By DAVID BORAKS
CorneliusNews.net

Among the many social problems the growing lake Norman area faces is one that often hides beneath the surface: domestic violence. But even if you can’t see it, don’t get the idea it’s not there, says Janice, a survivor who now speaks to others about her experience, and where they can find help. Read the full story

Competitors in Our Towns Habitat for Humanity’s “Biggest Cheese in Town” contest are hosting events around the area this month to help raise money for the regional housing group. They include a Sept. 21 barbecue lunch at People’s Bank, The Aloha Cup paddle board competition, and a photography show. Read the full story

DAVIDSON - The Davidson Housing Coalition’s 8th annual Festival for Hope and Housing will fill downtown with bicyclists and festival-goers this Saturday, Sept. 8. After morning rides of 50K and 100K, the festival on the Village Green will included live music, kids’ activities and food from local restaurants.

Marcia Webster, the housing coalition’s executive director, said the festival is open to all.

“People do not have to be bike riders,” Ms. Webster said. “You can come out to the Green and have lunch. We’ve got musicians playing from 11 to 2 and we’ve got kid friendly activities.” Read the full story

The Andrew Lovedale 5K returns to Davidson College on Saturday, Sept. 1, this year featuring something missing last year: former Wildcat basketball player and inspiration Andrew Lovedale. We talk to Mr. Lovedale about his A2S Foundation‘s work in his native Nigeria, about giving back, and about some personal news this summer. (That’s a great wedding photo Andrew and Molly!) Story and photos in SPORTS»

Davidson Housing Coalition and Davidson Lands Conservancy will host fundraising festivals in downtown Davidson on successive Saturdays in September. The 8th annual Festival for Hope and Housing, including 100K and 50K bicycle rides, will be Sept. 8. And the conservancy’s Run for Green and Green Day will be Sept. 15, including a half-marathon, 10K and 5K runs. Read the full story

Looking to make some more space in your garage or attic? Have items you don’t use, but can’t bear to throw away? Consider donating them to the North Mecklenburg Senior Center garage sale. The center will host its garage sale Saturday, Aug. 25 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the senior center, 16601 Old Statesville Road in Huntersville (in the Solid Rock Christian Church). All money raised will go to support the center’s programs and activities. Read the full story

The Wakemans present a $10,000 check to Hope House Foundation. From left: Sheila Wakeman, Hope House Executive Director Fran Mathay, Hope House Program Director Val Daye, and Emily Wakeman. (Hope House photo)

The fourth annual Jetton Park Sprint Triathlon this year raised $10,000 for Hope House Foundation, serving homeless women and women with children in the Lake Norman area. The event was organized by Jeff and Sheila Wakeman of Wakeman Charities, who delivered the check to Hope House last week.  Read the full story

Eight-year-old Davidson resident Allie Sadoff writes about her decision to ride in last weekend’s 24 Hours of Booty cancer fundraising ride in Charlotte. Allie, who is in treatment for cancer, raised more than $20,000 with her Team Allie Gator. Read her story in HEALTH & FITNESS»