CHARLOTTE – City Manager Marcus Jones presented his proposed fiscal year 2026 budget May 5 to Mayor Vi Lyles and the Charlotte City Council. The budget proposes no property tax increase but two other service fee increases: Storm Water Services, which equates to a $0.67 monthly increase for the typical customer, and Water and Sewer, which equates to a $5.47 monthly increase for the
typical customer.
by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com
CHARLOTTE
– The Charlotte Area Transit System recommends extending the LYNX Blue Line to Pineville, improving bus frequency and expanding microtransit.
Mecklenburg County is trying to put a 1-cent sales tax referendum on an election ballot but pending legislation caps how much of that revenue can be spent on rail projects. CATS has been collecting input from the public and working with elected leaders to update its Transit System Plan to re ect such scal constraints.
CATS recently introduced four fiscally constrained scenarios for consideration.
All four scenarios call for the creation of the LYNX Red Line commuter rail from Uptown to Lake Norman, extensions of the LYNX Gold Line streetcar to Rosa Parks and Eastland, and the implementation of systemwide bus improvements that would increase frequency.
e four scenarios diverge when it comes to planned light rail projects serving Pineville, Ballantyne, east Charlotte and Matthews.
One scenario called for prioritizing complete buildout of the Blue Line to Ballantyne. Another called for converting light rail extensions to Pineville and Ballantyne into Bus Rapid Transit.
But CATS made an official recommendation to the Metropolitan Transit Commission on April 30 to approve the scenario that prioritizes extending the Blue Line extension from the I-485 Station in Charlotte to Carolina Place Mall in Pineville while designating Ballantyne as a future connection.
CATS also recommends the Silver Line project be built out from Charlotte Douglas International Airport to Bojangles Coliseum and Ovens Auditorium with future consideration toward Matthews to the east and Gaston County to the west.
Brent Cagle, interim CEO for CATS, said his team heard two major things from their public engagement sessions: enhancing bus service and expanding light rail were important.
“ at is not a surprise,” Cagle said of light rail. “Over the last 20 years, we have heard
By Kristen Anderson Contributor
CHARLOTTE – The Mecklenburg Metropolitan Interfaith Network will honor three outstanding Charlotte-Mecklenburg residents at its Community Leader Awards Breakfast.
MeckMIN fosters interfaith understanding, trust and collaboration across Mecklenburg County by bringing together individuals, faith communities and organizations. Rooted in the region’s rich religious diversity, MeckMIN promotes compassion, connection and justice in its mission to build an inclusive community where every person is
“I am pleased to propose a balanced budget that continues to invest in meeting the needs of our community and Team Charlotte,” Jones said. “With this budget, the city is continuing to build on our strong nancial foundation to meet the needs of the Charlotte community, advance council’s priorities, and prepare for future growth and opportunities.”
e proposed budget will have a public
that consistently in Mecklenburg County.”
He said the scenario they landed on preserves the ability to build rapid transit corridors with rail while expanding them when possible.
While the projects outlined within this scenario are designed to be completed within 30 years, officials say future connections to Ballantyne and Matthews would be considered as funding allows. Both areas would see enhanced bus service in the meantime.
e Metropolitan Transit Commission, which consists mainly of mayors from across the county, is expected to vote on the recommendation later this month.
The only pushback on the plan April 30 came from Matthews Mayor John Higdon. He wanted to see the light rail in his town prioritized and suggested systemwide bus improvements be paid for through another funding source.
CATS’s recommendation included a phased implementation strategy with Better Bus improvements, Red Line service and Silver Line construction starting in the shortterm. Blue Line, Silver Line and Gold Line service are targeted for the mid term.
Part of the CATS recommendation includes a bullet point to study and evaluate options, including other funding opportunities, to extend the LYNX Silver Line east.
Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles said that she wanted people to understand that the Better Bus initiative and microtransit are critical parts of the transit plan.
CATS also identi ed several ways transit would be improved in south Charlotte, Pineville and parts of southern Mecklenburg County through the Better Bus program:
• All routes in South Mecklenburg would be improved to 30-minutes or better frequency.
Budget proposes no property tax increase
hearing on May 12, followed by budget adjustments on May 19, straw votes on May 29 and potential adoption by the council on June 9. e 2026 scal year begins July 1, 2025.
e city provided these highlights of the proposed scal year 2026 budget:
• A structurally balanced budget with a two-year lens that does not increase property taxes, preserves core services and maintains reserves.
CATS RECOMMENDS EXTENDING BLUE LINE, IMPROVING BUS SERVICE
This chart, taken from a CATS presentation on its transit plan update, shows how projects within the CATS Transit Plan will be implemented over time.
• Routes for South Tryon Street (16) and Park Road (19) would be improved to a 15-minute or better frequency.
• South Tryon Street (16) would become a priority bus corridor with signal priority and enhanced stops.
• Four Express routes would see increased frequency with midday service: Steele Creek (41X), Providence Road (61X), Rea Road (62X) and a new Ballantyne Express to the LYNX Blue Line.
• Microtransit would serve areas of south Charlotte (Ballantyne, Park Crossing, Starmount, Quail Hollow and Steele Creek) and Pineville (Downtown, Carolina Place Mall, N.C. 51, Park Road and Atrium Health Pineville).
• South Mecklenburg would also see an expansion of bus stop amenities, such as shelters, benches or waiting pads.
CATS plans to expand and improve bus service within the rst ve years and complete capital investments within 10 years. Capital investment includes improving bus stops and expanding its eet by 89 new buses.
MeckMIN to honor Charlotte community leaders
valued and respected. is year’s event, themed “Together We Rise,” will honor the following individuals whose actions and leadership uplift others and exemplify MeckMIN’s commitment to unity, mutual respect and service across the county:
• Glenn M. Smith, recipient of the Sydnor ompson, Jr. Community Leader Award, for a decades-long career supporting incarcerated individuals, at-risk youth, and their families. As the founder of Life Connections of the Carolinas, Smith has helped hundreds of local families remain united, kept
• Continues Charlotte’s legacy of affordable cost of service, with the lowest tax rate will remain the lowest among North Carolina’s largest cities in FY 2025.
• Establishes the Office of Youth Opportunities to promote economic opportunity and positive youth development for ages 13-24.
Servant’s Heart volunteer honored by Nourish Up
By Mary Beth Foster Contributor
MINT HILL – Servant’s Heart volunteer Angie Caroway was honored April 26 as the sole recipient of Nourish Up’s 2024 Beverly Howard Award.
Named for Nourish Up’s longtime executive director, the award recognizes an individual or volunteer group who has faithfully served the community by combating hunger through dedicated volunteer service with Nourish Up.
Equally important to the duration of the individual’s service is the spirit in which it is done, demonstrating Nourish Up’s core value of dignity and extending hope to people experiencing economic hardship. Like Howard, the recipient must exhibit compassion and heartfelt dedication to the vision, mission and values of Nourish Up.
A retired police officer, sergeant and detective with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, Caroway began volunteering at Servant’s Heart in fall 2020. At the height of the pandemic, Caroway faithfully volunteered weekly, receiving and stocking donations, packing food and nonfood pantry orders, and distributing client orders, including Nourish Up food boxes, through Curbside Pantry Pickup. Moreover, Caroway volunteers annually with Servant’s Heart’s Seasonal Assistance Programs, like Back2School, Turkey Tuesday and Christmas Assistance.
An avid supporter and perpetual advocate for Servant’s Heart, Caroway distinguishes herself with the courtesy and kindness she shows every client with whom she comes in contact.
Her support was critical during the pandemic when Servant’s Heart began managing distribution of Food from Loaves and Fishes, one of two long standing
Retired police officer Angie Caroway continues serving the community through volunteer work at nonprofits like Servant’s Heart of Mint Hill and Nourish Up.
Photo courtesy of Mary Beth Foster Story continues, see SERVANTS HEART page 3A
Erkham Adiguzel, Hamide Adiguzel, Amee Roome, Meryem Askin and Mustafa Altinok attend the 2024 MeckMIN Community Leaders Breakfast on May 2, 2024, at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. Photo courtesy of Amee Roome
This chart, taken from a CATS presentation on its transit plan update, gives specifics on the LYNX Blue Line extension to Pineville and Ballantyne. Photo courtesy of CATS
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Caregivers: Seek help navigating dementia before a crisis
CHARLOTTE – The Ivey has a message for caregivers: Prioritizing your own health early while caring for a loved one living with memory loss is non-negotiable. It’s wise, protective and the best gift you can give yourself and the person for whom you care.
Caring for a loved one with memory loss is emotionally and physically demanding, siad Lynn Ivey, CEO and founder of e Ivey, the nonpro t center she established in 2008 to honor her parents.
“It is not uncommon for caregivers to turn to us at a crisis point, when they’re already exhausted and overwhelmed,” she said. “While we’re always here to help, there is so much more support and strength available when caregivers begin their journey with self-care in mind.”
Caregiving can be isolating, but it is a universal issue: everyone in their lifetime will receive or give care.
ere are 105 million caregivers in
BUSINESS BRIEFS
UCPS to host non-instructional career fair
MONROE – Union County Public Schools is hiring for several roles, including bus drivers, school nutrition sta , custodial team members and afterschool sta .
e district will host a career fair from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 21 at the UCPS Professional Development Center, 721 Brewer Drive, Monroe.
Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions, meet employees and apply for open positions. Hiring managers will be on-site to discuss job openings and assist with applications.
On the web: ucps.k12.nc.us/Page/7893
Charlotte Area Chamber events
CHARLOTTE – e Charlotte Area Chamber of Commerce will o er member orientation and a program on imposter syndrome.
• The Women in Business group partners with the Mental Health America of Central Carolinas on a program about imposter syndrome from 9 to 11 a.m. May 12 at the Dilworth Center, 2240 Park Road, Charlotte. Register in advance. Chamber members get in free. Others pay $25.
• The chamber offers orientation to new or prospective members from 9 to 10:30 a.m. May 15 at e Launch Factory, 2459 Wilkinson Blvd., Charlotte. Register in advance.
Visit charlotteareachamber.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Latin American Chamber events
CHARLOTTE – e Latin American Chamber of Commerce will hold an online business seminar and business luncheon.
• The chamber offers a seminar, Building Business Credit: Position Your Business for Growth, “ from 6 to 8 p.m. May 12 on Zoom. Register in advance for the free seminar.
• Gov. Josh Stein talks about business and talent during a luncheon from noon to 2 p.m. May 15 at Mint Museum Uptown, 500 S. Tryon St., Charlotte. Register in advance. Visit lacccharlotte.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Matthews Area Chamber events
MATTHEWS – e Matthews Area Chamber of Commerce will host its annual golf tournament as well as Business After Hours and Women in Business events.
• The chamber hosts its annual golf tournament from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. May 12 at Olde Sycamore Golf Plantation, 7500 Olde Sycamore Drive, Mint Hill. Register in advance.
• The Women in Business meet for networking from 5 to 7 p.m. May 13 at Green Room Remedies at Get Me Some Green, 3555 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Matthews. Members get in free. Guests pay $10. Register in advance.
the United States who are actively caring for someone who is aging, ill or disabled.
If you’re a caregiver, it might seem inconceivable that you’d prioritize creating a self-care action plan, Ivey said, but it’s about weaving small, meaningful habits into your day so you can stay well while giving care.
“Caregiving is a 24-hour job,” Ivey said. “Stress and burnout occur because of constant focus on the safety, health, supervision and entertainment of a loved one resulting in neglect of their own health, depression, anxiety, sleep problems, guilt and worry.”
Acknowledging it’s challenging to do, caregivers can start with a mindshift, Ivey said. Accept that you can’t do it all, and that’s OK.
“You are human,” she said. “Let go of the guilt when you need to step away or ask for help.”
e Ivey’s Respite Club is a restorative opportunity to create routine for caregivers and those living with
• Members mingle during a Business After Hours from 5 to 7 p.m. May 15 at Your Best You Medical Spa, 300 E. John St., Matthews. Register in advance.
Visit matthewschamber.org to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Mint Hill Chamber events
MINT HILL – e Mint Hill Chamber of Commerce will host its Monthly Member Luncheon.
• The chamber holds its Monthly Member Luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 13 at Olde Sycamore Golf Plantation, 7500 Olde Sycamore Drive, Mint Hill. Registration costs $18 for members and $24 for others. Register in advance.
Visit minthillchamberofcommerce.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Pineville NC Chamber events
PINEVILLE – e Pineville NC Chamber of Commerce holds its Co ee and Roundtable event.
• Curt White, general manager of Carolina Place Mall, discusses his work during the Co ee and Roundtable event from 8 to 9:30 a.m. May 14 at Hilton Garden Inn Charlotte Pineville, 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 Public Policy Luncheon, ribbon cutting and member orientation.
• Members celebrate the grand opening of Caribou Co ee with a ribbon cutting at 10 a.m. May 9 at 301 W. Roosevelt Blvd., Monroe. Register in advance.
• N.C. Department of Transportation leaders explain road funding and infrastructure needs during a Public Policy Luncheon from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 14 at Union County Agricultural Center, 3230 Presson Road, Monroe. Members pay $25. Others pay $35. Register in advance.
• New members learn how to get the most out of their membership during Get Plugged In from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. May 15 at the Union County Chamber, 903 Skyway Drive, Monroe. 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.
memory loss. Four days a week, 1-5 p.m., the experts at e Ivey provide socially engaging, educational and memory-enhancing activities in a supervised environment for those living with memory loss.
e bene ts of Respite Club are often apparent after the rst week of participation, sometimes the rst visit, Ivey said.
“Caregivers get a break – a chance to have lunch with friends, visit the mall, run errands or read a book – knowing their loved one is safe, engaged and cared for in an environment tailored to their needs,” she said. “It’s restorative for all involved.”
e Ivey’s Respite Club reinforces connection for caregivers and those with memory loss. Isolation increases caregiver burnout, Ivey said, and a community is created around regularly engaging at e Ivey.
“Emotional solidarity is created by interacting with those having a similar lived experience,” Ivey said.
e Ivey provides a Family Caregiver Navigation team dedicated to providing hope, comfort and compassion, in addition to o ering four free monthly support groups. It has the resources to o er assessments, care plans, education, training, and counseling and can help to coordinate in-home care, physical therapy, and other necessary resources. Visit theivey.com/programs/respite-club for more information.
Senate next to tackle elimination of DEI in government
By Alan Wooten Contributor
(The Center Square) – Diversity policies in state government would be eliminated if legislation passing the North Carolina House of Representatives becomes law.
Equality in State Agencies/Prohibition on DEI, known also as House Bill 171, is in the Senate’s Rules Committee after clearing the lower chamber 69-45. No Democrats supported it. No Republicans were against it. Union County
Republican David Willis was a sponsor of the bill.
“Bureaucracy has grown, not to serve but to sort, dividing people by race, sex, background and calling it progress,” Rep. Brenden Jones, R-Columbus, said in his oor speech for the bill he authored. “It puts an end to the idea that the background should outweigh ability. It stops public jobs, promotions and contracts from being awarded based on political agendas, and it restores the principle that should have never been lost: Can you do the job? Did you earn it? Are you quali ed?” He told the chamber the proposal will ensure hiring and promotion decision based on quali cations. He also took time to explain it will not ban Black History Month, Pride Month or any cultural celebrations; rather, he said, “it explicitly protects them.”
“It bans unequal treatment funded by the public,” Jones said.
Rep. Robert Reives, D-Chatham, leader of the minority party in the chamber, on the oor said, “Rep. Jones said, ‘We value diversity.’ But the rst line of this bill says, ‘an act eliminating diversity initiatives.’ You cannot value what you are seeking to eliminate.”
e bill says, “No state agency shall promote, support, fund, implement, or maintain workplace diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), including using DEI in state government hirings and employment; maintaining dedicated DEI sta positions or o ces; or o ering or requiring DEI training.”
e Senate has passed bills banning DEI in higher education and K-12 schools.
Rep. Loften weighs in
Brandon Lofton, who represents parts of south Charlotte in the N.C. House, explained why he voted against House Bill 171 in his newsletter.
“It’s based on stereotypes instead of facts. It enacts sweeping consequences for vaguely de ned concepts. It turns its back on the legacy of those who sacri ced to expand opportunities for all North Carolinians.
“In 2022, a bipartisan House committee consisting of nine Republicans and three Democrats explored ways to encourage more opportunities for women and underrepresented minorities in STEM elds. is committee found that doing so ‘will help maintain a strong economic workforce in the State.’
“In other words, this bipartisan committee found that diversity is good for our state’s economy. Yet, just three years later, we are at risk of turning our back on this common sense notion.”
Brandon Lofton
May 10 Yard
Sale
Pineville Parks and Recreation hosts its Spring Community Yard Sale at Pineville Lake Park’s large shelter.
7 a.m.-noon; 909 Lakeview Drive, Pineville
Book Signing
Patrice Gopo signs copies of her book, “Ripening Time,” at Park Road Books. parkroadbooks.com
10:30 a.m.-noon; 4139 Park Road, Charlotte
Family Storytime Families engage in stories and songs during Family Storytime at SouthPark Regional Library. Get a ticket at the children’s desk before the program starts. cmlibrary.org/locations/ SouthPark-Regional
10:15-10:45 a.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte
Paws to Read Children, ages 5-11, read to a volunteer therapy dog during Paws to Read at SouthPark Regional Library. Kids read for 15 minutes. Register in advance by calling 704416-5421. cmlibrary.org/locations/ SouthPark-Regional.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte
May 12
Toddler Storytime Toddlers build literacy skills through music and stories during Toddler Storytime at SouthPark Regional Library. Get a ticket at the children’s desk before the program. cmlibrary. org/locations/south-county-regional
9:30-10 a.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte
Family Storytime Families engage in literacy activities during Family Storytime at Pineville Library. Get a ticket at the front desk 15 minutes before the program starts. cmlibrary.org/locations/Pineville 10-10:30 a.m.; 505 Main St., Pineville
Family Storytime Families engage in stories and songs during Family Storytime at SouthPark Regional Library. Get a ticket at the children’s desk before the program starts. cmlibrary.org/locations/ SouthPark-Regional
10:15-10:45 a.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte
SERVANTS HEART from 1A
nonprofits with a rich history of fighting hunger that joined forces to create Nourish Up in 2021.
“I could not have fulfilled the many requests for food and household essentials in 2020 and 2021 without Angie,” said Rochelle Williams, social worker for Servant’s Heart. “When times seemed uncertain during the government shutdown, Angie faithfully showed up and helped me to prepare up to 20 – 25 pantry orders every week. With her help, every order was processed and prepared efficiently.
To this day, Angie continues to be someone that shows up for others. Through sunshine, rain and snow, Angie faithfully volunteers in our assistance programs, every week, to ensure that no family goes without
MeckMIN from 1A
thousands of youth out of jail, and has coached thousands of incarcerated men in the life skills needed to succeed in society.
• J.D. Dupuy, recipient of the Bridge Builder Award, for his extensive volunteer work and unwavering commitment to hunger relief, community service and interfaith ministry both locally and globally. A practicing attorney, Dupuy dedicates time to leading Covenant Presbyterian Church’s Hunger Ministry and serves on the Salvation Army Advisory Board, and is a member of the Charlotte Rotary Club and the Mecklenburg Optimist Club. Through his compassion, humility and infectious joy for service, he brings people together to make a meaningful difference.
• Prableen Kaur, the inaugural recipient of the Youth Leader Award, for her efforts to foster a collaborative and inclusive interfaith environment at Providence Day School, within her Gurdwara, and through her volunteer work
Baby Storytime Children learn language and socialization skills through Baby Storytime at SouthPark Regional Library. Get a ticket at the children’s desk before the program. cmlibrary.org/locations/ south-county-regional 11-11:30 a.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte
May 13
Toddler Storytime
Toddlers build literacy skills through music and stories during Toddler Storytime at SouthPark Regional Library. Get a ticket at the children’s desk before the program. cmlibrary. org/locations/south-county-regional
9:30-10 a.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte
Family Storytime Families engage in stories and songs during Family Storytime at SouthPark Regional Library. Get a ticket at the children’s desk before the program starts. cmlibrary.org/locations/ SouthPark-Regional
10:15-10:45 a.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte Global Cafe Adults practice speaking English
food and necessary household essentials.”
Since 2020, Servant’s Heart has served as one of Nourish Up’s 16 full-size food pantry distribution sites. In 2024, Servant’s Heart distributed $95,301 in food assistance; and $44,140 of that was through its partnership with Nourish Up.
Caroway was honored at Nourish Up’s Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast, which was attended by well over a hundred people, including Servant’s Heart Founder and Executive Director Kim Rhodarmer.
“The dedication and consistency Angie brings to Servant’s Heart is admirable,” Rhodarmer said. “It is an honor to be partnered with Nourish Up and to witness Angie compassionately serving our clients.”
with local and global organizations. Kaur’s deep commitment to her Sikh faith, combined with her sincere respect for the beliefs and experiences of others, exemplifies the spirit of interfaith understanding and youth leadership that MeckMIN seeks to uplift.
"I always walk away from the breakfast feeling good,” said LeDayne McLeese Polaski, executive director of MeckMIN. “There’s something powerful about being in a room filled with people from so many different communities, and hearing from inspiring leaders who are actively building bridges every day.”
The Community Leader Awards Breakfast will take place from 7:30 to 9 a.m. May 9 at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, 3400 Beatties Ford Road, Charlotte. Tickets can be purchased at www.meckmin.org/awardbreakfast.
Attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable food donations for Nourish Up (formerly Loaves & Fishes/Friendship Trays), supporting neighbors facing food insecurity.
BUDGET from 1A
• Helps to ensure fire response times are met with an additional $25.6 million to continue advancing: construction of five firehouses (three new infill and two replacements) and expansion of one existing firehouse to accommodate an additional fire company.
• Adds a commercial burn building to the Advanced Planning and Design Program to support ongoing training for Charlotte firefighters.
• Supports expansion of the 911 call center in police headquarters and the Police and Fire Training Academy with $2 million in funding in FY 2026 for a project total of $9 million.
• Funds $30 million over the next four years for a satellite Animal Care and Control adoption facility that is currently in design.
• Begins a four-year plan to improve Solid Waste Services’ cost recovery to 50% for residential curbside collections by splitting the Solid Waste fee into two – residential curbside and residential dumpster – and increasing the curbside fee by $1.35 per month and the dumpster fee by $0.49 per month.
• Supports minority, women-owned and small businesses with nearly $2 million to establish the Small Business Readiness fund to build capacity in targeted industries, especially those related to mobility investments, and to continue NXT|CLT and Amp Up.
• $3.65 billion budget net of transfers, including Charlotte Douglas International
during Global Cafe at SouthPark Regional Library. cmlibrary.org/ locations/SouthPark-Regional 1-2 p.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte
TV Trivia
Middle James Brewing holds a trivia night with the theme of “Stranger Things.” Middlejamesbrewing.com Open now 7-9 p.m.; 400 N. Polk St., Pineville
May 14
Toddler Storytime
Toddlers build literacy skills through music and stories during Toddler Storytime at SouthPark Regional Library. Get a ticket at the children’s desk before the program. cmlibrary. org/locations/south-county-regional
9:30-10 a.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte
Family Storytime
Families engage in stories and songs during Family Storytime at SouthPark Regional Library. Get a ticket at the children’s desk before the program starts. cmlibrary.org/locations/ SouthPark-Regional 10:15-10:45 a.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte
NEWS BRIEFS
Author Talk Sarah Gallucci Gopo discusses her book, “Laid: A Memoir of Love, Sex and Marriage,” at Park Road Books. parkroadbooks.com 7-8 p.m.; 4139 Park Road, Charlotte
May 15
Toddler Storytime Toddlers build literacy skills through music and stories during Toddler Storytime at SouthPark Regional Library. Get a ticket at the children’s desk before the program. cmlibrary. org/locations/south-county-regional 9:30-10 a.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte
Family Storytime Families engage in literacy activities during Family Storytime at Pineville Library. Get a ticket at the front desk 15 minutes before the program starts. cmlibrary.org/locations/Pineville 10-10:30 a.m.; 505 Main St., Pineville
Baby Storytime Children learn language and socialization skills through Baby Storytime at SouthPark Regional Library. Get a ticket at the children’s desk before the program. cmlibrary.org/locations/ south-county-regional 11-11:30 a.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte
Paws to Read Children, ages 5-11, read to a volunteer therapy dog during Paws to Read at SouthPark Regional Library. Kids read for 15 minutes. Register in advance by calling 704416-5421. cmlibrary.org/locations/ SouthPark-Regional. 5-6 p.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte
Author Talk Judy Goldman (“The Rest of Our Lives”) and Robin Hemley (How to Change History”) discuss their books and writing at Park Road Books. parkroadbooks.com 7-8 p.m.; 4139 Park Road, Charlotte
Family Storytime Families engage in stories and songs during Family Storytime at SouthPark Regional Library. Get a ticket at the children’s desk before the program starts. cmlibrary.org/ locations/SouthPark-Regional 10:15-10:45 a.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte
South End’s Camden Commons returns with games, shopping CHARLOTTE – South End’s Camden Road will transform this summer into a block party with the return of Camden Commons.
The street fest, now in its fourth year, is produced by Charlotte Center City Partners.
Attractions include larger-than-life games, creative lounging spaces, a DJ and opportunities to shop at small businesses from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 25, June 29 and July 27.
“Camden Commons is South End at its best – laid back, vibrant and full of joy,” said Allison Mills, the South End community manager at Charlotte Center City Partners. “It's the perfect place to fall in love with a local business, catch up with friends or dilly dally the day away.”
Camden Road will be closed to cars from Tremont Avenue to East/West Boulevard from 7 to 8 p.m. during each Camden Commons event.
On the web: southendclt.org/events/ camden-commons
South Meck senior wins NCHSAA scholarship CHARLOTTE – Tia Montgomery, a senior at South Mecklenburg High School, received a Willie Bradshaw Memorial Endowed Scholarship from the NCHSAA Foundation.
The scholarships go to student-athletes who meet the academic criteria as well as have athletic involvement and sound character.
With a grade point average of 3.10, Tia has excelled
in both academics and athletics, especially in softball and flag football. She is heading to North Carolina A&T State to pursue a career in social work while continuing her athletic journey.
Meck Pre-K appreciates teachers
CHARLOTTE – MECK Pre-K is celebrating teachers from May 5 to 9 during National Teacher Appreciation Week.
This celebration recognizes the impact early childhood educators have on the lives of children and their families.
To highlight and thank these professionals, MECK Pre-K is launching a public appreciation campaign that includes:
• A series of digital graphics featured on the digital billboard on 4th Street in uptown Charlotte, showcasing Pre-K teachers and their contributions.
• Recognition on WSOC-TV throughout the week.
• Gifts of appreciation for each teacher, including a personalized card signed by the MECK Pre-K administrators.
MECK Pre-K will be posting throughout the week on Faceook and Instagram at @MeckPreK.
On the web: MeckPreK.org
Quick Hits
• Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools named Amanda Rogers (Myers Park High School) and Julie Chasnis (Smithfield Elementary School and Starmount Academy of Excellence) among four finalists for School Nurse of the Year.
CMS schools win awards for school culture
CHARLOTTE – Twelve Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools have won the 2024-25 Capturing Kids’ Hearts National Showcase School Award.
The award recognizes schools that go above and beyond in creating a school culture where students feel safe, connected and engaged. Leading with your heart is a major component of the Capturing Kids’ Hearts process, which shows progress in student connectedness, academic achievement and overall student culture.
CMS winners are Albemarle Road, Berewick, Eastover, Elon Park, Highland Creek, Huntingtowne Farms, Mint Hill, Paw Creek and Selwyn elementary schools; Joseph W. Grier and Westerly Hills academies; and Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School.
“I’m so proud of the work our schools and school leaders have done to embrace and implement Capturing Kids’ Hearts,” CMS Superintendent Crystal Hill
Airport, the Charlotte Area Transit System, Charlotte Water, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Storm Water Services and the general government funds.
• $943.5 million, or a 5.2% increase, in the Proposed General Fund.
A Continued Focus on Retaining and Investing in Team Charlotte
• Raises minimum pay for city employees to $24 per hour from $23 per hour.
• Budgets a 4% pay increase for all hourly employees in two phases (1.5% increase in September and 2.5% merit pool in November).
• Provides a 3% merit pool for salaried employees.
• Provides pay and incentive actions in the Public Safety Pay Plan for police and fire. This includes a 6.5% pay increase to most sworn (including existing pay plan steps) for eligible police and fire employees who are not at the top pay step. Police and fire employees who are at the top pay step receive a 1.5% increase and a 1.5% one-time bonus (for a total of 3%).
• Continues funding the Charlotte Firefighters’ Retirement System with an additional 4 percentage points for firefighters, for a total employer contribution rate of 29.31%, which is more than double the employer contribution rate in FY 2020. Establishes an $11 million radio replacement program to ensure critical public safety communication infrastructure is replaced regularly. Adds 15 more
hybrid, take-home vehicles for police.
said. “Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools is committed to educating the whole child and ensuring that we are not only educating them, but we are also creating a safe and trusting learning environment that leads to improved student engagement, behavior and academic achievement.”
Twenty CMS leaders and schools achieved Rising Star Status for their first year of implementing the Capturing Kids’ Hearts process. Winners from southern Mecklenburg County include:
• Community House Middle School – Brian Slattery.
• Ardrey Kell High School – Jamie Brooks.
• Independence High School – Amy Mims.
• Butler High School – Yolanda Blakeney.
• South Mecklenburg High School – Marc Angerer.
• Rea Farms STEAM Academy – Brooklyn Hough.
• Myers Park High School – Bob Folk.
• Continues the city’s Education to Employment program, giving Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools graduates opportunities for entry-level positions within the city.
• Continues pre-paid tuition assistance and career coaching with Central Piedmont Community College.
• Continues employee assistance programs such as the Emergency Loan Program for Hardships and Employee Rental Assistance Program.
• Expands eligibility for the Health Care Premium Relief Program to employees with household incomes up to $70,500.
Investments in Fundamental Programs
• Leverages more than $1.8 million in funding to support urgent home repair, affordable housing placement, and high-quality naturally occurring affordable housing in addition to the $100 million voter-approved 2024 Housing Bond to increase affordable housing production.
• Continues the city’s commitment to violence reduction through investments in the Alternatives to Violence program along Beatties Ford Road and provides funding for the expansion of Atrium Health’s hospital-based violence intervention program, Project BOOST.
• Invests $1 million to start a community benefits fund to help advance the greatest
needs identified in the 14 Community Area Plans.
• Continues to advance Strategic Energy Action Plan goals with $2.5 million of funding to support the installation of sustainable infrastructure at city-owned facilities and funding for 45 electric vehicles to advance emissions reductions in the city’s fleet and 155 hybrid vehicles in addition to electric buses at the airport.
Continued Emphasis on Efficient City Operations
• Establishes a new Organizational Improvement Team to identify opportunities for streamlining operations, improving service delivery and customer satisfaction beginning with the new Contracting and Procurement Department and CLT Development Center.
• Elevates Charlotte Business INClusion and the General Services Procurement Division into the new Contracting and Procurement Department to optimize cohesion and expertise within these core services.
• Realigns Animal Care and Control services from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department to the Department of General Services to allow Animal Care and Control to more directly benefit from the general services department’s administrative strength and non-sworn perspective for non-sworn services.
Learn more about these and other important initiatives of the proposed FY 2026 budget online.
REGIONAL
Veteran maestro takes conductor role for Opera Carolina
CHARLOTTE – Maestro Stefano Vignati has taken on the role of music director and principal conductor for Opera Carolina.
Vignati, whose career spans nearly three decades, joined Opera Carolina in 2022. He debuted in Charlotte in 2023 conducting Mozart’s “The Marriage of Figaro,” a collaboration with the International Lyric Academy.
In his new role, Vignati will conduct at least one mainstage production per season and will play a key role in shaping the musical direction of the company.
“I am honored to be appointed music director and principal conductor of Opera Carolina,” Vignati said. “It is a privilege to work alongside this visionary team and to contribute to the company’s bright future.”
Vignati is set to return to the podium for a new production of Puccini’s double bill, “Suor Angelica” and
“Gianni Schicchi,” to open the 2026 season. With a repertoire of more than 60 operas and an extensive symphonic catalog, Vignati has conducted across Italy, Switzerland, the U.S., Canada, Bulgaria, China, Serbia, Germany, Slovenia, the Republic of Macedonia, Croatia and Russia. In the past two years, he has led performances with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra and the St. Petersburg Philharmonic.
“I am excited to continue to work alongside and learn from such a tremendously talented artist,” said Shanté Williams, general director of Opera Carolina. “Maestro Vignati has delighted audiences around the world, and it has been a joy to watch him carry out the work that we value at Opera Carolina, developing the next generation of Opera talent and patrons. His cultivation of artists as young as 7 and as seasoned as 70 will help usher us into our next 75 years.”
Looking ahead, Vignati
The Happy Fits singer: ‘The
heart always finds a way to win’
CHARLOTTE – The Happy Fits announced a worldwide tour this year, including a Nov. 2 stop at The Underground.
The indie/rock group just released a new single “Everything You Do” along with a new video.
“I read somewhere that the amount of married U.S. adults dropped from 67% in 1990 to 53% today,” frontman Calvin Langman said. “At the same time, over 50% of millennials are taking on multiple jobs and ‘polyworking.’
“I’m no data scientist, but why is it so damn expensive to be in a relationship these days? Maybe it’s just my social circles and algorithm, but there’s a shared feeling amongst the hoi polloi of being overworked, underpaid and underloved. It’s not that we don’t want to be in relationships, it’s just that we simply can not a ord to love. ‘Everything You Do’ is my own internal battle of ghting for my heart vs. being practical and rational. Knowing me, the heart always nds a way to win.”
Since their 2018 debut, e Happy Fits have released three studio albums and generated 300 million streams.
May 9
• Amos’ Southend: Honestav
• Char Bar No. 7 (Mint Hill): Jay Mathey
• Evening Muse: The Brothers Gillespie; Elijah Cruise
• Great Wagon Road Distillery: Carrie Ann
• OMB Ballantyne: Rich and Single
• OMB LoSo: Knights of Flannel
• Ovens Auditorium: Victor Manuelle
• The Amp Ballantyne: Journeyman
• The Courthouse Self-Pour Beer & Wine: Chance Howland
• The Fillmore: Grentperez
• The Trail House: Don’t Blink
• The Underground: Grentperez
• Visulite Theatre: Runaway Gin
May 10
• Bank of America Stadium: Billy Joel & Sting
• Bojangles Coliseum: Joe, Musiq Soulchild and Eric Benét
• Dowd Center Theatre: September
• Evening Muse: Austin McNeill; 3rd Street
will also represent Opera Carolina as music director at international venues.
His future engagements include: 2 Concerts at the New York City Opera (June), Verdi’s “Falstaff” at Teatro Comunale di Vicenza (August), Verdi’s “La traviata” at the Taormina Opera Festival (August), Bizet’s “Carmen” at the New York City Opera (September), Mascagni’s “L’Amico Fritz” at the Festival Mascagni in Livorno (September) and 2 Concerts with the Orchestra Sinfonica del Friuli Venezia Giulia (July).
“Opera Carolina has a rich history of artistic excellence and I am looking forward to the dawning of this new era,” said Carol Kendrick, chair of the Opera Carolina’s board of directors. “Maestro Vignati becomes the rst Italian (naturalized in the U.S.) to hold this prestigious position in Opera Carolina’s 75-year history.”
Band and The Great Indoors
• Grapes Bistro and Wine Bar: Josey Wails
• Home Brew Taproom & Tunes: J&J Duo
• Local Logic: Adam Daniels
• Mary O’Neill’s Irish Pub: The Leftoverz
• Moochies Tavern: Dusk Till Dawn
• Neighborhood Theatre: Perpetual Groove
• OMB Ballantyne: Motel Soap
• OMB LoSo: Barnstormers
• Middle James Brewing: Beth Gatlin
• Moochies Tavern: Hardwired
• Neighborhood Theatre: The Connells
• OMB Ballantyne: Knights of Flannel
• Peddlers Paradise Bartique: Adam Daniels
• PNC Music Pavilion: Billy Idol
• Stooges Pub & Grub: The Deep Shallow Band
• Symphony Park: Sol Fusion & Simplified Trio
• PNC Music Pavilion: Primus, Puscifer & A
Perfect Circle
• Stooges Pub & Grub: Little Johnny Trailer
Trash
• The Amp Ballantyne: Michael Franti & Spearhead
• The Courthouse Self-Pour Beer & Wine:
Dylan Ray
• The Trail House: Static Pool
• The Underground: G-Eazy
• Visulite Theatre: Love It To Death
May 11
• Home Brew Taproom & Tunes: Nate
Randall
• Neighborhood Theatre: Five for Fighting
• Ovens Auditorium: Kenny G
• The Fillmore: Jacquees & Dej Loaf
• The Underground: Malcolm Todd
• The Union Exchange: Carrie Ann
May 12
• Amos’ Southend: Psychedelic Porn
Crumpets
• Evening Muse: Open mic
• Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre: Sturgill
Simpson
May 13
• Bank of America Stadium: Shakira
• Neighborhood Theatre: GA-20 + Zach
Person
• PNC Music Pavilion: Pierce the Veil
• Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre: Sturgill
Simpson
• The Underground: Arch Enemy North
May 14
• Evening Muse: Peter & Brendan Mayer
• Peddlers Paradise Bartique: Open mic
• The Amp Ballantyne: Yacht Rock Revue
• The Fillmore: The Crane Wives
• The Trail House: Pluto for Planet Duo
• The Underground: Memphis May Fire
May 15
• Amos’ Southend: Dollar Signs
• Char Bar No. 7 (Mint Hill): Mark Pelfrey
• Evening Muse: Eliot Bronson
• Neighborhood Theatre: The Bones of J.R.
Jones
• Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre: Teddy
Swims
• Symphony Park: On the Border & Landslide
• The Amp Ballantyne: Wilco
• The Underground: Pop Evil
• Visulite Theatre: Brett Dennen
May 16
• Amos’ Southend: Ride the Lightning
• Char Bar No. 7 (Mint Hill): Remington
Cartee
• Evening Muse: bodie
ª Franklin Court Grille: Dose of Ocean
• Grapes Bistro and Wine Bar: Matthew
Ablan
• Mac’s Speed Shop (Matthews): Nowcat
• Mary O’Neill’s Irish Pub: Analog Crash
• The Fillmore: Marilyn Manson
• The Trail House: Coconut Groove Band
• Visulite Theatre: Joe May
Live Music Venues
Charlotte
• Amos’ Southend: 1423 S. Tryon St.
• Bojangles Coliseum: 2700 E. Independence Blvd.
• Bank of America Stadium: 800 S. Mint St.
• Evening Muse: 3227 N. Davidson St.
• Neighborhood Theatre: 511 E. 36th St.
• OMB Ballantyne: 15025 Bowl St.
• OMB LoSo: 4150 Yancey Road
• Ovens Auditorium: 2700 E. Independence Blvd.
• PNC Music Pavilion: 707 Pavilion Blvd.
• Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre: 1000 NC Music Factory Blvd.
• Symphony Park: 4400 Sharon Road
• The Amp Ballantyne: 11115 Upper Ave.
• The Fillmore: 820 Hamilton St.
• The Underground: 820 Hamilton St.
• Visulite Theatre: 1615 Elizabeth Ave.
Indian Trail
• Grapes Bistro and Wine Bar: 6461 Old Monroe Road
• The Trail House: 6751 Old Monroe Road
Matthews
• Mac’s Speed Shop (Matthews): 142 E. John St.
Mint Hill
• Char Bar No. 7: 7312 Town View Drive
• Stooges Pub & Grub: 13230 Albemarle Road
Monroe
• Americana Beer Co.: 222 N. Main St.
• Dowd Center Theatre:
ª Franklin Court Grille: 232 E. Franklin St.
• Home Brew Taproom & Tunes: 215 S. Main St.
• Iron Thunder Saloon & Grill: 608 W. Roosevelt Ave.
• Local Logic: 128 S. Main St.
• Peddlers Paradise Bartique: 105 W. Franklin St.
• The Courthouse Self-Pour Beer & Wine: 217 N. Hayne St.
• The Union Exchange: 2022 New Town Road
Pineville
• Middle James Brewing: 400 N. Polk St.
Stallings
• Moochies Tavern: 15054 Idlewild Road Waxhaw
• Great Wagon Road Distillery: 122 W. North Main St.
• Mary O’Neill’s Irish Pub: 116 W. North Main St.
Maestro Stefano Vignati has conducted music all over the world.
Photo courtesy of Opera Carolina
The past year, The Happy Fits saw the addition of two new members: guitarists Raina Mullen (formerly of Ghost Light and American Babies) and Nico Rose (formerly of The Gooms). Anna Koblish photo
Now Accepting Reservations
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DESIGNED FOR COMFORT AND CONNECTION
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MORE TIME FOR WHAT MATTERS MOST
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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.
