CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV) - It's a sign and sound of the times. Chances are someone you know is packing heat. "Most people are scared of something, they hear a bump in the night, they read a crime report, the Lancaster incident."

It might sound cliche, but the reality for many people is that police just can't be everywhere at once. That leads many to places like Carolina Sporting Arms where Donald Ingram is noticing a trend in business.

"Most people don't just want to buy a gun, they want to have it at their disposal; either hidden in their car or on their person when they go shopping somewhere," Ingram said.

To meet that need, Ingram's store offers classes to obtain concealed carry permits. It's a class that is filling up everyday. Numbers obtained from the Mecklenburg County Sheriff's Office certainly point to that.

CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV) -  The NFL Former Players Association, Cub Scout Pack #72 and AT-NET Services is hosting the first Charlotte Super Food Bowl. The event will be a chance for those in the community to meet current and past NFL stars. Attendees can play Madden 2012 against the players, receive an autographed football or photo (taken at the event with the players) or listen to a Super Bowl prediction given by the players themselves. All proceeds benefit Loaves & Fishes.

Event Details
Date:  Thursday, February 2nd
Hours:  4pm to 7pm
Admission:  50 pounds of food
Venue:  AT-NET Services
Address:  9625-D Southern Pine Blvd., Charlotte

Need more information?  Please click HERE or call 864.370.8244.

CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV) - Mecklenburg County Manager Harry Jones may be taking a leave of absence for medical reasons.

County spokesperson Danny Diehl confirmed Jones' possible sick leave with WBTV on Wednesday.

Mecklenburg County Board of Commissioners Chairman Harold Cogdell, Jr. released this statement to WBTV on his situation:

"Our prayers and thoughts are with Harry and his family as he addresses this medical situation. We wish him well and will respect his privacy during this time. I am confident that County Manager Jones has in place contingencies to maintain the smooth operation of County government. He has a very capable executive team and department directors to support the day-to-day work under Mr. Jones' leadership." 

Jones has been serving as county manager since October of 2000.

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