Good morning, Huntersville.

On Black Friday, November 28, Charlotte's hardcore bands will host a benefit at The Milestone Club to support Levine Children's Hospital — admission requires one new, unwrapped toy or a $10 donation.

Fronted by Screwed Ends' Jon Sanchez, the bands will perform while offering to pick up donations from the Charlotte area including Huntersville — the event aims to bring holiday cheer to children.

This weekend around Lake Norman residents will celebrate National Pickle Day at 3 p.m. at Primal Brewing, enjoy Jazz Night with the Wilson Jazz band at 6 p.m., and see a country music show by Adam Church with Bailey Marie at 8 p.m. today.

On Saturday and Sunday, family-friendly events include a hybrid bass tournament, two Christmas bazaars, a farmers market, a sports card show, a food fight contest, a sourdough workshop, a makers market, a dog adoption event, tree lighting and a historical cemetery tour.

Visit Lake Norman received a Gold Marketing Achievement Award on November 13 — its monthly newsletter featuring seasonal blogs, partner spotlights and upcoming events earned the honor from the North Carolina Travel Industry Association — which recognized the group's work in promoting local tourism.

Senior Zoey Boukedes started Yay!Day to spread positive thinking and raise funds for scholarships and local charities.

Her nonprofit, which has raised over $225,000 (with 250 student participants at Hough High), will host a spring comedy show and more events to build on her ideas.

THC products in Huntersville may be banned when a spending resolution to reopen the government becomes law — the measure would make THCA and Delta-8 THC illegal and force businesses like The Hemp Doctor to close within 365 days.

Owner Robert Shade said he serves customers from age 4 to 95 and urged consumers to call their state representatives to help change the amendment that could decimate a $70 billion industry.

CMPD is sharing holiday shopping safety tips to help local shoppers secure their belongings and avoid theft risks during the busy season—residents are urged to remain alert in stores and parking areas.

The USDA issued new guidance today calling on states to speed up full November SNAP benefits, and North Carolina officials confirmed that families will see benefits on their EBT cards by tomorrow — local food pantries have extended hours to handle increased demand.