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Charlotte Parents Arrested for “Black Magic” Rituals and Attacking Police

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Charlotte Parents Arrested for “Black Magic” Rituals and Attacking Police

A Charlotte couple is facing a long list of charges after a chaotic scene inside their home put four children in danger and ended with both parents trying to bite first responders.

According to arrest records, police were called to a home on Mahogany Drive Wednesday after a neighbor reported screaming, burning objects and what the caller described as “black magic rituals.”

The caller also reported seeing the mother badly bruised and expressed concern for the couple’s four children, ages 3, 5, 11 and 14.

When officers arrived, they reportedly heard screaming and saw objects being thrown inside. Police also found .22-caliber bullets and blood droplets leading toward the porch.

Officers said 35-year-old Gabriel Antonio Santos-Funes and 33-year-old Maria Valladares opened the door with their four children standing nearby. The home had broken glass, destroyed furniture, large knives, and blowtorch-style lighters strewn around. When officers entered the home, the parents began making confusing and contradictory statements about what happened.

Santos-Funes then allegedly began rubbing officers with garlic and a Bible. Police said Valladares was speaking rapidly and acting increasingly agitated.

Santos-Funes then began excessively spraying one child with cologne, then started throwing garlic cloves at an officer.

When police tried to arrest him, Valladares allegedly grabbed at an officer’s neck and attempted to bite his leg.

Authorities say Santos-Funes tried to take an officer’s baton and use it against him, and tried to bite an officer, a firefighter, and Valladares. A firefighter suffered a minor injury.

Both parents were arrested Thursday.

Santos-Funes faces charges that include:

  • Multiple counts of misdemeanor child abuse
  • Resisting a public officer
  • Assault on a government official
  • Assault with a deadly weapon on a government official
  • Assault causing physical injury to emergency personnel
  • Common-law robbery
  • Discharging a firearm in the city
  • Assault on a female
  • Misdemeanor crime of domestic violence

His booking record lists a $10,000 secured bond on the resisting charge, with other charges consolidated or carrying separate bond conditions.

Valladares faces:

  • Four counts of misdemeanor child abuse
  • Resisting a public officer
  • Assault on a government official
  • Felony malicious conduct by a prisoner

Authorities say Valladares repeatedly spit at officers and inside a police vehicle after her arrest.

The incident remains under investigation.

Top 10 Best Places To See Fall Colors Around North Carolina

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Top 10 Best Places To See Fall Colors Around North Carolina

North Carolina, without a doubt, is one of the most beautiful states in America for fall colors. Our mountains, valleys, and piedmont combine with perfect temperatures in the fall, drawing in thousands from around the country to soak in the splendor.

Peak leaf season in our state can hit almost anytime, as early as September and as late as mid-November, currently we’re seeing peak season hitting all along the Blue Ridge Parkway, and colors just starting to show around the Charlotte region.

In no particular order, here are the top 10 places to see North Carolina colors in all their fall glory:

fall-colors-around-charlotte

#1 Uwharrie National Forest

About an hour drive from Charlotte, this place is best known for its ghost stories, gold mines, and beautiful lakes. Hike one of the many scenic trails to take in the colorful leaves, crisp air and see where the first documented gold rush took place.

 

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#2 Crowder’s Mountain

The tallest peak within a 30 minute drive from Charlotte, this place is a haven for rock climbers, mountain bikers, and hikers alike. Climb to the top to see for miles in every direction. You can even see the Queen City’s skyline from the top. Since the elevation around the mountain is so low, peak fall colors may not be seen for another week or two.

 

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Mountains are always hard to climb, but feel so good at the top! . There are so many ways to climb and you just have to find YOUR way. Take an alternate route or the safe path, whatever fits you! . You’re strong, capable, and resilient but you’re also human. Humans have flaws and challenging ourselves physically is the easy part. Convincing yourself to overcome your fear is the real challenge. . Emotional fitness needs to come to the forefront. I loooove throwing around weights and crushing athletic conditioning but that alone doesn’t make me happy. . Feeling good about who I am looking at in the mirror is far more important to me. . If you want to make more money or lose more weight you’ve got to have the right approach to your climb. One that fits you. . Constantly remind yourself how good it feels at the top of the mountain and motivation doesn’t leave! 🏔 🏔 . #stopstartingover #burnbootcamp

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#3 Grandfather Mountain

Soak in the stunning fall colors from Grandfather Mountain’s mile-high swinging bridge. Cross over to the other side and climb to the top of the mountain. The remarkable views are totally worth the apprehensive feelings you may get before crossing.

 

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#4 Table Rock

One of the most awe-inspiring ridges in the Pisgah National Forest, it’s peak soars over 3,950 feet above sea level and overlooking the Linville Gorge – it’s truly a site to see any time of year. It’s a major hike to the summit, but the payoff is huge when you witness the aerial view.

Got the opportunity to play on this awesome high line at the Devils cellar thanks @reeddt5

A photo posted by Kelly Konnerth (@kkonnerth) on

#5 Chimney Rock

Take in the sites in this one-of-a-kind old fashioned mountain town and then hike to the top of the rock to take in an array of colors surrounding the famous landmark right next to Lure Lake. Since this has one of the lowest elevations on our list, the colors will turn latest in the season – expect peak colors within the next 1-2 weeks.

#6 Blowing Rock

Blowing Rock has one of the most “fallish” town landscapes on our list – pumkins, fall colors, and mountain decor everywhere. Blowing Rock is certainly one of the best places to soak up fall in the Carolinas.

 

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Appalachian Mountains, you’re dreamy as hell⛰

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#7 Little Switzerland

Just off the Blue Ridge Parkway lies this incredible beauty. The charming little town offers incredible views of Mt. Mitchell (the tallest peak in North Carolina), as well as Table Rock, Grandfather Mountain, and several other peaks.

#8 Sugar Mountain

This place is a ski resort in the winter, so you can ride ski lift all the way to the top of the mountain for stunning views of the entire region.

#9 Banner Elk

Another incredibly quaint fall town that’s not only filled with fall leaves, but also pumkins, cider, and plenty of festivals and live music.

#10 Asheville

This is without a doubt the most visited fall destination on our list. If you’ve never been to Asheville in the fall, you have to go. The surrounding blue ridge parkway is remarkable, the downtown area is breathtaking, and the Biltmore truly blossoms this time of year.

 

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What’s your favorite place to enjoy fall in the Carolinas?

Emergency Boil Water Alert Issued For Parts of Fort Mill and Tega Cay

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Emergency Boil Water Alert Issued For Parts of Fort Mill and Tega Cay

A boil water advisory is now in effect for several York County neighborhoods near Fort Mill and Tega Cay after testing detected elevated E. coli levels in the drinking water.

York County issued the advisory Thursday after routine testing also found elevated total coliform in the public drinking water supply. The advisory applies only to specific York County Utilities customers.

These Areas Are Affected

Residents in the following areas should boil their water:

  • Hawks Creek
  • Stockbridge Drive
  • Coralstone Drive
  • Waterstone
  • Palmetto West

York County says customers should bring tap water to a vigorous boil for at least one full minute before using it. Bottled water or reverse osmosis filters can be used until the advisory is lifted.

Boiled or bottled water should be used for:

  • Drinking
  • Brushing teeth
  • Cooking and preparing food
  • Washing fruits and vegetables
  • Preparing baby formula
  • Making ice
  • Giving water to pets

Residents unsure about their water provider should confirm which utility serves their property.

E. coli in drinking water can indicate contamination and is used as an important warning sign during water-quality testing.

York County has not announced when the advisory will be lifted. Residents should continue boiling water until officials confirm follow-up testing shows the supply is safe.

Charlotte Lands 18 Michelin Guide Spots and North Carolina’s Only Michelin Star For 2026

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Charlotte Lands 18 Michelin Guide Spots and North Carolina’s Only Michelin Star For 2026

Charlotte’s restaurant scene just scored its biggest Michelin showing yet, with 18 area restaurants recognized in the 2026 Michelin Guide.

Wesley Heights tasting-menu restaurant Counter retained its coveted Michelin Star, keeping its place as North Carolina’s only Michelin-starred restaurant. Charlotte also gained a new Bib Gourmand and four new Recommended restaurants.

The awards were announced Wednesday night during the Michelin Guide American South ceremony in Nashville.

Charlotte’s 2026 Michelin Winners

One Michelin Star

  • Counter — Wesley Heights

Bib Gourmand

  • Lang Van — East Charlotte
  • The Story of Mi Cariño — South End

Bib Gourmand honors restaurants serving high-quality food at a strong value. The Story of Mi Cariño joined the category this year, while Lang Van kept its recognition.

15 Charlotte-Area Restaurants Earn Michelin Recommendations

Michelin also recognized 15 area restaurants for quality cooking, including four newcomers.

New to the guide:

  • Albertine
  • L’Ostrica
  • Pump Social in Concord
  • Spaghett

Returning Michelin Recommended restaurants:

  • Customshop
  • Ever Andalo
  • Haberdish
  • Hello Sailor in Cornelius
  • Kindred in Davidson
  • Little Mama’s
  • Omakase Experience by PrimeFish
  • Prime Fish
  • Rada
  • Restaurant Constance
  • Supperland

The 18 Charlotte-area restaurants accounted for more than half of North Carolina’s Michelin recognition this year. Charlotte also has more than 70% of the state’s Michelin Recommended restaurants.

Charlotte Chefs Win Two Special Awards

The Queen City also picked up two individual honors.

Héctor González-Mora, chef at The Story of Mi Cariño, won Michelin’s Young Chef Award. The South End restaurant opened this year as a modern Mexican cantina and mezcalería.

Chef Sam Diminich of Restaurant Constance received Michelin’s Mindful Voices recognition.

The additions expand Charlotte’s Michelin footprint after the guide first began covering the American South in 2025.

Counter remains the city’s biggest prize. The immersive restaurant earned Charlotte’s first Michelin Star last year and has since seen reservations surge.

$700 Million Brooklyn Village Finally Moving Forward in Uptown Charlotte

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$700 Million Brooklyn Village Finally Moving Forward in Uptown Charlotte

After a decade of delays and stalled plans, Mecklenburg County finally has a path to build Brooklyn Village in Uptown Charlotte.

Charlotte-based First & Early Capital is proposing at least 631,000 square feet of development on the project’s 5.8-acre first phase. The firm bought the property for $24.3 million this summer after the previous development effort collapsed.

County commissioners reviewed the new framework Tuesday night.

A formal vote could come Nov. 5, clearing the way for detailed planning to begin.

Apartments, Hotel, Offices and Restaurants

The latest proposal keeps Brooklyn Village as a major mixed-use development but updates the original 2018 plan.

The current framework includes:

  • 396 apartments if built across at least two residential buildings
  • At least 320 apartments if developers use one residential building
  • 100,000 square feet of office space
  • 150 hotel rooms
  • 45,100 square feet of retail and restaurant space
  • At least 10% affordable housing

The original agreement required more than 500,000 square feet of offices and over 100,000 square feet of retail. County officials said today’s office and retail markets no longer support those levels.

First & Early would also have flexibility to shift space between office, hotel and residential uses. The overall project must remain mixed-use and maintain at least 631,000 square feet.

Construction Would Finally Have a Deadline

Under the new framework, First & Early would have nine months after a final agreement to submit its Phase One plan.

Construction would then have to start within three years after plan approval. Several commissioners asked whether that timeline could be shortened after years of delays.

Affordable Housing Remains a Major Issue

The proposal keeps the original requirement that 10% of residential units be affordable.

Those units would generally target households earning up to 80% of area median income. At least 10 units would target households at 60% AMI, and qualifying tenants could use Section 8 vouchers.

Some commissioners pushed for more.

Commissioner Susan Rodriguez-McDowell called 10% “barely a minimum.” Commissioner Laura Meier Powell also questioned whether housing at 80% AMI is truly affordable.

Commissioners Want Brooklyn’s History Preserved

The site was once part of Brooklyn, Charlotte’s historically Black Second Ward neighborhood, much of which was demolished during urban renewal.

Commissioner Arthur Griffin said the new plan still needs stronger commitments to preserve that history.

“This is absolutely painful for me.”

Griffin asked for more detail on housing, businesses, retail and other elements tied to Brooklyn’s original community.

Commissioner Vilma Leake also urged the county to review old records before finalizing the project.

“You didn’t have to come out of Brooklyn for anything,” Leake said, recalling the neighborhood’s stores, churches and services.

Board Chairman Mark Jerrell described the redevelopment as an attempt to repair historic damage.

“We’re trying to right a wrong,” he said.

A New Developer After Years of Failure

Mecklenburg County first selected a developer for Brooklyn Village in 2016, but vertical construction never began on Phase One.

First & Early later purchased the property after it reverted to the previous developer’s lender. The firm’s principals have participated in more than $5 billion in real estate transactions.

If commissioners approve the new agreement in November, detailed planning could finally begin.

All-Pro Dad Experience Returning to Bank of America Stadium with Coach Canales

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All-Pro Dad Experience Returning to Bank of America Stadium with Coach Canales

On Friday, Nov. 13, All Pro Dad is taking over Bank of America Stadium alongside the Carolina Panthers Head Coach Dave Canales for its premier annual event, the Charlotte All Pro Dad Experience. From 6:00-8:30 p.m., dads and their kids are invited to connect through on-field activities designed to entertain and educate.

In addition to interactive games and relationship-building exercises, like the touchdown dance and football drills, the All Pro Dad Experience will feature helpful fatherhood tips from Coach Canales. Families will also get to enjoy the ‘Sam’s Club Dad Zone’ in partnership with Tyson Foods, an interactive game station that includes a Jimmy Dean Sausage Patty Pass, Tyson Chicken Strip Sack, agility challenges and more. Prior to the All Pro Dad Experience, Sam’s Club members can get complimentary tickets to the event on Tuesday (11/10) at Pineville Sam’s Club (11425 Carolina Place Parkway), Wednesday (11/11) at Matthews Sam’s Club (1801 Windsor Square Drive) and Thursday (11/12) at Charlotte Sam’s Club (8909 JW Clay Boulevard), from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., respectively, while supplies last.

“Some of the most important moments in fatherhood are the simplest ones spent together,” said Mark Merrill, president of Family First. “The All Pro Dad Experience gives fathers and their kids the chance to step away from everyday distractions, have fun and strengthen their relationship.”

Mark Merrill and Coach Tony Dungy founded All Pro Dad in 1997, and it has been a primary resource for fathers seeking inspiration and connection ever since. As the fatherhood program of Family First, All Pro Dad stands as one of the world’s largest parenting organizations, with over 1,700 chapters globally.

The All Pro Dad Experience is recommended for elementary and middle school-aged children. Admission for families starts at $35. The Charlotte All Pro Dad Experience is sponsored by Coca Cola Consolidated, Belk, Icy Hot.

For more information about the Charlotte All Pro Dad Experience and to purchase tickets, visit allprodad.com/charlotte-all-pro-dad-experience.

New FBI Records Reveal Bribery Investigation Into Sen. Graham as SC Votes on His Successor

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New FBI Records Reveal Bribery Investigation Into Sen. Graham as SC Votes on His Successor

A previously secret FBI bribery investigation involving late Sen. Lindsey Graham is exploding into public view at a politically sensitive moment in South Carolina.

The records surfaced this week as early voting is underway for the senator who will permanently replace him. Graham’s sister, Darline Graham, currently holds the seat and is locked in a competitive race against Democrat Annie Andrews.

President Donald Trump traveled to South Carolina Wednesday to campaign for Darline Graham. At nearly the same time, newly uncovered FBI records were drawing national attention to her brother’s dealings with a defense contractor.

Darline also retained much of Lindsey Graham’s senior Senate staff after his death. That includes staff members who previously dealt with the contractor now at the center of the allegations.

The FBI investigation centered on Hawaiian defense contractor Navatek and former CEO Martin Kao.

Kao told agents that Graham agreed during a private 2020 dinner to help secure roughly $10 million in federal work. Kao alleged Graham wanted $100,000 in campaign support in return.

Graham was never charged and was never formally named a subject of the investigation. His office denied any quid-pro-quo arrangement.

Emails reviewed by investigators showed Navatek was told it needed to commit $40,000 in campaign contributions for the private dinner with Graham.

The company later received federal funding connected to Navy research through the University of South Carolina. Graham’s office supported $9.5 million in funding tied to the project.

FBI agents later found that some language in congressional budget documents closely resembled wording from Navatek’s internal materials.

Internal company records reportedly described Graham as a “key supporter.”

By late 2024, investigators were preparing additional steps in the case. The probe later stalled after personnel changes inside the FBI and Justice Department.

There is no public indication the investigation has been restarted.

The newly released records do not prove Graham committed bribery, and no charges were filed against him.

Hundreds Swarmed Charlotte Church in Violent ‘Street Takeover’, Firing Guns and Vandalizing Buildings

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Hundreds Swarmed Charlotte Church in Violent ‘Street Takeover’, Firing Guns and Vandalizing Buildings

At least 300 young people flooded a Huntersville church this past weekend for a chaotic ‘street takeover‘ – firing guns, breaking windows, and leaving drugs and trash all over.

The incident happened Oct. 18 at Faith City Charlotte. Bishop Amere May said surveillance video captured hundreds of young people gathering across the property.

May said some climbed on church signs and damaged windows – guns, alcohol, and marijuana were seen in the crowd. Church leaders also reported finding shell casings on the ground afterward.

CMPD has not yet confirmed the estimated crowd size or all details surrounding the incident.

Faith City Charlotte has surveillance cameras, license plate readers and facial-recognition technology. Church officials are sharing evidence with law enforcement as investigators work to identify those involved.

The church is asking for help in making repairs and installing stronger fencing and more security cameras to prevent future incidents.

Faith City Charlotte is asking anyone with photos, videos or information from Saturday night to contact law enforcement.

FEMA Launches New Option to Buy National Flood Insurance Program Policy Online For North Carolinians

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FEMA Launches New Option to Buy National Flood Insurance Program Policy Online For North Carolinians

It is now easier than ever for North Carolina residents to prepare for the devastating financial consequences of flooding.

Today FEMA launched a new tool to purchase a National Flood Insurance Program policy completely online through Floodsmart.gov. The tool is accessible nationwide, with the online purchase option available to anyone living in one of the almost 22,700 participating NFIP communities.

This development aligns with President Trump’s American First Resilience Strategy which outlines a risk-informed approach to resilience that empowers the American people to protect themselves and their property. Individuals are the first line of resilience and represent the nation’s greatest strategic advantage. By making it easier to purchase flood insurance, FEMA is empowering them to ensure their own resilience and reduce dependence on federal assistance.

“I’ve seen firsthand how floodwaters devastate American communities,” said FEMA Administrator Cameron Hamilton. “We are making it easier for people to reduce their financial risk and protect what they’ve spent their lives building. With this new digital tool, you can get a quote and buy a flood insurance policy in a matter of minutes. This innovation demonstrates how FEMA is working to cut bureaucracy and deliver results to the American people.”

Through the National Flood Insurance Program’s new self-service digital purchase option, FEMA is reducing barriers and making flood insurance more accessible to people nationwide. You can get a quote on Floodsmart.gov after providing basic information about your building. Once you receive your quote, you will have the option to purchase a policy online or through an insurance agent. If you choose to purchase online, you can do so on Floodsmart.gov in just a few minutes. If you choose to purchase through a local or national carrier, you can share your quote details with your insurance agent, or Floodsmart.gov will offer the contact information of three licensed state insurance agents.

The new self-service tool is consistent with the insurance industry’s shift toward digital engagement and aims to make it easier for more Americans to access flood coverage.

Floods are the most common and costliest natural disaster in the United States. Flood insurance provides financial protection against the unexpected to help Americans be better prepared, self-sufficient and confident in their ability to safeguard their future. FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program provides about $35.9 billion in coverage for approximately 127,100 policyholders in North Carolina.

To learn more about flood insurance, get a quote and purchase a policy, visit www.floodsmart.gov/policy-quote.

Woman Hospitalized After Train Hits Her Car in Gaston County

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Woman Hospitalized After Train Hits Her Car in Gaston County

A Gastonia woman was hospitalized Wednesday morning after her SUV collided with a train at a railroad crossing in Belmont.

The crash happened around 6:30 am near Acme Road and Cason Street, off Perfection Avenue. Belmont Police said the SUV struck the side of a Charlotte & Western train.

The impact caused heavy damage to the front of the vehicle. Gaston County EMS transported one person to the hospital.


Authorities have not released an updated condition for the driver. Belmont Police are investigating what caused the crash.

Acme Road was temporarily closed in both directions while crews worked the scene. The crash did not cause major traffic problems because of the location.

Investigators have not said whether the crossing gates or warning signals were active before the collision.

The investigation remains active.

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