The 05-02-2025 Edition of Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly
by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com
MATTHEWS – Town Manager Becky Hawke
has shared details of a partnership that could lead to Matthews Elementary School, a Discovery Place Kids
museum and a downtown park sharing the same campus.
e plan involves Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools replacing Matthews Elementary School on its existing property with a new building that incorporates the Discovery Place Kids
museum under the same roof. Once the school moves into the new space in 2029, the older building will be converted to a downtown park.
“ ere are so many positives to this project, it’s hard to think of any downside,” Hawke told commissioners
MATTHEWS – Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity focused on exterior maintenance and beautification efforts April 25 during its latest Rock the Block event.
e e ort involved painting, pressure washing, landscaping and mowing six homes in a Mint Hill neighborhood.
e nonpro t says these e orts play a role in preserving safe, decent and a ordable housing for homeowners in the Greater Matthews area.
e day of service is designed to ensure families can remain in safe and well-maintained homes without the burden of una ordable upkeep costs.
is event is held in partnership with the Town of Mint Hill and in collaboration with the Canopy Housing Foundation as part of its annual Realtors Care Day.
By Ken McCool Contributor
After a lot of thought and re ection, I’ve decided that I will not be seeking re-election to the Matthews Board of Commissioners this fall. at wasn’t an easy decision, but it’s the right one for me right now.
When I rst took o ce at 21 years old, I promised to serve
Want to help?
Realtors Care Day, which takes place during National Fair Housing Month, is a community-wide project that assists homeowners with exterior home repairs and provides adaptive and safety modi cations for those in need.
Matthews with energy, honesty and a commitment to doing what’s right. I’ve kept that promise close to heart at every meeting, during every vote and in every conversation with residents.
Over the past few years, we’ve accomplished a lot together.
We brought Fire Station #3 to life, expanding coverage and ensuring faster emergency response for more of our community. We made the largest investment in attainable housing in our town’s history, helping more working families afford to live here. And we laid the
“Rock the Block is a powerful example of what happens when community partners come together to uplift neighborhoods,” said Natisha Rivera-Patrick, president & CEO of Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity. “We are proud to return to Mint Hill and continue working alongside the town and Canopy Housing Foundation to preserve a ordable housing and strengthen the sense of belonging for local families.”
Email volunteer coordinator Liz Sweeney at liz@habitatmatthews.org if you're interested in
April 28.
For starters, Hawke said the community will save 50% off of construction costs with the design, site development and construction of the replacement school and museum being combined into one project.
Hawke said the site will be
foundation for the biggest investment in parks and infrastructure in decades, which is something I believe will de ne the next chapter of Matthews. Because of work like this, our town was recently named one of the Top 10 Best Places to Move in North Carolina. at recognition isn’t about any one commissioner, it’s about our shared values, our commitment to each other and the kind of community we continue to build. From the start, I believed local government should be transparent,
designed in a way that allows for on-property queuing that gets vehicles o Trade Street. The school and museum may get separate entrances to prevent tra c from one slowing down access to the other.
The project would also create a much larger
Greater Matthews Habitat rocks the block in Mint Hill
Stumptown Park, which could lead to bigger events. Town sta and CMS are currently getting appraisals and surveys done on the sites, which will help determine the exact boundaries
McCool: I’m not seeking re-election, but I’m not going far
welcoming and focused on people and not divisive politics that turn people away. at belief has guided every decision I’ve made and every ght I’ve taken on.
So while I won’t be running this year, I’m not going far. I still believe in the power of public service. I still believe in Matthews. And I’m more hopeful than ever for what’s ahead. You’ll be hearing from me again soon. I promise.
Ken McCool is serving his third term on the Matthews Board of Commissioners.
CHARLOTTE – The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education approved the 2025-26 budget for CharlotteMecklenburg Schools at the April 22 meeting by a 5-3 vote.
The vote came after a Jan. 18 joint meeting with county commissioners, a Feb. 18 budget work session, numerous stakeholder feedback sessions and an April 8 public hearing, where constituents shared their thoughts.
The budget requests $667,579,849 in operating funds from Mecklenburg County and includes:
• A 3% salary increase assumption for all sta , including teachers and classi ed sta , based on recent state trends.
• An average 5% increase in teacher supplements to remain competitive.
• Ongoing investments in teacher growth and professional development.
• $8.3 million to support the second phase of the Classi ed Compensation Study, which addresses long-standing pay disparities for classi ed sta .
• $2 million for student devices to ensure they all have access to digital learning tools.
The budget aligns with board-created goals, the strategic plan and CMS’s pillars of excellence.
As CMS enters the 2025-26 budget year, the district faces the challenge of operating with less funding for critical resources due to the loss of Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund.
“We must make strategic decisions to balance priorities and sustain essential services. I believe this budget does that,” Chair Stephanie Sneed said. “The budget is focused on maintaining services while investing in sta , students and technology which are essential to achieving the board's goals in the areas of reading and math, and ensuring students are on track to being enrolled in higher education, gainfully employed with a livable wage, or enlisted in the armed services.”
School board members Melissa Easley, Lisa Cline and Summer Nunn voted against the budget. Each spoke about the need to ask for increased teacher pay.
“Teachers should not be priced out of living in the communities that they serve,” Easley said.
e approved budget will be shared with county commissioners on May 7.
Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity has organized four
Rock the Block events, including two in Mint Hill.
Photos courtesy of Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity
Ken McCool
STAY CONNECTED
• Facebook, Twitter and Instagram: @mmhweekly. @ucweekly, @southcltweekly, @weekly waxhaw and @itncweekly
CONTACT US
PUBLISHER
Adrian Garson adrian@cmgweekly.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com
ADVERTISING
Charlotte Conway charlotte@cmgweekly.com
NEWSLETTER
Subscribe to our free email newsletter to stay on top of everything we are publishing in print and online, as well as what we’re sharing across our social media platforms. Visit one of our websites for a link to subscribe.
MAYOR SAYS BILLS WOULD TAKE AWAY LOCAL CONTROL
by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com
MATTHEWS – Mayor John Higdon sent a letter to state lawmakers expressing “strong opposition” to two bills he says take away local control from cities and towns.
Higdon described House Bill 661 (Building Industry E ciency Act of 2025) and House Bill 765 (Local Government Development Regulations Omnibus) as “horri c” and “really terrible” during the April 28 town board meeting.
“ ey would signi cantly weaken local authority and restrict our ability to make thoughtful, community-driven land-use infrastructure decisions,” Higdon read from
the letter. e letter points to these drawbacks for each bill:
• House Bill 765 – Eliminate the ability to negotiate voluntary zoning conditions, mandate ve units per acre zoning in all residential districts, upend the Envision Matthews Comprehensive Plan and impose legal penalties on local o cials for routine land-use and planning decisions.
• House Bill 661 – Prohibit cities and towns from adopting street design and construction standards that exceed those required by the N.C. Department of Transportation.
“We’ve all on this dais had our di erences on some of the zoning applications that have come before us but we’ve always had the ability to do conditional zoning and to
try to get the best possible products for our citizens,” Higdon told colleagues. “If these bills pass, that’ll be taken away from us and it will just be mandated.”
Union County Rep. Mark Brody and Mecklenburg County Rep. Carla Cunningham are among primary sponsors for both bills. Mecklenburg County Rep. Tricia Cotham is a sponsor of House Bill 661.
Higdon to introduce transportation proposal
Matthews Mayor John Higdon plans to introduce a funding model that would allow Mecklenburg County to allocate more money from a proposed 1-cent sales tax toward transit projects.
Higdon is trying to keep the
LYNX Silver Line as a light rail project through Matthews.
New legislation from N.C. Rep. Tricia Cotham has opened the door for that but Higdon is trying to get support from his colleagues on the Metropolitan Transit Commission. Higdon’s proposal would call for 45% of the sales tax revenue to go toward rail projects, 40% toward roads and 15% toward buses. He also wants to run numbers through a software program to see how many more miles of rail can be built toward or within Matthews.
Higdon planned to introduce his proposal during the April 30 Metropolitan Transit Commission meeting, which is after e Weekly’s print deadline.
School library content proposal awaits Senate vote
By Alan Wooten Contributor
(The Center Square) – Following lower chamber lawmakers tossing labels of pornography and book bans about in discussion, the North Carolina Senate is next to get a crack at legislation involving content available to minors in schools. Passage in the House of Representatives (63-46) included two crossing the aisle, a Democrat and Republican each. Promoting Wholesome Content
for Students, known also as House Bill 636, drew criticism from most Democrats. Words like “censorship” and “book banning” were in their discussion. Eliminating the “vulgar” and “pornography” were in the advocacy for the bill by most Republicans. Scotland County Democratic Rep. Garland Pierce voted aye,
and Iredell County Republican Rep. Todd Carver voted no. Moore County Republican Rep. Neal Jackson authored the proposal. All ages and grade levels would be kept from “descriptions or visual depictions of sexual activity,” if the proposal becomes law. All the state’s school districts (115) would be required to have a panel of ve parents or guardians and ve educators that review school library material for violations. Book fairs would also be subject to the law. Policies, the proposal says, should
yield age-appropriate o erings with literary value. ere would be compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act. e bill is speci c to allow litigation against the districts or schools if parents, guardians or residents if they feel there is a violation. e State Board of Education would maintain a database of material denied inclusion.
Union County Reps. David Willis and Dean Arp have sponsored House Bill 636. Willis is a primary sponsor of the bill.
CATA, Weddington earn Blumey nominations
CHARLOTTE – Central Academy of Technology and Arts as well as Myers Park and Weddington high schools, produced some of the finest theater this spring as evidenced by their Blumey Awards nominations.
Blumenthal Performing Arts recently announced nominations for its High School Musical eater Awards. CATA, Myers Park and Weddington were among schools with the most nominations.
e Blumey Awards Ceremony takes place May 18 at Belk eater at Blumenthal Arts Center.
Below are nalists for most of the awards from southern Mecklenburg and western Union counties. e top six nominees for Best Actor and Best Actress were scheduled to be announced the week of May 5.
Bank of America Best Musical
• Weddington High School – Chicago: Teen Edition
Best Choreography Execution
• Weddington High School – Chicago: Teen Edition
Best Direction
• Weddington High School – Chicago: Teen Edition
Best Ensemble
• Central Academy of Technology and Arts– Les Misérables School Edition
• Weddington High School – Chicago: Teen Edition
Best Featured Performer
• Central Academy of Technology and Arts
– Garrett Dwiggins as Bishop of Digne/Legles – Les Misérables School Edition
• Myers Park High School – Mary Claire Davidson as Mrs. Meyers/Officer – Freaky Friday
Best Supporting Actor
Chicago: Teen Edition
Below are nominees for the acting categories from southern Mecklenburg and western Union counties. e top six nalists for Best Featured Performer, Best Supporting Actor and Best Supporting Actress are listed above while Best Actor and Best Actress will be named the week of May 5.
Best Actor
• Ardrey Kell High School - Brett Parrish as Professor Callahan - Legally Blonde
• Ballantyne Ridge High School - Evan Mueller as Mr. D - e Lightning ief
• Carmel Christian School - Dylan Wilson as Curly McLain - Oklahoma!
• Central Academy of Technology & ArtsAlex Board as Javert - Les Misérables School Edition
• Charlotte Catholic High School - Brenden Ortiz as Motel - Fiddler on the Roof
• Charlotte Country Day School - Charles Dekle as Major Josiah Dobbs – Bright Star
• Charlotte Latin School - Adam Stone as Robert Martin - e Drowsy Chaperone
• Cuthbertson High School - Owen Santolucito as Vlad Popov - Anastasia
• East Mecklenburg High School - Gabe Johnson as King Charles - Pippin
• Marvin Ridge High School - Solomon Barnard as Bert - Mary Poppins
• Myers Park High School - Thomas Gordon as Adam - Freaky Friday
• Porter Ridge High School - Isaac Estrada as Sky - Mamma Mia
• Providence Day School - Wyatt Olliff as Hook/Mr. Darling - Peter Pan
• Providence High School - Jackson Powell as Chad - All Shook Up
• South Mecklenburg High School - Callum Gri th as Callahan - Legally Blonde
• Weddington High School - Jackson
Jedelsky as Billy Flynn - Chicago: Teen Edition
Best Actress
MacLeod as Catherine - Pippin
• Marvin Ridge High School - Isabel Henggeler as Winifred Banks - Mary Poppins
• Myers Park High School - Maggie Holcomb as Katherine - Freaky Friday
• Parkwood High School - Emma Goins as Sally Brown - You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown (Revised)
• Porter Ridge High School - Ava Klein as Sophie - Mamma Mia
• Providence Day School - Liza Grimes as Peter Pan - Peter Pan
• Providence High School - Amelia McCarty as Natalie/Ed - All Shook Up
• South Mecklenburg High School - Shantal Tavares as Vivienne Kensington - Legally Blonde
• Weddington High School - Isabella Stetson as Roxie Hart - Chicago: Teen Edition
Finalists for Best Featured Performer
• Ardrey Kell High School - Asher Schreibman as Kyle - Legally Blonde
• Ballantyne Ridge High School - Graeme Mitchell as Mr. Brunner - e Lightning ief
• Carmel Christian School - Abby Castles as Gertie Cummings - Oklahoma!
• Central Academy of Technology & Arts
- Garrett Dwiggins as The Bishop of Digne/ Legles - Les Misérables School Edition
• Charlotte Catholic High School - Connor Nichols as Rabbi - Fiddler on the Roof
• Charlotte Country Day School - Brady Heintschel as Daryl Ames – Bright
• Charlotte Latin School - Michaela Maldfeld as Trix - e Drowsy Chaperone
• Cuthbertson High School - Kaitlyn Achu as Count Ipolitov - Anastasia
• East Mecklenburg High School - Greta Herring as Player/Lead Dancer - Pippin
• Marvin Ridge High School - Ethan Odze as Robertson Ay - Mary Poppins
• Myers Park High School - Mary Claire
Davidson as Mrs. Meyers/Officer - Freaky Friday
Shkavritko as Ali Hakim - Oklahoma!
• Central Academy of Technology & ArtsAiden Conway as Thenardier - Les Misérables School Edition
• Charlotte Catholic High School - Jon Pacheco as Perchik - Fiddler on the Roof
• Charlotte Country Day School - Reid Cook as Billy Cane – Bright Star
• Charlotte Latin School - Max Colaco as Adolpho - e Drowsy Chaperone
• East Mecklenburg High School - Levi Sutorus as Lewis - Pippin
• Marvin Ridge High School - Tobey Joyce as Michael Banks - Mary Poppins
• Myers Park High School - Addison Elder as Savannah - Freaky Friday
• Porter Ridge High School - Aidan Funderburk as Harry - Mamma Mia
• Providence Day School - Eli Coblenz as John - Peter Pan
• Providence High School - Graham Harding as Dennis - All Shook Up
• South Mecklenburg High School - Henry Schmidt as Emmet Forrest - Legally Blonde
• Weddington High School - Callum Bridgers as Amos Hart - Chicago: Teen Edition
Best Supporting Actress
• Ardrey Kell High School - Kayla Caro as Paulette Buonafonte - Legally Blonde
• Ballantyne Ridge High School - Rudrani Ghoshal as Sally Jackson - e Lightning ief
• Carmel Christian School - Payton Young as Ado Annie Carnes - Oklahoma!
• Central Academy of Technology & Arts
- Sophia Davison as Fantine - Les Misérables School Edition
• Charlotte Catholic High School - Anna Wall as Tzeitel - Fiddler on the Roof
• Charlotte Country Day School - Addi Bianchi as Margo Crawford – Bright
• Charlotte Latin School - Lucy House as Kitty - The Drowsy Chaperone
• Cuthbertson High School - Lucy Hubatka as Countess Lily - Anastasia
• Central Academy of Technology and Arts
– Aidan Conway as Thénardier – Les Misérables School Edition
• Myers Park High School – Addison Elder as Savannah – Freaky Friday
Best Supporting Actress
• Central Academy of Technology and Arts
– Sophia Davison as Fantine – Les Misérables School Edition
• Myers Park High School – Rachel Stitt as Torrey – Freaky Friday
Best Student Orchestra
• Central Academy of Technology and Arts– Les Misérables School Edition
• Myers Park High School – Freaky Friday
• Providence High School – All Shook Up
• Weddington High School –
• Ardrey Kell High School - Anabella Regueira as Elle Woods - Legally Blonde
• Ballantyne Ridge High School - Lucia
Delgado Rojas as Percy Jackson - e Lightning ief
• Carmel Christian School - Anna Jernigan as Laurey Williams - Oklahoma!
• Central Academy of Technology & Arts -
Haley Ciaramella as Eponine - Les Misérables School Edition
• Charlotte Catholic High School - Maye
Glessner as Hodel - Fiddler on the Roof
• Charlotte Country Day School - Sabrina
McGovern as Alice Murphy – Bright Star
• Charlotte Latin School - Kate Griesser as Janet Van de Gra - e Drowsy Chaperone
• Cuthbertson High School - Sophia Dion as Anya/Princess Anastasia - Anastasia
• East Mecklenburg High School - Cassidy
• Parkwood High School - Nahla Nowkhah as Rabbit - You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown (Revised)
• Porter Ridge High School - Anastasia Charley as Dance Captain/Ensemble - Mamma Mia
• Providence Day School - Mia Ostrowski as Liza - Peter Pan
• Providence High School - Hudson Blair as Sheri Earl - All Shook Up
• South Mecklenburg High SchoolGretchen Balay as Enid Hoopes - Legally Blonde
• Weddington High School - Carter Kavana as Fred Casley - Chicago: Teen Edition
Best Supporting Actor
• Ardrey Kell High School - JJ Monteleone as Warner Huntington III - Legally Blonde
• Carmel Christian School - Luke
• Marvin Ridge High School - Adithi Belur as Jane Banks - Mary Poppins
• Myers Park High School - Rachel Stitt as Torrey - Freaky Friday
• Parkwood High School - Emilie Heffel as Snoopy - You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown (Revised)
• Porter Ridge High School - Kayla Thomas as Rosie - Mamma Mia
• Providence Day School - Rowan Barwick as Storm - Peter Pan
• Providence High School - Hanna Kim as Sandra - All Shook Up
• South Mecklenburg High School - Abigial Guy as Paulette Buonufonte - Legally Blonde
• Weddington High School - Maka Magombadze as Matron Mama Morton - Chicago: Teen Edition
David Willis
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
May
2-3:30
to Read Children, ages 5-11, read to a volunteer therapy dog at the Matthews Library. Sign up for a 15-minute session upon arrival. Registration opens 15 minutes before the rst session.
cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 10-11 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station
and Control and visit local vendors.
facebook.com/minthillevents
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; 9801 Brief Road, Mint Hill Musical Storytime Opera Carolina presents a Musical Storytime with a reading of “A Busy Bee” and a performance at Matthews Library. Register in advance.
cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 11-11:45 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Puzzle Swap Mint Hill Library hosts a Puzzle Swap. Trade in puzzles of at least 100 pieces (with no missing pieces).
cmlibrary.org/locations/Mint-Hill
11 a.m.-noon; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Service Saturdays Mint Hill Library o ers a community service opportunity for teens during Service Saturdays. cmlibrary.org/locations/Mint-Hill
1:30-2:30 p.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
Chess Club Children, ages 5 and older, as well as their families, meet for Chess Club at the Mint Hill Library. ey’ll get to try out strategies to win.
cmlibrary.org/locations/Mint-Hill
3-4 p.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
Writing Group
e Teen Writing Group at Matthews Library shares work and feedback. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews.
3:30-4:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews 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 lm “ e Jungle Book” (7 p.m.), courtesy of Union County Parks and Recreation. Popcorn and popsicles will be available. Bring a chair. wesleychapelnc.com
4-7 p.m.; 6490 Weddington Road, Wesley Chapel Patriotic Concert Matthews Concert Band presents “Music of Remembrance and Celebration” at First Baptist Church sanctuary. All of the band’s concerts this season pay tribute to the men and women who served in World War II 80 years ago. e concert features “Homefront: Musical Memories of WWII,” “Elegy for the USS Arizona,” “Band of Brothers” (Special Video Presentation), “Stars and Stripes Forever” and more. Admission is free. Donations are accepted.
7:30 p.m.; 185 South Trade St., Matthews
for a land swap. e campus, including three adjacent town-owned sites, will be part of the planning for the replacement school. CMS will also manage the construction of the school and museum.
The future park would be an add-alternate to the school’s construction bid package, according to Hawke.
“ at would allow us to get a hard cost of what that would require to make sure that would be feasible,” Hawke said. “If it’s not feasible nancially, then that would be something that would be a phased approach that we can come back at a later date and develop that
May 5 Baby Storytime
Children, ages 0-2, engage in stories and songs during Baby Storytime at Mint Hill Library. Registration opens 30 minutes before the event.
cmlibrary.org/locations/Mint-Hill
9:30-10 a.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
Family Storytime
Children, ages 0-5, engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Matthews Library. Register at the train desk within 15 minutes of the program starting. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 10:15-10:45 or 11-11:30 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews Master Gardeners e Mecklenburg County Extension Master Gardeners presents a workshop, “Right Plant, Right Place,” at Matthews Library. Register in advance.
cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 1-2 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Conversation Club Matthews Library hosts an Intermediate Spanish Conversation Club for Pretteens and Teens with games and activities. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 1:30-2:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Book Club e Mystery Book Club discusses “ e River We Remember” by William Kent Krueger at Mint Hill Library.
cmlibrary.org/locations/Mint-Hill 2-3 p.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
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 arrival. Registration opens 15 minutes before the rst session.
cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 3:30-4:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Story Explorers
Children, ages 5-8, learn about the Paleolithic Period during Story Explorers at Matthews Library. Register in advance by calling 704-416-5000, ext. 2. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 4:15-5 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
May 6
Family Storytime
Children, ages 0-5, engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Matthews Library. Register at the train desk within 15 minutes of the program starting.
cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews
10:15-10:45 or 11-11:30 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Family Storytime Families engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Mint Hill Library. Registration starts 30 minutes in person before the start of the event.
cmlibrary.org/locations/Mint-Hill
10:15-10:45 or 11-11:30 a.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
Knot Just Knitting Adults engage in conversation and projects with fellow knitters during Knot Just Knitting at Mint Hill Library.
cmlibrary.org/locations/Mint-Hill Noon-2 p.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
May 7
Baby Storytime Children, ages 0-2, build language and socialization skills in Baby Storytime at the Matthews Library. Register for the event 15 minutes before the program.
cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 9:15-9:45 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Preschool Storytime Children, ages 3-5, engage in stories and songs during Preschool Storytime at Mint Hill Library. Registration opens 30 minutes before the program starts. cmlibrary.org/locations/Mint-Hill 11:15-11:45 a.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
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 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 arrival. Registration opens 15 minutes before the rst session.
cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 3:30-4:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
park.”
Another element of the partnership is that CMS would receive a portion of town property at McKee and Pleasant Plains roads for a future relief school. Once the land swap boundaries are determined, town leaders have the option of developing a park on that property.
Mayor John Higdon and multiple commissioners expressed excitement about the project and credited town sta for their work on developing this partnership.
“Can you imagine going to an elementary school when you can just walk next door for a eld trip?” Higdon said. “Wow, that’s going to be so awesome.”
Hawke explained that town sta has been exploring the idea of adding a park
Flowers for Mom Children, ages 5-11, make a craft and card for Mother’s Day during Crafternoon: Flowers for Mom at Mint Hill Library. cmlibrary.org/locations/Mint-Hill
4-4:45 p.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
Pajama Storytime
Children, ages 0-2, and their families enjoy stories, songs and movement through Pajama Storytime at Matthews Library. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 6:30-7 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
May 8 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, 0-5, listen to stories and songs during Family Storytime at Mint Hill Veterans Memorial Park. cmlibrary.org/locations/Mint-Hill 10-10:30 a.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
Park Storytime Children, ages 2-5, listen to stories and songs during Storytime in the Park at Squirrel Lake Park.
cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews
11-11:30 a.m.; 1631 Pleasant Plains Road, Matthews
Genealogy Essentials
Librarian Danielle Pritchett leads a
Genealogy Essentials: A Beginner’s Roadmap for Successful Research at Mint Hill Library. Register in advance. cmlibrary.org/locations/Mint-Hill 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
Cooking Club e Teen Cooking Club talks about bento lunch boxes at Mint Hill Library. Register in advance by calling 704-416-5200.
cmlibrary.org/locations/Mint-Hill
3:15-4:15 p.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
Chess Club Children, ages 5-11, play chess during Chess Club at the Matthews Library. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 4-5 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
May 9 Job Search
Matthews Library o ers one-on-one help during Job Search Assistance. Register in advance. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews
10-11 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Date Night Drop-O Matthews Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resource hosts a Date Night Drop-O at Crews Recreation Center. Parents can get a night out while their kids (ages 6-13) play games and sports as well as work on arts and crafts. Pizza and drinks are available. e cost is $10 per child with $5 per additional sibling. Register in advance at matthewsfun.com.
5-9 p.m.; 1201 Crews Road, Matthews
Cruise-In Muscle cars are on display during the Cruise-In on Main Street in Monroe e event continues on the second Friday of each month. 6-8 p.m.; North Main Street, Monroe
Matthews Summerfest Matthews Summerfest features live music, street food, small shops, craft beer and a carnival atmosphere at Stumptown Park. e Catalinas (6:30-8 p.m.) and Spiderwebs (8:30-10 p.m.) perform on the rst day of the two-day festival. matthewsnc.gov 6-10 p.m.; 120 S. Trade St., Matthews
Community eater e Union County Playmakers present “Big River” at 7 p.m. May 9, 10, 16 and 17 as well as 2:30 p.m. May 11 and 18 at Benton Heights Elementary School Performing Arts Center. Tickets cost $18.86 for adults and $16.78 for seniors and students. Buy them at unioncountyplaymakers.org.
7-9 p.m.; 1205 Cherry St., Monroe
May 10
Matthews Summerfest Matthews Summerfest features live music, street food, small shops, craft beer and a carnival atmosphere at Stumptown Park. Next Level Band (2:30-4 p.m.), Smokey Jones & e 3 Dollar Pistols (4:30-6 p.m.), Blackwater Band (6:30-8 p.m.) and Captain Mike & e Shipwrecked (8:30-10 p.m.) perform on the second and last day of the festival. matthewsnc.gov 6-10 p.m.; 120 S. Trade St., Matthews
to a portion of the Matthews Elementary School campus since summer 2022. Discovery Place approached the town about a partnership in fall 2023.
Commissioner Renee Garner sought assurances that the public would have an opportunity to learn about the project, ask questions and share concerns. Garner said she would not feel comfortable voting on any agreements until the public gets a chance to weigh in.
Hawke said she would try to schedule a public input session soon and mentioned there would be opportunities throughout the development process for feedback.
Town commissioners and school board members are expected to vote on formal
Hacker to run for Matthews commissioner in 2025
MATTHEWS –
Brian Hacker has announced his candidacy for the Matthews Board of Commissioners.
Brian Hacker
Hacker has seen the town grow both as a resident since 2012 and through his experiences as a communications professional for a local school district and healthcare system. He currently teaches high school English. e thought of running for o ce has been on his mind for a few years. Within the last six months, Hacker realized he could serve as a commissioner in Matthews to impact the people he feels need representation.
He said people need to realize that everything in government begins locally.
“People need to understand that just because it's local doesn’t mean it’s not important,” Hacker said. “It is even more important because what happens here a ects your daily life.”
Hacker said the town has amazing schools, parks, greenways, restaurants, shops and other opportunities. He wants to ensure growth is steady and manageable.
Matthews and its residents have changed over the years. Hacker said there is not one type of family living in Matthews and the town needs to acknowledge that.
He believes Matthews is a town for everyone. Hacker said we need to welcome everyone who are residents, potential residents and visitors to the town. is includes people of color, LGBTQ+ and all socioeconomic levels.
He wants to make sure everyone is represented in city planning and projects. He wants to ensure people “outside the power structure” are addressed, whether with housing developments or groups who have events in the town.
“While I am new to politics, I have been observing what has been happening in the town, and there needs to be representation for all,” Hacker said.
Visit reads, Facebook and Instagram for more information on Hacker and his campaign.
About the 2025 election
Candidates for municipal races, such as Matthews and Mint Hill, will o cially le from 8 a.m. July 7 to noon July 18, according to the Mecklenburg County Board of Elections. e election will be held Nov. 4.
CMS’s Cline shares disappointment in teacher pay
By Lisa Cline Contributor
Editor’s note: Lisa Cline, who represents District 5 on the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education, gave the following remarks April 22 about why she did not support Superintendent Crystal Hill’s recommended 2025-26 budget. e board approved the budget by a vote of 5-3.
I’ve asked from the beginning of this budget process for more money to be allotted for the teacher supplement and for local salaries.
A 5% ask for our county commission is not enough for our teachers.
And on Feb. 1, we approved our legislative agenda, where we asked for an 8% increase for teachers from the state. But our district is only planning for a 3% increase.
So why would we not consider planning for 8% with the 5% supplement plan? Are you asking me to say, ‘Oops, we’ve made a mistake with our legislative ask?’ is in itself is going to make it di cult for us to go to the legislative assembly and ask for more money.
Today, our beginning teachers earn less than $50,000 a year and top out with less than $70,000 a year with 30 years of experience. CMS can not keep teachers in the classroom on this salary. Many of them look for positions within the district outside so that they can make more money.
Parents send us their most valuable treasure – their children.
We can not ask the county for more money? I’m disappointed in that.
We need to be more competitive with our neighbors to the south of us and with Wake County. It is no wonder teachers are leaving the profession, speci cally in our county. Our teachers are not paid enough.
Prior to spring break, I had the opportunity to listen to four teachers share their concerns about teacher pay. I was moved
by what they had to say and what they do daily. I shared this with Dr. Hill. One of the teachers is in her second year and is considering leaving the profession and the state because of the lack of pay. We can’t a ord to do this. Our teachers deserve our support for higher supplements and higher ask. At the last board meeting, we saw teachers ask for more money. But if we, the board, don’t ask, how are we going to increase those chances for the teachers?
Moneys have been asked for in this budget without clear de nitive answers to where they’re going. I asked tonight and I asked last time about the million dollars for high dosage tutoring. I’m still not clear on that.
Finally, the budget is based on estimated county and state forecasts. I’ve repeatedly asked for a contingency plan and I appreciate tonight being told that we are holding back 65% of the Title I moneys. But I’m truly concerned about the Title 2 and 3 moneys. I believe that we will see substantial cuts from the federal government. It’s a fact.
I always have a plan A and a plan B. I would have liked to have seen some type of an outline for a plan B, not a whole thing but something. In 2023, we asked our citizens to approve a $2.5 billion bond initiative. Now granted, 65% of the 15.47% who voted and that’s 9% approved it. Regardless of the number, if we have these new buildings for our students, will we have teachers in those buildings if we do not invest in that?
A parent today told me she would be OK with an older school as long as her child had a quali ed teacher to teach. I’m concerned about having those quali ed teachers.
So as a former educator and a CMS employee, I can not support this budget that does not support our teachers. I appreciate all the work that has been done but I have to support the teachers.
agreements outlining the partnership and land swap during May meetings.
Hawke described the downtown park as a replacement for Stumptown Park, which prompted Commissioner Mark Tofano to ask
if Stumptown will remain a park. Hawke replied this
This map shows the Matthews Elementary School site, outlined in bold white. Red represents town-owned property, navy blue represents the site of the future
courtesy of Town of Matthews
REGIONAL
Carolina Renaissance Festival to hold auditions
HUNTERSVILLE – The Carolina Renaissance Festival is holding open auditions for colorful personalities of all types to bring to life the make-believe Village of Fairhaven.
Amateur and professional opportunities are available for actors, street performers, cosplayers, historical reenactors, musicians, singers, dancers, variety acts and stagehands.
Auditions will be held from 9 a.m. to noon May 31 and June 7 at the Bonnie Cone Leadership Academy, 16115 Poplar Tent Road, Huntersville.
Auditionees should be ages 13 or
older. Register in advance at Carolina. RenFestInfo.com.
Performers at the festival engage in the art of all day play through interactive, immersive theater. Cast members are to participate in a series of free summer workshops and rehearsals that will prepare them on how to adapt their skills to the outdoor, renaissance theme.
Sessions include costuming, period language, accent, character development and improv.
New this year, the festival is seeking solo performers and/or established ensembles to perform traditional folk
dancing in styles of Irish Step, Morris, Scottish Highland or early English Clog.
e Carolina Renaissance Festival is a combination of outdoor theater, circus, arts and crafts fair, jousting tournament and feast, all rolled into a daylong, outdoor family adventure.
The Carolina Renaissance Festival returns for its 32nd annual season Saturdays and Sundays, Oct. 4 to Nov. 23 on a 250-acre farm at the junction of N.C. 73 and Poplar Tent Road. Tickets will be available for purchase starting July 1 at Carolina.RenFestInfo.com.
Levine Museum of the New South deepens its reach
CHARLOTTE – As the Levine Museum of the New South prepares to leave its interim space at 401 S. Tryon St., it remains steadfast in its mission to explore the past, illuminate the present and shape a more just future.
At the recent CataLysT fundraiser, attendees supported the museum’s work and direction. Raising more than $155,000, the event united civic leaders, cultural change-makers, and supporters to celebrate the museum’s vision.
As part of the evening’s program, guests enjoyed a short documentary capturing Charlotte leaders and change-makers on their journey visiting Alabama’s Civil Rights landmarks. Inspired by the impact of this experience, the museum plans to host more of these immersive Legacy Tours.
“This year’s CataLysT wasn’t just a fundraiser, it was a reflection of how deeply people believe in what we’re building,” said Richard Cooper, CEO and president of Levine Museum of the New South. “We’re honoring the stories that shape us while reimagining what a 21st-century museum can be and look like.”
The museum announced its new CataLysT Fellowship Program, a year-long leadership experience for college students. e museum will partner with area colleges and universities to welcome 10 student fellows who will
engage in historical study, travel to sites of memory, participate in workshops and dialogues, and design community-focused projects.
“ is fellowship is about planting seeds of change,” Cooper said. “We’re building a space for students to dive deep into the connections of the past and present, and for them to re ect, connect and lead future generations – with history as both a mirror and a map.” at same spirit of connection continues through the museum’s programming, including its next Community Conversations: Housing Justice on May 6 at the University City Regional Library. e evening will explore the past and present of housing injustice, featuring a conversation between author and activist Greg Jarrell and Val Brown, the museum’s chief education and strategist partnership ofcer. rough stories and dialogue, attendees will examine the inequalities that have shaped Charlotte housing and the work ahead to create more equitable systems.
e museum has also joined a national campaign connected to America250, which is celebrating a year-long 250th anniversary of the United States, which culminates on July 4, 2026. rough this initiative, Levine Museum invites people across the region to share their re ections and “birthday wishes” for the country on this Digital Wishwall, an opportunity to center Southern voices in a national conversation. Community members can contribute online via the Levine Museum website now and throughout the coming year, leading up to the celebration. The museum encourages the community to engage further in regional history through the “Our New South” podcast, which delves into conversations and topics a ecting the region today, as well as the Brooklyn Walking Tour via the KnowCLT app, a self-guided experience that brings the history of Charlotte’s once-thriving Black neighborhood to life. On the web: museumofthenewsouth.org
DINING SCORES
Health departments in Mecklenburg and Union counties inspected these restaurants from April 17 to 23:
Charlotte (28209)
• Harris Teeter (deli), 5030 Park Road – 98.5
• Luisa’s Brick Oven Pizzeria, 1730 Abbey Place – 97
• Taco Bell, 1800 E. Woodlawn Road – 97.5
• Wendy’s, 4335 Park
LIVE MUSIC
DON KBRN World Tour in Charlotte on Aug. 27 with a performance at Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre. is tour follows the recent success of “DON KBRN,” Eladio's sixth studio album, which debuted last month. e album was the #1 release on Spotify's USA and Global Top Albums Debut Charts. e album's singles, “Vetements,” “H.I.M.,” “Romeo y Julieta” and “El Reggaetón del Disco,” have charted around the world. Eladio has also shared the video for "BRANZINO," a collaboration with Big Sean. is marks Eladio’s most expansive tour yet, following his return to the trap roots that shaped his rise.
Eladio Carrión’s 31-date tour opens in Charlotte CHARLOTTE – Latin GRAMMY-winning artist Eladio Carrión will open his
After establishing his reputation as one of the most powerful live performers in Latin trap with the Sol María Tour of 2023, Eladio now returns to the stage with a
The Levine Museum of the New South shared its work and vision with supporters during its recent CataLysT fundraiser.
Photo courtesy of Levine Museum of the New South
You’ve been dressing up for the Carolina Renaissance Festival for many years, so why not audition to become a performer?
Photos courtesy of Carolina Renaissance Festival
Leaving the nest? Consider purchasing renters’ insurance
By Mike Causey Contributor
Caps and gowns have been ordered. Graduation announcements are being sent out. Before long, young men and women will be walking across a stage at high school and college campuses across North Carolina to accept their hard-earned diplomas.
Not long afterward, a number of young adults will be moving out of their parents’ homes, some temporarily, others permanently. Some will be moving into dormitory rooms or apartments while at college. Others leaving the family nest may be moving into some other form of rental housing.
One of the items to check into when moving into your own space is renters’ insurance.
Carrión is curating a live experience that fully immerses fans in the “DON KBRN” universe, celebrating his artistic evolution while staying true to the genre that made him a standout in Latin music.
May 2
• Evening Muse: Bearly Dead; The Alex Lopez Xpress & Memphis Lightning
• Mary O’Neill’s Irish Pub: Matthew Ablan
• Neighborhood Theatre: Sofia Isella
• OMB Ballantyne: Time Machine
• OMB LoSo: Crystal Fountains
• PNC Music Pavilion: Cody Johnson
• Shep’s Bar & Grill: Amicola
• Stooges Pub & Grub: Next O’ Kin
• The Courthouse Self-Pour Beer & Wine: Jack Fontana
• The Trail House: Steel County Express
May 3
• Americana Beer Co.: Adam Daniels
• Great Wagon Road Distillery: Traxx Trio
• Moochies Tavern: Underground Owls
• Neighborhood Theatre: Mallrat w/ Anna Shoemaker
• OMB Ballantyne: The Dialtones
• OMB LoSo: Something Like That
• Peddlers Paradise Bartique: White Sage
• Stooges Pub & Grub: Mike’d Up
• The Fillmore: Hippie Sabotage
• The Trail House: Radio Source
Renters’ insurance is affordable and can be an invaluable tool for peace of mind. You’ll know that if your belongings are stolen, damaged or destroyed by fire, storms, smoke, vandalism or other covered causes, they will be replaced promptly.
Many renters have a misconception regarding what is covered inside their rental home. Your personal items, such as your clothing, laptop, cell phone television and furniture are not covered by your landlord’s policy. Landlord policies only cover the landlord’s property.
If you’re renting, you may want to check the homeowners’ policy that your parents have. Some homeowners’ insurance policies include coverage for their children renting while away at college.
I encourage you to reach out to your insurance agent to discuss renters’ insurance. Or you may want to get quotes online. This coverage ensures you’re prepared for unexpected
• The Underground: Alex Warren
• The Union Exchange: Matt & John
May 4
• Evening Muse: Josh Lovelace
• Ovens Auditorium: Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo
• The Fillmore: Duki World Tour
• The Underground: BOA
May 5
• Evening Muse: Open mic
• Neighborhood Theatre: Rachel Platten
May 6
• Evening Muse: Open mic
• Neighborhood Theatre: Grateful Shred
May 7
• Local Logic: DJ SweeTee
• Peddlers Paradise Bartique: Open mic
• The Fillmore: Elderbrook
May 8
• Amos’ Southend: Almost Monday
• Neighborhood Theatre: Hackensaw Boys
• Ovens Auditorium: The Temptations & The Four Tops
• The Underground: Knox
May 9
• Amos’ Southend: Honestav
• Evening Muse: The Brothers Gillespie; Elijah Cruise
• Great Wagon Road Distillery: Carrie Ann
emergencies.
A renters’ insurance policy protects your personal property against damage or loss and covers you in case someone gets injured while on your rented property. Also extends protection to your home’s contents and the personal belongings of those who share your space. Coverage is subject to a designated limit, which is agreed upon by you and the insurance company and specified in the insurance policy.
Typically, renters’ insurance protects against several perils, including fire, lightning, vandalism, theft, ice, snow and sleet.
Water or steam damage from plumbing issues is generally covered while ood damage from nearby streams is not covered and requires a separate ood insurance policy.
If your rental home becomes temporarily unhabitable because of a covered incident, renters’ insurance kicks in to cover additional living expenses, such as housing, meals and storage.
• OMB Ballantyne: Rich and Single
• OMB LoSo: Knights of Flannel
• The Amp Ballantyne: Journeyman
• The Courthouse Self-Pour Beer & Wine:
Chance Howland
• The Trail House: Don’t Blink
• The Underground: Grentperez
• Visulite Theatre: Runaway Gin
Live Music Venues
Charlotte
• Amos’ Southend: 1423 S. Tryon St.
• Evening Muse: 3227 N. Davidson St.
• Neighborhood Theatre: 511 E. 36th St.
• OMB Ballantyne: 15025 Bowl St.
• OMB LoSo: 4150 Yancey Road
• Ovens Auditorium: 2700 E. Independence Blvd.
• PNC Music Pavilion: 707 Pavilion Blvd.
• Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre: 1000
NC Music Factory Blvd.
• The Amp Ballantyne: 11115 Upper Ave.
• 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
• Independence Harley-Davidson: 9205 E. Independence Blvd.
Remember to keep your receipts.
Renters’ insurance shields you if you’re held liable for injury to others or damage to the rental property. It can cover medical expenses for individuals accidentally injured on your premises. Some insurance companies offer discounts if you have burglar and smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems or deadbolt lock on your exterior doors. Ask your agent if you’re eligible to receive any discounts. Remember to read through your policy to make sure you understand it before you sign it.
If you have questions, ask your agent.
If you need help with your insurance, please call our toll-free number at 855-408-1212 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays to speak to a consumer expert. You may also visit our web page at www.ncdoi.gov.
Mike Causey serves as insurance commissioner for North Carolina.
CLASSIFIEDS
Physician, Vascular Surgeon, Carolinas Physicians Network, Inc. d/b/a Atrium Health Medical Group, Shelby & Charlotte, NC. Wrk at Vascular Outpatient Clin. Supv 1. Reqs MD frm accred sch of Med / equiv. Reqs unrest lic to pract med in NC & DEA lic. Mst have comp Gen Surg Res & Clin Vasc Surg Fllwshp. Mst be Brd Cert in Vasc Surg / elig for cert at time of hire & maint dur full trm of empl. Reqs nom US trv. Hires sbmt to drg & b/g chck. M-F, 7a-5:30p (hrs vary) & rotat wknd on-call sched. Apply: res to: carolyn.j.miller@atriumhealth.org & ref #116175.
Dir, Data Intelligence. Compass Group USA, Inc. Charlotte, NC. May telco M & F w/i commute dist of Charlotte, NC. Wrk in off Tues.- Thurs. Resp for dir of data intel proj, w/ leadrshp over data strtgy & alignmnt w/ org obj re: food tech sys. Wrk M-F 8a -5p EST regardless of loc. Supv up to 10. Reqs Bach in Fin / FE / Stats / rel / equiv. Reqs 7 yrs exp use food tech sys incl 7 yrs PM exp incl mng & priortze multi proj in fast-pcd environ; Power BI; VBA; 3 yrs: P2P; eProcurement; Sitecore; SQL; 1 yr: Dynamics 365. Reqs 15% US trv. Apply: res to: shared.talentacquisitionoperations@ compass-usa.com & ref #116659.
