The 06-27-2025 Edition of The Charlotte Weekly South Charlotte
by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com
CHARLOTTE – CharlotteMecklenburg Schools leaders are proud of what the district accomplished during the 2024-25 school year and are excited about what’s ahead for 2025-26.
District leaders shared highlights from the previous year and next steps for its strategic plan on June 23.
Beth ompson, chief of strategy and innovation, said the district
focused on these ve key areas for student success in the rst year of implementing its ve-year strategic plan:
• Pay better: Competitive pay to attract and keep great teachers.
• Train smarter: Fast, effective training to grow strong educators.
• Keep our talent: Support and value teachers so they stay in CMS.
• Safe and welcoming schools: Clean, secure and caring environments for students and sta .
• Top tech tools: Modern technology for students and teachers.
Thompson said that the public
by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com
MATTHEWS – Town leaders have expressed concerns with Matthews Alive organizers about changes to the Labor Day Weekend festival, including tweaks to the parade route and how proceeds are distributed to nonprofits.
e town has a vested interest in Matthews Alive, having contributed $37,132 to the festival this past fiscal year. Former Town Manager Becky Hawke recommended before her departure increasing that by 10% to $40,935.
Festival organizers updated commissioners June 23 on this year’s event, scheduled for Aug. 29 to Sept. 1. Mayor John Higdon told organizers that commissioners would be voting on the festival allocation at their next meeting.
“I can say that just because this festival has been around in its current form for 30 years and 20 years before that, that even a change like changing the parade route is going to be very controversial,” Higdon told organizers. “I’m sure
CHARLOTTE – Panda Fest will highlight the food, arts and traditions of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities through interactive experiences and live performances.
The panda-themed cultural celebration takes place Sept. 14 to 16 at Ballantyne’s Backyard.
Created by the founders of Dragon Fest, Panda Fest began as a one-day pop-up event, "Panda Day," that gained popularity for its panda-themed food, games and cultural programming.
After selling out in cities like Atlanta, Boston, Philadelphia and Seattle, the festival is now expanding into a multi-city, multi-day celebration with Charlotte added to the schedule.
“We’re thrilled to bring Panda Fest to
will hear how well these strategies worked with the state’s release of 2024-25 school year data in September. She said the district will continue to build on a successful 2024-25.
“We'll be focusing on getting even better at using continuous improvement to identify what students need even faster so that we can address those needs as quickly as possible,” Th ompson said. “In short, we're going to keep getting better and better—continuous improvement for endless possibilities.”
Deputy Superintendent Melissa
you’re aware of that. There’s going to be a lot of people that don’t like it because since they were kids and people my age were kids, they’ve been doing the same parade route for the last 50 years.”
Brian Lee, a board member for the festival, said the parade will come down Trade Street, turn right onto West John Street and continue toward Christ Covenant Lane to disembark at Christ Covenant Church. The parade has traditionally continued along Trade Street until participants disembark at Matthews United Methodist Church.
“We are offering a safer disembarkment for our parade participants,” Lee said. “They are going to be able to disembark and break down their floats on a closed street. ey will also, when they are picked up, be able to reenter traffic safely and not have to cross this year.”
Lee said the route change maintains the festival footprint and prevents the parade from having bottlenecks around Matthews Elementary School.
Matthews Alive organizers also proposed allowing nonpro ts not associated with the operations
Charlotte,” said BiuBiu Xu, founder of Panda Fest. “This event is all about building community through shared experiences, whether that’s enjoying incredible food, discovering new art forms or just having fun. We’re especially excited to feature both traveling vendors from across the country and amazing local talent to create a one-of-a-kind cultural experience.”
Guests can explore more than 70 food vendors and food trucks o ering 300-plus dishes from China, Japan, Korea, Th ailand, Vietnam and beyond.
In addition to the food, attendees can browse a curated marketplace of 20-plus vendors o ering crafts, clothing, accessories and artisan goods inspired by Asian heritage.
CMS shares progress on strategic plan
Balknight shared some accomplishments achieved by students this year:
• 9,898 students earned diplomas and 289 graduates completed associate degrees while in high school.
• 11,621 high school students took Advanced Placement courses.
• Students earned more than 6,900 industry-recognized credentials.
• 30 individual and state championships were won in sports, including Ardrey Kell women’s soccer.
• CMS was recognized as an Academically and Intellectually Gifted
Town leaders bring up concerns with Matthews Alive organizers
of the festival to get a cut of the proceeds. Traditionally, proceeds have been split among nonpro ts that have volunteered at the festival.
Lee told commissioners that groups will have to apply for a donation through the festival’s website. That process will go live in a few weeks. He said this helps groups that previously were unable to participate due not not having a large group of volunteers.
Commissioner John Urban told Lee that he had heard from a couple of nonpro ts concerned about this particular change. Urban compared it to handing out welfare.
“ e purpose of Matthews Alive is for the nonprofits to be giving back to the community,” Urban said. “They put their time and talent on the line to do that and they supported this community because they loved it.”
Urban also took issue with the change in parade route and the removal of children’s inflatables, adding that these changes felt abrupt.
Lee said festival organizers identified fixed costs
Story continues, see MATTHEWS page 3A
Panda Fest puts focus on Asian food, culture
Traditional arts like calligraphy, sugar painting and paper cutting will be featured alongside modern K-pop dance routines, lion dances and theatrical performances.
Festival-goers can also expect Instagram-worthy installations like a 15-foot inflatable panda, a panda bounce ring, themed treats, souvenirs and games galore.
Want to go?
Panda Fest takes place from 3 to 9 p.m. Sept. 12, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sept. 13 and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sept. 14 at Ballantyne’s Backyard, 11611 N. Community House Road, Charlotte. Tickets go on sale June 25 at www.pandafests.com.
Promising District, while 12 schools were named Capturing Kids’ Hearts National Showcase Schools and nine schools received Magnet Schools of America Merit Awards.
“I would be surprised if you could nd any employee or student in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools who would say they haven't been asked to do something ambitious this past school year,” Superintendent Crystal Hill said. “And I would also think each of those people would also say that our students are better off thanks to their amazing efforts.”
Charlotte’s UDO helps deliver affordable duplex
CHARLOTTE – Habitat for Humanity of the Charlotte Region celebrated a new milestone in affordable housing June 21, thanks to support from the City of Charlotte’s Unified Development Ordinance. Habitat welcomed a firsttime homebuyer to 2510 Toddville Road, the organization’s first duplex built by right under the UDO. The new home was made possible through the density bonus provision, which allows additional housing units on a single parcel without the need for rezoning.
“ is is exactly the kind of outcome the Charlotte Future 2040 Plan and the adopted UDO were designed to support,” said Monica Holmes, interim planning, development and design director. “By providing greater flexibility in how we use land, the UDO makes it easier to create a variety of housing types and increase affordability in neighborhoods throughout our city.”
Under the previous zoning rules, the Toddville Road lot could have supported only one market-rate home. Through the UDO’s by-right duplex option, Habitat was able to build two affordable homes instead, reducing per-unit costs and increasing the city’s affordable housing supply.
“Charlotte's new UDO has been instrumental for Habitat for Humanity of the Charlotte Region in allowing the affiliate to serve more families with additional housing types in a wider range of neighborhoods,” said Jennifer Morell, land acquisition and development director. “Specifically, the ability to build duplexes in single-family neighborhoods has enabled the affiliate to offer more homeownership opportunities in areas of Charlotte where land values are typically cost prohibitive.”
The June 21 event included a walking tour of Legacy Vista, a nearby 14-home development under construction. Legacy Vista is being developed by Habitat for Humanity of the Charlotte Region and received support from the city’s Housing Trust Fund. The project features five duplex buildings and four single-family homes and also leverages UDO incentives, including the former conservation subdivision bonus.
NEWS BRIEFS
Sustain Charlotte applauds transportation bill news
CHARLOTTE – Shannon Binns, executive director of Sustain Charlotte, described the N.C. House’s 102-6 vote on the local option sales tax bill as a historic moment for Mecklenburg County.
“After more than five years of tireless advocacy, negotiation and collaboration, we are nally within reach of allowing our community to vote on the kind of transportation system we need and deserve,” Binns said. “We are deeply grateful to Rep. Tricia Cotham for her leadership, to the members of our local delegation, and to the full House for supporting this critical legislation.”
Sustain Charlotte acknowledged the bill limits funding for rail transit to 40% instead of the amount needed to fund the Silver Line to Matthews and a Blue Line extension to Ballantyne.
“We will continue to advocate for additional resources to extend the Silver Line and ensure that more communities – especially those historically underserved – can bene t from rail in addition to the major bus and road improvements the sales tax would fund,” the nonprofit said.
CATS announces service changes
CHARLOTTE – e Charlotte Area Transit System will adjust routes July 7 as part of a routine service change.
CATS will adjust schedules on several routes to help improve the reliability of service: Route 4 (Belmont), Route 8 (Tuckaseegee Road), Route 11 (North Tryon Street), Route 12 (South Boulevard), Route 14 (Providence Road), Route 15 (Randolph Road), Route 17 (Commonwealth), Route 18 (Paw Creek), Route 23 (Shamrock Drive), Route 26 (Oaklawn Avenue) and Blue Line. Route 24 (Nations Ford Road) will run every 30 minutes on weekdays.
CATS will retire the North Mecklenburg Village Rider and the Davidson Shuttle (routes 97, 98, 99 and route 290) services. Riders will transition to CATS Micro, the newly launched on-demand public shared-ride service.
CATS will also discontinue
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Route 47x (Huntersville Greenhouse) due to low ridership.
McGinn announces run District 42 Senate seat
CHARLOTTE – Stacie McGinn plans to run for the District 42 N.C. Senate seat.
After falling short by just 209 votes in 2024, McGinn enters the 2026 race with renewed energy, strong grassroots support and over $300,000 on hand.
McGinn is a former attorney,nancial executive and community organizer. Her campaign will focus on lowering the cost of living, empowering parents in education and keeping communities safe.
“Last cycle, we built a broad coalition of voters and came within 209 votes of ipping this seat,” McGinn said. “We’re coming back stronger, and I’m more con dent than ever that we can win – and deliver the results our district deserves.”
Campaign to boost solar energy and battery installation
CHARLOTTE – Solarize Charlotte-Mecklenburg, a new campaign aimed at making solar energy and battery power more a ordable and accessible, was set to launch on June 25.
The campaign, which runs through October, is the work of a partnership by the City of Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, the Town of Davidson and Centralina Regional Council.
e campaign will continue with free enrollment until Oct. 31. e deadline for residential contracts to be signed is Dec. 31. e commercial contract deadline is March 31, 2026. e goal is for all installations to be complete by April 15, 2026.
Goodwill opens brick-andmortar donation site
CHARLOTTE – A Goodwill donation drop-o site has returned to Myers Park.
Residents can donate their gently used items at Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont’s first brick-and-mortar donation location in the Charlotte region. is new location, 813 Providence Road, features a drive-up donation door, making it easier for residents to donate clothes, shoes, household items and electronics. Drop-off hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays.
Donors with large furniture items should visit a Goodwill retail store. Schedule a pickup online at www.goodwillsp.org or call 704-323-5741.
Goodwill uses the revenue generated from the sale of donations to help people nd jobs.
$2M grant to expand school-based therapy to rural counties
CHARLOTTE – Children living in rural areas of North Carolina will have greater access to mental health care through a $2.08 million grant from e Leon Levine Foundation.
The grant expands Atrium
CRTPO
Health’s School-Based erapy Program to serve K-12 students in ve rural counties.
e program will address barriers to mental health care experienced by residents in rural communities, including students in Title I schools who come from lower income families.
Atrium Health’s School-Based erapy Program \is powered by 33-plus licensed therapists who offer more than 8,500 in-person and 12,000 virtual therapy sessions each year.
Chaplains deploy to flooded area
WHEELING, W.Va. – e Billy Graham Rapid Response Team deployed chaplains to serve Ohio County, West Virginia, where several inches of rain fell in under an hour on June 14, resulting in ash ooding across the region.
“The Billy Graham Rapid Response Team is sending crisis-trained chaplains to share the love of Jesus Christ with those who have gone through this ood, to let them know there is hope to be found even in the most di cult times,” said Josh Holland, international director.
e team deploys to natural disasters in coordination with Samaritan’s Purse, the Christian disaster relief organization also headed by Franklin Graham. Together, the ministries will address the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of impacted homeowners.
On the web: BillyGraham.org/ RRT
Charlotte opens applications for Creative Growth Grants
CHARLOTTE – The City of Charlotte has opened applications for the 2025 Creative Growth Grants.
The initiative is designed to fuel local talent, celebrate culture and support people making art in neighborhoods. e grants support projects, training and operational needs that align with the Charlotte Arts and Culture Plan. ree types of grants are available, ranging from $2,500 to $25,000, for grassroots arts nonprofits and creatives living and working in Mecklenburg County. Apply by 5 p.m. Aug. 4. Visit CLTgov.me/CGG for details.
“ ese grants are re ective of the city's ongoing and eager support of Charlotte's creative community,” Mayor Vi Lyles said. “We are committed to strengthening our arts and culture ecosystem and fueling the creativity that exists in every corner of the Queen City.”
NCHSAA recognizes smart teams GREENSBORO – e NCHSAA Scholar Athlete Program recognizes athletes with a GPA of 3.5 or higher as well as teams that total an unweighted team GPA of 3.1 or higher for its semester of competition.
The NCHSAA, thanks to a partnership with the Governor's
CHARLOTTE – The Charlotte Regional Transportation Planning Organization has opened a 30-day public comment period for the 2055 Metropolitan Transportation Plan Draft Fiscally Constrained Project List.
e CRTPO approved the release of the project list June 18. e public comment period is open through July 19.
e project list and opportunities for public comment can be viewed at 2055mtp.org.
e 2055 Metropolitan Transportation Plan is a scally constrained plan that spans a 30-year horizon.
e Federal Highway Administration requires the CRTPO to update its Metropolitan Transportation Plan every four years to de ne the plans, programs and policies to provide mobility choices throughout Iredell, Mecklenburg and Union counties.
e Metropolitan Transportation Plan identies recommendations for surface transportation,
Highway Safety Program, provides case prizes to the teams in each sport that have the highest unweighted GPAs in the state and participate in the program.
Local teams recognized included:
• Weddington High School won for men’s lacrosse (3.645 GPA).
• Central Academy Of Technology won for men’s indoor track (3.83 GPA).
Tillis announces $21.5M grant for airport
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator om Tillis (R-NC) said he secured a $21,500,000 grant for Charlotte Douglas International Airport to construct a new 10,000foot runway to reduce delays and accommodate more aircraft operations.
e grant comes from the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Improvement Program for Fiscal Year 2025.
“Charlotte Douglas continues to be one of the busiest airports in the world, and as air tra c increases, we must work to ensure airplanes have minimal delays,” Tillis said.
“This grant to construct a new 10,000-foot runway will significantly reduce congestion, improve operations and enhance the overall travel experience for millions of passengers who rely on Charlotte as transportation hub.”
Charlotte unveils
stormwater education mural
CHARLOTTE – Charlotte-Mecklenburg Storm Water Services installed its rst sidewalk mural focused on stormwater education June 13 to 21 along Beatties Ford Road near the Rosa Parks Place Transit Center.
Artist Jamil Dyair Steele created the 80-foot mural. It will illustrate how pollution travels through storm drains into streams and o ers tips to protect streams and lakes.
“It’s a powerful way to make environmental stewardship both visible and engaging in a high-trafc community space,” said Craig Miller, municipal stormwater permit supervisor.
e project is part of Charlotte’s Placemaking Hub Program, which uses public art to enhanced shared spaces.
Nonprofit hosting charity swim at speedway
CHARLOTTE – Swim Across America and CLASH Endurance will host a charity swim Dec. 7 in Lake Lloyd, located within the infield of Daytona International Speedway.
Participants can swim one mile or a 100-meter Dolphin Dash alongside Olympians to raise funds for pediatric cancer research. Proceeds bene t Swim Across America’s research grants and e NASCAR Foundation.
“To have a Swim Across America charity event in Daytona on the CLASH Endurance Family Weekend means we will make even bigger strides together in the ght against cancer,” said Rob Butcher,
including streets and roads; transit corridors; and bicycle and pedestrian facilities.
Projects approved for inclusion in the 2055 Metropolitan Transportation Plan must demonstrate that they can be implemented using committed or anticipated revenues.
e project list is an important part of the plan, as it outlines the transportation projects proposed to be funded over the life of the Metropolitan Transportation Plan.
e active transportation component of the Metropolitan Transportation Plan identi es corridors that may bene t from future bicycle/pedestrian projects. is process does not prioritize or commit funding to the active transportation corridors.
Approval of the 2055 Metropolitan Transportation Plan is scheduled for March 2026. e public comment period for the 2055 MTP Draft Fiscally Constrained Project List will close at 5 p.m. July 19.
CEO of Swim Across America. Register at swimacrossamerica. org/daytona.
Student Achievements
• Lauren Bell of Pineville, earned a Bachelor of Science in Applied Management-Instructional Technology, Training and Evaluation from Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, Illinois.
• Wesley Bowles, of Matthews, made the spring dean's list at LeTourneau University in Longview, Texas for earning a GPA between 3.5 and 3.99. Wesley majors in aeronautical science.
• Cayce Egan, of Weddington, graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia.
• Morgan Murchison, of Charlotte, made the spring dean’s list at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in Madison, Wisconsin. Morgan is in law school.
• Ananya Rao, of Waxhaw, made the spring dean’s list at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in Madison, Wisconsin. Ananya is in the College of Letters and Science.
• Bethany Snow, of Waxhaw, made the spring dean's list at LeTourneau University in Longview, Texas for earning a GPA between 3.5 and 3.99. Bethany majors in computer science and engineering technology.
• Nicholas Tarkhan-Mouravi, of Mint Hill, graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia.
Quick Hits
• Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools said its 9,898 graduates earned 2,012 scholarships totaling $91,683,186.
• Samantha Freiberg, of East Mecklenburg High, was named CMS Outstanding Secondary Math Teacher for 2024-25. Other nalists were Ranilo Perez (Albemarle Road Middle) and Jennifer George (Rocky River High).
• Cotswold Elementary School students will attend Billingsville Elementary until the new Cotswold campus is completed. It will open August 2027.
• CATS created awareness about rail safety and preventing accidents around railways and track crossings as part of Rail Safety Week from June 16 to 22.
• Corey King, parks and recreation director for Matthews, has been appointed president of the Kiwanis Club of Matthews for 2025-26.
• The SouthPark Skipper rideshare program will continue next year, according to SouthPark's Facebook page (@southparkclt).
• Turning Point said its shelter needed more olive oil, canned potatoes, sugar, gallon-sized tea bags and canned carrots.
• The Mineral Springs Volunteer Fire & Rescue Department responded to three res on June 22, including a brush re o Waxhaw Highway and a structure re.
Residents may provide comments in the following ways:
• Email: email@crtpo.org (include “2055 MTP” in the subject line of your email)
• Mail: CRTPO, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center, 600 E. Fourth St., 8th oor, Charlotte, NC 28202
• Verbal comments can be provided during the July 16 and Aug. 20 CRTPO board meetings. Meetings are held at the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center, 600 E. Fourth St., room 267, Charlotte, beginning at 6 p.m. ose who wish to speak must sign up at least ve minutes prior to the start of the meeting.
CRTPO sta will be attending several community events across the planning area to answer questions and collect feedback, including June 28 at Union County Farmers Market and July 11 at Charlotte Eagles Block Party.
Visit 2055mtp.org for the list of dates and locations.
and insurance liabilities that could be removed to increase overall revenue for nonprofits. He said his group was happy to continue discussing it.
Organizers have also come up with speci c roles for volunteers. People interested in volunteering at the festival can email volunteerMatthewsAlive@gmail.com.
Hidgon mentioned that former Town Manager Becky Hawke had sent the Matthews Alive board a list of 12 questions/conditions before she resigned.
Higdon asked Lee about each of those conditions, which included a commitment to get annual audits, le taxes properly, determine more effective means for communicating changes and accepting feedback from the public, and recruit replacements for board members to ensure continuity.
Lee compared the Matthews Alive board to a special events company as members are hands on in the delivery of the event. He said the board has been streamlined over the years.
“It demands more than just interest. It demands time,” Lee said. “ We estimated roughly ballpark each one of us puts in probably over 700 hours directly related to the event, running the event, breaking down the event.”
Outside of the parade
route, the layout of the 2025 festival will not change. is year’s festival will feature 23 food vendors, 90% of which are small businesses from the Matthews area, as well as 152 vendors in the Small Shops area.
Main Stage entertainment will include The Carolina Barnburners and Band of Oz on Friday; The Tina Turner Tribute on Saturday; Don Jovi on Sunday; and Castaways and Y2K Kids on Monday.
e Matthews Community Center will also be packed with indoor entertainment, including a quilt show, fiber craft demonstrations, woodworking groups, basket weavers and the In nite Turtles Robotics Group. Fullwood eatre will also have indoor performances while the Matthews Artist Guild will display artwork in its gallery.
e festival will feature entertainment for kids, including a children’s stage, small children’s rides, kids’ small shops vendors and hijinks from Curly the Clown. One new children’s attraction is the PNC Mobile Learning Adventure, a 40-by-50-foot interactive exhibit for ages 0-5.
Novant Health will continue serving as he presenting sponsor. Several other companies are sponsoring the event, including Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly. On the web: matthewsalive.org
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Chess
June 27
Family Storytime
Families engage in literacy activities during Family Storytime at South County Regional Library. Get a ticket at the children’s desk 15 minutes before the program. cmlibrary.org/locations/ south-county-regional
10-10:30 a.m.; 5801 Rea Road, Charlotte
Outdoor Concert
Longleaf performs a concert during the Promenade on Providence’s Music on the Green. e series takes place on Fridays and Saturdays. promenadeonprovidence.com
7-10 p.m.; 10844 Providence Road, Charlotte
June 28
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
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 at cmlibrary.org/locations/ SouthPark-Regional.
11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte
Preteesn and teens play chess at South County Regional Library. cmlibrary.org/locations/ south-county-regional
2:15-3:45 p.m.; 5801 Rea Road, Charlotte
Conversation Club
Adults practice English during an English Conversation Club at SouthPark Regional Library. Register in advance at cmlibrary.org/locations/ SouthPark-Regional.
3-4:30 p.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte
June 30
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/ SouthPark-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 literacy activities during Family Storytime at South County Regional Library. Get a ticket at the children’s desk 15 minutes before the program. cmlibrary.org/locations/ south-county-regional 10-10:30 or 11-11:30 a.m.; 5801 Rea 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
Baby Storytime Children ages 0-2 listen to stories and songs during Baby Storytime at SouthPark Regional Library. Check in at the children’s desk when you arrive. cmlibrary.org/locations/ SouthPark-Regional 11-11:30 a.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte
LEGO Drop-In Children ages 5-12 build with LEGOs at Pineville Library. cmlibrary.org/ locations/Pineville
2-3 p.m.; 505 Main St., Pineville
401(k) Seminar Leslie Arreaza, of Truliant Federal Credit Union, explains 401(k) plans during The 411 on 401(k) at South County Regional Library. Register in advance at cmlibrary.org/locations/ south-county-regional.
2-3:30 p.m.; 5801 Rea Road, Charlotte
K-Pop Trivia
South County Regional Library hosts K-Pop Trivia in-person and on Zoom. cmlibrary.org/locations/ south-county-regional.
6-7 p.m.; 5801 Rea Road, Charlotte
July 1
Baby Storytime Children ages 0-2 listen to stories and songs during Baby Storytime at Pineville Library. Pick up a ticket at the front desk 15 minutes before the event starts. cmlibrary.org/locations/Pineville
9:30-10 a.m.; 505 Main St., Pineville
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/ SouthPark-Regional 9:30-10 a.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte
Conversation Club
Adults practice speaking Portuguese during Portuguese Conversation Club at South County Regional Library. cmlibrary.org/locations/ south-county-regional 10-11 a.m.; 5801 Rea Road, Charlotte
Family Storytime Families engage in literacy activities during Family Storytime at South County Regional Library. Get a ticket at the children’s desk 15 minutes before the program. cmlibrary.org/locations/ south-county-regional 10-10:30 a.m.; 5801 Rea 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 or 11-11:30 a.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte
Baby Storytime Children ages 0-2 engage in stories and songs during Baby Storytime at South County Regional Library. Registration at the children’s desk starts 15 minutes before the program. cmlibrary.org/locations/ south-county-regional 11-11:30 a.m.; 5801 Rea Road, Charlotte
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REGIONAL
Author writes guide to preserving historical structures
CHARLOTTE – Every town has at least one property with an aging original structure that has been abandoned or neglected and needs a little love.
Beth Yarbrough, a preservation enthusiast, is sharing her personal passion to return these structures to their former state of glory with her new book, “ e Grassroots Guide to Saving What Matters: Historic Preservation for Everyday People.”
“Many old houses simply die from lack of knowledge,” Yarbrough said. “We lose a lot
of our best old places because a homeowner is not aware that there is preservation help available. Even within many communities and municipal and county governments, there is not much awareness or sometimes misunderstanding about private and public preservation tools that are already in place, much less any knowledge of how to access and utilize that help.”
Yarbrough provides a layperson’s roadmap through the building preservation landscape, o ering tips to anyone looking to protect
I stopped going the wrong way on the one-way
By Tony Marciano Contributor
I grew up on a street that was narrow but two-way. Parking was on one side of the street. It was interesting watching two cars coming in opposite directions trying to get around each other and the parked cars.
e city decided to make our street oneway. ey said it was just for a time to test it. at’s similar to when your parents say, “I’ll think about it.” Your parents already decided “no.” ey just don’t want to deal with your temper tantrum when you nally hear the words, “No and that’s nal.”
at’s what the city did to my childhood street. What was a brief experiment to see if it improved things turned into a forever decision. Last year, I drove past my childhood home. It’s still on a one-way street.
I must admit the city was right in making it one-way. For whatever reason, parking was on the left. Parking was in front of my house. It made it easy to make the wide swing into the driveway.
I got used to life on a one-way street. When we played ball games in the street, we only had to worry about cars coming from one direction, not two. When it did come, you yelled, “car” and everyone stepped o the street until the car passed. Manhole covers were home and second base. e re hydrant was third base and across from that was rst base.
While I enjoyed living on a one-way street, I don’t enjoy the one-way street I live on at this stage of my life. No, I’m not talking about the physical street I live on. My current house ends in a cul-de-sac, so it has to be two way. I’m talking about the relationships in my life that are one-way – not two-way.
street
ere are a number of relationships I have that I am the one always doing the initiating. I’m the one who makes the call. We have a great call. Sometimes for an hour. But I always make the call. Others it’s about getting together. en you get the silence (or ghosting) as it is called today. Nothing. I wait for them to get back to me. Silence. Over the past few weeks, I wrote down the number of relationships that I have initiated. I propose dates to meet. Silence. I’ve come to realize that I was lessening the value (or can I say, “cheapening”) my worth in the eyes of the other by following up with and proposing dates to get together. One situation apologized after a month for not getting back to me and then said, “I’ll get right back to you with some dates.” Silence. My normal style is to respond with, “I look forward to hearing from you.” Instead, I didn’t respond. Early April, I discussed catching up with an out-oftown friend in mid-May. We discussed some possible dates. ose dates came and went. I didn’t remind him of our get-together.
ere is a phrase that has helped guide me that says, “ e person who wants the relationship the least owns it.” It’s why I chased that girl in seventh grade and she ran from me. When I stopped chasing her and walked away, she started chasing me. I’ve come to realize that I will initiate the meeting with the idea but then the ball is in the other person’s court. If they get back to me, “great.” If they don’t, “great.” I don’t need someone else’s acceptance. I am fully accepted by God and that is all I need. I’ll be back soon. Until then, live well my friend.
e Rev. Tony Marciano is available to speak to your group. DM him on Facebook.
Alzheimer’s app connects people to resources
CHARLOTTE – The Alzheimer’s Association – Western Carolina Chapter is encouraging people affected by dementia in North Carolina to download its new My Alz Journey app.
e free app is aimed at helping newly diagnosed, early-stage individuals and their care partners navigate their journey with Alzheimer’s and other dementias.
“An Alzheimer’s or dementia diagnosis can be overwhelming and isolating,” said Katherine Lambert, CEO of Alzheimer’s Association – Western Carolina Chapter. “Our new app helps connect North Carolina families affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias to needed information and resources following a diagnosis. It provides personalized guidance, education, planning tools, interactive activities and local community resources.”
More than 7 million Americans live with Alzheimer’s disease, including more than 210,000 in North Carolina. A 2024 Alzheimer’s Association survey found 66% of dementia caregivers report di culty nding resources and support following a dementia diagnosis.
People living with dementia, including current and former members of the Alzheimer’s Association National Early Stage Advisory Group, were instrumental in the app’s development. ey identi ed the need for it, helped shape and test its content, and eventually named it.
Ideal for those who already enjoy using apps in their daily lives, My ALZ Journey features a simple design that guides users through a personalized experience. e Home screen offers a curated path with step-by-step guidance and resources that evolve over time to re ect the user’s journey. e app’s Library provides easy access to topic-based educational content from alz.org, answering common questions about Alzheimer’s, caregiving and planning for the future. Users can connect directly to the Alzheimer’s Association through the Community section, which highlights nearby support groups, events and programs. e Activity Center o ers interactive tools, planning resources and brain-stimulating activities to help users stay engaged and supported.
“We’re excited to have this new app to help our local families,” said Lambert. “In addition to connecting them to important disease-related information, we hope it will encourage their participation in the various local programs we o er. We want families a ected by Alzheimer’s and other dementia to know they are not alone.”
My ALZ Journey is available now for free in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Visit alz.org/MyALZJourney for more information. Visit alz.org/northcarolina or call a 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900 for more information about local programs, support groups and resources.
historic structures in their community. She realizes embarking on the journey to preservation can be daunting, especially when pieces of history are at risk. Finding the funds, applying for permits, following the rules and tracking down original features can quickly get overwhelming.
Sometimes it feels pointless but “the whole point of ‘ e Grassroots Guide’ is to inspire those who wish they could make a di erence and don’t realize that they actually can,” she said.
Yarbrough’s book allows those new to the
DINING SCORES
Health departments in Mecklenburg and Union counties inspected these restaurants from June 12 to 18: Charlotte (28209)
• 1900 Mexican Grill, 5110 Park Road – 93.5
• Anju Korean Dining & Bar, 1600 E. Woodlawn Road – 97 • Burton’s
Taipei South, 10106 Johnston Road – 91
Wolfman Pizza #1, 8504 Park Road – 98
Yafa Halal Market, 10703 Park Road – 96 Charlotte (28211)
topic to feel con dent in their ability to give a voice to old structures needing protection as they are guided through the work. After a decade of traveling the country and working to save endangered buildings, she’s poured her experiences with navigating the preservation landscape into an accessible format.
“ e Grassroots Guide to Saving What Matters” can be ordered on bookshop.org, Amazon, BarnesandNoble.com, warrenpublishing.net and wherever books are sold.
LIVE MUSIC
YouTube show touring major cities
CHARLOTTE – Gracie’s Corner Live: Gracie’s Global Adventure will bring the YouTube show’s songs, characters and educational magic to audiences across the country, including a stop at The Fillmore for two shows on Aug. 10.
The interactive tour will feature two performances in most cities, allowing more families to enjoy a high-energy show full of singing, dancing and learning alongside Gracie and her friends.
Created by Drs. Javoris and Arlene Gordon-Hollingsworth and starring their daughter Graceyn “Gracie” Hollingsworth, Gracie’s Corner was launched to celebrate inclusivity, cultural representation and educational empowerment through music. Since its debut, the series has garnered multiple NAACP Image Awards, a 2023 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice and 2025 BET Awards nomination for
BIZ BRIEFS
Aspen Dental opens new practice in Matthews
Graceyn. Buy tickets at livenation. com.
Recently announced shows
• Wild Rivers: July 15 at Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre
• The Thing With Feathers: Oct. 4 at The Evening Muse
• Twenty One Pilots: Oct. 8 at PNC Music Pavilion
• Stevie Nicks: Oct. 21 at Spectrum Center
• B-52s and Devo: Oct. 24 at PNC Music Pavilion
• Lenny Pearce: Oct. 29 at The Fillmore
June 27
• Amos’ Southend: The Reflex
• Char Bar No. 7 (Mint Hill): Nate Dowdy
• Evening Muse: Sons of Habit; Evergone with Over the Wire
• Franklin Court Grille: Dose of Ocean
• Grapes Bistro and Wine Bar: Carrie Ann
for customers.
MATTHEWS – Aspen Dental has opened a dental practice at 9727 East Independence Blvd.
The new office offers dental services, ranging from routine checkups to advanced treatments such as emergency dental care, dentures, implants, dental bridges, crowns, oral surgery and Motto Clear Aligners.
“My entire team is dedicated to ensuring that every patient is treated with the respect and compassion they deserve,” said Vanja Alagic, dentist and practice owner at Aspen Dental.
To make a dental appointment, patients can visit aspendental.com and click on Schedule a New Patient Appointment. They can also call 980-508-0185. Walk-ins are accepted.
“Oral health is the gateway to overall health, and Aspen Dental is all about breaking down the barriers to care for patients and communities,” said Shayan Jahanpanah, managing clinical director at Aspen Dental. “We’re here to help make affordable, quality care a part of our patients’ lives.”
Aspen Dental has a network of more than 1,100 offices, including locations in south Charlotte and Monroe.
Autobell Car Wash renovates
Monroe location
MONROE – Autobell Car Wash recently renovated its Monroe location at 536 Morgan Mill Road.
Originally opened in 1981, the car wash was closed for just under a month while undergoing updates designed to provide a smoother and faster premium car wash experience
• Mary O’Neill’s Irish Pub:
Analog Crash
• Moochies Tavern: Next
O’ Kin
• Neighborhood Theatre: Sunny War
• Peddlers Paradise
Bartique: Michael Hager
• PNC Music Pavilion: Summer of Loud
• Skyla Credit Union
Amphitheatre: Kansas & 38
Special
• Stooges Pub & Grub: Coconut Groove Band
• The Club House: Big Fun
June 28
• Amos’ Southend: Tell Me
Lies
• Evening Muse: Scott
Miller; John Maddrey
• Franklin Court Grille:
Dual Drive
• Local Logic: Parker
Thomas
• Moochies Tavern: Min-
utes Past Midnight
• Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre: Hauser
• Southern Range: Last
“With significant refurbishment and enhancements to the car wash structure and lot, including upgraded tunnel equipment and permanent vacuum stations, Autobell customers are now enjoying better traffic flow and faster service, as well as the performance of updated equipment and technology,” said Monty Rast, vice president of operations.
Rast praised Purser Electrical, Vince Aikens Painting and Baker Demolition, as well as the City of Monroe’s energy services and planning departments, City Manager Mark Watson and everyone else who worked on the project.
“The fantastic work by local contractors combined with great cooperation from municipal officials resulted in one of the best renovation projects we’ve ever experienced, “Rast said. “The city really showed they value businesses that invest in the community.”
Store manager Gavin Jenkins leads 19 full- and part-time employees.
Charlotte Radiology, Carolinas Imaging Services open centers
FORT MILL – Charlotte Radiology and Carolinas Imaging Services announced the opening of two new, separate outpatient imaging centers in Fort Mill.
Charlotte Radiology Fort Mill
Breast Center offers breast health services and technology. The expansion marks Charlotte Radiology’s 18th breast center location, further expanding access to early breast cancer detection and personalized care for patients.
Separately, in an adjacent suite, Carolinas Imaging Services Fort
Exit
• Stooges Pub & Grub: Action Jaxxon
• The Underground: United We Dance
• The Visulite Theatre: Badmotor nger
June 29
• Amos’ Southend: Rock U Roadshow Band
• Home Brew Taproom & Tunes: Adam Daniels
• The Club House: Matthew Ablan
June 30
• Evening Muse: Find Your Muse open mic
July 1
• Evening Muse: Tosco Music open mic
• Neighborhood Theatre: Faster Pussycat
July 2
• The Fillmore: Iration
July 3
• Home Brew Taproom &
Mill offers advanced diagnostic imaging services. Carolinas Imaging Services, a Charlotte Radiology partner company, now has seven locations in the region.
On the web: charlotteradiology. com or charlotteradiology.com/ carolinasimagingservices
Seemingly Overzealous opens third shop
CHARLOTTE – Seemingly Overzealous has opened a Dilworth shop at 224 East Blvd.
The brand specializes in dairyfree, egg-free and gluten-free ice cream.
Garrett Tichy and Jessica Berresse founded Seemingly Overzealous as a pandemic passion project. It has grown to three shops, including Camp North End and Plaza Midwood.
The Dilworth concept continues the brand’s tradition of fun, featuring a mix of arcade games, gumball sprinkle machines and whimsical decor.
On the web: seeminglyoverzealous.com
Aquaworld opens in Whitehall Corporate Center
CHARLOTTE – David Ngo & Angel Luong have opened Aquaworld within Whitehall Corporate Center.
The store offers aquarium enthusiasts a trusted and affordable way to purchase high-quality exotic tropical sh online. Shoppers can place orders through Aquaworld’s website and browse a selection of rare and exotic species.
Every shipment received is thoroughly tested and inspected by a team of aquatics experts.
The shop is located at 3615
Tunes: Comfortable Shirt
July 4
• Amos’ Southend: Mamma Mania
• Home Brew Taproom & Tunes: Tom & Toni
Live Music Venues
Charlotte
• Amos’ Southend: 1423 S. Tryon St.
• Evening Muse: 3227 N. Davidson St.
• Neighborhood Theatre: 511 E. 36th St.
• PNC Music Pavilion: 707 Pavilion Blvd.
• Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre: 1000 NC Music Factory Blvd.
• The Club House: 16709 Orchard Stone Run
• The Fillmore: 820 Hamilton St.
• The Underground: 820 Hamilton St.
• The Visulite Theatre: 1615 Elizabeth Ave.
Whitehall Park Drive.
ReConnex celebrates grand opening
CHARLOTTE – ReConnex, a digital device repair business launched by City Startup Labs and former participants of its ReEntry Entrepreneurship Program, celebrated its grand opening June 19.
The business, located at 5430 North Tryon St., aims to deliver reliable, dependable and affordable digital device repair services, especially in neighborhoods that have long been underserved by quality tech support.
“This is the culmination of several years of actively pursuing different iterations of ReConnex and then nally the stars aligned and here we are,” said Henry Rock, founder and executive director of City Startup Labs.
ReConnex, an extension of City Startup Labs’ ReEntry Entrepreneurship Program, is located in the I-85 and Sugar Creek Road Corridor of Opportunity.
Fitness club opening in Lower South End
CHARLOTTE – Carbon Performance, a Tennessee-based tness club, will open a 43,833-squarefoot gym and wellness facility in Charlotte’s Lower South End district, according to JLL. In addition to the new Charlotte location (3325 South Tryon St.) that is expected to open in early 2026, Carbon Performance has two locations in Nashville and another opening soon in Atlanta.
Carbon Performance in Charlotte will blend elite tness with spa-like recovery and thoughtful design. The space will feature plenty
Indian Trail
• Grapes Bistro and Wine Bar: 6461 Old Monroe Road
Mint Hill
• Char Bar No. 7: 7312
Town View Drive
• Stooges Pub & Grub: 13230 Albemarle Road
Monroe
• Franklin Court Grille: 232 E. Franklin St.
• Home Brew Taproom & Tunes: 215 S. Main St. • Local Logic: 128 S. Main St. • Peddlers Paradise Bartique: 105 W. Franklin St. • Southern Range Brewing: 151 S. Stewart St.
Stallings • Moochies Tavern: 15054 Idlewild Road
Waxhaw • Mary O’Neill’s
of parking, warm lighting, minimalist nishes and an atmosphere that is reminiscent of a high-end boutique hotel.
Carbon Performance was represented by JLL’s Margot Bizon and Lindsay Stafford in the transaction.
Cresswind Charlotte nearly sold out
CHARLOTTE – Kolter Homes announced that 10 home sites remain at Cresswind Charlotte, a 55+ community.
The final home sites are available for building homes from the Tryon Collection and offer wooded backyards. Additionally, several move-in ready homes are available.
Prospective buyers are encouraged to visit the Cresswind Charlotte Model Park at 8913 Silver Springs Court. The model park is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. On the web: www.CresswindCharlotte.com
Bojangles combines staples to create new item
CHARLOTTE – Bojangles has introduced the Breakfast Bo-Rito, a combination of the brand’s most beloved breakfast staples. This limited-time item features country-style sausage, fluffy eggs, crispy Bo-Rounds, melty Monterey Jack cheese and Southern-style sausage gravy, all wrapped in a warm flour tortilla and served with a side of Texas Pete Hot Sauce.
“Breakfast has always been a big part of who we are at Bojangles, and the new Bo-Rito is a fun new way for our fans to satisfy their breakfast cravings,” said Marshall Scarborough, vice president of menu and culinary innovation.
General Manager (Charlotte, N.C.) – Responsibilities include: leading U.S. operations and driving growth through formulating and enacting directional policies; overarching business strategy which must result in market expansion, revenue growth, and profitability; overseeing and directing all departments, including Sales, Inventory Management, Human Resources, and Finance; developing the business and relationships with stakeholders, suppliers, clients, and prospective clients. Min Req: Eligible candidates should have at least a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or a related field. Employer will accept any suitable combination of education, training or experience. Employer will accept foreign equivalency degree evaluations. Eligible candidates should mail their resume and employment experience data to: Hauck USA Inc., ATTN: HR Dept., 2115 Rexford Rd., Ste. 420, Charlotte, NC, 28211.
Financial Advisor to work in Charlotte, NC. Opportunity to work from home. Cunningham & Associates CPAs Inc., send resume to Cunningham & Associates CPAs, Inc. attention: Christie Watson at christiew@c-p-a.com. Must reference Job Code 25060.
