The year 2010 has been an interesting one locally – to say the least. Our community hit the national spotlight earlier this year when it was rumored that the American Idol winner and R&B singer Fantasia Barrino, who is from High Point but has made a home here in Charlotte, was sleeping with a married man. And while that keep local and national media buzzing (and still is) there were several local stories that we think top the list for 2010:
- Jinwright Trial – In April, the trial for Bishop Anthony L. Jinwright and his wife Harriet were began. The two were accused and convicted on federal charges of fraud, conspiracy and tax evasion.
- Finale of Gloria Pace King Lawsuit – Former United Way Director Gloria Pace King reached an approximately $700,000 settlement with the agency. In 2008, the United Way fired King amid public outcry over the size of her compensation package. King in turn sued the United Way for a questionable firing.
- Charlotte-Mecklenburg School Closings – When the budget crunch hit Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, it hit hard. The move to close schools met huge public push back and highlighted the distrust that exists in the community.
- Zahra Baker – Charlotte hit the national spotlight when the search for Zahra Baker began. In October the l10-year old girl was reported missing and eventually her remains were discovered and her parents accused of her disappearance and death.
- First 48 Comes to Charlotte – Charlotte became one of several cities to be featured on the A&E show “First 48.” Taping for the show began in April and the first shows began airing this fall.
- Library Closings – 2010’s budget woes were also responsible for cutbacks in other County agencies. Earlier this year several public libraries were in jeopardy of closing. The community rallied together to save as many libraries as they could.
- Councilman Warren Turner Sex Scandal – Charlotte City Councilman Warren Turner was accused by several female City staffers of making inappropriate comments to them. Turner denied the accusations and the City Council voted not to censure him.
- Bob Johnson Slams Charlotte Business Community – Former Charlotte Bobcats owner Bob Johnson publicly slammed Charlotte’s business community for its lack of support for minority-owned businesses.
- Michael Jordan Wants to Buy Bobcats – NBA legend and North Carolina native Michael Jordan expresses interest in buying the Charlotte Bobcats after former owner Bob Johnson says he’s selling.
- Julius Peppers Goes to Chicago – Julius Peppers leaves Charlotte for Chicago and celebrates in style.
