INDIAN TRAIL – The Indian Trail Town Council has directed staff to move forward with phase 2B of Chestnut Square Park, which includes carving up some space for a community center.
Town Manager Adam McLamb said the council has allotted $7.2
Let's celebrate
Event billed as largest drone show in NC, 2A
We're united McIntyre reflects on meaning of season, 1B
Yummy
Try some new peanut recipes, 1B
Long journey
Novel explores immigration, 3B
million for phase 2 of the park.
The town has already spent $3 million on phase 2A, which included adding parking, moving a pond and clearing trees. The remaining $4.2 million will go to Phase 2B, which will build a turf field, add more parking and grade the area where a community center could go.
INDIAN TRAIL – Jerome Sutton was a fixture outside Sun Valley Middle for 30 years, ensuring students could safely walk to and from school. The town will honor the former crossing guard in a unique way.
Treeside Lane will become Jerome Sutton Way after a unanimous vote by the Indian Trail Town Council.
“Jerome Sutton has made significant contributions to the Town of Indian Trail and its community,” according to the ordinance passed June 24. “Jerome Sutton worked as a crossing guard at Sun Valley Middle School for 30 years and during his tenure saved two students’ lives from being hit by a speeding car by stepping in front of the vehicle and protecting the children.”
Council Member Clarence Alsobrooks brought the idea to colleagues on June 10 of doing something to honor Sutton after
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MONROE – A developer is seeking flexibility from Union County that would allow him to welcome companies that operate before 9 a.m. About six years ago, commissioners rezoned about 3.21 acres at Beulah Church Road and WaxhawIndian Trail Church Road to a community business district but with the condition that limited operating hours from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Getting direction from the council on June 24 will allow staff to return to the next meeting with a design contract.
“Everything but the community center is funded right now,” McLamb told the council June 24. “We just need council to tell us yes, move forward. We can bring that revised design contract to you so that we can do that design work. We’ll use the money
R. Dean Harrell said companies are interested in his location but they have raised concerns about the operating hours. Harrell has asked the county to allow companies to operate from 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. He gave examples of a veterinarian and coffee/ doughnut shop that wanted to open as early as 6:30 a.m. to attract business before 9 a.m. He also mentioned a deli interested in operating from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Town inches toward community center
that’s already appropriated for the project, and then we would move forward into construction.”
Council Member Tom Amburgey initially pushed back on the idea, questioning if the town should be spending money on a community center that’s a hypothetical project.
Sign of gratitude
Indian Trail to honor school crossing guard
Developer wants more flexible operating hours
“We’ve got a little range there, but right now, 9 to 9 just seems to be that slot where nobody works for nobody,” Harrell said during the June 16 public hearing. He has agreed to two additional conditions, including that trash and
Council Member Marcus McIntyre sensed the council was talking in circles.
“I don’t know how much more grading they have to do, but while they’re going to put the soccer field, I say they should prep the
“I don’t think that we should spend any money toward the project,” Amburgey said. “It’s not funded or approved by council.”
Powerful words in America's declaration
We’re coming up on our 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
I think we’ve got an opportunity to really reflect on the courage and the conviction that made that signing possible.
If you look through the Declaration, you’re going to see the famous words that we can probably all recite by heart. You’re going to see where it says, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.”
Those are very powerful words that no doubt have inspired many of us and generations. But I think that far fewer folks really recognize the final sentence of the Declaration of Independence.
That’s where the signers stated: “And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.”
That statement has resonated with me, especially lately as we approach the Fourth, because those were not empty words.
The 56 men who signed the Declaration of Independence knew that they were committing an act of treason against the most powerful empire on Earth at that time. Many of them lost their wealth. They lost their homes. Some of them were imprisoned. Their families suffered hardship. Some paid the ultimate price.
They understood that freedom is never free and that liberty requires great sacrifice.
I would just say that as we celebrate Independence Day, the 250th anniversary, with our families and our friends, and as we attend these events that are happening all over our county, our state and our nation, as we watch fireworks, as we hold our families close, I think we should honor their example by recommitting ourselves to the principles which our nation was founded, and that’s faith, freedom, personal responsibility and even self-government.
The Declaration was not merely a statement of independence. It was a pledge of commitment.
Two hundred fifty years later, the question is whether we are willing to renew that commitment to preserve, protect and strengthen our great nation for future generations.
County Commissioner Brian Helms made these remarks at the June 16 board meeting.
Mayor Michael Alvarez presented Jerome Sutton with a key to the town on Dec. 4, 2016, which was also proclaimed Jerome Sutton Day. The longtime crossing guard was also honored during a town parade.
Photos courtesy of Union County Public Schools
by Brian Helms County Commissioner
Helms
Charlotte celebration includes drones
CHARLOTTE
– The Charlotte Symphony, Charlotte Knights and Charlotte Center City Partners will present a multi-layered Salute to America 250 on July 4 at Romare Bearden Park and Truist Field.
First, head to Romare Bearden Park in Uptown Charlotte on July 4 to celebrate America 250 with free performances and entertainment on the stage near Graham Street and a fireworks/drone show finale. The celebrations will begin at 4:30 p.m. America 250: Charlotte is presented by Coca-Cola Consolidated in partnership with the City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County Parks and Recreation.
“We are excited for the
opportunity to come together as a community to celebrate this milestone for our nation,” said Michael Smith, CEO of Charlotte Center City Partners. “As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, we are proud to stand with our partners and sponsors in creating a vibrant, engaging celebration that reflects our shared story.”
Inside Truist Field, the evening’s marquee event features a concert by the Charlotte Symphony in partnership with the Charlotte Knights, presented by Truist Bank. The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra performance is led by Kwamé Ryan, with an opening act
Chaplains deploy to Venezuela following earthquakes
CHARLOTTE – The Billy Graham Rapid Response Team is deploying alongside Samaritan’s Purse to Caracas, Venezuela, following earthquakes that impacted the area on June 24.
Two earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitudes, struck less than one minute apart, causing widespread destruction and collapsing buildings in the capital city and surrounding communities.
Billy Graham Rapid Response Team chaplains are deploying to offer emotional and spiritual care to survivors, grieving families and first responders.
“Our hearts break for the people of Venezuela as they begin to navigate the overwhelming loss and devastation left behind by these earthquakes,” said Josh Holland, vice president of BG-RRT Global. “So many families have lost loved ones, homes and any sense of normalcy. Our chaplains will walk alongside those who are grieving,
pointing them to the light and hope of Jesus Christ during one of the darkest times of their lives. As Isaiah 41:10 reminds us, ‘Do not fear, for I am with you... I will strengthen you and help you.’ We pray that those words become a source of comfort for many in the days ahead.”
The BG-RRT deploys to natural disasters in coordination with Samaritan’s Purse, the Christian disaster relief organization also led by Franklin Graham. Together, the two ministries will address the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of those who were impacted.
In addition to Venezuela, chaplains are ministering in southern Mississippi and Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana, following severe flooding, and in Charleston, Illinois, following a tornado.
The BG-RRT also continues to offer emotional and spiritual care to families who have been forced to flee their homes in war-torn Ukraine.
featuring the North Carolina String Band All-Stars. Attendees will hear a performance that celebrates the spirit and sound of American music, from John Williams to Gershwin and Sousa. Gates open at 6 p.m. It all culminates with the WBT Skyshow program and fireworks, as well as the largest drone show in the Carolinas, presented by CocaCola Consolidated. Tickets start at $25.
Attendees in Romare Bearden Park will enjoy entertainment starting at 4:30 p.m. They can expect food trucks nearby on MLK Jr. Boulevard and Third Street, a kids’ zone and activities hosted by Coca-Cola Consolidated. The
evening’s concert will also be simulcast in Romare Bearden Park and will be sponsored by Bank of America. Attendees will then have a great view of the fireworks and drone show.
Want to go?
• Parking: Nearby decks at 420 S. Church St., 330 S. Tryon St., 401 S. Church St., 207 S. Church St., 415 S. Mint St.
• Bus Stop: CTC/Arena (10-minute walk)
• Light Rail: 3rd St./Convention Center Stop (6-minute walk) Learn more about America 250: Charlotte at uptowncharlotte.com/ do/america-250-charlotte.
NEWS BRIEFS
Vehicle crashes into home
MONROE – The North Carolina State Highway Patrol is investigating how a GMC Yukon left the roadway and crashed into a home recently near the 4400 block of Plyler Mill Road.
Deputies with the Union County Sheriff’s Office responded to the crash. The agency said the homeowners were inside at the time of the crash but were not injured, according to the sheriff’s office.
The male driver and female passenger fled the scene, according to the sheriff’s office. The agency named Gustavo Sanchez and Naesha Baucom as occupants of the vehicle.
Sanchez was arrested on charges of felony hit and run (personal injury) and driving while license revoked (impaired revocation).
Man charged in homicide
WAXHAW – Authorities are investigating the fatal shooting of Larisa Pak.
Deputies with the Union County Sheriff’s Office responded to a welfare check at Pak’s home in the 9000 block of Mini Ranch Road at about 4:57 p.m. June 28. They found her with multiple gunshot wounds to the chest.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department told the sheriff’s office that Pak’s son, Slava Pak, turned himself in after saying he had committed a crime, according to the sheriff's office.
While detectives were processing the scene, they received notification of an additional welfare check from the Chester County Sheriff’s Office regarding Larisa Pak. The Chester County Sheriff’s Office was investigating a separate shooting in which Slava Pak was identified as a suspect. The victim in that incident survived.
Slava Pak was arrested on charges of first-degree murder.
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land to keep it open for the proposed community center,” McIntyre said.
“You’re going to have dozers and all these things out there. Why not just make it flat? That’s all this is doing.”
McLamb assured council members that it’s their decision how to move forward. They were just grading the area where a potential community center could go.
“If council chooses to move forward with that project, we have a location now where we know it can go,” McLamb said.
“If council was to choose or a future council was to choose not to move forward with that project, something else could be put in that pad location.”
The vote to move forward was unanimous, though Crystal Buchaluk was not in attendance.
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he had run into the former crossing guard at a family gathering. Sutton is friends with his uncle.
“I didn’t have any kids at Sun Valley Middle School, but I loved seeing the guy when I went by,” Alsobrooks said.
While Wesley Chapel Road is a state road, the intersecting Treeside Lane is under the town’s jurisdiction. It connects Harvest Red Road to Wesley Chapel Road.
“That’s a way to memorialize him and the things that he did but do it in a way that we have
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recycling pickup occur between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
He also agreed to make any privacy fence from solid materials to reduce noise.
Both county staff and the planning board are recommending approval.
“This gives them additional flexibility, makes it more feasible to develop, obviously affects the tax base and makes it more
Anyone with information regarding this investigation is encouraged to contact the Union County Sheriff’s Office at 704-283-3789 or Union County Crime Stoppers at 704-2835600.
Land deal to facilitate McGee Corporation move
MONROE – Union County commissioners held a public hearing June 16 on conveying 60.97 acres within the Union County Industrial Park to McGee Corporation.
This would allow the manufacturer to move from Stallings to the site off Goldmine Road.
“This land was purchased in 2019 for industrial and commercial development,” Deputy County Manager Patrick Niland told commissioners. “We sold off 124 acres immediately. There’s about 160 acres remaining. This would be 60 acres from that 160 acres.”
Niland said McGee Corporation intends to build a 366,000-squarefoot manufacturing center there. The sale would be for $4,267,000, or about $70,000 per acre, Niland said.
Town of Waxhaw announces Independence Day schedule
WAXHAW – The Town of Waxhaw’s administrative offices will be closed on Friday, July 3, in observance of the Independence Day holiday.
Town parks will be open. The Recreation Barn and Learning Center will be closed. Downtown Park will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on July 4.
Trash and recycling service will not experience any disruptions since the holiday falls on Saturday.
Emergency services are always available by calling 911.
The town will host an America 250 Independence Day Parade at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 4, in downtown Waxhaw. The parade will feature floats, community groups and music.
“I have no qualms about a community center,” Amburgey said later during his council member comments. “I just know that we have pressing issues with Indian Trail Road complete street. It’s been on the books forever and a day and we can’t seem to get it going. I just think that we have our priorities a little mixed up with our getting around town better.”
Mayor David Cohn said in his closing remarks that a lot of people in Indian Trail used to be against parks. But in hindsight, Cohn believes building parks was one of the best things previous councils did.
“When we talk about a community center, we’re talking about the future of our town,” Cohn said. “By no means do we want to take anything away from roads or anything else to build a community center. Hopefully, we can raise that money.”
the control as the town to do because it is a townmaintained street,” Town Manager Adam McLamb told council.
The town took similar action in 2019 after the death of Capt. Chase Coble of the Union County Sheriff’s Office. The road leading up to town hall is called Chase Coble Circle.
“That’s something that you’ll see forever as you go by,” Mayor David Cohn said June 10. “If you put a little plaque or something out there, nobody will ever see it. It’s kind of like Chase’s name out here on the boulevard. I see it every time and think of him."
convenient for people to live in the area,” said Bjorn Hansen, senior planner for Union County. “It can meet our development standards, and the changes that are proposed are fairly minor. Any impacts have been accommodated in the conditions and the overall site plan.” Commissioners closed the public hearing. They are scheduled to meet next on July 20.
Visit waxhaw.com/july4parade for details.
Union County teams do well in Wells Fargo Cup
CHAPEL HILL – Union County schools had strong showings in the final Wells Fargo State Cup standings.
UCPS member schools Marvin Ridge, Weddington and Cuthbertson placed second, third and fourth, respectively, in 7A. Marvin Ridge trailed the champion by 32.5 points.
Outside of UCPS, Union Academy came in third place in 3A.
State cup points are earned for top eight finishes and playoffs qualifications relative to a school’s classification. Schools accumulate points through each academic year’s fall, winter and spring seasons On the web: nchsaa.org/wellsfargo-cup.
I-485 toll rates adjusted to keep traffic moving
CHARLOTTE – The North Carolina Turnpike Authority is adjusting select toll rates for the I-485 Express Lanes to help maintain reliable and predictable travel times as demand grows.
NCTA began implementing limited toll rate changes June 29 in five segments of the I-485 Express Lanes during peak travel times. In lower-demand areas and times, some rates will be reduced to better balance traffic flow along the corridor. In higher-demand areas and times, some rates will increase by no more than $0.25 per segment.
The I-485 Express Lanes have seen over 750,000 total trips taken since opening in late February.
Customers with an NC Quick Pass can save 50% on North Carolina tolls and can pay tolls electronically in 19 states. Learn more at ncquickpass. com. On the web: ncdot.gov/ projects/i-485-express-lanes
McIntyre offers perspective on the Fourth
by Marcus McIntyre Town Council Member
As we close the meeting, I’d like to leave you guys with a few thoughts.
First, I want to remind everyone that our annual Independence Day Parade is right around the corner. The parade begins at 10 a.m. on July 4, and I encourage everyone to come out with your family, friends and neighbors as we celebrate one of our nation’s most cherished traditions.
This year carries very special
meaning as America celebrates 250 years of independence.
For two and a half centuries, the ideals expressed in the Declaration of Independence have inspired generations. I took my sons up there a few years ago to actually see the document that still keeps this country going, that forms the government and organizes us.
Those timeless words that “all men are created equal, and our continued pursuit of a more perfect union,” still speak to us today. They remind us that America has never been about perfection, but about progress. It is about people from every walk of life coming together in the pursuit of liberty, justice, opportunity and the common good.
As an immigrant, but now a citizen, I have a deep reverence for this country, for the men and women who have sacrificed to preserve our freedoms – the War of Independence being one of them – and for the enduring principles upon which this nation was founded.
While we may not always agree, we remain united by something greater than ourselves: our shared belief in liberty, opportunity and the hope that each generation can leave this nation stronger than it found it.
Marcus McIntyre, of the Indian Trail Town Council, made these remarks during the June 24 board meeting.
County observes America 250 Month
MONROE – Union County commissioners recently approved a proclamation recognizing July as America 250 Month in honor of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence signing.
The proclamation urges residents to “participate in activities that honor our history and promote civic pride and community unity.”
America 250 Month 2026
Proclamation by the Union County Board of Commissioners
WHEREAS, on July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was signed, establishing the United States of America and laying the foundation for the principles of liberty, equality, and democracy; and
WHEREAS, on July 4, 2026, our nation will celebrate the 250th anniversary of this historic event, known nationwide as “America 250”; and WHEREAS, Union County, formed in 1842, has contributed proudly and significantly to the history of our nation and our state, and will continue to do through our vision of a safe, healthy and rural community for residents and businesses to learn, progress, and thrive; and WHEREAS, America 250 provides an
opportunity to reflect on our country’s founding principles and honor the progress and resilience of our community; and WHEREAS, participating in commemorative activities across Union County and its numerous municipalities will help ensure a meaningful remembrance of our shared past and inspire civic engagement for all Union County residents; and
WHEREAS, Union County Board of Commissioners encourages and supports this historic milestone by the organization and promotion of community events and programs to reaffirm our commitment to the principles and ideals upon which the country was founded; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED by the Union County Board of Commissioners
that July 2026 shall be known as “America 250 Month” in Union County, North Carolina, and the Union County Board of Commissioners urges Union County residents to participate in activities that honor our history and promote civic pride and community unity. Adopted the 16th day of June, 2026.
McIntyre
Citizens read the U.S. Constitution, Bill of Rights and Declaration of Independence at the Charters of Freedom installation at Monroe Plaza. There’s also another display in Waxhaw. Photo courtesy of Foundation Forward
Sustain Charlotte releases I-77 South Mobility Report
CHARLOTTE – Sustain
Charlotte has released a new report, A Better Way Forward: Strategies to Improve Mobility, Reliability, and Safety on I-77 South, outlining a set of recommendations to improve one of the Charlotte region’s most important transportation corridors.
I-77 South serves commuters, freight movement, regional economic activity and daily travel between Mecklenburg County, York County and the broader Charlotte metropolitan area. As the region continues to grow, the corridor faces worsening congestion, unreliable travel times and safety concerns.
The report concludes that I-77 South’s challenges are real but more complex than a simple shortage of lanes. Some congestion is caused by traffic demand exceeding available roadway capacity. Other congestion results from operational turbulence, including short merge lanes, weaving movements, sudden braking, crashes, stalled vehicles, closely spaced entrances and exits, and inconsistent speeds.
“Improving I-77 South requires a more complete strategy than simply adding lanes,” said Shannon Binns, founder and executive director of Sustain Charlotte. “The region should evaluate practical operational improvements, stronger transit options, demand-management strategies, targeted ramp and interchange modernization, and long-term opportunities to reconnect communities. These tools are already being used in peer regions across the country, and many can be evaluated or piloted much sooner than a major highway expansion.”
The report recommends that state lawmakers and the North Carolina Board of Transportation work closely with the Charlotte Regional Transportation Planning Organization board members, the City of Charlotte, Mecklenburg
County, regional jurisdictions and other partners to evaluate and implement the recommendations without delay.
Key recommendations
1. Evaluate ramp metering at key bottlenecks
Ramp metering uses traffic signals on highway entrance ramps to control how quickly vehicles enter the freeway. By spacing vehicles before they merge, ramp metering can reduce turbulence, improve travel-time reliability, reduce stop-and-go traffic breakdowns and improve safety at key bottlenecks.
2. Modernize ramps and interchanges without expanding the highway footprint
Many ramps and interchanges along older urban freeways were not designed for today’s traffic volumes, vehicle speeds, safety standards or multimodal needs.
The report recommends evaluating targeted ramp, interchange and bottleneck improvements that reduce weaving, improve safety, simplify confusing movements, improve bicycle and pedestrian crossings, and avoid expanding into adjacent neighborhoods, parks, greenways, cemeteries or other valuable community assets.
The report also recommends evaluating ramp consolidation, ramp removal and right-sizing opportunities where they could reduce conflict points, improve local connectivity and reclaim land for public benefit.
3. Deploy Active Traffic Management Active Traffic Management uses real-time technology to manage traffic conditions. Strategies can include variable speed limits, lanecontrol signs, real-time incident warnings, queue warnings, dynamic shoulder use and traveler information systems. These tools can improve safety and reliability, particularly in corridors with
frequent incidents, heavy merging and variable speeds.
4. Pilot Bus on Shoulder operations on I-77 South North Carolina already operates Bus on Shoulder service in the Triangle region. The report recommends evaluating a Charlotte-region Bus on Shoulder pilot for I-77 South, in combination with express bus service, park-and-ride facilities and ramp metering. This strategy could help buses bypass congestion during peak periods and provide more reliable travel times for riders.
5. Preserve and expand regional express bus service
Existing bus service in the I-77 South corridor is limited. The report recommends improving regional express bus service connecting Rock Hill, Fort Mill, Pineville, Ballantyne, South End and Uptown Charlotte. Potential improvements include more frequent all-day and peakperiod service, park-and-ride facilities, direct service to major employment centers, queue jumps, transit priority treatments and future Bus Rapid Transit infrastructure.
6. Implement Transportation Demand Management Transportation Demand Management strategies reduce single-occupancy vehicle trips, especially during peak commute periods. The report recommends employer-based strategies such as transit passes, vanpool and carpool incentives, preferential parking, parking cash-out programs, pretax commuter benefits, guaranteed ride home programs, hybrid work policies, staggered start times, park-and-ride partnerships and commuter marketing.
These strategies can begin before major infrastructure projects are complete and can make other transportation
investments more effective.
7. Advance the Blue Line extension and evaluate future high-capacity transit connections south
The report recommends continuing to prioritize the planned Blue Line extension to Pineville and Ballantyne while also evaluating whether longterm high-capacity transit should extend farther south toward Fort Mill and Rock Hill.
Options that deserve evaluation include a southern Blue Line extension or branch, Bus Rapid Transit between Rock Hill/Fort Mill and the I-485 Blue Line station, and phased combinations of these strategies.
8. Study regional commuter rail options
The report recommends evaluating whether regional commuter rail could connect Rock Hill, Fort Mill, Pineville and Uptown Charlotte using existing rail corridors where feasible.
Options should include shared use of existing Norfolk Southern tracks, dedicated passenger tracks within or adjacent to existing rail corridors, regional rail service with more frequent all-day operations or preservation of a separate passenger rail corridor if shared or parallel use is infeasible.
9. Evaluate highway capping, tunneling, ramp right-sizing, and community reconnection opportunities
Selective highway capping, tunneling, ramp right-sizing, and land reclamation could reconnect neighborhoods divided by highway infrastructure while creating opportunities for public space, development, safer walking and biking connections, and longterm economic value.
The report notes that Charlotte’s Reconnecting the West End study is already exploring how ramp and interchange redesign can support
community repair near I-77 and Uptown. Similar opportunities should be evaluated along I-77 South where appropriate.
Regional plans already point toward high-capacity transit
The report also notes that highcapacity transit in the I-77 South / U.S. 21 corridor is not a new idea.
Regional planning efforts dating back to 1988 have identified the need for stronger transit connections between Charlotte and communities to the south.
More recently, CONNECT Beyond identified the I-77 South corridor as a high-capacity transit corridor between Uptown Charlotte and Downtown Rock Hill, with connections to Fort Mill and surrounding communities.
Beyond 77 also identified regional high-capacity transit and dedicated bus lanes as part of the corridor’s mobility toolbox.
“The path forward is not a mystery,” Binns said. “For decades, regional planning efforts have pointed toward the same conclusion: growing congestion on I-77 South cannot be solved by highway expansion alone. High-capacity transit and other multimodal strategies have been recommended repeatedly. The question now is whether the region’s leaders are ready to act.”
Sustain Charlotte urges state lawmakers and the North Carolina Board of Transportation to work closely with CRTPO board members, the City of Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and regional partners to evaluate these recommendations quickly and transparently. The organization also encourages decision-makers to measure future transportation investments not only by vehicle speed, but by their ability to improve safety, move people efficiently, provide reliable travel choices, support economic opportunity, reconnect communities and strengthen the region for future generations.
MINUTES FROM BALLANTYNE
MODERN, ELEVATED LIVING
FEATURE IMPACT healthy brain goes beyond reading exercises and completing puzzles – it extends to the kitchen, too.
Emerging nutritional science is clear that what people eat doesn’t just fuel the body; it shapes memory, mood and cognitive health.
Among the foods you can include in your diet to give your brain a boost are peanuts and peanut butter, staples valued not only for their convenience but also for their cognitive benefits.
In fact, a study published in the “Journal of the Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease” found adults
60-80 years old who did not eat peanuts and peanut butter regularly were 30-50% more likely to perform poorly on tests measuring learning, memory, language, processing motor speed and attentiveness compared to those who did consumer peanuts and peanut butter.
It’s not just the older generation that can benefit. According to research published in “Clinical Nutrition,” a study of college students ages 18-33 showed consumption of peanuts and peanut butter was associated with improved memory function and decreased anxiety, depression and stress.
Consider this key information from the Georgia Peanut Commission before your next meal planning session.
Nutrients that Give the Brain a Boost
Despite their small stature, peanuts pack a nutrition punch. Their unique blend of various vitamins, minerals and bioactive compounds includes:
n Niacin, which can slow cognitive decline and reduce the risk for Alzheimer’s disease, according to the “Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry”
n Vitamin E, found to promote healthy brain aging and delay cognitive decline
n Resveratrol, believed to be beneficial in fighting against Alzheimer’s disease and other nerve degenerating diseases, per the “Journal of Biological Chemistry”
n P-coumaric acid, an antioxidant that appears to target the neurotransmitters in the brain that regulate mood, stress and anxiety
Peace of MIND
Peanuts are included in the MIND diet, a combination of the Mediterranean and DASH diets, which specifically includes foods shown to benefit the brain.
Adding peanuts to your menu can be a breeze. Look no further than a powerful main course like Crunchy and Creamy Cold Green Pea and Peanut Salad, a perfect accompaniment at potlucks and cookouts as an easy side or light main course. Make breakfast-on-the-go part of your daily commute with Flourless Blueberry Muffins that require just five ingredients, including creamy peanut butter, or add a pinch of protein to snack time with Protein Balls that can be refrigerated until hunger strikes.
Brain Food for Thought
Supporting your brain starts with the right nutrition, and evidence makes clear peanuts and peanut butter should be top-of-mind as you head to the grocery store. For help getting started, find more recipes and nutritional information by visiting GAPeanuts.com.
Start thinking about brain health
CHARLOTTE – The Ivey Brain Health & Memory Wellness Center is encouraging individuals and families to prioritize lifelong brain health through education, healthy habits, early awareness and meaningful community support.
Conversations about Alzheimer’s disease and brain health continue to evolve, and while Alzheimer’s remains an important public health concern, brain health begins long before a diagnosis. Experts increasingly recognize the role that social connection, physical activity, quality sleep, nutrition, stress management and cognitive engagement play in supporting overall cognitive wellness throughout life.
“Awareness and education are some of the most powerful tools we have when it comes to brain health,” said Lynn Ivey, CEO and founder of The Ivey. “For many families, receiving an Alzheimer’s or dementia diagnosis can feel overwhelming and isolating. Our goal is to create a community where individuals feel supported,
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empowered and reminded that they are not alone.”
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, changes in the brain associated with Alzheimer’s disease can begin years before symptoms appear, reinforcing the importance of proactive education, healthy lifestyle habits and early intervention.
Through specialized programming focused on socialization, movement, cognitive engagement and emotional wellness, The Ivey works to support individuals living with memory and cognition challenges while also offering support and guidance for caregivers.
“People often ask when they should start thinking seriously about brain health,” Ivey said. “The answer is simple: now.
It’s never too early – and it’s never too late – to take steps that support cognitive wellness.”
Since opening more than 16 years ago, The Ivey has continued advocating for a more compassionate and informed approach to dementia care. Programs are designed to encourage mental, physical and
social well-being through structured activities.
Stigma continues to prevent some families from seeking early support.
“There was a time when dementia was rarely discussed openly,” Ivey said. “Families often felt pressure to quietly manage the challenges on their own.
“Thankfully, we’ve seen progress over the years, but there is still more work to do in helping people understand that individuals living with cognitive decline still deserve joy, conversation, purpose and community. Removing stigma helps people seek help earlier, access resources sooner and recognize that a diagnosis does not diminish a person’s value and dignity.”
Because cognitive decline affects the entire family, The Ivey also emphasizes the importance of caregiver wellness, recognizing the physical and emotional demands often placed on families caring for loved ones with dementia-related illnesses.
On the web: theivey. com/programs
Novel explores immigrant experience
CHARLOTTE – Years of teaching, living on a working farm and raising three sons provided Penny S. Ledbetter with much inspiration for her writing. The concept for the middle-grade historical novel, “De Lange Reis: The Long Journey,” grew from the need to share the immigrant experience of her Dutch greatgrandparents and their nine children.
“Growing up, my family’s immigration story was heavily romanticized with imagery of Dutch almond cookies and fields of daffodils,” Ledbetter said. “But my research uncovered a much tougher reality. As the only surviving girl, my great-aunt Helena had to surrender her childhood to keep the household running and care for her younger brothers. I wrote this book to honor her actual strength and determination with an honest, vulnerable approach that history textbooks simply cannot replicate.”
By connecting historical struggles with modern themes like relocation, family conflict, illness and friendship, “De Lange
Reis,” explores immigrants’ pursuit of safety and prosperity, drawing parallels between 20th-century agrarian struggles and modern 21st-century immigration.
From the moment 8-year-old Helena Swart leaves the Netherlands in 1912 to immigrate to the United States, she is full of questions. What will America be like? Will my family be happy there? Will I make new friends? And will I ever see my best friend, Sofie, again?
After a grueling 10-day voyage on an overcrowded ship, Helena must quickly adjust to her new life: practicing English, milking cows and churning butter, tending crops, and cooking and cleaning endlessly. With eight brothers to care for and no sisters to keep her company, Helena often wonders if she’ll ever find her way.
“History becomes real for young readers as they see Helena live it out in real-time,” Ledbetter said. “Through her experiences, the reader can see how immigration affected the lives of those during that time period. She becomes familiar, not someone from long ago.”
“De Lange Reis: The Long Journey” is published by Warren Publishing.
200, Charlotte, NC 28213.
Data & Analytics Sr Data Delivery Manager, F/T at Truist Bank (Charlotte, NC)
Responsible for the end-to-end delivery of data content & data mgmt capabilities to a business units or functional area. Responsible for the dvlpmt & on-going mgmt of data assets or solutions aligned to those same business units & functional areas. Must have Bach’s deg in Comp Sci, MIS, Analytics, Data Science or rltd field. Must have 10 yrs of progressive exp in data analytics or data mgmt positions. Must have at least 6 yrs of exp working w/in the fin’l services industry performing the following: Working as an advisor to fin’l services organizations; Driving data execution, incl data engg, s/ware delivery, business intelligence & reporting, & master & reference data mgmt; Meeting regulatory reporting obligations & operating in a highly regulatory environment; Leading a high performing team, incl identifying & recruiting talent, managing performance, mentoring, & making decisions about resource allocations according to predefined budgets, for F/T & contract resources across US & non-US locations; Using latest technologies for data ingestion, integration, transformation, storage, mining/warehousing, & advanced data analytics; Applying broad functional knowl in reqmt gathering, analysis, design, dvlpmt, testing, implmtn, & deployment of applications; Overall accts mgmt, incl basic acctg, accts growth, dvlpg strategies & roadmap for successful target completion; Managing profitability in business engagements by tracking work statements, budgeting entire proceedings, & providing optimum mgmt of time & resources; Collaborating w/ business units & technology service providers on delivery priorities & timelines; Communicating effectively w/ multiple business & IT stakeholders; & Utilizing exp w/ API & Microservices, MicroStrategy, Tableau, Java, AWS, Data Modeling, JIRA, & Traditional RDBMS (MS SQL Server). Must have 2 yrs of exp w/: Delivering IT solutions to business units that meet business reqmts in the assigned timeframe, incl IT/data reporting projects & target state technologies; & Planning & managing projects & solving complex problems by applying best practice. Position may be eligible to work hybrid/ remotely but is based out of & reports to Truist offices in Charlotte, NC. Must be available to travel to Charlotte, NC regularly for meetings & reviews w/ manager & project teams w/in 24-hrs’ notice. Apply online (https://careers.truist.com/) or email resume to recruitment@truist.com. Ref Job # R0115473.
Director, Oracle Supply Chain & Operations, PricewaterhouseCoopers Advisory Services LLC, Charlotte, NC. Lead engagements leveraging Oracle applicationbased solutions, focusing on selling, executing, and managing complex projects within the Oracle product suite. Req. Bach’s deg or frgn equiv in Engg., Info Sys, Supply Chain, Mgmt or a rel fld + 7 yrs of rel wrk exp. of which at least 5 yrs mst be pst-bach prgrssv rel wrk exp.; or a Mstr’s deg or
Chain Mgmt or
telecommuting permitted. Must be able to commute to a designated local office. Domestic and/ or international travel up to 80% required. Sal. range: $233,000- $293,000 / Yr. Please apply by sending your resume to US_PwC_Career_Recruitment@pwc.com , specifying Job Code NC4954 in the subject line.
Ledbetter
Causey: Celebrate America’s 250th birthday in a fun, safe way
by Mike Causey Insurance Commissioner
We’re celebrating the United States’ 250th birthday on July 4. It will be a great celebration for a great nation. Festivities will include firing up the backyard grill and viewing fireworks.
As we celebrate our 250th birthday, I encourage you to leave fireworks to the professionals. Many cities, towns and communities across North Carolina have fireworks displays over the Independence Day holiday.
I understand that many want to have their own backyard displays. If you choose to do that, please follow these fireworks safety tips:
• Never let children light fireworks or use sparklers unattended.
• Use fireworks in a clear area outdoors, away from dry leaves, people, pets, buildings, vehicles, overhead obstructions or anything combustible. Be aware of windy or drought conditions that could alter the trajectory of fireworks or start fires.
• Have a bucket of water or hose around in case of an unexpected fire or firework duds.
• Stabilize fireworks on the ground before lighting, preferably on a fire-safe surface such as a cement pad or a driveway. Never light a firework in your hand.
• Only light one firework at a time. Then move back quickly to a safe location.
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket. Never place any part of your body over a firework while lighting its fuse.
• Don’t pick up or try to re-light a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak them in water.
• Never throw or point fireworks at anyone or ignite fireworks in a container.
• Only purchase and use fireworks labeled for consumer (not professional) use. Grilling out hot dogs and burgers always makes for an enjoyable time with family and friends. I hope you’ll consider these commonsense safety tips when firing up your grill:
• Propane and charcoal grills should only be used outdoors.
• The grill should be placed far away from the home and deck railings.
• Never leave your grill unattended and always open the gas grill lid before lighting it.
• Douse all spent fireworks with water and then place them in a covered metal trash can away from buildings or combustibles until the next day.
• If using starter fluid, use
only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire. Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children.
• When you are finished grilling, let the coals cool completely before disposing of them in a metal container. If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department. Do not move the grill.
It’s our 250th birthday! Let’s give it the celebration it deserves. Let’s do it safely.
Mike Causey serves as insurance commissioner for North Carolina.
