The 03-21-2025 Edition of Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly by Street Media

By Justin Vick Contributor

MATTHEWS – The Town of Matthews is letting the Matthews HELP Center move forward on plans to develop a 9,000-square-foot addition, a curb-side drop-off area for donations and more parking to its property.

e Matthews HELP Center operates out of 119 North Ames St. e nonpro t needed to get approval from the town for the change in zoning conditions to the 1.3-acre site.

“We're here to help our neighbors during a time of crisis in the greater Matthews community,” Executive Director Sandra Rose said during the Feb. 10 public hearing. “Last scal year, we served 6,553 children and adults in our community.” Rose said the addition will serve as a re-

By Justin Vick Contributor

MATTHEWS – The Town of Matthews is another step closer toward securing funding for the design and construction of Purser-Hulsey Park as well as other parks and recreation upgrades.

Residents approved bonds in November 2022 to nance $14 million in parks and recreation projects and $21 million in transportation priorities.

Commissioners authorized the town March 10 to issue about nearly $11 million in park and recreation bonds to design and construct Purser-Hulsey Park as well as build the Riverbanks Greenway Connector, add restrooms at Windsor and Rice parks and add playground equipment to Squirrel Lake Park.

“This is an exciting milestone for our community,” Mayor John Higdon said in a statement from the town. “ e complete build-out of Purser-Hulsey Park is something our residents have eagerly anticipated for years, and I am very pleased to see it becoming a reality. Combined with upgrades to our existing parks, these projects will provide

tail space that could generate more than $300,000 in revenue for the nonpro t to help an additional 150 families in the community.

Volunteers would also have more room to process and store donations.

e drive-thru, which Rose described as “Chick- l-A-esque,” would allow volunteers to safely move donations inside to process.

Senior Planner Rob Will told Matthews commissioners March 10 there was general support for the nonpro t’s proposal but sta had three concerns that were ultimately addressed:

• Relocating or removing the existing landscape wall from the Ames Street right of way.

e nonpro t did just that to accomodate a ve-foot sidewalk and ve-foot planting strip.

• Adding stormwater controls given the increase in impervious surface. e town and county are reviewing plans with the center.

CHARLOTTE – Ashley Tanner was among Special Olympics North Carolina athletes to return home with medals or ribbons from the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, Italy.

Tanner won a silver medal in the Level 3 Free Skating event during the competition, which was held from March 8 to 15.

Other SONC winners were Trenton D’Agostino of Watauga County (snowboarding) and Stephen Foster of Buncombe County (Alpine skiing). Nearly 1,500 athletes competed in the games.

Tanner has been involved in Special Olympics since her days attending Butler High School in Matthews. She skates at Extreme Ice Center in Indian Trail.

wonderful spaces for residents to enjoy for generations.”

e sale of bonds will also support the construction of a 10-foot sidepath and planting strips along East John Street, from Greylock

Matthews HELP Center gets approval to expand

• Moving a dumpster away from a residential parcel and increasing the bu er to at least 10 feet next to neighboring R-20 residential zoning.

Town commissioners approved the change of zoning conditions March 10.

“ e application is consistent with the

Ridge to the I-485 Outer Ramp. is costs

$104,573.

The vote wasn’t unanimous.

Commissioners Gina Hoover, Leon reatt and Mark Tofano voted against the measure.

Tanner wins silver at Special Olympics World Winter Games

land-use plan because small businesses are a desirable use for the Downtown Adjacent designation, lending to the increased walkability of downtown,” Commissioner Ken McCool said. “ e application is reasonable because it allows for an existing business to expand.”

“I just want to make a comment that I'm still not completely committed in the bond issue,” reatt said March 10. eir concern was over the tax implications of issuing the bonds. A 1.35 cent property tax increase in 2026 would be needed to repay the debt service on the bonds. is re ects a $4.83 monthly impact to the average home value.

Town Manager Becky Hawke told commissioners that projects will start once funding hits the bank, likely by late April or May. Sta has been preparing a Request for Proposal for the design and construction of Purser-Hulsey Park and will likely have a rm in place by the time funding is received. e town said the 93-acre park will include an amphitheater, playground, splash pad, nature trails, clubhouse, picnic shelters and a pond with a pier. e project will take about three years to complete.

Commissioners stopped short of issuing bonds for the Matthews Downtown Loop. e $3 million project entails completing three segments of a multi-use path. e town has seven years to issue remaining bonds for projects.

BeachFest becomes Matthews Summerfest

MATTHEWS – The Town of Matthews is converting BeachFest into Matthews Summerfest, e 17th annual festival will take place from 6 to 10 p.m. May 9 and from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. May 10 at Stumptown Park. Admission is free.

Families can enjoy carnival rides, games, shopping, street food vendors, commercial exhibits and di erent genres of music on the main stage.

e band roster includes e Catalinas (beach), Spiderwebs (No Doubt tribute), e Next Level Band (Motown/top 40), Smokey Jones & e ree Dollar Pistols (classic country), Blackwater (beach/blues/funk), and Captain Mike & the Shipwrecked (Jimmy Bu ett tribute).

e carnival portion of Summerfest will open at 4 p.m. Friday, allowing guests to enjoy the rides before the main event begins. Wristbands and tickets will be available for purchase.

Seaboard, Southern Range, and Edge City breweries will o er craft beer for purchase. Patrons can enjoy their beer within the designated festival area, which includes Stumptown Park and the closed portion of South Trade Street.

Trade Street will close between John and McDowell streets starting at 9 a.m. May 9. e closure will expand to Main Street at 3:30 p.m. and remain in e ect until the festival ends.

Social media contests will be held in April and May on the parks and recreation Facebook page (@MatthewsParksAndRecreation) for a chance to win Summerfest merchandise.

Novant Health-Matthews Medical Center is sponsoring the event. On the web: matthewsnc.gov/specialevents

Photo courtesy of Town of Matthews

This drawing shows how the property will look once construction is complete. Notice the increased parking to the left. The addition will go behind the existing building.

Purser-Hulsey Park will include an amphitheater, splash pad, playground and pond. Photo courtesy of Town of Matthews

Ashley Tanner

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MASCOTS PUMP UP HOSPITAL PATIENTS

CHARLOTTE – The ACC was in town over the weekend for its men’s basketball tournament.

Mascots from throughout the conference visited Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center, Novant Health Hemby Children’s Hospital and Novant Health Charlotte Orthopedic Hospital to spread joy to patients and staff.

Firmin-Sellers to lead United Way of Greater Charlotte

CHARLOTTE – Kathryn Firmin-Sellers will become president and CEO of the United Way of Greater Charlotte, effective April 1.

Firmin-Sellers steps into the role as the seventh leader of the 94-year-old organization, succeeding Laura Yates Clark, who accepted the position of president at Foundation For e Carolinas in May 2024.

Firmin-Sellers was appointed interim president and CEO in July 2024 after previously serving the organization as chief impact o cer and executive vice president. Over the last nine months, she has continued advancing United Way’s mission, overseeing nearly $18 million in community investments and supporting 134 nonpro ts across Anson, Cabarrus, Mecklenburg and Union counties.

“Kathryn’s depth of experience with the organization and the community made her an exceptional candidate from the beginning of the CEO search and selection process,” said Bill Currens, chair of the United Way of Greater Charlotte board of directors. “Under Kathryn’s leadership and with her unwavering commitment to United Way’s mission, we look forward to continuing the critical work of supporting children and families in our region.”

As she transitions into the permanent role, Firmin-Sellers will continue to advance the strategic priorities of the organization, support the evolving needs of the community, ensure the United Way team’s alignment to its mission, and engage with key stakeholders and leaders to continue expanding impact e orts.

“I’m honored and excited to continue the work,” Firmin-Sellers said. “United Way is my home, and I look forward to leading our talented, mission-driven team as we build on our progress to create lasting change in the community.”

Since joining United Way in 2018, FirminSellers has led strategic initiatives to promote racial equity, strengthen disinvested communities, and enhance economic mobility.

Firmin-Sellers spearheaded A Home For All, an e ort to address housing instability and homelessness, and played a key role in launching the COVID-19 Response Fund, which raised and distributed nearly $24 million to 237 local nonpro ts.

Before United Way, Firmin-Sellers spent 11 years at Safe Alliance as chief operating o cer.

Charlotte FC’s Agyemang, Ream called up for international duty

By Sam Spencer Contributor

(SoccerSheet.com) – Patrick

Agyemang’s rst invitation to play for the United States Men’s National Team in January was exciting, but not much of a surprise. He was Charlotte FC’s top goal scorer in 2024, and not many young American players can say they were the top scorer for a team in one of the world’s top 10 or 15 professional leagues.

However, while the January camp took place before domestic leagues like MLS started playing, it was in the middle of the season for top European leagues like Serie A, the Bundesliga and the Premier League. Top USMNT talent playing abroad – for example, Christian Pulisic – skipped the camp, opening more roster slots for rst-time players like Agyemang. In many ways, the winter camp is a tryout for the real squad.

“I think he’s still a little bit raw, [he’s] a player you can feel that he can evolve and learn a lot, but I see the potential and the characteristics if he continues his progression,” said USMNT Head Coach Mauricio Pochettino. “Now it’s up to him.” Today, it looks like Agyemang passed the test and will have his rst chance to play in his rst competitive international match. United States Men’s National Team head coach Mauricio Pochettino has named Agyemang and Charlotte FC

defender Tim Ream to the 2025 Concacaf Nations League Finals roster.

“[Patrick Agyemang’s] characteristics as a striker and an o ensive player can provide the team di erent things,” said Coach Pochettino at a press conference announcing the roster. “I think it is good because we’re going to have three di erent strikers with three di erent characteristics.”

Because this competition is during a FIFA international window, top players like Pulisic are also on the roster. However, Agyemang and Ream will miss at least one MLS match against the San Jose Earthquakes at home on March 22.

Agyemang and Ream will join a familiar USMNT roster that includes faces from both the January camp and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar to take on Panama in the Nations League Semi nals in Los Angeles on March 20. If the team wins, they’ll advance to a nal against the winner of the semi nal between Canada and Mexico; if they should lose to the isthmians, they’ll play the other vanquished team in a third place match.

Ream has 67 caps for the national team and was on the roster for the USMNT’s 2024 Nations League Finals triumph. Charlotte FC is the only MLS team with multiple players on this Nations League roster, and join the likes of AC Milan, Juventus, Crystal Palace and Celtic with two players selected.

However, while the veteran Ream is

likely to be in the starting XI at center back, Agyemang has to compete for playing time, and the competition will be erce against Norwich City’s Josh Sargent – another player coached by Charlotte FC head coach Dean Smith – and Vancouver Whitecaps FC striker Brian White for who gets to start at striker in Pochettino’s preferred 4-2-3-1 formation.

Agyemang’s two goals during the January friendlies helped earn him the spot in the Nations League lineup, as did his unique style of play that can draw fouls at big moments – think James Harden, but playing soccer. It took Agyemang less than three minutes to earn the USMNT a penalty kick in his rst appearance, and it’s a testament to his ability to press.

Agyemang’s work ethic during his rst camp also impressed the coaching sta .

“We are so happy about [Agyemang’s play in] the January camp, he showed that we can trust in him,” Pochettino said. “To give the trust and calling him now is to show that we really believe in him.”

Agyemang and Ream will depart for the USMNT camp in California after Charlotte FC’s Saturday match at home against FC Cincinnati.

Charlotte FC star Patrick Agyemang has been called up to the 2025 Concacaf Nations League Finals roster. Sam Spencer/SoccerSheet.com

Photos courtesy of Novant Health

Drill meet was a celebration of precision and excellence

By Jeffrey J. Jenkins Contributor

On Saturday, March 1, Independence High School proudly hosted the 17th Annual Patriot Classic Drill Meet, welcoming 18 North and South Carolina schools.

Representing both Air Force and Army JROTC units, these cadets demonstrated outstanding discipline, teamwork and precision in a highly competitive and spirited event.

e success of this competition was made possible by the dedication, hard work and teamwork of so many individuals, and I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to everyone who contributed to making it such a memorable day.

Special thanks to our judges

We sincerely appreciate the 50 judges who volunteered their time and expertise to ensure the success of this event. eir commitment to fairness and excellence was invaluable.

Special thanks to:

• The 145th NC Air National Guard.

Run Jen Run raises record amount for breast cancer support

• US Army Recruiting Charlotte.

• US Marine Corps Recruiting Sub-Station Rock Hill.

• US Army Recruiter East Town Recruiting Station.

• Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) Carolina.

Team winners Congratulations to all the teams that competed with exceptional skill and dedication.

A special shout-out to our overall champions:

• 1st Place – Terry Sanford HS AFJROTC (NC-032).

• 2nd Place – Northside HS AFJROTC (NC-20052).

•3rd Place – Rock Hill HS AFJROTC (SC062).

A community effort

Events of this magnitude require the effort and dedication of an entire community, and we are incredibly fortunate to have such an amazing team here at Independence High School.

Your willingness to contribute your time, resources and expertise truly made a difference, and I am deeply grateful for your support.

Special anks to the business that donated: Home Again Foundation, Coca-Cola Company, Choice Beverage and Food Lion. ank you all for your commitment to

excellence and for making the 17th annual Patriot Classic Drill Meet an event to remember. We look forward to many more successful competitions in the years to come!

Lt Col Je rey J. Jenkins, USAF (Ret) is a senior aerospace science instructor at Independence High School.

CHARLOTTE – More than 1,100 participants took strides for local breast cancer patients at the 13th annual Run Jen Run 5K and Festival.

To date, the event has raised more than $195,000 – the most raised in the event’s 13-year history – to support the Go Jen Go Foundation and local breast cancer community.

“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make the 13th year of Run Jen Run so special and amazing,” said Susan Evren, executive director of Go Jen Go. “Honoring Jen’s legacy by showing up for breast cancer patients in financial crisis means the world to us. Our hearts are full, and our gratitude for our grantees, survivors and thrivers, sponsors, donors, participants, ambassadors, volunteers and race committee is immeasurable.”

e event took place on March 8 at Symphony Park. It included a 5K, fun run, festival with music and a kids’ fun zone.

ere was also an expo area with community-driven sponsors and partners, Jen’s Garden of Hope with Signs of Hope on display, and a Survivor/Thriver Corner for breast cancer patients to connect and be celebrated. Consolidated Planning was the title sponsor. Coastal Bridge Advisors, Novant Health and Smiley’s 4 C’s Charitable Endowment were presenting sponsors.

By the numbers

• 1,174 participants

• 67 teams

• 97 breast cancer survivors, thrivers and fighters

• 70 volunteers

• 56 sponsors and partners

• 32 Go Jen Go Grantees

MINT HILL – Servant’s Heart founder and Executive Director Kim Rhodarmer was honored March 8 by the Daughters of Clear Creek Militia as “A Woman in American History.”

Located in Mint Hill, the Clear Creek Militia Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution was founded in 1992 by Organizing Chapter Regent June Medlin Baucom. Today, the Daughters of Clear Creek Militia is a de-

voted and enthusiastic chapter of the NSDAR that is involved in a wide range of activities focused on promoting patriotism, historic preservation and education.

Rhodarmer was identified by the chapter in 2024 as a “Woman in American History” for her lifetime contributions to communities through social work.

“Your compassion and impact to the betterment of our community is exemplary,” noted Clear Creek Militia Chapter Regent M. Elizabeth Moore Theiling in her invitation. e award came as a sur-

prise to Rhodarmer, who was honored alongside seven other women from across North Carolina whose lifelong contributions to society merit their recognition. "What an incredible honor to be recognized for my life's work as a contribution to society,” Rhodarmer said. “I am more than humbled to receive an award alongside other recipients that day, including the late Ruth Graham, wife of the Rev. Billy Graham. I knew God called me to be a social worker at 16 years of age, and what a beautiful journey it continues to be."

Mary Beth Foster Contributor

Independence High School distributed to some hardware to teams that competed in the 17th Annual Patriot Classic Drill Meet. Photo courtesy of Jeffrey J. Jenkins

Kim Rhodarmer is honored for her contributions to the community. Photo courtesy of Mary Beth Foster

Easter Apps Made Easy

Weedeater to cut up in Charlotte CHARLOTTE – The memories might be fuzzy, but Weedeater members always remember a good time.

Six years ago, the Cape Fear legends commemorated the 10th anniversary of “God Luck and Good Speed” by hitting the road with their heavy Appalachian statesmen Bask. Now, they’re ready for a re-up.

e two Season of Mist label mates are touring the U.S. together this spring. ey’ll perform in Charlotte on May 1 at The Underground.

Get tickets: https://bit.ly/weedmetal

March 21

• Americana Beer Co.: Coleson Comer

• Amos’ Southend: Josh Ward

• Evening Muse: Timothy Chandler Hicks

• Grapes Bistro: David Porter

• Home Brew: Jim Tierney

• Local Logic: Dougie Plant

• Moochies Tavern: Bailey Marie Band

• Neighborhood Theatre: Enrage Against the Machine

• OMB Ballantyne: Weak Fade

• Ovens Auditorium: Los Tigres del Norte

• Peddlers Paradise Bartique: Tim Martin

• Shep’s Bar: Darren Deese

• Southern Range Brewing Company: Me and Lulu

• Stooges Pub & Grub: Flashback Band

• The Club House: 485

• The Courthouse Self-Pour Beer & Wine: Carrie Ann

• The Trail House: Vinyl Live

• The Underground: Sahbabii

• Visulite Theatre: The Chain (Fleetwood Mac tribute)

March 22

• Amos’ Southend: On the Border

• Cellar & Ale: Carrie Ann

• Great Wagon Road Distillery: Coconut Groove Band

• Home Brew: Ashlar Sargent

• Local Logic: Brandon Tenney

• Moochies Tavern: Minutes Past Midnight

• Neighborhood Theatre: Los Amigos Invisibles

• OMB Ballantyne: The Dialtones

• Peddlers Paradise Bartique: Leisure; Dual Drive

• Pineville Tavern: Grüv Soup

• Southern Range Brewing Company: Alan Gilbert & The Gamblers

• The Trail House: U-Phonik

• Vaulted Oak Brewing: Ellie Morgan

• Visulite Theatre: The Dirty Doors (The Doors tribute)

• Vintner’s Hill: Matthew Ablan

March 23

• Evening Muse: Waylon Wyatt

Home Brew: Sam Wilson Morris

March 24

• Evening Muse: Open mic

Spectrum Center: Deftones • The Underground: Maddie Zahm

March 26

• Home Brew: Danielle Hewitt

Neighborhood Theatre: Griffin House

Peddlers Paradise Bartique: Open Mic

• Spectrum Center: Tyler, the Creator

• The Fillmore: Connor Price

• The Trail House: River Lynch

March 27

• Evening Muse: Todd Day Wait

• Great Wagon Road Distillery: Open mic w/ Nate Whittenburg

• Neighborhood Theatre: Brenn!

• Spectrum Center: J Balvin

• Visulite Theatre: Wheatus

Caroline, green thumb

Weedeater specializes in heavy Appalachia. The band includes Jesse Van Note (bass), Scott Middleton (drums), Ray Worth (guitar) and Zeb Camp (guitar/vocals). Photo by Bryan Greenberg

S

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