The 04-18-2025 Edition of Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly
By Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com
MATTHEWS – Town commissioners reviewed a rezoning proposal April 14 that would add 136 townhomes on nearly 12 acres next to Mecklenburg County’s Idlewild Park and a Lidl store.
Bridget Grant, a land-use consultant with Moore & Van Allen, framed the Lilly Townhomes rezoning as a solution for the lack of housing diversity and for-sale homes in Matthews.
Grant pointed to 12 homes for sale in Matthews between $250,000 and $550,000. She also mentioned townhomes, duplexes and condos account for just 6% of the town’s housing stock.
One of the most appealing pieces of the project is the deed restrictions. No unit can be available for rent for 18 months from purchase. No more than 20% of the units can be for rent. And no entity or a liate may own more than two units within the community.
“We’re basically trying to demonstrate a commitment to keep these for sale in the long term,” Grant told commissioners.
Mayor John Higdon said he was happy to see the deed restrictions in the proposal. He’s heard of entire neighborhoods in Mecklenburg County that have been sold to venture capitalists and turned into rentals.
Planning Board Chairman Howie Labiner would like to get more of a commitment from the developer as far as a ordable or attainable housing. Labiner said they hear these units will be “under $400,000” with no parameters regarding area median income.
“My concern is what’s to stop this thing from being built and then these units going up at $600,000,” Labiner said. “ at’s what I’m trying to get because the tradeo here is
By Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com
MATTHEWS – The Town of Matthews has hired James Avens as its next police chief.
Avens not only serves as interim chief of the Elizabeth City Police Department but he is also president of the North Carolina Police Executives Association.
“We went through an exhaustive interview process to nd him,” Matthews Town Manager Becky Hawke said April 14. “He really stood out from the very beginning, not just his background but his demeanor, the way he focused on community, the way that he has taken care of the police departments
Communities in western Union County have built spring festivals around relatable themes such as aliens, arts, dogs, food and movies. e best part is you don’t have to make tough decisions about which one to go to – you can catch them all without having to teleport. We included three of the Matthews-Mint Hill festivals published last week to balance out the list.
Indian Trail: Paws in the Park Crooked Creek Park will be lled with pooches and their beloved hoomans at Indian Trail Parks and Recreation’s Paws in the Park. Aside from easy access to Crooked Creek’s dog park, the festival o ers games and vendors that would delight the likes of Dorothy and Toto, Scooby and Shaggy, and Turner and Hooch.
• When: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 3
• Where: 5900 Oakwood Lane, Indian Trail
• Details: indiantrail.org
Matthews: Beats n’ Bites
It’s sensory overload when the grass blades tickle your feet, the whi of food trucks hits your nostrils and the sounds of classic rock and Motown music start jogging old memories. e Town of Matthews does all that with its Beats ‘n Bites series at Stumptown Park. e series kicked o last month but you
he has led in the past.”
Avens has worked in law enforcement since September 2001.
He served in sheri ’s o ces in Halifax and Northampton counties before joining the Weldon Police Department in 2006. Avens was promoted to chief of police during his 12 years with the Weldon Police Department.
He joined the Elizabeth City Police Department in 2018 as deputy chief and accepted the role of interim chief in May 2024 following the retirement of Phillip Webster.
“ e City of Elizabeth City is extraordinarily thankful to Interim Chief Avens for his years as our deputy chief and interim chief, and we know he’ll continue to do great things in this next endeavor,” according to a news release from Elizabeth City.
Avens will start his new role with the
can still catch performances by Carolina Soul Band (Top 40 and Motown) on April 25 and
e Unknown Artist Band (classic rock) on May 30. Music starts at 6 p.m.
• When: 5 to 9 p.m. April 25 and May 30
• Where: 120 S. Trade St.
• Details: matthewsfun.com
Mint Hill: Tina Ross Afternoon in the Park
The Town of Mint Hill, along with EDIFICE, will sponsor the annual Tina Ross Afternoon in the Park, a tribute to an educator and public servant that loved the town and the arts.
More than 40 artists will display, demonstrate and sell their handmade items at Mint Hill Veterans Memorial Park. Find oil paintings, pottery, textiles and jewelry. Catch performances by Butler High School (A Cappella and Choir), Legacy eater and Music Company, and School of Rock.
• When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 26
• Where: 8850 Fairview Road
• Details: minthillevents.org
Mint Hill: Fetching Fun Festival
e Town of Mint Hill’s inaugural Fetching Fun Festival will feature activities catered to your four-legged friends. Bring them to enjoy an afternoon at Mint Hill Founders Park. Walk the newly cut trails, meet the police department’s K9 unit, see pets available
we may be willing to let you go much denser than almost anyone else can in return for attainable units. I’m concerned there is not a parameter or gure in here to prevent that from happening.”
Neighbor Alex Freeman had many more concerns, mostly about tra c. He was the only citizen to speak during the April 14 public hearing.
Freeman said the entrance to the townhomes would be 750 feet from the Margaret Wallace Road and Idlewild Road intersection, which he said arguably has the worst tra c in town.
“This proposal is the antithesis of the
AVENS TO LEAD MATTHEWS POLICE DEPARTMENT
Matthews Police Department on June 2.
“I’m honored to have the opportunity to serve the Matthews community,” Avens said. “Matthews is a vibrant and welcoming town with a strong commitment to public safety. I’m excited to work with the dedicated professionals of the Matthews Police Department to continue building trust and collaboration with the community.”
The Matthews Police Department has been led by Interim Chief Penny Dunn since February and Maj. Roy Sisk from September 2024 until his retirement in January.
Mike Clesceri was the last permanent chief. Clesceri had to resign in 2024 after six months on the job due to “unforeseen personal circumstances.”
Festivals have alien, dog & food truck themes
for adoption from CMPD Animal Care and Control and visit local vendors including veterinary care and dog-themed human treats.
• When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 3
• Where: 9801 Brief Road
• Details: facebook.com/minthillevents
Stallings: The Spring Spectacle Here’s something you don’t see everyday – an alien invasion. e Town of Stallings is injecting its Spring Spectacle with an alien theme. Stallings Municipal Park will transform into Area 50, where children can engage in space-theme activities, crafts and games – maybe even extraterrestrials. e town is partnering with Monroe Science Center and e Schiele Museum of Natural History as well as hosting food vendors like Boss Lady Lemonade, Hungry Howie’s Pizza and Sauce Southern Smoke.
• When: Noon to 4 p.m. April 26
• Where: 340 Stallings Road, Stallings
• Details: stallingsnc.org
Waxhaw: Kaleidoscope Fest
Kaleidoscope Fest is one of the Town of Waxhaw’s signature events. It highlights arts and cultures from around the world at Downtown Park. Main stage performances feature Afro-Caribbean, Bollywood, Irish, Tahitian/Hawaiian and technical-style dance
Envision Matthews plan,” Freeman said. Freeman envisions a tra c nightmare in that area when you also factor a proposed 64-unit townhome project across the street and a senior independent living center being developed behind the Lidl.
e town and a consultant are still reviewing the tra c impact analysis. at review will be done by the time the planning board reviews the request.
e town’s transportation advisory committee recommends two changes:
• The driveway to Margaret Wallace Road should have two exit lanes (a thru left and a right) and one entrance lane.
• Require a 10-foot sidewalk along Margaret Wallace Road connecting the site’s sidewalk to the existing sidewalk at Treeside Lane.
e development team is pushing back on the sidewalk, noting that 600 feet is on park property and will take a considerable amount of work for potential surveying, regrading, tree clearing and avoiding power lines. Commissioners may decide on this as early as next month.
Cotham’s transit bill wins praise
By Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com
MATTHEWS – Mayor John Higdon is encouraged by a new bill filed by N.C. Rep. Tricia Cotham that would open the door for the Silver Light East to potentially continue as a light rail project.
Cotham filed House Bill 948, The PAVE Act, on April 10. PAVE stands for Projects for Advancing VehicleInfrastructure Enhancements.
“Rep. Tricia Cotham has put forth an alternate transit bill called the PAVE Act, which is in my estimation a great improvement over Sen. (Vickie) Sawyer’s bill because it would allow additional funding beyond 40% to be allocated to light rail,” Higdon told colleagues April 14. “So from that standpoint, it’s a much better bill.”
Higdon said Matthews would have to convince other leaders in Mecklenburg County to support this bill as opposed to the other legislation that puts a 40% cap on transit projects if voters approve a 1-cent sales tax.
The LYNX Red Line from Uptown Charlotte to Lake Norman has been identi ed as the priority among transit projects, leaving limited funding for other projects under a 40% transit cap.
e Charlotte Area Transit System has been getting input from the community about how to proceed with other projects like the Silver Line East from Uptown Charlotte to Matthews and the Blue Line extension into Pineville and Ballantyne. ree of the four scenarios shared with the public involve converting the Silver Line East into a Bus Rapid Transit line.
Cotham’s bill not only allows for increased transit funding, but also calls for a value engineering study on the Silver Line East as a light rail line. is would allow for a study of funding options, including “additional local taxes or fees not currently authorized, including additional sales taxes, taxes on parking facilities and
James Avens
Bridget Grant, land-use consultant with Moore & Van Allen, said the Lilly Townhomes project was originally supposed to be 288 multifamily units but was reduced to 136 townhomes after community feedback.
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Mecklenburg County towns react to Rep. Cotham’s PAVE Act
CHARLOTTE – Managers for five of the six Mecklenburg County towns, as well as the county, issued a joint statement April 10 regarding N.C. Rep. Tricia Cotham’s House Bill 948, The P.A.V.E. Act. PAVE stands for Projects for Advancing Vehicle-Infrastructure Enhancements.
Here is the statement:
The managers of Mecklenburg County, the City of Charlotte, and the towns of Cornelius, Davidson, Huntersville, Mint Hill and Pineville, representing 97% of the county, appreciate North Carolina Representative Tricia Cotham for
ling House Bill 948, e P.A.V.E. Act.
e managers have prided themselves on presenting a potential solution to lawmakers at the North Carolina General Assembly that is transformational in solving the transportation concerns the county faces over the next three decades.
We appreciate the thoughtful considerations that Representative Cotham has taken and the managers look forward to working with her and her colleagues in the House and Senate to advance legislation that increases mobility choices for the people of Mecklenburg County and our visitors through a referendum that
will be decided by the voting public in Mecklenburg county.
As with Senate Bill 145 and 584, the bill filed by Representative Cotham today supports the primary aspects of the proposal sent to lawmakers at the end of last year.
A new, independent authority overseeing the transit planning and governance across the county with the sales tax revenue dedicated to increasing connectivity to the economic hubs throughout Mecklenburg County, and the opportunity to make improvements to the county-wide bus system and expand micro-transit across the county.
Additionally, the 40% for road
Creativity fuels Alzheimer's Association fundraiser
CHARLOTTE – June 20 is not only the summer solstice and the day with the most light. It’s also when Charlotte-area residents will join supporters across North Carolina to participate in the Alzheimer’s Association’s The Longest Day through an activity of their choice.
ey’ll use their creativity and passion to raise money and awareness to advance Alzheimer’s Association care, support and research e orts.
e event also aligns with Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month in June.
Participants in e Longest Day engage in fundraising activities like sports tournaments, card games, golf, hiking, biking and bake sales
on any day that works for them. Many continue their fundraising e orts year-round to amplify their impact. Fundraisers can be held at home, workplaces, community settings or any location that accommodates the chosen activity.
More than 200 fundraisers are being organized across North Carolina.
e creativity of participants includes events like a car show in Winston-Salem, a family in Asheville that makes and sells jam, a senior living community in Hillsborough that will hold a chicken race, and a gentleman taking a road trip in a vintage car in Wilmington to name a few.
e statewide goal for e Longest Day is
funding remains for the city and individual towns to support the growth seen in congestion and increased travel times.
The managers of Mecklenburg County, the City of Charlotte, and the towns of Cornelius, Davidson, Huntersville, Mint Hill and Pineville are grateful to Representative Cotham for her leadership and willingness to be part of Mecklenburg County’s continual evolution. Transportation infrastructure will continue being a major determining factor in the health, safety and quality of life of our community, and e P.A.V.E. Act will play a major role in how we move forward.
$500,000 by the end of the season on Aug. 31.
“We encourage local residents across eastern North Carolina to join us in making e Longest Day season the biggest yet in 2025,” said Katherine Lambert, CEO of Alzheimer’s Association - Western Carolina Chapter. “All it takes is a bit of creativity and a desire to make a di erence in the ght against Alzheimer’s and other dementia. Together, the strength of our light will outshine the darkness of Alzheimer’s.” Visit alz.org/thelongestday or call 800-2723900 to host a fundraiser or to learn more about the campaign. Register by June 5 to receive an o cial campaign shirt before e Longest Day.
Charlotte companies recognized by labor leader for safety
CHARLOTTE – N.C. Labor Commissioner Luke Farley recognized Charlotte-area employers and employees at the annual Safety Awards Banquet on April 8 at the Embassy Suites by Hilton.
e Safety and Health Council of North Carolina hosted the event. During his keynote remarks, Farley emphasized the importance of creating a statewide culture of workplace safety.
“As labor commissioner, my top priority is making sure North Carolina workers go home safe and healthy at the end of every workday,” Farley said. “It’s an honor to travel our great state and recognize the businesses and individuals who’ve earned these safety awards – not just for what they’ve achieved, but for their daily commitment to creating safe workspaces.”
The awards honor on-the-job safety achievements of each recipient during 2024. Recipients recognized are in Charlotte and surrounding counties.
To qualify for an award, businesses must be free of fatalities at the site for which the award is given.
Gold awards are presented to companies with a DART (Days Away, Restricted or Transferred) rate at least 50% below the statewide average for their industry. Silver awards are based on cases involving days away from work, with the incidence rate at least 50% be-
low the industry average. Below are companies from our coverage area:
SILVER AWARDS
Criteria: Rate of days from work must be at least 50% below the industry average.
Atrium Health Infusion Centers, Infusion Center - Abbey Place
Atrium Health Primary Care, South Charlotte Internal Medicine Town of Matthews, Fire and EMS
Second Consecutive Year
Atrium Health, Sardis Oaks
Nursing Center
GOLD AWARDS
Criteria: Rate of days away from work, job transfer or restriction must be at least 50% below the industry average.
First Year
Atrium Health, Behavioral Health Psychiatry and Counseling
- Davidson Atrium Health, Indian Trail Pediatrics
Atrium Health, LC Union
Pediatrics
Atrium Health Primary Care,
Denver Internal and Family
Medicine Atrium Health Primary Care, Lemmond Farm Family
Medicine
Blue Dot Readi-Mix, Monroe Plant
Blurebar
Choate Construction Company, Charlotte
Martin Marietta, Matthews Quarry
McGee Brothers Company Inc., Charlotte Division
McGee Brothers Company Inc., Monroe Division
McGee Brothers Company Inc.
Mecklenburg County Government, Land Use and Environmental Services
Mecklenburg Medical Group, Matthews
Novant Health, Matthews
Medical Center
Novant Health, Mint Hill
Medical Center
Novant Health, South Park
Surgery Center
Orbia Polymer Solutions (Alphagary)
Second Consecutive Year
Atrium Health, Weight Management Pineville
Atrium Health Infusion Centers, Pineville
Blue Dot Readi-Mix, Pineville
Plant
Concrete & Materials Placement
Doggett Concrete Construction, Charlotte Division
Mecklenburg Medical Group, Ballantyne
Novant Health, Ballantyne
Ambulatory Surgery Center
Novant Health, Ballantyne
Medical Center
Sanger Heart And Vascular Institute, Pineville - Vein
Sunbelt Rentals PCO40
Town of Matthews, Administrative Department
ird Consecutive Year
Atrium Health Infusion Centers, Southpark
Dove Internal Medicine, Monroe
Mecklenburg County, Park
Operations Division
Sanger Heart and Vascular Institute, Ballantyne
Sanger Heart and Vascular Institute, Pineville
Fourth Consecutive Year
Atrium Health Primary Care, Mint Hill Commons Family
Medicine
Vulcan Construction Materials
LP, Mideast Division - Clear Creek
Quarry
Vulcan Construction Materials
LP, Mideast Division - Pineville Quarry
Fifth Consecutive Year
Town of Matthews, Parks and Recreation
Town of Pineville, Public Works Department
Seventh Consecutive Year
Atrium Health Primary Care, Randolph Internal Medicine
Edi ce Construction
Town of Pineville, Parks And Recreation
11th Consecutive Year
Town of Pineville, Administration Department
Town of Pineville, Telephone Company
18th Consecutive Year
LeChase Construction Services, Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools
Project
MILLION HOUR
Criteria: They are awarded to companies which accumulate one million employee hours with no injuries or illnesses involving days away from work.
• Doggett Concrete Construction – 1 Million Hours (March 12, 2020, to Dec. 31, 2024)
• Novant Health Ballantyne
Medical Center – 1 Million Hours (Jan. 1, 2023, to Dec. 31, 2024)
• Novant Health Mint Hill
Medical Center – 1 Million Hours
(April 24, 2023, to Dec. 31, 2024)
• Novant Health Matthews
Medical Center – 3 Million Hours
(June 23, 2022, to Dec. 31,2024)
The Longest Day gives people the flexibility to support the Alzheimer’s Association through their own interests.
Photos courtesy of Alzheimer’s Association - Western Carolina Chapter
FESTIVALS
from 1A
as well as steel drums and an aerial performance. Food trucks of different cultures will also be available. Youth art will also be displayed from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 10 at Waxhaw Recreation Barn (5412 WaxhawMarvin Road).
e Town of Weddington o ers a reason to visit town hall for non-o cial business on the rst three Fridays in May. e town hasn’t shared event speci cs yet but previous years’ events started at 5:30 p.m. and featured vendors specializing in barbecue, pizza and des-
serts. Expect music and entertainment, too.
• When: May 2, 9 and 16
• Where: 1924 Weddington Road, Weddington
• Details: facebook.com/townofweddington/
Wesley Chapel: Spring Fling
e Village of Wesley Chapel packs a lot of entertainment in this year’s Spring Fling at village hall. e event includes bounce houses, a foam pit, balloon animals, yard games and a screening of the Disney fi lm “Th e Jungle Book” (7 p.m.), courtesy of Union County Parks and Recreation. Popcorn and popsicles will be available. e town recommends you bring a chair.
• When: 4 to 7 p.m. May 3
• Where: 6490 Weddington Road, Wesley Chapel
• Details: wesleychapelnc.com
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
rival. Registration opens 15 minutes before the first session. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 3:30-4:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
April 24 Baby Storytime Children, ages 0-2, learn literacy skills through Baby and Toddler Storytime at Matthews Library. Register at the train desk within 15 minutes before the start. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 9:15-9:45 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Park Storytime Children, ages 0-5, listen to stories and songs during a Family Storytime at Mint Hill Veterans Memorial Park. cmlibrary.org/locations/Mint-Hill 10-10:30 a.m.; 8850 Fairview Road, Mint Hill
Park Storytime Children, ages 2-5, listen to stories and songs during Storytime in the Park at Squirrel Lake Park. Bring something to sit on. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 11-11:30 a.m.; 1631 Pleasant Plains Road, Matthews
Chess Club Children, ages 5-11 meet for Chess Club at Matthews Library. They’ll get to try out strategies to win. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 4-5 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Pajama Storytime Children, ages 0-5, and their families listen to stories and songs during Pajama Storytime at Mint Hill Library. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 6:30-7 p.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
congestion taxes; municipal service districts; tax increment nancing; public-private partnerships; sale of naming rights; station rents; station air rights; advertising revenues; sale of amenities on public transportation (such as Wi-Fi or priority seating); and private donations.” Managers for ve of the six Mecklenburg towns (excluding Matthews), issued a
joint statement April 10 that expressed appreciation for Cotham’s bill.
“We appreciate the thoughtful considerations that Representative Cotham has taken and the managers look forward to working with her and her colleagues in the House and Senate to advance legislation that increases mobility choices for the people of Mecklenburg County and our visitors through a referendum that will be decided by the vot-
ing public in Mecklenburg County.”
The Charlotte Regional Business Alliance also issued a statement, describing Cotham’s bill as “forward-thinking legislation.”
e Metropolitan Transit Commission is scheduled to meet April 30 and will likely hear input CATS has collected from the public on how to move forward with the Silver Line East and Blue Line Extension.
15 minutes before the start. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 11:15-11:45 a.m. or noon-12:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews Paws to Read Children, ages 5-11, read to a volunteer therapy dog at the Matthews Library. Sign up for a 15-minute session upon ar-
3.
April 25 Job Search Adults can get one-on-one job search assistance at Matthews Library. Register in advance. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 10-11 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
May 16 Food Truck Fridays Food Truck Fridays, presented by Hand Crafted Market, features food trucks, live music, vendors and a beer tent at The Hangar. 5-9 p.m.; 251 N. Trade St., Matthews
• Izcalli Mexican Restaurant, 3509 Matthews-Mint Hill Road – 94
• Publix (deli), 3110 Fincher Farm Road – 98.5
• Somi Sushi, 3104 Weddington Road – 95.5
• Stacks Kitchen, 11100 Monroe Road – 97.5
Bechtler Museum launches art on prescription program
CHARLOTTE – The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and Novant Health announced a partnership to combat loneliness and social isolation through art experiences.
Led by the Bechtler Museum, the new Charlotte Art on Prescription program will provide qualifying participants, referred by Novant Health professionals, with one year of free access to arts programming and cultural experiences across Charlotte.
e program comes in response to the U.S.Surgeon General's 2023 report highlighting that 50% of adults experience considerable levels of loneliness.
Through Charlotte Art on Prescription, healthcare providers can now prescribe arts engagement as a pathway to building meaningful social connections and improving overall well being.
“ e Bechtler Museum of Modern Art has long recognized art's power to bring people together and foster genuine human connection,” said Todd D. Smith, executive director of the museum. “ rough this groundbreaking partnership with Novant Health, we can now extend the healing and community-building aspects of arts engagement to those who need it most.”
e program o ers participants ac-
cess to museum programs, live performances at partner performance-based organizations and art-making classes. Participants must be recommended by a Novant Health professional and attend initial meetings at the Bechtler Museum of Art. e program will measure its impact through periodic participant surveys.
“ e health and wellbeing of patients is at the forefront of all we do at Novant Health, and we know that a strong community is vital to ensuring mental wellness thrives,” said
Dr. Sid Fletcher, senior vice president and president of Novant Health’s Charlotte region. “This innovative program represents a new frontier in addressing social determinants of health through cultural engagement. We are proud to be partners of Charlotte Art on Prescription and believe that its impact will be felt for years to come.”
Molly Phillips, the museum’s assistant director for education, developed this program and will lead the museum’s e orts.
Art program caters to 55+ crowd
Bechtler Museum of Modern Art is partnering with Arts+ on a new program, Creative Aging: Art and Connection, designed for adults ages 55 and older. e quarterly workshop series will include gallery conversations, artmaking and social connection. The latest series will explore the life and work of Virginia Jaramillo through the exhibition "Virginia Jaramillo: Principle of Equivalence." As an artist in her 80s, Jaramillo has experimented with different styles and mediums.
The series takes place from 10:30 a.m. to noon ursdays, April 24, May 1, May 8 and May 15 at the museum. It costs $35 for Bechtler members and $40 for others. All materials are provided. $10 o parking is provided. Visit bechtler.org/creativeaging for details.
Todd D. Smith, executive director of the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, said art can bring people together and foster human connection. Ghost Crab Productions photo
CLASSIFIEDS
Slalom has multiple openings for the following positions at its Charlotte, NC office: Engineer, Sr. [Job code 64271]: Research, design, and develop computer and network software or specialized utility programs. Some telecommuting is permitted. Solution Architect, Quality Engineering [Job code 17010]: Develop and execute software tests to identify software problems and their causes. Test system modifications to prepare for implementation. TO APPLY: Go to www.jobpostingtoday.com, search for job code & submit resume.
IT Project Delivery Manager, Agile Software Delivery II - Equitable Financial Life Insurance Co, (Charlotte, NC) Ovrse ncssry effrt estmtns & prrztn of wrk by team to dlvry on tme & in bdgt, incld trckng & mntrng frcsts, mngng actual expenses & corrctng bdgt varncs. Rqmts: Bchlrs dgr or for equiv in Comp Sci, Comp Engnrng, Info Tech or clsly rltd IT fld & 6 yrs prgrssv pst-Bacc exp as IT Prjct Mngr, Prgmr Anlyst, or rltd pstn analyzng, dsgnng, & dvlpng cstmzd lrg scl, entrprs-wd mnfrm app intrfcng w/ dstrbtd systms in US Lfe Insurnce, Annuities, & Wlth Mngmnt domains. Exp mst incld: ZOS, COBOL, PL1, SQL, JCL, CICS. See job descrpt for full reqs. 40 hrs/wk/ Salary $127,338 - $134,000/year. Hybrid work schedule: 2d-in office/3d-remote. Drct apps only. Send resume to M.Berkowsky (KB1701), Equitable, 1345 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10105 or search job title thr https://equitable.com/ about-us/careers. EOE M/F/D/V.
Ardor IT Solutions Inc, a Charlotte, NC based IT Staffing & Consulting Firm has multiple openings for JOB ID 11607: Software Engineer. Education and Experience requirements along with remuneration as provided on the website. Travel/relocation may be required. Details at https://www.ardoritsolutions.com. Send resume to: hr@ardoritsolutions.com, including the JOB ID. Equal Opportunity Employer.
LIVE MUSIC
Russ focuses on the unpredictability of life CHARLOTTE – Multi-platinum artist and producer Russ is hitting the road for the Into e W!LD Tour.
Produced by Live Nation, the 16-date tour includes a stop at PNC Music Pavilion in Charlotte on July 22. Russ will be joined by special guest, multi-platinum artist Big Sean and supported by GRAMMY-nominated singer/songwriter Sabrina Claudio for all dates.
e tour comes on the heels of Russ announcing his sixth studio album “W!LD,” set for release this summer, along with sharing the rst two singles from the album “Movin” and “April 7.” Tickets go on sale to the general public April 18 at 10 a.m. at russworld. com.
e new album focuses on the new perspective Russ has on the unpredictability of life and the tug and pull between resisting challenges and embracing them. “W!LD” is an exploration of his journey into the unknown.
To date, Russ has amassed over 22 billion career streams.
April 18
• Americana Beer Co.: Coleson Comer
• Amos’ Southend: Abacab
• Blackfinn Ameripub: Ben Burton
• Char Bar No. 7 (Mint Hill): Nate Dowdy
• Evening Muse: Cassettique; Never Easy
• Franklin Court Grille: Dose of Ocean
• Home Brew Taproom & Tunes: The Violent Gypsies
• Independence Harley-Davidson: DJ Capree
• Moochies Tavern: Gump Fiction
• Neighborhood Theatre: Bailen
• OMB Ballantyne: Doc & The Doses
• SmallBar Matthews: Action Jaxxon
• Southern Range Brewing Company: Mike Nolan
• Stooges Pub & Grub: Black Glass
• The Club House:Wildmen from Borneo
• The Trail House: Deacon Black
• Visulite Th eatre: Sunsquabi w/ Chalk Dinosaur
• White Duck Taco: Matthew Ablan
April 19
• Americana Beer Co.: J&R Music
• Amos’ Southend: Tremont
• Evening Muse: Harvey Street and The Ocho
• Great Wagon Road Distillery: Coconut
Groove
• Home Brew Taproom & Tunes: Jennifer
Alvarado
• Local Logic: Dougie Plant
• Moochies Tavern: Underground Owls
• Neighborhood Theatre: Kyle Gordon
• OMB Ballantyne: Southern Wind
• Panzú Brewery: Analog Crash
• Southern Range Brewing Company:
Even the Losers
• Stooges Pub & Grub: Sweet Talkin’
Johnny
• The Trail House: 485
• The Underground: Mike
• The Union Exchange: Delta Fire Duo
April 21
• Evening Muse: Open mic
• The Club House: Open mic
• The Fillmore: Pouya
April 22
• Neighborhood Theatre: Blk Odyssy
• Ovens Auditorium: Amos Lee
April 23
• Amos’ Southend: Hey, Nothing
• Evening Muse: Joe Troop’s Whirlwind
• Home Brew Taproom & Tunes: Annie
Haden
• Local Logic: DJ SweeTee
• Neighborhood Theatre: Armchair Boogie
• Peddler’s Paradise Bartique: Open mic
• The Amp Ballantyne: Chris Young
• The Club House: Matthew Ablan
• The Fillmore: The Dip
• The Trail House: Matthew Coleman
April 24
• Char Bar No. 7 (Carmel): Jarrett
Raymond
• Char Bar No. 7 (Mint Hill): Mark Pelfrey
• Evening Muse: Five Door Sedan and Taylor Hollingsworth
• Home Brew Taproom & Tunes: Open
mic
• Neighborhood Theatre: Austin Williams
• Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre: Warren Zeiders
April 25
• Amos’ Southend: Cigarettes at Sunset
• Blackfinn Ameripub: Greg Hathaway
• Grapes Bistro and Wine Bar: Carrie Ann
• Moochies Tavern: Chris Marks Band
• Neighborhood Theatre: New Potato Caboose
• OMB Ballantyne: The Coozies
• Ovens Auditorium: Taylor Tomlinson
• Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre: Mt. Joy
• Southern Range Brewing Company: Dual Drive
• Stella-Rye Pub: Karaoke with DJ Karen
• Stooges Pub & Grub: Off the Record
• The Club House: Vinyl Live
• The Trail House: Darren Deese
• The Underground: Joe Kay
• Visulite Theatre: Abbey Road Live
April 26
• Amos’ Southend: Shot Thru the Heart
• Evening Muse: Pat McGee
• Local Logic: Theresa Eaman
• Moochies Tavern: Dustin Yager Duo; Don’t Blink
• Neighborhood Theatre: Ella Langley
• OMB Ballantyne: Weak Fade
• Ovens Auditorium: Taylor Tomlinson
• Shep’s Bar & Grill: Jaxx & Jacks
• Southern Range Brewing Company: Kristen & Joe Duo
• Stooges Pub & Grub: Hardwired
• The Fillmore: PHil Hanley
• The Trail House: Badcash
• The Underground: Osamason
• Waxhaw Taphouse: 485
Live Music Venues
Charlotte
• Amos’ Southend: 1423 S. Tryon St.
• Blackfinn Ameripub: 14825 Ballantyne
Village Way
• Char Bar No. 7 (Carmel):
• Evening Muse: 3227 N. Davidson St.
• Neighborhood Theatre: 511 E. 36th St.
• OMB Ballantyne: 15025 Bowl St.
• Ovens Auditorium: 2700 E.
• Spectrum Center: 333 E. Trade St.
• The Amp Ballantyne: 11115 Upper Ave.
• The Club House: 16709 Orchard Stone
Run
• The Fillmore: 820 Hamilton St.
• The Underground: 820 Hamilton St.
• Visulite Theatre: 1615 Elizabeth Ave.
Indian Trail
• Grapes Bistro and Wine Bar: 6461 Old Monroe Road
• The Trail House: 6751 Old Monroe Road
Matthews
• Carolina Beer Temple: 215 N. Ames St.
• Independence Harley-Davidson: 9205 E. Independence Blvd.
• White Duck Taco: 131 E. John St. Mint Hill
• Char Bar No. 7: 7312 Town View Drive
• Panzú Brewery: 7251 Matthews-Mint
• Shep’s Bar & Grill: 8111 Fairview
• Great Wagon Road Distillery: DJ Holla & DJ Spontaneous
• Independence Harley-Davidson: DJ Capree
Independence Blvd.
• Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre: 1000 NC Music Factory Blvd.
Photo courtesy of Live Nation
Keeping insurers in check while assisting state consumers
By Mike Causey Contributor
A lot of times I like to talk about how much money Department of Insurance employees save North Carolina residents. I’ve written before about how our Consumer Services Division helps consumers who have issues with insurance companies paying their claims, or about how our Smart NC program provides patients who have been denied a medicine or procedure prescribed by their doctor get an independent review.
Our Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program, which helps Medicare beneficiaries navigate their health insurance maze, saves senior citizens millions of dollars. e
BUSINESS BRIEFS
Zaxbys serves fresh, prepared-at-order Chicken Fingers and wings tossed in a variety of sauces as well as dishes like Chicken Bacon Ranch Loaded Fries and Fried Pickles.
Photo courtesy of Zaxbys
Zaxbys expands Charlotte footprint
CHARLOTTE – Saucy chicken chain
Zaxbys opened its newest location April 7 at 4141 Corning Place.
e new Zaxbys is owned and operated by Chris Carnes, Ben Fields and Samantha Stetson of Chicken Pit LLC.
“We are excited to be opening our third location in the Charlotte area and becoming more involved in the community,” Carnes said.
Department’s Criminal Investigations Division investigates scams and fraud and returns millions of dollars in recoveries and restitutions following their investigations.
There’s another group of people at the Department of Insurance working hard to make sure insurance companies are doing what they’re supposed to do, providing timely payments to consumers for their insurance claims while making sure they charge the correct premiums.
is group of people works for the Market Regulation Division. ese employees mostly work behind the scenes. Consumers rarely, if ever, come in contact with our Market Regulation Division employees. But their work can pay big dividends to insurance policyholders in North Carolina.
These employees routinely monitor the conduct of insurance companies in North Carolina, whether they’re property and casu-
Spanning 3,000 square feet, the new Zaxbys is equipped with 56 seats for dine-in guests, as well as a drive-thru for expedited service.
On the web: zaxbys.com
Golden Corral raising money for camp
RALEIGH – Golden Corral hopes to raise $1 million for Camp Corral by June 15.
Camp Corral allows military children to be kids away from the stresses and challenges of military life.
Golden Corral restaurants and DAV raised over $2 million last year, which covered the cost for 1,500 military children to attend Camp Corral.
Diners can donate by purchasing Fundraising Stars ($1 for a White Star, $5 for Blue Star and $10 for Flag Star), buying a 32-ounce drink in a special cup, rounding up their bill at the register or scanning a QR Code to donate. On the web: GoldenCorral. com or CampCorral.org
Emily Toot Steve Gerlach
Thomas & Hutton expands team in
Charlotte
CHARLOTTE – Thomas & Hutton announced two new employees joining its Charlotte o ce.
Emily Toot joins as a marketing/proposal coordinator, where she creates compelling proposals and marketing collateral that showcase the rm’s expertise, culture and project successes.
Steve Gerlach joins as an environmental project manager, bringing over a decade of experience in the planning and design of water and wastewater infrastructure projects for municipal and quasi-governmental clients. He specializes in BioWin treatment process modeling, plant hydraulic and capacity analysis, process troubleshooting, and preliminary and detailed engineering design.
Retailer celebrating Walmart+ Week
BENTONVILLE, Ark. – Walmart is celebrating Walmart+ Week from April 28 to
alty companies, such as homeowners’ and automobile insurance companies, or companies that provide health or life insurance. ey may examine health maintenance organizations, preferred provider organizations or premium nance companies.
Over the past ve years, from 2020 to 2024, Market Regulation Division employees’ examinations and market analyses resulted in nearly $24.7 million in refunds, including interest, to consumers. During that time, these employees imposed more than $1.8 million in regulatory nes, money that under the N.C. Constitution goes to the bene t of the public schools. Millions more in nes have been assessed this year.
e department’s market conduct examiners will do general, target and compliance examinations:
• General examinations: Under state law, every insurance company has its records reviewed
May 4 with exclusive rewards.
Walmart said its membership has achieved double-digit growth with consistently increasing delivery volumes and repeat order rates from members across multiple quarters. Same-day delivery, including orders fullled within three hours or less, saw an 180% year-on-year growth, contributing to over 5 billion units delivered last year.
With same-day delivery now reaching 93% of U.S. households, more Walmart+ members can take advantage of this indispensable bene t than ever before.
Visit Walmart.com/plus to learn more about Walmart+ Week.
Charlotte Area Chamber events
CHARLOTTE – The Charlotte Area Chamber of Commerce will host a ribbon cutting and volunteer opportunities.
• Members hold a ribbon cutting at Westlake Ace Hardware from 9 to 10 a.m. April 24 at 2924 Mt. Holly-Huntersville Road, Charlotte. Register in advance.
• The Young Professionals group volunteers and serves dinner to residents at Roof Above from 5:30 to 7 p.m. April 24 at 1210 N. Tryon St., Charlotte. Register in advance.
• The chamber partners with Keep Charlotte Beautiful on Earth Week activities that include a litter pickup, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. April 25 at Envision Charlotte, 932 Seigle Ave., Charlotte. Register in advance. Visit charlotteareachamber.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Latin American Chamber events
CHARLOTTE – The Latin American Chamber of Commerce will hold an after-hours networking event.
• Members network after work from 6 to 8 p.m. April 29 at PiNS Mechanical, 307 W. Tremont Ave., Charlotte. Register in advance. Hora Feliz is free to members. Others pay $15. Visit lacccharlotte.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Matthews Area Chamber events
MATTHEWS – The Matthews Area Chamber of Commerce will hold a Business After Hours program.
• The chamber holds a Business After Hours during the second annual Fine Art Show from 5 to 8 p.m. April 25 at the Historic Reid
every ve years to ensure the company is complying with insurance laws and regulations.
• Target examinations: Market regulators can initiate these investigations at any time and are often prompted by a trend of consumer complaints about an insurance company’s practices.
• Compliance examinations: Whenever violations have been found, companies must provide a corrective action plan, and this includes ensuring they have resolved the department’s concerns.
Various divisions at the Department of Insurance work hard to protect consumers. I’m working hard and asking the Department’s employees to work hard to make sure that North Carolinians are getting a fair deal for their insurance premium dollars.
Mike Causey serves as insurance commissioner for North Carolina
House, 134 W. John St., Matthews. Register in advance.
Visit matthewschamber.org to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Mint Hill Chamber events
MINT HILL – e Mint Hill Chamber of Commerce will o er a Business After Hours and a ribbon cutting.
• Ambassadors hold their monthly meeting from 4 to 5:30 p.m. April 22 at Olde Sycamore, 7500 Olde Sycamore Drive, Charlotte.
• Members network during a Business After Hours event from 5 to 6:30 p.m. April 23 at 13114 Macon Hall Drive, Mint Hill. Register in advance.
• Members hold a ribbon cutting in celebration of Mint Hill Marketing from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. April 24 at 7900 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Building 2, Suite B, Mint Hill. Visit minthillchamberofcommerce.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Pineville NC Chamber events
PINEVILLE – e Pineville NC Chamber of Commerce will hold a special outing for members.
• Members meet for the monthly social gathering from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. April 24 at Dave & Busters, 11049 Carolina Place Pkwy., Pineville. Register in advance. Visit pinevillencchamber.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Union County Chamber events
MONROE – e Union County Chamber of Commerce will host a ribbon cutting.
• Members celebrate the grand opening of Eggs Up Grill with a ribbon cutting from 10:30 to 11 a.m. at 5124 Old Charlotte Hwy., Monroe. Register in advance. Visit unioncountycoc.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Waxhaw Business Association events
WAXHAW – The Waxhaw Business Association will host an update on the town.
• Waxhaw Mayor Robert Murray gives an update on the town from 7:30 to 9 a.m. May 21. Register in advance. Visit waxhawbusinessassociation.org to learn more about the association and its events.
Need some last-minute inspiration filling those Easter baskets this year? Walmart offered these ideas using items that won’t break the budget.
