Readers helped compile today's Friday Five, and there is plenty to report.
No. 1
Sheetz is scouting locations in Cabarrus County, with traffic studies and plan reviews underway at three sites in Concord.
Last fall, company representatives were looking at the former Sun Drop Bottling property at Branchview Drive and Old Salisbury Road (360 Old Salisbury Road). Plans call for a 6,140-square-foot Sheetz convenience store, a 7,370-square-foot auto parts store and a 1,835-square-foot quick lube building.
Sheetz is also considering 4610 Davidson Highway, a property owned by Propst Distributing. That store would total 6,130 square feet.
The third site is at Weddington Road and George Liles Parkway — diagonally across from the Publix-anchored Willow Oaks shopping center. Crews have been working there for the past couple of weeks.
Maybe this makes me a tree hugger, but there's a persimmon tree along Weddington Road in front of the property. I've named him Percival. I'm not optimistic about Percival's future once construction ramps up.
Beyond the landscaping concerns, the bigger story may be at the pump.
One reader pointed out this could spark a pricing battle with QuikTrip (QT) and other convenience stores. When QT entered this market, it aggressively cut gas prices to build market share — at times selling fuel below cost.Competitors reported steep losses, with at least one major operator seeing a seven-figure drop in sales.
Cabarrus County would become the only market in the country with both Sheetz and QT competing head-to-head. If history is any guide, that rivalry could mean lower gas prices for consumers.
No. 2
Fried chicken fans may soon have another option near Concord Mills. Raising Cane's, the Louisiana-based chain known for its chicken tenders and signature Cane's sauce, is planning to open in the former TGI Friday's building at 8041 Concord Mills Blvd., according to site activity at the property.
Construction fencing went up around the building this week, signaling redevelopment of the long-vacant restaurant space in front of Concord Mills mall.
A few months ago, we were told The Hibachi Pit was considering the location, but those plans have changed. Raising Cane's appears close to finalizing the site.
The new restaurant would total 3,352 square feet. An opening timetable has not yet been announced.
Founded in 1996 in Louisiana, Raising Cane's has expanded rapidly across the country with a simple menu focused primarily on chicken tenders, crinkle-cut fries, Texas toast and coleslaw.
I've eaten at Raising Cane's a few times while traveling with the Charlotte 49ers women's basketball team, and the streamlined menu and quick service have helped build a loyal following. There are more than 800 locations.
Meanwhile, next door, Shake Shack has opened in the former Denny's location — another sign of continued restaurant growth in the Concord Mills area.
No. 3
Dr. Frank Pancotto was recently honored by the American Board of Internal Medicine for maintaining his board certification for more than 30 years — a testament to his long-standing commitment to excellence in patient care.
Even in retirement, Dr. Pancotto continues to serve others as an active volunteer with the Community Free Clinic.
Some people simply brighten your day the moment you see them. Frank is one of those people.
When he's not caring for patients at the clinic, he's likely out on a run or baking pizza for his grandchildren and family. I only wish I could run as fast as "Pop Pop" — and judging by appearances, his pizza might be worth training for.
No. 4
Eliminating Litter in Kannapolis (ELK) is ramping up its cleanup efforts for the year.
The volunteer group will hold its first cleanup of 2026 along its adopted street, West Eighth Street, on Saturday, March 21, from 10 a.m. to noon.
"We hope everyone enjoyed the winter break, and we're excited to get back out there," said ELK organizer Rita Bliven.
Community volunteers are welcome to participate.
ELK's mission is also inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards. A.L. Brown High School student Matias Guerra, an ELK volunteer, has launched his own effort with the Clean Kannapolis Initiative. Guerra and fellow volunteers have spent the week removing litter along Kannapolis Parkway.
No. 5
Eddie Bauer is leaving Concord Mills Mall. The going-out-of-business sale is in progress.
The retail clothing chain is in its third bankruptcy. The 174 stores are closing, and a real estate company is trying to market the Eddie Bauer leases.
If you have a Friday Five, story suggestion, or something I can rant about, email mplemmons@independenttribune.com or call or text 704-786-0001.
