The 04-25-2025 Edition of Union County Weekly

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MONROE – North Carolina Emergency Management recognized Union County for its support in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

State o cials presented the award to Union County Emergency Management during the North Carolina Emergency Management Association Conference on March 26. e award acknowledges the aid and resources Union County departments and re departments provided after the hurricane caused widespread damage across western North Carolina.

State officials presented Union County with a North Carolina state ag that ew over the Western Branch o ce of North Carolina Emergency Management and a certi cate of appreciation.

e recognition honors the coordinated e orts of several Union County departments that mobilized to assist impacted communities following the hurricane.

"When Hurricane Helene devastated western North Carolina, Union County answered the call to help without hesitation," said Andrew Ansley, director of Union County Emergency Management.

Union County helped in the following ways:

• Union County Sheriff's Office deployed eight deputies, a mobile command bus,

specialty vehicles and a drone operator to Buncombe County, where they assisted with search and rescue missions and law enforcement patrols.

• Emergency communications answered 911 calls for Yancey County and deployed sta to several 911 call centers, providing relief to workers personally impacted by the storm.

• Emergency management coordinated the response locally by activating the Emergency Operations Center, provided outreach to various agencies and municipalities, and coordinated agency deployments.

• Union County Water dispatched multiple crews to assist with water and wastewater system repairs in the Asheville area. e department also delivered a generator to the Town of Clyde in Haywood County.

• Social services mobilized approximately 25 team members to support emergency shelter operations and provide virtual assistance with Disaster SNAP and Medicaid applications.

• Environmental health deployed staff for food and lodging inspections and other health services.

• Public communications deployed two employees to assist with disseminating information to a ected residents in Buncombe County. The Town of Waxhaw also deployed

MONROE – South Piedmont Community College has received more than $28,000 from the former Providence Volunteer Fire Department to support its firefighting program.

Providence Volunteer Fire Department representatives Scott Robinson and Jack Parks presented a check for $28,322.30 to South Piedmont late last month.

“ is gift will directly support the advancement of our re ghter training programs, empowering our students to serve and protect our community in its most critical moments,” South Piedmont Interim President Michelle Brock said. “ anks to this contribution, we are better equipped to shape the next generation of heroes who will

make a real di erence in saving lives.”

MONROE – A video of a Monroe Police Department K-9 taking down the grinch as he breaks into cars to steal Christmas presents earned the City of Monroe a 2025 Excellence in Communications Awards. Monroe won rst place in the category Best Use of Humor for the Monroe Police Department’s public safety video, “The Grinch Who Got Busted: A Holiday Crime Prevention PSA.”

The North Carolina City & County Communicators announced winners April 10 during its annual conference in Asheville. A total of 179 entries from 47 local governments were judged by peers from the Minnesota Association of Government Communicators.

“ is year, we saw not only the highest number of award submissions we've ever received, but also a record number of mu-

e Providence Volunteer Fire Department served Union and Mecklenburg counties for over 60 years before ceasing operations in 2015. e funds donated to South Piedmont were part of a settlement between the Providence Volunteer Fire Department and the Town of Weddington.

“ e board of the Providence Volunteer Fire Department has used the entire settlement to support 22 volunteer re departments and three educational institutions that provide re ghter training and certication in Union, Stanly and Anson counties,” Robinson said. “We’ve also procured a heavy-lift drone and Starlink systems to assist in the ongoing recovery e orts in western

Grinch video earns Monroe a communications award

nicipalities participating,” NC3C President Kaisha Brown said. “As the competition grows each year, the level of skill and expertise needed to win these awards continues to rise.”

Monroe’s winning entry, created by the Monroe Police Department, aimed to raise awareness about the spike in car break-ins during the holiday season, especially as shoppers become more distracted and vehicles are left unattended. In the video, the grinch is dressed as Santa and snooping around parked cars. He’s able to get into the backseat of one and scoop presents into his arms. Police arrive before the grinch can get away and a K-9 o cer takes him down. e grinch can only shake his head in defeat as police haul him o to jail.

The city received high marks from the judges for creativity, humor and impact, noting the video delivered its message e ectively

State honors Union County for Hurricane Helene response

a communications professional to coordinate sharing information in Mitchell County.

• Cooperative Extension, human services, the library and the sheriff's office coordinated county-wide donation drives for impacted communities.

• Multiple Union County fire and police departments deployed first responders to assist with emergency search and rescue operations in the western part of the state, including Monroe, Bakers, Mineral Springs and Wesley Chapel re departments; Stallings, Monroe and Waxhaw police departments; and Union EMS.

Donation boosts South Piedmont’s firefighting program

North Carolina and over time across the entire state.

“ ese grants are intended to honor the men and women of the Providence VFD who provided outstanding re suppression and emergency response services for six decades,” Robinson continued. “ ey also ensure the legacy of Providence VFD lives on by supporting the training of new rst responders and enabling local VFDs to upgrade their equipment and facilities to better serve their communities.”

South Piedmont will use the donation to purchase critical re ghting training equipment, including adult- and child-sized manikins, training lights, hoses and doors.

while also capturing viewers’ attention and generating strong community engagement.

“ is award is a re ection of the innovative and collaborative spirit that exists across our city,” City Manager Mark Watson said. “It’s encouraging to see our team use humor and creativity to reach the public with meaningful safety messages, especially during the busy holiday season when reminders like this are so important.”

is marks the City of Monroe’s second Excellence in Communications Award in three years.

In addition to o cial deployments, several county employees used personal leave to volunteer with nonpro ts delivering relief and supplies.

" is recognition is a tribute to the professionalism, compassion and teamwork demonstrated by Union County employees," County Manager Brian Matthews said. " eir e orts made a real di erence to struggling communities, and it speaks to the strength of public service when it's needed most."

Various groups and employees who assisted in this e ort will be recognized May 5 at the county commissioners meeting.

Sheriff’s office says two shootings were gangrelated

MONROE – The Union County Sheriff’s Office says detectives linked a drive-by shooting and a weapons assault last month to an ongoing dispute between two gangs.

Deputies responded to a report of a drive-by shooting in the 4000 block of Morning Glory Drive. They found a sedan parked in the driveway had been struck approximately 16 times by gunfire. Two of the rounds hit a nearby mobile home that was occupied by at least ve people at the time of the shooting but no injuries were reported, according to the sheri ’s o ce.

The next day, detectives learned of a 16-year-old male treated at a hospital with a gunshot wound. Officials said the teen was a suspect in the drive-by shooting the day prior.

“The level of violence we’ve seen in these incidents is deeply troubling,” Sheri Eddie Cathey said. “We’re dealing with young people who are making dangerous decisions that put entire families at risk. Our deputies and detectives are committed to getting to the bottom of this and doing everything in our power to hold these o enders accountable and keep our community safe.”

Five people from the two cases face charges.

From the drive-by shooting:

• Yair Avalos-Vergara, 19, was arrested on charges of discharging a weapon into occupied property. He received a $500,000 secured bond.

• Two minors also were charged with discharging a weapon into occupied property via juvenile petitions through the Department of Juvenile Justice.

From the weapons assault:

• Oscar Gonzalez-Capote, 18, was arrested on charges of attempted murder, discharging a weapon into occupied property and conspiracy. He received a $505,000 secured bond.

• Altagracia Juarez-Melchor, 19, was arrested on charges of attempted murder, discharging a weapon into occupied property and conspiracy. She received a $500,000 secured bond.

Call the sheriff’s office at 704-283-3789 or Union County Crime Stoppers at 704283-5600 with information about these cases.

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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.

(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.

Legislators, All Pro Dad champion fatherhood initiatives

RALEIGH – All Pro Dad announced the expansion of its statewide fatherhood programming in North Carolina along with new initiatives aimed at increasing father engagement and strengthening families across the state. e announcement was made during a press conference attended by N.C. Rep. David Willis. Earlier this month, Willis introduced House Bill 780, which provides funding for additional All Pro Dad chapters and creates a program to support North Carolina fathers.

“We are committed to providing the best resources and support our families need,” Willis said. “When fathers are present and engaged, kids do better – in school and in life. Partnering with All Pro Dad is a powerful step forward for our state.”

Led by the organization’s founders Tony Dungy and Mark Merrill, All Pro Dad is a national program with 1,449 chapters across 42 states, inspiring men to embrace their roles as

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

support to ensure families thrive," Dungy said. "It takes a team to create real change. When government, schools and nonpro ts work together, we build stronger connections with families and help tackle challenges like fatherlessness head-on.”

All Pro Dad will bring an integrated approach to North Carolina schools, including interactive school-based events, daily encouragement and monthly chapter meetings. These touchpoints give fathers consistent opportunities to build stronger relationships with their children, engage in leadership and receive practical parenting tips. rough this statewide e ort, All Pro Dad hopes to increase family engagement and impact the lives of students and parents in North Carolina. By creating accessible, meaningful opportunities for fathers to participate in school life, the program aims to build stronger, more connected communities. On the web: allprodad.com

Storytime

Representatives from All Pro Dad talk about initiatives to increase its presence in North Carolina.
Photo courtesy of All Pro Dad

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

• Kabob-Je Rotisserie & Grille, 2233 Matthews Township Pkwy.

– 98 • Konark Meat Market, 11328 E. Independence Blvd. – 95.5

• Margaritas Mexican Restaurant, 10056 E. Independence Blvd.

– 97.5 • Moo & Brew, 235 N. Trade St.

– 91 • Starbucks Coffee, 2233 Mat-

thews Township Pkwy. – 99.5

Mint Hill • Publix (deli/cheese), 6828 Matthews-Mint Hill Road – 99

• Publix (meat market), 6828 Mat-

thews-Mint Hill Road – 99

• Publix (seafood), 6828 Matthews-Mint Hill Road – 100

Monroe • Best Western Inn and Suites

Breakfast Bar, 2316 Hanover Drive – 99

• Community Mart, 1002 S. Rocky River Road – 93

• La Poblanita Supermarket, 1113 Sunset Lane – 97.5

• Monterrey Restaurante Mexicano, 1006 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 97

• Silvinos, 2805 Chamber Drive – 96.5

• Sorella Coffee, 107 S. Main St.

– 98.5

• Sunset Tacos, 1113 Sunset Lane

– 93

• The Spot, 1513 Concord Ave. – 94 Pineville

• Manila Grill, 10500 Centrum Pkwy. – 96.5

• Sbarro Italian Eatery, 11025 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 98

• Vindu On Wheels, 212 N. Polk St. – 95.5

• Zygma European Grocery & Deli Store, 804 N. Polk St. – 98.5

Stallings • Harris Teeter (deli), 1351 Chestnut Lane – 96

• Harris Teeter (meat/seafood), 1351 Chestnut Lane – 96

• U-Sav, 3609 Matthews-Weddington Road – 87.5

Waxhaw

• East Coast Wings & Grill, 8121 Kensington Drive – 96.5

CLASSIFIEDS

Lovin’ Life Music Fest to highlight local artists

CHARLOTTE – As Lovin’ Life Music

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.

Jenkins Peer Architects, 112 S Tryon St, #1300, Charlotte, NC 28284.

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.

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