📰 Today’s Local News from WSPC 107.3 FM & 1010 AM
Also heard on Magic 103.3 FM
Tuesday, October 14, 2025
🕙 Your mid-morning briefing from Dave Andrews in the WSPC newsroom
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🚔 Opium Trafficking Arrest in Stanly County
Authorities have arrested 41-year-old Frankie Gary Stevens, charging him with trafficking opium or heroin, possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or distribute a Schedule II substance, and several related offenses.
- He also faces charges for maintaining a vehicle or dwelling for controlled substances, possession of drug paraphernalia, and a felony probation violation.
- Stevens is being held at the Stanly County Detention Center under a $170,000 bond.
🏙️ Locust Council Reviews Zoning Changes
At Thursday’s Locust Town Council meeting, leaders considered three zoning change applications:
- ✅ Locust Mower — approved to redevelop the rear building at 117 North Central Avenue for lawnmower and small engine repair.
- ⏸️ Two Buck Saloon — developer Sal Loon has worked with the Locust City Council for months to repurpose the former Buzzed Viking building as a new bar and restaurant. After forgoing some exterior changes and agreeing to drop the word “Saloon” from the signage, council members still had concerns and tabled the vote until next month.
- ✅ Ray Ray’s Chicken Shack — approved to open a quick-service chicken restaurant in the former Highway 55 Burgers & Shakes location. It will be the chain’s fourth location.
Customers visiting another Ray Ray’s Chicken Shack shared good reviews:
“It was pretty good,” said Connor Prisk of Winston-Salem, after trying the regular tender combo.
His mother added, “I had the 12-count nuggets. It was really good — I was really impressed.”
💡 Applications Open for Downtown Catalyst Grant
The City of Albemarle is now accepting applications for its award-winning Downtown Catalyst Grant Program, which supports building improvements and revitalization projects in the Downtown Municipal Service District (MSD).
- Applications are due by 5:00 p.m. Monday, November 10, 2025, at albemarlenc.gov/downtowncatalystgrant.
- Up to $50,000 is available per project, with $90,000 in total funding this cycle.
- Eligible projects include façade work, building stabilization, and interior improvements such as furniture, fixtures, and equipment.
Economic Development Director Lindsey Almond said:
“Public–private partnerships like the Catalyst Grant help our small businesses take on transformative projects that might otherwise be out of reach.”
Launched in 2022, the program has already generated over $1.5 million in private investment and earned statewide recognition from ElectriCities of North Carolina.
👮♂️ Big Turnout for Albemarle Police Community Night Out
The Albemarle Police Department hosted its annual Community Night Out Saturday at the YMCA Park, drawing a strong crowd despite rainy weather.
Kids lined up for a chance to dunk Chief Manley in the dunk tank.
“Very, very wet,” laughed Chief Manley. “I’ve been in here almost two hours.”
Officer Tipton said the event was a success:
“We didn’t think a lot of people would come out because of the weather, but there’s been a great turnout. Lots of smiles, lots of fun — though I think the Chief might be ready for a break.”
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