Mallard creek barbeque brings DNC subplot

CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV) -It is one of the rites of fall, and the changing of the seasons in Northern Mecklenburg County is defined each year by the Mallard Creek Barbeque.

Politics and pork are what's behind this successful marriage which has been going since the 1920's, but understand this year's event comes months before the 2012 Democratic National Convention.

Charlotte businessman C.D. Dick Spangler knows what's at stake for our community.

"It's a big thing for Charlotte, and so if it's carried out very well it will be an asset," he said.

Bruton Smith who owns Charlotte Motor Speedway was another visitor to the event.

Smith admits members of the organizing committee may be looking to host an event at the track.

" Maybe they're thinking of doing something out there, "he said."Because we could house a couple hundred thousand people."

Republican Mayoral candidate Scott Stone took a shot at incumbent Anthony Foxx and asked that he use a sign a pledge not to use union labor that would be associated with the convention.

Stone said, "Every single person that unemployed needs a job and they don't want to see those jobs for the DNC go to out of state unions."

Mayor Foxx fired back at Stone's assessment.

"Probably theater. Probably theatrics is the best word," he said.

Those have brought vision to this community call the convention a defining moment.

"They won't think we're in Virginia or South Carolina, "Spangler said.

Smith agrees when it comes to the CH factor that occasionally defines Charlotte.

"You've heard people get confused, Charleston.

That's irritating when I hear that, we are Charlotte," Smith said.