Good morning, Huntersville.

Residents around Lake Norman have a busy week of events starting with today’s National Night Out in Cornelius— a free safety event hosted by the local police and parks departments.

The week also offers family fitness classes, children’s playdates, a Van Morrison tribute on Thursday, a comedy show by Jim Florentine and live music on Friday, plus pet events and fun runs over the weekend.

Mecklenburg County arts organizations will receive $1.2 million in state grants from the NC Arts Council for fiscal year 2025 to 2026 — the county’s Arts and Science Council was awarded more than $335,000 to support its arts programs and operations.

The NC Board of Education is asking the General Assembly to let traditional public schools drop class rank from transcripts—like charter schools already do—as education leaders say rankings cause division.

The CDC updated its COVID-19 vaccine guidelines Monday so North Carolina health officials said anyone 65 and older or adults 18—64 with an underlying condition can get vaccinated without a prescription, though minors must have one and the uninsured may pay between $150—170 for the shot.

Kelly Ransdell with the NFPA explained this year’s Fire Prevention Week theme and gave local residents advice on how to buy, charge and dispose of lithium-ion batteries safely—her message aims to reduce fire hazards in homes.

Shea Homes bought 200 acres on Sam Furr Road for more than $25 million from Westmoreland Dairy Farm, the last operational dairy in the county—its future residential community plans are not yet public.

After Sunday's game, Rico Dowdle rushed for a career-high 206 yards on 23 carries and three catches in the Panthers' 27-24 win over the Dolphins—tying a record for second-most rushing yards by a Panthers running back—and he replaced injured Chuba Hubbard.

His strong performance boosted the team's rushing attack and the Panthers may rely on him again when they host the Cowboys in Week 6.