DL Weekend Update: Stories behind the stories - 8/20/22
Did ya’ll enjoy the cooler temps this week??!! I love summer and I love heat. It was a lil’ chilly earlier this week. Overall, it’s been enjoyable. Long as I don’t have to put on sleeves or closed toed shoes (unless I want to), I’m good!
Also this week, there’s been no shortage of news. Here’s what’s been happening behind the stories…
Without a doubt, this is one of the week’s hottest stories. And if you’re wondering why Davidson Local hasn’t published much about it, I’m here to share why.
We found out on Wednesday about the four game suspension that had been issued to North Davidson High School head football coach Brian Flynn. As is the case in small communities, there was much speculation regarding why.
Early Thursday morning, I began contacting local and state administrators regarding the news. I called NDHS and left a voicemail for athletic director Mark Hayes. I also emailed him. I reached out to a colleague at Davidson County Schools who forwarded my email to Tabitha Broadway, executive director of communications and strategic planning. I emailed Mike Lawson, director of athletics for DCS. Called and left him a voicemail, too.
Since I had been told the North Carolina High School Athletic Association handed down the suspension, I emailed James Alverson, assistant commissioner media relations, special events and publications. Later called and left him a voicemail.
Having waited a couple of hours, I called back to NDHS and was able to speak with Hayes. He shared the reason for suspension was a personnel matter so he couldn’t share details. He also noted the suspension was a joint effort between DCS and the NCHSAA.
When I inquired if Flynn is prohibited from having contact with players and attending practices, Hayes said I should speak with Lawson. I’ve yet to hear back from Lawson, Broadway or Alverson.
I can’t say I’m surprised. We receive little to no correspondence from DCS although we’ve asked for it multiple times. One would think they would welcome a FREE, news source with open arms. However, that’s not the case. Maybe things will change at some point.
Due to us being a small staff, we weren’t able to cover the press conference on Thursday, August 18 regarding the arrest of Felecia Biddix. She was arrested on a warrant for arrest for Felony Obstruction of Justice for actions she was involved in as a Lexington Police officer. This arrest was made by the Davidson County Sheriff’s Office in consultation with the District Attorney’s Office. Biddix was released under a $5,000 unsecured bond.
Chief Robby Rummage stated “The fact that an investigation into one of our officers reveals evidence of a criminal act and a substantial breach of the Lexington Police Department Core Values is extremely disappointing. The Lexington Police Department remains committed to excellence in professional policing. We will stand firm in this commitment including the way we respond to these avoidable circumstances.”
Davidson Local will continue to follow this developing story.
Lexington celebrates new turf field and track
If you love blue, orange and yellow jackets then you’ll be thrilled to see the new field and track at Philpott Memorial Stadium. There’s no shortage of the colors on the field. The stadium now boasts an olympic style track that is rubber. And blue.
Hundreds turned out on Wednesday to celebrate the renovations and usher in a new era for the athletic program at LSHS. Having spent many days in the stadium rehearsing when I was in band, on the track for practice or attending games, I knew shade would be non-existent. So, if you see any shadows in the pictures that were posted, it’s quite possible my handy umbrella created them.
Lexington City Schools Superintendent Dr. Anitra Wells (left) and LCS Board of Education Chairman Darrick Horton hold scissors, together, as they prepare to cut the ribbon signifying LSHS’ new field and track is ready to be utilized. {Kassaundra Shanette Lockhart/Davidson Local}
Businesses: Coming and Going
Our business writer, the great Vikki Broughton-Hodges, has been on top of all the latest happenings. This week she’s highlighted House of Cars and Rocket’s Hideout - both specializing in collectibles. She’s shared information about the relocation of Pig City Books and the Construction Material Habitat ReStore. InBloom Naturals was sold and is now Apotheca. Bristle + Pine closed at the end of July.
Got some business info? Email us at info@davidsonlocal.com.
Sedley Abercrombie, co-owner of Pig City Books, has moved the bookstore to 16 Court Square in uptown Lexington for more space for the growing business. {Vikki Broughton Hodges/Davidson Local}
Lights, Camera, Action: Join us for the second free Black Butterfly Film and a fashion show!
Saturday, August 20 will be the second installment of the Black Butterfly Networks FREE summer film series. For those who attended the first event…expect a slightly different feel for the showing of Mahogany.
Plot: Tracy (Diana Ross), an aspiring designer from the slums of Chicago, puts herself through fashion school in the hopes of becoming one of the world's top designers. Her ambition leads her to Rome spurring a choice between the man she loves (Billy Dee Williams) or her newfound success.
On August 20, 2022 at Bull City Ciderworks facilities room
Gates open at 6 p.m. No blankets or chairs needed.
The dance party begins at 6:30 p.m. Let off some steam, bust your favorite move or let's make up a new one!
The Fashion Runway Competition will begin at 8 p.m.
Come runway ready and decked out! Then strut it on the runway and release your inner super model for a chance to win "King or Queen for a Day" with a pampering Spa Package ($300 value) at a fabulous spa. Entry fee for Runway Walk is $15. (Register to walk or get more information by emailing Clarence Hargrave at eventhorizonevents@gmail.com.com)
The movie will begin playing at sunset.
Between dancing, while waiting for the Runway Walk and the sun to set and for the movie to begin, enjoy mingling at the Bull City Cider Bar (they have water, sodas, domestic beer and wine too!).
Also, have dinner with one of the food vendors featuring a variety of fresh, delicious food, including freshly popped popcorn and snacks.
Don’t Pass Up on Our Press Pass Dinner- August 27 (Space is limited)
We’re excited to introduce our first, fast and funny evening of culture, food and conversation with chef Michael Morefield @ Roots on Main in Lexington. Press Pass dinners are a new way to support local news. Expect a local spin on bread, greens and entrees.
