Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly

INDEX: News Briefs, 6; Crime Blotter, 7; Scores, 8; Education, 11; Calendar, 16; A&E, 17; Sports, 18; Classifieds, 23

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page 3

Laughs, songs and Christmas

spirit

page 19

Sullivan runs into record

book

Volume 7, Number 50 • Dec. 10 to 16, 2014 Locally Owned & Operatedwww.matthewsminthillweekly.com

Matthews business gives residents a new thrifty place by Courtney Schultz

[email protected]

MATTHEWS – Rabbi Bentzion Groner and his wife, Rochel, came to the Charlotte about six years ago hoping to serve the social needs of children with disabilities through the nonprofit, The Friendship Circle.

Bentzion, who is a leukemia survivor, knew he wanted to serve the nonprofit world. He was recruited to serve as the

director of The Friendship Circle in New York and said he felt he had a calling to bring the organization to the Queen City. Likewise Rochel, who has a background in elementary education, felt there was an untapped need after working with stu-dents with disabilities.

They decided to open up a thrift bou-tique, ZABS Place, located at 100 N. Trade St., at the corner of Trade and East John streets in Matthews, and hire the

young adults they’ve been serving to learn different job skills, such as upcycling, refurbishing, accounting and cashiering, among other skills, and give them a space to be “recognized for who they are.”

“No one was serving that need,” Rochel said. “It was incredible to see the progress of these kids (through) spend-ing time with other children with special needs, with typically-developing kids and just that the lack of friendship that they

had to begin was being filled so beauti-fully that I realized this is where I should be.”

The Friendship Circle coordinates teenagers who volunteer with children with disabilities for social gatherings, such as bowling, crafts, sports and home visits.

Multiple organizations provide medi-cal, educational and therapeutic care for

(see ZABS Place on page 10)

Dancing into the spotlight Patriot Playmakers to take stage at SETC

by Courtney [email protected]

Four years ago, theater students at Indepen-dence High School were looking for an outlet. Tight financial times and budget cuts had depleted their theater program, but after two years of being back in business, the Patriot Playmakers will take the stage in Chattanooga, Tennessee, at the South-eastern Theater Conference in March 2015.

The cast and crew of “The Dancers” were one of only two schools that earned the honor of Overall Distinguished Play at the North Carolina Theater Conference (NCTC) high school state competi-tion in Greensboro that earned them a place at SETC. Only 20 other schools qualified for the regional competition from 10 states in the region.

The play is set in the 1950s and follows Hor-ace (played by senior Garrett Branshaw), a lonely teenager who has an arranged date with Emily Crews (played by junior Kayla Hedrick) to attend a dance. Horace discovers that Emily is being forced to go on the date, which deters him. He then meets Mary Catherine Davis (played by senior Marissa Plondke), who is relatable and lonely like him, and the two quickly form a bond.

“It’s relatable to teenagers,” said Kaitlyn Reid, (see Independence High on page 14)

Light up the holiday season

The towns of Matthews and Mint Hill rang in the season last week with tree lightings and other holiday activities. See more on page 5. Courtney Schultz/MMHW photos

• Dec. 10 to 16, 2014 • Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly www.matthewsminthillweekly.com

Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly • Dec. 10 to 16, 2014 • www.matthewsminthillweekly.com

News

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enjoy it.”“Christmas Presence” tells the story of a husband and wife

who decide they want to be alone for the holidays, but instead are bombarded with visitors who interrupt their solitude. Pippin said the comedy in the show “isn’t slapstick” – rather, it’s dia-logue based, focusing on the humor in realistic situations audi-ence members can relate to.

“It’s just a good story with a bunch of comedic elements in it … We evolve a message over (the course of) the show, the message of, ‘Maybe it’s OK to spend time with other people,’” Pippin said.

The show contains about 10 standard Christmas songs Pip-pin and Bledsoe said audience members will know and be able to sing along with. The music is interspersed within the story and will showcase the musical talents of the six individual com-pany members performing in the show. Bledsoe recruited her dad, Gene Bledsoe, a pianist who works for Charlotte Ballet, to play piano for a number of songs in the show, while Pippin will play both piano and guitar and other members also will show off their guitar skills. All company members sing in the show, with each person performing in at least four to six songs.

“The show was really written out of specific circumstances,” said Pippin, who also is directing the show and will play a sup-porting role. “We wanted to showcase the talent within the group.”

The toughest part of producing the play, Pippin said, was reaching a point where he was able to surrender his work, declare it finished and let others read it and begin working on it.

“Even before sending it to people, I was finding ways to fix it. ‘What could I add that’s a callback or foreshadowing? Is there a funnier way to say this? Could I turn it into a joke? Is there something funny to tweak?’ That was the hardest part of writing it all,” Pippin said.

However, he’s excited about seeing the company’s work come

to fruition while also bringing holiday spirit to the Mint Hill community.

“It will be a way of letting (audience members) enjoy the holi-day season like Christmas specials or movies they’ve seen all the time, but (by offering) something nobody’s seen before,” Pippin said. “They can see something original … and there will defi-nitely be laughs in the show, and recognizable music.”

In addition, the show is a way the community can support restoring historic Bain Academy, a circa-1889 Mint Hill building activists want to preserve as a center for the arts, history, science, education and culture, according to a news release.

“It’s been nice to kind of work with people in Mint Hill,” Bled-soe said. “… That’s a good way to help a good cause, and to let people know we’re here.”

Call 704-545-7373 for tickets, and find more information about the show and the Mint Hill-based Black and White Theatre Company at www.theblackandwhitetheatrecompany.com.

Laughs, songs and Christmas spiritTheater company’s original holiday show to support restoring historic Bain School

by Josh [email protected]

MINT HILL – Members of The Black and White Theatre Company will take the stage this weekend in an effort to spread holiday cheer while supporting a local cause as they debut their original musical comedy, “Christmas Presence: A Holiday Alone Together.”

Performances will take place at Spotlight Performing Arts Academy on Friday and Saturday, Dec. 12 and 13, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 14, at 2:30 p.m. Tickets cost $12 per person, and a portion of the proceeds will support the Bain Restoration Project. Members of the Historic Bain Restoration Commit-tee will serve refreshments during the performances. Spotlight Performing Arts is located at 7714 Matthews-Mint Hill Road in Mint Hill.

Company members were brainstorming several months ago about a Christmas-themed show they could perform for the holidays, when the idea to write and produce an original play originated.

“The idea behind it was we don’t want to spend a lot of money to produce a Christmas show, but we wanted to do a kind of aver-age Christmas show with standard Christmas carols,” Amanda Bledsoe, owner of the company, said.

Company member Andrew Pippin volunteered to write the script and crafted a play to incorporate traditional Christmas songs and accentuate the specific talents and abilities of the company.

“I thought we had the capabilities and talents of producing and writing a show,” Pippin said. “The only idea was going in we wanted it to be a holiday show including music … we wanted something (where people could) come and know the songs and

(From left) Jimmy White, Amanda Bledsoe and Andrew Pip-pin will join other members of The Black and White Theatre Company for the original holiday show, "Christmas Pres-ence: A Holiday Alone Together," debuting this weekend in Mint Hill. Josh Whitener/MMHW photo


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News Briefs .........................6

Crime Scene .......................12

Education ...........................23

Arts .............................

......26

Crossword/Calendar ..........28

Movies ..............................2

9

Sports .............................

..31

Service Directory ................35

Inside ...

Remember ‘Schoolhouse Rock’?

‘Anonymous’:To see or not

to see?

PAGE 26

PAGE 29

USA WEEKEND inside!

our pets!

Sher

a D

ieth

/MM

HW

phot

os

Area pets and their ‘parents’ braved chilly conditions Satur-

day morning, Oct. 29, for Matthews Presbyterian Church’s

annual Blessing of the Animals ceremony. Senior pastor Rev.

Bill Pederson led the ceremony, which drew dogs and cats to

the church parking lot, some wrapped in blankets. The church

also collected pet food and supplies to donate to the Humane

Society of Charlotte.

Matthews Presbyterian Church

welcomes pets for annual service

(Above) Bassett hounds Roscoe, 9, and Max, 11;

Karen Novak and her daughter, Carolyn, 7, of

Matthews, brought their 4-year-old yellow Labrador

Molly.

The owners of a shuttered medical-

waste incinerator in Matthews are suing

the town.

MNC Holdings filed a lawsuit in

Mecklenburg County Superior Court

on Oct. 27 claiming the town’s zoning

rules won’t allow the company to make

necessary changes to the site to comply

with new federal Environmental Protec-

tion Agency rules.

The suit comes about five months

after the company sent a letter to Meck-

lenburg County Air Quality saying its

incinerator “ceased operations” in Mat-

thews May 6 and was in the process

of “decommissioning” the site at 3250

Campus Ridge Road, formerly known

as BMWNC and owned by Cincinnati-

based Healthcare Waste Solutions. A

letter from company CEO Joseph May-

ernik in March said closing and selling

the facility is one option the company

was considering after a January ruling

by the N.C. Environmental Commis-

sion forced incinerators to comply with

stricter federal air quality guidelines

well before the state-adopted deadline

of July 1, 2013. Necessary upgrades

to the Matthews incinerator were esti-

mated at $2 million to $5 million.

Incinerator company sues Matthews

Suit: Town’s code won’t

allow business to comply

with new federal rulesby

[email protected]

(see on page 7)

Kids: prepare to cast

your vote!

PAGE 23

Meet Matthews,

school board

candidates

Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 8

Election time is here again.

On Tuesday, Nov. 8, voters in Matthews and

Mint Hill will make decisions in races for Mat-

thews commission, Mint Hill mayor and com-

mission and the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board

of Education. Matthews Mayor Jim Taylor is run-

ning unopposed.

This week, we’ll offer a look at the candidates

in Matthews and school board. If you missed

information about Mint Hill candidates, pub-

lished in last’s week’s issue, go online to www.

matthewsminthillweekly.com.

(see on page 7)

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News

The towns of Matthews and Mint Hill helped residents get ready for the holi-with their recent holiday activities.

Mint Hill hosted its Christmas Tree Lighting on Thursday, Dec. 4, where residents enjoyed holiday cookies, hot chocolate and hot cider, met the Man in the Red Suit, took pictures with the Chick-fil-A cow and enjoyed the town’s holiday decorations.

Town commissioners and Mayor Ted Biggers greeted residents and helped serve holiday treats.

Matthews hosted its Hometown Holi-day Celebration and Tree Lighting and the Downtown Matthews Holiday Stroll and Treasure Hunt on Saturday, Dec. 6, for residents to find their holiday spir-its.

The celebration included crafts, car-riage rides, entertainment, food ven-dors, visits from Rudolph, Mrs. Claus and Santa himself, interactive displays and a tree lighting completed with pyro-technics.

Children collected holiday treats and “goodie” bags from area businesses dur-ing the town’s holiday stroll.

All photos by Courtney Schultz

Light up the holiday seasonby Courtney Schultz

[email protected]

MATTHEWS – Residents from various neighborhoods, including the Chesney Glen, Hampton Green and Courtney subdivisions spoke out against Fullwood Station, a pro-posed subdivision on South Trade Street near Arthur Goodman Memorial Park, during a public hearing at the Matthews Board of Commissioners meeting on Monday, Dec. 8.

Petitioner Tom Waters of Provident Land Services, LLC, said he’s driven past the vacant lot at 1011 S. Trade St. for over 15 years with dreams of developing it.

Matthews senior planner Jay Camp said the parcel was last in play for rezoning in 2005, but was met with opposition from neighbors and has remained vacant since.

Waters’ proposed development, Fullwood Station, would consist of 47 single-family homes priced from $400,000 with lots 10,000 square feet less than the town’s average lot size. The development would include vegeta-tion buffers, a mail kiosk, pocket and eyebrow parks, water-quality ponds and pedestrian access to downtown Matthews and nature trails. Waters feels the proposed development has an “innovative design.”

Matthews Mayor Jim Taylor felt the com-ponents “do not rise to the occasion of inno-vation for me.”

Taylor also requested an option to decrease the number of homes in the lot to under 40, but was met with some hesitation.

“When we planned the community, we

wanted to bring something unique and spe-cial to Matthews. We need to have the num-ber of homes to have the privilege to do those things,” Waters said.

Many residents, particularly from Chesney Glen, were concerned over the increased traf-fic the development would cause.

Randy Goddard, of LandDesign, took traf-fic counts during “peak hours” in the morn-ing and evening in the area and reported the potential traffic would only increase by about 130 trips. However, the traffic counts only measured two hours of the day, and didn’t encompass any hours during tournaments at the Matthews Athletic and Recreation Asso-ciation fields.

Many residents spoke about their safety concerns for the increased traffic, which Waters felt would be eliminated by the expan-sion of South Trade Street to five lanes, but many residents did not think the increased lanes would sufficiently solve the problem.

The entrance of the development was also to serve as a turnaround spot for Hampton Green residents, who cannot cross traffic, but Hampton Green resident, Dick Keith felt the bulb entrance would be just as dangerous as current conditions.

Other residents had concerns about prop-erty lines, proposed greenway access as well as flooding and detention ponds.

On Jan. 6, 2015, a Tuesday, the town’s plan-ning and zoning board will review the proposal and make a recommendation to potentially return to the board of commissioners at their meeting on Jan. 12, 2015, a Monday.


Area residents speak out against new rezoning


10100 Park Cedar Drive, Suite 154Charlotte, NC 28210

Phone: 704-849-2261 • Fax: 704-849-2504www.matthewsminthillweekly.com

Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly is published by the Carolina Weekly Newspaper Group. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is

strictly prohibited.

Advertising: [email protected]

Associate PublisherRandi Trojan

FounderAlain Lillie

PUBLISHER

Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly

News Briefs

News

Matthews places in Top 20 of most improved crime rates in state

MATTHEWS – Safe Choice Secu-rity ranked Matthews 16th on its list of the most improved crime rates in North Carolina.

The rankings were based on crime statistics (both property and violent crimes) of all municipalities with populations of over 5,000 from 2007 to 2012, and Matthews saw a 27.8 percent decrease in crime between those years.

“Though Matthews’ crime rate wasn’t all that high to begin with, the police department’s efforts have seen a drastic decline in both violent and property crime, which is why they made our list of most improved cities in the state of North Carolina,” Safe Choice wrote on its website.

Historic village Christmas gift shop now open

MINT HILL – The Christmas gift shop in the Carl J. McEwen Historic Village in Mint Hill is now open.

The shop features unique and handmade gifts for all ages and genders and will be open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. There will also be special eve-ning hours on Thursday and Friday, Dec. 11 and 12, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The historic village is located at

7601 Matthews-Mint Hill Road in Mint Hill.

Call 704-573-0726 for more infor-mation.

Publix gets ready to open in early January in Mint Hill

MINT HILL – The long-awaited Publix supermarket in Mint Hill Commons will open its doors.

The store, located at 6828 Mat-thews-Mint Hill Road in Mint Hill, will welcome customers into the store through its grand opening cel-ebration on Jan. 7, 2015, a Wednes-day, at 7 a.m.

Visit www.publix.com for more information about the store.

Matthews approves parking spaces on West Charles Street

MATTHEWS – The Matthews Board of Commissioners unani-mously approved the creation of 15 more parking spaces along West Charles Street as long as the cost of those spaces does not exceed $30,000.

At the board’s Oct. 27 meeting, commissioners approved an ordi-nance in its consent agenda to pro-hibit parking on portions of West Charles Street and sections of Tank Town Road, due to safety issues on the streets.

The town staff felt people could park in the railroad parking lot rather than on the street. Local businesses complained the loss of nearby park-ing would affect their sales, stating the railroad parking lot was too far away and not as well lit as it should be, according to a memo to the board

from town manager Hazen Blodgett. The board chose to build new

parking spaces that would include a stone base and asphalt for the spaces and a few gaps to save some of the larger trees. The parking will extend to the intersection of West Charles and Freemont streets.

During the meeting, public works director Ralph Messera said he spoke to Duke Energy about creating more lighting on West Charles Street because it is not currently well lit.

Matthews approves application to Bee City USA Program

MATTHEWS – The Matthews Board of Commissioners unani-mously approved the application to become the fourth Bee City in the United States.

Matthews residents Martha Krauss, a bee keeper, and Carol Buie-Jackson, chairwoman of the North Carolina Wildlife Federation, told the board they felt the distinction would not interfere with Matthews culture.

Matthews was the 64th community in the country to be a certified com-munity wildlife habitat and has been a Tree City USA for 14 years.

The Bee City commitment would be to inform the community about colony collapse disorder, which diminishes the honeybee population and which could impact food qual-ity.

The town will establish an advisory committee, which will share infor-mation to the community on topics of pollinator-friendly environments, purchase a street sign with the des-ignation and celebrate National Pol-linator Week, the third week of June, with events or proclamations.

Charlotte ConwayAdrian Garson

Manager Mike Kochy

ADVERTISING

DISTRIBUTION

EDITORIALManaging Editor

Andrew Stark

Features Editor

Josh Whitener

Asst. Sports Editor

Hannah Chronis

News Writer

Courtney Schultz

News Writer

Ryan Pitkin

Layout Editor

Liz Lanier

Art Director

Maria Hernandez

A&E Editor

Dee Grano

Faith Columnist

Rev. Tony Marciano

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Crime Blotter

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The following people were arrested in Matthews between Dec. 1 and 7, according to the Matthews Police Department.

• Christopher Lenair Lewis, 100 block of Whitefriars Lane: Driving while impaired. Dec. 1

• Bryant Keith Keziah, 4700 block of Morningwood Drive: Larceny; breaking and entering. Dec. 3

• Daisha Mae Holmes, 9200 block of East Independence Boulevard: Possession of Schedule II drug; possession of drug paraphernalia. Dec. 4

• Laura Marie Jarviven, 3400 block of Matthews-Mint Hill Road: Driving while impaired. Dec. 4

• Anthony Roy Randazzo, 10600 block of Monroe Road: Simple possession. Dec. 4

• Roxanne Madelyne Deaton, 9600 block of East Indepen-dence Boulevard: Driving while license revoked. Dec. 4

• Heather Blackburn Meadows, 1800 block of Matthews Township Parkway: Larceny; order for arrest. Dec. 5

• Justin Turree Hall, 9700 block of East Independence Boulevard: Possession of marijuana. Dec. 6

• Joshua Thomas King, 11200 block of East Independence Boulevard: Driving while license revoked. Dec. 6

• Donta Lamas Taylor, 9600 block of East Independence Boulevard: Order for arrest. Dec. 7

The following crimes were reported in Matthews between Dec. 1 and 7, according to the Matthews Police Department.

Vehicle Break-Ins

• JLL Construction, 2530 Matthews Township Pkwy.: $4,080 cash stolen from car. Dec. 2

• 11000 block of East Independence Boulevard: $300 cash stolen and $300 damage to automobile door lock. Dec. 2

• Carrabbas Italian Grill, 10408 E. Independence Blvd.: Three lithium batteries and a lithium battery charger, worth $416.25 total, stolen and $300 damage to vehicle door lock. Dec. 2

Larceny• Kohl’s, 9617 E. Independence Blvd.: Jeans, worth $400,

stolen. Dec. 1• Lowe’s, 2115 Matthews Township Pkwy.: Two roofing nail-

ers, hit nailer and siding nailer, worth $1,286 total, stolen. Dec. 2• 13600 block of Idlewild Road: $3,000 Saturn automobile

stolen. Dec. 3• 13900 block of Woodstar Road: Wallet containing miscel-

laneous credit cards and $200 cash stolen. Dec. 3• 1600 block of Gander Cove Lane: $2,000 Chevy Cavalier

stolen. Dec. 4• 1900 block of Windsor Hill Drive: $20,000 Honda Civic

stolen. Dec. 4• 500 block of Grayson Court: $20,000 Honda Civic stolen.

Dec. 5• 1500 block of Matthews Township Parkway: $1,000 wed-

ding ring and $500 turquoise necklace stolen. Dec. 5• Harris Teeter, 1811 Matthews Township Pkwy.: Oil of Olay

eye cream, Oil of Olay cream, socks, Prilosec and Nexium, worth $167.43 total, stolen. Dec. 5

• 8900 block of Boyd Road: $23 cash and a $25 passport sto-len. Dec. 5

Drugs• Intown Suites, 9211 E. Independence Blvd.: Possession of

drug paraphernalia. Dec. 4• Visual Marketing Building, 10611 Monroe Road: Possession

of marijuana. Dec. 4

• Family Dollar, 10611 Monroe Road: Possession of mari-juana; possession of drug paraphernalia. Dec. 4

• 10600 block of Monroe Road: Possession of marijuana; pos-session of drug paraphernalia. Dec. 4

• 9700 block of East Independence Boulevard: Possession of marijuana; trespassing. Dec. 6

Fraud• Lowe’s, 2115 Matthews Township Pkwy.: $767.15 worth of

goods embezzled. Dec. 1• Sam’s Club, 1801 Windsor Park Drive: Credit card fraud.

Dec. 2• Bed Bath & Beyond, 10530 Northeast Pkwy.: Oral B electric

toothbrush and 16-piece knife set, worth $314.98 total, obtained using false pretense. Dec. 2

• 12700 block of Vikings Creek Drive: Credit card fraud. Dec. 3

• 800 block of Lightwood Drive: Credit card fraud. Dec. 5• 100 block of North Trade Street: Bad checks passed. Dec. 5• Target, 1900 Matthews Township Pkwy.: Makeup, earrings

and bra, worth $35.97 total, obtained by fraudulent means. Dec. 6

Other• 9500 block of East Independence Boulevard: Communicat-

ing threats. Dec. 5

The following people were arrested in Mint Hill between Dec. 1 and 7, according to the Mint Hill Police Department.

• Timothy Scott Ammons, 8000 block of Truelight Church Road: Order for arrest – injury to personal property. Dec. 4

• Bryant Michael Bullock, 9600 block of Stoney Glen Drive: Assault on a female. Dec. 5

• Detavian Rashad Kennedy, 9200 block of Lawyers Road: (see Crime Blotter on page 8)


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Restaurant ScoresPossession of drug paraphernalia. Dec. 5

• Brandon Tyler Fredell, Intersection of Cheryl Circle and Margaret Wallace Road: Order for arrest – parole violation. Dec. 5

The following crimes were arrested in Mint Hill between Dec. 1 and 7, according to the Mint Hill Police Department.

Larceny• Wilco Hess Gas Station, 13354 Albemarle

Road: Cinnamon roll and chocolate milk, worth $2.98 total, stolen. Dec. 1

• Food Lion, 6275 Wilson Grove Road: $25.49 worth of Pampers diapers stolen. Dec. 1

• 7600 block of Davis Road: $2,500 ATV and $1,500 trailer stolen from victim’s driveway. Dec. 5

Vandalism• 4600 block of Lebanon Road: $350 dam-

age to commercial glass window. Dec. 2• CVS Pharmacy, 4397 Wilgrove-Mint Hill

Road: $700 damage to Redbox touchscreen display. Dec. 3

Other• 9800 block of Hofstra Court: Communi-

cating threats. Dec. 4• 9600 block of Stoney Glen Drive: Assault

on a female. Dec. 5

Crime Blotter(continued from page 7)

The Mecklenburg County Health Depart-ment reported the following sanitation scores at the following dining locations in the Mat-thews and Mint Hill area from Nov. 24 to Dec. 8.

All Scores:

28105• IHOP, 9253 E. Independence Blvd.

– 95.5 • Jet’s Pizza, 920 Park Center Drive

– 99.5 • Kristopher’s Sports Bar and Grille,

250 N. Trade St. – 94.5 • Which Wich, 930 Park Center

Drive – 96

28227• Bojangles, 11420 Beaver Farms

Road – 98.5

About the grades…Restaurants are given grades of A for scoring at least 90, B for 80 to 89 and C for 70 to 79. The state revokes permits for restaurants that score below 70. Find more details on Mecklenburg County restaurants at the health department’s website, http://charmeck.org/mecklenburg/county/HealthDepartment/Pages/Default.aspx.


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News

children and teens with disabilities, but they’ve over-looked social opportunities, Bentzion, the nonprofit’s director said. Typically developing children often grow up with many social occasions, but children with dis-abilities often don’t, so Friendship Circle seeks to fulfill that gap, he added.

“We feel the best way to do that is with high school teenagers,” Bentzion said. “Teens are usually involved in their little bubble. They’re not selfish, but self-absorbed and trying to transition from childhood to adulthood, it’s that perfect opportunity to educate them and help sen-sitize them with the challenges other people face and make them aware of how to give back to others.”

Bentzion said teenagers benefit from the program by becoming more responsible and self-confident, learning to appreciate others and helping them grow into their adult lives.

Many of the children The Friendship Circle served have grown up and become teenagers, Bentzion said, and while their peers are searching for college options, the children with disabilities don’t have the same oppor-tunities.

About 75 percent of young adults with disabilities live at home without many workforce opportunities com-pared to 69 percent of their peers who pursue college education and interest-based jobs.

Parents of the children with disabilities approached Bentzion and Rochel for a solution. Some suggested an institution for their children, but the couple had a differ-ent vision through ZABS Place.

“These kids are awesome. They have so much to offer. They have so many talents and skills,” Bentzion said.

“They’re not going to hold down a job like a typically college graduate, but there’s so much that they have. We wanted to focus more on the productivity – what they can do, what their mission in life could be as opposed to where they’re going to live.”

The couple hopes the thrift store will help the young adults they serve transition into the working world. They’ve found they are looking for ways to be produc-tive, rather than focus on compensation. ZABS Place will serve as a two-year stepping stone for teens with dis-abilities to learn workforce-ready skills to work at other area businesses.

“We want to demonstrate (to area businesses) the value that they really bring to the table and that it’s worth it for these businesses to hire them,” Bentzion said.

While providing opportunities for adults with disabili-ties, the Groners want to give shoppers an upscale bou-tique experience with thrift store prices.

“There are thrift stores where you really have to look hard to find something and it’s not really a pleasant experience. Sometimes there’s a smell, but you get really good deals. You go to an upscale boutique – it’s a great experience, great everything, but it’s very expensive. So we want to bring those two elements together,” Bentzion said, adding an example would be purchasing a $200 pair of shoes for $30. “We have very valuable items that are very unique and like-new or new at cheap prices.”

ZABS Place seeks to give customers a “un-thrift shop” experience.

“We want people to feel that they don’t have to go to a dingy, dark place, but also recognize that the person greeting them and checking them out may have special needs,” Rochel said.

Rochel said that people sometimes identify individu-als by their disability, such as referring to someone as

“the autistic man” rather than as “a man with autism.” She hopes through meeting more individuals with dis-abilities , the public will focus on the person rather than their condition.

“You can get 10 people with autism in a room and they’re still 10 people,” Rochel said.

ZABS Place is a donation-based organization named in memory of Zecharya Avraham Boruch Shporer, a Friendship Circle volunteer, who lost his battle to leu-kemia.

The store will host a ribbon cutting on Wednesday, Dec. 10, at 6:30 p.m. and will be open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Fri-days; and noon to 6 p.m. on Sundays.

ZABS Place(continued from page 1)

Rabbi Bentzion Groner and his wife, Rochel, opened ZABS Place to give young adults with disabilities a chance to learn workforce skills. Courtney Schultz/MMHW photo


Education


Education News & Notes

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Matthews Elementary gives back MATTHEWS – Matthews Elementary

School students collected about 2,250 canned goods for the Matthews HELP Center to give to needy families in the community.

School counselor Ashley Brown and the school’s Character Ambassadors led the efforts as the school conducted a competition to see which class would bring in the most canned goods. Brown tracked donations, and gave each class a feather for every 10 canned goods. The feathers decorated Thom and Thomasina turkeys in the classrooms.

Brittany Medogni's first-grade class col-lected the most feathers in the pre-kindergar-ten-to-second-grade category and Fran With-erspoon's fifth-grade class collected the most feathers in the third-to-fifth-grade category.

Crestdale NJHS students help at strollMATTHEWS – Crestdale Middle School

National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) stu-dents volunteered at the annual Matthews Holiday Stroll on Saturday, Dec. 6.

Students prepared and distributed luminar-ies throughout downtown Matthews to help the Matthews Chamber of Commerce.

Contact Lisa Copeland at [email protected] for more information about Crestdale’s NJHS.

Butler faculty named to leaders’ networkMATTHEWS – Butler High School media

specialist Anne Bucci and technology facilita-tor Stephanie Ferron were recently accepted into the inaugural cohort of the North Caro-lina Digital Leaders Coaching Network, a part of the Friday Institute of North Carolina State University.

The group seeks to provide North Caro-lina instructional technologists, instructional coaches, mentor teachers and media coordi-nators with ongoing and job-embedded profes-sional learning opportunities to build capac-ity in both digital and personalized learning, according to the organization’s website.

Bucci and Ferron will travel to Raleigh four times in 2015 to collaborate with educators across North Carolina.

Learn more about the network by visiting dlc.fi.ncsu.edu/dcln/.

CMS: Get an early start on enrollmentCharlotte-Mecklenburg Schools encourages

parents of students not currently attending CMS to enroll by Jan. 12, 2015, a Monday, to be eligible for magnet, career and technical education programs and other school options in the first lottery, according to a news release. Students who are enrolled after Jan. 12 will be eligible for the second magnet lottery, which will run from March 9 to June 5, 2015.

Enrollment for new students also is open and runs through Jan. 12. New-student enrollment is for families interested in the pre-K magnet Montessori programs, entering kindergarten or older students who will be new to CMS for the 2015-16 school year. Lottery applications will be accepted from Dec. 5 through Jan. 26 at 10 p.m. Children must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31, 2015, to be considered for kin-dergarten. Families applying for the Montes-sori schools pre-K program must be 4 years old on or before Aug. 31, 2015.

Families must provide two documents (previously three) to show proof of residency. See the complete list of acceptable documents at www.cms.k12.nc.us/cmsdepartments/StudentPlacement/Documents/Student%20Placement%20Forms_English_2014-1031.pdf.

In addition to these forms, parents must also provide proof of birth and legal name and a copy of the student’s current immunization record.

Call the Smith Family Center at 980-343-5335 or email [email protected] for more information.

CMS ranks fourth in National Board teachers

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools ranked fourth in the nation in number of National Board-certified teachers, with 1,995 teachers having earned the certification, according to a news release.

The ranking, compiled by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards, also shows that CMS ranked fourth in the number of newly-certified teachers this year with 82 earning the designation.

North Carolina has more National Board-certified teachers than any other state, with 20,611 in all. CMS is ranked second in num-ber of certified teachers among districts in North Carolina; Wake County leads the state and the nation, the release said.

National Board certification is valid for 10 years and can be renewed. In 2014, 69 teach-ers in CMS renewed their certification. New and renewed teachers in CMS will be honored with a ceremony in February.

Photo courtesy of Matthews Elementary


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Education

a senior who plays Inez Stanley. “It’s about coming into your shell and becoming yourself.”

Paula Baldwin, the play’s director and Independence’s theater teacher, originally found the play in an anthology a few years ago, and felt it was a good fit for the cast, with only 10 characters in the script.

“I never forgot about the play, but I never had a chance to do it because it only has 10 characters, so I couldn’t do it with a whole class,” said Baldwin, who won an Excel-lence in Directing award at the NCTC state competition. “It gives a chance (for the cast) to work deeper. I knew that if it’s not honest, it’d be boring.”

Many schools at NCTC often have flashy displays, Baldwin added, but “The Dancers” is a “real, honest, real-istic, sweet little story” that the audience could relate to.

But at first, the cast said they didn’t like the play. “We read the play in class, (and) everyone hated it,”

Kayla said, adding they felt the script was boring because the dialogue had many pauses and “awkward “moments.

However, after Baldwin’s directing and coaching, the cast found an appreciation for the characters and began to love the play.

“When you see it, the hard work we put in is what makes it,” said Molly Sue Harmon, a senior who plays Velma Morrison.

The cast devoted time to developing a Texas dialect and an “honesty” in their characters.

“If you take two actors who read a script, they’ll have different takes. The honestly came from the chemistry we chose for our characters,” said Liz Renegar, a junior who plays a waitress.

Kayla said the cast developed backstories for their char-acters to help establish chemistry and “see our characters come to life.”

The cast said their development helped the audience “buy into their characters” to make the performance “believable” to the judges, which earned them a spot at SETC.

Many cast members credit Baldwin’s directing about the “little things,” such as facial expressions, pauses, tone, gestures and more.

Along with the distinguished play and directing awards, the play also earned individual awards at the state com-petition: Kayla Hedrick and Marissa Plondke both won Excellence in Acting awards; Garret Bradshaw won the Outstanding Achievement in Acting award and more than $100,000 in scholarship offers; and senior Sarah Rossi, the play’s stage manager, won the Barbizon Light-ing Excellence in Student Design & Production Award in stage management.

The cast enjoyed the competition and meeting new friends at NCTC.

“Being in my first year (at NCTC), I didn’t expect to have such a welcoming environment,” Kayla said. “It’s amazing (that) we were all there for one common cause – a love of theater. It was nice to know NCTC is the perfect opportunity.”

Both Marissa and Garrett said they’ve kept up with people they’ve met at NCTC and enjoyed sharing the pas-sion with others.

The cast’s next step is raising funds for the trip to Chat-tanooga, which will cost at least $10,000, and preparing for the school’s upcoming musical, “Guys and Dolls,” which many of the cast members will perform in.

The self-sustaining theater program will raise funds through its booster club, profits from ticket sales of the school’s other productions as well as tax-deducible dona-tions from the community. Baldwin is confident that the Mint Hill community will continue to help the group raise funds for competitions.

“The Dancers” cast will continue performing with “pick

up” rehearsals and will also have an encore performance at the school in early 2015.

“The only way to keep (the performance) honest is to keep it fresh,” Baldwin said.

Individuals interested in donating to the Patriot Play-makers may contact Baldwin at [email protected].

Independence High(continued from page 1)

Play director Paula Baldwin, right, gets emotional after hear-ing the PAtriot playmakers qualify SETC. Photo courtesy of Sarah Russi

lives to discover what they’re good at,” Johnson said. “People often think that (middle schoolers) don’t think outside themselves, but they do.”

He encouraged the students to use their passions and gifts to create solutions.

“Every students in here has a gift that they can use to make the world a better place,” Johnson said, urging students to look locally in their neighborhoods to find ways to serve. “I want them to say, ‘I can do something to make a difference.’”

Crestdale Principal Katy Richert hopes the talk inspires the students to see what skills and qualities they possess to make a difference globally and locally.

“We need (the students) to realize the world is such a big place and need to remember that we don’t live in this tiny bubble,” Richert said.

She felt the students’ reactions to the stories were “authentic” and that the pre-sentation will help the students become globally competitive and “sensitive and compassionate to everything around us.”

Johnson said he hopes to reach students now so they can become a generation of change and can help solve the problems created by today’s generations.

Visit silentimages.org to find more information about Silent Images.

Looking beyond themselvesSilent Images director urges Crestdale to make a difference


MATTHEWS – David Johnson, the founder and director of Matthews-based nonprofit Silent Images, posed a simple question to the student body of Crestdale Middle School on Dec. 4.

“What’s in your hand that can help make a difference in the world?” he asked. “Sometimes in life we are preconditioned to what we want to see.”

The nonprofit has traveled the world highlighting important issues – glob-ally and locally – through photographs and documentaries, and presented the message of having a global impact and increasing global awareness to the stu-dents.

“Photography is so important because it changes the perspective of the world,” Johnson said. “So we don’t miss the important parts of the story.”

Johnson feels today’s media misrepre-sents important issues, so youth are often misinformed about the world. He chal-lenged Crestdale students to make their computer homepages a reliable news source, such as BBC, to learn about global issues, and urged students to become knowledgeable about international and

local issues, so they can become part of the solution of the world’s problems.

“Don’t be overwhelmed that you’ve got to do everything,” Johnson said to the stu-dents. “You’ve just got to do something.”

He urged students to think beyond material items to solve global problems. Johnson feels many westernized coun-tries have contributed items to nations in unrest as a means of solving the nation’s problems, and found in some circum-stances, such as genocide, material items are not the solution.

The Silent Images team told stories about unsung heroes around the world they’ve met who have used their gifts to help others, such as a Robert, a Ugandan man who taught chess to children of the slums in his country. He knew how to play chess and didn’t have much money, but knew he wanted to make a difference in his community, Johnson said. Through his practice, he met Phiona Mutesi, a girl from a torn background who became a talented chess player and the youngest chess champion in all of Africa.

Johnson used stories like Robert’s to demonstrate how someone can have an impact with what skills and talents they possess, rather than just material items.

“Middle school students are right in one of the most important states of their

Silent Images director David Johnson, far right, and his team shared their experiences with Crestdale students. Courtney Schultz/MMHWphoto


Around Town

Annecy 2423 Annecy Drive Nov. 5 $188,000 Ashley Farms 2908 Dubberly Court Nov. 25 $115,00010013 Dunfries Road Nov. 25 $142,0002941 Walsingham Court Nov. 18 $122,500 Benton Woods 9409 Sardis Glen Drive Nov. 17 $360,000 Brightmoor 3400 Crescent Knoll Drive Nov. 25 $194,000 Callaway Forest 2855 Longspur Drive Nov. 12 $125,000 Coachman Ridge 220 Manor Ridge Drive Nov. 25 $400,000 Country Place 524 Wilcrest Drive Nov. 4 $171,500 Dunnwood 2223 Dunnwood Hills Drive Nov. 14 $286,9002243 Dunnwood Hills Drive Nov. 12 $252,000 Glenwood Manor 9612 Harness Lane Nov. 10 $114,0003721 Hunters Run Lane Nov. 6 $80,0009605 Harness Lane Nov. 3 $117,500 Hampton Green 1007 Bydeford Court Nov. 19 $200,000 Madison Ridge 14904 Castlebridge Lane Nov. 17 $191,500 Marshbrooke 3417 Catskill Drive Nov. 6 $115,000 Matthews Grove 2026 Savannah Hills Drive Nov. 10 $210,000

Matthews Ridge 6747 Fieldstone Manor Drive Nov. 5 $250,000 Millstone Ridge 1403 Cochrane Woods Lane Nov. 17 $299,000 Pheasant Knoll 3229 Old House Circle Nov. 23 $127,000 Pine Forest 600 Deer Creek Drive Nov. 25 $135,000 Providence Hills 3409 Savannah Hills Drive Nov. 12 $420,000 Reverdy Woods 1204 Glenn Valley Drive Nov. 25 $458,500 Sardis Forest 9334 New Towne Drive Nov. 26 $159,0009611 Leeswood Lane Nov. 14 $200,000 Sardis Mill 100 Sardis Mill Drive Nov. 19 $489,000 Savannah Hills 3517 Cameron Creek Drive Nov. 21 $270,000 The Forest 1314 Wyndmere Hills Lane Nov. 25 $920,000 Thornblade 1631 Thornblade Ridge Drive Nov. 3 $226,478 Williams Station 2832 Williams Station Road Nov. 24 $182,900 Wyndmere 1414 Sycamore Knoll Court Nov. 24 $285,000

Applegate 6209 Springbeauty Drive Nov. 25 $185,150

Arlington Hills 9202 Arlington Hills Drive Nov. 6 $512,500 Arlington Oaks 9809 Arlington Oaks Drive Nov. 25 $255,500 Ashe Plantation 9804 Hanging Moss Trail Nov. 7 $250,000 Bainbridge 9446 Nugget Hill Road Nov. 14 $230,00010704 Saybrook Court Nov. 3 $225,000 Becton Park 6708 Dwightware Blvd. Nov. 21 $68,000 Danbrooke Park 6621 Paul Schadt Lane Nov. 20 $156,000 Eagle Woods 6312 Golden Eagle Lane Nov. 25 $194,880 Eastwoods 5829 Old Meadow Road Nov. 5 $55,000 Fairington Oaks 13103 Fairington Oaks Drive Nov. 25 $346,50015128 Shingle Oak Road Nov. 6 $340,000 Farmwood 6521 Gold Wagon Lane Nov. 21 $273,0007401 Canterway Drive Nov. 14 $202,000 Heathergate 7203 Ravenglass Lane Nov. 19 $87,500 Hickory Ridge 6515 Palo Alto Lane Nov. 13 $93,0006507 Burning Bush Court Nov. 13 $76,000 Hidden Hills 12910 Twilight Drive Nov. 14 $350,000

Hillandale Acres 8616 Vagabond Road Nov. 6 $132,000

Ivystone 3700 Ashley Hall Drive Nov. 20 $64,000 Lawyers Station 10112 Topeka Drive Nov. 17 $122,000 Marion 5402 Olivet Drive Nov. 19 $46,000 Marlwood Acres 1005 Norwich Road Nov. 14 $103,0001033 Norwich Road Nov. 13 $135,000 Marlwood Forest 6106 Trotters Ridge Road Nov. 26 $74,000 Mayhew Country Estates 5225 Mayhew Country Drive Nov. 24 $187,500 Morris Farms 8704 Sweet Sage Lane Nov. 21 $101,900 Oxfordshire 5710 Sugarcane Court Nov. 13 $255,000 Sherwood Forest 10925 Flintshire Road Nov. 25 $225,815 Summerwood 9425 Minnie Lemmond Lane Nov. 25 $450,8658348 Early Bird Way Nov. 21 $345,72510328 Lemington Drive Nov. 13 $386,707 Timber Creek 9616 Hannon Road Nov. 14 $76,000 Versage 6928 Woodbridge Valley Circle Nov. 5 $226,000 Woodbury 9505 Cotton Gum Road Nov. 11 $167,3799501 Cotton Gum Road Nov. 3 $179,000

28105

A breAkdown of recent home sAles

Nov. 2014 Nov. 2013 Nov. 2012

Homes Sold 68 67 39Average Sales Price $220,363 $213,778 $199, 514

Home Salesin Matthews and Mint Hill

Address dAtesold

sAleprice Address dAte

soldsAleprice Address dAte

soldsAleprice Address dAte

soldsAleprice

28227

11735 Carolina Place Parkway, Pineville NC 704.910.4045

pineville location monday - saturday 10-7 sunday 12 - 5goodshomefurnishings.com

CLEARANCE SALELuxury for le�

HUNDREDS OF CLEARANCE ITEMSAdditional 10% Off!

Sale ends Dec. 20, 2014

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Bedrooms, Dining Rooms, Living Rooms, Tables, Home Office and More

Items vary by location

Editor’s note: Information provided by the Charlotte Regional Realtor Association and www.sales.carolinahome.com


DONATEGOODS

The Salvation Army Family Store & Donation Center

11328 E. Independence Blvd. Matthews, NC 28105

Rocky River Self Storage & Offices 13534 Plaza Rd Extension

Charlotte, NC 28215

Providence Presb. Church 10140 Providence Church Ln

Charlotte, NC 28277

For Drop Off:

www.SATRUCK.org 1-800-SA-TRUCK

For Home Pick-Up:

12.11.14 and 12.12.14Thursday and Friday

Carl J. McEwen gift shop holds special hours, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The Christmas Gift Shop in the Carl J. McEwen Historic Village will hold special evening hours, staying open until 8 p.m.

The shop offers unique and handmade gifts and a variety of other holiday merchandise.

In addition to the special evening hours, the shop is open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Call 704-573-0725 for more information.Carl J. McEwen Historic Village, 7601

Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill

12.12.14Friday

Date Night Drop Off, 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.Date Night Drop Off allows parents an opportunity

for a kid-free evening on the town. The service is open to children 7 to 13 years old.

Participants will receive a free discount card or gift certificate to a local restaurant, and the cost is $7 for the first child and $3 for each additional child.

The supervised child care will provide gym games, dancing, movie screenings and more for those who attend while parents are invited to enjoy a night out to themselves. Email [email protected] or call 704-708-1287 for more information.

Crews Road Rec Center, 1201 Crews Road, Matthews

12.12.14 and 12.14.14Friday and Sunday

‘A Classic Christmas’Go back in time and enjoy an evening of Christmas

memories as the Matthews Playhouse’s production of “A Classic Christmas” samples musical numbers and vignettes from TV’s Christmas specials of yesteryear.

There will be two showings. On Dec. 12, the show begins at 7 p.m., and on Dec. 14, the show starts at 9 p.m. The shows are suitable for all ages.

Visit www.matthewsplayhouse.com to purchase tickets or for more information.

Fullwood Theater, 100 McDowell St. E., Matthews

12.13.14Saturday

Matthews Farmers Market, 8 to 10 a.m.

The Matthews Community Farmers Market reopened for its Winter Market season on Dec. 6 and will run through March.

The Winter Market features arugula, Asian greens, beets, bok choy, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, collards, escarole, greenhouse lettuces, green onions, kale, kohlrabi, field-grown lettuces, micro greens, mushrooms, mustard greens, pac choi, pecans, radicchio, rutabagas, spinach, sweet potatoes, Swiss chard, turnips, winter squash, fresh-cut flowers, assorted culinary herbs, dried fruits, vegetables and more.

Visit www.matthewsfarmersmarket.com for more information.

12.13.14Saturday

Breakfast with Santa, 9 a.m. to noonMeet Santa Claus and have a photo taken with him at

this meet-and-greet style event that’s fun for the whole family. Breakfast will be served and there will be plenty of holiday crafts on hands to browse or buy.

Matthews Community Center, 100 E. McDowell St., Matthews

12.13.14Saturday

Technology Learning Day, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Matthews Community Center is offering assistance for anyone who has questions about computers or needs help with a project, on the second Saturday of every month. Help will be given in a variety of areas including Mac OS and Windows users including Microsoft Office, Internet usage, digital photography and movies, Photoshop, Adobe Acrobat, software for backing up, Quicken, networking and general how-to advice. Call 704-321-7275 or email Colten Marble, cultural recreation specialist, at [email protected] for more information.

Matthews Community Center, 100 McDowell St., Matthews

12.16.14Tuesday

Charlotte Woodcarvers meeting, 9 a.m. to noon

The Charlotte Woodcarvers meet weekly on Tuesday mornings in Matthews.

All skill levels, from the most experienced to new carvers wishing to learn, are welcome to join the Charlotte Woodcarvers.

Woodcraft Store, 1725 Windsor Square Drive, Matthews

12.21.14 Sunday

The Charlotte Bronze Handbell Ensemble, 4:30 p.m.

The largest community handbell group in the Piedmont, the Charlotte Bronze Handbell Ensemble, will perform its free holiday concerts.

The “Welcome, Yule” concerts will be directed by Charlotte Bronze’s artistic director and conductor Timothy H. Waugh. The concerts are free, and families are welcome.

Twenty-two ringers ranging in age from 14 to 60 years old and older will perform on four sets of bells (two sets of Malmark, one set of Schulmerich and one set of Whitechapel) and two set of chimes (both Malmark).

The program will include classics such as “White Christmas” and “Sleigh Ride,” as well as newer arrangements of “A La Ru” and “O Come, O Come Emmanuel.” Original handbell compositions will include Arnold Sherman’s “Laudation” and “Cascades.”

The Charlotte Bronze Handbell Ensemble includes two community handbell groups and was founded in March 2011. Just 4 years old, the group has already performed in many festivals and events in Charlotte and across the state.

In addition to the Matthews concert, on Monday, Dec. 22 at 7 p.m., CBHE will perform in the sanctuary at First United Methodist Church at 501 N. Tryon St. in Charlotte.

Morning Star Lutheren Church, 12509 Idlewild Road, Matthews

Around Town

Dec.11

Send us your stuff!Have an event going on in Matthews and Mint Hill

people should know about? Well, let us know! Send us an email listing about your event, including when and where it is, any cost involved and how people can learn more or get involved. Email us at [email protected].


Calendar


Arts & Entertainment

News & Notes

Matthews-Mint Hill WeeklyArts & Entertainment

Silent Images documentary takes first place in film festival

MATTHEWS – Silent Images, a Matthews-based nonprofit dedicated to telling stories of hope in the midst of oppression and hardship, recently was awarded the Best Documentary Film award at the 100 Words Film Festival in Charlotte.

Silent Images founder David Johnson accepted the recognition on behalf of Silent Images in front of a sold-out crowd at McGlohon Theatre, crediting the hundreds of people who courageously shared their stories with Silent Images in 2014 as the real winners of the award.

The nonprofit is donating the $1,500 award to the charities involved in the winning “Beyond the Skyline” film. The documentary highlights a variety of Charlotte-area needs.

Find more information about Silent Images at www.silentimages.org. View “Beyond the Skyline” at vimeo.com/107709111.

Cruise raffle to benefit Bain Restoration Committee

MINT HILL – People have the opportunity to win a six- to eight-night cruise on a Royal Caribbean ship while also helping restore the circa-1889 historic Bain School building.

Tickets cost $10 and will be sold at Dunwellz Custom Kitchen and Pour House through 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 10. The drawing will take place at 7 p.m., and people don’t have to be present to win.

Winners will receive an ocean cabin cruise fare, port charges, tax and gratuities. People can choose their destination and sail date. Destination options include Alaska, Europe, the Caribbean or Canada and New England. Blackout dates include the week of Christmas and New Year’s Day. Call Dana Finley at 704-807-0646 for more information.

All proceeds will benefit the Bain Restoration Committee. Find more information on the committee and its efforts to restore historic Bain School at

www.bainacademy.net.Dunwellz is located at 7110 Brighton

Park Drive.

Free performances of opera ‘Amahl and the Night Visitors’

Mosaic Arts in collaboration with Opera Carolina will host free performances of “Amahl and the Night Visitors” on Dec. 16, 19 and 20.

Gian Carlo Menotti, creator of the one-act opera, was the first composer to have his work commissioned for television. This opera was created to appeal to a popular audience while also maintaining high musical achievement standards, according to a news release. “Amahl and the Night Visitors” was broadcast by NBC on Christmas Eve 1951 and became a holiday classic.

“The holiday season message – of love, good deeds and miracles – resonates in this story about the shepherd boy Amahl’s encounters with the Three Kings and a magic star,” read the release about the event.

The following is the schedule of “Amahl and the Night Visitors” performances:

• Tuesday, Dec. 16, at 7 p.m. at Quail Hollow Presbyterian Church, 8801 Park Road in Charlotte

• Dec. 19, a Friday, at 7 p.m. at Broad Street United Methodist Church, 355 Broad St. in Mooresville

• Dec. 20, a Saturday, at 4 p.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 740 N. Center St. in Statesville

Sponsored by the Knight Foundation and the Hearst Foundation, the events are free, but “goodwill donations” are suggested, according to the news release. Reservations aren’t required. Call 704-332-7177 for more information.

Send us your arts-related news!Is your artists’ group hosting a special art

show or a fundraiser? Know of a local artist working on a cool or unique project? No matter what the case, we want to know about it! Send your arts-related news, including details such as times, locations and costs of special events, along with how people can learn more, to [email protected], “attn. Josh Whitener.”

The Silent Images team recently received the Best Documentary Film honor for their docu-mentary, “Beyond the Skyline.” Photo courtesy of Silent Images

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STORIES AND BREAKING LOCAL NEWS!


Arts & Entertainment

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BACKPORCH TREASURES THRIFT SHOP

Stocked with holiday gifts and home décor/great prices plus so much more!

119 N. Ames Street | Matthews, NC 28015Open Mon-Sat. 9-5

Please come shop with us!Where shopping is a good deed!

Japanese SteakhouseThe Best Hibachi Show in Town!

Fujimi

Closed MondaySun-Thurs 11am-10pmFri & Sat 11am-11pm

10412 E. Independence Blvd.Unit# 410 Matthews, NC 28105

www.fujiminc.com

[email protected]

Sushi Night on Tuesday & Wednesday

Long before “Wicked” scorched Broadway with the Oz witches’ back story, a musical called “Into the Woods” blazed the trail when it pre-miered in 1986. Created by award-winning American composer Stephen Sondheim, “Into the Woods” weaves multiple fairy tales together into one, with fast-paced dialogue, intricate music and a surprisingly-human connection to the way modern families work.

The “helicopter” mom/witch, who raised Rapunzel, wishes to protect her from the world, but Rapunzel wants only to see what lies beyond her tower. Two princely brothers pine for the love of Rapunzel and Cinderella, respectively, but become bored once married. After years of infertility, the baker’s wife receives the child she’s always wanted, only to realize something is still missing.

“The show touches on human emotion,” said Susan Gundersheim, head of performing and visual arts at the Levine Jewish Community Center (LJCC), who directed “Into the Woods.” “It’s an unbelievable blend of pathos and humor – you’ll be laughing hysterically one minute and crying the next.”

“Into the Woods” creates a singular sto-ryline by interweaving characters from “Little Red Riding Hood,” “Jack and the Beanstalk,” “Rapunzel” and “Cinderella,” among others. The show’s main focus is the baker and his wife,

made infertile by the witch’s curse. Familiar characters including Grandmother, Wolf, Giant, Snow White and Sleeping Beauty, all play a role in the journey to lift the spell. The plot twists and turns as calamity ensues and keeps the audience guessing.

“ ‘Into the Woods’ is a big leap of faith for us,” said Gundersheim, who selected the show knowing it is less familiar to some audience members and artistically challenging for the performers.

The music features complex rhythms and motifs that repeat with changed words and dif-ferent notes. In this production the actors sing to a recording, which is harder than it sounds since with a live orchestra, conductors can slow the music down or adjust it during rehearsal to accommodate the singing talent.

“The performers have found mastering the show very rewarding,” said Gundersheim who applauded the performers for rising to the occa-sion to pull off an excellent production.

South Charlotte resident David Catenazzo plays the “Mysterious Man,” a character who starts the show as an eccentric old coot, but reveals more depth as his familial connection to the Baker is revealed. In Act Two, the two men share a song called “No More.” Catenazzo sings, “The farther you run, the more you feel undefined, for what you’ve left undone and, nore, what you’ve left behind.”

“What you get is this huge spectrum, from

crazy-funny to touching and sentimental.”A full-time managing director of global tech-

nology for Bank of America, Catenazzo is not a professional actor but comes very close. He played Tevia in last year’s production of “Fiddler on the Roof” at the LJCC. Every role he takes must be fit around a demanding work schedule that can sometimes include international travel. Catenazzo also has a wife and three children, one of whom is in the show.

“Joshua loves it,” said Catenazzo of his son who performs in the ensemble. “He and I get to sing together certain times during the show.”

“Everyone who wants to participate can,” explained Gundersheim, who casts these shows with a “placement audition.” Everyone who tries out gets in. The audition defines what role each player gets. The resulting cast is large with 63 people, and includes all ages and levels of expertise, including people who work “regular jobs” and professional performers who jumped at the chance to be in “Into the Woods.”

“Somehow we manage to let everyone in, and keep the quality high,” said Gundersheim.

“It’s such a different approach,” said

Catenazzo, who feels this process makes the show a uniquely intimate and touching experi-ence for the audience. “Because people get chances that they wouldn’t be able to from other theatres… you get this amazing experience, and it shows.”

The LJCC’s Visual & Performing Arts Depart-ment opened “Into the Woods” Dec. 6. This is the last weekend to see the show, it will play Sat-urday, Dec. 13 and Sunday, Dec. 14, at 2 and 7 p.m. each day. Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the door. For more information: www.charlottejcc.org. The Levine Jewish Commu-nity Center is located at 5007 Providence Road in south Charlotte.

Just because “Into the Woods” is produced by the Levine Jewish Community Center does not mean it is exclusively for the Jewish com-munity. Auditions and attendance to those shows is open to the whole community as are all their visual arts workshops and classes. Most LCJJ artistic offerings feature member and non-member pricing. For more information on the benefits of membership, visit www.charlottejcc.org and click the Membership tab.

by Dee [email protected]

Last weekend of LJCC’s “Into the Woods” connects fairy tale and family life

The cast of LJCC’s “Into the Woods.” Photo courtesy of Peter Safir


Sports

Based on a simple suggestion from her mother, Providence’s Grace Sullivan decided to give cross-country a try during her freshman year of high school.

Sullivan had grown up as a star on the soccer field, and that fall heeded her moth-er’s advice, figuring cross-country would at least keep her in shape for the coming soc-cer season.

But Sullivan was a natural on the trails, too, and was a quick study to her new sport. She said she began to see improvement as her times quickly fell, and she ended her freshman season with a 13th-place finish at the N.C. High School Athletic Association Western Regional, crossing the finish line in 19 minutes and 17 seconds.

“During my freshman year I didn’t think very much of running,” Sullivan said. “I was into soccer. That’s the sport I grew up playing. My mom kind of pushed me into running because my brother did it. I kind of liked it, but wasn’t that serious about it until after that year Coach (Kurt Niedenzu) and (boys coach Steve Touranjoe) were saying that I could do bigger and better things with this – that lit a fire under me.”

Sullivan was hooked, and she never looked back.

She finished eighth in the region during her sophomore season – helping lead the Panthers to the regional title – and ran a then personal-best 18:32 in the state meet, finishing 17th while cutting nearly a minute off her time.

After her sophomore season, Sullivan started getting even more serious and upped her training regimen to the 40 miles a week she treks in-season now. She began dream-ing of leading the Panthers back to the win-ner’s circle by claiming individual success and thought of the possibility of running in college.

In the years since all of that has hap-pened, and especially this season when

Sullivan capped off the final chapter in what’s become a storybook career.

“I have a big drive within myself,” Sulli-van said. “It’s good to do it as an individual, and I do want to see my times go down, but when I do well my team is so supportive and that means a lot. When anyone does well the whole teams comes and hugs you and is supportive – that lets you know all the hard work paid off.”

With the admiration of her teammates and her times among the fastest in the state, Sullivan added to her already impres-sive resume, and has now earned the Mat-thews-Mint Hill Weekly 2014 Girls Cross-Country Runner of the Year.

“I wanted to improve my 5K time, which I did and it was something I’m very proud of,” she said. “I also wanted this team to become closer and more of a family. This year it was very much about the team, so I think I accomplished both of my goals.”

There wasn’t much Sullivan didn’t accomplish in her career. This season she backed up her 2013 Western Regional title with another regional gold medal – running 17:35 to shave five seconds off her junior season region-winning time and helping the Panthers to a second-place team finish.

But she didn’t stop there. Sullivan ran 18:25 at the challenging Ivey

Redmon Sports Complex course in Kerners-ville to place fifth at the state championship meet for the second consecutive year and led her school to third place in the state.

On the year, Sullivan won a regional title, eared a top-10 finish at states, ran the state’s fourth-fastest recorded time and closed out her career with a scholarship to N.C. State, where she’ll run next fall.

“Freshman year I just wanted to stay in shape through running, but throughout the years I kind of motivated myself and started to think that maybe I could do this in col-lege. I’m really proud of myself and what I accomplished.

“I’m really excited to continue in college and see where it can take me.”

by Andrew [email protected]

A Step Up

Cross CoUntry sUper teamMatthews-Mint Hill Weekly’s

Anna Albright, Myers ParkEmma Brown, Providence DayCameron Echols, Covenant Day

Helen Griffith, Providence

Catherine Haley, ProvidenceLindsey Lanier, ProvidenceSarah Parrish, ProvidenceClaire Strickler, Providence

Kiley aymar, Ardrey Kell Kate eiselt, Myers PArK

The Ardrey Kell sophomore had a breakout season, finishing second at the So. Meck 8 conference meet (18 minutes, 31 seconds), third at the Western Regional (17:38) and 15th at the

state meet (18:57).

GraCe sUllivan, Providence lamont Hayes, Myers PArK

Second Team:

Runner of the Year: Coach of the Year:

sydney Farris, Myers PArKKayla Glova, Providence

story GoUrley, Myers PArKJosie Jordan, Ardrey Kell

mary proUty, Myers PArKGraCe sUllivan, Providence

Big things are on the horizon for this sophomore as Eiselt backed up her impressive freshman cam-paign with a stellar season by placing 12th in the state (18 minutes, 55 seconds), ninth in

the region (18:42) and second at the South-western 4A conference meet, finishing just three seconds off the pace.

Another key cog in the Western Regional champion Mustangs, Farris was fourth in the South-western 4A confer-ence meet and had a strong showing in the postseason, fin-ishing 14th in the

region (19 minutes, 16 seconds) and 30th in the state (19:41).

The junior was a big part of the regional runner-up Panthers success this year, as Glova was fourth in the So. Meck 8 meet (18 minutes, 47 seconds), eighth in the region (18:38) and 33rd in the state (19:44).

Another super-talented Mustang sophomore, Gour-ley finished third in the Southwest-ern 4A conference, eighth in the region (18 minutes, 38 seconds) and was 18th in the state (19:03).

The only fresh-man to make the first team, Jordan had a remarkable debut as she was third at the So. Meck 8 meet (18 minutes, 41 sec-onds), seventh in the region (18:35) and finished 25th in the state (19:35) – post-

ing the fastest freshman time by 36 seconds.

The Myers Park senior had quite a run this year, as the Southwestern 4A champion paced the regional cham-pion and state run-ner-up Mustangs all year. Prouty was second in the region (17 minutes,

38 seconds) and seventh in the state (18:35).

A Providence frontrunner for four years, Sullivan capped her high school career in style with a So. Meck 8 championship (17 minutes, 53 sec-onds), her second Western Regional crown (17:35) and a

fifth-place finish at states (18:25). Sullivan will run at N.C. State next season.

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reboundS

name School GameS PointSTrey Phills Charlotte Christian 7 24.6Khayleb Connelly South Meck 3 23Zaqwaun Matthews Myers Park 4 21.8Dalen Dotson Providence 5 21.2RaeQuan Scott Butler 4 20Grant Williams Providence Day 7 18.3Kamil Chapman South Meck 3 18.3Jaylen Thompson Grace Academy 7 18.1Orlando Robinson Butler 4 18Shawn Morrison Grace Academy 7 17.7Remele Everett-Hicks Carmel Christian 5 16Leito Holloway Rocky River 5 16Devon Dotson Providence 5 15.2Cole Klaren Grace Academy 6 14.7Marcus Thomas Independence 5 14.4Demetry Leake Queen's Grant 5 14.4Grant Hedberg South Meck 3 14.3David Perry Queen's Grant 4 13.8Mac Brydon Carmel Christian 5 13.6Steven Santa Ana Ardrey Kell 6 13.5Keyon Wesley Rocky River 4 13.5Jonah Hood Carmel Christian 5 13.4Devin Cooper Ardrey Kell 1 13Josh Brodowicz Charlotte Catholic 4 12.8Joe Scibelli Charlotte Catholic 5 12.2Patrick Tape' Queen's Grant 5 12.2Jalen Blakeney South Meck 3 12

PointS

Sports

1) myerS Park (5-1)

2) ardrey kell (4-2)

3) Providence day (5-1)

4) butler (4-0)

5) rocky river (4-1)

6) covenant day (7-2)

7) charlotte chriStian (4-3)

alSo receivinG voteS: charlotte catholic (3-2)

1) ardrey kell (5-1)

2) Providence day (4-3)

3) myerS Park (3-2)

4) South meck (4-2)

5) Providence (3-2)

6) butler (2-2)

7) charlotte chriStian (6-1)

droPPed out: charlotte latin (4-3)

alSo receivinG voteS: charlotte catholic (4-1)

name School GameS reboundSGrant Hedberg South Meck 3 15.7Jaylen Thompson Grace Academy 7 13.6Patrick Tape' Queen's Grant 5 12.2Mac Brydon Carmel Christian 5 9.6Jah' lil Carter Butler 4 9.5Quadrian Jamison South Meck 3 8.3Josh Freund Ardrey Kell 7 8.2Trey Phills Charlotte Christian 7 8Luiz Machado Providence 5 7.8Steven Santa Ana Ardrey Kell 6 7.7Joe Scibelli Charlotte Catholic 5 7.6

name School GameS aSSiStSDavid Perry Queen's Grant 4 6.8Tireq Morrow Rocky River 3 5Cole Klaren Grace Academy 6 4.5Jalen Blakeney South Meck 3 4.3Dalen Dotson Providence 5 4.2Devon Dotson Providence 5 4Bill Robertson Myers Park 3 4Jace Weir Queen's Grant 4 3.8Seth Davis Ardrey Kell 7 3.8Grant Williams Providence Day 7 3.7Shawn Morrison Grace Academy 7 3.7Jonah Hood Carmel Christian 5 3.4Lee Houck Myers Park 4 3.3

name School GameS StealSTireq Morrow Rocky River 3 3.7Devon Dotson Providence 5 3.6Lee Houck Myers Park 4 3.5Cole Klaren Grace Academy 6 3Jalen Blakeney South Meck 3 2.7Kamil Chapman South Meck 3 2.7Trey Phills Charlotte Christian 7 2.6Chaz Raye Providence Day 7 2.6

name School GameS blockSPatrick Tape' Queen's Grant 5 7.4Nick Goble Myers Park 4 2.5Grant Hedberg South Meck 3 2.3Jah' lil Carter Butler 4 2.3Quadrian Jamison South Meck 3 2.3Christian Taylor Independence 5 2.2Grant Williams Providence Day 7 2.1Joe Scibelli Charlotte Catholic 5 1.6Arthur Labinowicz Butler 4 1.3Austin Griffin Butler 4 1.3

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name School GameS PointSJanelle Bailey Providence Day 6 22.2Aliyah Mazyck Myers Park 3 19.3Ariana Nance Rocky River 3 18.3Sarah Billiard Covenant Day 9 17Erin Whalen Providence Day 6 14.8Fairen Sutton Butler 4 13.3Chanin Scott Myers Park 3 12.7Michaela Daniels Providence 5 12.6Hannah Billiard Covenant Day 9 12.2Kobe Leigh Butler 4 11.8Ali Fitch South Meck 7 11.7Caroline Dennehy Charlotte Christian 7 11.1Rydeiah Rogers Myers Park 2 10.5Hydeia Harvey Rocky River 3 10.3Meredith Harris Charlotte Christian 7 10Jordan Muhammad Ardrey Kell 2 10Lyric Mitchell Myers Park 3 10

name School GameS reboundSSarah Billiard Covenant Day 9 15.1Janelle Bailey Providence Day 6 12.2Lyric Mitchell Myers Park 3 12Jaiden Mason Charlotte Christian 7 10.3Chanin Scott Myers Park 3 10Hannah Billiard Covenant Day 9 9.6Grace Gach Charlotte Country Day 4 8.8Chi-Chi Maduegbunam Providence 5 8.4Deja McCain Ardrey Kell 3 8.3Lucy Pedlow Charlotte Country Day 2 8Meghan Fleury Providence 5 7.8Carrie Eberle Charlotte Catholic 5 7.6Erin Whalen Providence Day 6 7.5Melissa Roulier Charlotte Catholic 5 7.2Keyanah Richardson Butler 4 7Courtney Barrett Butler 4 6.3Ali Gakenheimer Charlotte Country Day 3 6.3Erica VanDusen Covenant Day 8 6.1

name School GameS aSSiStSAja Stevens South Meck 7 4.3Quiera Gilmore Ardrey Kell 3 4.3Michaela Daniels Providence 5 4.2Sarah Billiard Covenant Day 9 3.4Kennedy Boyd Providence Day 6 3.2Meredith Harris Charlotte Christian 7 3Kobe Leigh Butler 4 2.8Maggie Dupree Charlotte Catholic 5 2.8Alexis Khlor Covenant Day 9 2.4Garlea Patton Charlotte Christian 6 2.3Izzy Gallant Providence Day 6 2.2

name School GameS StealSMichaela Daniels Providence 5 5.4Claudia Dickey Charlotte Latin 1 4Lyric Mitchell Myers Park 3 3.7Ali Fitch South Meck 7 3.7Lucy Pedlow Charlotte Country Day 2 3.5Kiera Dowell Charlotte Latin 1 3Chanin Scott Myers Park 3 3Carrie Eberle Charlotte Catholic 5 3Rydeiah Rogers Myers Park 2 3Hannah Samuelson Charlotte Catholic 2 3Stepahnie Ferraro Charlotte Catholic 5 2.8Fairen Sutton Butler 4 2.8Rinnah Green Butler 4 2.8Alexis Khlor Covenant Day 9 2.7Kerstie Phills Charlotte Christian 3 2.7

name School GameS blockSCarrie Eberle Charlotte Catholic 5 6.2Chi-Chi Maduegbunam Providence 5 4.2Sarah Billiard Covenant Day 9 3.6Sydney Scott Charlotte Latin 1 3Hannah Billiard Covenant Day 9 3Ali Gakenheimer Charlotte Country Day 3 2.7Danielle Griffin Ardrey Kell 3 2.3Lyric Mitchell Myers Park 3 2Melissa Roulier Charlotte Catholic 5 2Grace Gach Charlotte Country Day 4 2Janelle Bailey Providence Day 6 1.7Anna Schoek Covenant Day 6 1.5Kobe Leigh Butler 4 1.3

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Independence boys looking for first win

After losing a core group of four seniors who helped turn around the Independence boys basketball program and led the Patriots to a pair of conference titles, this season has under-standably been a little slow to get going.

The Patriots are replacing four starters – guards Herbert Bowen, Jr. and Tayon Gleaves and forwards Workpeh Kofa and Deion Lane – who accounted for 87 percent of the team’s assists, 81 percent of the scoring and 72 per-cent of the rebounds a season ago.

Holdover starter Marcus Thomas is back this year, and has played well – leading the team with 14.4 points per game and averaging 3.4 rebounds, the team’s second-highest total.

But aside from Thomas, the Patriots have struggled to score as they’ve shot barely 33 per-cent from the field and 24 percent from 3-point range on the year.

The wins have been slow to come by for the Patriots (0-5), who have been blown out in three games and suffered a pair of tough losses.

Sophomore guard Matthew Statile has been a bright spot, averaging seven points per game and seniors Kadeem Harry (4.6 points) and 6-foot-7 Christian Taylor (5.4 rebounds, 2.2 blocks) have made consistent impacts.

Six-foot-seven post Justyn Hamilton had a career high 11 points and five rebounds in the

Patriots 57-46 loss to West Meck on Dec. 5, and would bring a much-needed boost to the interior if he’s able to contribute regularly.

The Patriots get back to action against Wed-dington on Wednesday, Dec. 10 and travel to East Meck on Dec. 12.

Raven boys looking to take flight

Coach Oscar Walker said before the season that there would be some growing pains as he got used to his new players and they adjusted to his style. His concerns have come to fruition as the Ravens have come out of the gates win-ners in just one of their first eight games after dropping a heartbreaker to East Gaston, 78-74 on Dec. 5.

Despite their record, there have been several bright spots beginning with senior wing Leito Holloway, a Butler transfer who’s averaged 16 points and three rebounds a game.

Holloway has been joined by 6-foot-7 junior forward Keyon Wesley, who’s averaged 13.5 points and 4.2 rebounds and chipped in a career-high 22 points in the Ravens lone win of the year, an impressive 67-58 victory over Providence.

While Wesley and Holloway have been the headliners as the Ravens leading scorers and shoot a combined 51 percent from the field, much of the rest of the team has struggled, making just 51-150 shots from the floor (34 percent).

But there have been a few players helping

form a consistent, but young, core.Sophomores Tireq Marrow (seven points,

five assists), Anthony Salley (5.2 points) and Jonathan Hicklin (six points) have provided a spark for the up-tempo Ravens’ backcourt, and 6-foot-5 sophomore post Tyrek Haywood (5.6 rebounds, 4.4 points) has helped solidify the frontcourt.

The Ravens will look to add another win as they host Myers Park on Friday, Dec. 12.

Carmel Christian wins showdown over Queen’s Grant

Carmel Christian coach Joshua Coley has a history of turning around programs, and this season the first-year Cougar head coach has his team two wins shy of their school record of seven wins.

With a 48-43 win over Mint Hill rival Queen’s Grant on Dec. 5, the Cougars (5-4) took the next step in proving they’re here to stay.

Remele Everett-Hicks led the way with 16 points, eight rebounds and four steals. Mac Brydon chipped in with 11 points and five rebounds and Jonah Hood played a solid floor game, contributing six assists, four points and four rebounds.

David Perry led the Stallions (3-2) with 13 points and seven assists. Patrick Tape’ narrowly missed on a triple-double with six points, 11 rebounds and nine blocks.

The Cougars dropped a 63-45 game to Free-dom Christian School on Dec. 6. Everett-Hicks again led the way with 17 points and seven rebounds, and Brydon added 15 points and 16

rebounds.The Cougars travel to Victory Christian on

Thursday, Dec. 11, and Queen’s Grant travels to West Montgomery on Friday, Dec. 12.

Butler boys seek consistency

The Butler boys basketball team began the year with a pair of impressive wins, but after falling 61-57 to Charlotte Catholic on Dec. 6, the Bulldogs find themselves seeking an identity after consecutive second half letdowns evened their record at 2-2.

The Bulldogs trailed West Charlotte by one point at halftime in their Nov. 24 game, but were outscored 62-32 in the second half to suf-fer a demoralizing loss.

In the West Charlotte game, Butler was led by Orlando Robinson’s 24 points, and shot 44 percent against the Lions. However, the Bulldogs committed 21 turnovers, allowed the Lions to shoot 61 percent, and were out-rebounded 45-33 – including giving up 24 offensive rebounds.

The same problems existed against Charlotte Catholic, as Butler blew a seven-point halftime lead and scored just six fourth-quarter points.

RaeQuan Scott led the Butler offense with 13 points, but the Bulldogs shot just 37 percent for the game. Jah’ lil Carter had 13 rebounds leading to a 34-25 advantage on the boards, but untimely missed shots ultimately doomed their chances.

Butler will look to get back in the win col-umn when they travel to Garinger on Friday, Dec. 12.

sports shortsby Andrew Stark

[email protected]


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Real estate–FoR sale

ACROSS 1 Stops 6 Stoned10 Genre for N.W.A.

or T.I.13 Honolulu hello14 Everglades bird16 “Yes, there ___

God!”17 Gave in18 Critic’s positive

review of drummer Keith of the Who?

20 Had down pat21 Its national

animal is the vicuña

22 Small matter?23 Powerful

industrialist25 Please, quaintly27 Whine tearfully29 Thick-skinned

one30 Tribal symbol31 With 40-Across,

critic’s positive review of a Fox medical drama?

32 Male turkey

35 Nonhuman sign language learner

36 Posted an opinion, maybe

38 “___ had it up to here!”

39 “Agreed”40 See 31-Across41 Chair designer

Charles43 Mythical

man-goat44 First family of the

1840s45 Galaxy

competitors48 They’re hard to

run in49 Incessantly50 “___ be

surprised”52 Homer Simpson’s

favorite beer55 Critic’s negative

review of a 1988 Hanks film?

57 Word before range or cord

58 “___ with caution”

59 Everglades bird

60 Place for a court-ordered monitor

61 ___ Taco (fast-food chain)

62 Decisive time63 Car introduced

by Elon Musk

DOWN 1 Unrespected

writer 2 Mathematician

Turing 3 Critic’s negative

review of singer Courtney?

4 Stand-up routine?

5 Down 6 Macho dudes 7 Dr. Frankenstein’s

helper 8 Many “Family

Feud” celebrations

9 Mama bird10 Digital camera

brand11 Help desk sign12 Old-hat15 Asset for an

umpire or editor

19 ___ the Orange (Syracuse mascot)

21 Typical “Meet the Press” guest, for short

24 Band that sang the “Friends” theme song “I’ll Be There for You,” with “the”

26 React to yeast27 Certain court

order28 “Uh-uh”29 “___ that”

(“Understood”)

31 Eastern Catholic ruling body

32 Critic’s negative review of a newsmagazine?

33 More than

34 Predicament

37 Minstrel’s instrument

42 “Finished!”

43 Mamas’ boys

44 Sen. Cruz

45 About to bloom

46 Asset in a beauty pageant

47 “Science of Logic” philosopher

48 Iditarod dog

51 Plant also known as ladies’ fingers

53 When many network shows debut

54 Pet pest

56 “___ be my pleasure!”

57 Winery fixture

PUZZLE BY JOEL FAGLIANO

Annual subscriptions are available for the best of Sunday crosswords from the last 50 years: 1-888-7-ACROSS.AT&T users: Text NYTX to 386 to download puzzles, or visit nytimes.com/mobilexword for more information.Online subscriptions: Today’s puzzle and more than 2,000 past puzzles, nytimes.com/crosswords ($39.95 a year).Share tips: nytimes.com/wordplay. Crosswords for young solvers: nytimes.com/learning/xwords.

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P I C T S L A V S L A T EA D A Y W A V E A I L E DZ I N C A M E S R E A R S

C O M P A S S C O U R S ES H E B A E E N M E LC O L B Y C O L L E G EA L L S O D A S K I M SL E E R D E B A R G N A TA D D E D O R E O D N A

C O L O R C O P Y I N GI W O N T H T O G A SC O U N T R Y C O U S I NI O N I A E L L S C A B SN E C K S A I D E K N E EG R E E K H O E D S T E W

The New York Times Syndication Sales Corporation620 Eighth Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10018

For Information Call: 1-800-972-3550For Release Tuesday, December 9, 2014

Edited by Will Shortz No. 1104Crossword

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ELTON PIANO for sale . Excellent condition .Piano bench / stool included. Daughter used when she took lessons. In Matthews area . $350. Call David M.7 0 4 - 5 7 8 - 2 3 9 2 . 121214

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Looking for great pay, local schedule, and excellent benefits? Salem currently seeking local A & B CDL A & B Drivers to join our Charlotte area team. Drop and Hook only. Home EverydayWe Offer: Great Benefit Package, 401K, Paid Holidays, Vacation & Bonuses: Job Requirements: CDL-A or B License Minimum 1 year driving experience. Ask about our New Driver Apprenticeship Program. Walk in applicants welcome weekdays. 4810 Justin Court, Charlotte. 28216 Please APPLY BELOW, or call 800-709-2536 for more information! www.salemleasing.com. 121214

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To advertise, visit www.carolinaweeklynewspapers.comCarolina Weekly Classifieds Network

Vehicles FoR sale

ACROSS 1 Stops 6 Stoned10 Genre for N.W.A.

or T.I.13 Honolulu hello14 Everglades bird16 “Yes, there ___

God!”17 Gave in18 Critic’s positive

review of drummer Keith of the Who?

20 Had down pat21 Its national

animal is the vicuña

22 Small matter?23 Powerful

industrialist25 Please, quaintly27 Whine tearfully29 Thick-skinned

one30 Tribal symbol31 With 40-Across,

critic’s positive review of a Fox medical drama?

32 Male turkey

35 Nonhuman sign language learner

36 Posted an opinion, maybe

38 “___ had it up to here!”

39 “Agreed”40 See 31-Across41 Chair designer

Charles43 Mythical

man-goat44 First family of the

1840s45 Galaxy

competitors48 They’re hard to

run in49 Incessantly50 “___ be

surprised”52 Homer Simpson’s

favorite beer55 Critic’s negative

review of a 1988 Hanks film?

57 Word before range or cord

58 “___ with caution”

59 Everglades bird

60 Place for a court-ordered monitor

61 ___ Taco (fast-food chain)

62 Decisive time63 Car introduced

by Elon Musk

DOWN 1 Unrespected

writer 2 Mathematician

Turing 3 Critic’s negative

review of singer Courtney?

4 Stand-up routine?

5 Down 6 Macho dudes 7 Dr. Frankenstein’s

helper 8 Many “Family

Feud” celebrations

9 Mama bird10 Digital camera

brand11 Help desk sign12 Old-hat15 Asset for an

umpire or editor

19 ___ the Orange (Syracuse mascot)

21 Typical “Meet the Press” guest, for short

24 Band that sang the “Friends” theme song “I’ll Be There for You,” with “the”

26 React to yeast27 Certain court

order28 “Uh-uh”29 “___ that”

(“Understood”)

31 Eastern Catholic ruling body

32 Critic’s negative review of a newsmagazine?

33 More than

34 Predicament

37 Minstrel’s instrument

42 “Finished!”

43 Mamas’ boys

44 Sen. Cruz

45 About to bloom

46 Asset in a beauty pageant

47 “Science of Logic” philosopher

48 Iditarod dog

51 Plant also known as ladies’ fingers

53 When many network shows debut

54 Pet pest

56 “___ be my pleasure!”

57 Winery fixture

PUZZLE BY JOEL FAGLIANO

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P I C T S L A V S L A T EA D A Y W A V E A I L E DZ I N C A M E S R E A R S

C O M P A S S C O U R S ES H E B A E E N M E LC O L B Y C O L L E G EA L L S O D A S K I M SL E E R D E B A R G N A TA D D E D O R E O D N A

C O L O R C O P Y I N GI W O N T H T O G A SC O U N T R Y C O U S I NI O N I A E L L S C A B SN E C K S A I D E K N E EG R E E K H O E D S T E W

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For Information Call: 1-800-972-3550For Release Tuesday, December 9, 2014

Edited by Will Shortz No. 1104Crossword

Financial

Miscellaneous

help wanted

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pets

FoR sale

MeRchandise


Peripheral Neuropathy WARNING!Pain, Numbness, & Tingling In The Hands/Feet

Call 704-228-3888

Charlotte, NC -- �e most common method your doctor will recommend to treat your neuropathy is with prescription drugs that may temporarily reduce your symptoms. �ese drugs have generic names such as Gabapentin, Amitriptyline, or Pregbalin and are primarily antidepressant or antiseizure drugs. �ese drugs may cause you to feel uncomfortable and have a variety of harmful side e�ects.

Figure 1: Notice the very small blood vessels surrounding each

nerve.

Peripheral neuropathy is a result of damage to the nerves o�en causing weakness, pain, numbness, tingling, and the most debilitating balance problems. �is damage is commonly caused by a lack of blood �ow to the nerves in the hands and feet which causes the nerves to begin to degenerate due to lack of nutrient �ow.

As you can see in Figure 2, as the blood vessels that surround the nerves become diseased they shrivel up which causes the nerves to not get the nutrients to continue to survive. When these nerves begin to “die” they cause you to have balance problems., pain, numbness,

Figure 2: When these very small blood vessels become diseased they begin to shrivel up and the nerves

begin to degenerate.

tingling, burning, and many additional symptoms.

�e main problem is that your doctor has told you to just live with the problem or try the drugs which you don’t like taking because they make you feel uncomfortable. �ere is now a facility right here in Charlotte, NC that o�ers you hope without taking those endless drugs with serious side e�ects (see the special neuropathy severity examination at the end of this article).

In order to e�ectively treat your neuropathy three factors must be determined.

1) What is the underlying cause?

2) How Much Nerve Damage Has Been Sustained.

NOTE: Once you have sustained 85% nerve loss, there is nothing that we can do for you.

3) How much treatment will your condition require?

�e treatment that is provided at the Charlotte Spine and Pain Relief Center in Charlotte has three main goals:

1) Increase blood �ow2) Stimulate small �ber nerves3) Decrease brain-based pain

�e treatment to increase blood �ow utilizes a specialized low level light therapy (not to be confused with laser therapy) using light emitting diode technology. �is technology was originally developed by NASA to assist in increasing blood �ow.

�e low level light therapy is like watering a plant. �e light therapy will allow the blood vessels to grow back around the peripheral nerves and provide them with the proper nutrients to heal and repair. It’s like adding water to a plant and seeing the roots grow deeper and deeper.

Figure 3: �e blood vessels will grow back around the nerves much

like a plant’s roots grow when watered.

�e amount of treatment needed to allow the nerves

to fully recover varies from person to person and can only be determined a�er a detailed neurological land vascular evaluation. As long as you have not sustained at least 85% nerve damage then your condition can be treated.

Dr. Keith Helmendach, D.C. at the Charlotte Spine and Pain Relief Center will do a neuropathy severity examination to determine the extent of the nerve damage for $49 (normally $70). �is neuropathy severity examination will consist of a detailed sensory evaluation, extensive peripheral vascular testing, and a detailed analysis of the �ndings of your neuropathy.

Dr. Helmendach will be o�ering this neuropathy severity examination from now until Monday, December 29th, 2014.

Call 704-228-3888 to make an appointment with Dr. Keith Helmendach, to determine if your peripheral neuropathy can be treated.

NOTE: Our o�ce is located in Charlotte, NC at 7215 Lebanon Road.

MOST MAJOR HEALTH INSURANCE PATIENTS ARE

ACCEPTED.

FEDERAL BENEFICIARY RESTRICTIONS MAY APPLY.

IF YOU DECIDE TO PURCHASE ADDITIONAL TREATMENT, YOU HAVE THE LEGAL RIGHT TO CHANGE YOUR MIND WITHIN THREE DAYS AND RECEIVE A REFUND.

Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly

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