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INSIDE ▼ Wegmans hiring for Ballantyne store
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PAGE 1B Friday, June 12, 2026 • Vol. 26 • No. 23
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Grad: 'Everything happens for a reason' by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com
WEDDINGTON – Parvathy Unnikrishnan admits she struggled to figure out what to say in her graduation speech. The valedictorian chose to focus on a saying she’s used what seems like a million times: “Everything happens for a reason.” “What I’ve realized about Weddington is that it has a way of
preparing you for moments you don’t see coming,” Unnikrishnan told classmates June 8. “The late nights, the difficult classes, the coaches and teachers who pushed you past what you thought you were capable of. None of that was merely an accident.” Even the low moments help shape us. “You don’t need to know how each and every moment of your life will play out,” she said. “You just need to trust that the road
you’ve already walked, every hard step, every detour, every moment you almost didn’t make it, was preparing you for exactly what’s next. Everything happens for a reason. And one day, not too far from now, you’ll look back at this chapter and understand why. Until then, push forward.” Unnikrishnan was among 439 graduates at Weddington. Of those, 331 plan to attend a fouryear college or university, 52 a community college, 16 a trade
school and four a branch of the military, according to Assistant Principal Michelle Newnam. “Over these past four years, one lesson has become clear to me – success does not look the same for everyone,” Student Body President Hayden Duong said. “Each of us carries our own dreams, our own struggles and our own vision for the future, and that is what makes this class so extraordinary.” Duong encouraged classmates
to pursue their goals with courage and lead with kindness. DECA advisor Amber Kemp told graduates to chase purpose, not perfection. “When I look back on my own life, the moments that shaped me the most were not the perfect ones,” Kemp said. “They were the moments that I failed, the moments I had to adjust, the moments I had no idea what came see WEDDINGTON, Page 4A
County 911 undergoes leadership change
Anna Elisabeth Dowdy was respected throughout the legal community. She was known for her green thumb, which makes this an especially fitting way to remember her. Photos courtesy of City of Monroe
City of Monroe honors life of Anna Dowdy MONROE – The City of Monroe planted a tree June 9 at Gateway Park in memory of Anna Elisabeth Dowdy. The cherry blossom tree is a symbol of her life and a reminder that the impact someone makes keeps growing long after they are gone. A plaque now honors the tree as a tribute to a woman who cared about her community and family. Dowdy was an attorney
who spent much of her career serving the people of Union County t h r o u g h the Public D e f e n d e r ’s Dowdy Office and the District Attorney’s Office. Anna was a member of Immanuel’s Church and the Monroe Historic District Commission.
New site touts economic development MONROE – Union County Economic Development has launched DiscoverUnionCounty.com, a new website designed to showcase the county’s industry recruitment and retention services. The website serves as a resource for site selectors, expanding companies, workforce development partners and community stakeholders seeking information about Union County’s strategic location, business climate and quality of life. “DiscoverUnionCounty.com tells the story of what makes Union County a great place to do business,” Economic
Development Director Ron Mahle said. “Whether you are considering relocating or establishing a new industry here, expanding your existing operations or learning more about our workforce pipeline, this website provides a comprehensive look at the assets, partnerships and opportunities that set Union County apart.” With its proximity to Charlotte and rural character, Union County continues to attract investment through its skilled workforce, infrastructure and partnerships among public and private organizations. The website highlights the county’s strengths in aerospace and precision
manufacturing, agribusiness and other key industries that contribute to the local economy. The site also features information about workforce development efforts across Union County. Through partnerships with schools, educators, elected officials and industry leaders, local initiatives help students explore career pathways while building the skills needed for future success. Visit DiscoverUnionCounty.com or contact Union County Economic Development through the website to learn more.
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MONROE – Union County Emergency Communications Department Director Vicki Callicutt will retire effective July 31, following nearly nine years of service to Union County. Callicutt joined Union County in November 2017 and has served as director of emergency communications since her hiring. She has led the county’s 911 communications operations and helped strengthen emergency response coordination and service delivery. The Emergency Communications Department, commonly known as C-COM, employs more than 40 people who answer and dispatch emergency calls throughout Union County. The department serves the sheriff’s office, police departments, EMS, fire departments, emergency management and several after-hours community service lines. “Vicki has provided steady leadership and unwavering dedication to public safety throughout her time with Union County,” Deputy County Manager Patrick Niland said. “Her work has had a meaningful impact on our organization, emergency responders and residents across the county. We are grateful for her service and wish her the very best in a well-deserved retirement.” Union County has promoted the department’s assistant director, Caleb Brackett, to serve as the next director of emergency communications effective July 1, providing time for the leadership transition before Callicutt’s last day. With more than 13 years of experience with the department, Brackett has steadily advanced through numerous leadership and operational roles. County officials say he has a strong understanding of the team’s operations, technology and mission. Brackett has earned several advanced certifications. “Caleb’s experience, institutional knowledge and commitment to professional development make him exceptionally qualified to lead the department into the future,” Niland said. “I am confident he will continue to strengthen the department and support our community.” In 2025, 911 telecommunicators answered 213,810 calls for police, fire and medical help. Of those calls, 90% were answered in 10 seconds or less. Quick Hits • The Union County Sheriff’s Office logged 71 arrests, 111 processed inmates, 142 incident reports and 316 traffic stops from May 31 to June 7. • Community Officer Deputy Tiffany Hill is the guest of episode 5 of “10-41: A UCSO Podcast.”