Front & Center

Unlock the secrets to safeguarding your community with insights straight from Corporal Chan Austin, a seasoned Crime Prevention Officer with almost 26 years of experience. As October marks both Crime Prevention Month and Domestic Violence Awareness Month, this episode is packed with vital information on how a proactive mindset and situational awareness can substantially reduce crime rates. Explore the power of community involvement through Neighborhood Watch programs and learn how you, too, can be the eyes and ears that help protect your neighborhood.

Equip yourself with practical security measures that can transform your home and community into a fortress against crime. Discover simple yet effective tactics like using landscape and motion-sensitive lighting to deter unwanted activities and find out how something as basic as locking car doors can thwart auto thefts. Corporal Alston also guides us through setting up Business Watch programs, emphasizing the importance of community collaboration in gathering critical emergency contact information. These initiatives not only bolster security but also foster a sense of unity and vigilance among residents.

As the holidays approach, tackle the increased risk of theft head-on with our expert tips. From concealing packaging of new purchases to tracking deliveries and using secure lockboxes, we've got you covered. Additionally, delve into the realm of online safety for children, as Corporal Alston sheds light on the educational programs police departments offer to help parents navigate the digital world. Learn how to protect your family from predators and scammers, ensuring a safe and joyful holiday season.

Get ready to arm yourself with vital fire safety knowledge as we welcome Fire Marshal Pete Morrison from the Statesville Fire Department to our latest episode of Front and Center.

Discover the three critical pillars of fire prevention—engineering, enforcement, and education—and learn why smoke alarms are your home's best defense. This Fire Prevention Week, Pete shares tips to ensure your smoke alarms are always functional, along with insights into the most common fire hazards like kitchen mishaps, worn wiring, and lithium batteries. You'll gain practical advice to make your home safer and understand why monthly smoke alarm checks are a must.

Our conversation doesn't stop there. Pete dives into essential home fire safety strategies, from effectively handling grease fires with fire blankets to selecting the right fire extinguisher for different types of blazes. Learn why family escape plans and exit drills are vital for keeping everyone safe in an emergency. We also cover seasonal tips for enjoying fire pits and maintaining wood-burning fireplaces safely, all while stressing the importance of regular practice and having a designated meeting spot.

This is an episode you won't want to miss, filled with life-saving information and actionable steps to keep your home and loved ones safe.

Is it possible to transform a community through collaboration and shared meals? Join us on this episode of Front and Center as we uncover the extraordinary efforts behind the Iredell Housing Fund and the United Way's impactful community initiatives. We sit down with Brett Eckerman, Executive Director of United Way in Iredell County, and Matthew Pierce, Assistant to the City Manager of Statesville, to delve into their mission of enhancing health, education, and financial stability. Brett sheds light on United Way's collaboration with 57 nonprofit organizations that made a difference in over 62,000 lives last year. Matthew provides a detailed look at the city's strategic initiatives to support homeowners, emphasizing the critical partnership with key players like Habitat for Humanity and the Statesville Housing Authority.

Furthermore, discover how the City's $190,000 financial commitment to United Way is making a tangible impact, with funds allocated to home weatherization and first-time homeowner assistance. As an exciting highlight, we explore the heartwarming community event, the Longest Table, where over 1,200 participants come together to share a meal and foster connections. This year's event will take place at Mooresville High School and Mulberry Street in Statesville, featuring food from Cheney Brothers and contributions from various community partners. Learn how this free event exemplifies the power of community collaboration and unity. Don't miss these inspiring stories of how collective efforts are transforming lives and strengthening community bonds.

What if rezoning could transform your neighborhood overnight? On this episode of Front and Center, we sit down with City Manager Ron Smith to uncover how Statesville's rapid growth is reshaping local communities. We delve into the complex processes of rezoning and annexation, revealing how converting residential zones into higher-density areas can dramatically change the landscape. Smith breaks down the crucial role of sewer systems in this transformation and discusses the delicate balance between expanding city services and maintaining quality of life. Using real-world examples like the Warren Woods and River Hills subdivisions, we explore the benefits and challenges that come with higher-density developments.

We also tackle the often misunderstood topic of city annexation. Unlike the myths, annexation in Statesville is a voluntary process that significantly bolsters the city’s tax base and fosters development. However, extending city services such as fire protection requires meticulous coordination with county services. Through a detailed look at projects like Warren Woods, we illustrate the intricate planning needed to support a growing population. We then shift our focus to future growth, examining the economic opportunities and infrastructural demands that come with a booming population. Strategic planning, capital investments, and funding mechanisms are all on the table as we envision Statesville’s thriving future. Don't miss this comprehensive look at how Statesville is gearing up for sustained growth and prosperity.

Ever wondered what it takes to be on the front lines of criminal investigations? Join us as Captain John Galliher of the Statesville Police Department shares his compelling journey within the department and his dedication to mentoring the next generation of investigators. Captain Galliher provides an insider's view of the Criminal Investigations Division (CID), detailing the responsibilities and structure of the CID and the Violent Crime Unit. Discover the emotional challenges his team faces, especially when dealing with homicide cases, and the resilience required to deliver justice to the community.

Dive into the meticulous process of forensic analysis with us, as we uncover the importance of maintaining a strict chain of custody and the detailed procedures followed in criminal investigations. Learn about the hurdles posed by limited evidence storage and the often-lengthy wait for lab results. We also emphasize the critical role of community support in crime prevention and solving cold cases, highlighting the impact of social media on juvenile crime trends. Engage with Captain Galliher’s insights on the department's initiatives to connect with youth and build a safer community. This episode is a behind-the-scenes look that every true crime enthusiast and aspiring investigator won’t want to miss.

Ready to slash your energy bills and stay cool this summer? Join us on Front and Center as we sit down with Jason Lee, Business Development Specialist for the Statesville Electric Utilities Department, to uncover the secrets to home energy efficiency. From sealing gaps and upgrading appliances to using ceiling fans effectively, Jason shares a treasure trove of tips that are as easy as they are impactful. We’ll also highlight the benefits of LED lighting, the smart use of natural light, and some timeless tricks like drying clothes outdoors. You'll discover practical tools and techniques, easily available at your local hardware store, to turn your home into an energy-saving haven.

On the flip side, we dive into how maintaining energy efficiency can make a big difference in the summer months. Jason explains why setting your thermostat to 78 degrees and investing in a smart thermostat can significantly cut costs. He also sheds light on the benefits of running major appliances during off-peak hours to ease the strain on the power grid and avoid potential rolling outages. With Jason’s expert insights, you’ll learn how to keep your home comfortable while saving money and contributing to a more stable power grid.

Don’t miss this episode packed with valuable advice to help you stay cool and efficient all season long.

Ever wondered how Statesville's emergency services handle the bustling summer months with more property crimes and traffic incidents? 

On the latest episode of Front and Center, Chief David Onley (Statesville Police Department) and Chief Glenn Kurfees (Statesville Fire Department) talk about strategic adjustments, the significance of locking up property, and the benefits of vacation checks. Plus, discover how community engagement through summer programs can create positive youth interactions and contribute to overall safety.

Did you know that improper use of fire pits and fireworks can lead to serious safety hazards? Chief Kurfees and Chief Onley reveal essential fire safety regulations to follow, especially during hot and dry conditions. From supervising your backyard fire pit to managing large fireworks events, get expert advice to prevent common summer mishaps. We'll also tackle the frequent confusion between fireworks and gunshots and share strategies for maintaining public safety during high-activity celebrations like July 4th and New Year's Eve.

As Statesville grows, how do emergency services keep up? This episode sheds light on the increasing demands on both the Statesville Fire and Police Departments due to the city's rapid expansion. Learn about the critical role of strategic planning and collaboration between departments to maintain effective response times and service quality. You'll also hear about the recent Public Safety Academy, an initiative that offers a hands-on experience of the diverse roles within public safety, emphasizing the importance of community involvement.

Join us for an engaging conversation that highlights the vital efforts behind Statesville's public safety operations.

 How do School Resource Officers (SROs) foster trust with students and create lasting positive relationships law enforcement?  In our latest episode of Front and Center, we sit down with Sergeant Devin Schenz from the Statesville Police Department to uncover the answer. April and Nakayla take you through Sergeant Schenz's remarkable journey from a Patrol Officer to an SRO Supervisor, sharing his wealth of experience in criminal investigations and forensics. Learn about the everyday duties of SROs and how they ensure school safety while acting as invaluable community resources. From running clubs to stocking snacks in their offices, discover how SROs make schools a welcoming place for students.

Ever wondered what it takes to become an SRO? Sergeant Schenz breaks down the rigorous training and qualifications required, including courses in legal and juvenile law, crisis intervention, and active shooter training. We also discuss community engagement activities like "Popsicles with SROs" as a way to foster relationships with students year-round. It's all about maintaining a supportive and safe atmosphere, even outside the school walls. Sergeant Schenz highlights the importance of building trust with students through consistent and respectful interactions, helping shift negative perceptions and creating a more positive school environment.

Find out how shared interests like dance, music, and humor can bridge the gap between students and officers. This episode explores the critical role of SROs in conflict mediation, classroom education on vital topics like suicide prevention and drug awareness, and mentoring students interested in criminal justice careers. We wrap up with heartfelt gratitude for our local law enforcement's tireless efforts in ensuring the safety and well-being of our children.

Tune in to hear Kayla's engaging stories from her experiences in schools and get a sneak peek at what's coming next in our ongoing series.

Unlock the secrets to a healthier, happier community lifestyle with H Patton III, Facility Supervisor of Statesville Fitness and Activity Center. In our latest episode, H pulls back the curtain on the center's impressive 15-year legacy of fostering fitness and fun for all ages. Whether you're scaling the climbing wall, perfecting your Warrior Pose, or splashing with the kids in the leisure pool, H's tour of the center's robust offerings—including Zumba, yoga, and the innovative YouthFit program—proves there's something for everyone. And for the athletically inclined, learn how agility camps and local school collaborations are elevating sports programs to new heights.

But the pulse of Statesville Fitness and Activity Center beats far beyond the gym floor. H reveals how the center knits the fabric of the community together with spirited events like the Arbor Day Celebrations and the notorious Turkey Bingo, fostering laughter and connections that last a lifetime (benefitting Special Olympics of Iredell County). From Senior Games that spark friendly competition to the inclusive summer pool sessions and Aqua Zumba fun, we explore how the center maintains its status as a beloved hub of activity. Step into the heart of community engagement with us and witness firsthand how the Statesville Fitness and Activity Center is not just about working out—it's about living well, together.

Discover the unsung heroes of urban aesthetics and safety, Jay Daniels and Joseph Campbell, Statesville's dedicated code enforcement officers. They join us to reveal the intricacies of their work, from untangling the web of local ordinances to wrestling with rogue lawns and mischievous vehicles. It's a candid look at the balance between enforcement and empathy, where fines take a backseat to forging partnerships with the community. With stories of unexpected residential pigs and proactive problem-solving, this episode promises a unique peek behind the curtain of city maintenance.

Our conversation takes a serious turn as we navigate the murky waters of environmental and health hazards stemming from neglected properties and waste mismanagement. Jay and Joseph shine a light on the legalities and responsibilities that homeowners may overlook, all while emphasizing the shared goal of a clean and safe neighborhood. They unravel the complexities of noise complaints and the fine line that code enforcement walks, all to keep vermin at bay and our communities thriving.

Lastly, we dissect the nuances of zoning regulations and the steps you can take to keep your neighborhood in check. Our guests guide us through the labyrinth of reporting channels, from animal overpopulation to junk vehicles, and explain how these issues are more than just cosmetic—they're about compliance and community standards. This episode isn't just an exploration of city code—it's an invitation to become an active participant in the dialogue between residents and city departments, shaping the place we all call home.