Atrium Health Levine Children’s opens pediatric emergency department
MONROE – Atrium Health Levine
Children’s Emergency Department
Union has opened its doors to provide around-the-clock care in a space designed for children and their families.
Located at Atrium Health Union, the new pediatric emergency department features a bright, welcoming environment with a child-friendly waiting area to make visits less intimidating.
“When you walk through the doors of Atrium Health Levine Children’s Emergency
Department Union, we want families to feel safe and truly cared for from the very rst interaction with our team,” said Denise White, facility executive and chief nurse at Atrium Health Union. “ is healing environment is brought to life by our pediatric-trained clinicians. ( ey are) experts in emergency care who know our community and understand all of our patients.”
Pediatric-trained specialists provide advanced emergency care for serious or life-threatening injuries and illnesses. Its doors
are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. “Atrium Health Levine Children’s is proud to enhance access to lifesaving, pediatric emergency care in Union County,” said Callie Dobbins, senior vice president of Atrium Health Levine Children’s. “By adding this rst-ever pediatric emergency department in Union County, families now have access to a full range of dedicated pediatric services, from primary care to hospital-level care, when and where they need us most.”
If needed, children can be admitted to the
pediatric unit at Atrium Health Union where they’ll remain under the care of Atrium Health Levine Children’s providers. Families also have direct access to additional expert services at Levine Children’s Hospital in Charlotte. Atrium Health Levine Children’s Emergency Department Union is part of a network of pediatric services in Union County, including Atrium Health Levine Children’s Urgent Care Union, Atrium Health Levine Children’s Indian Trail Pediatrics and Atrium Health Levine Children’s Union Pediatrics.
CANDIDATES ENTER ELECTION SEASON BACKED BY SUPPORTERS
by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com
CHARLOTTE – Anna London held her niece as she answered questions from a huddled group of reporters July 7 at the Mecklenburg County Board of Elections about her campaign to become District 6 rep of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education.
London, a Pineville resident who serves as president and CEO of Charlotte Works, said her experience in workforce development prompted encouragement from others to run for o ce.
“I really believe in making sure that our students are prepared for life after graduation, not just for graduation,” London told reporters. “I spent over a decade in workforce development so I know rst hand the importance of providing exposure and opportunities to students so that they can create whatever their pathway is
for life after graduation.”
London was among 22 candidates to visit the Mecklenburg County Board of Elections on the rst day of ling for the 2025 election.
Five candidates from Matthews arrived as London was wrapping up her interviews. ey were Mayor John Higdon, Commissioner John Urban and commissioner candidates Susan Chambers, Brian Hacker and John Tonello.
Higdon, who has an engineering background, said he is seeking a fourth term as mayor because he’d like to see some board initiatives through, including the Hendrick Automotive Group’s advanced manufacturing campus near Central Piedmont Community College’s Levine Campus.
Urban, who serves as principal of an architectural rm in town, said he wants to ensure the board has continuity over the next term.
Urban was rst elected as a commissioner in 2009.
“The Town of Matthews needs strong
leadership and people that will work together on the board,” said Chambers, a real estate agent who is active in the Matthews Area Chamber of Commerce and Matthews United Methodist Church.
She also serves on the Matthews Planning Board and the Matthews Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee.
Tonello is also a member of the planning board and the Economic Development Advisory Committee. He brings to the table six years of experience as mayor of Elmira, New York, a town of 30,000 people.
“A critical part of any public servant’s job is to listen and communicate – a lot,” said Tonello, a writer by trade.
Hacker, a teacher with experience in corporate communications, sees an opportunity to engage more people of di erent backgrounds in town government and events.
Charlotte Restaurant Week highlights best in local cuisine
CHARLOTTE – Link & Pin at the Arboretum, Olde Mecklenburg Brewery in Ballantyne and Fontana Di Vino in SouthPark are among 17 first-time participants in the July campaign of Queen's Feast: Charlotte Restaurant Week.
More than 125 restaurants around the Charlotte metro area will showcase their cuisine and hospitality from July 18 to 27 via three-course dining deals, ranging from $30 to $50 per person. Customers can visit CharlotteRestaurantWeek.com to view the list of participating restaurants and their special Queen’s Feast menus and make reservations.
“It’s a fun time to venture out with friends and family and experience the local restaurant scene,” said Bruce Hensley, a partner in Hensley Fontana Public Relations, which owns and operates the promotion. “You can try something new to you, or rediscover a place that you haven’t visited recently, while the restaurants make their best pitch to solidify new regular customers.”
Participating restaurants are based in nine counties: Mecklenburg, Cabarrus, Gaston, Cleveland, Union, Lincoln, Catawba, Stanly and York.
Launched in July 2008, the semi-annual promotion provides restaurants the opportunity to highlight their o erings every January and July as part of the area’s culinary scene. Reservations are recommended to ensure seats during prime dining times.
Diners can follow the promotion on Facebook (@CharlotteRestaurantWeek) and Instagram (@QueensFeast).
Participating restaurants in the southern Mecklenburg area include:
• Arboretum/Providence Crossing/Waverly: Bonnie & Clyde's Lounge, Link & Pin - Arboretum and e Porter's House.
• Ballantyne/Stonecrest: Azucar Cuban Restaurant (Ballantyne), C&W Steakhouse, The Club House Bites & Booze, Firebirds Wood Fired Grill (Stonecrest), Hestia Rooftop Restaurant, Juniper Grill, Napa Bistro & Wine Bar (Stonecrest), North Italia (Ballantyne),
Olde Mecklenburg Brewery (Ballantyne) and Tap & Vine (Stonecrest).
• Madison Park/Montford Park: CO (Park Road Shopping Center) and El Puro Cuban Restaurant.
• Matthews/Mint Hill: Angela's Pizzeria & Ristorante Italiano.
• MoRA/Sardis Woods/Galleria: Rios Brazilian Steakhouse.
• Pineville: The Garrison, A Cocktail Bar & Restaurant and Margaux's Wine, Pizza & Market.
• Quail Corners/Quail Hollow: Tap & Vine (Quail Hollow).
• SouthPark/Foxcroft: Aqua e Vino, Bulla Gastrobar, Calle Sol Latin Cafe & Cevicheria (SouthPark), Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steakhouse, Dilworth Tasting Room (SouthPark), Firebirds Wood Fired Grill (SouthPark). Fontana Di Vino, Mizu, Moon ai & Japanese Restaurant, Oak Steakhouse, Palm Restaurant, Red Rocks Cafe (SouthPark), Ruth's Chris Steak House (SouthPark) and Southern Pecan Gulf Coast Kitchen.
• Union County: Tap & Vine (Indian Trail).
Driggs running for another term on Charlotte City Council
CHARLOTTE – Ed Driggs is seeking reelection to the District 7 seat on Charlotte City Council he has held since 2013.
Driggs has had an increased presence this past term on transportation issues as Mecklenburg County leaders have worked to secure legislative buyin to address the region’s long-term mobility needs.
He currently chairs the council’s Transportation, Planning and Development Committee and represents the city on the Charlotte Regional Transportation Planning Organization.
“ ere never comes a time when you feel satis ed that your work on council is done and you can move on, but at this time there is so much more work to do,” Driggs said. “A badly needed transportation initiative is in the works that will o er more mobility options and improve roads to ease tra c woes for everyone in the city. I intend to run and work to see that initiative pass and come to fruition.”
His work led to the creation of the new transportation initiative before the General Assembly as well as amending the Uni ed Development Ordinance to balance the needs of both the community and growth.
“Our collective work continues to better align the recently adopted Unied Development Ordinance with the city’s economic development goals while also protecting the character of our existing neighborhoods,” Driggs said. “ e UDO presents a particular challenge to District 7 residents, who are experiencing increasing disruption and congestion as a result of liberalized development rules and underinvestment in new infrastructure.
“I pledge to my constituents that I will continue to ght to make sure we properly balance growth with the needs of our communities to ensure that their voices are heard on city council.”
Driggs is one of two Republicans on the 11-member council. Colleagues often credit his e orts in engaging with constituents a ected by rezoning applications in the Ballantyne area.
“ ere is no better advocate for the common sense people of Charlotte than Ed Driggs,” Congressman Tim Moore said. “ e people of District 7 have been extremely well served by his leadership and I am fully supportive of his return to Charlotte City Council.”
Driggs also serves on the council’s Jobs and Economic Development Committee.
Outside of politics, he served as a commissioned officer in the Army and worked for 30 years at majornancial institutions in New York and Europe. He and wife Caroline have lived in south Charlotte since 2002. ey have two adult children.
Anna London and her niece answer questions from Charlotte media after filing for the District 6 seat on the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education. Justin Vick/CMG photo
NEWS BRIEFS
Two killed in vehicle fire following crash
MONROE – e Monroe police and re departments responded to a vehicle crash around 3 p.m. July 6 at the intersection of East Franklin Street and Morgan Mill Road.
First responders found the vehicle engulfed in ames.
Both people inside the car died on scene. Their names have not been released, pending noti cation of their families.
e cause of the crash is under investigation. e Monroe Police Department is asking anyone with information about the incident to call 704-282-4700.
Governor kicks off school supply drive
RALEIGH – Gov. Josh Stein joined educators, advocates and State Employees Credit Union members to kick off the annual Governor’s School Supply Drive.
Stein donated a box of binders, a calculator, a set of sticky notes and a box of Kleenex to the supply drive. He encourages North Carolinians to donate supplies to their local SECU branch.
Requested supplies include paper, pens, pencils, crayons, markers, dry erase markers, USB ash drives,
spiral notebooks, sanitizing wipes, tissues and paper towels.
SECU branches place donation boxes at branch locations. e drive runs through Aug. 1.
CATS invests in 100+ new vehicles over 18 months
CHARLOTTE – e Charlotte
Area Transit System has purchased more than 100 new vehicles over the last 18 months.
e breakdown of CATS’ new eet is as follows:
• 56 new paratransit vehicles.
• 69 new Gillig local buses, including 15 Battery Electric Buses and 54 hybrid buses.
• 5 new Over the Road MCI buses for express services.
CATS has also entered into two recent service operations contracts which further add to the new vehicles serving customers. is includes new microtransit vehicles, through a partnership with MV Transportation, and the initial deployment of 24 vanpool vehicles, through a partnership with Commute with Enterprise formally launching July 1.
Matthews native joins Youth Villages’ internship program MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Matthews
BUSINESS BRIEFS
Monroe presents grant payment to Tyson Foods
MONROE – e City of Monroe presented an economic development incentive check to Tyson Foods on July 1. City leaders presented the check to Tyson Foods Complex Manager Jonathan Edwards, Senior Human Resources Business Partner Tyre Sho ner and Plant Manager Ira Phillips at the company's Monroe location.
“Tyson Foods has shown commitment to Monroe with signi cant investment in their facility,” City Manager Watson said, adding the city values Tyson’s role as one of Monroe’s major employers.
This incentive is the second of 10 that will be
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distributed this year to companies approved by Monroe City Council. e rst incentive check was given to Charlotte Pipe and Foundry on June 24.
“Incentives are not just for new companies,” said Teresa Campo, strategic projects manager. “ ey are used to retain valued business, like Tyson, and ensure employment opportunities for the community.”
On the web: developmonroe.com
Bojangles helps charities with round-up campaign
CHARLOTTE – Bojangles is giving its customers the chance to give back through a new round-up campaign.
Donations will bene t two military-focused charities: Folds of Honor Foundation and Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation.
Now through July 25, Bojangles will donate 10% of its Peach Cobbler proceeds to the two nonpro ts.
Customers can also round their tickets up to the nearest dollar at any participating Bojangles and through orders on the app, which Bojangles will donate directly back to both Folds of Honor and Fallen Patriots.
Kitchen design firm opens Chantilly location
CHARLOTTE – Forest
Kitchen Design, a highend kitchen and cabinetry design rm, is opening a second location in Charlotte at 904 Pecan Ave.
The firm is focusing its Charlotte o erings on sleek, modern, European-inspired kitchens tailored to the evolving tastes of the region.
“While we remain fluent in classic American kitchen design, this new showroom puts our modern European design capabilities front and center, including German and Italian products – from integrated cabinetry and large-format surfaces to concealed appliances and functional elegance.” said Joel R. Linn, founder and principal designer.
native Tanvi Prakash is interning for Youth Villages, a nonpro t that works with young adults with behavioral and emotional challenges and their families.
Prakash attends UNC-Chapel Hill. She is scheduled to graduate with a degree in psychology in May 2026. Prakash is working in the Youth Villages’ residential program in Memphis.
For its 2025 summer internship program, Youth Villages accepted 92 college students from more than 950 applications.
“This incredible group brings fresh perspectives, energy and compassion that will leave a lasting impact on those we serve at Youth Villages," said Luke Self, managing director of recruiting for Youth Villages.
On the web: youthvillages.org/ internships
Student achievements
• Kellan Holland, of Waxhaw, made the spring dean’s list at Drake University in des Moines, Iowa for earning a GPA of 3.5 or higher.
• McKinleigh Holland, of Waxhaw, made the spring dean’s list at Drake University in des Moines, Iowa for earning a GPA of 3.5 or higher.
Todd R. Mercer, co-founder and principal designer, will lead the showroom.
On the web: forestkitchendesign.com
Bobby’s Burgers by Bobby Flay celebrates anniversary
CHARLOTTE – Bobby’s Burgers by Bobby Flay is celebrating the one-year anniversary of its Queen City restaurant with a $10 meal deal.
The $10 Meal Deal includes The Palace Classic Burger, choice of french fries or sweet potato fries and a small soda. e Palace Classic is made with Certified Angus Beef, melted American cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles and housemade Bobby’s Sauce on a brioche bun. e o er is available from July 6 to 31 at Bobby’s Burgers by Bobby Flay, 6100 Fairview Road. Guests must say “happy anniversary” to receive the deal when ordering.
Firm recognized for pro bono work
CHARLOTTE – Moore & Van Allen PLLC won the North America Pro Bono Firm of the Year at the 2025 Women in Business Law Americas Awards on June 17 in New York City. e rm’s sta drive impact through volunteerism, from supporting human tra cking survivors to advocating for vulnerable communities.
Sarah Dohoney Byrne was also recognized as the North America Pro Bono Leader of the Year.
Byrne, who co-chairs Moore & Van Allen’s Public Service Committee and leads the rm’s Human Tra cking Pro Bono Project, was honored based on her leadership in pro bono initiatives and commitment to providing legal support to vulnerable and underserved communities across the U.S. Legal Benchmarking Group organized the Women in Business Law Awards.
Monarch relocates Outpatient Behavioral Health Office
CHARLOTTE – Monarch is relocating its Outpatient Behavioral Health
• Jonathan Myers, of Wesley Chapel, made the spring president’s roll of honor at the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, North Dakota for earning a GPA of 3.8 or higher.
• The Union County Master Gardeners gave $1,000 scholarships to high school students Jared Martinez-Silva and Rachel Bartolucci.
Quick Hits
• The Town of Mint Hill has opened a splash pad at 11524 Bain School Road.
• The Rotary Club of Matthews appointed Bruce Kantor as club president.
• Gabby Brown, Aubree McCowen, and Vivian Yeakley are stars of Spotlight Performing Arts Academy's production of “Anne of Cleves in Six: Teen Edition,” on July 12 and 13.
• The Matthews Police Department is hiring police o cers and telecommunicators.
• The Union County Sheriff’s O ce said that its smartphone app surpassed 25,000 users. Th e app features news and tra c alerts as well as adoptable pets.
• The Union County Sheriff’s Office reported 85 total arrests, including 7 DWI arrests, from June
O ce in Charlotte to a new facility at 3057 Freedom Drive beginning July 14. e location o ers a larger, updated space to support onsite and community-based behavioral health services.
The Freedom Drive ofce will continue to provide outpatient behavioral health services, including therapy, medication management and open access walk-in services.
e expanded space will also house several of Monarch's community-based services.
Community members are invited to tour the facility, meet Monarch sta and learn more about available services during an open house from 4 to 6 p.m. Aug. 14.
On the web: MonarchNC. org/events
CAMS staffer earns designation
CHARLOTTE – Community Association Management Services announced that Community Manager Jamie Wildes earned an Association Management Specialist credential.
Wildes joined CAMS in June 2023 and currently serves as an on-site community manager.
Regional Vice President Adam Soccorsi is excited to see Wildes earn his industry credentials.
“Jamie has quickly grown into an industry-leading, innovative manager whose commitment to his clients is evident in everything he does,” Soccorsi said. “Earning his AMS is a strong reection of the dedication and professionalism he brings to this eld.”
Coworking space opens on Tyvola Road
CHARLOTTE – Converge City Hub has opened its doors to meet the growing demand for flexible workspace solutions.
Th e hub, located at 756 Tyvola Road, suite 744, offers a range of services designed to meet the needs of professionals, entrepreneurs and creatives.
e space is ideal for remote workers, freelancers, startup founders and creatives seeking a professional environment that fosters productivity and collaboration.
22 to 28.
• 12 Mile Creek, Cane Creek Park and Stallings Municipal Park are among participating parks in Union County’s Park Passport program. Learn more at https://unioncountync.gov/park-passport.
• Heather Gardner, executive director of Union County Crisis Assistance Ministry, is the next guest on the Town of Indian Trail’s next Facebook Live show at 1 p.m. July 17.
• Bach Akademie Charlotte says its Charlotte Bach Festival this year saw a 17% increase in festival passes and tickets. It is planning the Charlotte Bach WinterFest (Jan. 28 to Feb. 1) and Charlotte Bach Festival (May 29 to June 6).
• Angela Scholl is incoming board chair for the Women’s Impact Fund’s board of directors for the 2025-26 year.
• Mike Bryant has officially taken over as Mecklenburg County manager, succeeding Dena Diorio.
• The Democratic Women of Mecklenburg County will honor Lt. Governor Rachel Hunt with the 2025 Doris Cromartie Award during its Paint the Town Blue Gala Candidate Fundraiser on Aug. 14.
e facility o ers exible membership options, event and meeting space, private o ces, community programming and on-site tness and training classes.
The Story of Mi Cariño opening in fall
CHARLOTTE – From the team behind VINYL, The Story of Mi Cariño (“my darling” in Spanish) will open its doors this fall in South End.
The concept, coming to the former VANA space at the corner of South Tryon Street and Summit Avenue, promises a chef-driven take on modern Mexican and Left Coast Latino cuisine, paired with agave spirits.
Mi Cariño is operated by the Charlotte-based B-Side Group, the team behind VINYL.Vince Giancarlo will oversee the culinary program. Henry Schmulling will lead the cocktail program.
On the web: micarinoclt.
com
Charlotte Area Chamber events
CHARLOTTE – The Charlotte Area Chamber of Commerce holds a ribbon cutting.
• Members celebrate the grand opening of KidsStreet Urgent Care from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. July 17 at 10039 University Blvd., suite A, Charlotte. e ribbon cutting starts at 11:30 a.m. Register in advance.
Visit charlotteareachamber.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Matthews Area Chamber events
MATTHEWS – The Matthews Area Chamber of Commerce organizes a Corks & Connections Wine Tasting, Monthly Chamber Business Luncheon and Business After Hours.
• The Women in Business Group holds a Corks & Connections Wine Tasting from 5 to 7 p.m. July 15 at Collective Cafe, 1031 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Matthews. Register in advance.
• Members convene for the Monthly Chamber Business Luncheon from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 16 at Christ Covenant Church, 800 Fullwood
Lane, Matthews. Members pay $20 in advance or $25 at the door. Others pay $25. Register in advance.
• Members network during Business After Hours from 5 to 7 p.m. July 17 at Weaver Bennett & Bland P.A., 196 N. Trade St., Matthews. Register in advance. Visit matthewschamber. org to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Waxhaw Business Association
WAXHAW – The Waxhaw Business Association holds a monthly meeting.
• Matt Villmer, of Villmer Caudill PLLC talks about “Legal Hot Topics Every Business Must Know” during the next monthly meeting at 7:30 a.m. July 16 at Waxhaw Taphouse, 110 McDonald St., Waxhaw. Register in advance. Visit waxhawbusinessassociation.org to learn more about the association and its events.
Quick Hits
• Bojangles is bringing back Bo’s Bird Dog and Peach Cobbler for a limited time. Bo’s Bird Dog features a Bo’s Chicken Supreme in a toasted potato bun, topped with two thick-cut pickles and drizzled with the signature Carolina Gold BBQ Sauce.
• Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard offers Rocket Pop Italian Ice (a twist on cherry, lemon and blue raspberry avors) and Firecracker Glitter topping through July 27.
• Jen’s Splendid Ice Creams has rolled out Popcorn Brittle, Strawberry Pretzel Pie and Watermelon Taffy flavors in honor of National Ice Cream Month.
• Starting later this summer, Spectrum TV Select customers will have access to Hulu (With Ads), alongside existing complimentary access to ad-supported Disney+ and ESPN’s soon-to-launch streaming service, anticipated by fall 2025.
• Dividend Restaurant Group concept Sullivan’s Steakhouse made Wine Spectator’s 2025 Restaurant Awards.
ELECTION from 1A
Former Matthews mayors Jim Taylor and Lee Myers as well as Commissioner Ken McCool were also there to support candidates. McCool chose not to run for reelection this year, opting to campaign for the N.C. House 105 seat in the 2026 election.
Kimberly Owens, a real estate attorney, was accompanied by several supporters as she led her campaign paperwork for the District 6 seat on Charlotte City Council. Among those supporting her July 7 was Huntersville mayor and former state legislator Christy Clark.
“She’s a longtime friend of mine and a volunteer and supporter of my campaign, so it’s time for me to return the favor,” Clark said, adding they align on issues like infrastructure.
e Mecklenburg County Board of Elections will continue registering candidates weekdays through noon July 18.
Mecklenburg County filings
Here are candidates that led paperwork at
July 11 Tribute Concert
Same As It Ever Was performs a tribute to Talking Heads during Live at the Amp at The Amp Ballantyne. Tickets cost $15 per person (5 and younger get in free). Get tickets at thebowlnc.com.
5:30-8:15 p.m.; 11115 Upper Ave., Charlotte
Cruise-In
Antique cars are on display during the Cruise-In on Main Street in Monroe e event continues on the second Friday of each month.
6-8 p.m.; North Main Street, Monroe
Bike Night
Independence Harley-Davidson presents a Bike Night with Underground Owls performing live music, Tacos el Potosino serving food and giveaways. independenceharley.com
6-9 p.m.; 9205 E. Independence Blvd., Matthews
Outdoor Concert
Petty Rewind performs a Tom Petty tribute during the Jammin’ By the Tracks concert series at the Community Corner in downtown Waxhaw. Beer will be available to buy. waxhaw.com
7-9 p.m.; 115 McDonald St., Waxhaw
Rock’n & Reel’n
On the Border performs an Eagles tribute during the Town of Pineville’s Rock’n & Reel’n summer concert series at Pineville Lake Park. pinevillenc.gov
7 p.m.; 1000 Johnston Drive, Pineville
Children’s eater Legacy Theater presents “Beetlejuice Jr.!” at Cuthbertson High School. The production continues July 12 and 13. Tickets are available on https://www.eventcreate. com/e/beetlejuicetickets.
7 p.m.; 1400 Cuthbertson Road, Waxhaw
Music Bingo
Taylor Swift fans compete for prizes during Taylor Swift Music Bingo at Middle James Brewing Company. Another Food Truck will be available. middlejamesbrewing.com
7 p.m.; 115 E. North Main St., Waxhaw
the Mecklenburg County Board of Elections on July 7. Incumbents are marked by the (I) symbol.
• Board of Education (District 1): Melissa Easley (I) and Bill Fountain.
• Board of Education (District 2): Shamaiye Haynes.
• Board of Education (District 6): Anna London.
• Charlotte Mayor (Democrats): Tigress Sydney Acute McDaniel.
• Charlotte City Council (District 3, Democrats): Montravias King.
• Charlotte City Council (District 6, Democrats): Kimberly Owens.
• Charlotte City Council (District 6, Republicans): Ed Driggs (I).
• Matthews Mayor: John Higdon (I).
• Matthews Board of Commissioners: Susan Chambers, Brian Hacker, John Tonello and John Urban (I).
• Mint Hill Board of Commissioners: Twanna Henderson (I).
e Mecklenburg County Board of Elections is located at 741 Kenilworth Ave., suite
202, Charlotte. Visit https://vote.mecknc. gov/ for details about running for office.
Union County filings Here are candidates that led paperwork at the Union County Board of Elections on July 7. Incumbents are marked by the (I) symbol.
• Indian Trail Town Council: Raven Faherty, Dennis Gay (I), Jerel Sangandi and Richard Ray Sayre II.
• Lake Park Village Council: Melissa Ann Banks, Elizabeth Belmonte and Wayne Rentsch.
• Marshville Town Council: Denise Beldin and Rusty Johnson.
• Mineral Springs Mayor: Rick Becker (I).
• Stallings Mayor: David Scholl.
• Stallings Town Council (District 3): Jon Van de Riet.
• Stallings Town Council (District 6): Brad Richardson (I).
• Waxhaw Board of Commissioners: John Mullen.
• Weddington Mayor: Jim Bell (I).
• Weddington Town Council (District 1): Ellen McLaughlin.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Music on the Green Time Machine performs a concert during Music on the Green at Promenade on Providence. promenadeonprovidence.com
7-10 p.m.; 10822 Providence Road, Charlotte
Community eater Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts debuts its latest production, “Peter and the Starcatcher” at the Matthews Community Center. e run time is 2.5 hours. e show is recommended for ages 8 and older. Tickets start at $20 for adults and $18 for children. e show runs Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through July 27. Buy tickets at matthewsplayhouse.com
7:30 p.m.; 100 E. McDowell St., Matthews
July 12
Walking Club e Steps and Stories audio walking book club explores downtown Monroe. The group meets weekly at Union County Public Library’s Monroe branch. uclnc.org
9-10 a.m.; 316 E. Windsor St., Monroe
Paws to Read
Children ages 5-11 read to a volunteer therapy dog at the Matthews Library. Sign up for a 15-minute session upon arrival. Registration opens 15 minutes before the first session. cmlibrary.org/ locations/Matthews 10-11 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Super Sweet Splash
Stallings Parks & Recreation hosts Super Sweet Splash at Stallings Municipal Park. e superhero-themed event includes an obstacle course, food truck and other activities. stallingsnc.org
10 a.m.-1 p.m.; 340 Stallings Road, Stallings
Babies & Books
Children engage in rhymes and songs during Babies & Books at Union West Regional Library. uclnc.org
10:30-11 a.m.; 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail
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
Book Signing
Rose Patrice and Jenn Kacmar sign copies of their new book, “Snow akes in the South,” at Park Road Books. parkroadbooks.com/events
2-3:30 p.m.; 4139 Park Road, Charlotte
Adopt a Dog
Destination Home Puppy Rescue holds an Adopt a Dog event at Great Wagon Road Distilling. gwrdistilling.com
2-5 p.m.; 122 W. North Main St., Waxhaw
Music on the Green
Old Man Mafia performs a concert during Music on the Green at Promenade on Providence. promenadeonprovidence.com
7-10 p.m.; 10822 Providence Road, Charlotte
Movie on the Patio
Aurora Starlit Cinemas presents a screening of “Independence Day” during Movie on the Patio at Carolina Beer Temple. carolinabeertemple. com
8 p.m.; 215 N. Ames St., Matthews
July 13
Outdoor Concert
Leftover Salmon & The Infamous Stringdusters perform music at e Amp Ballantyne. Buy tickets at ampballantyne.com/events-list.
6 p.m.; 11115 Upper Ave, Charlotte
July 14
Book Club
e Book Club for Kids discusses "Skandar and the Unicorn ief” by A.F. Steadman at Southwest Regional Library. uclnc.org
2-3 p.m.; 1515 Cuthbertson Road, Waxhaw
Bookworms & Ugly Bugs
Mecklenburg County Parks and Recreation explains the roles bugs play in our lives during Bookworms and Ugly Bugs at Pineville Library. Register in advance at cmlibrary.org/locations/Pineville. 2-3 p.m.; 505 Main St., Pineville
Paws to Read
Children ages 5-11 read to
a volunteer therapy dog at the Matthews Library. Sign up for a 15-minute session upon arrival. Registration opens 15 minutes before the first session. cmlibrary.org/ locations/Matthews
3:30-4:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Book Club e Far Horizons Book Club discusses “A Wilder Shore: The Romantic Odyssey of Fanny and Robert Louis Stevenson” by Camille Peri at Matthews Library. Register in advance at cmlibrary.org/ locations/Matthews.
5:30-6:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Comedy Night
Craig Collin hosts the Temple of Laughs Comedy Night at Carolina Beer Temple. is event features open mic comedy with signups at 6:30 p.m. carolinabeertemple. com
7 p.m.; 215 N. Ames St., Matthews
Karaoke
Ames Street Marketplace hosts a karaoke at the Back Corner. This is a weekly event.
7-10 p.m.; 215 N. Ames St., Matthews
Trivia Night
Shep’s Bar & Grill hosts a Trivia Night with drink specials. shepsbar.com
7-10 p.m.; 8111 Fairview Road, Mint Hill
July 15 Kids Movie Month
Dowd Center Theatre screens the film “Tarzan” during Kids Movie Month. Admission costs $2 at the door. Concessions will be for sale. dowdcentertheatre.com
10 a.m.; 120 S. Main St., Monroe
Book Club
The Southwest Morning Book Club discusses “The Cartographers” by Peng Shephard at Southwest Regional Library. uclnc.org
10-11 a.m.; 1515 Cuthbertson Road, Waxhaw
Travel Our World
Children learn about animals in Africa during Travel our World at Union West Regional Library. uclnc.org
3-4 p.m.; 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail
• Weddington Town Council (District 3): Clayton Lee Jones.
• Wesley Chapel Mayor: Amanda Fuller (I).
• Wingate Town Council: David Lee Dobbins Jr.
e Union County Board of Elections is located at 316-B E. Windsor St., Monroe. Visit https://www.unioncountyncelections. gov/ for details about running for office.
Audio in Audacity
Teens learn how to use Audacity to record and edit videos during Audio in Audacity at Southwest Regional Library. uclnc.org
5-6 p.m.; 1720 Cuthbertson Road, Waxhaw
Bike Night
Peddlers Paradise Bartique hosts a Bike Night at 6 p.m. and music bingo at 7 p.m. facebook.com/ peddlersparadisemonroe
6-10 p.m.; 105 W. Franklin St., Monroe
Storytime in the Park Matthews Library sta lead a special Sunset Storytime at Matthew's Town Green Park. Children listen to stories and songs. No registration is required. cmlibrary.org/ locations/Matthews
7-7:30 p.m.; 232 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Trivia Night Panzú Brewery hosts Music Bingo with the theme of high-energy party starters. panzubrewery.com/
7-8:45 p.m.; 7251 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
Trivia Night Big Pop Trivia presents a Trivia Night at The Trail House. thetrailhouseindiantrail.com
7-9 p.m.; 6751 Old Monroe Road, Indian Trail
Trivia Tuesday The Courthouse Self-Pour Beer & Wine hosts a trivia night with 10 topics. courthouseselfpour.com
7:30-9:30 p.m.; 101 W. Franklin St., Monroe
July 16
Outdoor Storytime
South County Regional Library holds a Family Storytime at Pineville Lake Park. Bring a blanket or chair. cmlibrary.org/locations/ south-county-regional 9:30-10 a.m.; 909 Lakeview Drive, Pineville
Book Club
The Pocket-Size Book Club discusses “James” by Percival Everett at Matthews Library. e adult club reads books under 300 pages. Register in advance at cmlibrary.org/ locations/Matthews.
1-2 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Book Club The Spies Lies and Alibis Book Club discusses “The Author's Guide to Murder” by Beatriz Williams at Pineville Library. cmlibrary. org/locations/Pineville 2-3 p.m.; 505 Main St., Pineville
Paws to Read Children ages 5-11 read to a volunteer therapy dog at the Matthews Library. Sign up for a 15-minute session upon arrival. Registration opens 15 minutes before the first session. cmlibrary.org/ locations/Matthews
3:30-4:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews Bike Night
Kristopher’s Sports Bar & Restaurant holds a Bike Night with music and drink specials. kristopherssportsbar.com
5:30-8:30 p.m.; 250 N. Trade St., Matthews
Book Club e Starlit Tales Book Club discusses “Saga, Volume One” by Brian K. Vaughan at Union West Regional Library. uclnc.org
5:45-6:45 p.m.; 123 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail
Bike Night
Shep’s Bar & Grill hotels a Bike Night with music and drink specials. shepsbar.com
6-9 p.m.; 8111 Fairview Road, Mint Hill
Music Bingo Patrons play Music Bingo at Pour 64. pour64.com
6:30-8:30 p.m.; 4410 Mint Hill Village Lane, Mint Hill
Music Bingo The Courthouse SelfPour Beer & Wine hosts music bingo. courthouseselfpour.com
7:30 p.m.; 101 W. Franklin st., Monroe
July 17
Kids Movie Month
Dowd Center eatre screens the film “Brother Bear” during Kids Movie Month. Admission costs $2 at the door. Concessions will be for sale. dowdcentertheatre.com
2 p.m.; 120 S. Main St., Monroe
John Tonello, Susan Chambers, John Higdon, Jim Taylor, John Urban and Lee Myers were at the Mecklenburg County Board of Elections. Former mayors Taylor and Myers are not running for office but were there for support. Justin Vick/CMG photo
Susan Chambers, Brian Hacker, Ken McCool and John Urban were at the board of elections for the first day of election filing. McCool is not running for reelection to his commissioner seat. Instead, he is running for N.C. House District 105.
Mayor John Higdon, Commissioner John Urban and commissioner candidate John Tonello sign forms at the Mecklenburg County Board of Elections to enter the 2025 campaign season.
Jennifer Owens, center, is joined by supporters during the official launch of her Charlotte City Council campaign. Among supporters is Huntersville mayor and former state legislator Christy Clark.
Monroe approves FY 2025-26 budget
MONROE – Monroe City Council passed the fiscal year 2026 budget June 23 with a 5-2 vote.
e total operating FY26 budget is $222.4 million with an adopted tax rate at 44 cents, down from 50.25.
City Manager Mark Watson described how the budget has been developed to meet the current and future service demands for Monroe residents. e city’s population is estimated at 43,081, a 25% increase over the past ve years.
e budget includes $2 million for a street paving program, a council priority expressed at the City Council Strategic Planning Retreat
on Sept. 12 and 13, 2024.
“Monroe’s budget is built on responsible growth and thoughtful planning, preserving vital services while positioning the city, which is Union County’s only full-service municipality, for a strong economic future,” Watson said. “With public service as a top priority, our police department is a stand-out among peers, with one of the region’s lowest vacancy rates.
“Monroe is business friendly and is a onestop shop for obtaining water, sewer, natural gas and electric services. We are equipped to meet future demand for residents and businesses.”
e city issues 850 to 950 new single-family
home permits yearly and approximately 700 business and residential permits monthly.
Monroe’s utilities are sustained through their own revenues of user fees and require no general fund support. Additionally, the budget includes strategic workforce planning that reduces the city’s reliance on outside contracts.
“The budget is fiscally sound and fully funds all prior commitments, a 3% increase for healthcare, the Department of State Treasurer actuarially required contributions to the retirement system, workers’ compensation and prior debt service requirements,” Finance Director Lisa Strickland said.
Members of the council expressed
Matthews leaders approve budget with tax increase
By Justin Vick Contributor
MATTHEWS – The Matthews Board of Commissioners voted 4-3 to approve former Town Manager Becky Hawke’s recommended 2025-26 fiscal year budget despite one leader’s last-ditch effort to avoid a tax increase.
Hawke, who left last month to become city manager of Wilmington, recommended a $41.3 million budget with a property tax rate of 27.95 cents per $100 valuation. at represents a 1.3 cent increase over the current tax rate.
e tax rate increase is needed to cover debt service payments associated with parks and transportation bonds.
Mayor John Higdon and commissioners Renee Garner, Ken McCool and John Urban voted in favor of the budget on June 23. Commissioners Gina Hoover, Leon reatt and Mark Tofano voted against it.
Hoover told colleagues it was essential they do everything they can to avoid a property tax rate increase. She worried about struggling families, people on xed incomes, young couples and single parents.
Hoover suggested moving $1 million from funding designated for a ordable housing to cover the debt service payments for the coming year.
“ is would give citizens time to prepare and allow sta to explore potential solutions for continuing funding until the
nancial situation improves for the residents of Matthews,” Hoover said. “While in ation is decreasing, it is unfortunately not happening fast enough.”
Garner said that allocating $1.5 million for a ordable housing back in 2021 was a huge win for the board.
“ e suggestion that we take the money that's left and not use it for a ordable housing means that we have spent the past four years lying to our constituents,” Garner said, “that we will make a promise to you and then in four years we will go back on it.”
Garner said the town can point people in the direction of tax assistance while still paying o the bond projects and moving forward with a ordable housing.
McCool said the board should not be using one-time revenue sources to pay o recurring expenses.
“We cannot kick the can to the next board and then the next and the next,” McCool said. “At some point something has to give, and you have to stand up, have a backbone and do the hard thing. I am frustrated because we've had many meetings about this budget and every single solution has come with a one-time hit to cover this cost, and we've had this conversation over and over and over again and no real changes have been made.”
Interim Town Manager Curt Walton o ered similar advice in a June 18 memo to the board. reatt asked Walton, a former Charlotte city manager, to weigh in on
Hawke’s recommended budget and a few potential strategies, such as adjusting the town’s fund balance, or savings, to avoid a tax increase.
“Independent of the fund balance percentage benchmark, I would not advise the board to use one-time revenues for recurring expenses, such as lapsed salaries,” Walton wrote in his memo. “Doing so only compounds the nancial problem in subsequent years.”
Walton also pointed to the town's AAA bond rating, advising that rating agencies prefer to see a "predictable and recurring revenue stream" to pay for bonds. Losing the AAA bond rating, he said, would increase borrowing costs for issuing debt.
While reatt said he respects Hawke’s budget recommendation and Walton’s endorsement of it, he did not think that a property tax rate increase was the only way forward.
“I have always been, as long as I can remember, a common sense thinker who believed strongly and still believes strongly that the only time that government should ask for more money from the people is when we have searched every possible means to see if we can operate within our means,” reatt said. “I'm not convinced that we've done that. I'm not convinced.”
McCool wondered what ideas would come about in the next 12 months that haven’t been discussed in the last six months.
New college dean has an appreciation for history
By Rachel Pleasant Contributor
MONROE – Rebecca Berry, whose interest in higher education began as she watched history shows on public television with her newborn son, started her new role July 1 as dean of the School of Arts and Sciences at South Piedmont Community College.
Her portfolio will encompass the school’s three academic departments, the Associate in Arts in a Year program, as well as the school’s co-curricular high-impact practices.
“We are pleased to welcome Dr. Berry to South Piedmont,” said Travis Teague, vice president for academic a airs. “Dr. Berry’s experience, enthusiasm and energy are an ideal match for our students and service area. She has a vision for our School of Arts and Sciences, vast NC Community College System knowledge and a clear commitment to student success that are sure to result in great things for South Piedmont.”
A native of Searcy, Arkansas, Berry earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Harding University in 1994, but it wasn’t until after undergrad that she found her lifelong passion.
“When I was a new mother and stayed at home with my son, Noah, I began watching public television and got really into history programs. I wasn’t a great history student when I was in undergraduate school, but during that time in my life, I got really interested in history programs. I was surprised that I enjoyed it so much,”
she said. “I found myself telling everyone about what I was learning. Over time, I realized that what I loved even more was helping others experience the same interest and excitement, so I pursued a career as a history instructor.”
Berry went on to earn her master’s in global history from Arkansas State University and her doctorate in adult and community college education with an emphasis in community college leadership from N.C. State University.
After several years working as an adjunct instructor, Berry was hired as a faculty member of history and humanities at Wake Technical Community College in 2007, subsequently gaining the rank of senior professor. In the years that followed, she held a number of roles at Wake, including humanities department head, director of global education, program director of the student experience program and strategic planning lead.
Her new role at South Piedmont allows Berry to put all the various pieces of her life and career to work for the college.
“Much of the work I’ve done in the realm of strategic planning, high-impact practices, global education and online learning closely aligns with the ideas of South Piedmont,” she said.
“It is especially exciting to come to South Piedmont at a time of rapid change. Besides arriving at the same time as the new president and a new vice president (President Stacy Waters-Bailey started on July 1; Teague started in his position in 2024), the campuses are also undergoing
appreciation for the budget for including the street paving program, additional personnel in public safety, and an employee cost of living adjustment.
“ is budget process has been smooth and successful, starting with the council retreat in September, followed by numerous meetings among department directors, nance and city leadership and individual informational sessions with council members,” Assistant City Manager Lisa Hollowell said. “ e resulting budget positions the city for continued success in the future.”
On the web: monroenc.org/budget.
Wingate University receives $1 million grant to boost college-access programs
WINGATE – A new $1 million grant from
The Leon Levine Foundation will help Wingate University improve college access in rural eastern Union County and neighboring counties.
e grant, to be disbursed over ve years, will create a support system for students from eighth grade through post-college employment.
“This integrated approach addresses the ‘leaky pipeline’ that disproportionately impacts rst-generation students and those from economically disadvantaged areas,” said Kacey Grantham, Wingate’s senior vice president of career pathways. The grant will help expand successful college-access programs, boost student-support efforts for underrepresented populations and implement more career-focused programs. e primary initiatives covered by the grant fall under three main topic areas: access, attainment and career placement.
e university will use grant money to expand the successful UC Guarantee and Way nd programs to neighboring counties (access); implement targeted retention programs for at-risk students (attainment); and increase the number of experiential-learning and networking opportunities and mentorship programs (career placement). Many of these programs will be designed for low-income and rst-generation students. Over the years, e Leon Levine Foundation has given millions of dollars to Wingate University. With this support, the university established the Levine College of Health Sciences in 2009 and The Leon Levine Foundation Endowed Scholarship in 2003.
expansive building projects. Everything at South Piedmont seems new and exciting.
I’m thrilled to be joining at the onset of so many dynamic changes.”
Berry looks forward to nding new ways to serve students and help them reach their goals. She’s also excited about the chance to expand the college’s global education opportunities.
“ at could mean everything from globalizing coursework to creating partnerships with the industries in the area who will accept our graduates. Given the increasingly global nature of the workforce, an emphasis on global education will better help prepare our students to work in diverse international settings,” she said.
Outside of work, Berry is an avid traveler. Much of her spare time is spent “either planning travel, saving for travel or actually traveling.”
But the move to South Piedmont is also an exciting chance for Berry and her husband, Peter, to explore the region closer to Noah, who now lives in Charlotte.
“South Piedmont feels right on both a personal and professional level,” she said. “My career began with an interest in history, but now, I’m excited to be looking to the future, to all the great things I’ll be able to contribute to as a member of the South Piedmont family.”
Rachel Pleasant serves as executive director of communication for South Piedmont Community College.
e latest gift will enable the university to increase sta ng levels and develop an end-to-end, multiyear support system for students from vulnerable populations, of which Wingate enrolls a high percentage. In the 2024-25 academic year, 42% of Wingate students were eligible for Pell Grants and 46% were among the rst generation in their families to attend college.
“Our college-access programs have proved to be game-changing for students,” said Dr. Heather Miller, senior vice president and chief of sta at Wingate. “With e Leon Levine Foundation’s generous gift, we will be able to make college a reality for more students who might otherwise not get the chance to earn a degree that puts them on a path to earning a meaningful wage.”
With the grant, Wingate will be able to enhance the work it has done to help the nonpro t myFutureNC reach its goal of having 2 million 25- to 44-year-old North Carolinians hold an industry-valued credential or postsecondary degree by 2030. In 2022, the university helped myFutureNC, South Piedmont Community College, Union County Public Schools and other community partners set up Our Future in Unison, a college-readiness program that operates in Union and Anson counties.
Our Future in UNiSON has held events designed to help parents ll out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and to provide valuable higher-education and career information and resources to the Latino community. rough a partnership between UNiSON and e Academy of Goal Achievers, Wingate University awarded $1.15 million in scholarships in 2024 alone.
Senemeht Olatunji, regional impact manager with myFutureNC, said e Leon Levine Foundation grant will only strengthen that e ort. “ is grant empowers us to keep building talent pipelines, expanding access to postsecondary education, and developing long-term strategies to reduce the cycle of generational poverty,” she says. “ is work is directly aligned with North Carolina’s goal to ensure that 2 million residents hold a high-quality credential or postsecondary degree by 2030. Together, we’re reshaping what’s possible when communities work in unison.”
REGIONAL
Program combines beer and women’s topics
CHARLOTTE – Talking about money can be intimidating. Resident Culture thinks it goes down easier with a beer.
That’s part of the thinking behind Above the Freya, a new initiative from Resident Culture Brewing Co. that allows for honest, empowering conversations among women about topics such as motherhood, health, relationships and leadership.
This initiative launched June 24 with a free, five-part series focused on financial empowerment.
Monthly programs combine practical tools with real-world conversations and hands-on examples, covering budgeting, debt management, investing, long-term planning and building financially healthy relationships.
“Our International Women’s Day activations are cornerstone events for our organization,” said Amanda McLamb, co-founder and CEO of Resident Culture. “We’ve always had incredibly impactful conversations, connected with new friends, held space, and left those events with a longing for more opportunities
to connect, share knowledge, and grow together. Above the Freya offers the opportunity to do that and continue conversations we need now more than ever.”
Suzy Hile, a Charlotte-based financial expert, leads the series. As relationship manager at Milburn Services LLC, Hile advises multiple generations of families on their financial lives on their path to economic security.
“Money is one of those things we’re all expected to know how to handle, but no one ever really teaches you, especially when it comes to navigating the financials of the modern world,” McLamb said. “Above the Freya is about breaking that cycle. It’s about naming the fears, asking the so-called ‘dumb’ questions, and finally getting honest about something that touches every part of our lives.”
Held from 6 to 7 p.m. at the South End taproom, 332 W. Bland St., the remaining parts of the series are as follows:
• July 29: Debt and Emotional Weight – Drawing from financial thought leader Suze Orman’s approach, this session takes a
compassionate, strategic look at debt. Learn how to tackle it, how to talk about i and how to stop letting shame dictate financial decisions. Guests will explore how to reframe the understanding of “good” vs. “bad” debt and gain tools for more open and effective conversations around money, especially with partners.
• Aug. 12: Investing and Long-Term Security – This discussion aims to dispel the intimidation often associated with investing. It explores foundational questions, such as: Where should someone begin? What risks are worth taking? How is “enough” defined and who gets to decide? The goal is to support women in building safety nets that reflect their values and long-term visions, striking a balance between peace of mind and financial growth.
• Sept. 30: Savings, Retirement and Building for the Future – From emergency savings to long-range planning, this session focuses on building financial infrastructure that supports significant life moments, such
She was either a good actress or it was real
By Tony Marciano Contributor
If the phone company supported Rotary phones, I would still have one. I am slow to adopt new technology. With that being said, I just (yes, now “just”) signed up for Netflix. The first movie we watched was “The Nonna’s.” That’s the subject for a different article. The next one was the Jeremy and Melissa Camp story, “I Still Believe.” Jeremy is pursuing a Christian music ministry. He meets Melissa at college and they fall madly in love. During this time, she develops ovarian cancer. The doctors did not give her much of a chance. Through his Christian concerts, he asked for healing prayer for his fiancée. She was healed. They got married. But the cancer came back with a vengeance. She is in excruciating pain. Yet, there was a countenance about her I couldn’t shake. She humanizes the reality of the cancer when she lacks the strength to open a jar. She gets mad and throws the glass jar off the counter, breaking it into many pieces. Yet knowing she was terminal, she said, “If one person comes to Christ, it was all worth it.”
The actress portraying Melissa appeared genuine. It was as if her acting was melting
Ballantyne is about to go insane in the membrane
NEW YORK – West Coast hip-hop legends Cypress Hill are bringing their monthlong Dank Daze of Summer Tour to Amp Ballantyne on Aug. 12. The show will be co-headlined by hip-hop duo Atmosphere. Grammy Award-winning rapper Lupe Fiasco and LA-based act The Pharcyde will also perform.
Cypress Hill has had a big year so far with the release of the concert film, “Cypress Hill and the London Symphony Orchestra: Black Sunday Live at the Royal Albert Hall,” full-length live album of the same performance and a limited-edition graphic novel, “Cypress Hill: Black Sunday,” created in partnership with Z2 Comics. On the web: cypresshill.com
Recently announced shows
• Morgan James: Aug. 8 at Middle C Jazz Club
• Hazlett: Sept. 22 at Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre
• Mehro: Sept. 24 at Neighborhood Theatre.
July 11
• Amos’ Southend: Queen Flash
• Cork & Ale: Carrie Ann
• Evening Muse: Justin Clyde Williams & Late for Supper; Low Groves & Hotel Hugo
• Great Wagon Road Distilling: Dustin Yager
• Harley-Davidson: Underground Owls
• Home Brew Taproom & Tunes: Dual Drive
• Moochies Tavern: 485
• Neighborhood Theatre: Lettuce
• Pineville Tavern: Southern Rock Revue
• Stooges Pub & Grub: Kids in America
• The Fillmore: Sorry Papi
• The Trail House: Zephyr Union
• The Visulite Theatre: Doubting Thomas
+ Shake the Dust
• White Duck Taco: Matthew Ablan
July 12
• Amos’ Southend: Sickman
this jaded heart of mine. I googled, “magical thinking,” something I’ve I struggled watching Christians do. By that I mean using an excuse to avoid facing the pain of the situation. I found a great response.
“Magical thinking is objectifying (degrades God – he is our servant) because we are caught in an endless cycle of waiting for others to act. Faith actively pursues destiny. Being faithful is showing up daily and asking what God has called you to do, knowing that obedience will reap an actual harvest.” I wasn’t crazy. This is how I’ve lived my Christian life. I wake up every day and (hopefully) am walking in step with God – not in front of Him, getting too far ahead, or behind him, acting out of fear.
The next day I felt different. Lighter. I googled the actress and confirmed she was a Christian. It was as if she used her part in the movie to show who Jesus Christ is to her. Something changed in me. I thought of the woman portraying Melissa. She came across real, genuine and sincere. I could trust her. She wasn’t acting. The role she played was the story of her Christian testimony.
For the first time in more time that I want to acknowledge, I found myself not ruminating over those who had hurt me. Most of my life I have been hurt, betrayed
• Evening Muse: Sapphire’s Garden; Wim Tapley & The Cannons
• Franklin Court Grille: Dose of Ocean
• Home Brew Taproom & Tunes: Rayford Kirven
• Local Logic: Even the Losers
• Pineville Tavern: Little Johnny Trailer Trash
• Southern Range Brewing: Analog Crash
• Stooges Pub & Grub: Next O’ Kin
• The Fillmore: Rumours ATL
• The Trail House: Mike’d Up
July 13
• Home Brew Taproom & Tunes: Dougie Plant
• Neighborhood Theatre: Paige Fish
July 14
• Evening Muse: Open mic
• Neighborhood Theatre: BashfortheWorld
July 15
• PNC Music Pavilion: Counting Crows
• Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre: The Head and the Heart
July 16
• Amos’ Southend: Mates of State
• Evening Muse: Chad Frick
• Peddlers Paradise Bartique: Open mic
• PNC Music Pavilion: Big Time Rush
• The Trail House: Dustin Yager
July 17
• Evening Muse: Imogene and the Box Car Band
• Home Brew Taproom & Tunes: Open mic
• Iron Thunder Saloon & Grill: Adam Daniels
July 18
• Evening Muse: Muskrat Flats and The Halem Albright Band; DustBowl Champion
• Neighborhood Theatre: Sunny Sweeney
• Stooges Pub & Grub: House of Hair
• The Trail House: Reckless Betty
• The Visulite Theatre: Spafford
and lied to by Christians. I joked that I get along better with unbelievers because they are real to me.
Even though I profess to being a Christian, I often found myself putting up a wall when someone told me they were a Christian. Could I trust them? Would their word be their bond? More importantly, was what they were professing something they possessed? Or was it an act? Today was different. I no longer harbored resentments towards someone in spite of what they had done to me or said to me or about me. I started playing contemporary Christian music while driving. I listened to Christian podcasts without wondering if they were real.
I felt God had answered my prayer of healing my jaded heart. In the book of Ezekiel, there is a verse that repeats itself several times. It says that God will remove the heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh. And in those moments, my heart that no longer trusted, that operated with skepticism finally felt alive.
I’ll be back soon. Until then, live well my friend.
The Rev. Tony Marciano is available to speak to your group. DM him on Facebook.
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 Fillmore: 820 Hamilton St.
• The Visulite Theatre: 1615 Elizabeth Ave.
Indian Trail
• The Trail House
Matthews
• Harley-Davidson: 9205 E. Independence Blvd.
• White Duck Taco: 131 E. John St.
Mint Hill
• Stooges Pub & Grub: 13230 Albemarle Road
Monroe
• 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.
• Southern Range Brewing: 151 S. Stewart St.
Pineville
• Pineville Tavern: 312 N. Polk St.
Stallings
• Moochies Tavern: 15054 Idlewild Road
Waxhaw
• Cork & Ale: 113 E. North Main St.
• Great Wagon Road Distilling: 122 W. North Main St.
as buying a home, having children, pivoting careers or self-funding major transitions. Retirement tools like Roth IRAs and 401(k) s are explained, alongside practical guidance on what “enough” means in today’s world.
• Oct. 21: Smart Love: Planning for Partnership, Not Dependency – This closing session focuses on the financial aspects of love, exploring how to align with a partner on shared goals, identify financial red flags and plan for life’s uncertainties with clarity and care. From prenups to power dynamics, it offers tools to build systems that support both independence and intimacy while keeping values, boundaries and bank accounts in sync.
“As a mom, as a business owner, as someone who’s fumbled through financial decisions myself, I know how powerful it is to say, ‘I don’t know where to start.’ We want to normalize that,” McLamb said. “We want people to leave these events not just with information, but with a little more confidence, and a whole lot less shame.”
On the web: residentculturebrewing.com
DINING SCORES
Health departments in Mecklenburg and
Carnegie Blvd. – 97 • Cousins Maine Lobster #3, 3500 Latrobe Drive – 97.5 • Firebirds, 3920 Sharon Road – 97.5 • Little Mamas Italian Kitchen, 4521 Sharon Road – 90 • Publix (deli), 4425 Randolph Road – 97 • Publix (meat market), 4425 Randolph Road – 100 • Publix (produce), 4425 Randolph Road – 97 • Publix (seafood), 4425 Randolph Road – 100 • Roosters Wood Fired Restaurant and Wine Bar, 6601 Carnegie Blvd. – 96.5
• Suffolk Punch, 4400 Sharon Road – 97
• Taquero Mucho Food Truck, 3500 Latrobe Drive – 95.5
• Teal Turnip/Tayste Catering, 1640 Oakhurst Commons Drive – 98
• Thai Orchid, 4223 Providence Road – 97 Charlotte (28226) • Brixx Wood Fired Pizza, 7814 Fairview Road – 97 • Chick-fil-A, 3117 Pineville-Matthews Road – 99.5 • Harris Teeter (deli/bakery), 7823 Colony Road – 98.5
BBB: Stolen data, impostors and fake services harm businesses
CHARLOTTE – Since 2022, business scam reports to BBB Scam TrackerSM have totaled more than 3,600. These scams involved employee and vendor impersonations, theft of social media accounts, data breaches and many more scam types.
Reports to the Better Business Bureau show that business scammers can steal hundreds of thousands of dollars in a ash without proper protections. Further reports to federal agencies show total losses of billions each year.
In “BBB Study: How impostors, stolen data, and fake services cost businesses billions,” the International Investigations Initiative examines patterns of reports, reviews the amount of money lost and shares stories from those caught up in the scams so businesses can avoid them.
Key findings:
• Business scams are ubiquitous across North America and come in many forms.
• Losses are staggering for businesses. The average data breach costs a company $4.9 million, a gure that excludes some of the largest losses. Data breaches cost businesses a total of $1.4 billion in 2024, according to FBI data.
• Billions more are stolen through elaborate schemes, such as business email compromise scams, where scammers steal employees’ identities and use them to convince others to hand over cash or sensitive information.
Business scam reports across North America (2023-2024):
• 3,647 – BBB Scam Tracker
• 74,489 – Federal Bureau of Investigation
• 9,286 – Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre
Scam survivor stories
• Stevin, a licensed general contractor in North Carolina, was contacted by a client to provide a quote for flooring on a property the client was purchasing. Stevin submitted the quote to the consumer and was sent a cashier’s check for the materials and deposit for the labor, totaling $12,210. Once the check cleared Stevin’s bank account, the client requested that Stevin purchase the flooring materials from a speci c supplier the client had already contacted. Stevin agreed and the client sent over an invoice with the material total and payment information, totaling $9,745.04. Stevin submitted the $9,745.04 payment for materials and unfortunately the original check for $12,210 bounced, leaving Stevin out thousands of dollars in his business account.
• Whitney, a consumer in North Carolina, was contacted by a Duke Energy impostor who left her a message to call them back, as her services were going to be cut o due to a deposit being owed. Upon calling them back, they had several address mixups, and when Whitney asked why she
hadn’t received a bill or how she seemed to get to the point of disconnection, they had no answers. They simply told her the only way to clear the situation up was to drive to Walmart to make a payment because a normal credit card payment wouldn’t process in time before disconnection and additional fees. They wanted to send her two barcodes to load money onto, one for $1,000 and the other for $998.97. They also explained that she would need to stay on the phone with them while she drove to Walmart to add the funds. This made things seem very off to Whitney and she disconnected the call. Afterwards, she reached out to the Duke Energy business line to verify her account status and everything was ne. Fortunately, Whitney did not lose any funds to this scammer.
What are the signs of a business scam?
• Outreach from unknown businesses, government agencies and big-ticket buyers
• Invoices from unexpected emails
• Odd behavior from “known” vendors or businesses
• Requests for gift card or pre-paid debit card payments
• Urgent demands to renew or obtain licenses or trademarks
• Claims about expiring domain names
• Consultants making big promises about helping your business
How can I protect my business and employees from scams?
• Train employees to recognize scams. Most scams can be avoided with proper education. Let your employees know about common scams, what to do if they are approached by an unknown source and how to follow cybersecurity best practices.
• Establish payment procedures. Create a framework for payments that builds in security measures. Double-checking a source through another means of communication or with prior records can help avoid future headaches.
• Research unknown companies asking to do business. Scammers know business owners want new customers. Be wary when an unknown company or business makes grand o ers.
• Install firewalls, multifactor authentication, and other security measures. Cybersecurity practices are vital to avoiding ransomware and data breaches. Keep software up to date, hire consultants to review practices, and ensure your IT systems are safe.
For over a decade, BBB’s International Investigations Initiative has advocated for an ethical marketplace by conducting deep-dive research on the riskiest and most common scams reported across North America.
Visit BBB.org/scamstudies for more on information theft and other scams.
Visit BBB.org to check out a business or register a complaint and BBB Scam TrackerSM to report a scam.
College starts construction on Center for Entrepreneurship
MONROE – South Piedmont Community College has officially broken ground on its new Center for Entrepreneurship at the corner of its Old Charlotte Highway Campus.
The center will support innovation, small business growth and entrepreneurial development in Union County and surrounding areas.
The two-story, 49,000-square-foot building will have amenities tailored to the needs of entrepreneurs and professionals. These features include:
• Coworking space that includes private o ces, suites and “hot desks” for short-term use.
• A 508-seat, movie-theater-style auditorium ideal for conferences and large presentations.
• A podcast/videography studio designed for entrepreneurs to create professional content.
Construction set to begin on college’s Campus Store
MONROE – Construction of South Piedmont Community College’s new Campus Store will begin in early July and be completed in September.
The store will be operated in partnership with Barnes & Noble College, which the college said will bring a new level of convenience, service and school spirit for students and sta .
The store will offer everything from textbooks and course materials to school supplies and South Piedmont gear.
The library will temporarily relocate to Main 3149 during the renovation, where students will continue to have access to a full range of services, including checking books in and out for both academic and recreational reading, as well as borrowing laptops.
When construction is complete, the library and store will share the space once occupied solely by the library within the Main Building on the Old Charlotte Highway campus. They will be their own distinct areas with separate entrances.
“I am excited that students will be able to purchase spirit wear once the Campus Store opens and that the Library Learning
• A café and catering kitchen.
• An outdoor patio accommodating up to 100 people.
“It’s going to be special,” said Erik Dagenhart, South Piedmont’s construction manager. “It’s a community building.”
Dagenhart is overseeing the project. He said the construction site has its own entrance and parking, ensuring minimal disruption to regular campus activity.
Once completed in December 2026, the center will be led by Renee Hode, director of small business and entrepreneurship.
The building is intended primarily for public and professional use, serving as a one-stop resource for entrepreneurs and small business owners to work, collaborate and exchange ideas.
As Dagenhart put it, the center will be “for entrepreneurs to gather and work together, to feed o each other.”
Commons will continue services during the transition,” said Dana Glauner, library services director.
Atlas Galmish serves as store manager. She can be reached at agalmish@bncollege. com. Learn more about the Campus Store at https://spcc.edu/student-life-resources/ campusstore/.
South Piedmont to upgrade
Lockhart-Taylor Center
South Piedmont Community College is planning major renovations to the Lockhart-Taylor Center in Anson County.
The center has hosted many events over the years, including celebrations, community meetings, educational gatherings and weddings.
“I’m especially excited to make the Lockhart-Taylor Center more accessible and give it the cosmetic refresh it truly deserves,” said Michelle Brock, vice president of nance and administrative services. “This building has meant so much to our college and the broader community. It’s time it gets the love and care it’s earned.”
South Piedmont is embarking on major renovations to the 9,000-square-foot facility thanks to a $1.5 million investment from the State Capital and Infrastructure Fund.
In addition to resolving long-standing maintenance needs, the renovation will include updated lighting, carpeting and paint. Construction activity is expected to begin early next year and will take about a year to complete.
Upgrade summer lunches with nutritious twists on grilled cheese
(Family Features) When the kids are home for summer break, meal-prep becomes a must for busy families to ensure nutritious foods are on the menu. This summer, give your kiddos the fuel they need for all their warm-weather activities and adventures with a healthy twist on a childhood classic.
One bite into a grilled cheese sandwich and you’re back in your childhood kitchen, bringing all the nostalgic vibes you can pass down to your little ones. Plus, with nearly endless combinations, there’s a solution for everyone from classics to creative versions.
Fruit in a grilled cheese may not be the rst idea that comes to mind, but these Blackberry Grilled Cheese Sandwiches offer a juicy, slightly tart burst of avor tucked between crunchy slices of bread. It’s a sweet, savory lunch that’s just funky enough to impress while putting fresh produce on your kids’ plates.
“We love juicy blackberries - not just because they’re delicious, but because they’re packed with fiber,” registered dietitian Tony Castillo said. “That fiber helps keep you full, supports gut health and keeps your energy steady. Plus, blackberries are loaded with antioxidants and vitamin C, making them a true superfood. They’re perfect for baking, savory dishes or just as a snack on the go.”
Picky eaters have met their match with Chicken and Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwiches. Tender shredded chicken meets tart apple slices, ooey gooey cheese and wholegrain bread for an unexpected twist that will have taste buds tingling. With minimal ingredients and maximum avor, they’re ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekend lunches.
If you’re aiming to upgrade your cheesy sandwich arsenal, consider these tips from Healthy Family Project:
• Cook low and slow over medium-low heat so the bread reaches a crisp golden while cheese melts to perfection.
• Real butter or olive oil adds a level of crispiness and avor.
• Experimenting with cheese can give sandwiches an extra boost. Cheddar is the classic option, but mozzarella, gouda and brie bring newfound avor pro les.
• Look for the Produce for Kids or Healthy Family Project logo in your local grocery store
to nd brands dedicated to creating a healthier generation.
Serve up more delicious, kid-friendly lunches this summer by visiting HealthyFamilyProject.com.
Blackberry Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Recipe courtesy of Healthy Family Project
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
1 tablespoon stone-ground mustard
4 slices whole-grain bread
2 slices provolone cheese
10-12 blackberries, cut in half
Heat medium skillet over low heat.
In small bowl, mix mayonnaise and mustard; spread on one side of each slice of bread. Place bread mayo-side-down in skillet. Top with cheese and blackberries. Add second slice of bread mayo-side-up.
Cook 3-4 minutes per side, or until bread is toasted and cheese is melted. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Chicken and Apple Grilled Cheese
Sandwiches
Recipe courtesy of Healthy Family Project
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
8 slices whole-grain bread
8 ounces sliced rotisserie-style chicken breast
4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
1 apple, thinly sliced prepared salad, for serving
Heat large skillet over medium-low heat.
Lightly butter one side of each slice of bread. Place bread butter-side-down in skillet. Top with chicken, cheese and apple slices. Top with slice of bread butter-side-up.
Cook 2-3 minutes, flip and cook 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted.
Remove from heat and cut in half. Repeat with remaining sandwiches. Serve with prepared salad.
Source: Healthy Family Project
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Credit Karma, LLC seeks the following in Charlotte, NC (may telecommute within normal commuting distance of the Charlotte, NC office): Software Engineer III (79012): Build new software platforms that improve the partner integration process, shorten onboarding times, and increase sustainability and maintainability of existing systems. Salary: $172,350/yr; Sr. Software Engineer (91729): Participate in every aspect of the software development cycle as a member of a small crossfunctional scrum team. Salary: $216,765/ yr; Mobile Software Engineer III (27278): Participate in all stages of the software development life cycle to implement new features based on product requirements. Salary: $181,034/yr. To Apply: Submit resume on www.jobpostingtoday.com, using Job ID # following Job Title above. Background checks req’d.
Credit Karma, LLC seeks the following in Charlotte, NC: Senior Product Analyst (77484): Analyzing internal and external data to develop valuable business recommendations Conducting analyses and designing tests to support product launches and improvements. Salary: $164,232/yr; Software Engineer III (57023): Design and develop software features using the latest frameworks, design patterns, datastores, and technologies. Salary: $180,968/yr; Software Engineer III (40483): Collaborate and develop with team members to build scalable features and systems. Develop code and tests for implementing product features. Conduct code reviews.
Salary: $180,968/yr; Cloud Security Engineer III (49772): Design securitycentric cloud architecture and web application firewall solutions according to company-wide security policies.
Salary: $173,602/yr. To Apply: Submit resume on www.jobpostingtoday.com, using Job ID # following Job Title above. Background checks req’d.
Tax Manager, Pesta Finnie & Associates, LLP, Charlotte, NC. May telecom frm Charlotte, NC area & wrk at wrksite at least 2 days/wk unlss apprvd by mgmt. Rev fed corp (subch C & subch S) & ptnrshp multi-state tax retrns. Perf incharge role as needed. Reqs Mast in Accntg / rel / equiv. Mst hve passd all 4 prts of CPA exm. Reqs < 2% US trvl. Apply: res to: dpesta@pestafinnie.com & reference job #116938.
Vice President of Operations wanted by Current Wireless Solutions, LLC in Charlotte, NC. Own all aspects of the co’s performance in serviced mkts. Responsible for activities related to the co fin’ls, service & installation of wireless eqpmt across multiple vendors. Assist mkt leaders for the co. w/ installation help, standard rigging practices, crane usage or the need for structural integrity strengthening. Monitor mkt KPI’s. Establish & deliver performance to the mkt’s annual Plan. Provide forecasts & updates of “actual vs plan”. Forecast staffing needs for increased volume. Retain, recruit & train employees. Reqs up to 8% domestic travel. Reqs: Bach’s deg (or foreign equiv) in any field. Reqs 3 yrs of exp in the job offered or as a construction manager in telecommunications infrastructure & systems industry. Must have 3 yrs exp using Ericsson United, Talon view, ESR, CCI Sites, Siteterra, & SBA Portal. Send resume to margaret.candiano@currentcomm.com & list position title in Subject.
Finance Lead NORAM, Clariant Corporation, Charlotte, NC. May telecom up to 2 days/wk w/in commut dist of co loc. Prov fin ldrship & ovrsight to all corp funct & oper on mattrs of acctg (incl site/cost acctg), fin rptg, intrnl cntrls, auditng, tax, & treas. Supv 10 dir rprts. Reqs Bach in Fin, Bus / rel / equiv. Reqs 10 yrs fin exp in multi-natl corp to incl 10 yrs: wrkng & oper in a mtrix struct w/in shard serv & cntrs of exp modl; ldrship exp in a blue-chip ind, mfg / B2B fin env; w/ a substntl invest prog (i.e. > than 5% equty/ co debt/ prtnrshp/ jv), M&A, & portf mgmt; use intl & intrcult compntcies to be eff in bus of scale & cmplxty. M-F, 8a - 5p. Reqs 30% US & 10% intl trvl. Send res to: hannah.andrepont@ clariant.com and ref job #116756.
Spanish Immersion Teacher (Elementary, K-6), Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (Multi Opngs), Charlotte, NC. As part of dual lang prog, prep Span lang less & deliv K-6 stud instr. M-F, 9:15a - 4:15p w/ occ aft hrs. Reqs bach in Edu/rel/equiv. Reqs fluncy in Span & Eng. Mst have/ elig for NC Elem Edu (K-6) lic. Hires mst cnsnt to drg scrn & bg chck. Apply: res to: robert.ellyson@cms.k12.nc.us & ref #116799.
