Tragic Shootout at Child Custody Exchange Shocks Community

Edible Arrangements is a franchised retail company that creates and sells artistically arranged fresh-fruit bouquets, chocolate-dipped fruit and a broader portfolio of giftable food items designed for celebrations, corporate gifting and delivery occasions. The business is built around visually striking arrangements that combine floral-design techniques with fresh produce, plus complementary products such as fruit cups, smoothies, baked goods and seasonal gift collections[1][5]. Founded in 1999 by Tariq Farid, the first store opened in East Haven, Connecticut, after Farid adapted his floral-design background to create fruit “bouquets.” Farid developed the company’s early technology, training and operations systems and began franchising in 2001 with the first franchise in Waltham, Massachusetts[1][3]. Rapid expansion followed through the 2000s: by 2008 the brand reported roughly $195 million in annual revenue and by the early 2010s had surpassed 1,100 stores across the U.S. and many international markets including Canada, the Middle East, parts of Asia and Europe[1][3]. Key achievements include consistent franchise-industry recognition—regular placement in Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500 and lists of fastest-growing and top global franchises—and sustained retail innovation such as national advertising campaigns, licensed character arrangements and cause-driven promotions like Breast Cancer Awareness collections that donated proceeds to nonprofits[3][4]. In recent years the company has modernized and diversified its brand and product mix, rebranding broadly as Edible® to reflect offerings beyond fruit arrangements and investing in e-commerce, store technology and franchisee support systems[2][5]. The founder’s investment in proprietary software and later acquisitions to support franchise operations positioned Edible Arrangements as an early tech-enabled franchise model[3]. Notable aspects for business and technology audiences include the firm’s vertically integrated franchise support (training, supply chain and custom POS/operations software),

The **Mint Hill Police Department (MHPD)** serves as the primary law enforcement agency for Mint Hill, North Carolina, a suburban town near Charlotte, dedicated to safeguarding community safety and security through proactive policing and rapid response.[1] Established to protect Mint Hill's growing population, MHPD operates with a steadfast commitment to public trust, employing modern tools like data analytics via platforms such as CityProtect for transparent crime reporting and community engagement—mirroring tech-driven efficiencies seen in forward-thinking municipal operations.[3] While specific founding dates remain undocumented in available records, the department has evolved into a professional force emphasizing prevention, with officers trained in de-escalation and crisis intervention amid rising suburban demands. Key achievements include fostering low crime rates through community partnerships, though recent events underscore operational risks. On December 26, 2025, MHPD officers responded to a child custody exchange at an Edible Arrangements store on Matthews-Mint Hill Road. A suspect produced a firearm, sparking a shootout that left **two officers in critical condition** and the suspect deceased—highlighting the department's high-stakes resolve in volatile scenarios.[2] Currently, MHPD maintains active operations, leveraging digital technologies like cookies and pixels for data collection to enhance intelligence and public safety apps, positioning it as a tech-savvy agency in local governance.[3] As of late 2025, the department supports Mint Hill's business corridor, balancing routine patrols with emergency responses amid national scrutiny on police tech and accountability. Notable aspects include its agility in small-town policing, where officers double as community liaisons, and recent adaptations to cyber threats in reporting systems. For business and tech enthusiasts, MHPD exemplifies how AI-enhanced platforms streamline law enforcement, though the ongoing officer recovery from the shootout raises questions about officer wellness tech and risk mitigation in high-growth areas. (298 words)[1][2][3]

Empire Pizza is a family-owned casual dining chain specializing in New York-style pizza, flatbreads, award-winning wings, classic sandwiches, burgers, pasta, fresh salads, and bar food, paired with rotating craft beers and daily drink specials.[1][2][4][7] Founded in 2009 by the Doulaveris family in Rock Hill, South Carolina, the business draws inspiration from generations of home cooking and a commitment to premium ingredients.[1][2] Starting as a single location, it expanded to four outlets across York and Lancaster Counties within a decade, fueled by strong community loyalty and positive word-of-mouth.[1][2] Customer reviews on Yelp praise its diverse menu, huge portions, non-greasy garlic knots, affordable bar fare like grilled chicken sandwiches with tater tots, and excellent service—calling it a "favorite spot" for families and casual gatherings.[1] Key achievements include this rapid regional growth, a reputation for quality (e.g., "best ingredients make for a great slice"), and diversification into catering for all occasions, emphasizing flavor and passion.[1][2][4] The chain now offers franchising opportunities, inviting entrepreneurs to join its tradition-focused model in the competitive food and beverage sector.[1][5] Employee feedback on Indeed highlights a supportive culture: low-stress roles for delivery drivers and cooks, fair owners with "hearts of gold," flexible hours, advancement potential, and fun coworkers—though some note typical management inconsistencies during slow periods.[3] Currently operational with hiring underway for "smiling faces," Empire Pizza thrives on its "Eat. Drink. Gather" ethos, blending tradition with modern appeal like specialty pizzas and happy hour deals.[1][2] Notable aspects include its UK-registered entity (Empire Pizza Limited) and presence in other U.S. spots like Jacksonville, NC, and Watertown, SD, suggesting broader ambitions beyond South Carolina.[3][6] For business enthusiasts, its franc