Social media safety is one of the biggest shifts in public safety. Buying and selling on Facebook Marketplace and similar platforms creates real-world exposure when strangers want to meet for a transaction. The safest move is choosing public locations, avoiding private meetups, and never inviting unknown buyers to your home. Statesville offers a practical option for many people forget: meeting at the police department, where cameras and officers nearby add accountability. Learn more or find SPD at police.statesvillenc.net.

Online behavior also affects personal security in quieter ways, especially for kids and teens. Oversharing locations, routines, or personal details can lead people straight to a home address. Parents and caregivers can reduce risk by talking early about privacy, contacts, and boundaries, not just after something goes wrong.

Cyberbullying and harmful online activity add a mental health layer that crime prevention conversations often miss. Threats, rumors, and humiliating posts can follow a student from home to school, triggering anxiety, depression, and in worst cases suicidal thoughts. With AI making it harder to tell what’s real, the emotional impact can be severe even when content is fake. Prevention here looks like parental controls, checking what apps are installed, and paying attention to sudden changes in behavior or social media use. It also means remembering that “trends” change fast, so families, schools, and school resource officers have to share what they are seeing in real time to keep up with new platforms and new tactics.

The episode also tackles fraud prevention, counterfeit products, and firearm safety. The most common scam reported is the imposter scam, where callers pretend to be a bank or government agency and pressure you into sharing personal information. A strong rule is simple: verify before you comply, and if you already shared financial details, stop communicating and contact your bank or payment app immediately to freeze accounts because time is everything. Counterfeit goods look real but can be junk, cost you money, and funnel profits to criminal organizations. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Finally, firearm safety at home depends on education and safe storage. For kids, the Eddie Eagle message is clear: stop, don’t touch, leave the area, and tell an adult. Statesville also provides free gun locks, and the department offers free neighborhood watch and safety presentations, helping residents build practical habits that prevent becoming a victim.

A major problem is how easily lithium-ion batteries end up in the trash stream. People assume a battery is harmless when it is “dead,” then toss it into a bin where a sanitation truck compactor can crush it and cause ignition. That puts sanitation workers, trucks, transfer stations, and landfills at risk. The safer approach is straightforward: recycle any battery that recharges. That includes cell phones, hearing aids, vapes, power tools, e-bikes, hoverboards, scooters, and even electric toothbrushes. By contrast, single-use household batteries for remotes and similar devices can typically go in the trash when they are not rechargeable. Clear labeling and habits at home reduce confusion and prevent the most common disposal mistakes.

Safe charging habits matter just as much as recycling. Many of us leave devices plugged in overnight or keep chargers running in garages, basements, and sheds, especially for power tool packs and personal mobility devices. Heat is a warning and a signal to pay attention, not to ignore. A practical tip shared for safer charging is using a simple timer to limit charge time, since most devices do not need constant charging. If a battery becomes extremely hot, starts swelling, or makes a hissing sound, treat it as urgent. Move it away from people and combustibles if you can do so safely, and call 911. One critical “do not” is adding water in a sink, which can worsen certain battery fire conditions and create additional hazards.

Fire prevention is also about making safety feel accessible for families, kids, and older adults. Heather uses hands-on school programs and a kid-friendly character, Fire Marshal Pete, to teach concepts like good fire versus bad fire and basics like stop, drop, and roll. For families, the biggest life-saving message is working smoke alarms and a practiced fire escape plan with a meeting place outside. “Closed before you doze” is a simple reminder that sleeping with bedroom doors closed can buy precious time during a fire. For residents who need assistance, the fire department can help with smoke alarm battery changes, especially for older adults who should not climb ladders. The department also introduces a rescue alert window cling placed low on the front or side door to help firefighters quickly identify pets, children, older adults, or people with disabilities inside.

Learn more about the Statesville Fire Department on their website at fire.statesvillenc.net.

On Rev It Up, Kali and H sit down to talk with Emily Deal, Facility Supervisor at the Statesville Recreation Center (The Rec), about a full slate of fall programs and community events designed for families, homeschool groups, teens, and anyone looking for simple local fun. This lineup hits the sweet spot: low-cost registration, clear age ranges, and activities that feel like real community rather than one-off entertainment.

Homeschool families get two strong options:

The standard homeschool program is $5 per child for ages 5 to 12, with themed sessions that make learning feel hands-on and social. September brings a nature day at Mac Anderson Park, with the kind of messy, memorable projects kids love. October adds pickleball lessons, leaning into one of the fastest-growing recreational sports in the country. November finishes with rock wall sessions at the rec center, and the hosts stress an important planning tip: popular sessions fill fast and a waitlist does not guarantee a spot. For older students, new homeschool field trips expand the reach, priced at $25 per child for ages 12 to 17, departing from the rec center with staff supervision.

Those teen-focused field trips are built around classic fall experiences and practical exposure. September visits Kerrigan Farms for apples, hay rides, and outdoor farm life. October heads to Serenity Alpacas, a unique local experience that feels both fun and oddly calming. November shifts from seasonal to forward-looking with college exposure trips to Lenoir-Rhyne University and CVCC, giving homeschool teens a low-pressure way to see nearby options and imagine next steps. Together, these trips support social connection for local homeschool co-ops while offering enrichment that is hard to replicate at home.

Learn more on our website at recreation.statesvillenc.net/homeschool.

Community programs round out the calendar with easy “just show up” energy. Family craft night in mid-September pairs The Rec with a local artist for a guided project, and family bingo offers prizes with a wide age range in mind. October’s family pumpkin carving is a standout because it removes the biggest barrier for many parents: cleanup. You register based on how many pumpkin and carving kits you want, carve on-site, watch a family-friendly spooky movie, and head home with the finished pumpkin while the rec center handles the mess. November brings glow-in-the-dark pickleball under black lights for ages 10 and up, plus a three-point basketball competition for those chasing prizes and bragging rights. Learn more at recreation.statesvillenc.net/community-programs.

Accessibility and inclusion stay central through the AIR Program, which stands for adaptive, inclusive recreation. The AIR Halloween dance is free and welcomes people of all abilities for costumes, music, snacks, and a low-stakes “first school dance” vibe. A December holiday spectacular continues the theme with cookie decorating, ornaments, and festive music. Learn more at recreation.statesvillenc.net/air-program.

The episode also highlights our Teacher Workday Programs for grades K through 5th, including Funpalooza at the rec center, a Howard Family Farm trip, and a Spooky Science day at Iredell Museums. Learn more at recreation.statesvillenc.net/teacher-workday.

Finally, Dog Day at the Pool returns as a beloved event with safety-first rules: proof of current rabies vaccination, limits on dogs per person, no aggressive dogs, no toys, no prong or choke collars, and no people in the water, plus staff cleaning protocols before and after. Learn more at recreation.statesvillenc.net/dog-day-at-the-pool.

Learn more about all Statesville Recreation & Economic Vitality programming on our website at recreation.statesvillenc.net.

We talk through the real mechanics of local support: a weekly food pantry, a clothing closet that becomes critical during back-to-school season, and lunch service connected to the cooling station. One of the most surprising details is how food boxes can reach people who cannot drive, using a DoorDash pickup and delivery option so shut-in residents are not left out. We also get honest about the “small” needs that can become crisis points fast, like gas money for appointments or help affording medicine.

Then the conversation shifts to extreme weather response and why warming stations and cooling stations are more than temporary programs. Lieutenant McCormick explains how teamwork, volunteers, and partner agencies help the community move quickly when temperatures drop and people have nowhere safe to go. We also look ahead to the busy fall and Christmas season, including bell ringing, the Angel Tree warehouse, and a new effort to provide gifts for seniors who might otherwise receive nothing.

If you care about community services, homelessness support, hunger relief, and how local partnerships actually function, this one is for you. 

A New Name. A Broader Vision.

One of the first topics of conversation is the department's evolution from Statesville Recreation and Parks to Statesville Recreation & Economic Vitality.

The name change reflects much more than a new brand. As the department expanded its responsibilities - including the addition of the Statesville Event Center and a close partnership with Downtown Statesville Development Corporation - it became clear the department's mission had grown beyond traditional parks and recreation.

Today, parks, greenways, athletic programs, event management, downtown partnerships, and community experiences all work together to strengthen quality of life while supporting tourism, conferences, local businesses, and economic growth throughout Statesville.

That same philosophy also led to updated facility names. The Statesville Event Center (previously the Statesville Civic Center) better reflects the venue's role in hosting weddings, conferences, meetings, and community events, while the Statesville Recreation Center (previously the Statesville Fitness & Activity Center) aligns with the name residents have long used for the facility. These updates provide greater clarity while reinforcing each facility's purpose within the community.

Statesville Heritage Festival

The conversation also highlights the inaugural Statesville Heritage Festival, taking place Saturday, August 1, 2026, at the Statesville Event Center.

Originally inspired by America's 250th anniversary, the event evolved into a celebration of the many cultures, traditions, and stories that make Statesville unique. Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy live entertainment, cultural demonstrations, educational presentations, community conversations, interactive activities, and a collaborative community mural that will become a lasting piece of public art.

The festival was intentionally designed to bring people together through learning, conversation, and shared experiences while showcasing the partnerships that continue to strengthen our community. Organizers hope it becomes an annual tradition that continues to grow for years to come.

Learn more about the Statesville Heritage Festival here.

Statesville Bookbag Giveaway

Families attending the Heritage Festival will also have the opportunity to participate in the annual Statesville Bookbag Giveaway, presented in partnership with Village Intervention Partnership.

The goal is to distribute approximately 1,000 backpacks filled with school supplies to local students, helping them start the school year prepared and confident. The event will also feature free hot dogs provided by the Statesville Police Department, inflatables, and additional family-friendly activities, making it a fun day for the entire community.

Learn more about the Statesville Bookbag Giveaway here.

Stay Connected

New episodes of REV It Up are released monthly, bringing you closer to the people, projects, and partnerships shaping recreation and economic vitality in Statesville.

In this episode of Front & Center, hosts April Nesbit, Public Information Officer, and Nakayla Griffin, Community Resource Officer, sit down with Shaun Smith from the Iredell County Health Department to discuss one of the county's most valuable public health resources - the Mobile Health Unit.

Although many residents have seen the 42-foot clinic traveling throughout Iredell County, few realize just how many services it provides. The Mobile Health Unit was created to bring preventive healthcare and health education directly into neighborhoods, workplaces, churches, schools, and community events, making it easier than ever for residents to access important medical services.

Listeners will learn how the Mobile Health Unit functions as a fully equipped clinic, complete with two private exam rooms and compassionate healthcare professionals who are committed to meeting people where they are - both physically and personally. Whether someone is looking for a free blood pressure screening, immunizations, WIC services, STD and STI testing, affordable laboratory work, or emergency preparedness resources, the Mobile Health Unit helps remove many of the barriers that prevent people from seeking care.

The conversation also explores why preventive healthcare matters. Something as simple as a blood pressure check can identify health concerns before they become emergencies, helping residents connect with primary care providers and other community resources when needed.

Throughout the episode, the team shares stories that demonstrate the impact the Mobile Health Unit has had across Iredell County. One memorable example highlights how a routine visit connected an uninsured resident with affordable healthcare resources and ongoing support, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for the entire family.

The Mobile Health Unit currently serves communities throughout Iredell County on Mondays and Thursdays, with plans to expand service to additional days. Organizations interested in hosting the unit - including churches, employers, neighborhood associations, schools, and community events - can submit a request through the Iredell County website here.

Whether you've seen the Mobile Health Unit parked at a local event or are hearing about it for the first time, this episode offers an inside look at how healthcare is becoming more accessible for residents across our community. 

🎧 Listen to the full episode of Front &Center to discover how the Mobile Health Unit is improving lives by bringing healthcare directly to the people of Iredell County.

Learn more about the Iredell County Mobile Health Unit here or call the Iredell County Health Department at (704) 878-5300 and ask for Shaun Smith.

Chief Kurfees shares the rich history of the department, from its early days to the modern, highly trained team that serves Statesville today. Over the years, SFD has evolved with advancements in equipment, training, and emergency response - but one thing has remained constant: a deep commitment to protecting the community.

The conversation highlights not only the department’s legacy, but also the people behind the badge. Chief Kurfees emphasizes the dedication, professionalism, and teamwork that define the Statesville Fire Department. From responding to emergencies to investing thousands of hours in training each year, SFD firefighters are always preparing to answer the call.

Listeners will also get a preview of the upcoming 150th Anniversary Celebration - a special opportunity for the community to come together, honor the department’s history, and recognize the men and women who have served across generations. The event will showcase the department’s past, present, and future, offering something for residents of all ages to enjoy.

This episode is a reminder that the fire department is more than emergency response—it’s a vital part of the fabric of Statesville. Whether through life-saving work, public education, or community engagement, SFD continues to make a lasting impact every day.

🎧 Tune in to hear the full conversation and learn more about the legacy and future of the Statesville Fire Department.

Learn more about the Statesville Fire Department on their website at fire.statesvillenc.net. Interested in learning more about the history of the Statesville Fire Department, visit their website at fire.statesvillenc.net/history.

Costi shares how a mentor pushed him toward public office, how he learned to wait his turn, and why breaking tie votes is less a triumph than a sign to slow down and listen. We explore the shift from charity to governance - where decisions invite criticism - and the discipline it takes to read the packet, hold a tentative view, and let new facts change your mind. He explains why people matter more than projects, shining a light on staff ingenuity during COVID, a data-driven look at housing and development, and the City Manager’s role in keeping the machine honest and accountable.

The conversation turns heartfelt as we revisit the loss of eight-year-old Ah'Mayahh Howell and the way the city united across lines that usually divide. Costi doesn’t pretend grief remade us forever, but he believes it moved us meaningfully and sharpened our focus on prevention and empathy. He’s candid about what he’ll miss - meeting employers, selling Statesville’s strengths, and celebrating community milestones - and what he won’t: rancor and partisan theater that distract from sidewalks, parks, police, and housing. His parting advice to the next Mayor is refreshingly practical: be present, protect nonpartisan norms, manage time ruthlessly, and remember that attending matters even if you cannot stay to the end.

Learn more about the Statesville City Council here.

Learn more about Statesville Mayor Costi Kutteh here.

Pumpkin Fest anchors the season with more than seven thousand visitors, two stages, community performances, STEM experiences, pumpkin smashing, and a classic car cruise-in looping Court and South Meeting. Sponsors like Flow Automotive and Happy Teeth power the scale, while the team squeezes vendor rows into every workable nook without losing flow. Downtown Trick-or-Treat moves to Thursday by design, easing restaurant operations and setting up Saturday’s festival, and the Statesville Police Department’s “Fill the Trailer” toy drive brings curbside drop-offs and big smiles. If you want spine-tingles, Haunted Statesville Ghost Tours deliver a blend of lore and history with 45–60 minute walks hosted by The Sharp House Historic Players across two weekends.

The holidays arrive with a staged build-up: the tree goes up during Thanksgiving week, Santa lights it on Thursday, December 4, 2025, and Shop & Stroll transforms Friday into a hallmark-worthy night. Expect carolers, extended store hours, a free trolley from five to nine, a live nativity, the Little Blue Choo, and s’mores with the fire department - thoughtful touches that make it easy to browse, buy, and linger. We address the parking question head-on and celebrate the new deck rising downtown, then preview the Christmas Parade and the fast-selling carriage rides.

Join us to get dates, routes, and pro tips, plus the behind-the-scenes logic that keeps events fun and functional.

Sanitation Superintendent, Russell Brown, and Assistant Superintendent, Kandense Adams, join us to reveal the inner workings of this massive undertaking. They break down the city's five collection areas - from Beech Nut near Catawba to the neighborhoods beyond West Front Street - and explain why some sections (particularly Area Two with its mature trees) take longer than others. Understanding your collection area is crucial, especially since opposite sides of the same street might fall into different zones!

The collection fleet operates seven specialized vehicles daily, including five automated trucks with joystick-controlled vacuum arms that operators maneuver with video-game-like precision. These powerful machines make quick work of properly prepared leaf piles, but there's a catch - residents must follow specific guidelines for successful collection. The team emphasizes placing leaves on grassy areas (never in streets where they clog storm drains), keeping them away from obstacles like meters and fire hydrants, and most importantly, ensuring piles contain ONLY leaves - no sticks, rocks, or debris that damage equipment and cause costly delays.

For those seeking alternatives to curbside collection, the city offers free leaf collection bags from November 3 through December 5, 2025 (available at the Customer Service Department, Bentley Community Center and the Fitness & Activity Center). These enormous bags - jokingly described as "big enough to fit two bodies" - provide the fastest removal option, with pickup occurring on regular garbage days regardless of weather delays. After December 5, bags can be purchased through December 22, 2025. Environmentally minded residents might consider mulching leaves with a lawnmower, providing natural fertilizer for lawns.

The team's advice? Be proactive! Don't wait until collection crews reach your area - prepare your leaves in advance. Visit statesvillenc.net for daily schedule updates and use the interactive map to locate your collection area.

Learn more about Leaf Collection here.

What makes Statesville's celebration unique? Unlike the national observance held in August, our local event strategically moved to October to escape sweltering summer temperatures and align with National Crime Prevention Month. The downtown location creates an intimate, accessible gathering place where approximately 50 community partners will showcase resources while officers connect with residents in a relaxed setting. From bounce houses and free food (including the coveted funnel cakes) to crime prevention information, the event offers something for every age group.

Beyond the logistics, this conversation reveals the deeper purpose behind Night Out. Chief Onley explains how these interactions humanize officers, showing them as "everyday people" with families and personalities beyond the badge. What began as an annual gathering has evolved into a community engagement philosophy, with SPD now hosting smaller neighborhood events throughout the year across Statesville. Through playful "quick fire" questions about which officers are morning people, competitive spirits, coffee drinkers, and grill masters, listeners glimpse the camaraderie that defines the department's culture.

Whether you're bringing children for the activities, seeking safety information, or simply wanting to chat with your local officers outside of emergency situations, Statesville's Night Out promises meaningful connections in a festive atmosphere. Mark your calendar, bring your appetite (especially for Chan's grilled specialties), and join the celebration that strengthens the bonds between public safety personnel and the community they serve.

In this revealing conversation, City Engineer Matt Hubert and Assistant City Manager Scott Harrell talk with City Manager Ron Smith take us behind the scenes of Statesville's major infrastructure initiatives. They discuss the newly completed phases of the Municipal Operations Center, where decades-old "Frankenstein" facilities have been replaced with modern, efficient workspaces allowing departments previously scattered across multiple buildings to collaborate effectively for the first time.

Downtown's transformation continues at the intersection of Front and Trad Streets, where crews are simultaneously addressing a sinkhole while constructing a six-level parking deck as part of the police department expansion. This project will eventually include 125 market-rate apartments through a public-private partnership - potentially catalyzing more residential development in our downtown core.

Perhaps most impressive is the "spline project," a $20 million state-funded initiative replacing six miles of 1940s-era water main running from our treatment plant through downtown. This massive undertaking requires careful coordination with hospitals, courts, and emergency services to minimize disruption while dramatically improving water reliability and fire protection.

We don't stop there - the conversation explores Statesville Regional Airport terminal construction, parks revitalization, underground electrical upgrades, stormwater improvements, and sidewalk projects. Each initiative represents years of planning finally coming to fruition, though not without challenges from inflation, labor shortages, and the complexities of modernizing aging infrastructure.

Whether you're curious about specific projects affecting your neighborhood or want to understand the strategic vision behind Statesville's development, this episode offers a transparent look at the temporary inconveniences creating lasting improvements for our community's future. Join us to discover what lies beneath the construction barriers and how these projects will reshape Statesville for decades to come.

Learn more about all major projects happening in Statesville here.

The concept behind AIR evolved from the department's previous Pet Club, which served individuals with different abilities, including Special Olympics athletes. Emily Diehl, the Facility Supervisor at the Statesville Fitness and Activity Center, explains that the new program aims to provide more frequent and accessible programming for community members who may face barriers to participation in traditional recreational activities. This initiative acknowledges that not everyone has equal access to recreational opportunities, and seeks to bridge that gap.

What makes AIR truly special is its thoughtful approach to adaptability. For example, the program includes an adaptive egg hunt that considers the needs of participants with various abilities. For visually impaired individuals, they're looking to incorporate beeping eggs to enable participation. For those using wheelchairs, organizers are carefully considering placement of eggs at accessible heights. These seemingly small considerations make a tremendous difference in creating truly inclusive experiences that allow everyone to participate with dignity and enjoyment.

The program isn't limited to individuals with disabilities - it's open to everyone. This inclusive approach helps build community bridges between people of different abilities and backgrounds. Activities range from pool parties (utilizing the zero-entry leisure pool that allows wheelchair access) to puzzle competitions, movie nights, and themed dances. Each event is designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring that all participants can engage fully and comfortably.

The initiative creates valuable networking opportunities for participants and caregivers. Parents of children with special needs can connect with others facing similar challenges, sharing experiences and support. For individuals in group homes, the program offers chances to form friendships and build community connections that extend beyond the events themselves. Since all AIR programs are offered free of charge, they're truly accessible to everyone regardless of financial constraints.

Planning for AIR has been a collaborative effort involving the Special Olympics Iredell County coordinator Bobby Williams, former Pet Club organizer and Fitness Coordinator at the Statesville Fitness & Activity Center, Mark Wilkinson, and EC (Exceptional Children) teachers from local schools. This partnership approach ensures that the program addresses real needs and incorporates expertise from various perspectives. As the program develops, organizers plan to continuously evaluate and refine their approach based on participant feedback.

For those interested in participating, volunteering, or learning more about the AIR Program, information is available at recreation.statesville.net, where a dedicated webpage provides details about upcoming events.

Statesville Public Power is revolutionizing how customers experience outages here in Statesville with a new management system launching this fall. In our conversation with Assistant Director Jared Wiles, we explore how North Carolina's oldest municipal electric utility (dating back to 1889) is bringing cutting-edge technology to its customers.

The days of manually responding to outage calls and posting social media updates every 45 minutes are coming to an end. The new system will automatically detect when your power goes out, send you text notifications with estimated restoration times, and keep you updated as repairs progress. A customer-facing portal will show affected areas on a map, helping you avoid dangerous locations during major outages. Behind the scenes, predictive technology will help crews identify problem locations faster, getting your lights back on more quickly and safely.

This transformation depends on having your current contact information, especially your mobile number. Take a moment to update your details at www.statesvillenc.net (click "Update My Info" under Quick Links), call 704-878-3564 (option 7), or stop by in person. Join Statesville Public Power as they honor their legacy as "First in Light" while bringing smarter service to every customer.

Nestled in the heart of Statesville's walkable downtown district, this 25-year-old facility serves dual purposes that might seem at odds but actually complement each other beautifully. It provides affordable, accessible space for local residents hosting weddings, retirement parties, and community gatherings. Simultaneously, it attracts regional conferences and multi-day events that bring visitors to explore our charming downtown shops, restaurants, and amenities.

Listen now as Ron Smith (Statesville City Manager), Richard Griggs (Director at the Statesville Recreation & Parks Department), and Kali Bailey (Facilities & Events Manager at the Statesville Recreation & Parks Department) talk about how the facility's flexibility shines through in how it serves different audiences throughout the week. Weekends often feature wedding receptions and celebrations, while weekdays host business training sessions and organizational meetings. Major events like the North Carolina Main Street Conference, which brought over 700 attendees, showcase the center's ability to handle large-scale gatherings that benefit the entire downtown ecosystem.

Recent changes reflect a strategic balance between financial sustainability and community access. Different rate structures for weekday versus weekend events, adjusted rental timeframes, and partnerships with the Convention and Visitors Bureau all aim to optimize the facility's impact. Meanwhile, impressive upgrades including state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment in the newly renovated media room, interior refreshes, and planned outdoor improvements position the Civic Center to meet modern needs.

Now operating under the Recreation and Parks Department umbrella, the Statesville Civic Center team is exploring exciting new possibilities including more internal programming, concerts, and expanded community partnerships. Whether you're planning an intimate gathering or a regional conference, we invite you to discover how this downtown gem can transform your next event.

Contact us today to tour the facility and learn why the Statesville Civic Center has remained at the heart of our community for a quarter century. Learn more about the Civic Center here or give them a call at 704-878-3493.

You'll be surprised to discover the airport's remarkable celebrity guest list, which includes country stars George Strait and Kane Brown, alongside rapper DaBaby. Even more impressive is the facility's crucial role in NASCAR operations, dispatching 13 fifty-passenger jets each race weekend to transport 600-700 team members across the country. This specialized aviation hub has positioned itself at the intersection of transportation and economic development, with the recent Westar (formerly JetEast) maintenance facility bringing 120+ skilled jobs to the region.

The conversation explores exciting developments including the new three-story terminal building scheduled to open in December, potentially featuring a restaurant with observation deck dining—what pilots affectionately call a "$100 hamburger" destination. Looking toward the future, Ferguson outlines ambitious plans for runway extension, control tower development, and enhanced emergency response capabilities that will continue elevating Statesville's aviation profile. Whether you're an aviation enthusiast or simply curious about economic development, this eye-opening discussion reveals how strategic infrastructure investment creates ripples of prosperity throughout the community. Next time you hear jets overhead, remember you're witnessing Statesville's gateway to global business in action.

The summer calendar kicks off with their signature Youth Summer Camp (June 23-27), where elementary school children solve mock crimes, learn safety skills, and build lasting relationships with officers. NaKayla describes how these connections extend beyond the program, with many participants keeping in touch year after year. From Coffee with a Cop at Starbucks to a Community Cookout serving homeless residents at Alex Cooper Park, each event targets a different segment of the population to ensure no one is overlooked.

Creative gatherings like "Snowball with the Cops" and "Bowling with a Cop" create casual environments where children see officers as approachable allies rather than intimidating figures. Stories of a three-year-old overcoming her fear of police and a young man inspired to join the Public Safety Academy demonstrate the tangible impact of these interactions.

The summer culminates with National Night Out on October 2nd – affectionately called "the prom of the PD" – bringing together residents from every corner of Statesville. Want to partner with SPD or have officers attend your event?

Learn more about Statesville Police Department's Community Services & Programs events here. 

Summer movies take center stage with two distinct series to enjoy. The Dive-In Movies at Statesville Leisure Pool offer a unique experience where families can splash and play while watching films like "The Little Mermaid" for just $7 per person. For those preferring dry land, the free Movies in the Park series at MLK Jr. Park provides entertainment under the stars (just don't forget your bug spray!).  The Statesville Leisure Pool and the Splash Pad at the Bentley Community Center opens on May 24, 2025. Learn more here about annual memberships for the Statesville Fitness & Activity Center, as entrance into the pool is included in this membership. And don't forget that the Bentley Center Splash Pad is FREE for additional water fun! 

Art enthusiasts won't want to miss Art in the Park on June 7th, featuring 60 vendors, live music on two stages, food trucks, and beverages from Red Buffalo and the Iredell Arts Council.

Sports enthusiasts can choose from numerous youth camps and leagues, with fall registration already open for soccer, softball, and volleyball.  With record participation numbers exceeding 900 youth athletes in recent seasons, Statesville Recreation and Parks continues to grow and serve the community through partnerships, innovative programming, and a commitment to keeping residents of all ages active and engaged throughout the summer months and beyond.

Adult Leagues are also available for those looking to stay active and competitive!

Mark your calendars for Statesville's spectacular July 3rd Fireworks Celebration, proudly described as "the greatest show in North Carolina." Sponsored by Country Boy Landscaping and Tim Johnson Landscaping, this dazzling display can be viewed from multiple locations around town including Signal Hill Mall and the Statesville Soccer Complex.

As summer winds down, the City of Statesville has once again partnered with Village Intervention Partnership to bring you the End of Summer Bash on August 2nd offering free food, activities, and school supply giveaways for families preparing for the new school year. 

Far from just filling potholes, the Street Department's 16-person team maintains 150 miles of roads while juggling sidewalk repairs, curb and gutter work, parking lot maintenance, and even emergency response during storms. Their days are unpredictable, with priorities shifting as new issues arise across the city. As Meadows puts it with a smile, "My day is never planned."

Funding presents significant challenges. The city relies on Powell Bill allocations from the state, but these funds are tied to census data collected only once every decade. Meanwhile, inflation drives up material costs, creating a gap between infrastructure needs and available resources. The team must carefully prioritize repairs based on road conditions, traffic volume, and budget constraints.

Not all streets within city limits fall under city maintenance – a fact that surprises many residents. Major thoroughfares like Broad Street and Davie Avenue are maintained by NCDOT. The city's website features a Powell Bill map where residents can identify who maintains which roads: city (black), NCDOT (red), or private (purple).

The conversation reveals fascinating details about traffic calming measures, emergency response protocols, and even some memorable calls – including the day Meadows had to remove a dead horse from a city street. From serious infrastructure discussions to lighthearted moments, this episode offers an insider's view of the dedicated professionals who maintain our urban arteries.

Have a pothole or street issue to report? Use the "Report a Problem" feature on the city's website or call the Street Department directly. Your observations help keep Statesville's streets safe and well-maintained for everyone.

ICATS stands out for its commitment to innovation and community. Riders can track their vehicle in real-time and receive automated pickup alerts via the Ecolane Mobility App, ensuring both convenience and punctuality. Beyond individual rides, ICATS partners with local organizations such as the Council on Aging and Mitchell Community College to meet broader transportation needs, and even provides emergency “will call” services for those who qualify. With plans to expand service in Statesville from 20 to about 50 stops, ICATS continues to redefine what public transit can look like in a growing county.

Learn more or apply at rideicats.com or call 704-873-9393.

Daniel Lewis, Aquatics and Athletic Manager for Statesville Parks and Recreation, pulls back the curtain on what makes these games so special. For just $10, participants can compete in everything from pickleball (the fastest-growing senior sport nationwide) to cornhole, bocce, competitive bowling, and more! The registration includes a t-shirt, medals for achievements, and access to three meal events throughout the competition period.

What truly sets North Carolina's program apart is the unique "Silver Arts" component – the only state to recognize that not everyone connects with athletic competition. This creative pathway celebrates talents through heritage arts (like woodworking and crocheting), visual arts (painting and photography), literary arts (poetry and short stories), performing arts (singing and dancing), and even cheerleading. The program creates space for every form of expression.

The most powerful moments come from participants like Doris Willard, who at 100 years old not only competed in bowling but drove herself to the event. Or the decades-long friendly rivalry between two women who competed against each other since high school, through their professional careers, and continued their competitive spirit well into their senior years.

For first-timers worried about athletic ability, Lewis offers simple advice: "Just come with an open mind and have fun." The emphasis consistently returns to fellowship – creating opportunities for connection among like-minded individuals seeking active, engaged lifestyles beyond traditional retirement activities.

Ready to redefine what it means to be 50+? Registration closes April 9th, with events running approximately three weeks starting April 11th. Register online at torchncsenioragames.org or in person at the Statesville Fitness and Activity Center. Your new community of active, engaged peers is waiting!

In this episode, we dive into the academy's history and complementing its foundational purpose—building transparency between public safety officers and the communities they serve. Through captivating discussions with Fire Marshal Pete Morrison (Statesville Fire Department) and Corporal Chan Austin (Statesville Police Department), we uncover the extensive training and hands-on activities that keep the heroes of our city prepared. Expect to hear engaging experiences from participants whose lives have been touched by the academy experience, shedding light on the teamwork that defines both police and fire departments.

Curious about what the academy entails? We'll unpack the curriculum, share testimonials, and address common misconceptions regarding the role of first responders. Whether it's fire safety training or the complexities of crime prevention, listeners will learn that there's much more beneath the surface than emergency lights and sirens.

As we wrap up, we emphasize the lifeblood of the program: fostering relationships and understanding through shared experiences. Join us on this enlightening journey, and if you feel inspired to learn more or even apply to the program yourself, don't hesitate to take action.

Beyond his uniform, Officer Aguilar's personal anecdotes bring an entertaining twist to the episode. You'll hear about his passion for fishing, including a comical tale involving yellowjackets and popsicles, and his attempts—or lack thereof—at dancing, which add a charming personal touch. His advice for aspiring law enforcement officers? Keep an open mind and explore different niches within the field. Officer Aguilar's cheerful demeanor and dedication to public service shine throughout our discussion, leaving listeners with a positive impression of Statesville's commitment to transparency and community engagement.

Tune in to get an inside look at the life and work of this remarkable officer.

Join us in empowering Statesville's residents to play a pivotal role in protecting our precious water resources. From reporting drainage system blockages to participating in the engaging storm drain marking volunteer program, we highlight the collective responsibility we share in preserving the Yadkin River Basin. Embrace the opportunity to make a difference through responsible actions and eco-friendly habits, as we provide tips for safeguarding our environment. Get involved with Randall and us as we champion transparency and public service, ensuring every storm drain is marked and our city initiatives remain robust and effective.