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Oct. 17. Police officers and firefighters from Cornelius, Davidson, and Huntersville were honored this week by the Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce at the annual Public Safety Luncheon at Northstone Country Club. Nearly 100 members of the respective departments, along with local government and business representatives, attended the event.

Figaro

Cornelius Mayor Woody Washam and Police Chief David Baucom presented the Policeman of the Year award to Lieutenant Matthew Figaro. Figaro joined the Cornelius Police Department in 2009, served as a detective from 2010 to 2016, and as a sergeant from 2016 to 2022.

“What makes Lieutenant Figaro stand out is his positive outlook and determination to improve not only himself, but those around him,” said Chamber President Bill Russell, reading remarks submitted with CPD’s nomination. “He approaches challenges with optimism, viewing them as opportunities to grow and push the department forward. His constant positive attitude creates an environment where officers feel supported, encouraged, and motivated to be the best they can be.”

Graham

Washam also joined Cornelius Fire Department Deputy Chief Andrew Bridges to present the Firefighter of the Year award to Kyle Graham. Graham joined the department in 2019 and also serves as secretary and chaplain. He began his career as a junior firefighter in New York in 1998 before moving to North Carolina. Because the department is part-time, Graham also works full time in finance with Lowe’s Home Improvement.

“He has worked extremely hard to gain the respect of his peers and has become one of the most dedicated and reliable members,” Russell said in prepared remarks. “Kyle is the firefighter you always want to see come in the door. You know he will give 100 percent each day. He always conducts himself in a professional manner and keeps a smile on his face throughout his entire shift.”

Davidson recognized detective Rachel Thornton and battalion chief Dale Brown. Recipients from Huntersville were firefighter Bill Suthard and officer Bill Broadway. Broadway passed away earlier this year after a battle with cancer.

Photos courtesy LKN Chamber and Jason Benavides