– The Got Soul Festival is back for a second year of celebrating music, culture and community.
is festival is a celebration of the soul of the region, featuring a lineup of live entertainment, food, art and immersive experiences.
Radio personalities and Charlotte Hornets arena hosts Fly Ty and Jacinda will host the event. Legendary hip-hop DJ Kid Capri headlines the show. Walter Boston and Charnel Allen featuring the Darrin Jackson Encounter are also scheduled to perform.
e event takes place rain or shine from 3 to 8 p.m. April 26 at e Amp Ballantyne.
FARMERS’ MARKET TO HELP WESTERN NC FARMS
Buy tickets at CLTGotSoul.com.
“Got Soul is an outdoor celebration of the music, culture and the energy that make this region so special," said Kimberly Lightfoot, regional policies and procedures chair and president of the South Charlotte Chapter of Jack and Jill of America Inc. "We’re excited to bring the community together once again for a fun experience that gives back in a meaningful way."
Presented by the South Charlotte Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, last year’s Got Soul Festival drew over 700 attendees and $50,000 for local nonpro ts. e festival supports four charities:
CHARLOTTE – The farmers’ market at Village at Robinson Farm opens for 2025 on April 19.
Jason and Kristen Stone, of Unity Farms, have been hosting the market for over a decade. In that time, customers have enjoyed watching their children grow up and meeting their neighbors under the pavilion.
New this year to the market are all-cotton market bags sourced from Asheville that are available for $5, with proceeds going toward western North Carolina farmers who provide produce and plants to the market and are struggling to rebuild after Hurricane Helene.
Among other things, all the ramps, apples and Christmas trees sold at Village at Robinson market are from western North Carolina. All the sweet potatoes are from eastern North Carolina.
As in previous years, the market will randomly surprise customers who shop with a reusable bag with $20 gift certi cates to restaurants in Village at Robinson Farm. So buyers who snag a $5 bag to help a farmer might win $20 to spend at Butcher’s Market, Red Sake, Hawthorne’s Pizza, Famous Toastery or Bradshaw Social House.
e market operates from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays and Wednesdays through October. e Village at Robinson Farm is located at 8410 Rea Road. On the web: www.villageatrobinsonfarm.com
MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. – Liberty Senior Living brought 100 residents from 10 of its independent living communities for the fourth annual Liberty Games.
e Barclay at SouthPark and Brightmore of South Charlotte were among participating communities at the three-day, Olympicstyle event held recently at South Bay at Mt. Pleasant.
e Liberty Games were spearheaded four years ago by Haley Kinne-Norris, INSPIRE Wellness and Enrichment coordinator for Liberty Senior Living.
“I wanted to nd a fun way to bring everyone together for a healthy competition,” Kinne-Norris said.
Participants, ages 70 to 94, competed in bocce ball, putting, swimming, billiards, ping pong, shu eboard, a water balloon tossing o a fourth- oor balcony towards a bull’s eye on the ground.
Elizabeth Pierce, a resident of Brightmore of Wilmington, competed in several activities. Arthritis in one arm and shoulder and hip replacements “don’t hold me back from having a good time,” she said. “ is is a fun
and competitive way for me to represent my community and I feel great.”
e Liberty Games also included trivia, chess and other cognitive competitions.
Opening ceremonies started with a torch reportedly used in the Paris Olympics, a color guard presentation by cadets from the Citadel and the energetic entrance of each
Got Soul Festival coming to The Amp Ballantyne
• Freedom Within Walls aims to combat hunger and provide enrichment programs for impoverished children.
• Families Forward Charlotte partners with families in poverty to achieve lasting economic stability through education, support and individualized mentoring.
• Do Greater Charlotte provides tools, space and community support to help underserved groups turn ideas into opportunities.
• The Jack and Jill Foundation addresses issues a ecting African American children and families, focusing on quality education, healthcare and a safe environment.
Older adults compete at Liberty Games
and
of 10
team. Philanthropist and retired basketball o cial Dereck Whittenburg delivered the keynote address.
e ceremony ended with a headstand by Cookie Finkelstein, an 83-year-old athlete from South Bay at Mt. Pleasant. e sixtime cancer patient went on to win the halfmile walk.
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 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 take nand 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.”
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.
The farmers’ market at Village at Robinson Farm allows people to buy fresh food and meet their neighbors. Photos courtesy of Jennifer M Stanton
Marilyn
Ira represented The Barclay at SouthPark, one
communities, at the Liberty Games.
Marilyn, of The Barclay at SouthPark, attended the Liberty Games. Photos courtesy of Liberty Senior Living
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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
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
CMS leader wins leadership award
Blvd., Charlotte
Conversation Club Adults practice English-speaking and listening skills during English Conversation Cub at Pineville Library. Register in advance at cmlibrary.org/locations/ Pineville. 11 a.m.-noon; 505 Main St., Pineville
Spanish Conversation Adults practice their Spanish speaking skills during Intermediate/Advanced Spanish Conversation Club at South County Regional library. cmlibrary.org/ locations/south-county-regional 11 a.m.-noon or noon-1 p.m.; 5801 Rea Road ,Charlotte
Paws to Read Children, ages 5-11, read to a volunteer therapy dog during Paws to Read at SouthPark Regional Library. Kids read for 15 minutes. Register at the children’s desk or by calling 704-416-5421. Children are limited to one session per week.
5-6 p.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte
Paws to Read
Children, ages 5-11, read to a volunteer therapy dog during Paws to Read at South County Regional Library. Kids read for 15 minutes. Register in advance by calling 704-416-6600, option 2. Children are limited to one session per week.
5-6 p.m.; 5801 Rea Road, Charlotte
Book Club The Comics & Cookies book club discusses graphic novels, comics and books over cookies at Pineville Library. The club is for preteens. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Pineville
5:30-6:15 p.m.; 505 Main St., Pineville
April 25
Film Screening Children and adults can watch “Wall-E” at the Pineville Library. cmlibrary.org/locations/Pineville 9:30-11 a.m.; 505 Main St., Pineville
Family Storytime Families engage in literacy activities during Family Storytime at South County Regional Library. Get a ticket at the children’s desk 15 minutes before the program. cmlibrary.org/locations/ south-county-regional 10-10:30 a.m.; 5801 Rea Road, Charlotte
CHARLOTTE – Ingrid W. Medlock, of CharlotteMecklenburg Schools, has won the 2025 Dr. Samuel Houston Leadership Award, according to the N.C. School Superintendents' Association.
The award goes to a graduate of the association’s Aspiring Superintendent Program.
Medlock serves as chief of sta and community engagement for CMS. Her roles include strengthening strategic partnerships, enhancing district culture through community engagement and managing school board/sta relations.
“ is prestigious award not only honors her remarkable achievements but also acknowledges and celebrates the spirit of kindness, encouragement, and leadership she consistently demonstrates,” Superintendent Crystal Hill said.
Chaplains deploy to Dominican Republic
CHARLOTTE – e Billy Graham Rapid Response Team deployed crisis-trained chaplains to the Dominican Republic following the roof collapse at a nightclub.
At least 221 people were killed and 200 were injured.
“ e loss of life that we have seen in this incident is devastating,” said Josh Holland, international director. “Many people will ask the question, ‘Why?’ No matter how dark and hopeless the situation may seem, we can nd hope and light through Jesus Christ. at is the message the chaplains are sharing with the families and survivors today.”
e BG-RRT is ministering in areas like McNairy County, Tennessee (tornado); Poplar Blu , Missouri (tornadoes); Stillwater, Oklahoma (wild res); Los Angeles, California area (wild res); and Ukraine (con ict).
Celebrate Earth Day with CATS
CHARLOTTE – e Charlotte Area Transit System is celebrating Earth Day on April 22 by o ering fare-free rides on all modes of public transportation.
Sustainability is part of CATS’ strategic vision every day, making Earth Day an important time for the system to celebrate with the greater Charlotte community.
e City of Charlotte has a page (https://www.charlottenc.gov/CS-Prep/City-News/Earth-Day-Every-Day) on how to celebrate Earth Day everyday.
CATS to suspend Blue & Gold Line service for maintenance
CHARLOTTE – e Charlotte Area Transit System will suspend Blue and Gold Line services for preventative maintenance from 2 a.m. April 26 to 4 a.m. on April 28. Services will resume at 5 a.m. on April 28.
During this period, bus bridges will replace rail service. Information boards at stations will direct riders to bus bridge stops, which will be marked with Connector signs. Buses will also display “Bus Bridge” for easy identi cation.
Visit RideTransit.org for detailed bus bridge locations.
Charlotte Choir School holding spring concerts, auditions
CHARLOTTE – Charlotte Choir School announced the start of ticket sales for its Voices of Spring concert. e concert starts at 7:30 p.m. May 9 and 10 at St. Peter's Episcopal Church. Get tickets at charlottechoirschool.org.
Under the direction of Artistic Director Elizabeth Lenti, the concert will celebrate the season's transformation with performances by the school's children's and youth choirs.
Charlotte Choir School is also hosting Discovery Night – Open House & Auditions at 6 p.m. May 20 for children who will be in rst through eighth grade in fall 2025 and their parents. e evening will begin with a performance by the Tour Choirs, followed by auditions with the artistic sta . While children audition, parents will hear from Operations Director Hunter Rigsby about the school's history and impact. Learn more at charlottechoirschool. org/audition.
Mecklenburg County ABC Board launches new tools
CHARLOTTE – e Mecklenburg County Alcoholic Beverage Control Board is launching the ABC Retail and Mixed Beverage newsletter and the MXB ABC To Go platform this month as well as encouraging consumers to downtown the ABC To Go app. e MXB ABC To Go platform will o er permittees a streamlined solution for online ordering, in-store pickup and direct communication with the board. On the retail side, the ABC To Go app is live and available for download – making it easier than ever for customers to browse products and place orders for pickup.
Subscribe to “ e Mix,” a newsletter designed for both mixed beverage and retail audiences, to stay informed on the latest updates, compliance tips and community events. Join at https://cms8.revize.com/revize/mecklenburgcounty/mailing_list/index.php.
Dr. Ingrid W. Medlock has worked more than 30 years in education, including administrative roles with Chapel HillCarrboro City Schools and the Mooresville Graded School District. Photo courtesy of NCSSA
• 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.
