CHARLOTTE – A pair of rezoning applications with no site plans in the Cotswold area prompted a policy discussion among Charlotte City Council over the potential of developers splitting lots in neighborhoods and doubling down on density.
District 5 rep Marjorie Molina explained that she supported rezoning half-acre lots in petitions 2024-134 and 2024-136 from Neighborhood 1-A uses to Neighborhood 1-C, which sta said represented a “slight increase in intensity.” Molina explained that there was no opposition from her constituents and precedent for such a change was already set on that street.
However, Molina had concerns. She said under current zoning, someone could develop a duplex on a lot. But under certain conditions, a developer could also split the lot into two and put a duplex on each piece.
“As we make those types of decisions on an individual basis, the one thing that has to be intact is we have to make sure we do our due diligence as leaders to reach out to the community,” she said, “to at least, at minimum, let them know that this is coming, inform them of what the potential changes could be to their neighborhood and their stake in this, and nd out what their feedback is.”
By Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com
CHARLOTTE – South Charlotte
resident Tariq Bokari took the oath of office April 21 to serve as deputy administrator for the Federal Transit Administration.
She encouraged people to pay attention when they see a yellow rezoning sign pop up in their neighborhood and even call the city to ask what it means.
At-Large rep LaWana May eld also expressed a concern about rezoning requests that split lots, particularly in historic communities. While a precedent may be set, the council may learn a lesson with how a change impacts a community.
“I’ve been here since 1988, so I’ve seen a lot of changes myself with how communities are being built, how communities are being developed,” May eld said. “At the end of the day, it’s our policy language that is opening the door for it to happen.”
District 4 rep Renee Johnson said she wouldn’t be supporting this petition because of the precedent it sets. She acknowledged that 117 people are moving to Charlotte each day but the council still has to look out for current residents and their quality of life.
Johnson said the council wants to see developers adding to the quality of life and the council has to be careful approving petitions that reduce quality of life or displace residents.
Ballantyne-area rep Ed Driggs recognized that the council is trying to pursue goals like creating housing in order to slow down the rising cost.
“ at means that we have to contend with disruption and the fact is in my district there have been developments that took place
Bokhari resigned from the Charlotte City Council, e ective April 20, to begin in his new role.
”It was an honor to be sworn in this morning, and a whirlwind rest of the day learning about $1.2T of assets, 7B annual trips, and 430k transit workers that fall in the scope of the FTA,” Bokhari shared on Facebook. “Let’s get to work.”
Bokhari on more than one occasion approached council discussions about transportation with a forward-thinking perspective.
In 2022, the FinTech executive suggested Charlotte look at transportation through a technology lens, pointing to the 4G mobile network giving rise to rideshare programs as a major turning point. He also believed Charlotte needed to put a priority on the role roads play and create a vision that unlocks federal and state funding.
Also in 2022, Bokhari called for “disruptive innovation” when it came to solving gridlock along the Providence Road corridor. He even reached out to Elon Musk’s “Boring Company” for insight into how tunnel underpasses could move people through busy intersections.
Bokhari succeeded Kenny Smith as
CHARLOTTE – SouthPark Community Partners is among more than a dozen community organizations to win Placemaking Grants from the City of Charlotte.
e grant program, which is managed by the City of Charlotte’s Urban Design Center, awarded $230,000 to support projects that foster community energy, safety and character.
Adam Rhew, of SouthPark Community Partners, secured $25,000 speci cally for the Cameron Valley Pocket Park.
e pop-up park is one of seven projects around SouthPark Regional Library that have been identi ed in the organization’s SouthPark Forward 2035 Vision Plan.
“A half-acre green space can be enhanced with furniture, landscaping and public art to create a new place for employees and visitors to enjoy the outdoors,” according to the plan.
District 6 representative in late 2017. Like Smith, he showed a willingness to work with neighborhoods to achieve the best outcomes for rezoning projects in the south Charlotte area. He often credited developers and neighbors with good faith dialogue during the rezoning process.
Bokhari also made headlines for his staunch support of law enforcement, opposition of the Charlotte 2040 Plan and some heated exchanges with colleagues. He and Ed Driggs were the only Republicans on the council during his tenure.
SouthPark project to get boost from Placemaking Grants
Other winning projects included:
• Joi Mayo, of Transforming Nations Ford, won $12,400 for Art4Ward: Nations Ford Beauti cation (mural).
• Michael Zytkow, of Potions and Pixels, won $12,500 for Community ArtCade (popup art).
• Kristen Ford, of NoDa Neighborhood Business Association, won $9,800 for Cross Charlotte Trail Mural (street mural).
• Shika Raynor, of Prosperity Village Area Association, won $16,000 for Events at e Green at Prosperity Village (programming and events).
• Myra Johnston, of Lakeview at Faires Farm HOA, won $5,000 for Faires Farm Revitalization Technical Assistance (technical assistance).
and people didn’t like the changes that were occurring around them,” Driggs said. “ e question is not can we achieve what we want to do without any disturbance to anybody. e question is how do we minimize the disturbing with the idea that we go back and take another look or we learn from this experience and then we ask ourselves questions about our policies.”
Bokhari leaves city council for FTA
Split decision: Council concerned about doubling density Entrepreneur inducted into NC Media Hall of Fame
Driggs said Molina did the right thing by looking at the context of these rezonings within the existing policies. He cautioned colleagues from making policy decisions on the y during zoning discussions. After all, they were discussing zoning, not policy. May eld pushed back, asking if not now, when does the council exercise its ability to change the policy. e council voted 6-3 to approve both of the Cotswold petitions.
Mayor Vi Lyles acknowledged Bokhari’s resignation at the beginning of the April 14 city council meeting.
“ ank you for your dedication and service for the past seven and a half years, not only for the district but to all of our city,” Lyles told Bokhari before giving him an opportunity to address his departure.
“It has been the honor of a lifetime,” Bokhari told colleagues. “I will continue to do everything I can to support Charlotte and the city we all love and support you all and everything that you’re working on.”
• Olivia Chisholm, of To Live in Color, won $8,000 for Giving Us Our Flowers (bus stop beauti cation).
• Megan Annitto, of Plaza Midwood Neighborhood Association, won $19,700 for Joy in the Shadows, Fulton Avenue Streetscape (street mural and sculpture).
• Logan Phillips, of Villa Heights Neighborhood Association, won $15,000 for Pinckney-to-27th Passage (pedestrian pathway).
• GeAndra Imoudu, of STEM Skool, won $14,100 for STEM Skool Learning Garden (community agriculture).
CHARLOTTE – Charlotte entrepreneur LaToya Evans has been inducted into the North Carolina Media and Journalism Hall of Fame.
Evans, founder of the LEPR Agency, was honored April 11 at the Carolina Inn in Chapel Hill alongside ve other inductees, including Rich Beckman, Allen Bosworth, Woody Durham (posthumously), Kit Hoover and Robyn Tomlin.
“I am so grateful and honored to be inducted into the Hall of Fame,” Evans said. “ is has been a lifetime goal, and I can’t believe it’s happening. To be honored at my alma mater, in my state, it’s extra special.”
Prior to creating the LEPR Agency, Evans served in key corporate communications, public relations and crisis communications roles at companies including IBM, Walmart, Bank of America, Compass Group and Cisco Systems.
Prior to her corporate roles in communications, Evans also ran a freelance writing business, working often for Glamour and People magazines.
Evans founded the LEPR Agency in 2017, with it becoming an international, Edelman-a liated strategic public relations, crisis communications and advertising rm based in Charlotte.
Notable clients of the LEPR Agency include the family of George Floyd and Attorney Ben Crump; Pastor John Gray; the late Miss USA Cheslie Kryst; presidential candidates Joe Biden, Andrew Yang and Mayor Michael Bloomberg; Abyssinian Baptist Church, Actor J. Harrison Ghee and corporations including Twitter, Coca Cola, Fifth ird Bank, Suntory Global Spirits and James B. Beam Distilling Co., and Dentsply Sirona. Evans was inducted in the PRWeek Women’s Hall of Fame in 2021 for her achievements.
Black Enterprise also announced the LEPR Agency became a seven-figure business and was considered one of the largest, independent Black-owned public relations agencies in the U.S. and the largest owned by a Black woman.
This page from the SouthPark Forward 2023 Vision Plan shows the Cameron Valley Pocket Park and other projects around SouthPark Regional Library. Photo courtesy of SouthPark Community Partners
Tariq Bokhari speaks during the groundbreaking of the former Eastland Mall site to help bring commercial amenities, jobs and housing to east Charlotte. David Flower/City of Charlotte
District 5 Council Member Marjorie Molina celebrates the ribbon cutting for Evoke Living at Eastland Yards in November 2024. She called it a “symbol of Eastland's bright future and our efforts to enhance east Charlotte." David Flower/City of Charlotte
STAY CONNECTED
• Facebook, Twitter and Instagram: @mmhweekly. @ucweekly, @southcltweekly, @weekly waxhaw and @itncweekly
CONTACT US
PUBLISHER
Adrian Garson adrian@cmgweekly.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Justin Vick
justin@cmgweekly.com
ADVERTISING
Charlotte Conway charlotte@cmgweekly.com
NEWSLETTER
Subscribe to our free email newsletter to stay on top of everything we are publishing in print and online, as well as what we’re sharing across our social media platforms. Visit one of our websites for a link to subscribe.
Charlotte FC tops the Eastern Conference table
With a 3-0 win over an impressive San Diego side, Charlotte FC secures eight straight regular season home win.
By Yara Al Bayyari, Jorge Torres and Jake Sokol Contributor
(SOCCER SHEET) – A dominant three-goal performance has Charlotte FC atop the Eastern Conference table again – and within one point of Supporters’ Shield leaders Vancouver Whitecaps.
Charlotte FC delivered one of their most cohesive performances of the season, with ve di erent players contributing directly to the team’s goals.
“I’m proud of the team’s resilience and the way we controlled the game,” said Charlotte FC head coach Dean Smith at a post-match press conference. “Every player gave their all tonight, and it was a complete performance.”
Liel Abada opened the scoring in the 11th minute, capitalizing on the Crown’s early dominance and a brilliant pass through tra c by Pep Biel, who now has nine goal contributions on the season and leads MLS with six assists.
In the 39th minute, Charlotte earned a penalty, thanks to Patrick Agyemang who converted the opportunity his rst penalty goal in MLS league play.
BUSINESS BRIEFS
South Piedmont sponsors job fair
MONROE – South Piedmont Community College is sponsoring the Union County Job Fair. e event will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 29 at Union County Agricultural & Conference Center, 3230-D Presson Road.
Attendees will get to meet with dozens of employers as well as distribute their resumes, explore career opportunities and network with fellow job-seekers. Attendees will also be able to learn about South Piedmont’s opportunities.
Dozens of employers will be on site to meet with attendees, including ATI Specialty Materials, Atrium Health EVS, Autumn Care of Marshville, Berry Global, Edwards Wood Products, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, Greiner Bio One, Harris Teeter Distribution Center, ICON Aerospace, McGee Corporation, Pruitt Health, StaffMark and State
Employees’ Credit Union. e job fair is presented in partnership with Centralina Workforce Development Board, NC Works, Union County Chamber of Commerce and Union County Public Schools.
Email Kristie Phifer at kphifer@spcc.edu for details.
Hopebridge reflects on 20 years of autism care INDIANAPOLIS – In addition to celebrating 20 years of service in 2025, Hopebridge Autism erapy Centers is observing World Autism Month in April.
Hopebridge provides educational opportunities, hosting and sponsoring inclusive community events and empowering others to become advocates.
Autism, a developmental condition that a ects communication, behavior and social interaction, represents a lifelong journey that presents unique opportunities and challenges for individuals, families and communities.
“Caregivers can look for
Agyemang’s impact extended beyond the scoresheet. He drew two important yellow cards from Andrés Reyes, forcing San Diego FC to play with 10 men and unraveling their defense. Reyes’ dismissal disrupted San Diego’s rhythm and gave Charlotte more room to dictate tempo. In the 57th minute, Charlotte put the game away with a clinical set-piece. Ashley Westwood delivered a perfect ball into the box o a free kick, and Andrew Privett rose to meet it with a header, scoring Charlotte’s third. e goal was a textbook execution of a designed play and a reward for consistent pressure.
While Privett’s goal was the icing on the cake of a 3-0 win, it had special meaning as the center back’s rst-ever MLS goal.
“[It was a] long time coming for sure, so it’s good to nally get one,” Privett told reporters after the match. “We got the foul and [Charlotte FC captain Ashley Westwood] went over and told me he's just going to rip it across the front of the goal and to run across and just I just went on that near post and just put my face to the wall and get a head on it, so all it needed was a touch.”
Privett’s last goal was in 2022 -
early signs like lack of eye contact, delayed or regressed speech, or stimming such as hand flapping or repetitive rocking,” said Ruth Bernstein, Hopebridge licensed clinical psychologist. “If you notice these habits, you should talk to your pediatrician and seek an autism screening as early as 18 months old.”
On the web: https://hopel. ink/WAMevents
Advocate Health names division president CHARLOTTE – Advocate Health has named Steve Smoot as North Carolina and Georgia division president, e ective June 2.
Smoot replaces Ken Haynes who was recently named executive vice president and chief enterprise services o cer for Advocate Health.
Smoot has more than 25 years of health care leadership experience, having most recently served as chief operating o cer for SSM Health, which operates 23 hospitals
for Penn State. It was the same year where he had a goal contribution against Patrick Agyemang’s Rhode Island side, and back when the MLS defender was still playing as a collegiate mid elder.
Soccer Sheet Staff’s Man of the Match Picks
Rebekah: Ashley Westwood
Ashley gets my vote for Man of the Match for his goal contribution and successful execution of a set piece - something Charlotte FC has struggled with for almost four years now. Andrew Privett told the press that the Captain explained the play in detail, which made it easier for Privett to get this rst-ever MLS goal.
Sam: Patrick Agyemang
He drew two yellow cards that added up to a red, and converted his rst penalty for the club. If he did that every match he’d be the MVP.
Yara: Pep Biel
While Charlotte’s goals came from Abada, Agyemang, and Privett, it was Pep Biel who orchestrated the match from the mid eld with exceptional composure, vision, and technical skill. Biel was instrumental
and more than 300 physician o ces. Prior to joining SSM Health, he was associate chief operating o cer at Intermountain Healthcare, where he oversaw 23 hospitals.
“Beyond his resume, Steve shares our values and will help us deliver on our purpose: to redefine care for all,” Advocate Health CEO Eugene Woods said.
Spavia Day Spa expands in Carolinas
CHARLOTTE – Spavia Day Spa announced a threeunit franchise agreement with Eric and Cindy Kendall.
Longtime Spavia guests, the Kendalls were inspired by their own experiences and are now embarking on business ownership to bring the brand’s resort-inspired amenities closer to home in Fort Mill.
Spavia Day Spa o ers innovative, personalized wellness options, including facials, tension-relief massages and detoxifying body wraps, waxing and lash extensions. In addition to treatments, each location includes a spa boutique, which provides a wide range of retail o erings.
Charlotte Area Chamber events
CHARLOTTE – The Charlotte Area Chamber of Commerce will host a public policy meeting and a Connect After 5 event.
• Bryan Holladay, of CLT Public Relations, and Tariq Bokhari, of Charlotte City Council, talk about public safety during the chamber’s public policy committee from 5 to 6:30 p.m. April 29 at Envision Charlotte, 932 Seigle Ave., Charlotte. Register in advance.
• Members network during the Connect After 5 event from 5 to 7 p.m. May 1 at Mercedes-Benz of South Charlotte, 950 N. Polk St., Pineville. Register in advance. Members get in free. Others pay $25. 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 its
in linking defense to attack, completing 87% of his passes, maintaining tempo, and constantly drawing defenders out of position.
Whether it was switching play, advancing the ball in transition, or pressing San Diego’s backline, Biel showcased why he’s become such a vital piece of Charlotte’s mid eld engine this season. A performance full of intelligence and maturity Biel was everywhere tonight.
(Biel was also the club’s choice for Man of the Match)
Coming up next …
Charlotte FC will take to its home pitch once again when they face the New England Revolution on April 26, hoping to extend their winning streak and solidify their dominance atop the Eastern Conference.
Hora Feliz networking event.
• Members connect during Hora Feliz Networking After Hours from 6 to 8 p.m. April 29 at PiNS Mechanical, 307 W. Tremont Ave., Charlotte. Register in advance. Members get in free. 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 host Matthews Area Momentum and Business After Hours.
• The chamber holds a Business After Hours during the second annual Fine Art Show from 5 to 7 p.m. April 25 at the Historic Reid House, 134 W. John St., Matthews. Register in advance.
• The chamber brings together community leaders to talk about growth and innovation during Matthews Area Momentum from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. April 28 at Matthews Sportsplex, 1505 Tank Town Road, Matthews. Register in advance. Visit matthewschamber. org to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Mint Hill Chamber events
MINT HILL – The Mint Hill Chamber of Commerce will o er a Co ee Connections and New Member Orientation.
• Members meet up during Co ee Connections from 8 to 9 a.m. May 2 at Chick- l-A Mint Hill, 7404 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill. Register in advance.
• New members learn about the perks of membership during New Member Orientation from 9 to 11 a.m. May 8 at the Mint Hill Chamber of Commerce, 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 – The Pineville NC Chamber of
Commerce members have an opportunity to engage in an Executive Leadership Academy.
• Leadership coach Jeff Miller is offering a 90day Executive Leadership Academy to chamber members, beginning with an in-person session from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. May 7 at Hilton Garden Inn, 425 Towne Centre Blvd., 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 holds a job fair and ribbon cuttings in the coming days.
• The chamber partners with other organizations to present the Union County Job Fair from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 29 at Union County Agricultural & Conference Center, 3230-D Presson Road, Monroe.
• Members celebrate the relocation of Union County Crisis Assistance Ministry with a ribbon cutting from 1 to 1:30 p.m. April 29 at 216 N. Hayne St., Monroe. Register in advance.
• Members celebrate the grand opening of A Place to Grow – Three Rivers, Wingate with a ribbon cutting from 11:30 a.m. to noon May 1 at 3620 U.S. 74, Wingate. Register in advance. Visit unioncountycoc. com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Waxhaw Business Association events
WAXHAW – e 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.
Quick Hits • The Center for Community Transitions is searching for its next executive director. e nonpro t helps people with criminal records rebuild their lives.
NEWS BRIEFS
CMS names Teacher of the Year
finalists
CHARLOTTE – Four teachers in the south Charlotte area are among 11 nalists for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Teacher of the Year.
• Angela Noonan is an Extensions teacher at Pinewood Elementary School.
• Cathi Schulte is a multilingual teacher for third and fth grades at Endhaven Elementary School.
• Holly Shelton teaches health and physical education at Quail Hollow Middle School.
5 familiar names among top teacher assistants
CHARLOTTE – CharlotteMecklenburg Schools has named 11 nalists for Teacher Assistant of the Year and the list includes ve from south Charlotte-area schools.
Finalists include:
• Rosa Elvira Coker is a K-3 teacher assistant at Sterling Elementary School.
• Jodi Holnagel is a 6-8 Extensions teacher assistant at Jay M. Robinson Middle School.
• Tangania Moffett is an Exceptional Children teacher assistant at Myers Park High School.
• Freddie Pinkney is an Exceptional Children teacher assistant at Ardrey Kell High School.
• Antawan Smith is an Exceptional Children teacher assistant at Alexander Graham Middle School.
Beginning teachers making waves
CHARLOTTE - Employees from Jay
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Stallings
Author Talk Jonathan Heaslet talks about his new book “East on Apple Glen” at Park Road Books. parkroadbooks.com
School (A Cappella and Choir), Legacy Theater and Music Company, and School of Rock. minthillevents.org 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; 8850 Fairview Road, Mint Hill Book Signing Johnnie Moultrie signs copies of his picture books, “The Adventures of Alex & Gabbie” at Park Road Books. parkroadbooks.com 10:30 a.m.-noon; 4139 Park Road, Charlotte The Spring Spectacle The Town of Stallings is injecting an alien theme into its Spring Spectacle. Stallings Municipal Park will transform into Area 50, where children can engage in space-theme activities, crafts and games – maybe even extraterrestrials. The town is partnering with Monroe Science Center and The Schiele Museum of Natural History as well as hosting food vendors like Boss Lady Lemonade, Hungry Howie’s Pizza and Sauce Southern Smoke. stallingsnc.org Noon-4 p.m.; 340 Stallings Road,
M. Robinson Middle School and Selwyn Elementary School are in the running for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Beginning Teacher of the Year.
Among the 11 nalists are:
• Deirdre Augustine teaches seventh-graders at Jay M. Robinson Middle School.
• Sarah Desmond teaches fifth-graders at Selwyn Elementary School.
Quick Hits
• Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools named Patricia Parrish (Ballantyne Ridge High School) and Lisa Newburger (South Charlotte Middle School) as nalists for Outstanding Media Coordinator of the Year.
• Promenade on Providence is planning its annual Music on the Green series for the summer. The shopping center has not announced musical acts but is planning for the event to run Fridays and Saturdays, June 6 to Aug. 2.
• The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department celebrated National Public Safety Telecommunications Week, noting how its team elded 1 million calls for service last year.
• The Pineville Police Department logged 33 arrests, 174 traffic stops, 209 reports, 767 calls for service and 1,768 officer initiated activities during March.
• Pineville Neighbors Place presented awards to Mark and Debbie Gafney (Jane Shutt Legacy Award), Atrium Health Pineville (Chairman’s Award) and Mary Jo Patterson (Board Emeritus Award).
• The Charlotte Regional Transportation Planning Organization canceled the April 23 board meeting. The next meeting will be held May 21. crtpo.org.
2-2:30 p.m.; 4139 Park Road, Charlotte
April 27
Poetry Reading Chris Arvidson talks about her new book of poetry, “Nobody Cares What You Think,” at Park Road Books. parkroadbooks.com 2-3 p.m.; 4139 Park Road, Charlotte
April 30
Author Talk Malcolm
May
I’m not stubborn, I’m ‘undeterred’
By Tony Marciano Contributor
I’m part of a volunteer group that ensures recreational boating safety. I needed to have a form processed but was experiencing problems. I pressed but had no success. I was unwilling to back down. At one point, I got short with the person who was trying to help me. I told her to look at the form. When I looked at it, I realized it was corrupted and couldn’t be processed. I ate some humble pie, lled out the new form she sent me and submitted it. A day later, I sent her an apology email for behaving so poorly. I wore stubbornness as a badge of honor. If something got in my way, I was not backing down. No longer do I call myself stubborn. Rather, I call myself “undeterred.” I press forward when the challenges of life occur while being kind in the process. I get so focused on what I am trying to accomplish that I miss what is right in front of me.
In a few days, Christians will celebrate Easter. We believe that Jesus rose from the dead. ere is much historical, medical and scienti c evidence for his resurrection. For years, I stubbornly hung my faith on that. Today, I look back over 28 years of watching God “Show Up” while I served as presi -
dent/CEO of Charlotte Rescue Mission. Let me tell you some stories.
I arrived in July 1996. Two months later, we were out of cash. I couldn’t meet payroll. I asked God for a check of $50,000 to arrive that day. Later that same day, we received a check for $30,000. The donor planned to leave us the money in her will. Her son told her we needed the money right now.
In 2006, we attempted to purchase 11 acres to expand our women’s division. e seller wanted quite a bit of money. e board chair negotiated a lower price that included signi cant seller nancing. A week later we received a bequest from an estate, allowing us to offer a cash purchase for the land at a still lower price. The seller agreed and we purchased the property. We were having problems securing a lead gift to launch the capital campaign to expand our women’s division. A board member called me the day of a board meeting, asking if he could bring a check for $500,000 that was half of the donor’s commitment. We were on our way. at is until eight months later when the Great Recession began. The campaign reached $4.9 million. I asked God for $6 million by Dec. 31, not telling anyone else. A foun-
dation increased their pledge bringing us to $5.3 million. Early December, a corporation gave us a gift of $700,000 taking us to $6 million. Gifts are given in denominations of $750,000, not $700,000. During construction of our men’s facility, our general contractor couldn’t get a certain piece of equipment. I wrote a snail mail letter to the manufacturer’s CEO but received no response. I ran into some people who had her email address. I wrote to her. She responded and the equipment arrived early. Why would a CEO respond to my email request?
This same capital campaign’s goal was for $40 million. We were at $37.5 million. I spoke with someone, mentioning I was looking for a $4 million naming rights donor. I assumed he was only capable of a five-digit gift. He made a $4 million gift. e new building was named in honor of his grandfather who was a founding Board member. Yes, there is evidence for the resurrection of Jesus. I also experienced “God showing up” in my career in ways I can’t explain. I’ll be back soon. Until then, live well my friend.
The Rev. Tony Marciano is available to speak to your group. DM him on Facebook.
Living with a Bleeding Disorder
FAMILY FEATURES
Many people don’t think much about whether their blood is clotting properly. However, when you have a bleeding disorder, a condition that affects the way your body controls clots, it’s no small matter.
According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), part of the National Institutes of Health, abnormal clotting can lead to a host of problems, including excessive bleeding after an injury or during surgery.
About 3 million people in the U.S. have bleeding disorders. Some types, such as hemophilia, are inherited, meaning a person who has it is born with it. Inherited bleeding disorders are caused by certain genes passed down from parents to children. These genes contain instructions for how to make proteins in the blood called clotting factors, which help blood clot. If there is a problem with one of these genes, such as a mutation – a change in the gene’s instructions – the body may make a clotting factor incorrectly or not make it at all.
You can also have what’s called an acquired bleeding disorder, meaning you develop it during your lifetime. Acquired bleeding disorders can be caused by medical conditions, medicines or something unknown. Your risk of developing a bleeding disorder depends on your age, family history, genes, sex or other medical conditions. If bleeding disorders run in your family, you may have a higher risk of developing or inheriting one. Symptoms of a bleeding disorder may appear soon after birth or develop later in life and can include:
n Excessive bleeding or bruising, such as frequent or long nose bleeds (longer than 15 minutes) or frequent or long menstrual periods
n Petechiae, which are tiny purple, red or brown spots caused by bleeding under the skin
n Redness, swelling, stiffness or pain from bleeding into muscles or joints
n Blood in urine or stool
n Excessive umbilical stump bleeding
n Excessive bleeding during surgery or after trauma
If you believe you, or someone you care for, may have a bleeding disorder, talk to a health care provider. Your provider may make a diagnosis based on symptoms, risk factors, family history, a physical exam and diagnostic tests. Health care providers typically screen for bleeding disorders only if you have known risk factors or before certain surgeries.
How your bleeding disorder is treated depends on its type. If your disorder causes few or no symptoms, you may not need treatment. If you have symptoms, you may need daily treatment to prevent bleeding episodes or you may need it only on certain occasions, such as when you have an accident or before a planned surgery.
If you have been diagnosed with a bleeding disorder, it’s important to be proactive about your health and follow your treatment plan. To lower your risk of complications:
n Receive follow-up care
n Monitor your condition
n Adopt healthy lifestyle changes
To learn more about bleeding
Fresh Fish Hot Off the Grates
FAMILY FEATURES
Whether you’re a seasoned grilling expert or new to backyard barbecuing, expanding your menu with seafood offers a fun, flavorful way to bring life to outdoor entertaining.
Grilling fish is different than traditional fare like burgers and steaks, however. One method capturing the attention of chefs and amateur barbecue enthusiasts alike is electric grilling. With technology innovations that enable higher heat and more precise control, along with easy-to-use, guided cooking delivered via smartphone apps, grilling seafood can be simpler than ever. Master the art of grilled seafood with these tips from Trimell Hawkins, executive chef and culinary adviser to Current Backyard.
Not all fish are the same. There’s a common misconception that all fish can be grilled, but not all fish is created equally. Avoid flaky fish (like trout) and instead turn to a firm fish when grilling, such as branzini in this Grilled Whole Branzini with Fresh Herb Sauce recipe from celebrity chef Alton Brown. Moisture is not your friend. While you’re likely aiming for a fresh, moist flavor when eating fish, that doesn’t mean it should be wet when it goes on the grill. For beautiful, crisp skin and grill marks, pat fish dry to absorb the moisture before grilling. Temperature is key. There’s a sweet spot for grilling fish, whether it’s 400 F for thinner fish or slightly above 400 F for thicker cuts, which is why electric grilling is gaining steam. An option like the Current Backyard Electric Grill precisely monitors and controls temperature at the grate level, ensuring accurate cooking where it truly matters, unlike gas grills measuring chamber heat or charcoal grills requiring guesswork.
Ready to cook in 10 minutes, it’s a convenient solution that plugs into a standard 110-volt outlet, meaning there’s no heavy propane tanks or messy charcoal standing between you and delicious grilled seafood. Plus, electric grilling reduces fire risks, harmful fumes and cleanup time.
There’s a “right” way to cook fish. If you’re cooking fish with skin, cook the skin side down first as it’s more forgiving and durable than the inside. This gives the finished dish more stability and structure, lessening the chances of the fish falling apart. Be careful with sugar. Sugary marinades require keeping a close watch on the grill since sugar can burn. If cooked properly, sugars help create a crispy Maillard reaction while acting as a tenderizer, too.
Find more recipes and electric grilling advice at CurrentBackyard.com.
16625 Lancaster Hwy. – 99 • Pizza Hut, 15105 John J Delaney Drive – 93 • Providence Deli, 10636 Providence Road – 96.5 • Red Sake, 8410 Rea Road – 94 • Smoothie King, 9405 Bryant Farms Road – 98 • Super G Mart, 7323 E. Independence Blvd. – 97 • Via Roma, 7416 Waverly Walk Ave. – 96 • Vicious Biscuit, 8200 Providence Road – 95.5
Indian Trail • Country Kitchen Cafeteria, 6001 W. U.S. 74 – 93.5 Matthews • Beach And Borough, 2800 Campus Ridge Road – 99.5 • Chef Henry Catering, 1050 Devore Lane– 97.5 • El Valle Mexican Restaurant, 305 W. John St. – 96 • Great Harvest Bread Co, 110 Matthews Station St. – 96 • Harris Teeter (meat/seafood), 3100 Weddington Road – 98 • Jersey Mikes, 1909 Matthews Township Pkwy. – 94 • Jonathans, 10630 Independence Pointe Pkwy. – 97
Fest brings global stars like Dave Matthews Band, Gwen Stefani, Pitbull, Third Eye Blind, Weezer, Benson Boone, Ludacris, and Teddy Swims to the Queen City, the event is also shining a spotlight on emerging talent from across the Southeast with the Carolina Ascent Stage, presented by Carolina Ascent Football Club.
Set to take place May 2 to 4 in Uptown Charlotte, the fest’s regional stage o ers fans a chance to discover the next wave of musical voices.
Seventeen-year-old Bailey Marie, a rising star from Gaston County, made national headlines after being expelled from her private school for singing at venues that serve alcohol. Rather than backing down, Bailey leaned into her artistry, booking performances nationwide. Her story has inspired thousands, and now she’s taking the stage in her hometown to share her music with the city that shaped her.
e lineup also features a mix of artists carving their own paths – from Chandler Carpenter & e Reckless Souls and their gritty, heartfelt Southern rock, to Stranger Company and Jaylen Dunham, both of whom made waves with standout appearances on “ e Voice.”
Jaylen, a Charlotte native, was handpicked by Gwen Stefani and brings smooth R&B vocals and raw emotion to the stage.
Garrett Huffman, the 2023 Carolina Country Music Association Entertainer of the Year, joins fellow North Carolinian Austin McNeill, who made his Grand Ole Opry debut in 2023 and has shared the stage with country greats like Lainey Wilson and Dustin Lynch.
Charlotte favorites Modern Moxie and Camisole deliver everything from shimmering indie-pop to bold, Paramore-inspired rock, while genre-bending acts like Leone & e Ascension, Weekend Friend and SOPHIA showcase the city’s experimental soul.
Wilmington-based Fudge brings a guitar-heavy coastal edge, Meredith Parks delivers fresh pop stylings and Adolescent Dreams oats between dream-pop and altrock.
Also taking the stage are Charlotte’s favorite dads, Da704, and Raleigh natives Harvey Street. e fan-picked winners of the o cial Lovin’ Life Battle of the Bands – Too Hot for Leather, High June and e Secret Formula Band – will also join the lineup, adding even more homegrown avor to an already stacked weekend.
“Every artist on the Carolina Ascent Stage has a story worth hearing,” said Bob Durkin, co-founder of Southern Entertainment. “ is isn’t just about giving them a slot on the lineup. It’s about elevating the voices of artists who represent the soul of our region. Whether they’re fresh o national tours or playing their rst major fest, they bring the same energy, drive, and passion that de nes Lovin’ Life.”
With over 15 acts, the Carolina Ascent Stage will echo the sounds of the Southeast all weekend, giving fans the chance to discover their next favorite artist before the rest of the world catches on.
Want to go? Visit www.llmfclt.com for more information about Lovin’ Life Music Fest, including ticket sales and lineup updates.
The Courtyards at Quail Park is Accepting Reservations
RESERVE YOUR PLACE IN A THRIVING 55+ COMMUNITY
The Courtyards at Quail Park is now accepting reservations for a limited number of luxury ranch homes designed for active adults. This boutique 55+ community offers thoughtful design, low-maintenance living and an ideal Mint Hill location.
DESIGNED FOR COMFORT AND CONNECTION
Settle into a thoughtfully designed ranch home featuring abundant natural light, first-floor owner’s suites and your own private, garden courtyard—perfect for quiet mornings or gatherings with friends.
MORE TIME FOR WHAT MATTERS MOST
Leave the yard work and exterior upkeep behind. With lawn maintenance taken care of, you’ll have more time to do the things you love—whether that’s relaxing on your patio, traveling, staying active or simply enjoying life at your own pace.
A PEACEFUL SETTING CLOSE TO IT ALL
Ideally located in Mint Hill, The Courtyards at Quail Park puts you minutes from Fairview Park, local events at Mint Hill Veterans Memorial Park and nearby golf courses— so you can stay connected while enjoying a quiet retreat.
Landscape Maintenance Included. Private, Garden Courtyards. Lock & Leave Lifestyle. No Steps.* No Mower.
