Parents fighting to keep Teacher Assistants

Submitted by Dedrick Russell on Friday, May 10th, 6:21 pm

CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV)- Some Providence Spring Elementary school parents are on a mission. They have started a petition to keep Teacher Assistants (TA's) on the job.

NC Governor's budget includes slashing 3,000 of them to make ends meet. In Charlotte - Mecklenburg school district (CMS) about 400 TA's could be on the chopping block.

"I think there would be a giant hole." CMS parent Julie Knafelz said.

Knafelz signed the petition. She says TA's have played a major role in her son's education. He has special needs and his teacher assistant keeps him on track.

"That person helps them when the teacher is helping other students," the parent said. "Helping with reading groups, helping with math."

Parent Julie Cho came up with the idea of a petition. She wants to save all Teacher Assistants especially the 15 at Providence Spring Elementary.

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CMS Police Chief retires while on administrative leave, officials say

Submitted by John Cominsky on Friday, May 10th, 5:23 pm

CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV)- Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Police Chief Bud Cesena has chosen to retire while on administrative leave, effective immediately.

The former Chief was placed on administrative leave Wednesday, pending an internal investigation, a CMS spokesperson told WBTV Thursday.

Cesena, who has held the title of CMS Police Chief since late 2006, was put on leave as the result of a personnel matter. Officials told WBTV that school policy prevents them from discussing the matter publicly.

Deputy Chief Randy Hagler was appointed Interim Police Chief during Cesena's leave, CMS said.

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Charlotte ranks in Top 25 Mom-Friendly Dining Cities

Submitted by WBTV Web Staff

Friday, May 10th, 2013, 2:09pm

Charlotte ranks in Top 25 Mom-Friendly Dining Cities

CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV)- Charlotte ranks in the top 10 of Mom-friendly dining cities, according to a new ranking by OpenTable.

The online restaurant reservation company compiled the list ahead of Mother's Day: Top 25 Mom-Friendly Dining Cities in the U.S.

"Whether it's a meal with the kids in tow, a romantic dinner with a spouse, or a night out with the girls, each of these cities has a diverse dining scene to satisfy mom's appetite for food and fun," said Caroline Potter, Chief Dining Officer of OpenTable. "And, it's very clear from the number of folks dining out locally on Mother's Day that area restaurants have mastered the art of pampering mothers and pleasing their palates."

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Gridiron mom gives back to the community

Submitted by WBTV Web Staff

Friday, May 10th, 2013, 1:19pm

CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV)- Mother's Day is this weekend. It's a time we celebrate mothers not just for their love and nurturing, but their selfless acts and their ability to give to others.

One local celebrity mom takes on vital issues and still finds time to balance the most difficult job of all: parenting.

When you first meet Kelly Davis, you feel as if you've known her for year.

This NFL wife is energetic, bold, and warm. Kelly is the wife of Carolina linebacker Thomas Davis.

More than a football wife, Kelly achieved a success story of her own.

"I'm going to do something in my community if I have the free time," said Kelly.

"I feel like I can just sit around and not help. That's what I'm supposed to be doing."

Her giving back starts at home.

"She'll substitute for our class," says Kelly's older daughter Skyye.

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52 Weeks of Giving

Submitted by Donna Lepre on Friday, May 10th, 9:23 am

For select nonprofit charities, it will be like Christmas, whether it comes in May, August, or December.

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Yard Sale to benefit the homeless

Submitted by Joe Hester, Community News Producer

Friday, May 10th, 2013, 8:00am

The Community Housing Resource Center is holding a fundraising Yard Sale this weekend.

Yard Sale for a Cause is raising money by selling gently used and new clothes, household items, and furniture, among other things.

Hungry patrons can also purchase chicken and fish dinners offered by the Center.

All proceeds go to the Community Housing Resource Center, a nonprofit organization that provides emergency, temporary, and permanent housing for working homeless families and low-moderate income families.

Bargain hunters can shop to their delight in the parking lot at 5501 Executive Center Drive in Charlotte, Saturday May 11, beginning at 8 a.m.

For more information on the Yard Sale, call 704-763-2897.

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5k race funds social services

Submitted by Joe Hester, Community News Producer

Friday, May 10th, 2013, 8:00am

Jewish Family Services is hosting its third annual fundraising 5k run/walk and 1 mile fun run this weekend.

The 2013 Friends 5k Run takes a challenging chip-timed loop around lovely Landsdowne.

Those in attendance can view Items from an online auction which concludes later in the day.

An activity fun zone is available for the kids to bounce and play before and after the race.

All proceeds from the event directly benefit Jewish Family Services, which helps members of the community with issues relating to aging, parenting, illness, job loss, disability and poverty, regardless of age, religion or socio-economic background.

Runners are to meet at Shalom Park, located at 5007 Providence Road in Charlotte, Sunday May 12, at 8 a.m.

The cost of registration ranges between $12 and $35.

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