The elderly in particular often struggle to pay their property taxes, State Rep. Carla Cunningham, a Democrat from Mecklenburg County, told fellow members of the House Select Committee of Property Tax
Reduction and Reform. If they lose their homes, the alternative for many seniors is often even more expensive assisted living homes, Cunningham said. “We feel like we’re being taxed to death,” Cunningham said. “I think it’s good that we are having the conversation and that we find the best way to move forward.” Senior citizens are a growing segment of North Carolina’s population, Allahna Knight, an economist with the legislature’s fiscal research division, told lawmakers Dec. 17. Between 2015 and 2024, North Carolina’s population increased by 10%, Knight said. “This population growth is largely driven by in-migration,” she said. “North Carolina
CHARLOTTE – Bank of America has named Prospera and Supportive Housing Communities as its 2025 Neighborhood Builders for their work to advance economic opportunity and address the region’s unhoused population.
with teamwork and quick thinking. The longtime Charlotte entrepreneurs have now claimed their prizes and set their out-of-office messages, as they kick off a year-long adventure around the world. Follow along on their journey at instagram.com/joey. and.scott/. “Over the next year, we plan to pursue our 'robe life' goals, traveling
Bank of America’s Neighborhood Builders program continues to be one of the nation’s largest philanthropic investments into nonprofit leadership development. Both Charlotte nonprofits are each awarded a $200,000 grant over two years, leadership training for the organization’s executive director and an emerging leader, and access to a national network of nonprofit peers. Since the program’s inception, 36 nonprofits have been selected as Neighborhood Builders in Charlotte, with the bank investing nearly $9 million in philanthropic capital into these nonprofits. “Our local nonprofits are crucial to addressing local challenges in Charlotte,” said Kieth Cockrell, president, Bank of America Charlotte. “Through flexible funding and comprehensive leadership training, the Neighborhood Builders program helps nonprofits address critical needs and promote economic opportunity for the individuals and families in our communities.” Prospera works to achieve community prosperity and create positive impacts on North Carolina’s economy through support for small businesses and entrepreneurship. This new grant funding will be used by Prospera to offer bilingual services free of charge to small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs, including training, individual business consulting services, and guidance related to capital and procurement readiness. “We are honored and grateful to be recognized as a 2025 Bank of America Neighborhood Builder, not just for the generous financial contribution but also the capacity building, leadership training and visibility that come with the award,” said Augusto Sanabria, Prospera president and CEO. “There are many nonprofit organizations doing great work in the region, and we are humbled to be one of two recipients this year. As we approach our 10th anniversary in Charlotte, we will leverage this incredible gift from Bank of America to enhance our organization, sustain our mission and increase our economic impact in North Carolina.” Supportive Housing Communities provides permanent, affordable housing
Story continues, see NETFLIX page 3A
Story continues, see BOFA page 3A
Levine Museum of the New South creates a space where people can learn and honor the past while connecting and building a stronger future. This year’s MLK Day programming reflects its mission. Photos courtesy of the museum
CHARLOTTE – Levine Museum of the New South highlights stories and conversations each January that help people connect Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy to the world we live in today.
This year, the museum will mark Martin Luther King Jr. Day with a month-long series of programs designed to bring people together through film, family experiences, conversation and, of course, history. At each event, the community is invited to reflect on the stories and teachings of Martin Luther King Jr. and those he inspired. “We approach MLK Day as a moment to slow down and really look at the threads
between past and present,” said Dr. Richard Cooper, president and CEO of the museum. “Dr. King’s work continues to shape the issues our communities face today, and we hope these programs help guests understand how those stories still inform and inspire our future.” Upcoming January events include: LEARNING FROM SELMA
6 p.m., Jan. 15 / Carolina Theatre, 230 N. Tryon St. Levine Museum will host a special screening and community discussion of “Selma,” Story continues, see MLK page 3A
Levine Museum of the New South tells the stories of the diverse people who have shaped and been shaped by this region through exhibits, dialogues, digital programs and celebrations.
Residents win Netflix game show, ‘What's in the Box?’ CHARLOTTE – Charlotte has another Netflix win to celebrate as Joey and Scott Linwell won the network’s latest game show, “What’s in the Box?.”
Joey and Scott Linwell met in Charlotte in 2003, and very quickly, their connection grew into a life partnership driven by creativity. They have designed and opened multiple businesses, renovated residential and commercial properties and developed two wellknown Charlotte gathering spaces. Photo courtesy of Netflix
Hosted by Neil Patrick Harris, the series puts contestants through fastpaced trivia and challenges to win life-changing prizes hidden inside mystery boxes. They ultimately secured the win by combining their life experiences
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Page 2A • The Weekly • December 26, 2025
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Primrose Schools nationwide donated 350,000 canned goods, contributing to nearly 2 million food items donated to local organizations since 2019.
Photos courtesy of Primrose Schools
CHARLOTTE – Preschoolers at six Primrose schools across Charlotte donated 5,125 canned goods to local organizations as part of the Caring and Giving Food Drive.
Children engaged in age-appropriate chores and used their earnings to buy canned goods and pantry staples for their neighbors. Primrose School locations in Austin Village, Huntersville, Lake Norman, Lake Wylie, South Charlotte and Fort Mill participated in the food drive. Donations went to Common Heart Food, Nourish Up Food Pantry, Feed NC, A Brighter Day Community Resources, Second Harvest Food Bank and Fort Mill Care Center Amy Jackson, chief early learning officer at Primrose Schools, said the Caring and Giving Food Drive shows how its Balanced Learning curriculum goes “beyond academics to nurture character and compassion.” “Through meaningful acts of service, children experience the joy of giving and see the difference they can make in their communities, especially at a time when so many families are facing heightened need,” Jackson said.
Larry Sprinkle writes a children’s book CHARLOTTE – The sky is the limit for Larry the Little Cloud, the protagonist of the new children’s book written by Charlotte-area weatherman Larry Sprinkle and published by Warren Publishing.
Sprinkle
Larry (the cloud version) loves to roam from city to country as he people watches from his spacious home in the sky. Although he likes being a fluffy, cotton-ball cloud, he sometimes feels a little envious of his storm cloud friends with their booming thunder and flashing lightning … until he witnesses the big impact storms can have down on land. Confidence and self-acceptance don’t always come easy, especially in childhood. “I had that struggle, not only as a kid, but even into adulthood,” Sprinkle said. “Using a simple cloud as an example, I wanted to show that one can mistakenly assume ‘big, loud and boisterous means you are more powerful and more confident.’” In Sprinkle’s story, Larry the cloud learns about negative consequences when a big storm develops and he witnesses the destruction big storm clouds can cause. Little Larry comes to embrace the cloud he already is. Sprinkle started his broadcasting career at just 14 years old and spent many years waking people up as a morning show personality. Later, he became a familiar face on television, reporting the weather. For years, Larry has visited schools across the Carolinas, talking to kids about clouds (his favorite being cumulous), storms and the joy of reading. Being in the weather business for many years helped influence Sprinkle’s choice to use the cloud analogy. On the air, he and his crew really like to mention “fair weather clouds,” which, in Sprinkle’s words, “certainly makes for a happier day!” Sprinkle’s story reminds readers about the importance of self-acceptance, confidence and making choices that steer us away from negativity and staying true to oneself, even when skies get stormy. “Larry the Little Cloud” can be ordered on Amazon, BarnesandNoble.com, warrenpublishing.net, bookshop.org, and asked for wherever books are sold.
Giving back is built into the Primrose Balanced Learning curriculum, teaching children the value of empathy, generosity and community responsibility year-round.
Union County Fire Marshal's Office receives pat on back MONROE – The Union County Fire Marshal's Office has been named Agency of the Year by Safe Kids Union County for its efforts in community fire safety, prevention and education.
The Fire Marshal's Office was nominated for its exceptional efforts to engage and protect some of the community's most vulnerable populations. “Being recognized as Agency of the Year is an honor for our entire team,” Fire Marshal Jon Williams said. “Our mission is to protect lives through education, prevention and strong partnerships, and this award reflects the dedication of everyone
we work with to keep Union County safe.” The office partnered this year with the Union County Library to host children's fire-safety book readings and deliver senior-focused cooking and fire-safety presentations. The two initiatives are designed to reach age groups at higher risk of fire-related injury. The office worked with the county’s communications team to create social media content and educational videos to expand public awareness. A standout project was a video highlighting the importance of school fire inspections and featuring an interview with a survivor of the tragic Our Lady of Lourdes
school fire. "Our Fire Marshal's Office continues to elevate community safety," said Deputy County Manager Patrick Niland. "I'm excited to see their hard work, dedication and innovative outreach receive well-deserved recognition." Safe Kids Union County, led by Atrium Health Union, provides programs and services that help parents and caregivers prevent childhood injuries. Through coordinated efforts, including car-seat checks, safety workshops and sports clinics, the coalition works to keep children safe and supported.
Police say suspects stole used cooking oil MONROE – A proactive traffic stop by a Monroe Police Department patrol officer led to the disruption of an unusual but increasingly common Williams theft scheme targeting local businesses.
A patrol officer stopped a van displaying a fictitious license plate at 3 p.m. Dec. 18. During the investigation, the officer discovered a substantial amount of used cooking oil inside the vehicle.
Miller
Other patrol officers checked surrounding areas and located a grease container at Hathaway’s Fried Chicken, 1310 W. Roosevelt Blvd., where a lock had been cut and the container had been tam-
pered with. Through follow-up investigation, officers were able to link the occupants of the van to two separate locations in Monroe where used grease waste had been stolen. As a result, Dante Miller, 30, of
Concord, and Marc Williams, 36, of New York, were arrested and charged with possession of burglar’s tools, felony larceny, injury to personal property and conspiracy to commit a felony. While the theft of used cooking oil may sound unusual, police said it has become an increasingly lucrative crime in recent years due to the oil’s value as a key ingredient in biodiesel production. Police said these crimes are far from harmless and create significant financial losses and operational disruptions for the businesses targeted.
In Charlotte, $3.4M to change perception of public transit By Alan Wooten Contributor
(The Center Square) – Charlotte taxpayers are spending a minimum of $3.4 million and possibly more for a Washington public relations firm’s aim of “enhancing the public’s perception and use of public transit in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg area.” Nine Democrats and two Republicans on the City Council delivered a unanimous vote to climax the Sept. 11 issuance of request for proposals. That was six days after the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department released video footage of the Aug. 22 stabbing death of Iryna Zarutska on a light-rail train, a video that went viral and led to foundational change through new state law named for the victim. The vote comes four days after another stabbing on a Charlotte light-rail train. The victim was critically injured, and federal
authorities say the suspect charged with first-degree murder is illegally in America. The Charlotte Area Transit System is paying the Sherry Matthews Group to “supplement CATS’s internal resources by providing specialized expertise in areas such as general marketing and advertising, branding, public relations, public affairs, digital communications, community engagement, media planning, event planning and crisis communications.” City Council correspondence says the deal is three one-year terms, with renewals a time for potential price adjustments “based on legitimate and justified increases in the cost of doing business.” Following the death of Zarutska, firstterm Republican state Auditor Dave Boliek took a different route, opening an investigation into safety and spending. His staff's preliminary audit found a 55% reduction in armed security staff, 211% increase in contract value, and ties
to diversity, equity and inclusion in an analysis released Sept. 30. Armed security personnel for CATS were between 68 and 88 in a 2018 contract with G4S Secure Solutions. September’s detail was 39. PSS has the contract today. The pact was for $5.9 million in 2022 and is $18.4 million this year. When the audit was released, the contract allowed up to 219 personnel. That means 82.1% of the available jobs were vacant in an agreement allowing armed guards on all 48 train cars at once. The audit said CATS had ridership of 14.9 million in fiscal year 2024 in a 675-square-mile service area for the nation’s 14th largest city with population of about 925,000. There are 48 train cars in two rail services; more than 330 buses on 67 routes and more than 3,000 stops; and four transit centers.
The Weekly • December 26, 2025 • Page 3A
Levine Museum explores the world today through the lens of history to deepen understanding, ignite productive dialogue and inspire civic engagement. Photos courtesy of the museum MLK from 1A
the film chronicling the 1965 Selma-to-Montgomery marches and King’s leadership during one of the Civil Rights Movement's defining chapters. The event opens with a brief reception ahead of the two-hour film
screening. After, attendees will receive a discussion guide crafted to help extend the conversation beyond the theatre. Tickets cost $28 (Tier 1), $18 (Tier 2), $13 (Tier 3) MLK FAMILY DAY 2026
10 a.m.-1 p.m., Jan. 19 / One Independence Center,
BOFA from 1A
and wraparound services to people experiencing chronic homelessness in Charlotte. This grant funding will strengthen the nonprofit’s capacity to provide supportive housing at McCreesh Place and in privately-owned rentals throughout Charlotte. Each household is supported by a case manager, has access to life skills training, and is connected to essential services, including healthcare, childcare, transportation and employment assistance. “Our neighbors deserve the stability and dignity that come with having a safe place to call home,” said Laura Caldwell, CEO of Supportive Housing Communities. “This funding strengthens our ability to stand alongside families and individuals who have faced the toughest circumstances and help them rebuild their lives. We are grateful for partners who believe in this work and who share our commitment to making homelessness rare, brief, and nonrecurring in Charlotte.” NETFLIX from 1A
intentionally, immersing in culture through fashion and ritual, and embracing the world at a pace that prioritizes true connection,” Joey Linwell said. Over the next several months, they will enjoy what was inside their many prize boxes: • A trip to Paris with a $25,000 shopping spree. • Sailing on a luxury yacht with $25,000 worth of brand new designer luggage. • A trip to Finland to stay at the Treehouse Resort to watch the Northern Lights, with a reindeer and dog sled ride experience. • VIP passes to Coachella and Bonnaroo, plus a $25,000 Ticketmaster credit to use as they please. • 2026 PSLs to cheer on their favorite team, the Carolina Panthers. Joey and Scott also received $300,000 in Bitcoin, giving them the flexibility and cushion to take significant time off to travel. “The show has been truly life-changing for so many reasons, from the friends we met to the incredible prizes that are allowing us to lean hard into our passions,” said Scott Linwell. “We’re endlessly thankful to Netflix for turning our dreams into reality, continuing to uplift Charlotte, and setting us up for a journey we’re excited to share with everyone.”
101 N. Tryon St. Families are invited to a free, hands-on celebration honoring the life and legacy of Dr. King. The morning begins with story times at 10 a.m., 11:15 a.m. and noon. Each is centered on King’s message of hope, courage and community. Between performances and readings,
children can explore arts and craft activities inspired by his work and mission. WE PAVED THE WAY
6:30-8 p.m., Jan. 29 / 915 Pearl Park Way The museum will host s c h o l a r Je n n i f e r D i x on-McKnight for a discussion of her new book,
“We Paved the Way: Black Women and the Charleston Hospital Workers’ Campaign.” The book recognizes the Black women who led the 1969 Charleston Hospital Strike – a defining moment for civil rights and labor rights in the South. Dixon-McKnight will share insights into her research,
the women who shaped the movement, and the lessons their leadership offers today. Following the conversation, attendees will have the opportunity for Q&A and a book signing. Tickets cost $15 On the web: museumofthenewsouth.org
Meaningful Medicine expands access, economic mobility CHARLOTTE – Three years ago, Bank of America provided a $10 million, five-year grant to support Atrium Health Foundation’s Giving Hope Campaign.
The funding established the Meaningful Medicine program to improve access to health and mental care and bridge workforce development needs in nursing and health-related fields. “Meaningful Medicine is truly driving Atrium Health’s mission home,” said Shannon Duval, chief philanthropy officer for Advocate Health. “It’s ensuring people in the communities we serve have access to care, and it offers opportunities and training to those who wish to pursue a health care career. The Meaningful Medicine program is
driving future economic mobility and supporting Charlotte families.” The program includes six initiatives: school-based virtual care and therapy, community virtual primary care, workforce development, social health screening and suicide prevention training. Since launching the program, big wins include: • School-Based Virtual Care at 115 Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools that reached 10,000+ patients (students and teachers) with more than 13,000 visits on campus, during school hours, with a return to classroom rate of 61%. • School-Based Virtual Therapy at 32 CMS schools, serving the behavioral health and mental wellness needs of 900 students, with more than 11,000 visits.
• Nearly 300 CMS high school students participated in career and workforce development programs. Atrium Health said the program’s approach helps keep students and staff healthy and in school, reduces absenteeism, and provides supportive behavioral health services as well as career pathways for high school students. “Meaningful Medicine is a game changer in our schools,” CMS Superintendent Crystal Hill said. “It is a valued and unique virtual resource addressing the direct needs of our families and employees. The career pathway programs are providing the critical training needed for students to become the next generation of medical professionals.” Other par tners include
Mecklenburg County Public Health, Central Piedmont Community College, Latin American Coalition, Inlivian Housing and the YMCA of Greater Charlotte. “The Meaningful Medicine program demonstrates how collaboration can transform access to health and wellness needs, especially in underserved communities and schools,” said Kieth Cockrell, president of Bank of America Charlotte. “This initiative has improved educational impacts and community health outcomes. It has accelerated economic opportunities through workforce development programs where local students can achieve their career goals post-graduation.” On the web: atriumhealthfoundation.org/meaningfulmedicine
Poll: Lawmakers get most of the blame for poor-performing schools By Alan Wooten Contributorr
(The Center Square) – North Carolinians place the most accountability for K-12 education on state lawmakers, particularly regarding funding, an Elon University Poll released Dec. 17 says. The 800 adults, some with children in the public school systems and some without, also gave evidence in responses of a tremendous deficit in knowledge about the public school system. The poll, with +/- 4.24% margin of error, was conducted in conjunction with YouGov and in a survey design partnership with the university’s Dr. Jo Watts Williams School of Education. “We found clear evidence that North Carolinians want to see more effective governance of K-12 schools,” said Jason Husser, director of the Elon University Poll. “A large majority thought state government bears some of the blame when schools underperform.”
Teachers (57%) were least to blame for poor-performing schools and state government (77%), local school boards (77%), principals (67%) and parents (64%) got more. Ninety-four percent of respondents said poverty, neighborhood safety and family stability were major factors in school underperformance. For the most common factors of school underperformance, respondents said insufficient funding and resources (60%) ahead of lack of parental involvement (52%), weak school management (38%), student challenges outside of school (30%), poorly prepared teachers (26%), political conflict among leaders (24%), technological distractions (22%) or broader community or crime problems (18%). "Sixty percent identified the real problem: insufficient funding,” said Dr. Ann Bullock, dean of the Watts Williams School of Education. “Schools need to be funded at a level to meet the needs of the students in each community. Education needs to be a priority for
change to happen." Respondents’ knowledge of public education was not good. The average guess by respondents for North Carolina teacher pay annually was $42,257. Instead, it is $58,292 the university said, citing the National Education Association annual report. That’s a number higher than the median household income for 47 of 100 counties, according to the latest report from the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners. The national average for teachers, according to the NEA, is $72,030. Correspondingly, 71% of respondents said public school teachers are paid too little and only 45% said they would encourage a child or close family member to pursue a job as a K-12 teacher. The poll found 60% did not know charter schools are public schools in North Carolina. In fact, 34% said they were private schools. North Carolina has universal school choice. Asked questions about the state’s Opportunity
Scholarships, available to any family regardless of income, 36% were unsure if testing and reporting requirements for public schools were the same for charters and privates that are recipients of the voucher funds. Charters, in general, mirror traditional public schools in both aspects. Private schools have partial testing rules and less accountability, a release from Elon said. The poll results said 28% were unsure how public schools are funded, and 52% knew school board members are either elected or appointed. The state superintendent’s position is elected, though 59% of respondents were not sure, and 31% were unsure how the office was filled. Taxpayers provide more money for education than any other part of the state budget. For fiscal year 2024-25, the figure was $17.9 billion. The state has about 1.5 million schoolchildren and 90,000 public school educators.
Page 4A • The Weekly • December 26, 2025
Charlotte preparing businesses for contract opportunities CHARLOTTE – The City of Charlotte Economic Development Department has introduced the Small Business Readiness Program as part of the new Skilled to Build initiative. The program will help prepare small businesses for opportunities arising from voter-approved mobility, transportation and infrastructure investments.
The first phase of the program launched Dec. 8, and organizations are invited to apply. Under this program, the Small Business Readiness Fund will help local small businesses gain the skills, technical support and resources they need to compete for upcoming
city-led mobility and infrastructure contracts. “Thanks to the voter-approved one-cent sales tax referendum, billions will be invested over the next 30 years to improve public transportation and roadway infrastructure across Charlotte and Mecklenburg County,” Deputy City Manager Alyson Craig said. “The Small Business Readiness Fund offers a major opportunity for small businesses in the greater Charlotte area. By building capacity early, the city is helping local firms prepare to compete for the substantial opportunities this investment will create.” The Small Business Readiness Program will be delivered in three phases:
• Curriculum Development (RFP): Creating a customized training curriculum to prepare small businesses for contracting opportunities. • Program Delivery (Grants): Multiple grants will be provided for organizations to deliver the program, providing training to strengthen business capacity. • Ongoing Technical Assistance (Grants): Multiple grants will be provided for organizations to deliver technical assistance and tools to support businesses in their success. Charlotte Economic Development will work with its resource partners to deliver the programs and assistance.
The city is seeking proposals from experienced organizations and businesses in small business development, training and technical support to develop curriculum for the initiative. Proposals for this phase must be submitted by 10 a.m. on Jan. 15, 2026. The tax approved by voters in November is estimated to generate $19.4 billion over the next 30 years to enhance public transportation and roadway infrastructure across Mecklenburg County. Contact Anika Ellis, senior economic development specialist, at 704-651-6759 or anika.ellis@charlottenc.gov for more information.
24 organizations oppose I-77 South Express Lanes Editor’s Note: Twenty-four organizations sent a joint letter to Daniel Johnson, secretary of North Carolina Department of Transportation, regarding the I-77 South Express Lanes project. Dear Secretary Johnson: We submit these comments on behalf of the 24 undersigned organizations, which collectively represent thousands of residents who live in and around the project corridor and would be directly harmed if this project proceeds, as well as thousands more across Charlotte, Mecklenburg County and the region. Speaking with one voice, all signatories oppose this project, and we respectfully ask that you stand with our communities. Our reasons for opposition, along with our requests of you, are outlined below. What NCDOT Is Proposing
NCDOT has proposed widening approximately 11 miles of I-77 South from the South Carolina line to I-277/NC 16 by adding two new tolled express lanes in each direction, rebuilding interchanges, and, in some segments, potentially stacking an elevated roadway above the existing interstate. NCDOT intends to utilize a public-private partnership, similar to the one used for the I-77 North project. A private company would operate the lanes and set dynamic prices to keep them flowing, which is exactly what has led to very high, unaffordable tolls for low to moderate-income residents on I-77 North. Why This Repeats and Deepens Past Harms
The highway cut a swath through nearly every one of Charlotte’s historically Black communities along its length – starting in the Historic West End with Biddleville, Oaklawn Park, McCrorey Heights, Dalebrook, and parts of Wesley Heights and Seversville, then continuing south to Wilmore and into the West Boulevard and South Tryon corridors that served Black Charlotteans pushed out of other parts of the city. 77 South brushes or bisects Black and historically Black communities along the West Boulevard and South Tryon corridors – Reid Park / Arbor Glen, Revolution Park, Clanton Park / Irwin Creek, and the West Boulevard villages. These areas sit immediately west of I-77 or depend on greenways, parks and streets that would be affected by widening or an elevated option. Equity and Access
This project would create premium, highpriced lanes for those who can afford them, while everyone else remains in the general-purpose lanes, which NCDOT’s own analysis shows will continue to be congested over time. That is the definition of a two-tier system. We have already seen on I-77 North that dynamic pricing can push tolls to levels that are out of reach for many working families. Building more lanes that only some people can use is not transportation equity. Environmental and Community Impacts
NCDOT’s October 2024 project materials show 13 interchanges, four grade separations – including a greenway – and multiple retaining walls within this 11-mile stretch. Each of those is a potential impact point to parks, cemeteries, industrial-legacy sites, and housing. It will also take part of Frazier Park in Third Ward and would make a planned extension of the Irwin Creek Greenway through McCrorey Heights effectively impossible, permanently barring neighborhood access to the beautiful, peaceful Irwin Creek corridor that residents have already been cut off from for decades by the existing I-77. The construction of I-77 through
Charlotte’s Black neighborhoods stands as one of the most harmful examples of environmental injustice in the city’s and state’s history – and rather than working to repair that injustice, this project would deepen it even further. Tailpipe emissions from vehicles are the single largest source of dangerous air pollution in Mecklenburg County. Residents in the Historic West End have already documented elevated exposures using community monitors and EPA EJScreen, precisely because of the concentration of highways, freight, and industrial uses around them. EPA EJScreen and the 2024 Charlotte MSA Priority Climate Action Plan flag census tracts along this corridor as disadvantaged because they face both higher pollution and higher vulnerability. Adding more lanes and moving traffic faster through this tight corridor will increase traffic-related pollutants (NO₂, PM₂.₅, diesel exhaust) next to homes, parks, schools, and churches. Charlotte’s Strategic Energy Action Plan (SEAP⁺) commits the city to cutting community-wide greenhouse-gas emissions 72 percent by 2035 and reaching net-zero by 2050. Expanding this freeway pushes us further from those goals by locking in more driving and more emissions in the very place we are trying to reconnect. Physical and Cultural Destruction
Beyond the emissions: Widening this freeway with four more lanes means pushing more ugly, intrusive concrete farther into already-burdened neighborhoods – destroying existing houses, tree canopies, and commercial buildings, and once again lowering property values and quality of life, just as the existing freeway did. Perhaps the most disrespectful impact of all is on Pinewood Cemetery. Pinewood was established in 1853 as the burial ground for Black Charlotteans, located directly beside but separated from Elmwood Cemetery by a fence, where white residents were buried. When the interstate was first built, it was routed through Pinewood, not Elmwood, splitting the Black cemetery into multiple pieces and requiring the removal or relocation of graves of early Black residents. The current proposal would add insult to injury by pushing even more concrete highway infrastructure deeper into this sacred site, rather than repairing the harm that has already been done.
It Won’t Fix Congestion
Highway widening has been studied for decades, and the results are consistent everywhere: it does not reduce congestion for long. When new lanes are added, they may appear to relieve traffic at first, but within a few years, they fill right back up – often to worse levels than before. This occurs due to a well-documented phenomenon known as “induced demand.” In simple terms, when you make driving easier or faster, people drive more. More people take trips they previously avoided, move farther from work or school because travel feels faster, or choose to drive instead of taking the bus, carpooling, or biking. Over time, all those extra miles driven erase the temporary congestion relief the new lanes created. Extensive research confirms this pattern. A University of California, Davis study analyzing 30 years of highway data found that a 10 percent increase in lane miles leads to roughly a 10 percent increase in vehicle miles traveled within just a few years, effectively erasing any congestion benefits. The Texas A&M Transportation Institute found that metro regions investing most heavily in highway expansion did not
experience better congestion outcomes than those that invested less. The Congressional Research Service and Federal Highway Administration likewise conclude that adding lanes on congested urban freeways “often results in only short-term improvements before congestion returns.” Locally, NCDOT’s ongoing project to widen I-485 from I-77 to U.S. 74 in South Charlotte provides a cautionary example. The project began in 2019 and is adding one tolled express lane in each direction, as well as a third general-purpose lane in each direction between Rea Road and Providence Road. The new general-purpose lanes opened in late 2021, and the tolled express lanes are still under construction, with an expected opening in winter 2025, following multiple delays. Since the additional lanes opened, traffic volumes in that corridor have already increased, reinforcing what decades of research have shown nationwide: when driving becomes easier or faster, more people drive until congestion returns. So while NCDOT’s I-77 South project may promise smoother travel in the first years after completion, the long-term result will almost certainly be more cars, more congestion, and higher costs – not lasting relief. Those who can afford the tolled express lanes will continue to move freely, while everyone else will be stuck in even heavier traffic on the “free” lanes. Charlotte deserves better than another billion-dollar experiment that’s already failed here and in cities across the country. A Better Path
The only effective way to move more people in this corridor is to invest in reliable, frequent transit – dedicated bus lanes on I-77, buses that come at least every 15 minutes on primary roads parallel to I-77, safe and accessible bus stops, and coordinated land use to shorten trips. NCDOT’s current plan offers no public transit alternative, requiring local residents to fund improvements to transit and active transportation themselves – with no financial support from the state.
Our Request
For all of these reasons – historic and racial injustice, environmental and public-health burdens, financial risk, and the creation of “lanes for the affluent” – we are asking Charlotte City Council, the Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners, and the members of the CRTPO board to: 1. Unequivocally oppose this project and any plan to widen I-77 South. There is no adjustment, mitigation, or design alternative that can justify further cutting through these communities. Rather than deepening the wounds of the past, Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and NCDOT must lead in healing them. 2. Champion a new vision for restoration and reconnection. Around the nation, cities are taking bold steps to repair the injustices caused by mid-century highway construction. Projects like ReConnect Rondo in St. Paul, which is building a land bridge over I-94 to restore a Black community erased by freeway construction; the Albina Vision Trust in Portland, which is capping I-5 to reclaim land for housing and cultural space in the historic Albina neighborhood; and the Cap and Stitch initiative over I-35 in Austin and the Central 70 project in Denver, which are creating green decks and community plazas over freeways, all point to what justice-driven leadership looks like today. We urge you to work with us to initiate similar reconnection and restorative projects here in Charlotte, not further division. The City of Charlotte has already recognized
through its own “Reconnecting the West End” initiative that highway construction, specifically I-77, demolished minority neighborhoods such as Brooklyn Village and displaced families into the West End, only for those neighborhoods to be destroyed again by I-77 and I-277 interchanges. It is time for the city, the county, the state, and the federal government – whose past decisions inflicted this generational harm – to lead the way in re-establishing the connections that were torn apart by I-77. That is what justice requires. It is the opposite of what this proposed project would do. We look forward to your response. Respectfully, Charlotte City Council Member Joi Mayo, board chair, Transforming Nations Ford Sean Langley, president, McCrorey Heights Neighborhood Association Al Austin, president, Historic Third Ward Neighborhood Association Rickey Hall, president, West Boulevard Neighborhood Coalition Jerod Brown, president, Biddleville-Smallwood Community Organization LaDonte Lee, president, Concerned Citizens of Washington Heights Shannon Hughes, president, Five Points Collaborative and Wesley Heights Neighborhood Association Ismaail Qaiyim, core member, Charlotte Housing Justice Coalition Rev. Greg Jarrell, senior campaign organizer, The Redress Movement Jennifer Wilson, president, Seversville Neighborhood Organization Virginia Keogh, president, Southwest Area Neighborhood Coalition Javier Lopez, president, Steele Creek Residents Association Tiffany Fant, executive director, Sol Nation Mary Foxx Johnson, president, Dalebrook Neighborhood Association Trilby Meeks, president, Lincoln Heights Neighborhood Association Ron Ross, president, The Northwood Estates Neighborhood Association Eleanor Ervin, president, Oaklawn Park Neighborhood Association Shamaiye Haynes, president, Greater Enderly Park Neighborhood Association Rev. Jennifer Helms Jarrell, co-director, QC Family Tree June Blotnick and former Charlotte Mayor Jennifer Roberts, co-founders, Charlotte Mecklenburg Climate Leaders Jeff Robinson, executive director, Clean Aire NC Megan Kimball, senior attorney, Southern Environmental Law Center (SELC) Clayton Sealey, owner/chief creative officer, CLT Development LLC Shannon Binns, founder + executive director, Sustain Charlotte Cc: Tony Lathrop, Board of Transportation, chair Stephen Rosenburgh, Board of Transportation Chris Peoples, NCDOT Patrick Norman, NCDOT Brett Kanipe, NCDOT Felix Obregon, NCDOT Julie White, NCDOT Ebony Pittman, NCDOT Tonya Smith, NCDOT Robert Cook, CRTPO Neil Burke, CRTPO Lisa Qualls, CRTPO Board, Chair Brad Richardson, CRTPO Board, vice chair Charlotte City Council Mecklenburg County Commission
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REGIONAL The Weekly • December 26, 2025 • Page 1B
Turkey Bacon and Spinach Quiche with Sweet Potato Crust Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association with support from Eggland’s Best Servings: 5
FAMILY FEATURES
W
hen planning meals, particularly breakfasts, there are a few critical factors many families consider: taste, simplicity and nutrition. Eating healthier doesn’t have to be complicated or out of reach. With the right inspiration, healthy food can be delicious, nutritious and convenient. By choosing ingredients like eggs, which are easy to use and versatile, you can make healthy living fit into your life at the breakfast table as part of a balanced diet. For example, these egg-inspired recipes are part of the American Heart Association’s Healthy for Good Eat Smart initiative, nationally supported by Eggland’s Best.
In addition to the social and emotional benefits of dining together, shared family meals can help promote healthier choices at the table. Backed by expert nutrition guidance, recipes such as Turkey Bacon and Spinach Quiche with Sweet Potato Crust are wholesome, flavorful and fast, perfect for busy weekdays or anytime you need a nutritious boost. The sweet potato crust offers a better-for-you twist on ready-made or traditional crusts made with butter, and it can be served with slices of honeydew or berries for an added touch of sweetness. For a protein-rich dish any day of the week, Broccoli and Cheese Egg White Scramble on Whole-Wheat English Muffins can help you solve the morning rush. Or for a true timesaver, these Egg “Muffin” Cups with Turkey Sausage and
Mushrooms can be made over the weekend and frozen or refrigerated for quick, go-to meals throughout the week. Remember, healthy eating isn’t just about one food – it’s about a combination of wholesome ingredients to make wellrounded meals. For example, eggs can be included as part of a heart-healthy diet that emphasizes vegetables, fruits, beans, nuts and seeds, whole grains, lean protein and fish, according to the American Heart Association. Eating eggs alongside foods high in saturated fat – like bacon – is different than eggs eaten with steamed veggies, whole grains or a side of fruit. To find more healthy eating tips and recipes that help you eat smart, move more and live healthier, visit Heart.org.
Nonstick cooking spray 1 medium sweet potato, peeled 1 teaspoon canola or corn oil 1 medium yellow onion, diced 6 slices uncured, nitrate-free turkey bacon, thinly sliced 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed 3/4 teaspoon dried dillweed, crumbled 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper 4 large egg whites 2 large eggs 1/4 cup fat-free milk 1 1/2 tablespoons fat-free feta cheese Preheat oven to 400 F. Lightly spray 9-inch pie pan with nonstick cooking spray. In medium bowl, using box grater, grate sweet potato. Measure out 2 cups. Gently press sweet potato on bottom and up sides of pan, forming crust. Sweet potato will be loose but will hold together once cooked. Bake 20 minutes, or until crust is cooked. Remove from oven. Let stand to cool. Reduce oven temperature to 350 F. In medium skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat, swirling to coat bottom. Cook onion 6 minutes, or until almost translucent, stirring frequently. Add turkey bacon. Cook 3-4 minutes, or until onion and bacon begin to brown, stirring frequently. Add spinach, dillweed, salt and pepper. Cook 1-2 minutes, or until water from spinach is released. Remove from heat. Transfer mixture into sweet potato crust. In medium bowl, whisk egg whites, eggs and milk. Pour over mixture in crust. Sprinkle feta over top. Bake 35-40 minutes, or until knife inserted into center comes out clean. Transfer to cooling rack. Let cool 10 minutes before cutting into wedges.
Broccoli and Cheese Egg White Scramble on Whole-Wheat English Muffins Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association with support from Eggland’s Best Servings: 4 Nonstick cooking spray 1 1/2 cups finely chopped fresh or frozen broccoli florets, thawed if frozen 1/4 cup water 8 extra-large egg whites 1/2 cup fat-free milk 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper 1/4 cup shredded fat-free cheddar cheese 2 whole-wheat, low-sodium English muffins Lightly spray large skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Heat over medium-high heat. Cook broccoli and water 4-5 minutes, or until broccoli is tender. Remove from heat. Transfer broccoli to dish. Using paper towels, wipe skillet clean. In large bowl, whisk egg whites, milk and pepper until combined. Lightly spray skillet with cooking spray. Heat over medium-high heat. Pour in egg white mixture. Cook 2-3 minutes, or until almost firm, stirring constantly with spatula. Stir in broccoli and cheddar cheese. Remove from heat. Just before serving, split and toast English muffins. Transfer to plates. Spoon egg mixture onto muffins.
Egg “Muffin” Cups with Turkey Sausage and Mushrooms Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association with support from Eggland’s Best Servings: 6 Nonstick cooking spray 1/2 tablespoon canola or corn oil 1 yellow onion, finely chopped 1 package (8 ounces) sliced white mushrooms
1 package (6.4 ounces) frozen, cooked, nitrate-free turkey sausage links, thawed 7 large eggs 1/4 cup fat-free milk 1/4 teaspoon pepper 1 cup shredded fat-free cheddar cheese Preheat oven to 350 F. Lightly spray 12-cup muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray. In medium nonstick pan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Cook onions
and mushrooms 10 minutes, or until soft, stirring occasionally. Warm turkey sausage according to package directions. Chop turkey into bite-size pieces. Stir into onion mixture until well blended. Spoon into muffin cups. In small bowl, whisk eggs, milk and pepper. Pour egg mixture into muffin cups. Top with cheddar cheese. Bake 25 minutes, or until eggs are set. Remove from oven. Let cool slightly. To easily remove muffins from pan, run knife around edges of each muffin.
DINING SCORES Health departments in Mecklenburg and Union counties inspected these establishments from Dec. 11 to 17: Charlotte (28209) • Chick-fil-A, 3015 South Blvd. – 100 • Chick-fil-A, 1540 E. Woodlawn Road – 98.5 • Five Guys Burgers and Fries, 2810 South Blvd. – 99 • Harris Teeter (meat/seafood), 4101 Park Road – 98.5 • Jason’s Deli, 1600 E. Woodlawn Road – 96 Charlotte (28210) • Duckworth’s Grill & Taphouse, 4625 Piedmont Row Drive – 96.5 • P.F. Chang’s China Bistro, 6809 Phillips Place Court – 96.5 • Park Place Restaurant, 10517 Park Road – 95.5 • Rusty’s Deli, 8512 Park Road – 95.5 • Salsarita’s Fresh Cantina, 8400 Park Road – 96.5 • Showmars, 9925 Park Cedar Drive – 95.5
• Tortilleria y Antojitos Iveth (food stand), 1417 Archdale Drive – 91.5 Charlotte (28211) • Food Lion (deli), 931 N. Wendover Road – 98 • Food Lion (market), 931 N. Wendover Road – 99 • Kaycee’s Kitchen (food stand), 3500 Latrobe Drive – 98 • Little Mama’s Italian Kitchen, 4521 Sharon Road – 97 • Mezeh Mediterranean Grill, 4920 Old Sardis Road – 87 • Panera Bread, 306 S. Sharon Amity Road – 95 • The Cheesecake Factory, 4400 Sharon Road – 91 • The Fresh Market (deli), 4207 Providence Road – 99 • The Fresh Market (meat/seafood), 4207 Providence Road – 98 Charlotte (28226) • Chipotle Mexican Grill, 7724 Pineville-Matthews Road – 98.5
• Harris Teeter (deli), 3333 Pineville-Matthews Road – 96 • Mr. Tokyo Japanese Restaurant, 8334 Pineville-Matthews Road – 96 • Pete’s Red Hots (push cart), 5721 Carmel Road – 100 • The Fresh Market (market), 7625 Pineville-Matthews Road – 95.5 • Wingstop, 334 Pineville-Matthews Road – 99 Charlotte (28270) • Harris Teeter (market/seafood), 1621 Sardis Road N. – 98.5 • Hungry Howie’s Flavor Factory (mobile food unit), 2861 Camfield St. – 100 Charlotte (28277) • Finale Pizza, 15025 Lancaster Hwy. – 99.5 • Hyatt House, 9930 Sandy Rock Place – 88.5 • Lee’s Hoagie House, 15025 Lancaster Hwy. – 99.5 • Nothing But Noodles, 7930 Rea Road – 97.5
• Panera Bread, 4835 Ballantyne Village Way – 98.5 • Penn Station East Coast Subs, 9805 Sandy Rock Place – 96 • Poke Cafe, 11318 N. Community House Road – 95.5 • Switchin’ Kitchens (food stand), 8025 Ardrey Kell Road – 98 • Target (Starbucks), 9870 Rea Road – 99.5 • The Ryal at Ballantyne Resort, 10000 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy. – 98.5 Indian Trail • Bagelgram NC, 7878 Idlewild Road – 100 • Sabor Latin Street Grill, 14039 E. Independence Blvd. – 94 Matthews • Bojangles, 1137 E. Independence Blvd. – 84.5 • Five Guys, 2304 Matthews Township Pkwy. – 99 Story continues, see DINING SCORES page 2B
Page 2B • The Weekly • December 26, 2025
LIVE MUSIC
TOTO, Christopher Cross to heat up summer CHARLOTTE – TOTO, Christopher Cross and The Romantics will tour North America in summer 2026, with stops at PNC Music Pavilion in Charlotte on July 28 and Coastal Credit Union Music Park in Raleigh on July 29.
Tickets went on sale Dec. 12 at totoofficial.com/events. The tour follows a banner year for TOTO, which drew more than 500,000 fans at performances and surpassed one billion annual streams. Led by Steve Lukather and Joseph Williams, TOTO is known for hits like “Africa,” “Hold the Line” and “Rosanna.” Special guest Christopher Cross joins the lineup. He has toured extensively with TOTO and has earned five Grammys (“Sailing”), an Oscar and more than 12 million album sales. The Romantics, best known for
hits like “What I Like About You” and “Talking in Your Sleep,” will also perform. Dec. 26
• Great Wagon Road Distilling: Dustin Yager • Middle C Jazz: House of Funk • Moochies Tavern: Save July • Shep’s Bar & Grill: Jaxx & Jacks • Southern Range Brewing: Kris Atom • Stooges Pub & Grub: Stratosphere • The Milestone: Sidequest Dec. 27
• Amos’ Southend: Harvey Street and the Weekend Friend • Local Logic: Rick Scaffe • Middle C Jazz: Gerald Veasley & Karen Briggs Jazz Fusion Duo • Moochies Tavern: Gump Fiction • Peddler’s Paradise Bartique:
Dual Drive • Stooges Pub & Grub: Soakin’ Wet • The Fillmore: Congress the Band • The Milestone: Pig Mountain, B-Villainous, Zeus and Hidden Barrows Dec. 28
• Moochies Tavern: Save July • The Milestone: Ape Vermin • The Underground: Hardwired
Dec. 29
• Evening Muse: Open Mic
Dec. 30
• The Milestone: Kenmujo, Septix, Shawn Garlic, Mercury Dimes, Vann Huskins & Patois Counselors Dec. 31
• Middle C Jazz: Voltage Brothers • Moochies Tavern: Coconut
Remember this as you decide on resolutions By Tony Marciano Contributor
I’m a gear head. I’ve always loved cars. As a kid, I got a plastic Corvette. It was about 10 inches long. Did I tell you it was red? I loved it. Because my town was so small (one mile square), only three classmates had cars. I dreamed of having one but it didn’t happen until my second semester in college. That was when I picked up a 10-year-old Mustang. You would have thought I died and went to heaven. It had a six-cylinder engine and a manual transmission. I drove everywhere with that car. As I got older, I follow social media groups of what are called “barn finds.” That is when a car was rolled into a storage building and left there for 10, 20 or more years. Sometimes a new buyer has to move the debris that has been placed on the car. What originally happens is that the car is rolled into the garage with the full intentions of doing a repair or a restoration. But interest gets lost and the repair doesn’t happen. The car becomes a “table” in the building and items are placed on the trunk, roof and hood. The car is left to deteriorate; that is until someone finds it and buys it. It may take them several hours to remove all the stuff that has been placed on the car. The car is there. It’s just been buried with things. Because my college car was a first-generation Mustang, I have a love of them. I have a neighbor that has a 1969 Mustang. It’s orange and has a fastback. I wish he drove it more. About a year ago, another neighbor purchased a 1967 Mustang. It’s yellow and is a coupe. There are shackles under the rear springs to help with the stance. I would see this car in the driveway and various places in the garage. I knew he
was enjoying it. Then there was the day I was driving home and saw it parked in the garage, nose in. The trunk was facing the street. On the trunk was some debris including a yellow shop vac that had a black top. My heart sunk. I knew the wheels of that vacuum would scratch the trunk. Was this the beginning of the end? Would the car become like so many barn finds a place to store items the owner doesn’t know what to do with? Would the car not be started again for months, years or never? Would it not be driven again? We start projects with good intentions. We’re excited. Maybe you’ve made New Year’s resolutions. You’re going to go to the gym. You start out going five days per week. After two weeks, it cuts back to four. The next week it three days. Then two days. Then you skip a week. Then you brag you have a gym membership but don’t go. The hard thing about change is pushing through when every cell in your being says it’s not worth it. Life can be like a big funnel. The wide part represents the crowd that says I’m interested in (state the change). As the funnel gets smaller, more and more people drop off until you get to the narrow end of the funnel. It’s a lot less people. Whether it’s restoring a 67 Mustang or getting in shape, it’s easy to show excitement in the beginning. It’s harder when there is no “glory” in the mundane, day to day aspect of it. Push forward when you’d rather quit. Who are the successful ones? It’s not that they’re lucky. It’s that they didn’t know how to quit. I’ll be back soon. Until then, live well, my friend. The Rev. Tony Marciano is available to speak to your group. DM him on Facebook.
Mint Hill / Charlotte (28227) • Chipotle Mexican Grill, 9030 Albemarle Road – 95 • Honey Buns, 7323 E. Independence Blvd. – 99.5 • Los Reyes II, 7308 E. Independence Blvd. – 96.5 • Mi Barrio Halal Latin Grill, 7308 E. Independence Blvd. – 98 • Panda Express, 940 Albemarle Road – 96.5 • Stooges Pub & Grub, 13230 Albemarle Road – 98 • Subway, 9044 Lawyers Road – 94 • Tacos Garcia (mobile food unit), 9229 Lawyers Road – 94 • Taxco Mexican Restaurant, 7106 Brighton Park Drive – 99.5 Monroe • Domino’s Pizza, 814 N. Charlotte Ave. – 97 • High Octane Coffee, Creamery and Eatery, 114 Lancaster Ave. – 99.5 • Little Caesars, 2515 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 90.5 • LongHorn Steakhouse, 2117 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 97 • Los Gallos Mexican Eatery, 1709 Walkup Ave. – 90.5 • RaceTrac, 4060 W. U.S. 74 – 97 • Showmars, 2398 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 92 • Silvino’s, 2805 Chamber Drive – 95.5
Indian Trail
VENUES
Monroe
Charlotte
• Amos’ Southend: 1423 S. Tryon St. • Evening Muse: 3227 N. Davidson St. • Middle C Jazz: 300 S. Brevard St. • The Fillmore: 820 Hamilton St. • The Milestone: 3400 Tuckaseegee Road • The Underground: 820 Hamilton St.
• The Trail House: 6751 Old Monroe Road Mint Hill
• Shep’s Bar & Grill: 8111 Fairview Road • Stooges Pub & Grub: 13230 Albemarle Road • Local Logic: 128 S. Main St. • Peddler’s Paradise Bartique: 105 W. Franklin St. • Southern Range Brewing: 151 S. Stewart St. Stallings
• Moochies Tavern: 15054 Idlewild Road Waxhaw
• Great Wagon Road Distilling: 122 W. North Main St.
Threatt wonders if he made a difference as commissioner By Leon Threatt Contributor
I’ve only served for two years, and the last few weeks I’ve been asking myself: What have I accomplished? Why did I take this journey? And have I really made a difference? I’ve tried to live my life in that fashion, to make a difference wherever I am. I guess I leave today not knowing if I really have made the difference that was in the heart of my creator, but I am so grateful for the opportunity to have served as a Matthews commissioner. Certainly grateful for the opportunity to work along some remarkable people. When I first got elected, I came in with the thinking that Matthews needed fixing. I didn’t find as many broken places as I thought I would. I’ve been quite impressed and quite encouraged
by the excellence of staff and those who serve here in Matthews. So I’m grateful for having found that out. I think, for me, my greatest desire – if I can leave you with a thought. My greatest desire is that the town of Matthews would know the love of God and know the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior, because that has been my life passion for the last 47 years. And I will be praying for the town of Matthews that it would know those two things: the love of God and know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. I will continue to pray and serve in whatever capacity I can in the town of Matthews. I thank all of you for the opportunity to have served the good people of Matthews. Thank you. Leon Threatt made these remarks Dec. 8 during his last meeting as a Matthews commissioner.
Hoover thanks community for support By Gina Hoover Contributor
I have received so many well wishes from the citizens of this town wishing me just wonderful things, and I am so appreciative of that. Some people, I don’t even know how they got my phone number, but they got it. So I’ll just read a couple things I have pointed out. I would like to thank everyone for granting me the honor of serving the citizens of Matthews over the past four years. Sitting on this dais has been a privilege, and it’s a responsibility I have always taken to heart. I’m so grateful for all the kind words and well wishes. Brooke, it was so nice meeting you. Your kind words and thoughtfulness were especially meaningful, and I’m grateful for everything you have said to me. I was genuinely humbled by how many people approached me to say they remembered my work from years ago when I maintained a website focused on transparency and accountability in local government. Those who know me understand I did not
DINING SCORES from 1B • Red Bowl Asian Bistro, 3122 Fincher Farm Road – 92.5 • Sam’s Club (market), 1801 Windsor Square Drive – 100 • Tree Top Catering & Cafe, 1031 Matthews-Mint Hill Road – 96
Groove Band • Stooges Pub & Grub: Next O’ Kin • The Fillmore: United We Dance: NYE Rave • The Milestone: DJ Christian Hoefle, DJ Velvetine & DJ Dil3mma • The Trail House: Deacon Black
• Sonic, 1243 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 86 • Subway, 813 E. Roosevelt Blvd. – 96.5 • Subway, 1811 Dickerson Blvd. – 96 • Subway/Circle K, 2226 Lancaster Ave. – 95.5 • Taqueria y Marisqueria Los Pepe’s, 1702 Walkup Ave. – 96 • The Cupbearer (mobile food unit), 410 John St. – 92
run for office to see my name in the paper or to advance a personal agenda. Government work is meant to work for the people, not the other way around. My days are filling up fast, especially now that I am volunteering in my granddaughter’s kindergarten class, which is going to be an adventure in itself. I’m also looking forward to carving more time out for my studies. I am currently working on a book and hoping I can get it published. So thank you to my friends, family, volunteers and your unwavering support and the countless hours you dedicated throughout this past election. A heartfelt thank you to my husband, Ken, who has been so supportive over these past four years and has meant everything in the world to me. I thank God every day for him. And so I thank you all for your kind well wishes. God bless, and have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Gina Hoover made these remarks Dec. 8 during her last meeting as a Matthews commissioner.
Warm up this winter with Waltonwood...
Pineville • Dave & Buster’s, 11049 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 98.5 • DJ’s Restaurant & Pub, 11025 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 95.5 Stallings • China Cafe, 15080 Idlewild Road – 94.5 • Hacienda El Rey, 1361 Chestnut Lane – 98 • Quality Inn & Suites (kitchen), 12047 Guion Lane – 98 • U-Sav, 3609 Matthews-Weddington Road – 97.5 Waxhaw • Sip and Cinder, 1325 N. Broome St. – 94 • Wendy’s, 1000 Kemble St. – 94
Even on the coldest days, the warmth of community shines at Waltonwood Providence Here, you can enjoy the perfect balance of independence and support, with more opportunities to connect, fewer daily responsibilities, and a truly carefree lifestyle. And for those who need a helping hand, assistance is always close by.
Limited availability! Schedule a tour today. 704-246-8670
Weddington • Jersey Mike’s Subs, 13651 Providence Road – 99
P ROVIDENCE
Wesley Chapel • Curry Place, 5922 Weddington Road – 90
Independent Living, Assisted Living & Memory Care
Wingate • Wingate Food Mart, 4420 U.S. 74 E. – 97
11945 Providence Road, Charlotte, NC 28277 Waltonwood.com | SinghCareers.com
The Weekly • December 26, 2025 • Page 3B
Helping Children Manage Big Emotions FAMILY FEATURES
L
ittle children experience big emotions. When things don’t go as planned or they feel overstimulated or face new experiences, children may respond with anger and frustration, fueled by feelings of shame, embarrassment or even a sense of injustice. Because young children often don’t have the language or regulation skills to handle these big feelings, they can result in tantrums, mood swings, rebellion and emotional outbursts, which may trigger feelings of embarrassment and exasperation for parents. Fear not; every parent has been there. Dr. Lauren Loquasto, senior vice president and chief academic officer at The Goddard School, and Kelly Oriard and Callie Christensen, co-
founders of Slumberkins and authors of “All Feelings Welcome,” share guidance to help parents effectively deal with these situations.
Managing Meltdowns Parents are most effective when they stay calm, speak quietly and move slowly. Counterbalance your child’s extreme emotion and behavior with the opposite extreme. Take deep breaths and stay near your child while the emotion dissipates. Scolding only heightens the emotion, so start with empathy, not discipline, and affirm the feelings. For example, “We all get angry sometimes,” or “It makes sense that you’re feeling this way.” Help your child label feelings and seek to understand what caused the outburst. Try Photos courtesy of Shutterstock
“sportscasting” – objectively narrating what you see. For example, “I see you taking deep breaths. I see your cheeks are puffed up and your fists are clenched. I know your sister just took your toy and that might make you feel angry. Are you feeling angry?” This technique can help your child associate physiological feelings with an emotional label. Once calm, work with your child to repair and reconnect. Share your coping techniques. For example, “I feel angry sometimes. When I get angry, I like to stomp my feet and turn up my music. Do you want to try this with me?” Model this often, either when you’re upset or as a teaching moment by pretending to feel angry. Reallife examples help normalize feelings and teach emotion regulation skills. If you acted in a way you regret – yelling, for instance – address it by apologizing and taking responsibility. This grounding can help you and your child move forward.
Taking Proactive Preventative Steps While big emotions and corresponding behaviors are a natural part of early childhood, there are steps you can take to help mitigate future meltdowns. Develop a routine and stick to it as much as possible. Children thrive with structure; the unexpected or unknown can lead to emotional dysregulation. That said, there will always be disruptions and transitions – some small (such as an out-of-town houseguest) and some large (like
moving or welcoming a new sibling). Discuss these moments in advance to help your child anticipate and prepare for the change. Certain situations, such as the grocery store or a public event, may be triggers for children. Avoiding these situations altogether won’t help them learn, so prepare them with social scripting. Tell a story about the situation, discuss what they’ll experience and how they might feel and label the emotions. This talk can reduce anxiety, build confidence and make the situation more manageable. Additionally, it’s important to recognize a child’s emotional state can be intertwined with yours; if you’re overwhelmed, stressed or anxious, your child may pick up on that and experience some of those same feelings. Likewise, if you’re calm, your child is more likely to be, too.
Finding Helpful Resources When children are not in a heightened emotional state, reading books about characters and big emotions can be helpful. Pause and ask them what they think the character is feeling and if they ever feel that way. Consider “Hammerhead, Mad’s Not Bad” and “Felix and the Picnic.” To watch a webinar featuring Loquasto, Oriard and Christensen sharing additional guidance, and to access a wealth of parenting insights and resources, visit the Parent Resource Center at GoddardSchool. com. Visit Slumberkins.com for materials and resources for educators, parents and children.
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Page 4B • The Weekly • December 26, 2025