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Entries for March 2014

28

Concord Weekly Update - March 28, 2014

Posted on March 28, 2014

 

Did you know?
Did you know irrigating lawns with public water is only permitted on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays in the City of Concord? Water is a precious resource, and our citizens do their part year round to "save the drops" for future generations. Learn more at concordnc.gov/savethedrops.
 
Concord advances NCLM Hometown Showdown FINAL!
With over 1,300 Likes, Concord's entry of the 2013 Tree Lighting Ceremony and fireworks by local photographer Michael Anderson advanced past Garner to the fifth and final round of the NC League of Municipalities Hometown Showdown contest! Only 32 of 60 entries across the state made it into the brackets. Concord's final match against Bessemer City begins Monday March 31. To vote, visit facebook.com/NCLeague or concordnc.gov beginning Monday morning and LIKE the photo!
 
City Manager announces the promotion of public safety leaders
Concord City Manager Brian Hiatt has announced the promotion of two staff members to leadership positions within the City's public safety departments. Vicki Callicutt has been named Communications Director, and Jake Williams has been promoted to Deputy Fire Chief. The promotions go into effect Monday, March 31. Visit concordnc.gov to learn more.
 
Check out the Spring 2014 City Circular
The Spring 2014 issue of the City Circular is on its way, and the digital edition is available now, where you can read all the articles on your screen of choice. Looking for something from a recent issue? It’s in the digital archives, too – every story, every photo, and every page. Look for the bookshelf on concordnc.gov.
 
Health insurance enrollment deadline is Monday, March 31
The Cabarrus Rowan Community Health Centers have trained counselors available to help insurance registrants complete the hour-long application process before the March 31, 2014 open enrollment deadline. While there will be some exemptions, those who qualify under new Affordable Care Act guidelines but do not take the necessary steps to become insured will be penalized on 2015 tax returns. Working with support from a federal grant, the Cabarrus Rowan Community Health Centers scheduled enrollment sessions throughout the month of March. The centers operate three clinics in Cabarrus and Rowan Counties. Certified Application Counselors have been available to answer questions and assist with the application process, and the final opportunity is Saturday, March 29 from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Please click here or call 704-792-2274 for more information, or visit crchc.org.
 
Step into Culture and feel the Impulse at ClearWater Artist Studios
ClearWater Artist Studios, in collaboration with Rowan-Cabarrus Community College, presents the Step Into Culture student arts festival outreach event on Friday, April 4 from 12:00 noon until 6:00 p.m. Enjoy a diverse cultural experience with music performances, live art demonstrations, poetry, spoken word, food trucks, and vendor tables. At 6:00, the fun continues in the ClearWater Gallery for the Impulse student art reception and exhibition. Come embrace and experience the cultural and visual arts community! This event is free and open to the public. ClearWater Artist Studios are located at 223 Crowell Drive NW. Visit clearwaterartists.com or call Sarah Gay at 704-784-9535 for more information.
 
Housing Department offers FREE GED Classes
It's never too late to learn! If you need to improve basic reading math and language skills, or you want your GED, the Concord Housing Department offers classes Monday through Wednesday from 8:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. through a great partnership with Rowan- Cabarrus Community College (RCCC). Attendees must be 16 years or older, and not enrolled in a private or public high school. For more information, please call 704-920-6110.
 
Celebrate Earth Day in Historic Downtown Concord
Downtown Concord businesses will celebrate Earth Day on Saturday, April 12 from 11:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. Activities include: free Electronics Recycling drop-off in the Bicentennial Parking Lot; Earth Day rePLAY for kids at Trashed; learn how to take care of the Earth; and Earth-friendly giveaways! You can also browse Earth Day photos in Downtown shop windows and vote on your favorite through Saturday, April 19. More information will be available next week, stay tuned or call 704-920-5379!
 
Cabarrus County offers Public Safety Experience
If emergency response is exciting to you, don't miss the first class in Cabarrus County's new Government 101 Experience series. The Public Safety Experience will introduce participants to the County's Sherriff, Emergency Management and EMS service operations. Learn from public safety officers as they impart knowledge and take you on an adventure that includes live demonstrations, operational exercises and tours. The Public Safety Experience will be Friday, May 9 from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. at the Cabarrus County Sheriff's Office. Visit cabarruscounty.us to learn more and sign up by April 30, or call 704-920-2336.
 
Parks and Recreation highlights
Please see the Spring 2014 issue of Leisure Times for a full list of programs offered by the Parks and Recreation Department.
 
Bunny Run 5K and festival
The Bunny Run 5K and Festival will take place on Saturday, April 19 in Historic Downtown Concord. The 5K starts at 9:30 a.m. on Means Avenue, proceeding through the Downtown Connector and McEachern Greenway back to Means Avenue for the finish. Registration is available until Friday, April 11 at concordparksandrec.orgor in person at Academy Recreation Center, 147 Academy Avenue NW.
 
After the run, stay for some fun! The Bunny Run Festival will be Downtown from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. This free spring festival is great for the entire family and includes a climbing wall, inflatable amusements, arts and crafts, face painting, the Easter Bunny, and an interactive DJ with games and prizes.
 
Concord Youth Council seeks members for next school year
Rising high school freshmen, sophomores, and juniors can apply to Concord Youth Council for the 2014-2015 school year. Students who attend a school in Cabarrus County or are a City of Concord resident may apply.  CYC meets twice a month on Monday evenings throughout the school year. Learn more and find an application at concordnc.gov.
 
City of Concord upcoming meetings
Unless otherwise noted, location is second floor of Municipal Building, 26 Union Street, S.
 
April
8 at 4:00 p.m. City Council work session
22 at 6:00 p.m. Board of Adjustment
 
Stay Connected!
Visit the City's website for the latest information and updates at concordnc.gov. Check out our page on Facebook and our other interactive features!
Visit concordnc.gov to learn how you can be sure to receive timely updates from the City via phone, text, or email.

 

 

26

Concord's dancing in the Final Four!

Posted on March 26, 2014

 

The dancing continues!
 
Concord's entry of the 2013 Tree Lighting Ceremony and fireworks by local photographer Michael Anderson is a contender to reach the championship round in the NC League of Municipalities Hometown Showdown contest! Only 32 of 60 entries across the state made it into the bracket, and Concord is in the Final Four.
 
Concord is facing Garner this week. The picture with the most likes before the noon Friday deadline will advance to the final round. We can only get there with your help!
 
To vote, visit facebook.com/NCLeague or concordnc.gov and LIKE the photo! Those who do not use Facebook can still help by encouraging family, friends, colleagues, and customers to vote. The two finalists will be announced by NCLM at noon on Friday and will compete next week.
 
Don’t forget to SHARE the photo and encourage others to vote, or forward this email! Learn more at concordnc.gov.
 
Thank you for your help and Go Concord!
 

 

21

Concord Weekly Update - March 21, 2014

Posted on March 21, 2014

Did you know?

Did you know many of North Carolina's local government communicators work together to share ideas and resources, and establish relationships that may help communities in times of crisis or emergency? Visit nc3c.com about some of the people who work to keep citizens informed and engaged across the state.
 
Concord advances to the final four in NCLM Hometown Showdown contest
With over 1580 "likes," Concord's entry of the 2013 Tree Lighting Ceremony and fireworks by local photographer Michael Anderson advanced to the fourth round of the NC League of Municipalities Hometown Showdown contest! Only 32 of 60 entries across the state made it into the brackets. Concord's regional final match against Garner begins Monday March 24. Stay tuned and visit NCLM's Facebook page for more information!
 
Concord Police warn residents to beware of phone fraud scam targeting taxpayers
Concord Police Department advises citizens to pay attention to the warning from Treasury Inspector General for Taxpayer Administration (TIGTA) about "Phone Fraud Scam Targeting Taxpayers." Beware of phone calls from individuals claiming to represent the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and then asking you to make payments using pre-paid debit card or wire transfer. If you receive a suspicious call from someone claiming to be with the IRS, hang up and call the IRS at 800-829-1040. If you suspect or experience fraud, call Concord Police at 704-920-5000. For more information about tax scams and to learn how to protect yourself, click here or visit the IRS website at ww.IRS.gov.
 
Trained CRCHC counselors to assist with health insurance enrollment
The Cabarrus Rowan Community Health Centers have trained counselors available to help insurance registrants complete the hour-long application process before the March 31, 2014 open enrollment deadline. While there will be some exemptions, those who qualify under new Affordable Care Act guidelines but do not take the necessary steps to become insured will be penalized on 2015 tax returns. Working with support from a federal grant, the Cabarrus Rowan Community Health Centers have scheduled enrollment sessions throughout the month of March. The centers operate three clinics in Cabarrus and Rowan Counties. Certified Application Counselors will be available to answer questions and assist with the application process during various days and times. Appointments are encouraged to reduce wait time. Please click here or call 704-792-2274 for more information, or visit crchc.org.
 
Step Into Culture student arts festival
ClearWater Artist studio in collaboration with Rowan-Cabarrus Community Collegepresents Step Into Culture student arts festivaloutreach event on Friday, April 4, 2014 from 1pm until 8:00 p.m. The event will provide the community with a diverse cultural experience with: music performances, live art demonstrations, poetry, spoken word, food truck trucks and vendor tables, and the student Impulse Art Exhibition displayed in the Clearwater Gallery. Come and embrace and experience the cultural and visual arts community, and fun! This event is free and open to the public. ClearWater Artist Studios — 223 Crowell Drive, Concord, NC 28025. Please click here or call Sarah Gray at 704-784-9535 for more information.
 
Winners –Cabarrus County Fire & Life Safety Bowl
The Cabarrus County Fire and Life Safety Bowl was held on March 19, 2014 at the Connect Christian Church in Concord. Eleven teams of 4th and 5th grade students from Cabarrus and Kannapolis schools competed in a head to head quiz bowl tournament after studying various fire and life safety topics such as fire behavior, fire department history, burn prevention, and emergency preparedness. Concord Fire Department, Cabarrus County Fire Marshal’s Office, Kannapolis Fire Department and many local businesses partner to bring this “cleverly designed educational tool” to life. All expenses are paid with donations from the community and people who volunteer their time to assist. 
 
This year’s winners are: 1st Place: Bethel Elementary, 2nd Place: Rocky River Elementary and 3rd Place: R. Brown McAllister Elementary. The top three teams will go to the State Fire and Life Safety Bowl in April to compete with teams from other counties across the state. To find out more about the Fire and Life Safety Bowl please contact Jeff Bostian. bostianj@concordnc.gov.
 
Parks and Recreation highlights
Please see the Spring 2014 issue of Leisure Times for a full list of programs offered by the Parks and Recreation Department.
 
Bunny Run 5K and festival
The Bunny Run 5K and Festival will take place on Saturday, April 19th in Historic Downtown Concord.  The 5K starts at 9:30 a.m. on Means Avenue, proceeding through the Downtown Connector and McEachern Greenway back to Means Avenue for the finish. Registration is available online at www.concordparksandrec.orguntil 11:59 pm Friday, 4/11 and walk-in registration until 5:00 p.m. at the Academy Recreation Center, 147 Academy Ave. NW.  
 
After the run, stay for some fun! The Bunny Run Festival will be Downtown from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. This free spring festival is great for the entire family and includes a climbing wall, inflatable amusements, arts and crafts, face painting, the Easter Bunny, and an interactive DJ with games and prizes.
 
Adult softball registration now open
Registration is open for spring adult softball leagues through March 31. The registration fee is $375 per team and men’s open, men’s church, women’s and co-ed leagues are available. All ten regular-season games and the post-season single-elimination tournament are played at WW Flowe or Les Myers Parks. For more information and or to register online, visit concordparksandrec.org.
 
Feel like a kid with adult kickball
Co-ed adult kickball league registration is open through March 31, for just $375 per team. All ten regular-season games and the post-season single-elimination tournament are played at WW Flowe Park. The league will follow WAKA Kickball rules. Learn more and register online at concordparksandrec.org.
 
City of Concord upcoming meetings
Unless otherwise noted, location is second floor of Municipal Building, 26 Union Street, S.
 
March
24 at 5:30 p.m. City Council special meeting
25 at 6:00 p.m. Board of Adjustment
April
8 at 4:00 p.m. City Council work session
 
Stay Connected!
Visit the City's website for the latest information and updates at concordnc.gov. Check out our page on Facebook and our other interactive features!
Visit concordnc.gov to learn how you can be sure to receive timely updates from the City via phone, text, or email.
 

 

20

The final hours.... help get Concord to the Final Four!

Posted on March 20, 2014

 

Your help is needed!
 
Concord's entry of the 2013 Tree Lighting Ceremony and fireworks by local photographer Michael Anderson is on the brink of making it to the final four in the NC League of Municipalities Hometown Showdown contest! Only 32 of 60 entries across the state made it into the bracket.
 
Concord is trailing Mooresville but within reach of winning this round before the noon Friday deadline, but only with your help!
 
If you use Facebook, please help Concord get to the final four! Cast your vote for Concord by clicking this link and then LIKE the photo! Past votes in other albums will not count toward Sweet Sixteen voting. Voting will end Friday, March 21, at noon.
 
Or you can find the contest on the NCLM's Facebook page: facebook.com/NCLeague. Don’t forget to SHARE the photo and encourage others to vote, or forward this email!
 
Thank you for your help and Go Concord!
 

 

14

Concord Weekly Update - March 14, 2014

Posted on March 14, 2014

 

Did you know?
Did you know whether it is a decision between bike lanes or parking lanes, green space or garage space, a courthouse or convention center, professional local government managers are the people behind these decisions, turning policy into action and visionary ideas into tangible results. Professional managers help make good communities great, giving us a place we’re proud to call home. To learn more, visit LifeWellRun.org.
 
Highlights of the March 13 City Council Meeting
Please visit concordnc.gov to see the Council Agenda in its entirety.
 
Presented a retirement plaque to Master Police Officer Michael Trafton for over 17 years of service with the City of Concord.
 
Presented the Quarterly STAR Award to Solid Waste Services coworkers James Hudson, Jeremy Starnes, and Leonard Mason. Hudson, Starnes, and Mason were working their yard waste route in late November when they noticed two small children running barefoot in the street. Seeing they were cold, they immediately wrapped the children in their coats and placed them in cab of the truck while waiting for the police to arrive. It turned out the children were a few blocks from their home. Police credit Hudson, Starnes, and Mason for showing compassion and concern for the children, who were in a dangerous situation.
 
Recognized Water Resources Laboratory Coordinator Jeff Isley for receiving the Laboratory Analyst of the Year Award from the NC Waterworks Operators Association.
 
Recognition of the City of Concord Transportation Department for receiving a national award from the Salt Institute honoring snowfighters for protecting motorists and the environment.  
 
Received an update on planned Haulers on Union parade through downtown Concord.
 
Directed the City Clerk advertise for a public hearing at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, March 24 to consider the sale of the former Heilig-Meyers building and property located at 29 Cabarrus Avenue NE to Rehab Development, Inc. and CommunitySmith, LLC or their wholly owned subsidiary pursuant to NC General Statutes section 160A-457 (acquisition and disposition of property for redevelopment). Continued a public hearing to 5:30 p.m. on Monday, March 24 consider offering two grants for the repair and reconstruction of the same property.
 
Authorized the City Manager to negotiate a contract with Cabarrus County Schools for nine grant funded School Resource Officers (SRO's) for the remainder of the FY 13-14 school session and for the FY 14-15 school session.
 
Adopted a resolution authorizing the City Manager to accept and award a bid to Little Mountain Builders of Catawba County, Inc, for Phase Two of the Moss Creek Section of the Hector H. Henry, II Greenway, pending concurrence with award by the North Carolina Department of Transportation, and adopted budget and capital project ordinances to amend the project.
 
Concord advances to regional final in NCLM Hometown Showdown
With over 550 "likes," Concord's entry of the 2013 Tree Lighting Ceremony and fireworks by local photographer Michael Anderson advanced to the third round of the NC League of Municipalities Hometown Showdown contest! Only 32 of 60 entries across the state made it into the brackets. Concord's regional final match against Mooresville begins Monday March 17. Stay tuned and visit NCLM's Facebook page for more information!
 
Celebrate Operator Appreciation Day Tuesday, March 18
On March 18 join Rider Transit in celebrating the contributions of our hard-working transit bus operators! Bus Driver Appreciation Day is a day to thank all bus operators for transporting us safely through the community. A simple smile when you board the bus and a thank you when you leave. A coloring page is available at ckrider.com for younger passengers to draw their favorite operator. Don’t forget to call 704-920-7433 about a job well done so we can formally recognize their efforts. Check out at facebook.com/ridertransit for some suggestions on how to thank your operator.
 
Free Diabetes Alert Day event planned for March 21
The Housing Department joins the Cabarrus Health Alliance's Southeastern Diabetes Initiative to present Diabetes Alert Day on Friday, March 21.  The free event is planned for 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Neighborhood Networks Technology Center (265 Salem Street), and will include Diabetes screenings, exercise and nutrition demonstrations, guest speakers, giveaways, and more. For more information, visit cabarrushealth.org, or contact 704-920-1999 or sedi@cabarrushealth.org to register.
 
Trained CRCHC counselors to assist with health insurance enrollment
The Cabarrus Rowan Community Health Centers have trained counselors available to help insurance registrants complete the hour-long application process before the March 31, 2014 open enrollment deadline. While there will be some exemptions, those who qualify under new Affordable Care Act guidelines but do not take the necessary steps to become insured will be penalized on 2015 tax returns. Working with support from a federal grant, the Cabarrus Rowan Community Health Centers have scheduled enrollment sessions throughout the month of March. The centers operate three clinics in Cabarrus and Rowan Counties. Certified Application Counselors will be available to answer questions and assist with the application process during various days and times. Appointments are encouraged to reduce wait time. Please click here or call 704-792-2274 for more information, or visit crchc.org.
 
City of Concord upcoming meetings
Unless otherwise noted, location is second floor of Municipal Building, 26 Union Street, S.
 
March
24 at 5:30 p.m. City Council special meeting
25 at 6:00 p.m. Board of Adjustment
April
8 at 4:00 p.m. City Council work session
 
Stay Connected!
Visit the City's website for the latest information and updates at concordnc.gov. Check out our page on Facebook and our other interactive features!
Visit concordnc.gov to learn how you can be sure to receive timely updates from the City via phone, text, or email.

 

10

Support Concord this week in NCLM Hometown Showdown

Posted on March 10, 2014

 

With nearly 300 "likes" in the first round, Concord's entry of the 2013 Tree Lighting Ceremony and fireworks by local photographer Michael Anderson advanced to the second round of the NC League of Municipalities Hometown Showdown contest! Only 32 of 60 entries across the state made it into the brackets.
 
After a pause last week for the mountains and sandhills first round, Concord's sweet-sixteen match against Belmont began today, March 10.
 
If you use Facebook, you can help Concord get to the regional final! Cast your vote for Concord by clicking this link and then LIKE the photo! Past votes in other albums will not count toward Sweet Sixteen voting. Voting will end Friday, March 14, at noon.
 
Or you can find the contest on the NCLM's Facebook page: facebook.com/NCLeague. Don’t forget to SHARE the photo and encourage others to vote!
 
Thanks and Go Concord
 

 

07

Concord Weekly Update - March 7, 2014

Posted on March 07, 2014

 

Did you know?
Did you know with better weather approaching, there is another meaning to "spring cleaning?" Concord Fire and Life Safety encourages you to take the time to check your home for dangerous materials and unsafe conditions. Learn more about protecting your family at concordnc.gov.
 
NCDOT plans ramp and lane closures on I-85
The N.C. Department of Transportation has announced several ramp and lane closures for this weekend and next week as part of the $125.2 million I-85 widening project and I-85/I-485 interchange conversion. Plans include traffic shifts, diamond grinding, concrete paving, barrier wall relocation, and sign structure installation.
  • Entrance ramp from N.C. 73 to I-85 North is closed from 9 a.m. Friday, March 7 until 6 a.m. Sunday, March 9, weather permitting.
  • Exit ramp from I-85 South to N.C. 73 (Exit 55) will be closed from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 8, weather permitting.
  • Beginning at 9 p.m. Monday, March 10 through 6 a.m. Friday, March 14, the department is scheduling nightly lane closures on I-85 North and South near I-485.
NCDOT reminds motorists to watch signs for construction information, stay alert and obey the posted speed limit.
 
Customer Care Center adjusts hours to provide better service
The City of Concord is adjusting hours of operation for its Customer Care Center. Since becoming the City's main point of customer contact over the phone in January of 2000, the Customer Care Center has been staffed weekdays between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. A recent analysis showed consistently low call volume the first and last thirty minutes of each day and highest volume in the middle of the day. In order to provide better service, the Center's new hours effective Monday, March 10 are 7:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. More information about Customer Care is available at concordnc.gov.
 
Support Concord next week in NCLM Hometown Showdown
With nearly 300 "likes," Concord's entry of the 2013 Tree Lighting Ceremony and fireworks by local photographer Michael Anderson advanced to the second round of the NC League of Municipalities Hometown Showdown contest! Only 32 of 60 entries across the state made it into the brackets. After a pause this week for the mountains and sandhills first round, Concord's sweet-sixteen match against Belmont begins Monday March 10. Visit NCLM's Facebook page for more information.
 
Concord Electric crews to restore power in High Point
Following today's ice storm that affected much of Central North Carolina, the City Of Concord is joining the effort to restore power to over 10,000 customers in High Point. Seven coworkers departed today with a bucket truck, two line trucks, and a pickup truck and plan to work throughout the weekend and possibly into next week. Concord is member of ElectriCities Emergency Assistance program, which allows NC Public Power agencies to assist communities in need and also receive assistance when necessary. Learn more about Public Power at ncpublicpower.com.
 
Burrage Road detour begins Monday, March 10
The City of Concord is partnering with NCDOT to replace the aging bridge on Burrage Road, with the completed project better accommodating bicyclists and pedestrians. Beginning Monday, March 10, Burrage Road will be closed in the vicinity of the bridge over Three Mile Branch for up to twelve months. A temporary detour will re-route traffic along Lake Concord Road, Branchview Drive, and Bradley Street. Visit concordnc.gov for more information on this project.
 
Affordable rabies vaccinations for dogs and cats Wednesday, March 12
Cabarrus Health Alliance and Cabarrus County Animal Control sponsor affordable rabies vaccination clinics for dogs and cats each month in partnership with Carolina Value Vet. The next opportunity will be Wednesday, March 12 at the Cabarrus Animal Shelter parking lot (244 Betsy Carpenter Place, Concord) from 4:30-6:30 p.m. The affordable $10 fee will in part benefit the Cabarrus County Humane Society. Learn more at cabarrushealth.org.
 
Final week remains to see Concord on Canvas
Thirty-three original paintings remain display along Union Street and Church Street in Downtown Concord. The month-long event concludes on Friday, March 14 at the Hotel Concord for a fun evening of great food, beverage, and bidding on artwork produced by Cabarrus County professional artists and high school student artists. Funds raised support the professional artists, the high school art departments, and the CDDC. Silent auction offered as well, with items from businesses throughout the Concord area. Visit concorddowntown.com for more information, to vote on your favorite student art, and to bid on original artwork.
 
Free Diabetes Alert Day event planned for March 21
The Housing Department joins the Cabarrus Health Alliance's Southeastern Diabetes Initiative to present Diabetes Alert Day on Friday, March 21.  The free event is planned for 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Neighborhood Networks Technology Center (265 Salem Street), and will include Diabetes screenings, exercise and nutrition demonstrations, guest speakers, giveaways, and more. For more information, visit cabarrushealth.org, or contact 704-920-1999 or sedi@cabarrushealth.org to register.
 
Trained CRCHC counselors to assist with health insurance enrollment
The Cabarrus Rowan Community Health Centers have trained counselors available to health insurance registrants complete the hour-long application process before the March 31, 2014 open enrollment deadline. While there will be some exemptions, those who qualify under new Affordable Care Act guidelines but do not take the necessary steps to become insured will be penalized on 2015 tax returns. Working with support from a federal grant, the Cabarrus Rowan Community Health Centers have scheduled enrollment sessions throughout the month of March. The centers operate three clinics in Cabarrus and Rowan Counties. Certified Application Counselors will be available to answer questions and assist with the application process during various days and times. Appointments are encouraged to reduce wait time. Please click here or call 704-792-2274 for more information, or visit crchc.org.
 
Parks and Recreation highlights
Please see the Spring 2014 issue of Leisure Times for a full list of programs offered by the Parks and Recreation Department.
 
Boot camp in the park
This outdoor extreme fitness class incorporates cardio drills, body weight resistance training, and core workouts. Bring bottled water, mat or towel, and a pair of hand weights. Must be 18 years of age; medical clearance required for those over 40 years of age. Meets 5:00-6:00 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from March 10-27. Learn more and register at concordparksandrec.org.
 
Adult softball registration now open
Registration is open for spring adult softball leagues through March 31. The registration fee is $375 per team and men’s open, men’s church, women’s and co-ed leagues are available. All ten regular-season games and the post-season single-elimination tournament are played at WW Flowe or Les Myers Parks. For more information and or to register online, visit concordparksandrec.org.
 
Feel like a kid with adult kickball
Co-ed adult kickball league registration is open through March 31, for just $375 per team. All ten regular-season games and the post-season single-elimination tournament are played at WW Flowe Park. The league will follow WAKA Kickball rules. Learn more and register online at concordparksandrec.org.
 
City of Concord upcoming meetings
Unless otherwise noted, location is second floor of Municipal Building, 26 Union Street, S.
 
March
11 at 4:00 p.m. City Council work session
25 at 6:00 p.m. Board of Adjustment
 
Stay Connected!
Visit the City's website for the latest information and updates at concordnc.gov. Check out our page on Facebook and our other interactive features!
Visit concordnc.gov to learn how you can be sure to receive timely updates from the City via phone, text, or email.

 

03

Concord Weekly Update - February 28, 2014

Posted on March 03, 2014

 

Did you know?
Did you know the City's Customer Care Center has been in service since January of 2000? Effective March 10, the Customer Care Center is changing its hours to 7:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. The adjustment will result in more representatives available to help when customers need them, and shorter wait times. The Care Center is a team of professionals who have the training and ability to help customers resolve most City service questions or issues with the convenience of a phone call to 704-920-5555. After hours or weekend needs can be reported to the same number.
 
Concord advances in NCLM Hometown Showdown
With nearly 300 "likes," Concord's entry of the 2013 Tree Lighting Ceremony and fireworks by local photographer Michael Anderson advanced to the second round of the NC League of Municipalities Hometown Showdown contest! Only 32 of 60 entries across the state made it into the brackets. After the Mountains and Sandhills brackets compete next week, Concord's second round match against Belmont begins Monday March 10. Visit NCLM's Facebook page for more information.
 
March 2-8 is Severe Weather Awareness Week
The City of Concord joins the National Weather Service in promoting North Carolina’s Severe Weather Awareness Week, planned for March 2-8, 2014. The community is asked to Be a Force of Nature and better prepare for severe weather threats in our area. Visit weather.gov to learn how you can know your risk, pledge and take action, and be an example. North Carolina’s annual statewide tornado drill for 2014 will take place on Wednesday, March 5, at 9:30 a.m. Every school, business, work place, and family across the state is strongly encouraged to participate in the statewide tornado drill. More resources for being part of the Weather-Ready Nation are available at noaa.gov.
 
Rider Transit to launch first new hybrid bus Monday morning
After assembly in January, and a cross-country trip and final preparations in February, Rider Transit begins service on its first of eight new buses Monday. Rider's first diesel-electric hybrid bus will leave the Transit Center and serve the Blue route at 5:30 a.m. on March 3. The new bus will rotate along different routes throughout the week. Too see photos of the new buses, including the production process, visit Rider Transit's Facebook page.
 
Burrage Road bridge replacement to begin soon
The City of Concord is partnering with NCDOT to replace the aging bridge on Burrage Road, with the completed project better accommodating bicyclists and pedestrians. Beginning Monday, March 10, Burrage Road will be closed in the vicinity of the bridge over Three Mile Branch for up to twelve months. A temporary detour will re-route traffic along Lake Concord Road, Branchview Drive, and Bradley Street. Visit concordnc.gov for more information on this project.
 
Affordable rabies vaccinations for dogs and cats on March 12
Cabarrus Health Alliance and Cabarrus County Animal Control sponsor affordable rabies vaccination clinics for dogs and cats each month in partnership with Carolina Value Vet. The next opportunity will be Wednesday, March 12 at the Cabarrus Animal Shelter parking lot (244 Betsy Carpenter Place, Concord) from 4:30-6:30 p.m. The affordable $10 fee will in part benefit the Cabarrus County Humane Society. Learn more at cabarrushealth.org.
 
Free Diabetes Alert Day event planned for March 21
The Housing Department joins the Cabarrus Health Alliance's Southeastern Diabetes Initiative to present Diabetes Alert Day on Friday, March 21.  The free event is planned for 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Neighborhood Networks Technology Center (265 Salem Street), and will include Diabetes screenings, exercise and nutrition demonstrations, guest speakers, giveaways, and more. For more information, visit cabarrushealth.org, or contact 704-920-1999 or sedi@cabarrushealth.org to register.
 
Join Neighbor Helping Neighbor program to lend a hand
The City of Concord offers an easy way for you to help those who have trouble paying their utility bills. With the Neighbor Helping Neighbor program, each month you can make a tax-deductible contribution to a fund that will be managed by Cooperative Christian Ministry. CCM provides crisis financial assistance, food, and counseling, and will use these funds to aid City of Concord utility customers with their utility bills. Learn more at concordnc.gov.
 
Just two weeks left to see Concord on Canvas
Thirty-three original paintings remain display along Union Street and Church Street in Downtown Concord. The month-long event concludes on Friday, March 14 at the Hotel Concord for a fun evening of great food, beverage, and bidding on artwork produced by Cabarrus County professional artists and high school student artists. Funds raised support the professional artists, the high school art departments, and the CDDC. Silent auction offered as well, with items from businesses throughout the Concord area. Visit concorddowntown.com for more information, to vote on your favorite student art, and to bid on original artwork.
 
Parks and Recreation highlights
Please see the Spring 2014 issue of Leisure Times for a full list of programs offered by the Parks and Recreation Department.
 
Adult softball registration now open
Registration is open for spring adult softball leagues through March 31. The registration fee is $375 per team and men’s open, men’s church, women’s and co-ed leagues are available. All ten regular-season games and the post-season single-elimination tournament are played at WW Flowe or Les Myers Parks. For more information and or to register online, visit concordparksandrec.org.
 
Feel like a kid with adult kickball
Co-ed adult kickball league registration is open through March 31, for just $375 per team. All ten regular-season games and the post-season single-elimination tournament are played at WW Flowe Park. The league will follow WAKA Kickball rules. Learn more and register online at concordparksandrec.org.
 
Lake Fisher Reservoir opens soon
Seasonal recreation activities will begin at Lake Fisher on Wednesday March 5. Lake Fisher is open Wednesdays through Saturdays from 7:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. and Sundays 1:00 until 6:00 p.m. For information about boat rental, fees, and fishing rules please visit concordparksandrec.org. 
 
10 and Under Tennis
Formally known as Quick Start Tennis, this program is an exciting new play format for learning tennis, designed to introduce the game with specialized equipment, shorter court dimensions, and modified scoring all tailored to age and size.  Group lessons for ages 5 – 10.  Saturdays, March 1, 8, 15, and 22 at Les Myers Park.  Fee: $20 for City residents; $25 for non-residents.  Registration is available online at concordparksandrec.org or at the Academy Recreation Center.
 
Summer programs for youth now registering
Registration for Camp GoneAlot (ages 11-13) and Summer Playground (ages 6-10) is available at concordparksandrec.org or at the Academy Recreation Center. The 8-week day programs operate from June 23 through August 15 (closed on July 4). A $100 deposit is due with registration.  Fee: $350 for City residents; $450 for non-residents.
 
City of Concord upcoming meetings
Unless otherwise noted, location is second floor of Municipal Building, 26 Union Street, S.
 
March
11 at 4:00 p.m. City Council work session
25 at 6:00 p.m. Board of Adjustment
 
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