Our network

CMS Police Chief retires while on administrative leave, officials say

CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV)- Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Police Chief Bud Cesena has chosen to retire while on administrative leave, effective immediately.

The former Chief was placed on administrative leave Wednesday, pending an internal investigation, a CMS spokesperson told WBTV Thursday.

Cesena, who has held the title of CMS Police Chief since late 2006, was put on leave as the result of a personnel matter. Officials told WBTV that school policy prevents them from discussing the matter publicly.

Deputy Chief Randy Hagler was appointed Interim Police Chief during Cesena's leave, CMS said.

Copyright 2013 WBTV. All rights reserved.

Community Sponsors

Charlotte ranks in Top 25 Mom-Friendly Dining Cities

Charlotte ranks in Top 25 Mom-Friendly Dining Cities

CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV)- Charlotte ranks in the top 10 of Mom-friendly dining cities, according to a new ranking by OpenTable.

The online restaurant reservation company compiled the list ahead of Mother's Day: Top 25 Mom-Friendly Dining Cities in the U.S.

"Whether it's a meal with the kids in tow, a romantic dinner with a spouse, or a night out with the girls, each of these cities has a diverse dining scene to satisfy mom's appetite for food and fun," said Caroline Potter, Chief Dining Officer of OpenTable.  "And, it's very clear from the number of folks dining out locally on Mother's Day that area restaurants have mastered the art of pampering mothers and pleasing their palates."
 

Gridiron mom gives back to the community

CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV)- Mother's Day is this weekend. It's a time we celebrate mothers not just for their love and nurturing, but their selfless acts and their ability to give to others.

One local celebrity mom takes on vital issues and still finds time to balance the most difficult job of all: parenting.

When you first meet Kelly Davis, you feel as if you've known her for year.

This NFL wife is energetic, bold, and warm. Kelly is the wife of Carolina linebacker Thomas Davis. 

More than a football wife, Kelly achieved a success story of her own.

"I'm going to do something in my community if I have the free time," said Kelly. 

"I feel like I can just sit around and not help. That's what I'm supposed to be doing."

Her giving back starts at home.

"She'll substitute for our class," says Kelly's older daughter Skyye.

52 Weeks of Giving

52 Weeks of Giving

For select nonprofit charities, it will be like Christmas, whether it comes in May, August, or December.

Yard Sale to benefit the homeless

Yard Sale to benefit the homeless

The Community Housing Resource Center is holding a fundraising Yard Sale this weekend.

Yard Sale for a Cause is raising money by selling gently used and new clothes, household items, and furniture, among other things.

Hungry patrons can also purchase chicken and fish dinners offered by the Center.

All proceeds go to the Community Housing Resource Center, a nonprofit organization that provides emergency, temporary, and permanent housing for working homeless families and low-moderate income families.

Bargain hunters can shop to their delight in the parking lot at 5501 Executive Center Drive in Charlotte, Saturday May 11, beginning at 8 a.m.

For more information on the Yard Sale, call 704-763-2897.

"I'm at peace" says fired Meck County Mgr Harry Jones

Former County Manager Harry Jones

CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV)- The Mecklenburg County Commissioners fired County Manager Harry Jones during a meeting Tuesday night.

In an interview with WBTV, Jones says "I've used the word I'm at peace and I really am – I use the word relief."

Jones say he knew he was the cause of factions on the county commission board. He says he and his attorney were trying to negotiate a new deal with commissioners. But then Tuesday night happened.

"It really doesn't matter what is behind it" says Jones. "It could be a variety of things that are behind it. It really doesn't matter because I serve at pleasure of the board."

But Jones admits he "was a little blind sided by what happened on Tuesday."

At the meeting, the commissioners did not give a reason for Jones' sudden firing.

WBTV has learned the botched revaluation is one reason Jones lost his job.

Is he angry?

Changing overtime pay for some workers?

Changing overtime pay for some workers?

CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV)- There could be a new way to pay employees who work for the private sector.  Members of the House have passed a bill to change overtime pay.  The law would give employees the option to either get overtime pay or comp time.

Republican Congressman Robert Pittenger favors the bill and thinks this will empower families to take time off when needed - time that will best fit their schedule. 

"You may have young kids at home," Pittenger said. "Or go to a soccer game and you may need to go to the dentist or you have aging parents. This is a good bill for hard working American families. It gives those choices back to the families and employees."

While Pittenger thinks this will help families, some hourly workers are not so sure.