CHARLOTTE – South Charlotte Partners will explore the challenges, opportunities and rapid changes shaping healthcare across the region at the next SCP Breakfast Club meeting.
Kaycee Kalpin, chief marketing officer of Premier, will moderate a panel discussion with Seth Goldwire, president of Atrium Health Union West, and Zack Landry, president of Novant Health
Matthews Medical Center.
They'll share insights on the healthcare landscape in South Charlotte, including hospital expansion strategies, shifting healthcare policies, workforce development, access to care and the growing competition among healthcare providers.
The conversation will also address the emergence of new healthcare organizations entering the market and what increased competition means
by Bill Forman Contributor
For more than three decades, the band moe. has managed a unique balancing act.
In the studio, the band members are meticulous craftsmen of concise, meaningful songs. But when they take to the concert circuit, they embark on wideopen explorations that showcase their signature improvisational skills without giving in to the temptation of aimless meandering. On tour, moe. finds a sweet spot in the middle that can appeal to hardcore fans and newcomers alike.
“Live is different because the band is so improvisational and in the moment, so you just have to be on your toes,” said relative newcomer Nate Wilson of the original members’ decades of developing a shared musical vocabulary that enables the band to shift directions on a dime. “You have to listen and react and not have an ego about things or try to push things in certain ways.”
While he is the newest face in the core lineup, Wilson’s history with the group stretches back to the late 1990s, evolving from a young admirer to a central creative force. His journey culminates in “Circle of Giants,”
moe. plays by key rule: Don't repeat the set
the band’s 14th studio album that was released on Jan. 31, 2025, just in time for moe.’s 35th anniversary.
The first studio album to feature Wilson, he plays keyboards and flute. “Circle of Giants” also includes three songs he wrote and sings. The album’s centerpiece is an eight-minute track called “Giants” that has been likened to Pink Floyd.
Since forming at the University at Buffalo in 1989, moe. has built a legacy on the road, merging the complex, technical oddities of Frank Zappa with the earthy, rootsy vibe of American rock.
Their 1996 breakthrough “No Doy” cemented their place in the jam band pantheon, while their self-run festival, moe.down has drawn international audiences with its downhome vibe and diverse performers.
The band faced its greatest challenge in 2021 when guitarist Chuck Garvey suffered a stroke, but his triumphant return to the stage in 2022 – and full reintegration since – has galvanized the group, sparking a renaissance that now includes Wilson as a permanent fixture.
For Wilson, that journey to the center of the moe. universe
for patients, employers and communities.
“Healthcare is one of the most important issues impacting the quality of life and economic vitality of our region,” said Christina Thigpen, board chair of South Charlotte Partners.
“South Charlotte continues to experience tremendous growth, and with that comes increased demand for healthcare services. This
Panel to discuss changes in healthcare
conversation will provide attendees with valuable insight into how healthcare leaders are preparing for the future while addressing the needs of our rapidly growing community.”
The meeting will be held from 8 to 9:30 a.m. July 30 at Hestia Rooftop in Ballantyne.
Tickets cost $25 in advance and $35 at the door.
Register for the event at eventbrite.com.
Jam bands to rock TD AMP
Friday Table builds
CHARLOTTE – The Friday Table welcomed more than 40 guests to its monthly community dinner June 26 at Brewers at 4001 Yancey, where founders announced the launch of the Confetti Membership.
The seasonal offer is designed to help people build community, creativity and meaningful relationships.
The Friday Table is a Charlotte-based network that brings people together through curated dinner series, workshops, corporate engagements and brand activations. Guided by its core values (Gather Intentionally, Build in Good Company and Make Cool Stuff), the organization creates experiences that connect creatives, entrepreneurs, community partners and neighbors through food, conversation and collaboration.
Best known for its monthly dinner series, each gathering features curated seating, family-style meals and a rotating format that spotlights a host venue, artist and chef.
“In a city growing as quickly as Charlotte, people are looking for new ways to connect and belong,” co-founder Danielle Rubin said. “When we share a meal, conversations deepen, ideas develop, businesses begin, artists are discovered and strangers become friends.”
The Friday Table began in spring 2025 with an intimate apartment dinner party hosted in the South Charlotte area. Initially designed as a gathering for friends, colleagues and creative partners, the dinners evolved into a community experience that helps people build meaningful relationships.
The company’s latest gathering, on June 26, featured three community spotlights. Brewers at 4001 Yancey was the host venue. Photographer Mase Crawford was the featured creative. Chef Joanna Adduci Reed, of The Garden Party Charlotte, was the featured chef.
“This is my first time at The Friday Table, and I am truly grateful for this moment and to be here,” Crawford said. “I believe my background has influenced my work, and in each piece you can see the contrast, the emotion and the energy that inspires my photography.”
by Bill Forman Contributor
Over the course of their 25-year career, Umphrey’s McGee’s praises have been sung by countless critics and musicians. But few have been as dear to the Indiana improv-rock group’s heart as those of Phil Lesh, the Grateful Dead co-founder who took the band under his wing early on.
“Phil was a creative genius, somebody we looked up to,” Umphrey’s keyboardist Joel Cummins said of their musical mentor, who passed away in October 2024. “He kind of embraced us, and not only sat
Chef Adduci Reed presented a seasonal menu inspired by local ingredients, fresh stone fruit and regional influences inspired by her culinary travels in Portugal and other countries, as well as relationships with 30 North Carolina farms.
The evening concluded with an announcement of the Confetti Membership, which includes curated dinners, local partner perks, companion invitations, members-only experiences and access to The Table After Dark.
“The dinner ends, but the community doesn’t,” co-founder Ani Asanga said. “The Confetti Membership was created for people who want more than a seat for one evening. It’s an invitation to belong, build relationships and continue gathering long after dessert is served.”
On the web: TheFridayTable.org
July 10 at TD
Ballantyne. Rahm Carrington photo
Zack Landry, president and chief operating officer of Novant Health Matthews Medical Center, speaks during a Jan. 24, 2025, ribbon cutting. Photo courtesy of Novant Health
North Carolina budget signed into law
by Alan Wooten Contributor
(The Center Square) – For the second time in nearly 11 years, North Carolina has a signed budget.
First-term Democratic Gov. Josh Stein on July 7 signed the $34.4 billion spending plan passed July 2 by the Republican majority General Assembly. The 2026 Appropriations Act, known also as Senate Bill 257, brings Hurricane Helene relief with $700 million and adds $450 million to the Savings Reserve in the General Fund –often called the rainy day fund – to lift its balance to more than $4.2 billion.
The state’s rapidly growing population of 11.2 million will get billions of dollars in tax cuts; have 8% average pay raises for teachers amid increases across the board for all state employees; and send more than $1 billion into funding the state’s Medicaid program.
“This budget bill gets a lot of things right,” Stein said in a signing ceremony. “It delivers the largest starting teacher pay raise in nearly 50 years and the largest overall teacher pay raise in the last 15 years. It protects healthcare for millions of North Carolinians by fully funding Medicaid. It gives double-digit pay raises to state law enforcement officers and bonuses to local law enforcement.
“It appropriates another $700 million to help people of western North Carolina continue their recovery from Hurricane Helene. The budget also makes meaningful investments in our community colleges, the DMV, childcare, and summer food programs for our kids. These are real wins worthy of celebration and worthy of my signature.”
The budget was due to be enacted July 1, 2025. The negotiations stalled and were not resolved until this spring and early summer. Lawmakers, in the interim, passed spending measures to bridge the gap.
And, a 2016 state law kept other resources funded through the most recent state budget.
“Our fiscal policies resulted in an incredible decade of success and economic growth,” said Sen. Phil Berger, R-Rockingham, the president pro tempore of the upper chamber. “Senate Republicans fought to secure a budget that would continue those efforts, and the budget Governor Stein signed does just that. It continues to slash tax rates for all North Carolinians and prioritize the needs of our citizens, not bureaucrats.”
Final passage was 35-10 in the Senate and 88-21 in the House of Representatives. In the upper chamber, no Republicans were against although three took excused absences; in the lower chamber, no Republicans were against and six took excused absences. Among Democrats, eight in the Senate and 21 in the House were for the bill. Two unaffiliated lawmakers in the House, formerly Democrats, were also in favor.
“Today, the best budget in decades becomes law, delivering historic raises for teachers and law enforcement, as well as tax relief for the working men and women of our state,” said House Speaker Destin Hall, R-Caldwell. “There is something in this budget for every North Carolinian, and the meaningful investments we’ve made will deliver real results that strengthen our communities, put more money back in people’s pockets, and improve lives across our state.”
began at New York City’s legendary Wetlands Preserve. At the time, Wilson was a member of the band Percy Hill, and his group frequently opened for moe., forging a bond that would eventually take him from support act to bandmate.
That early introduction led to a lifelong friendship, particularly with bassist Rob Derhak.
“I think I immediately hit it off with those guys as people,” Wilson said in a late-January interview. “Especially Rob, we have a very similar sense of humor, so we became fast friends.”
Over the decades, Wilson collaborated with the members of moe. on various side projects, including the ensemble known as Blue Star Radiation. By the time he officially joined the lineup, he
in with us, but also tapped us to open for Phil and Friends a few times. It was an incredible honor.”
In a recent interview, Cummins fondly recalled the first time Lesh joined Umphrey’s onstage.
“We were at the Great American Music Hall in San Francisco, which is kind of a classic venue for our scene, and we got word that he was going to come out to see the show. So we, of course, invited him to come play with us, and he came backstage during the break and looked through our covers list, which back then must have had 300 songs on it,” laughed the keyboardist. “And he’s going, ‘Man, I don’t know any of these,’ until he comes to [the Dead’s] “Franklin’s Tower,’ and he goes, ‘Well, I know THIS one.’
So Phil sang and played bass, and (guitarist) Jake (Cinninger) was busting out his best Jerry [Garcia] chops for Phil, who was
wasn’t just a “new guy.” He was a long-term peer who understood the band’s DNA from both sides of the stage.
“It’s hard for me to separate being a fan from being in the band because I met them so long ago,”
Wilson said. “So, I’ve basically been a fan and a friend for my entire adult life.”
For now, moe. is on tour. So what can fans expect to hear at the band’s upcoming tour stops? Your guess is as good as ours, which is as good as theirs. In other words, the band members have no idea.
Because moe.’s fanbase is famously dedicated, tracking every song, every transition and every repeat with the rigor of a baseball statistician, the band adheres to a strict “no-repeat” rule, ensuring that the set list for any given night is entirely unique from the shows surrounding it.
“I write the set list every fourth night because there are four of us
just loving it. He was so amused. It was really special.”
Like many groups on the jamband circuit, Umphrey’s McGee still take a page from the Grateful Dead playbook when it comes to lengthy onstage improvisations and a seemingly endless supply of live recordings.
Many of their concerts are available online the morning after the show, while a string of live albums are rivaling the frequency of the Dead’s archival “Dick’s Picks” releases. Take, for instance, the band’s 18-track “Hall of Fame” collection. Released in November 2024, it clocks in at more than 17 minutes per track, for a combined running time of 4 hours and 20 minutes.
But when it comes to the studio, both bands have leaned toward a more economical approach. Umphrey’s McGee’s 2022 release “Asking for a Friend” averaged just four and a half minutes per song, the same as The Grateful Dead album “Go To Heaven,” which was met with a mixed reaction from longtime
right now on the current rotation that handle it,” Wilson said. “The way the band is set up, you just have to play everything. We have to get deep into the catalog and we can’t repeat sets.”
If the band repeats a song too soon – usually within a four- or five-show window – the internet lets them know.
“The fans get angry if you break the rules,” Wilson said with a laugh. “It definitely comes from that Grateful Dead mentality, where fans will keep track and keep stats on every single song you play.”
Wilson says the band members have to look at what was played in previous cities to ensure they don’t repeat material for fans who might be following the entire tour.
“You are taking your chances because they will light you up on the internet if you break those rules,” he said. “There is some peril to be avoided there.”
Deadheads.
“I don’t really think about the length of the song,” Cummins said. “For me, it’s like ‘What are we trying to accomplish in the writing process?’ But we’re going to be turning that on its head a little bit with the next studio recording. It’s going to have multiple tracks that are over 15 minutes long.”
With that release still waiting in the wings, the group also recently released “Blueprints,” an album of recordings based on “improvisation themes” that audience members texted in real time during the band’s annual UMBowl show. Examples of the prompts, which were projected onto a large screen above the stage, include “Mongolian Throat Singing Meets Meshuggah,”
“Who Dosed Debussy?” and “Dark Industrial Dance Party, Berlin, 3AM.” And if all that weren’t enough, the band organized a “pilgrimage” for hardcore fans to go see the band perform a three-night run in Morocco in April 2025.
BAPS Mandir set for 2027 completion
MATTHEWS – Community leaders gathered May 31 for the Shilanyas Mahotsav (foundation stone laying ceremony) of the new BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir.
The ceremony featured traditional Vedic rituals, sacred shlokas and prayers conducted in the presence of senior BAPS Swamis, consecrating the earth and marking the beginning of a new spiritual home for the Charlotte region.
His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj blessed the Charlotte community on two occasions: in 1996, when he personally inaugurated the current BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Matthews, and again in 2000, offering prayers for the peace and progress of the entire region.
The community, which first took root here in the late 1970s, has since outgrown its current facility. Under the guidance of His Holiness Mahant Swami
Maharaj, the current spiritual leader of BAPS, the vision for a new, expanded Mandir has taken shape.
The new BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir will be a 72,000-square-foot, single-story building with traditional shikars and ghumtis crafted in India.
The campus will include:
• A main assembly hall seating about 1,000 people, with flexible space connecting to the dining hall and gymnasium for larger events
415 parking spaces and a fully gated, accessible campus
• 16 classrooms for youth education, cultural learning and community activities
• Dedicated spaces for daily darshan, arti, meditation and spiritual assemblies
Site preparation began in July 2024, with vertical construction to follow. Construction is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2027 and will be open
Gynecology practice changes its name
CHARLOTTE – Femwell
Gynecology & Wellness has rebranded as Femelle Gynecology and Wellness.
The name change, announced on Instagram, noted the company’s increased brand awareness caught the attention of a medical billing company with a similar name several states away. As Femwell prepared to enter its second year of practice, the doctors felt it was the perfect opportunity to begin the next chapter with a new name.
“It’s a new name and a new chapter,” said Dr. Nikki Parson, co-founder. “We thought it wise to clear up any ambiguity about who we are and the top-notch care we provide. Everyone at Femelle is committed to ensuring that our patients experience the
All of which is a far cry from the band’s humble beginnings, when they went six months without having monitors. “Other than the vocals, you were able to hear things pretty well,” Cummins said with a laugh.
“So when we got monitors, that definitely opened up some new channels where we were like, ‘Oh, I can hear what you’re doing now.”
A few years later, Umphrey’s McGee had another breakthrough after playing a friend’s wedding reception.
“It was in the Jimmy Stewart Ballroom at the Renaissance Hotel in Pittsburgh and there was also a Notre Dame football game, and by the end of it, we were pretty loose,” Cummins recalled.
“So we got the idea to go back down there to play. And when we got there, we thought, ‘Let’s turn the lights out, and then maybe they won’t know we’re here.’”
Probably not the most foolproof strategy, but the front desk didn’t get any complaints, and the band played on.
best possible health outcomes. We look forward to continuing to serve Charlotte and the surrounding vicinity with elite medical care and empowering candid conversations about women’s health.”
“Femelle” is the French word for “female.” Company officials said France’s history of gynecology evolved from early modern midwifery into a clinical science that established the first official schools for midwives in 1802.
“As Femelle, we have an opportunity to grow with greater clarity, reach more patients and continue elevating the standard for personalized gynecologic care in our community,” said cofounder Dr. Tiffany Bates.
“We ended up improvising in the dark, and it was this big moment for us where we kind of realized that we could really trust in our ears,” Cummins said. “And I feel like that was kind of the advent of us having some really good moments of improvisation in our shows.”
Two decades later, Umphrey’s McGee, which also includes guitarist/singer Brendan Bayliss, bassist Ryan Stasik, percussionist Andy Farag and new drummer Scotty Zwang (who has stepped in for the departing Kris Myers), have managed to outlive the countless bands that have aired their breakup stories on VH1’s “Behind the Music.”
“It certainly hasn’t always been easy, but I think there’s a very brotherly love and support system there,” said Cummins. “We all care about each other, and we still want to go out there and have fun and create interesting music together. And then the other part of that is, I have no idea what the hell else we would do.”
CMS board responds to state budget
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education released this statement July 7 in response to the state-adopted budget.
The salary increases for teachers and other statefunded education employees included in North Carolina’s new state budget represent a positive investment in North Carolina’s public education workforce.
to all, welcoming people of every faith and background.
Guided by Maharaj’s principle, “In the joy of others, lies our own,” BAPS volunteers in Matthews and Charlotte have served the community in many ways. Examples include:
• Annual Walk | Run event benefiting local and national organizations, including Susan G. Komen and The Nature Conservancy
• Blood drives, free health fairs and wellness screenings staffed by volunteer medical professionals
Food bank partnerships and hunger relief drives Civic partnerships with the Levine Senior Center, Rotary Club of Matthews, Matthews Free Clinic and Kiwanis Club of Matthews
• Youth programs focused on mental wellness, anti-addiction and character development
The CharlotteMecklenburg Board of Education believes this budget represents meaningful progress. Sustaining a strong public education workforce will require building on that progress by ensuring educator compensation remains competitive, rewards experience and keeps pace with the rising cost of living.
As we consider this budget, we must keep in mind that educators need compensation that grows with their commitment to students. While a one-time bonus may provide short-term financial relief, it is not a substitute for meaningful, long-term compensation. It does not increase an educator’s base salary, strengthen retirement benefits, or provide the sustained income that supports long-term financial stability and helps educators live in the communities where they teach.
“This budget recognizes the importance of North Carolina’s educators. But recognition and adequate compensation are not the same,” Board Chair Stephanie
Sneed said. “North Carolina’s teachers and school employees deserve compensation that reflects the value of the work they do every day, keeps pace with the cost of living and helps them remain in the communities they serve. Recognition is important, but sustained, meaningful investment is what will allow us to recruit, retain and support the educators our students deserve. When we invest in educators, we invest in our students. We invest in stronger communities, greater economic opportunity and the workforce that will shape North Carolina’s future. This budget is a positive step, and we look forward to continuing the conversation about strengthening North Carolina’s public education workforce through sustained, meaningful investment in the people who make student success possible.”
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education will continue to advocate for compensation that reflects the tremendous value of our public education employees. North Carolina’s teachers and school employees serve the overwhelming majority of our state’s children every day. Ensuring they are fairly compensated is essential to attracting and retaining the talented workforce our students deserve. Investing in educators is ultimately an investment in stronger students, stronger communities and a stronger North Carolina.
McGee
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A mother guides her child through the puja ritual at a foundation stone laying ceremony. Photo courtesy of BAPS
BUSINESS BRIEFS
Ernesta opens showroom NEW YORK – Ernesta recently opened its newest showroom in the South End neighborhood. The home design brand strives to redefine the rug-buying experience with designerquality, custom-sized rugs.
“This showroom allows us to better support the local design community with personalized service, expert guidance and high-quality custom solutions that are made specifically for each space,” said Jennifer Parker, chief sales officer at Ernesta.
Ernesta Charlotte is located at 2120 South Blvd., Suite 3. On the web: ernestarugs.com/locations/ charlotte
Windsor Run promotes Bates
MATTHEWS – Windsor Run, an Erickson Senior Living community, has announced the promotion of Amanda Bates to sales director.
She brings more than 10 years of senior living experience to this leadership position.
Bates’ career at Windsor Run began in October 2015 as a sales associate. In 2019, she was promoted to planning and moving consultant. Bates earned another promotion in 2022 when she was named Windsor Run’s first sales manager. In this role, she helped build and shape the Windsor Run sales team.
“Amanda’s tenure with the community, strength in leadership, expertise in sales and passion for creating exceptional experiences have us well positioned for continued success in welcoming new residents to Windsor Run,” Executive Director Michael Wehrle said. “We are excited to welcome Amanda as the new sales director and look forward to the positive impact she will have on the lives of our future residents and her teammates.”
On the web: ericksonseniorliving.com/ careers
Local folks lead law organization
RALEIGH – Members of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice elected leadership for 2026-27.
Jon Moore, a partner in the Charlotte firm Brown Moore & Associates, was chosen to serve as president-elect.
Moore is joined on the executive committee by at-large member Lauren Newton, of Tin Fulton Walker & Owen of Charlotte. Rachel Matesic, of The Sasser Law Firm of Charlotte, serves as a member of the organization’s Board of Governors.
The nonpartisan association protects people’s rights, prevents injustice and promotes fairness by empowering a strong community of trial lawyers.
CEENTA acquires company
CHARLOTTE – Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates has acquired Piedmont Ear, Nose and Throat Associates.
The acquisition marks CEENTA’s first physician group affiliation outside the Charlotte metropolitan area and expands access to its network of ENT specialists, eye physicians and audiologists.
Piedmont ENT physicians and staff will continue caring for patients at existing offices in Winston-Salem, Kernersville, Clemmons, Elkin and Mount Airy.
CEENTA said the transition will not affect provider relationships or treatment plans.
Cheese expands to more stores
GREEN BAY, Wis. – Cooper Sharp is now available at Harris Teeter deli counters across 250-plus stores.
Customers can order Cooper Sharp sliced fresh in white and yellow varieties. The rollout marks an expansion for the brand.
“Expanding into Harris Teeter is a meaningful step forward for Cooper,” said Neil Giudice, retail sales manager for Cooper Sharp. “It is a premium retail environment where shoppers are actively looking for products that deliver on taste and quality.”
Charlotte Area Chamber events
CHARLOTTE – The Charlotte Area Chamber of Commerce hosts Coffee with the Chamber, a Public Policy Meeting, and a Mastermind.
• Members mingle during Coffee with the Chamber from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. July 14 at Lucchese Bootmaker, 1171 Commonwealth Ave., Charlotte. Members get in free. Others pay $5. Register in advance.
• Mecklenburg County Commissioner George Dunlap speaks during the Public
Luncheon,
Policy meeting from 5 to 6:30 p.m. July 14 at Envision Charlotte, 932 Seigle Ave., Charlotte. Register in advance.
• The Founders Committee holds a Mastermind that addresses soft skills, operational needs and other topics from 9 to 11 a.m. July 15 at Alchemy CoWork, 2459 Wilkinson Blvd., Charlotte. Members get in free. Others pay $25. 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 hosts Women in Business, Monthly Chamber Business Luncheon and Business After Hours.
• Lavette Shirley Elee, CEO of the Women’s Health and Resilience Foundation, speaks at the Women in Business Stress Reset from 5 to 7 p.m. July 13 at Album Matthews, 9930 Idlewild Road, Matthews. Admission is free for Women in Business members. Others pay $15. Register in advance.
• Matthews Mayor John Higdon speaks at the Monthly Chamber Business Luncheon from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 15 at Christ Covenant Church, 800 Fullwood Lane, Matthews. Members pay $25 (price jumps $5 within 24 hours of the event). Others pay $40. Register in advance.
• Members network during Business After Hours from 5 to 7 p.m. July 16 at Minuteman Press, 11016 Monroe Road, Matthews. Register in advance. Visit matthewschamber.org to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Mint Hill Chamber events
MINT HILL – The Mint Hill Chamber of Commerce hosts Coffee Connections, Monthly
MINUTES FROM BALLANTYNE
MODERN, ELEVATED LIVING
Visitors can explore Ernesta’s selection of custom-sized designer-quality rugs,
corner shapes and fireplace cutouts. Photos courtesy of Ernesta
6 Savvy Ways to Ensure Grilling Success This Summer
FOOD BITES
Ruby Sunshine serves America’s Beignets among summer specials NEW ORLEANS – Ruby Sunshine has introduced a limited-time summer menu featuring patriotic-themed food and drinks. New offerings include America’s Beignets topped with strawberry coulis and blueberry compote, a Firecracker Mimosa, a Red, White & Blue cocktail flight and a customizable sparkling wine brunch package.
“When we create a seasonal menu, we look for flavors that feel fresh, balanced and made for the moment,” said Chef Marla Chua, culinary director.
The restaurant is also offering Kids Eat Free weekdays from 7 to 10 a.m. through July 31 with the purchase of an adult entrée. The promotion is valid Monday through Friday.
South Block celebrates 15 years with Birthday Cake Smoothie WASHINGTON, D.C. – South Block is celebrating its 15th anniversary with a limited-time
This big bad Red, White
Bleu Burger is the monthly feature at Bad Daddy’s
Bar. Photo courtesy of Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar LEFT: South Block is celebrating its 15th anniversary with
Smoothie. It comes with sprinkles. Photo courtesy of South Block RIGHT: Ruby Sunshine offers
Charlotte bakeries team up for Peach Oatmeal Cream Pie
CHARLOTTE – Thoughtful Baking Co. Chef Mary Jayne Wilson and The BatchMaker founder Cristina Rojas are celebrating the sixth annual Peach Oatmeal Cream Pie collaboration.
For six summers, the collaboration has paired The BatchMaker’s oatmeal cream pie with Thoughtful Baking Co.’s commitment to local, seasonal ingredients.
This year’s Peach Oatmeal Cream Pie features a buttery oatmeal cookie crust inspired by The BatchMaker’s signature oatmeal cream pies, layered with sweet cream cheese filling, Carolina peaches and oat streusel, then finished with a miniature oatmeal cream pie on top.
“Every year we wait for peach season to arrive,” Wilson said. “This pie has become a tradition for us and for so many of our customers. It celebrates local peaches at their peak and the hands that harvest them.” The Peach Oatmeal Cream Pie will be available while supplies last.
Customers can find the pie at Thoughtful Baking Co., 4418 Monroe Road, Suite A.
They can also try finding pie at select Charlotte-area farmers markets, including Matthews Community Farmers Market,
Uptown Farmers Market and Davidson Farmers Market.
military members and first responders.
A new glass honoring a branch of the U.S. Armed Forces will be released every two weeks, beginning with the Army (through July 12) and continuing with the Navy (July 13 to 26), Air Force (July 27 to Aug. 9) and Marines (Aug. 10 to 23).
On the web: pizzainn.com
Bojangles raises money through Big Bo Box promotion
CHARLOTTE – Bojangles is honoring America’s heroes and celebrating the nation’s 250th anniversary with its patriotic, limited-edition Big Bo Box.
From now through July 26, $1 from every Big Bo Box sold will support Folds of Honor and the Veteran Golfers Association, benefiting military personnel and their families across the U.S. In addition, guests will be able to round up their orders at checkout to further support the cause
Through similar campaigns, Bojangles has raised more than $1.5 million to support military families and veterans.
Try summer drinks at Vicious Biscuit
CHARLESTON – Vicious Biscuit has introduced a limited-time summer drink menu available through Aug. 2 at all locations.
The seasonal lineup includes the Malibu Pineapple Smash,
Two Charlotte bakeries are collaborating on the Peach Oatmeal Cream Pie, one of the region’s most beloved nostalgic treats. Photos courtesy of Thoughtful Baking Co.
Founded by Chef Mary Jayne Wilson, Thoughtful Baking Co. celebrates the farmers, makers and traditions of the Carolinas through thoughtfully crafted food made with care. Photo courtesy of Thoughtful Baking Co.
Ballet leader leaving after 30 years
CHARLOTTE – Doug Singleton will conclude his tenure as executive director with Charlotte Ballet this fall as he transitions to the role of executive director at The Washington Ballet.
Singleton joined Charlotte Ballet in 1996 and was appointed executive director of the organization in 2005.
“As I reflect on more than three decades at Charlotte Ballet, I’m filled with such an overwhelming amount of gratitude,” Singleton said. “Gratitude for our team here, past and present, gratitude for every dancer who has dazzled on our stage and gratitude to all of Charlotte for embracing the power of dance and its ability to transform lives.”
Charlotte Ballet’s board of trustees has established a transition oversight committee and an executive director
search committee to conduct a nationwide search for Singleton’s replacement.
Working with Armstrong McGuire, the board appointed Kim Lanphear as the interim executive director. She will begin work immediately. She’ll work closely with Singleton before his departure this fall to ensure a smooth transition. Lanphear served as the executive director of Apparo for 13 years, where she more than doubled the nonprofit’s annual gross revenues.
“Because of Doug’s leadership, Charlotte Ballet has evolved into one of the region’s leading cultural institutions, and I couldn’t be more grateful for his work here,” said Alex Funderburg, chairman of the board of trustees. “I know I speak for the entire board of trustees when I say we wish Doug and his wife, Viki, the best on their
next adventure in Washington, D.C. Our community is undeniably stronger because of his leadership. The board looks forward to identifying a permanent leader who will build on Charlotte Ballet’s momentum while guiding the organization through its next chapter of growth and community impact.”
During Singleton’s tenure as executive director, Charlotte Ballet secured its permanent home, completed a transformative capital campaign, expanded national touring and festival appearances, strengthened professional training programs, increased philanthropic support by 222% and ticket sales by 354% and broadened access to dance throughout the Charlotte region.
Singleton has also worked with community partners
to expand access to dance education and training. He helped establish the Reach Program, a need-based scholarship initiative for young dancers. He championed partnerships serving communities with limited access to dance, including sensory-friendly performances, dance for all abilities and senior programming.
The organization, under the artistic leadership of Alejandro Cerrudo, remains focused on delivering exceptional artistic experiences, advancing dance education and serving the Charlotte community.
“Doug’s leadership has positioned Charlotte Ballet for a bright future,” Cerrudo said. “I have every confidence in the strength of this organization, the talented people who make it thrive and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.”
My cardboard boat taught me an important lesson
by Tony Marciano Contributor
Ilearned about a cardboard boat race one week after it occurred. The next one was scheduled in a year. There was just one problem. That was the same weekend my daughter was getting married. Should I participate in a cardboard boat race or attend my daughter’s wedding? I met with the wisest people I know who said, “Go with the boat.” I ignored them and attended my daughter’s wedding.
This year, Cornelius was having a cardboard boat race. I was in.
I waited until the last day to register. The race was in five days. The director offered me as much cardboard as I wanted. I picked it up
and started building it.
There was one piece of cardboard I had that would be the floor. It appeared to be strong and didn’t flop around like cardboard does. I would build the boat around this specific piece.
I made tabs that were six inches wide and as long as the seam –three inches went on the wall and three inches were attached to the floor. I used more than two bottles of glue to keep the tabs attached. Wednesday was spent putting the four walls and the bow on the boat. We were allowed to paint it with latex paint. I found a can of “oops” deep green paint at the store. I put three coats of paint on it. It was ready for the high seas.
Saturday, the cardboard race was
delayed due to rain. I was grateful as that gave me an extra week to customize it. It was called the Baby Sharkinator. I painted a shark’s face on both sides of the bow with razor-sharp teeth. On the bow was a blue shark. The transom had a shark fin coming out of the water. The next Saturday we were ready. My daughter was supposed to be my first mate but got sick. My son-in-law said, “I’ll join.” I now had a full crew. We were in the third heat with two other ships. I put mine in the water. The water was six inches deep. When my son-inlaw put his foot on the bottom, it immediately showed an imprint of his foot. Then a small crack appeared and water started coming in.
I assured him, it would be OK. Suddenly, his foot went through the bottom. A one-foot hole appeared. We looked at each other and laughed.
I assured him I had a great time building it and enjoyed my time at the race, even if we only got a few feet from the shore.
I had intended to save the bottom after the race was over and throw the sides in the dumpster. But the bottom was the problem. It had no structural strength. It utilized a honeycomb design to absorb shock while items were in transit. It wasn’t designed for structural strength. I built the entire boat around this one piece of cardboard. The foundation I chose was flawed.
There is a parable where Jesus tells about
LOUD & LIVE
a house built on sand and another built on rock. When the winds blew and the waves came, guess which one blew over and which stood against the storms (can I add) of life. What is the foundation you are building your life on? Were you like me, where the cardboard floor looked good and appeared strong but had no strength. The foundation you choose for your life will determine the future trajectory of how it is lived. Choose wisely. Invite God to be the foundation upon which all else is built. I’ll be back in two weeks. Until then, live well, my friend.
The Rev. Tony Marciano is available to speak to your group. DM him on Facebook.
Military members, families: Check out these insurance tips
by Mike Causey Contributor
North Carolina prides itself on being among the most military-friendly states in the nation. The state has several large active-duty bases and provides significant support for military and veteran communities.
Active-duty military members and their families will find themselves making decisions about insurance, meeting liability requirements and protecting their families. Military members and their families should ask their insurance agent specific questions about how the company
handles issues regarding deployment before purchasing an insurance policy.
Insurance companies’ practices vary, so shopping around can pay off. Make sure you make applesto-apples comparisons, including comparing prices and the level of service, from multiple insurance providers.
If you get deployed, check your policy renewal date and payment terms with your agent before you leave. Make sure your coverage will remain in effect during deployment. If the renewal date occurs while you’re deployed, arrange to make sure your premium gets paid on time.
Many homeowners’ insurance policies have a “vacancy clause” that may be triggered if you are deployed for a long time and your family moves to a new location. Such policies may not pay claims if your house is vacant for 60 days or more. However, some companies offer an endorsement that specifically allows coverage for your house to continue even if it’s vacant for an extended period. If you’re just joining the military, review your homeowners’ policy with your agent before you leave for military duty. Doing so could help you avoid a dispute in the future. Also, make sure your policy limits are sufficient to cover your
home and personal property at replacement costs.
Always let your insurance company know when you have moved out of the house. Homeowners’ and renters’ insurance policies typically cover personal property that you take with you while traveling. However, most policies exclude damage caused directly or indirectly by acts of war. Talk to your agent about whether personal items that you take with you during your deployment will be covered if they are lost, damaged or stolen.
For automobile insurance, if you are deployed for a long time and no one will be driving your vehicle, you may be able to turn in your
tags while you’re deployed to remove the liability from your vehicle. Insurance companies call this “vehicle storage.”
State law requires liability insurance to remain in effect if the vehicle is registered and has tags.
Military members on deployment may also consider suspending their collision and comprehensive (also called “other than collision”) coverage. However, if you have a loan on your car, the bank or finance company will likely require such coverage. I don’t encourage you to suspend your comprehensive coverage. If you do so, you run the risk of not having damages
covered if your car is damaged by weather, an earthquake, vandalism, fire or if it is stolen.
I’m grateful to our military members and their families who have dedicated their lives to protect our homeland and ensure our freedom. The Department of Insurance stands ready to assist you with any insurance issues or questions.
Speak to a consumer specialist weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. by calling 855-408-1212. You may also visit our website at ncdoi.gov.
Mike Causey serves as insurance commissioner of North Carolina.
Sorority hosts regional conference in Charlotte
CHARLOTTE – Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated plans to unite members under the theme: One Delta, One Mission: Anchored in Legacy, Evolving With Intention during its 2026 Regional Conference.
Charlotte will host the South Atlantic Regional Conference from July 30 to Aug. 2. The gathering will welcome Delta members representing the Carolinas, Virginia and Bermuda.
Unlike the 2018 conference, which was hosted solely by the Charlotte Alumnae Chapter, this year’s regional conference is a collaboration among 10 local Delta chapters including Charlotte Alumnae, Concord Alumnae, Gastonia Alumnae, Rock Hill Alumnae, Union County Alumnae, alongside five collegiate chapters: Gamma Lambda (Johnson C. Smith
University), Iota Rho (UNC Charlotte), Upsilon Mu (Davidson College), Upsilon Psi (Wingate University) and Xi Beta (Winthrop University).
“I extend my heartfelt appreciation to our host chapters and their presidents for providing the opportunity to showcase the power of ‘Better Together’ by drawing on the collective strengths of each chapter,” said Pamela Murphy Lewis, South Atlantic regional director. “It is truly a pleasure to again host our conference in Charlotte under our empowering theme, ‘Deltas Reign in the Queen City.’” The South Atlantic Region consists of 18,000 members
representing 160 alumnae chapters and 42 collegiate chapters.
Deltas will take part in workshops, public service projects and training sessions while advancing the sorority’s national and regional initiatives.
Schedule highlights include:
July 29 – Public Service Impact Day: This year’s public service project benefits three organizations: Leah’s Hopes and Dreams, the North Carolina Diaper Bank and Block Love CLT. Delta members donated more than $50,000 to Habitat for Humanity during the 2024 Regional Conference in Raleigh.
July 30 – Public Meeting & Welcome Event: This opening program will feature sorority awards, community recognitions and special acknowledgments of distinguished leaders such as
Congresswoman Alma Adams, while honoring the legacy of HBCUs. The event will also highlight members of the National Pan-Hellenic Council, the nine historically Black Greek-letter fraternities and sororities for their commitment to leadership, scholarship, service and community impact.
July 31 – Step Show and Stroll Competition: This ticketed event features high-energy performances from chapters throughout the South Atlantic Region.
Aug. 1 – Social Action Luncheon: Jotaka Eaddy, CEO of Full Circle Strategies and founder of Win with Black Women, is the guest speaker for this ticketed event. Aug. 2 – Ecumenical Service: The Rev. Howard-John Wesley, senior pastor of Alfred Street
Baptist Church in Alexandria, Virginia, serves as the speaker for this gathering celebrating faith, unity and spiritual grounding. Gospel great Byron Cage will be the musical guest. Attendees will be invited to contribute to three beneficiaries: Barber-Scotia College, Greater Steps Scholars and The Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture.
The South Atlantic Region honors the legacy of Bertha Maxwell Roddey, whose leadership helped shape both Charlotte and the sorority. Maxwell Roddey was founding director of the Black studies program at UNCC and established the sorority’s first nationwide partnership with Habitat for Humanity. On the web: deltasigmatheta. org
