· Zumba with your Dog
· Costume Contests
· Halloween Photos
· Doggie Treats
For more information contact:
Melissa Knicely
CMPD Animal Care & Control
mknicely@cmpd.org
704-336-3627
Check out the easy, new way find us on the web at animals.cmpd.org
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The officers of the Eastway Division responded to a call for service
placed by the employees of the business. The caller advised the owner
came in at 6:00 a.m. and was last seen leaving the business a short
time later. The employee stated that the owner's keys, cell phone, and
vehicle were still on the premises. There is surveillance video
showing the business owner entering the business this morning.
The subject, Joseph Marett, Jr was last seen wearing a sweater vest
with a buttoned down shirt and tan khaki pants. Mr. Marett is
approximately 6 feet tall.
Anyone who sees or has information about Joseph Marett, Jr. is asked
to call 911. In addition, you may call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.
Detective T. Burkard is the lead detective assigned to the case.
"This is a tremendous milestone for Dynamic Aviation and we're excited
to have the opportunity to build Dynamic Airways into a successful
business to support the needs of both commercial and government
customers with jet charter services," said Michael Stoltzfus,
president and CEO of Dynamic Aviation. "We look forward to providing
customers with highly reliable flight schedules and outstanding
customer service in a manner that continues our company's long
tradition of service and excellence."
Dynamic Airways currently operates one MD-88 aircraft, with a second
slated for delivery in mid-December. The company currently employs a
team of 40 full-time and part-time personnel.
"As home to where our aviation industry first took flight, we are
proud to launch Dynamic Airways in North Carolina," said Guy Cannady,
Dynamic Aviation chief operating officer for Dynamic Airways. "This
new business will mean more jobs for the Piedmont Triad area and more
aviation industry opportunities for the state."
Dynamic Airways aircraft are available for charter worldwide. Company
executives are expecting the airline to serve the federal government
as well as a variety of groups in the private sector, such as the
tourism industry, collegiate athletic teams, private charter groups,
and any other industries and groups that have a need for reliable,
customized transportation.
To complete its FAR Part 121 certification, an effort that the company
began over a year ago, Dynamic Airways developed manuals, procedures
and training programs, and also worked closely with the FAA and its
regional and local affiliate organizations to demonstrate its ability
to operate aircraft safely and comply with all safety regulations and
standards.
Additionally, throughout the process, Dynamic Airways was subjected to
a rigorous financial and management fitness determination conducted by
the U.S. Department of Transportation, which found it to be "fit,
willing and able" to act in the public interest as an air carrier.
About Dynamic Aviation
Dynamic Aviation is the leading provider of jet charter services and
innovative special-mission aviation solutions designed to meet the
unique requirements of government and commercial organizations
worldwide. The company delivers customized aerial assets and services
to support a wide range of customers, including national defense,
military intelligence, federal agencies, state and local governments,
nonprofit research organizations, private companies, and private or
public individuals. Dynamic Aviation has the flexibility and resources
to deliver world-class aviation solutions that combine mission-
modified aircraft, experienced flight crews and comprehensive
maintenance services. The company operates a 40,000-square-foot heavy
maintenance and modification center, engine shop, and privately owned
airport at its headquarters in Bridgewater, Va. It also operates an
airline business that is headquartered in Winston-Salem, N.C. Dynamic
Aviation employs approximately 550 aviation professionals, owns more
than 160 aircraft and operates from 20 locations in 10 countries
across four continents. For more information, please visit www.dynamicaviation.com
.
These office leases quickly follow the recent announcement that
Tranquil Court's first two floors of retail space were fully leased by
Charles Thrift of Crosland. Over 39,000 sf of the space has been
signed since March. Mellow Mushroom, Metro Fitness, Salon P, Fabo
Café, William Bray Law Firm and J.F. Schultze Construction are all
currently open and occupy the building. All signed tenants except
Tranquil Family Dentistry will be open by the end of 2010.
Medalist Capital Inc., (3,787 sf) a commercial mortgage banking
company that specializes in arranging permanent, non-recourse
financing for its customers, is relocating its corporate headquarters
to Tranquil Court. The company has locations in five cities throughout
the Southeast – Charlotte, Raleigh, Charleston, Atlanta and Tampa.
Medalist Capital, which was formed in March 2004, plans to open its
doors at Tranquil Court in early December. The company's loan
producers have over 135 years of combined experience in the mortgage
banking industry.
"This new location is close to where many of our employees live," said
Don Williams, president of Medalist Capital. "Tranquil Court is in a
pocket of commercial development that provides many walking options
during and after work such as Nolen Kitchen, Mellow Mushroom, Selwyn
Pub, Yoforia, Reid's and others. We think this will be a vibrant area
to work."
Robby Kirby and Bailey Patrick with Merrifield Patrick Vermillion
represented Medalist Capital in the transaction.
Dixon Wells Inc. (2,674 sf) is a financial advisory business and plans
to join Tranquil Court on Selwyn Dec. 1. The office will be run by
husband-and-wife team, Stephen and Laura Grice.
Stephen, who grew up on Selwyn Avenue, said he is excited to relocate
the Dixon Wells' Charlotte office to Tranquil Court. Laura is
principal with Dixon Wells, while Stephen is a registered principal
with Transamerica Financial Advisors. They handle insurance and
investments, respectively.
The office will employ a team of professional advisors dedicated to
clients' goals. Through training and coaching, custom case design,
underwriting and more, the firm helps to deliver dramatic results to
clients while protecting their practice and building their business.
With locations in Birmingham, Ala. and Charlotte, N.C., Dixon Wells
has over 200 years of industry experience encompassing key
professional designations.
Robby Kirby of Merrifield Patrick Vermillion handled the transaction.
An Ashley Furniture HomeStore (4,220 sf) office is expected to join
Tranquil Court in mid-November. This office will house executives as
well as the accounting and IT departments for the Charlotte-area
market's 12 stores. Founded in 1945, Ashley Furniture is based in
Wisconsin and the HomeStore brand is the No. 1 retailer of furniture
and bedding in the United States.
Scott Mileham of New South Properties of the Carolinas handled the
transaction.
Alice Carmichael Richey PLLC (1,636 sf) is expected to open its doors
in early 2011.
Handling almost every type of litigation over her career, Alice Richey
has represented both plaintiffs and defendants, individuals and large
corporations. She is experienced both in the courtroom and in
assessing the rights and liabilities of parties involved in a variety
of relationships including: corporate, partnership, contractual, real
estate, insurance, landlord/tenant, franchisor/franchisee,
construction, employment, and creditor/debtor.
Richey also has extensive experience in all aspects of trademark and
copyright law, as well as experience representing parties involved in
business and personal torts and claims of unfair trade practices and
competition.
Richey was formerly a partner with Kennedy Covington Lobdell & Hickman
LLP, where she practiced for 22 years. She was a partner for one year
at K&L Gates, LLP (by merger with Kennedy Covington) before founding
her own firm.
Scott Wilson of Childress Klein Properties represented Alice
Carmichael Richey PLLC in the transaction.
In addition, Tranquil Court's residential building is expecting three
new closings this month.
About Crosland LLC
Founded in 1937, Crosland is one of the most prominent diversified
real estate companies in the Southeast and is recognized as a leading
community builder. Its expertise in retail, multi-family, office, land
development, and general contracting enables it to be an innovator in
multi- and mixed-use development.
Headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., Crosland has offices in Raleigh,
Orlando, Tampa and Nashville, and develops, builds and manages
properties in the Carolinas, Florida, Kentucky, Georgia, Tennessee and
Virginia. The privately held company has developed over 26,000 multi-
family units (including 3,600 affordable housing units since 1989),
over 10 million square feet of retail projects, and over 20,000 single-
family lots. Currently, Crosland owns and/or manages for third-party
clients over 6.3 million square feet of retail space and 6,500 rental
apartments. For more detail, visit crosland.com.
However, the City reminds parents and guardians that children are more
than twice as likely to be hit and killed by a car on Halloween as any
other night of the year and to follow these tips to keep everyone safe
this Halloween:
• Safely cross streets, don't cross between parked cars.
• Walk on sidewalks or paths and children under the age of 12 should
always trick or treat with adult supervision.
• Carry flashlights and wear reflective items if you will be trick-or-
treating in the dark.
• Teach children to stop only at houses or apartment buildings that
are well-lit and never to enter a stranger's home
Make sure that an adult or an older responsible youth will be
supervising the outing for children under age 12.
Plan and discuss the route trick-or-treaters intend to follow.
Know the names of older children's companions. Set a time limit.
Instruct your children to travel only in familiar areas and along
an established route.
Teach your children to stop only at houses or apartment buildings
that are well-lit and never to enter a stranger's home.
Feed the kids before they go so they will be less likely to eat
the treats before they get home. Warn them not to eat anything before
you inspect it.
Review all appropriate trick-or-treat safety precautions,
including pedestrian/traffic safety rules.
Pin a slip of paper with the child's name; address and phone
number inside a pocket in case the child gets separated from the group.
Welcome trick-or-treaters with your porch lights and any exterior
lights on.
Patrol your street occasionally to discourage speeding motorists,
acts of malicious mischief and crimes against children.
Report any suspicious or criminal activity to your police
department immediately; you can dial 9-1-1.
Candlelit jack-o-lanterns should be kept clear of doorsteps and
landings.
Consider using flashlights instead of candles to light jack-o-
lanterns.
Keep pets away from doors so children will not become frightened.
The Carolinas Freedom Foundation is the primary community organizer of
the event, and several businesses and organizations offer support and
sponsorship. Mecklenburg County's Community Support Services
department is again a co-organizer of the annual parade. The route
begins at North Tryon and Ninth streets and ends at McDowell and Third
streets.
Another event is planned for Thursday, Nov. 11, which is Veterans Day.
A wreath-laying ceremony is scheduled for 11:45 a.m. uptown at Trade
and Tryon streets. The public is encouraged to come out and support
the commemoration.
Jim Prosser, who is a veteran and a CSS employee, said the 2010 parade
will offer on-lookers a colorful, fun, interesting and rewarding
experience. The parade is a tribute to the military women and men who
have served, and are still serving, the nation.
"Everyone should come out and enjoy the parade," Prosser said. "It's
an opportunity to show our support, honor veterans and to come
together as a community."
Past years participants included:
· High school bands
· High school Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps
· Floats
· Antique and classic cars
· Girl Scout and Boy Scout troops
· Veterans groups and organizations
· Civic and community organizations
This year, a Viking boat float is going to be a part of the parade,
Prosser said. Also, a participant for 16 years plans to don a World
War I Doughboy uniform again and join the parade for a 17th year,
Prosser said.
Visit the Carolinas Freedom Foundation website at http://www.carolinasfreedomfoundation.org
for more information about the parade. To learn more about the
services and programs offered by Mecklenburg County to veterans and
their families, visit www.MecklenburgCountyNC.gov and click on
departments, then Community Support Services, then Veterans Services
Office.
Under the proposed change, E.E. Waddell High School would remain open
and the partial International Baccalaureate (IB) magnet program now at
Harding University High School would move to Waddell. Harding would
close as a high school and its campus would become home to the K-8
language immersion magnet program now located at Smith Academy of
International Languages. An earlier proposal recommended that Smith
Academy be relocated to E.E. Waddell, which would have been closed as
a high school. The math and science program at Harding would close and
a math and science program will open at Phillip O. Berry Academy High
School.
South Mecklenburg and West Mecklenburg high schools now would not be
affected by any of the proposed changes. Previously, South Mecklenburg
was to receive some students from Waddell, while Harding was to
receive some students from West Mecklenburg.
Under the proposed changes, students at Harding would have the
opportunity to continue in partial IB, go to the math and science
program at Philip O. Berry, or to attend their assigned home school.
The new recommendation would allow Waddell students to attend their
assigned home school, which is consistent with the guiding principles
adopted by the Board of Education as part of its comprehensive review
of schools.
The public will have an opportunity to learn more about the revised
changes at a previously scheduled community forum from 6 to 8 p.m.
tonight at South Mecklenburg High School, 8900 Park Road. An
additional community forum for Harding parents and others affected by
the proposed changes at Harding has been scheduled from 6 to 8 p.m.
Wednesday, Oct. 27, in the gymnasium at Harding High School.
The revised recommendation will be presented to the Board of Education
at its regularly scheduled meeting at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 26, at the
Government Center, 600 E. Fourth St. More than 70 of the district's
178 schools would be affected by changes made as part comprehensive
review proposal.
If adopted by the Board of Education, the changes would become
effective starting with the 2011-12 school year along with other
changes under the comprehensive review. A vote by the board is
scheduled Nov. 9.
The board meeting will be televised on cable channel TV3 and will be
available for viewing online following the meeting.
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"The My-Charlotte application allows the City to accomplish two
important goals," said Jeff Stovall, the City's Chief Information
Officer. "First, it provides another level of convenience for
residents who want more options in how they access our services, and
secondly, by investing in these types of technologies, we are able to
manage the costs of providing customer service to the residents that
we serve." A traditional call made to 311 costs the City $4.91 per
call, while reports made through My-Charlotte will have little to no
incremental costs.
Among its many uses, the My-Charlotte application allows users to:
• Access services via 311 to report graffiti, potholes and other
neighborhood nuisances
• Obtain flight and parking information at Charlotte Douglas
International Airport
• Search traffic accident locations from Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police
Department
• Access a link to download the CATS mobile application for transit
information
"While we are satisfied with the application at this point, we know
there is always room for improvement, so we welcome any feedback from
the public as we examine ways to make enhancements in the future,"
Stovall said. A feedback area is available in the 311 form of the
mobile application, which is currently available in the Apple iTunes
store. A link for the application is also available at www.charmeck.org.
"To be clear, this is a review of how customers are charged for water
and sewer services they receive - not how much customers are charged,"
explained Utilities Director Barry Gullet. "It's important to hear
from customers. Any change in the methods used to charge for service
could affect residential, commercial, irrigation and other kinds of
water customers in different ways."
Last month's first set of countywide meetings sought public input
related to the existing water and sewer rate structure. This second
series introduces potential rate & fee alternatives - and impacts -
for public feedback. Details will also be posted online within the
next two weeks.
Come to a public meeting.
Fourteen community volunteers are serving on a Water/Sewer Rate Study
Stakeholders Advisory Group that will act as a sounding board during
this process. Red Oak Consulting, a division of Malcolm Pirnie, Inc.,
is the rate expert working with Utilities staff. A rate structure
recommendation will be shared with the Utilities Advisory Group, the
City Council Restructuring Government Committee and presented to City
Council for consideration in February 2011.
----------------------------------------------------
Beware of Products Claiming to Reduce Water Bill,
Provide Free Water Quality Testing
Beware of products that claim to reduce water bills:
* Charlotte-Mecklenburg Utilities encourages customer to research and
verify before purchasing products that claim to reduce water bills or
remove 'impurities.'
* Customers can find general tips and alerts at the Better Business
Bureau web site.
Beware of false or misleading information about Charlotte-
Mecklenburg's water quality:
* No City or County staff goes door-to-door to sell anything. If a
Utilities employee comes to your door for water testing purposes, he/
she should be wearing identification and driving a white, marked City
vehicle.
* Individual tastes will vary and some customers choose to install
filters for that reason. However, tap water delivered to customers
meets and often exceeds all health and safety standards and does not
require additional filtration at home. Utilities conducts more than
150,000 water quality tests annually to monitor the safety of our
community's drinking water. It's conceivable - but not often - that
private plumbing issues could impact a customer's tap water quality.
* Tap water is not acidic. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14. A reading
of 7 is neutral, with acids falling below 7 and bases above 7.
Utilities adjusts the pH of tap water to slightly above 7 to reduce
corrosion in water pipes.
* Chlorine is used in the treatment process to prevent waterborne
illness, while fluoride provides a defense against tooth decay. The
Environmental Protection Agency regulates drinking water and has set a
safety limit of 4 parts per million (proportional to $0.04 in
$10,000). In Charlotte, chlorine and fluoride levels in drinking water
are well below that safety limit at about 1 ppm.
* Water hardness is defined by the amount of trace minerals present,
such as calcium and magnesium. Water is considered 'hard' if it has
more than 125 parts per million of trace minerals. Charlotte's tap
water has an average of 34 ppm or 1.8 grains per gallon of trace
minerals, so it is considered 'soft' water.
Customers can get the facts from the EPA-required annual water quality
report that every city must produce and mail to customers. Customers
may also get information from the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at
1-800-426-4791, or visitwww.epa.gov.
The safety of our customers' drinking water is the top priority for
your clean water professionals at Charlotte-Mecklenburg Utilities.
Customers can dial 311 or 704-336-7600 if they have a water quality
concern.
"This is not tutoring - it's training that actually improves the
brain, now and for years to come," says Parker, a Ph.D. in speech
language pathology with a concentration in neuroscience. Parker has
worked in this field for nearly 30 years, including in hospital
settings.
The Brain Trainer, at 11030 Golf Links Drive, Suite 204 in Charlotte,
serves students struggling with reading and math difficulties, ADD/
ADHD, autism and Asperger's, and language and speech disorders. The
Charlotte brain training center also works with gifted students who
want to excel even more.
Adult clients include those who want to gain a competitive edge at
work or stay sharp in retirement. The Brain Trainer also serves adults
with ADD/ADHD, dyslexia, or issues following a stroke or brain injury.
Brain training is a type of mental exercise, carefully designed to
stimulate the brain and make lasting changes in cognitive abilities.
By doing new and novel tasks at a challenging level, then increasing
the complexity and intensity of the tasks, you will build new networks
in the brain. Those networks will enhance your ability to think.
Brain training benefits anyone who wants to use the brain to its
fullest potential. It builds such cognitive skills as attention,
processing speed, short and long-term memory, auditory and visual
processing, comprehension, and logic and reasoning.
Speech language pathology, also known as speech therapy, is a field
that evaluates and treats cognitive and communication disorders.
Clients at The Brain Trainer may use brain training, speech therapy,
or a combination.
Dr. Vicki Parker and her staff work with each person individually.
Following an assessment, the program created for you will be filled
with activities and tasks that feel like games. You'll gain
fascinating insights into how the mind functions and how nearly
everyone can think more quickly, clearly, and creatively. It's fun.
And it works.
The practice also offers brain-training games for purchase including
interactive activities, puzzler books and board games.
Find out more by calling 704/541-1373 or visiting http://www.thebrain-trainer.com
.
Dr. Parker led a franchised brain training center in Charlotte for
three years prior to opening her own practice, The Brain Trainer. Her
past work includes management of the rehabilitation department of a
large hospital, where she supervised a staff of fifty.
On February 21, 1981 Honeycutt entered the female victim's home in the
2500 block of Eastway Drive through the front or sliding glass door in
the living room. The victim, who was five months pregnant, had fallen
asleep on a sofa in her living room. Her husband and young daughter
were asleep upstairs. The victim was awakened by a man who had
straddled her body, and grabbed her face. He told her that if she
didn't scream, he wouldn't hurt her. The suspect forced the victim to
submit to multiple sex acts while asking her if she was pregnant. She
acknowledged that she was five months pregnant. After the assault,
the suspect rifled through the victim's purse and her husband's coat
before leaving the home. The victim went to the hospital where a
sexual assault kit was performed. The victim described her attacker
as being a W/M, approx. 5' 8" weighing approx. 120 lbs.
The sexual assault kit was examined by the Charlotte Police
Department's Crime Lab in March of 1981. The lab determined that the
kit did contain evidence of the rape. Without a suspect to compare
the evidence to, the case remained open.
In March of 2002 Det. T.A. Armstrong, of the Charlotte Mecklenburg
Cold Case Unit, reopened the case. He submitted the DNA evidence to
the CMPD Crime Lab for DNA testing.
In June of 2006 the Crime Lab generated a report indicating that the
DNA profile had been uploaded into the national CODIS database.
On August 31, 2010 a match was obtained from CODIS identifying
Honeycutt as the suspect. He is a registered sex offender who had
been arrested for Sexual Exploitation of a Minor in 2005. Honeycutt
received a 5 year sentence but was released in 2008. His registration
date in the offender file is November 25, 2008. Honeycutt was
released from a federal prison on November 24, 2008.
On August 31, 2010 detectives with the Cold Case Unit, began searching
for the victim in this case. She was located in another state.
Detectives met with the victim and reviewed the case with her. As a
result of this interview, combined with the physical evidence,
warrants were obtained for the arrest of Roger Dale Honeycutt.
Mr. Honeycutt was arrested at his home in Kannapolis without incident
on Monday, October 18, 2010. He's been charged with: 2nd Degree Rape,
2nd Degree Sex Offense, and 1st Degree Burglary. Mr. Honeycutt is
currently in the custody of the Mecklenburg County Sheriff's Office.
The CMPD Sexual Assault Cold Case Unit has investigated 661 cases
since its inception in 2006 and has solved 98 cases. There have been
20 convictions resulting in total sentences of over 800 years.
The CMPD Sexual Assault Cold Case Unit would like to thank the
Cabarrus County Sheriff's Office, Federal Probation and Parole and
especially the CMPD Crime Lab-DNA Section for their assistance with
this case.
"Video games are growing in popularity, with game enthusiasts across
all generations embracing them as part of workout routines, family
nights and personal entertainment," said Mark Achler, senior vice
president of new business, redbox. "Charlotte consumers will now have
convenient, affordable access to the latest games at about 245 redbox
locations throughout the market during our test."
Halo®: Reach (Xbox 360), NBA 2K11 (Xbox 360 and PLAYSTATION 3), New
Carnival Games (Wii) and Dead Rising® 2 (Xbox 360 and PLAYSTATION 3)
are among the video game titles now available. The number of video
game titles and copies will vary by kiosk and location with new games
being added each week. Local residents can visit www.redbox.com/games
to see a current list of games offered by redbox. Then, once at the
kiosk, users access the touch screen display to determine which titles
and platforms are available at that particular location.
Redbox consumers can rent games at approximately 245 convenient
locations in the greater Charlotte-area, including select Harris
Teeter, Walmart and Walgreens stores, among others.
About Redbox
Redbox Automated Retail, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Coinstar,
Inc. (NASDAQ: CSTR), offers new release DVD and Blu-ray Disc rentals
through its network of conveniently located, self-service kiosks.
Redbox has rented more than one billion movies and is available at
more than 24,000 locations nationwide, including select McDonald's
restaurants, leading grocery, drug and convenience stores, select
Walmart locations and Walgreens locations in select markets. For more
information, visit www.redbox.com.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide Unit Detectives are
conducting a homicide investigation at a residence in the 1200 block
of Effingham Road in the Metro Division. The incident was reported at
11:57 a.m., on Thursday, August 12, 2010. The victim has yet to be
positively identified; once she has been identified and her family
notified of her death, her name will be released.
Metro Division officers responded to a call for service in reference
to an unconscious female who was found lying on the floor inside the
above residence. The Charlotte Fire Department arrived on the scene
and located the victim lying on the floor suffering from apparent
bodily trauma; she was pronounced deceased on scene. Metro Division
officers arrived and cordoned off the crime scene. Based upon initial
statements from neighbors, screams were heard coming from inside the
residence and that when the screams stopped, a witness went inside the
house to check on the victim. This witness called 911 to report the
apparent assault. Detectives with the Homicide Unit and the Gang Unit
are actively following up on leads as to the identity of the suspect.
Several witnesses have been transported to police headquarters to give
statements.
Crime Scene Search responded to the scene collect physical evidence.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call 704-432-
TIPS and speak directly to a Homicide Unit Detective. Detective
Whitworth is the lead detective assigned to the case. In addition,
you may also call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.
Mecklenburg County officials recently honored Concepcion and five
other County employees who have demonstrated their commitment to the
customer service standards valued in the workplace.
Concepcion is a four-year employee of the County, whose service at DSS
includes being an interpreter for clients who do not speak English.
Peers who nominated Concepcion for the award praised her determination
and her compassion. The recognition included a $600 award from The
Employers Association, presented by Kenny Colbert, company president.
Colbert said it's the sixth year that the human resources consulting
company has sponsored the award.
Thank you so much," Concepcion said in remarks after County Manager
Harry L. Jones Sr. presented her with the award in front of a crowd of
co-workers on Employee Appreciation Day. "Everybody here deserves it,"
she said. "With the economy and the way that things are, everybody is
doing their hundred percent, and I'm just another person like you
doing the same thing for everyone that needs our help."
Following is a list of the County's customer service standards and the
employees who were honored as Customer Service Heroes:
· Communication – Jeff Griffin, Land Use & Environmental
Services
· Courtesy & Respect – Marsha Williams, Sheriff's Office
· Ethics – Jennifer Williams, Sheriff's Office
· Service Quality – Tara Williamson, Social Services
· Timeliness – Jacqui Wolochwianski, Community Support Services
View photos of the recognition and Mecklenburg County Employee
Appreciation Day at the County's website.
As part of its ongoing commitment to small businesses, Bank of America today announced that it would hire over 1,000 small business bankers by early 2012.
Bank of America will expand its small business presence by hiring small business bankers in select banking centers in Dallas, Los Angeles, Baltimore and Washington, D.C., beginning in the fourth quarter of 2010. Hiring will continue in select locations across the country throughout 2011.
Bank of America small business bankers will provide more personalized attention to small business owners by spending time with them at their place of business and learning more about what their companies do. Customers will have convenient access to local small business expertise and a dedicated resource who understands their business. Small business bankers will consult with small business owners and assess their companies' deposit, credit and cash management needs.
"As one of the nation's largest financial services providers, Bank of America is actively engaged in fostering the growth of small business," said Joe Price, Consumer and Small Business Banking executive for Bank of America. "With the creation of this role, we are responding directly to what our customers have asked for - local small business experts who provide small businesses with the financial solutions necessary to sustain and grow their business."
In the first half of 2010, Bank of America has provided $45.4 billion in credit to small and medium-sized companies and is expected to meet or exceed its pledge to increase lending to those businesses by $5 billion in 2010. In addition, Bank of America is the nation's largest investor into Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), with more than $1 billion in loans and investments to 120 CDFIs in 37 states.
Bank of America also is increasing its spending with small, medium-sized and diverse businesses through a commitment to purchase $10 billion in products and services from those suppliers over the next five years. Other efforts to help small businesses include recent improvements to the bank's 2 million small business credit card accounts, such as no rate increases on existing balances, and enhancements to the Advisor AllianceTM retirement plan platform, which serves more than 900,000 people from more than 40,000 businesses.
Bank of America
Bank of America is one of the world's largest financial institutions, serving individual consumers, small- and middle-market businesses and large corporations with a full range of banking, investing, asset management and other financial and risk management products and services. The company provides unmatched convenience in the United States, serving approximately 57 million consumer and small business relationships with 5,900 retail banking offices, more than 18,000 ATMs and award-winning online banking with 29 million active users. Bank of America is among the world's leading wealth management companies and is a global leader in corporate and investment banking and trading across a broad range of asset classes serving corporations, governments, institutions and individuals around the world. Bank of America offers industry-leading support to more than 4 million small business owners through a suite of innovative, easy-to-use online products and services. The company serves clients through operations in more than 40 countries. Bank of America Corporation stock (NYSE: BAC) is a component of the Dow Jones Industrial Average and is listed on the New York Stock Exchange.
In its third season, "My First Sale" captures the trials, stress and
successes that first-time home sellers experience prepping for the
sale: pricing, negotiating and ultimately selling their first home.
This is a chance for first-time home sellers within a 60-minute drive
of Charlotte to have this once-in-a-lifetime experience captured on
video. Candidates who are chosen for the show will receive a DVD of
the episode upon its airing. It's also a great opportunity for a real
estate agent to gain exposure through a national television show.
Details and applications to be considered for the show are at
http://charlotteusa.com/Film/film_event_detail.asp?PressRelease_cd=3679.
The presidential election of 2008 was the first time more people voted
early than on Election Day in Mecklenburg County. "Voters truly
appreciate the option of having an extended voting period rather than
a single day," Dickerson says. "It also helps us report results sooner
on election night."
The Board of Elections will use social media to help direct voters to
early voting locations with the shortest lines. The BOE is partnering
with the County's Public Service and Information Department to post
real-time reports weekdays throughout the early voting period. Voters
planning to use the early option are encouraged to follow @MeckCounty
and watch for Twitter hashtag #earlyvote. Those who prefer Facebook
should friendMecklenburg County. Workers at each early voting location
will report regularly on high or low traffic patterns in order to help
direct people to places with the shortest lines.
The list of early voting locations and hours along with other details
about early voting, candidates, precinct locations and much more can
be found at www.meckboe.org.
Wafaa Bilal's recreations of his performance art pieces "...And
Counting" and "Domestic Tension" opened Thursday, Oct. 14, in the Van
Every Gallery of the Belk Visual Arts Center.
An exhibition by North Carolina native Darren Goins titled "Casual
Language: A Mixed Emoticon" also opened Thursday evening in the Smith
Gallery.
Iraqi-born Wafaa Bilal has exhibited world-wide, and lectured
extensively to inform audiences of the importance of peaceful conflict
resolution in his home country. His 2007 installation "Domestic
Tension" placed him on the receiving end of a paintball gun that was
operable online. His website received more than 80 million hits, and
he was shot at more than 65,000 times. Newsweek magazine called the
project "breathtaking." The Chicago Tribune named Bilal its 2007
"Artist of the Year," and called the month-long piece "one of the
sharpest works of political art to be seen in a long time."
Bilal's exhibition ". . . And Counting" is an ongoing project in which
the artist is having tens of thousands of dots tattooed onto a map of
Iraq on his back. The dots represent the accumulated war casualties
since 2003, with American deaths in black ink and Iraqi deaths in
green UV ink-only visible underneath a black light.
Davidson is a highly selective independent liberal arts college for
1,800 students located 20 minutes north of Charlotte in Davidson, N.C.
Since its establishment in 1837 by Presbyterians, the college has
graduated 23 Rhodes Scholars and is consistently regarded as one of
the top liberal arts colleges in the country. Through The Davidson
Trust, the college became the first liberal arts institution in the
nation to replace loans with grants in all financial aid packages,
giving all students the opportunity to graduate debt-free. Davidson
competes in NCAA athletics at the Division I level, and a longstanding
Honor Code is central to student life at the college.
The tournament will feature some of the best amateur male and female
boxers from North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia,
Georgia and Tennessee. Boxers will compete competing in three
categories: Youth (ages 8-14); Senior youth/Novice (ages 15-16); and
Open (ages 17 and older).
Prior to the event, Sugaw Creek will sponsor the 2010 Queen City Gang
Awareness and Resource Fair from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. The fair will include
display tables providing information on activities and resources
available to youth in the community. In addition, there will be a food
and clothing drive. Participants are asked to bring nonperishable food
or new or gently used clothing such as gloves, scarves, coats, hats or
backpacks.
The Charlotte Boxing Academy is a nonprofit organization created in a
partnership with Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation and the Police
Athletic League. This tournament is sanctioned by USA Boxing Inc.,
the national governing body for amateur boxing in the United States.
For more information, contact Al Simpson: 704-241-0314.
Beginning today, Charlotteans are invited to join the quest for its
"City's Best" by visiting www.citysbest.com or downloading City's Best
applications for iPhone and Android to vote for their favorite
businesses within a variety of food, entertainment and lifestyle
categories. Joining Charlotte, the other metro-markets selected for
AOL's 2010 City's Best launch include: Atlanta, Austin, Baltimore,
Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, Dallas, Denver, Detroit, Houston, Las
Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix,
San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, St. Louis, Tampa Bay, Twin Cities
and Washington, DC.
LET THE VOTING BEGIN FOR YOUR CITY'S BEST.!:
Voting Period (October 13 - November 30): City's Best voting kicks-
off today, October 13, and will run through November 30. Individuals
will "vote" for their favorite spots from a list of top 10 businesses
in specific categories. A winner will be determined for each of the
categories in Charlotte and announced on December 14. Categories were
selected based on local popularity and general public interest to
ensure participation from the greatest number of people. Categories
include:
. After Work
. Burgers
. Cheap Eats
. Chinese Restaurant
. Dessert
. Dive Bar
. Family Friendly Restaurant
. Hotel
. Live Music
. Movie Theater
. Pizza
. Places to Get Dumped
. Romantic Restaurant
. Salon
. Seafood
. Sports Bar
. Women's Clothing/Boutique
"City's Best is a unique opportunity for Charlotte residents to engage
in their community and be a part of recognizing outstanding local
businesses for the exceptional services they provide," said Natalie
McNeal, AOL Southeast Regional Editor. "City's Best is where
neighbors and experts find and share what is best in their city. And
who else would be better suited to decide Charlotte's best food,
entertainment and lifestyle venues than Charlotteans and local experts
who experience the quality of these businesses every day."
Resources & Tools for the Businesses Selected in Each Category
Throughout the voting program, the businesses selected in each
category will be featured on www.citysbest.com. AOL has developed a
number of resources and tools for the businesses to use to promote
their business, generate voting and garner visibility. Tools include
a downloadable City's Best logo, tips and ideas to help businesses
encourage their fans and customers to vote online or via their mobile
phone. Additionally, the ubiquitous City's Best window stickers are
back. Throughout its history, City's Best has distributed over 50,000
window stickers to local businesses across the country. The 2010
stickers include QR codes which will allow people to use their smart
phones to scan the sticker and then easily vote for the business in
real time.
Local businesses* in Charlotte were chosen based on overall
reputation. City's Best editors and writers selected the businesses
based on editorial insight and local opinion of Charlotteans. The
selection process is fueled by City's Best proposition of bringing
experts and neighbors together to find and share the best in Charlotte.
"Simply put, City's Best is the easiest way to find and engage with
what's best in our cities," said Jon Brod, President of AOL Ventures,
Local and Mapping. "Launching City's Best is an important step in AOL
Local's goal of providing the highest quality, most relevant and most
accessible local information, from hyper-local to major-metro
markets. We are tapping into professional editors and writers, in
addition to community members through their participation in the
voting process to find and share the best in Charlotte."
*A list of local businesses nominated within each category is
available upon request.
About AOL
AOL Inc. (NYSE: AOL) is a leading global Web services company with an
extensive suite of brands and offerings and a substantial worldwide
audience. AOL's business spans online content, products and services
that the company offers to consumers, publishers and advertisers. AOL
is focused on attracting and engaging consumers and providing valuable
online advertising services on both AOL's owned and operated
properties and third-party websites. In addition, AOL operates one of
the largest Internet subscription access services in the United
States, which serves as a valuable distribution channel for AOL's
consumer offerings.
The advisory was issued today after an unknown amount of sewage
discharged from a sanitary sewer manhole. The sewage flowed into a
stream at 8746 Little Brim Lane and then into Paw Creek Cove on Lake
Wylie. The sewage discharge was discovered during the morning of
October 12, 2010. The overflow was caused by a grease blockage in the
sanitary sewer line. Within a few hours, the problem was repaired and
the discharge stopped. The sewer line is privately owned and
maintained by West Bloomfield Acres Mobile Home Park.
Lake water samples were collected today by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Storm
Water Services staff. Sampling will continue until levels of fecal
coliform bacteria fall below 200-colonies/100 ml, which is the level
determined to be safe for swimming. When bacteria counts reach this
level, the no swimming advisory will be lifted.
About Wingate University
Founded in 1896, Wingate University is a private comprehensive
University with more than 2,300 students on campuses in Wingate and
Matthews, North Carolina. The University offers 32 undergraduate
majors, 36 minors and career concentrations, numerous pre-professional
programs, graduate degrees in business, accounting, physician
assistant studies, sport administration, and doctorates in pharmacy
and education. Wingate students gain the tools and support they need
to excel in academics and apply that learning toward an extraordinary
career and life. The campus community offers in-class learning,
out-of-class experiences, strong mentors, a competitive yet caring
environment and rewarding community service opportunities for a
complete educational experience.
The Oct. 11 meeting focused on further refinement of the proposal
first brought forward by staff Sept. 28, as well as a review of the
financial and human-resources aspects of the changes. More than 70 of
the district's 178 schools will be affected by the proposal if it is
adopted by the Board. A vote is scheduled Nov. 9.
A spreadsheet presented to the Board during the Oct. 11 meeting showed
an initial estimate of potential savings and costs associated with the
proposal, as well as possible staffing implications. In all, the staff
estimated that the changes would save CMS about $3.3 million in the
first year, with that savings rising to more than $6 million the
second year.
"These are preliminary numbers – we will continue to work on them,"
Superintendent Peter C. Gorman told the Board.
The current proposal would provide targeted assistance to nearly 30
schools to improve school quality and public perception, and also to
help schools deal with mobility issues (a very transient student
population). Some of the 30 schools are academically challenged.
Others are perceived as academically challenged by families who opt
out of them, despite significant progress in recent years. Still
others have mobility issues and academic challenges.
The proposal would also adjust boundaries for two elementary schools
and a middle school. It would close eight schools, consolidate three
others and relocate three more. One school would be consolidated and
relocated and 17 others would have new or expanded programs that would
add students and staff.
New to the list of schools proposed for closing was Lincoln Heights
Elementary. Staff suggested closing Lincoln Heights and using its
building for Villa Heights, a small and highly effective magnet
program. The staff also added a third school, Bruns Avenue Elementary,
to a list of schools that would serve pre-kindergarten through eighth
grade.
Another refinement would affect Phillip O. Berry and Harding
University by closing the math and science magnet program at Harding
(the school would retain its International Baccaulaureate program) and
opening a new one at Phillip O. Berry. The staff also proposed moving
Morgan School, which serves exceptional children, to the site now
occupied by Oakhurst Elementary and closing that school.
A community forum on changes proposed for schools in the West
Charlotte area will be held Oct. 12 at the Government Center from 6
p.m. to 8 p.m.
Initial unemployment claims also declined slightly from July to
August, down a dramatic 21 percent from a year ago, according to the
Charlotte Regional Partnership's August By the Numbers at http://www.charlotteusa.com/documents/charlotteusa_by_the_numbers_9-30-2009.pdf
Total taxable sales reported throughout the region are 10 percent
higher, or nearly $240 million more, than sales reported a year ago.
These are all indicators that Charlotte USA's economy is heading in
the right direction.
Nationally, the U.S. Consumer Confidence Index, which improved
slightly in August, lost ground in September. The Conference Board
explained that the pull-back was most likely due to less favorable
business and labor market conditions, in addition to a more
pessimistic short-term outlook. The Federal Reserve's Fifth District
Survey of Manufacturing Activity that includes our region slowed in
September as shipments and employment declined. Yet, despite the
decline, companies surveyed were more optimistic about their future
prospects, as they anticipate a rapid increase in shipments, new
orders, backlog of orders and the average workweek in the months ahead.
The Charlotte Regional Partnership's monthly By the Numbers is the
only report of its kind. Easy-to-read charts not only compare
employment numbers in the current and prior years for each of our 16
counties, the report breaks down employment changes by industry. It
compares the Charlotte region with the other six partnership areas in
North Carolina and other major Southeast regions. Charts show at a
glance year-to-year comparisons of the national unemployment rate,
consumer confidence and home sales indices. The report also summarizes
Charlotte USA locations, expansions, closings and layoffs for each
month fiscal year-to-date. And there are extras, such as taxable sales
within the region.
This has been a record-breaking campaign for the DSAC Buddy Walk. To
date, we have 110 teams registered and raised over $92,000 online.
Online and offline donations are expected to exceed $100,000 by the
end of the event, which will be attended by 1500 members of the
Charlotte community. By comparison, the 2009 Buddy Walk was attended
by over 1200 people and raised more than $60,000.
Registration, team check-in and festivities begin at 2:00 pm with the
walk beginning at 4:00pm.
Family entertainment includes an interactive DJ, moon bounces, a
kiddie train, dance performances, an arts & crafts tent, music therapy
demonstrations, a Special Olympics team bocce demonstration, a magic
show, a vendor fair and much more! There will be food and drinks as
well as a fantastic assortment of prizes. Registration is available
online through October 6 as well as at the event. A $10 adult and $5
child donation is suggested and includes a t-shirt, food and drink,
and access to all activities. The event concludes at 6:00pm.
Over 85% of all money raised stays in the local community to help
serve more than 500 families
in the Charlotte area in ways such as providing educational symposia,
scholarships for families
and self-advocates to attend the National Down Syndrome Convention,
providing new parent
packets to doctors and hospitals, and supporting families and
individuals who have been affected
by Down syndrome.
By promoting awareness and acceptance of people with Down syndrome,
the DSAC hopes to
break down many of the existing stereotypes about the abilities of
people with this genetic
condition and show that they are more like their non-disabled peers
than they are different. All
funds raised through the Buddy Walk will benefit local Down syndrome
support organizations
and the National Down Syndrome Society's education, research and
advocacy efforts.
Additional information about the Buddy Walk can be found at http://dsac.kintera.org/buddywalk
.
For more information, please contact Steve Leyton at buddywalk@dsacnc.org
or (704) 609-6154
The Continuum of Care Workgroup of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Homeless
Services Network is the organization that receives and reviews
applications locally. The group will meet at 1 p.m. on Thursday, Oct.
14, to discuss the funding opportunity and answer questions. The
public meeting will be held at Mecklenburg County Area Mental Health,
429 Billingsley Road, in Charlotte. Application information will be
available at the meeting.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg region received $3,541,881 in fiscal year
2010 for services to help house the homeless. An additional $250,000
has been made available over the next 5 years for new projects that
will provide permanent housing for the chronically homeless. Eligible
activities for this added funding include operating expenses and
leasing subsidies.
"Recent homeless counts indicate there are an estimated 6,500 homeless
persons in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg community, with about 10 percent
who are considered chronically homeless," Peter Safir, homeless
services director, said. "In order to continue to help these folks in
our community, funding such as this is vitally important," he said.
Agencies currently funded by HUD, and therefore eligible to apply for
renewal funding, include the Salvation Army, Mecklenburg County, Hope
Haven, Inc., Community Link (Programs of Travelers Aid), and St.
Peter's Homes.
Renewal applications and new proposals for the bonus funding must be
submitted to the Continuum of Care workgroup by 5 p.m. on Thursday,
Oct. 28, 2010. The drop-off site address is Mecklenburg County Area
Mental Health, 429 Billingsley Road, in Charlotte .
The average sales price for September 2010 ($203,799) was up 3.6
percent over the September 2009 average sales price ($196,760), but
was down 9.5 percent over the August 2010 average sales price of
$225,156. The average listing price of homes sold in September 2010
($231,678) was up 5.3 percent compared to the September 2009 average
listing price of $219,925, and was down 8.9 percent over last month's
average listing price of $254,239.
The residential pending contracts figure for September 2010 (1,658)
was down 24.6 percent compared to September 2009 (2,199), and was down
4.9 percent over last month (August 2010) when pending contracts
totaled 1,743.
New residential listings in September 2010 totaled 4,043. The average
number of days a property was on the market from the time it was
listed until it closed (list to close) was 146.9, which is 4.5 days
less than last month. The average number of days a property was on
the market (days on market), excluding the days the property was off
the market or pending, was 112.2 days, or 5.5 days less than last month.
In July 2010, CMLS underwent a system conversion. CMLS staff has done
everything possible to ensure the accuracy of the September 2010
statistics; however, as with any new system, we may discover very
slight anomalies that will require adjustments and corrections over
time.
For more residential-housing market statistics, visit the
association's website at www.CarolinaHome.com and click on "Community
Data." For an interview with Association/CMLS President Lyn Kessie,
please contact Kim Walker.
The Charlotte Regional Realtor® Association is a trade association
that leads, educates and equips members to be productive. It provides
more than 7,400 Realtor® members with the resources and services
needed to conduct ethical, professional, successful and profitable
businesses. The association is dedicated to being the region's primary
resource for residential real estate information. The association
operates the Carolina Multiple Listing Services, Inc. (CMLS), which
has approximately 8,100 Subscribers and is the private cooperative
Realtors® use for access to tens of thousands of residential listings
in a 10-county service area, including the high-growth Charlotte area,
as well as listings outside this service area.
Contestants are invited to SouthPark to walk for a panel of judges,
including local media personality Bridgette Wright, publisher
ofCharlotte Style Magazine and Kimberlye Worth, public relations
director for Barbizon Modeling & Entertainment Center-Carolinas.The
panel will select 30 child models to receive the ultimate Model for a
Day package, including a custom fitting for his/her runway look and
the opportunity to walk in the 12:30 p.m. Simon Fashion Now show on
Saturday, October 23.
Each of the 30 children selected to walk in the Simon Fashion Now
children's show will receive an exclusive Simon Fashion Now Kidgits
gift bag and will have their name announced on SouthPark's Facebook
and Twitter pages!
Representatives from Barbizon will be at SouthPark from 10:00 AM –
9:00 PM on October 9 to meet with shoppers about modeling
opportunities and answer questions about program offerings.
WHEN: Saturday, October 9, 2010
Registration and runway contest will be held from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00
p.m., or after the first 100 eligible entries are received
WHERE: SouthPark
Circle Court
MORE INFO: See entry form at check-in for complete rules
and regulations. Those wishing to review the complete rules and
regulations prior to October 9 may do so a Simon Guest Services.
Children wishing to compete must be members of the Simon Kidgits Club.
Those who are interested, but who are not yet members may sign up
online at www.simonkidgitsclub.com or at Guest Services through
October 9. Membership includes a Kidgits Club membership card and T-
shirt, scheduled entertainment and activities for families, a Birthday
Club (including birthday card and gift redemption certificate), unique
programs and offers, discounts, and a quarterly newsletter.
SouthPark celebrates dynamic fall fashion and trends with Simon
Fashion Now™ presented by Land Rover Charlotte. Simon Fashion Now is a
series of energetic fashion shows and interactive entertainment
designed and presented by Simon Property Group, Inc. (NYSE:SPG), the
country's largest owner, developer and manager of high quality retail
real estate.
The concept is a vibrant mix of accessible, luxurious and affordable
style that affords shoppers the ability to purchase straight from the
runway. Each event offers advice and insight into the latest cosmetic
trends, must-have accessories, and, of course, fashionable flair
available at select Simon properties. This event is open to everyone
and offers dynamic free entertainment.
Visit the Simon Property Group website at www.simon.com. Simon Fashion
Now is also on Facebook – fashionistas looking for the latest style
news, contests, photos and event information for each stop can visit www.facebook.com/SimonFashionNow
.
About Barbizon Modeling & Entertainment Center-Carolinas
Barbizon Modeling & Entertainment Center-Carolinas is a proud
recipient of the Prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from IMTA.
Since 1939, Barbizon has trained thousands in modeling, acting and
self- improvement.
All of Barbizon's Programs offer the highest quality of instruction.
Subjects include: Runway Technique, Print Work, Skin Care & Makeup,
Projecting Self Confidence, On Camera Photo Shoot, Personality
Development, Speech & Voice Projection, Interview Skills, Acting
Workshops, Dress to Succeed, Model Posture, Nutrition & Exercise, Hair
& Nail Care, Developing Model Manners and much, much more!!
Barbizon is also proud to announce its annual Scholarship
opportunity. We give you an opportunity of a lifetime to win a free 4-
year College Scholarship up to $100,000 to the school of your choice.
One winner is randomly chosen every 12 months.
About Simon Fashion Now™
The concept of Simon Fashion Now was conceived through grand opening
events at properties like The Galleria in Houston, TX, The Forum Shops
at Caesars in Las Vegas, NV and The Domain in Austin, TX. Through the
success of these events, which became fashion focused in 2003, Simon
decided to take the events national and Simon Fashion Now was
introduced. The contemporary program was designed to make the runway
relevant for the everyday fashionista. Spring 2010 stops included The
Westchester in White Plains, NY; La Plaza Mall in McAllen, TX; The
Fashion Mall at Keystone in Indianapolis, IN; Lenox Square in Atlanta,
GA; The Domain in Austin, TX and The Galleria in Houston, TX.
About Simon Property Group
Simon Property Group, Inc. is an S&P 500 company and the largest real
estate company in the U.S. The Company currently owns or has an
interest in 393 retail real estate properties comprising 263 million
square feet of gross leasable area in North America, Europe and Asia.
Simon Property Group is headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana and
employs more than 5,000 people worldwide. The Company's common stock
is publicly traded on the NYSE under the symbol SPG. For further
information, visit the Simon Property Group website at www.simon.com.