Pride Magazine - Charlotte Multicultural Resource MagazineJuly 2026-2027 by Pride Magazine Online

New to Tryon Medical.

Tryon Medical Partners welcomes Jason A. Boothe, MD, CAQSM, AT-R, to our growing team of award-winning physicians.

Dr. Boothe provides high-quality care to patients 16 and older in Family Medicine, and ages 13 and older in Sports Medicine

While he is new to Tryon, Dr. Boothe is a respected physician who has lived and worked in Charlotte for several years.

Dr. Boothe is now accepting new patients. Schedule an appointment with him today. tryonmed.com

CEO/Publisher

Dee Dixon

Editor

Alicia Michele Benjamin

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Lead Writer

Angela Lindsay

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Digital Content Distribution

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Public Relations

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Pride Magazine prints with soy ink.

Vol. 34 No. 4

July–August 2026

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Charlotte’s African-American Magazine

FromTheCEO

By Dee Dixon

Mi Experiencia en la Ciudad de México

My 2025 Thanksgiving holiday trip found me in Mexico City, Mexico. My intention was to travel to New Mexico in the states. However, when I discovered I could fly to Mexico City, Mexico cheaper and without having to change planes, it was a no-brainer.

At 9:25 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day, I was on a direct three-hour

of the largest city squares in the world) where my guide and others were waiting.

I gave this tour a 5 out of 10 rating. While I did enjoy learning about the Aztec ruins, I did not care at all for spending so much time in the Metropolitan Cathedral. Although it was here that we learned the city is literally sinking, and it was here where the “Cristo Negro” (Black Jesus)

flight to Mexico City. It was a great — nothing or nobody crazy onboard. The real shock came when I deplaned and Ubered to my hotel, the Fiesta Inn Centro Historico. I thought I was in New York City — traffic, congestion, crowded buildings, street vendors, people and more people. I began to question why I came.

Nonetheless, I made it to the hotel where my “Spanglish” wasn’t so great. That and my southern drawl seemed to confuse the staff. Their super, fast-speaking Spanish flew by me like lightning. Google translate came to the rescue.

I pre-booked my first excursion for the following Friday, which was a historic downtown guided walking tour. Relief engulfed me when I finally found the Plaza de la Constitución (one

caught my eye. The guide did not stop to expound on this statue.

Saturday’s excursion was excellent. This day trip included a boat tour of the Xochimilco

floating gardens and the Frida Kahlo Museum. I gave it 10 stars. The story of artist Frida Kahlo’s life and her companion Diego is mindblowing. One of her paintings, “The

sold for $54.7 million at a Sotheby’s auction in New York right before my trip. There’s a movie about her called “Frida” that’s available on streaming platforms. Check it out.

Sunday’s small group walking tour to sample authentic vegan and vegetarian street food was superb. Our guide was extremely informative, and we went to places I never would have visited on my own. The food was delicious and because the group was small, we were able to bond. It gets a whopping 10+ rating.

I was safely back in the Queen City on Monday at 6:42 p.m. I was exhausted but glad I made the journey.

Bed,”

Clockwise from top left: Dee and members of a small group tour at a restaurant in Mexico City; Dee at the Frida Kahlo Museum in Mexico City; The Cristo Negro (Black Christ) at the Metropolitan Cathedral

Proudly serving the communities we call home.

At Mills Auto Group, we combine the strength of multiple brands with a deeply personal approach to customer care. We believe in showing up, giving back, and creating experiences that feel welcoming, transparent, and built around you.

Because when you choose us, you’re not just visiting a dealership - you’re becoming part of something bigger.

TheVegucator

By Dawn Hilton-Williams

SThe Recovery Tray Rethinking Food and Care

omewhere between the IV drip, treatment chair, medication schedule and meal tray, food becomes part of what patients and families instinctively associate with recovery. In vulnerable moments like this, few stop to question whether the food arriving during treatment is also aligned with optimal health.

Hospitals and treatment centers exist to help people through acute illness and recovery, yet heavily processed foods are still commonly served during care despite their longstanding links to many lifestyle-driven chronic illnesses. In some cases, the contradiction is difficult to ignore.

Food education and healing

According to the Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer, processed meats including bacon, sausage, ham and deli meats are classified as Group 1 carcinogens strongly linked to colorectal cancer risk. The agency also found that consuming roughly two ounces of processed meat daily increases colorectal cancer risk by 18%. Yet despite growing research connecting food and health outcomes, nutrition education has historically remained a limited part of medical training in the United States.

Physicians and healthcare professionals do the noble work of saving lives every day through intervention, treatment and emergency care, yet nutrition education has historically remained a limited part of their training in the United States.

According to “The State of Nutrition Education at U.S. Medical Schools,” a 2015 survey published in the “Journal of Biomedical Education,” 71% of U.S. medical schools failed to provide the recommended minimum 25 hours of nutrition education first proposed by the National Research Council in 1985. The result is that

71% of U.S. medical schools failed to provide the recommended minimum 25 hours of nutrition education.

many patients leave treatment with detailed medication instructions but little to no clarity about how everyday food choices can influence healing.

The good news is that some medical schools are also revisiting how future physicians are trained. The University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville, for example, became the first medical school in the nation to fully integrate lifestyle medicine education across all four years of its curriculum, incorporating nutrition, physical activity, behavior change and self-care into physician training, while Wake Forest University School of Medicine in Charlotte has expanded culinary medicine and lifestyle-focused educational initiatives that connect nutrition, prevention and community-based care.

A whole food, plant-based lifestyle emphasizes minimally processed vegetables, fruits, beans, legumes, whole grains, greens, nuts and seeds naturally rich in fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and plant-based protein while moving families and communities away from heavily processed dietary patterns tied to many lifestyle-driven chronic illnesses. Research linking fiber-rich, plantbased eating patterns with lower rates of heart disease, hypertension, Type 2 diabetes, obesity and certain cancers is leading more healthcare systems to rethink how food fits into patient care.

A system reset

Some healthcare systems are already showing what changes when food is treated as an integral part of care. In 2023, Santa Clara Valley Healthcare became the first public hospital system in the nation to introduce Universal Meals, a plant-

based initiative developed to expand access to healthier, more inclusive meals while also avoiding common allergens linked to animal-based ingredients. The system has since reported a 13% increase in nutritional value alongside strong patient and staff response to expanded plantforward offerings.

Loma Linda University Health, New York City’s public hospital system and other healthcare institutions across the country are also expanding nutrition, lifestyle medicine and plantforward initiatives tied to treatment, recovery and long-term health. New York City’s public hospital system alone has now served more than 1.2 million plant-based meals with patient satisfaction reported above 90%, reinforcing the growing recognition that food served during treatment can either support healing or reinforce many of the same dietary patterns tied to lifestyle-driven chronic illness.

As more healthcare systems and medical schools rethink the role food plays in treatment and recovery, a diagnosis or treatment plan can also serve as an opportunity to learn more about how highly processed dietary patterns influence healing and how whole food, plant-based nutrition and lifestyle change can help prevent, arrest and even reverse many top lifestyle-driven chronic illnesses. Understanding that food served during treatment is never separate from recovery itself, local resources like Power is Giving and online platforms such as NutritionFacts.org and Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM.org) are available to help you access lifestyle education and advocacy tools before, during and after life’s most vulnerable moments. P

Central Piedmont Community College builds Charlotte’s tech pipeline through AI and IT training

From cybersecurity to generative AI, Central Piedmont Community College offers flexible tech training for Charlotte’s workforce.

Central Piedmont is helping build Charlotte’s technology pipeline through Information Technology and Artificial Intelligence programs designed to prepare students and working professionals for in-demand careers. As employers across industries seek talent in cybersecurity, network systems,

data analysis and AI, the college offers flexible pathways to gain practical, jobready skills.

Central Piedmont offers an Associate in Applied Science degree in Artificial Intelligence, a program that includes coursework in generative AI, chatbots, machine learning and data analysis. One of the first of its kind in North Carolina, the program reflects the rapid evolution of the tech landscape, and enrolled nearly 100 students in 2025-26.

Students gain foundational skills in AI programming, data analysis and generative AI, preparing for roles across industries including finance, healthcare and engineering. Roles in these fields can see a median salary of over $130,000.

Why Central Piedmont for IT and AI training?

Real-world focus is what sets Central Piedmont apart. Faculty bring industry experience into the classroom, while students can earn certifications and connect with employers before graduating.

For Joe Little, associate dean of technology and a Central Piedmont graduate, that mission is personal. “It’s all about connecting you to the skills,” he said. “We’re preparing students to use technology in ways that make a difference.”

With flexible pathways from shortterm credentials to two-year degrees, Central Piedmont helps students enter the workforce quickly while continuing to build their skills — strengthening both individual opportunities and the region’s growing tech economy.

Superspecies

How generative AI contributes to your life and your business

By Sunil Erevelles, PhD

Most people and businesses currently use generative AI as a tool, as they struggle to understand the transformative technological nature of generative AI. People should keep in mind that generative AI is not a tool — it has agency, the ability to think, feel and act autonomously.

However, using AI as a tool may be an appropriate short-term strategy, so long as people understand that, as AI learns more about you by interacting with you, it will abruptly transition into an agent, and then a superior. The primacy of safeguards and public policy is imperative.

Using AI in everyday life

In banking, customers can use generative AI as a virtual financial assistant to execute transactions, obtain credit, track spending, reset passwords and give financial advice. Banks are hiring those with PhDs in linguistics to enhance AI interactive capabilities. Internally, banks use AI tools for assessing credit risk, predicting delinquencies, fraud detection, stress testing and losses expected from borrowers who default on loans.

A “Wall Street Journal” article, “The Man Behind Bank of America’s $13 Billion Tech Agenda,” reported that in 2026, Bank of America will spend an astounding $4 billion on new technology initiatives, with the elephant in the initiative being AI.

In healthcare, physicians use AI to turn doctor-patient conversations into notes, with AI further analyzing them to

Sunil Erevelles, PhD, is an associate professor of marketing at the Belk College of Business at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. He served as chair of UNC Charlotte’s Department of Marketing from 2010–2018.

recommend prescription orders, lab work and billing codes. AI is also used in imaging and diagnostics.

With colonoscopies, for example, the CEO of Medtronic, Geoffrey Martha, a global leader in medical technology, reported that physicians miss detecting a shocking 26% of polyps, as seen on a “Mad Money,” episode on CNBC in March 2024. Medtronic’s AI,

which was trained in 13 million cases, rarely misses detecting a polyp, according to Martha.

While it takes about 14 years of education after high school to become a gastroenterologist, a Medtronic AI can be duplicated easily. Finally, AI is also being used for billing, scheduling and paperwork.

In government, AI is used in risk assessment and standardized reporting. The IRS uses AI to assist in tax fraud and compliance, as well as to categorize taxpayer inquiries, summarize agents’ notes and route calls.

In law enforcement, AI is used in crime trend forecasting, identifying high-risk areas, bias evaluations and for transcribing and analyzing incident reports. Democracies, like the U.S can benefit from publicly available software platforms that can help create, monitor and enforce policy, with AI helping to instantly check policy-creation bills to make sure they are constitutional and do not violate any ethical norms, while enhancing transparency.

In the fashion industry, AI-generated models and virtual influencers appear in more and more ads, photos, videos and social media content. H&M uses AI to digitally clone their models, while Guess’ use of AI models in a Vogue ad sparked backlash, as reported in an ABC News

report on in August 2025, “Guess ad in Vogue magazine sparks controversy with its models.”

Personally, I’m not against using AI models or influencers, as long as it’s clearly identified. Similarly, creating counterfeit versions of people should carry serious legal consequences, just as counterfeiting currency does. AI is also being used to predict emerging fashion trends and to generate designs, optimizing them for cost.

AI’s effects in the long term

The positive potential of Generative AI for humanity is enormous. As AI drives the marginal cost of producing goods and services toward zero, we’re heading into an era of abundance. At the same time, generative AI also poses considerable danger. If we don’t proactively control generative AI with public policy, it will control us.

AI is not a tool — it has agency

Generative AI differs from all past technologies in at least two ways. First, humans can control all past technologies from radio to jet airplanes to nuclear weapons. Generative AI operates beyond human control. It can create, decide and execute on its own.

Second, all past technologies gave humans more power. Generative AI usurps power from humans. Treating AI as a tool is short-sighted. CEOs and most managers view their lives as a sequence of decisionmaking and execution that is increasingly being taken over by Generative AI. They now need to learn new philosophies, values and thinking for the age of AI.

Replacing human intelligence with AI

Generative AI is making knowledge and intelligence inconsequential and it’s changing the future of jobs. Humans have two abilities: physical and intellectual. All jobs require one or both of these abilities. In the industrial revolution, machines made human strength inconsequential. People moved to higher-order physical jobs — from farm to factory, or to intellectual jobs.

Now AI is outperforming humans at intellectual tasks, pushing millions out of the job market. Very soon, the value of cognitive labor will turn negative. Jobs that simply require “numbers in – numbers out” are the easiest to displace. There is wide consensus that hundreds of tasks completed by humans, such as coding or medical diagnosis, can be better executed with AI.

But tasks like coding and medical diagnoses barely touch the edges of the vastness of human potential. We know so little about human potential, the human mind, abstract imagination, emotional innovation or consciousness. These are the next frontiers for firms.

AI really knows us

Generative AI can understand consumers (and everyone) better than we understand ourselves. Unlike big data (massive, complex data sets that traditional data management systems can’t handle), which is limited largely to consumers’ external activity, generative AI penetrates our minds, capturing intimate cognitions and emotions. The holy grail in marketing is shifting from attention to intimacy.

Generative AI transforms us into algorithms and knows us better than we know ourselves. It precisely targets us, predicts our choices, influences our desires and makes decisions on our behalf.

In summary, we’re witnessing the rise of a hyperintelligent “superspecies” that’s already more intelligent than we are. P

Meet Dr. Sunil Erevelles at the Pride Awards

Dr. Sunil Erevelles, former chair of UNC Charlotte’s Department of Marketing at the Belk College of Business, will serve as keynote speaker for the 2026 Pride Awards Luncheon.

PRIDE AWARDS 2026

Future Forward: AI and Us

Friday, July 10, 2026

The Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte

11:15 a.m. — Networking Reception 12:00 p.m. — Lunch & Program

This year’s event explores how artificial intelligence is transforming business, education, healthcare, entrepreneurship, and everyday life. Join community leaders, business professionals, educators, and changemakers for an engaging conversation about the opportunities and challenges AI presents for our future. Seating is still available.

Reserve your table or purchase tickets: www.pridemagazineonline.com 704-375-9553

NODA*

CHARLOTTE SHOUT

MIDDLE C JAZZ

How La Bodeguita Forms Connection Through Creativity

By Rosanny Crumpton

In a world where loneliness quietly lingers for many people post-pandemic, one Charlotte creative space is offering something simple, meaningful and deeply human — connection.

Tucked inside Camp North End, La Bodeguita invites people to slow down,

create and reconnect, not just with art, but with themselves and others around them.

Created by therapist and artist, Michelle Fernandez, La Bodeguita grew from observations she was seeing firsthand in her therapy practice.

“In my work as a therapist, I noticed that a lot of my clients were struggling with the

through line of loneliness post-pandemic,” said Fernandez, who grew up in Charlotte.

“They didn’t really know how to go about finding spaces or places to meet others.”

What began as a simple craft club quickly evolved into something much larger — a full creative wellness concept centered around community, curiosity and healing through artistic expression.

Even the name carries intention.

“The name was meant to encapsulate the idea of connection,” Fernandez said, drawing inspiration from the cultural

Top: La Bodeguita Creates craft café in Charlotte’s Camp North End section

Above: Therapist and artist, Michelle Fernandez

Photos courtesy of Fulton Brand

“In my work as a therapist, I noticed that a lot of my clients were struggling with the through line of loneliness post-pandemic. They didn’t really know how to go about finding spaces or places to meet others.”

—Michelle Fernandez

significance of New York City bodegas, spaces traditionally rooted in neighborhood familiarity, culture and gathering.

At La Bodeguita, guests can engage with the space in multiple ways. Some attend curated evening workshops that blend creativity with comfort and nostalgia.

“These sessions are meant to feel like your elementary art classroom and your living room in one,” Fernandez said.

Workshops feature specific artistic mediums, with some classes led by visiting artists while others are facilitated by Fernandez herself.

From Thursday through Sunday, however, the space transforms into what may be one of Charlotte’s most unique concepts: a full craft café.

“People can come in and order craft experiences off a menu just like a coffee shop,” Fernandez explained. “But instead of coffee, they order arts and crafts.”

On Thursdays through Sundays, the café operates on a walk-in basis, creating an approachable and low-pressure environment for anyone seeking a creative outlet or simply a different kind of social experience.

While the colorful crafts and cozy atmosphere are certainly part of the appeal, the deeper mission behind La Bodeguita is rooted in wellness and emotional connection.

Fernandez, a first-generation Latina, single mother, therapist and artist, returned to art herself during the pandemic to navigate anxiety and reconnect with her own wellbeing.

“Through my own experiences with anxiety, I returned to art as an intervention for wellness,” she said. “It set me on a trajectory to investigate how these intersections of art and mental health could be expanded upon.”

Today, that exploration lives within the walls of La Bodeguita every day.

Research continues to highlight the positive relationship between creativity and mental health, including lower levels of loneliness, anxiety and depression. But Fernandez said one of the most powerful outcomes she witnesses is something even more foundational — self-trust.

In the space, they focus on creating room for people to explore without rules, judgment or expectations. It’s reconnection with oneself and to better reconnect with others. “We use art as a tool for reconnection,” she added.

At a time when so many people are craving authentic interaction and spaces where they can simply exist without pressure, La Bodeguita offers an invitation to create imperfectly, gather intentionally and rediscover joy in the process.

And ultimately, that is exactly what Fernandez hopes people carry with them after they leave.

She said, “I hope people walk away with a stronger sense of hope and belief in themselves, and their ability to create, cultivate curiosity and form connections both to their own true selves and to the world around them.” P

Finding Home A Charlotte couple plans to move to Ghana

By Charles K. Harris

Last year, the “Wall Street Journal” reported that for the first time since the Great Depression, more people moved out of the United States than those that moved in. Some 650,000 African Americans were among them.

Local artist Kevin Harris and his wife Nika are the latest to join the trend.

After much investigating and two captivating visits to Ghana, the couple are preparing to relocate from Charlotte to the Motherland this summer. “Visiting Africa was a dream ever since I was a little boy watching ‘Roots,’ particularly the depiction of village life. It was a beautiful thing,” said Kevin.

This depiction in the iconic miniseries provided a stark contrast to the unwelcoming and primitive portrayal of Africa commonly pushed by Western media, he said.

“[I had always seen and heard] these negative things about Africa, little kids with the flies and distended bellies, and I said, ‘That can’t be all of it.’”

A native of Washington, D.C., he relocated to Brooklyn, N.Y. after six years in the military. That’s where he met Nika, who grew up on Long Island.

Nika also fostered a long-held dream of traveling to Africa. When she was a child, her father traveled to Ghana and returned home deeply impacted by the experience — one he spoke of often. “I just grew up always saying, ‘I’m going to go!” she said. Their dream was temporarily shelved while they raised their six children — first in Maryland and then in Charlotte, and they both worked full time.

Kevin, who has nurtured a love of art since childhood, took whatever opportunities he could over the years to hone his craft. His energy is clearly reflected in his work. He primarily creates portraits using pastels, acrylics and oils. His art features vibrant, multi-hued colors. He maintained an active side business taking commissions online for several years. After his work was featured on

Top Right: Kevin and Nika Harris are wearing traditional attire in Oyibi, Ghana; Below: The entrance to the “Last Bath” at the Assin Manso Slave River in Ghana; Bottom Right: Nika Harris is bathing her feet in the Assin Manso Slave River in Ghana, the site where captured Africans could wash for the final time in their homeland before being forced to go to slave dungeons and shipped across the Atlantic.

“Visiting Africa was a dream ever since I was a little boy watching ‘Roots,’ particularly the depiction of village life. It was a beautiful thing.”

—Kevin Harris

an Art Pop Artist Cohort billboard in Charlotte, Kevin said interest grew to such a scale in 2022 that Kevin was able to leave his secular job and focus solely on his craft.

As Nika was considering her own approaching retirement — she has worked almost 30 years in the government social services field — the couple revisited their joint dream trip to Africa.

Nika began researching Ghana via online blogs, travel posts and creator content videos. The research, which began as a deep dive into information about Ghana, became the spark that would reshape the couple’s future.

“It went from, ‘Let’s plan a trip’ to ‘Wow. We might think of relocating,’” Kevin said. “We said, ‘We need to just go and see,” said Nika, which they did for the first time in May 2025.

Their enthusiasm was not misplaced. “We had a ball!” said Kevin. “We had a great time.”

Photos courtesy of Kevin and Nika Harris

The couple said one critical preparation was unfastening themselves from a lifetime of Westernized culture. “We had this conversation with each other,” Kevin said. He said they agreed they weren’t going to Ghana to represent America or teach Ghanaians about their culture. “We want to learn about them, their culture, their spaces,” he added.

Nika said she was looking forward to the leisurely way of life.

“Everything wasn’t just rush, rush, rush,” she said. “I made the conscious effort to slow down. And that felt so good to my soul and my spirit.”

Kevin was drawn to the cuisine. He said the Ghanaian diet staples are natural, healthy and without preservatives. A diabetic with high blood pressure, Kevin anticipates the plant-based, non-processed, yet flavorful

food will make managing his conditions much easier.

After just a few days, there was no doubt about it. “We were like, ‘We want to move!’” Nika said.

Despite this certainty, the couple knew the wisdom of making an intentional and well-informed move.

“We’re not running away from something. We’re running to something.”

—Kevin Harris

“We needed to go back and spend some more time on the ground,” said Kevin. “You have to see how you fit in,” Nika said. Their first visit was strictly “as tourists,” she said.

In February, they returned for an extended visit, gaining their Ghanaian citizenship and checking potential properties. After staying in the capital city of Accra to get acclimated, their goal is to find a quieter locale. “We hope to build a house in a more rural setting,” Nika said. “Build a house as well as a studio space,” Kevin said with a grin.

Although enticed by the sights, sounds and soul of Ghana, both Kevin and Nika admit America’s current political and social climate also influenced their choice. “There’s a lot going on in this country,” Kevin said. “The reality is that this country was built on racism and it’s still prevalent.”

His assessment is hardly an isolated one.

Still, Kevin said their move is not based on fear or a spirit of abandonment. “We’re not running away from something. We’re running to something.”

Moving is not without its drawbacks though. Leaving their children and grandchildren will not be easy. “Our kids, even though they’re grown, still need a helping hand every now and then,” Nika said. “And once we’re over there, we won’t be in a position to help them,” she said. “As readily,” Kevin added.

The couple said their children are largely supportive of the move. Additionally, two of their grandchildren will be flying with them to Accra this summer where they will spend school break.

While there will be an expected adjustment phase, the Harris’ are optimistic about the next phase of their life. Nika plans to devote more energy to her online travel agency. Kevin’s plans are more predictable.

He said, “I just want to paint and be happy with what I do.” P

Above: Nika and Kevin Harris hold their Citizenship Certificates welcoming them as new Republic of Ghana Citizens; Left: Umbrella Rock, near the Boti Falls in the Yilo Krobo District in Ghana; Below: The Aburi Botanical Gardens in the town of Aburi in Ghana

Nonprofit Charity, Hope For All, Is Rooted in Diversity and Driven by Service

By Brenda Porter-Rockwell

Diversity isn’t just a word for Matala Kubuanu and Vikki E. Rivera — it’s the value proposition behind everything they’ve built at Charlotte-based Hope for All (HFA), a nonprofit charity organization. Raised on different continents and shaped by distinct cultural experiences, the founders channel their shared belief in community service into a nonprofit that helps some of the city’s most vulnerable populations.

Kubuanu and Rivera, who now serve as board members, met through a shared passion for service and community impact.

“What started as conversations about the needs we were seeing around us — both locally and globally — quickly turned into action. As we continued volunteering and helping individuals directly, we realized the need for a more structured, sustainable way to expand our efforts,” said Rivera.

In 2018, Hope For All officially became a nonprofit with a mission to empower individuals through resources, education and opportunity. Rather than focus on just one or two issues, HFA takes what the pair describe as a “deep specialization” approach to community challenges such as

homelessness, unemployment, education and health disparities.

“We chose to take a holistic approach because helping someone in one area often requires addressing multiple barriers, said Kubuanu. For example, placing someone in a job may also require clothing or transportation,” he said.

It’s HFA’s wide-ranging menu of services which allows them to meet people where

Above: Hope For All, a charitable nonprofit in Charlotte, gives free school supplies to young students. From left to right: HFA founders Matala Kubuanu and Vikki Rivera with two HFA supporters from Casa Viva Church. Left: Vikki Rivera (right) and a young community member. Right: Matala Kubuanu checks a community member’s blood pressure at a Hope For All health screening event.

they are and better support them on their journey to stability and success, said Rivera.

Service based on lived experiences

Kubuanu and Rivera’s experience as community advocates, along with their distinct life journeys, helps shape HFA’s work across Charlotte.

Kubuanu, for example, was born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, formerly known as Zaire. As a teenager, he witnessed high rates of school delinquency, homelessness, teen pregnancy, drug abuse, sexual exploitation, wartime violence and deaths from preventable diseases.

When he was invited to study in America, Kubuanu saw a chance to further

Photos courtesy of Hope For All

Above: Three attendees at an annual Hope For All Charity Ball – a fundraising event. The upcoming HFA Ball will be held on July 25 at 7 p.m. in Charlotte. Call 704-6066198 for more info. Right: Hope For All team members serve the community.

his education and work toward expanding educational opportunities, restoring hope and reducing disparities in the Congo. But when Kubuanu arrived in Charlotte, he realized many of the same issues existed there as well.

Kubuanu said he later came to see that meaningful change is measured by the lives improved, no matter where the work happens.

“While the challenges may differ in scale or context, the need for compassion and support exists everywhere. At HFA, we measure impact through tangible outcomes and personal transformation,” he said.

For example, HFA has helped over 65 individuals return to the workforce, regularly serves over 120 people weekly through food and health outreach and has supported many others in finding sustainable housing.

“But beyond numbers, we look at changed lives — families regaining stability, individuals finding dignity and youth gaining opportunities they didn’t have before,” Kubuanu said. “Impact isn’t just about comparison; it’s about progress and transformation in the community we serve today.”

Rivera, HFA’s community advocate, is originally from New York and moved to Charlotte more than 13 years ago. Although her experiences differ from Kubuanu’s, she is equally dedicated to improving lives.

“My path may be different, but my commitment to service comes from a deep belief in equity, compassion and community responsibility,” she said. “As a proud Puerto Rican woman raised with strong values around compassion, faith and community, I was taught early on that when people are struggling, you show up for them.”

Through HFA, Rivera said she combines her personal values with meaningful action through supporting families, mentoring youth and helping people navigate difficult circumstances.

“Our different backgrounds actually strengthen the organization because they bring diverse perspectives and approaches to solving problems,” she added.

Finding energy through empowering work

Despite their work and family responsibilities, both say their work at HFA gives them energy.

“What inspires us most is seeing real change in people’s lives — when someone lands a first job, a family

finds stable housing, or a child gains confidence through education and support,” Rivera said.

It’s that energy which helps sustain HFA’s many events, which reflects the diversity of the communities it serves and the many ways the organization connects and gives back. The annual winter gala fundraiser supports the mobile health unit. While fashion shows, clothing drives for people experiencing homelessness and year-round school supply drives help HFA engage the community, raise awareness and build relationships.

Planning for what comes next

Diversity is the thread that binds the people and the purpose of HFA which is why the pair continue to plan for even more outreach across the city. “As the needs in the community grow, so does our vision,” said Rivera.

Kubuanu and Rivera envision expanding HFA’s mobile health unit operation to bring screenings and basic care directly to more underserved populations.

They are also exploring expanding the organization’s job training programs, youth mentorship initiatives and partnerships that increase access to education and stable employment.

These kinds of plans help fuel the work they do now so they can plan for what comes next, Kubuanu said. “They remind us that even small acts of service can lead to lasting transformation. Knowing that our work is making a difference keeps us motivated every day.”

Visit hopeforallcharlotte.org for more information about Hope For All. P

Staying Alive How Small Businesses Are Surviving Today’s Challenging Economy

By Angela Lindsay

While starting a new business can be a daunting task, sustaining it — particularly in this current economic landscape — can seem downright overwhelming.

From rising costs and tariffs affecting supply chains to retaining customers who may be looking to make cuts to their spending habits, small business owners are navigating the often uncertain waters of entrepreneurship more than ever.

Small businesses are the primary engine of the U.S. economy, making up 99.9% of all businesses and driving employment and innovation. With roughly 36 million small businesses employing over 62 million people, they create roughly two-thirds of all new jobs and contribute nearly 44% of the U.S. GDP, according to a December 2025 report on USAfacts.org.

Also, small business owners are facing a challenging economic environment characterized by persistent inflation, restricted

Small businesses are the primary engine of the U.S. economy, making up 99.9% of all businesses and driving employment and innovation.

With roughly 36 million small businesses employing over 62 million people, they create roughly two-thirds of all new jobs and contribute nearly 44% of the U.S. GDP, according to a December 2025 report on USAfacts.org.

Left: Co-owners of Wiloe Home & Gift, Karly Allison-Poe (left) and Tanya Wilson; Right: Sherry Waters, owner of The Pauline Tea-Bar Apothecary

Photos courtesy of Tanya Wilson

Photos courtesy of Sherry Waters

access to capital and intense competition from large corporations, according to a May 2025 article on Forbes.com, “How Small Businesses Can Navigate Uncertainty and Boost Resiliency.”

Since Sherry Waters first opened The Pauline Tea-Bar Apothecary in the historic Camp Greene neighborhood seven years ago, she has watched seven high-rise apartment complexes go up beside her business. While she said she’s happy that her new neighbors can walk to the shop, the new construction has caused her lease to go up as well as increased property value costs. She cites operating costs, specifically her lease, as her biggest challenge.

“We’d love to purchase our own property, but it is quite high — even for the land,” she said.

Waters attempted a second physical location of her tea bar off of Beatties Ford Road and Oaklawn Avenue but says the rent there was even higher. So, after just one year in operation, that location was closed.

“Of course, the rise in tariffs and shipping has also made our tea inventory to be higher,” she added. “But we are a part of a national co-op where we source our teas from organic, ecosourced farmers.”

According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, inflation was the biggest challenge facing small business owners in the fourth quarter of 2025. Now, more small businesses are reporting increased challenges for both revenue and employee retention.

When Tanya Wilson and Karly Allison-Poe decided to open their Plaza Midwood home and gift store, Wiloe Home & Gift, in 2025, Wilson said they did so when the conversation around the economy was high inflation and high cost of living. However,

want new payment options, personalized service or faster delivery, small businesses need to listen and respond fast, according to the Forbes article.

we stay aligned to our values and our niche. Second, we lean into that niche while making sure we have an inviting, customer friendly environment of a local store. We find that people want a local connection with their products and store owners. Third, we pay close attention to the price point, so we

“Karly and I own and operate the store together every day. We have not hired out any work. We certainly understand there are pros and cons to that decision. However, it is a one of the ways we manage our expenses,” said Wilson.

“As far as other things we’re doing to manage the current environment, there are 3 things that come to mind. One,

remain in ranges that are still accessible to our customer base,” she said.

Additionally, a small business owner must have access to capital or have a creative way to obtain funds to make it through tough times. Investopedia suggests that small business owners have other potential sources of capital lined up such as tapping into savings, liquidating stock holdings, borrowing from family members, or getting creative with leveraging the business space itself. Establishing a good relationship with a banker is always useful as well.

“We’re managing by having diverse revenue streams, and I also do stewardship consulting/coaching with other social entrepreneurs and nonprofits — along with Spiritual Direction as a Community Chaplain,” said Waters.

Her tea bar also hosts holistic wellness classes, private rentals and special events — including live jazz music, open mic poetry and community gathering talks to retain patronage and circulation.

Wilson said rising gas prices is a particularly tangible challenge not only professionally but also for herself and her customers as well. “It was $20 more to fill up my gas tank. This type of expense takes away from customers’ disposable income which means they think twice about purchases,” she said. “This is ultimately a concern for us as a retail business.”

There are little steps small business owners can take to ward off these issues and ensure viability in times of economic uncertainty. Putting the customer first even more than ever is an important approach as customers are shifting behavior when it comes to consumer spending, the previously mentioned Forbes article reports. Rewarding customer loyalty in ways such as offering special discounts or coupon codes to be redeemed if the customer makes a purchase can go a long way to show appreciation and keep traffic coming through the door.

“We have been lucky because are still being discovered in Charlotte and in the neighborhood we serve, so our customer traffic continues to increase. We are next to other businesses. They’re new and fun, so our location creates a nice destination spot. We are also constantly doing things in community and neighborhoods, so our business is at top of mind.

Wilson also said providing good customer services is key. “It’s so important to the way we operate. When customers have a good experience, they share it with friends, neighbors, and businesses. Word of mouth is still the best marketing,” she said.

She also advises entrepreneurs to “stay in the uniqueness that has made you successful” and to be cognizant of their finances and prudent about spending. “Also, pay attention to things happening in the world,” she said. “Because it helps you stay informed about ow it may affect your business. And lastly, listen to your customers as they will keep you focused and bring new great ideas.”

ARTIST RENDERING

South End Welcomes The Story of Mi Cariño to the Area

By Sasha Manley

There’s a new restaurant in town serving up electric dishes inspired by Mexican and Latin cuisine.

From the team behind Vinyl Bar Spot and B-Side Production, The Story of “Mi Cariño” debuted earlier this year in Charlotte’s South End and promises an immersive, savory experience for guests.

Built with vision

Mi Cariño means “my darling” in Spanish and was inspired by several intentional factors, according to Culinary Director Vince Giancarlo: “Chef Hector

Inside the kitchen

The menu tells a story through its flavorful appetizers, oysters, toastadas, main courses, and desserts. Some signature menu highlights include 14-ounce Akaushi Wagyu Ribeye, Ceviche Tropicoso, and Truffle Corn Dip. A popular main course inspired by Chef Hector’s family lineage in Nayarit is the Camarones Kora: a jumbo shrimp dish served with butter sauce and coconut rice.

Giancarlo shares that their tortillas are a cornerstone of the food experience: “The tortillas are foundational to the menu and made using sourdough, house nixtamal, and locally sourced masa blend.”

González-Mora’s culinary perspective, the character of the historic South End space, and what we felt Charlotte’s dining scene was missing.”

The overall goal was to create an inviting, calm experience that allowed guests to pause and enjoy. “We wanted to create a chef-driven gastro-cantina and mezcalería that felt immersive and transportive — a place where food, beverage, music, and design all work together to slow people down and create connection,” said Giancarlo.

B-Side Production Beverage Director

Henry Schmulling manages the agave spirits program with over 200 options to explore. Some include Picante Infante, Yellow Bandana, and Chil Con Carne, a Mezcal Vago el Manantial. Low alcohol and mocktail options are available, too.

The team prides itself on sourcing local ingredients. Giancarlo provides some perspective on bringing their flavors together, sharing, “We work with farms and partners, including Harmony Ridge, Barbee Farms, Boy & Girl, Fairshare Farm,

Above: Hector González Mora, executive chef at The Story of Mi Cariño; Below: The Story of Mi Cariño Culinary Director, Vince Giancarlo; Left: Menu items: Taco Royale and Taco Vaqueiro

Vital Greens and Mai’s Farm, many through the local food hub Freshlist. We also source locally pressed corn tortillas from Concord.”

Some in-house practices include making nixtamal, salsas, sauces, sourdough tortillas and fresh Oaxaca Cheese.

The plans for The Story of Mi Cariño’s location were intentional from the start.

Located in a former busy restaurant building, the team wanted to preserve the area’s energy while creating their own impact.

“The former VANA space already had a strong emotional connection within South End. It offered a refuge from the heavier nightlife scene nearby, and we wanted to preserve that spirit while introducing a more culinary-forward experience to the neighborhood,”

Kamal Patel, a partner with B-Side Group, explained.

Spanning 2,350 square feet and seating approximately 85 guests, the atmosphere features low lighting and inviting engineering designed by Southwick Architecture + Interiors.

Patel sets the mood: “We’re also approaching Mexican and Latin cuisine

through a broader “Left Coast Latino” lens, pulling inspiration from regions and cultures stretching from Mexico City

“Restaurants are foundational to neighborhoods. From the beginning, we felt this space needed to be a restaurant first, not just another nightlife concept.”

—Kamal Patel

and Baja to Los Angeles and Central California, and sets the scene with locations from Los Angeles, Mexico City and Baja,” he said.

Beyond the plate

Although The Story of Mi Cariño is new to the neighborhood, the team is making sure they are an asset to the community.

“Restaurants are foundational to neighborhoods. From the beginning, we felt this space needed to be a restaurant first, not just another nightlife concept,” Patel said. “We work with local DJs, contractors, artists, farms, and creative partners throughout the business, and we’re committed to supporting local nonprofits and organizations whenever possible.” P

Access Services Celebrates 30 Years of Connecting Diverse Talent with Opportunity

By Sonja Whitemon

No matter the size of the company or the industry it serves, every successful business depends on one thing: good employees. In a fast-growing metropolitan area like Charlotte, competition for skilled workers is fierce. For nearly three decades, the city has ranked among the nation’s fastest-growing labor and population markets. Since 1990, the Charlotte metro area has more than doubled in size, growing from roughly 1.2 million residents to nearly 3 million today.

As the region has expanded, companies have increasingly relied on staffing partners to help them find and retain qualified talent. Access Services, a staffing company led by entrepreneurs Kevin Smith and Frank Johnson, launched in Charlotte in the late 1990s, at the beginning of the city’s population boom. Now celebrating 30 years in business, the company has grown right alongside Charlotte, helping employers navigate decades of rapid growth and an increasingly competitive labor market.

“At our core, our contribution to culture is simple but powerful. We connect people to opportunity, stability and growth. While often behind the scenes, we play a critical role in powering the workforce behind many successful organizations.”

—Frank Johinson

Over the years, Charlotte has also become significantly more diverse, fueled by domestic migration, international immigration and corporate expansion. Once primarily a Southern city with a largely Black-and-white population, the region has evolved into a multicultural hub with growing Hispanic and Asian communities. That demographic shift has broadened the labor pool and increased demand for bilingual and multicultural talent.

Frank Johnson, vice president of Access Services (left) and Kevin Smith, president of Access Services

“At our core, our contribution to culture is simple but powerful,” said Frank Johnson, vice president of Access Services. “We connect people to opportunity, stability and growth. While often behind the scenes, we play a critical role in powering the workforce behind many successful organizations.”

Access Services supplies skilled labor to companies across several industries. According to company president Kevin Smith, the firm specializes primarily in light industrial staffing, including

organizations such as NCWorks, the state’s official workforce development system, and the Urban League of Central Carolinas. The company also participates in job fairs hosted by local nonprofits and maintains a strong relationship with Central Piedmont Community College.

Senior Recruiting Manager Alisa Garrett said recruiting in the skilled trades often happens through personal connections and referrals.

“It’s very grassroots,” Garrett explained. “Electricians know other

manufacturing and warehouse positions, while also supporting the security and construction industries.

“We support construction companies from A through Z,” Smith said. “Everything from general laborers to carpenters, electricians and plumbers — all the skilled trades. On the light industrial side, we place pickers, packers, forklift drivers, and supervisory personnel as well.”

The company recruits candidates through a variety of channels. Access Services partners with community

electricians. Plumbers know plumbers. Carpenters know carpenters. A lot of recruiting happens through word of mouth because these trades are communities within themselves.”

As Charlotte’s workforce has evolved, so has the demand for bilingual employees, particularly Spanish speakers. Access Services works to meet those needs as well.

Recruiting Manager Kimberly Marquez said many of the company’s clients specifically require Spanishspeaking employees.

“One of my accounts requires me to hire Spanish speakers,” Marquez said. “Sometimes they’re bilingual in Spanish and English, and sometimes they’re native Spanish speakers with little or no English.”

Today, more than 100 people work daily through Access Services placements, according to Kevin Smith.

“A significant portion of our workforce includes Black, Latino and female talent, reflecting our deep roots in the communities we serve,” he said. “We act as advocates and guides, helping employees navigate workplace culture and position themselves for longterm success.”

Garrett said the company prides itself on giving skilled workers an opportunity, regardless of appearance or background.

“A significant portion of our workforce includes Black, Latino and female talent, reflecting our deep roots in the communities we serve.”

—Kevin Smith

“Everybody deserves a chance, and everybody deserves our services,” she said. “We work extremely hard to help our candidates. Someone can walk through the door with pink hair and tattoos, but if they have the experience and the skills, we’ll work to find the right opportunity for them. That’s how Kevin Smith and Frank Johnson have always operated.”

Over the past three decades, Access Services has built a client roster that includes companies in Charlotte and beyond, including Turner Construction, one of the nation’s largest construction firms, and Charlotte-based McFarland Construction.

As the company celebrates its 30th anniversary, its mission remains focused on connecting employers with qualified talent while helping workers build stable careers and long-term success. P

Access Services staff members from left to right: Nicole Alford, Yanira Espada, Kali Lipford, Brittany Cabuno, Alisa Garrett and Kimberly Marquez

McColl Center’s Transatlantic Stars Project Features Exceptional Work by Fiber Artists

By John Burton Jr.

For generations, Black folks have understood what the art world is only now beginning to fully recognize: Fabric tells stories.

Stories stitched into Sunday quilts by grandmothers whose hands carried exhaustion and excellence at the same time. Stories sewn into church hats, denim jackets, protest banners and patchwork blankets that somehow held entire family histories together.

In Black communities, textiles have never merely been materials. They have been memory, survival and testimony. That’s what makes the Transatlantic Rising Stars Project at McColl Center feel bigger than a traditional arts residency.

This spring, the Charlotte-based arts institution became the sole East Coast visual arts host for the European Union’s inaugural Transatlantic Stars Project, a three-year international

cultural exchange initiative led by the EU Delegation to the United States.

On paper, the program connects artists across Europe and America. But inside McColl Center’s studios, the exchange feels far more intimate than diplomatic. It feels human.

This inaugural year centers the work of Irish fiber artist Ally Nolan alongside American artists Nastassja Swift and Beverly Smith — three women whose work transforms textiles into conversations about identity, ancestry, labor and belonging.

And for Black audiences especially, the resonance lands differently. Because when Beverly Smith explores Southern quilting traditions, or when Nastassja Swift layers fabric into meditations on Black memory and lineage, they are drawing from a cultural archive many Black families already recognize instinctively.

Irish textile artist Ally Nolan

American sculptural fiber artist Nastassja Swift

American mixed media fiber artist Beverly Smith

These are not abstract artistic exercises. They are reflections of kitchens, porches, churches, beauty shops and living rooms where creativity has always existed, even when institutions refused to call it “fine art.”

That tension — the historical divide between whose creativity gets celebrated and whose gets dismissed — quietly hums beneath the entire project.

Cultural exchange programs can flatten people into aesthetics instead of allowing them to arrive as full human beings shaped by geography, race, gender, class and memory. But the structure of the Transatlantic Stars Project intentionally leans into community engagement: artist residencies, public conversations, open studios and collaborative programming designed to place artists in direct dialogue with Charlotte residents.

The Queen City is an important backdrop for this story.

Charlotte is still trying to understand itself beyond banking towers and rapid development. A city where Black neighborhoods have historically built culture while simultaneously fighting displacement. A city where conversations around identity, growth and belonging remain ongoing and unfinished.

That responsibility feels especially meaningful in a city still negotiating its cultural identity.

So there’s something powerful about an international arts initiative choosing fiber art — a medium historically associated with women, domestic labor and marginalized communities — as the center of its opening chapter.

Ally Nolan’s work, rooted in Irish textile traditions, examines labor and femininity through tactile installations that carry echoes of migration and inherited identity. Swift’s multidisciplinary practice explores Blackness and emotional memory through layered textiles that feel archival and deeply contemporary at once. Smith grounds her work in Southern Black storytelling traditions, using fiber to preserve communal resilience and cultural continuity.

Together, their work creates a transatlantic conversation stitched through shared histories of survival.

Above: “Too Much Sugar for a Dime” (2017) by Beverly Smith. Cotton canvas, cotton batting, embroidery thread, found objects, pencil, acrylic paint, antique lace and recycled quilt top. Right: Natassja Swift at work on a project

Charlotte increasingly positions itself “as a destination for culture globally.”

—Asa Jackson

And perhaps that’s why the project feels timely. At a moment when the world often feels fractured by politics, polarization and performance, there’s something almost radical about slowing down long enough to make something by hand — to sit in community, listen across difference and understand that thread itself can become language.

McColl Center’s role in the initiative also signals something larger about Charlotte’s growing cultural influence. Being selected by the European Union as the East Coast visual arts host

places the city inside a global network of artists and institutions shaping contemporary conversations about art and society.

“There was definitely a worthy amount of excitement but also equal amounts of responsibility… to know that we are representing the country and the arts sector of this country on this level,” said Asa Jackson, McColl Center President and CEO.

But beyond prestige, the project offers visibility. Visibility for fiber artists. Visibility for women’s creative labor. Visibility for Black cultural traditions that have long existed outside the spotlight while quietly shaping American art from the margins.

Jackson said the project’s long-term impact extends far beyond gallery walls. “I think it continues to deepen that groove of our place within the global landscape,” he said of the threeyear initiative. Charlotte increasingly positions itself “as a destination for culture globally,” he added.

In many ways, the Transatlantic Stars Project is not simply about Europe meeting America. It’s about people recognizing one another through texture, memory and story. One stitch at a time. P

Queen Quet Protects Gullah/Geechee Culture for Future Generations

By Loán C. Lake

Born and raised on St. Helena Island, South Carolina, Queen Quet, Marquetta L. Goodwine grew up immersed in the traditions, language and customs of the Gullah/Geechee people — descendants of enslaved Africans and Indigenous communities who lived along the Sea Islands and coastal regions stretching from along the coasts of North Carolina to Florida.

In April, WFAE hosted a fireside chat at the Dubois Center on UNC Charlotte’s uptown campus that featured Queen Quet, the internationally recognized chieftess and head of state of the Gullah/ Geechee Nation. WFAE President and CEO Ju-Don Marshall led the

discussion around the Gullah/ Geechee people, history, identity and cultural preservation.

Quet is also the founder of the Gullah/Geechee Sea Island Coalition. Marshall, who also has roots in South Carolina’s Lowcountry, guided a deeply personal and thought-provoking conversation about the resilience, evolution and preservation of Gullah/ Geechee culture.

For many African Americans raised in the Lowcountry, understanding the depth of Gullah/Geechee heritage often comes later in life — after leaving home for college or career opportunities and seeing their culture reflected through the eyes of others.

That theme of rediscovery, cultural pride and generational responsibility

became a central thread throughout the evening.

She reflected on the decades-long fight to preserve and accurately represent the language, traditions and identity of her people — descendants of enslaved Africans and Indigenous communities who lived along the Sea Islands and coastal regions stretching from North Carolina to Florida.

“Thirty years ago, the first organization in world history to exist with Gullah/ Geechee in the name was the coalition,” she said. “Even the spelling and formatting of “Gullah/Geechee” carries symbolic meaning. I rejected separating the words with a space or hyphen because separation symbolizes division. Instead, I chose the slash as a symbol of connection and unity,” she said.

The evening also highlighted how perceptions of Gullah/Geechee culture have shifted over time. Marshall reflected on growing up in South Carolina’s Lowcountry during a time when many students were discouraged or even shamed for speaking in the dialect associated with the culture — a sentiment echoed by several audience members during the discussion.

Today, however, younger generations are embracing their heritage openly on social media, introducing audiences around the world to Gullah/Geechee storytelling, foodways and traditions.

Queen Quet, Marquetta L. Goodwine, chieftess and head of state of the Gullah/Geechee Nation

Ervin Gourdine, Rubie Britt-Height, WFAE’s director of community engagement and partnerships (center), and Dr. Yolanda Holmes at WFAE’s fireside chat

Queen Quet acknowledged the increased visibility but cautioned against reducing the culture to internet trends or stereotypes. “Our language is not slang,” she said. “People are hearing things online and calling it Gullah/ Geechee. This is a living language and culture.”

Throughout the discussion, she emphasized that Gullah/Geechee identity

ongoing threats facing Gullah/Geechee communities as development expands throughout coastal regions increasingly vulnerable to climate change. For Queen Quet, protecting the land is inseparable from protecting the people. “If the root is not healed, the tree will die,” she said.

The conversation also turned toward the future — specifically about artificial intelligence and cultural preservation.

is rooted not simply in geography or race, but in lineage, community and generational continuity. “Just because you’re Black doesn’t make you Gullah/ Geechee,” she said. “It’s about continuous lineage and heritage.”

For many in attendance, the conversation became both historical and deeply personal. Queen Quet spoke candidly about the pain many families now experience trying to trace ancestry after generations of silence or displacement.

“Elders often wouldn’t talk because they thought they were protecting us,” she explained. “Now so much collective consciousness has literally been buried in the ground.” Still, she said she remains hopeful about the future of the culture — especially when younger generations are intentionally taught to value it. “Preservation is what you do with buildings. I live my culture. That’s how you continue it,” Queen Quet said.

The conversation also touched on land ownership, environmental justice and the

Above: WFAE President and CEO Ju-Don Marshall interviews Queen Quet at the radio staton’s fireside chat at UNC Charlotte in April; Below: WFAE fireside chat attendees

When asked how she is preparing younger generations to carry the Gullah/Geechee legacy forward in the age of AI, Queen Quet — a trained computer scientist and mathematician — shared how she has taught herself various AI platforms and begun using the technology to preserve and teach authentic cultural history.

“In real time, I’m learning AI and teaching it the correct information,” she said. Misinformation often comes from people outside the culture attempting to define it themselves, she added.

Using verified information from the coalition, Queen Quet now creates children’s books, animated cartoons and educational videos designed to reach younger audiences on platforms like Facebook and TikTok. Her digital content often leads viewers back to the real people and traditions behind the cultural materials.

As interest in Gullah/Geechee culture continues to grow nationally through film, food and social media, Queen Quet’s message remained clear: The culture is not a trend. It’s a living legacy rooted in history, struggle, language, land and community — one deserving both celebration and protection. “Our culture is not something to be laughed at. I’m using those as tools to teach and inspire so people can reclaim the culture,” she said. P

Summer Readiness in Charlotte How to stay safe during heat waves, storms and power outages

By Derik Hicks

Summer in Charlotte brings sunshine, lake trips, cookouts and outdoor fun, but it also brings extreme heat, sudden storms, flooding and power outages. Local officials say preparation and awareness are essential for staying safe during the region’s unpredictable summer weather.

Heat waves

As temperatures climb into the 90s, Mecklenburg County officials encourage residents to take the heat seriously, especially during long stretches of hot weather.

Duke Energy expects higher electricity use during the summer as air-conditioning systems work harder to keep homes cool. Zach Vavricka of Duke Energy said residents can stay comfortable while reducing energy costs with a few simple steps.

“Changing air filters, clearing debris around outdoor units, and setting your thermostat to the highest comfortable setting can help your system run more efficiently,” Vavricka said.

Duke Energy also recommends closing blinds on sunny windows and using ceiling fans in a counterclockwise direction to improve airflow while reducing cooling costs.

Hot weather can also increase fire risks, especially during dry conditions. Shannon Clubb of Mecklenburg County Land Use and Environmental Services Code Enforcement said grass, leaves and brush can dry out quickly during periods of high temperatures and low humidity. “Even a small spark can spread more easily,” Clubb said.

Residents spending time outdoors should stay alert because the weather can change rapidly during Charlotte summers. “Warm, sunny mornings can turn into stormy afternoons,” said Corinne Rizzo, Senior Communication Specialist with CharlotteMecklenburg Storm Water Services.

Officials encourage families visiting parks and lakes to monitor weather forecasts, stay hydrated, and have a plan for shelter if conditions worsen. They should also check swim advisories and water quality alerts before heading out. Mecklenburg County residents can receive alerts by texting MECKNOSWIM to 888-777.

Prepare for storms

Summer storms are one of the biggest weather threats in Mecklenburg County. While many people focus on heat or drought conditions, local officials say flooding can develop quickly during sudden thunderstorms. “Flooding is Mecklenburg County’s primary severe weather-related risk, and it can happen anywhere,” Rizzo said.

Storm Water Services uses its Flood Information Notification System to monitor rainfall and creek levels throughout the county. Residents can also use the county’s public 3-D Floodzone Map at StormWater. CharMeck.org to better understand flood risks near their homes.

Officials warn residents never to drive or walk through floodwaters. “Turn around, don’t drown,” she said. “Six inches of moving floodwater can knock a pedestrian off their feet. Twelve inches of floodwater can disable or sweep away a vehicle.”

Residents should also prepare for lightning, strong winds and rapidly changing conditions during outdoor activities. “Make a plan for changing weather and know where to go to seek safety,” said Rizzo.

Corinne Rizzo, Senior Communication Specialist at Charlotte-Mecklenburg Storm Water Services, shares information at an outreach event

Local officials recommend staying weather-aware through smartphone alerts, local news coverage, or portable weather radios. Rizzo says weather radios remain one of the most valuable emergency tools households can own. “A lot of them can be used to charge your device in an emergency, and some even have built-in flashlights,” she said. “Mine is solar-powered.”

Mecklenburg County officials also encourage residents to sign up for

emergency updates and public safety information at www.charlottenc.gov/ Public-Safety/Emergency-Management/ Get-Emergency-Alerts.

Power outages

Summer storms often lead to power outages across the Charlotte area. According to Duke Energy, trees remain one of the leading causes of outages during severe weather. “Trees are part of the natural beauty of this area, but are typically the leading cause of power outages,” Vavricka said.

To reduce outages, Duke Energy conducts year-round tree trimming, infrastructure upgrades and grid improvements. The company also uses “self-healing” technology that automatically reroutes power when outages occur. According to Duke Energy, the technology helped prevent over 1.4 million customer outages across the Carolinas in 2025.

Still, officials stress that residents should prepare before storms arrive. “Have a plan in place if you lose power for an extended period of time, especially if you or a family member relies on electricity for medical needs,” Vavricka said.

Emergency preparedness kits should include:

• Flashlights

• Batteries

• Bottled water

• Nonperishable food

• Medications

• Fully charged phones

• Portable chargers

• Weather radios

Residents who use generators should always operate them outdoors and never inside homes or garages because of carbon monoxide dangers.

Duke Energy says restoration efforts begin immediately once conditions are safe for crews. During major outages, the company first restores power to critical infrastructure such as hospitals, emergency services and water systems before moving into neighborhoods.

Residents can track outages and restoration updates through Duke Energy’s outage map, mobile app, text alerts, or by calling 800.POWERON (800-769-3766).

Local officials say preparation remains the key to staying safe throughout the summer. “We want our community to understand their risk, make emergency plans and stay safe and informed,” Rizzo said P

Corinne Rizzo speaks to young students at an outreach event.

Pride Goes to… the Nigerian American Golf Group Tournament

From April 30 to May 3, 2026, the Nigerian American Gold Group (NAGG) held a marquee outing in Charlotte, North Carolina, with 122 golfers of Nigerian descent and their guests playing on a few Charlotte-area courses.

NAGG is a national organization that promotes golf, camaraderie, and professional networking within the Nigerian American community. Founded in 2014, NAGG hosts multiday tournaments and social events across major U.S. cities, uniting members from diverse professional and cultural backgrounds.

NAGG emphasizes brotherhood, community engagement, friendly competition and broadening participation in the game. The group has grown into one of the largest African golf networking groups, blending sport, culture, travel and relationship building P

Minority and Women-owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) Training and Support

Minority Business Development Agency 202-482-2332

www.mbda.gov

N.C. Minority and Women Business Enterprise Coordinators’ Network www.mwbecoordinators.org

National Institute of Minority Economic Development 919-956-8889 www.theinstitutenc.org

MWBE Certification

Carolinas-Virginia Minority Supplier Development Council 704-549-1000 www.cvmsdc.org

Charlotte Business INClusion 704-336-4137 www.charlottenc.gov/Growthand-Development/CBI

Small Business and Technology Development Center 919-715-7272 www.sbtdc.org

Statewide Uniform Certification Program (SWUC)

*N.C. Dept. of Administration Office for Historically Underutilized Businesses 984-236-0130 www.doa.nc.gov/divisions/historicallyunderutilized-businesses-hub

Corporate

Supplier Diversity

Advocate Health Supply Chain Alliance advocatehealthsupplychainalliance.org

Balfour Beatty

LaQuiana Bailey Minority Business Development Manager 919-233-5001 www.balfourbeattyus.com

Bank of America www.bankofamerica.com

Compass Group

Aleshia Felder-McMath SVP of Culture, Equity & Inclusion 704-328-4000 www.compass-usa.com

Duke Energy

Andrew Grier

Supplier Diversity Executive 704-382-7690 andrewgrier@duke-energy.com www.duke-energy.com/ partner-with-us/suppliers

Food Lion

Garland Scarboro

Inclusion & Organizational Engagement Manager 704-310-2589

Garland.Scarboro@foodlion.com

Novant Health supplierdiversity@novanthealth.org www.novanthealth.org/about/ our-commitment/belonging

Piedmont Natural Gas gasadvantage.piedmontng.com/ doing-business-with-us/ Walmart Stores, Inc. corporate.walmart.com/ suppliers/supplier-inclusion

Wells Fargo supplierportal@wellsfargo.com www.wellsfargo.com/about/ corporate/supplier-registration/

Businesses

Administrative Services

Cybertary Charlotte 704-256-4717

charlotte.cybertary.com/

Global Linking Solutions 877-914-5465 www.gls.com

Advertising Agencies/ Promotional Products

AC&M Group www.acmconnect.com

Bitflip Technologies, Inc. 704-293-5049 www.bitfliptech.com

Brand RPM 704-225-1800 www.brandrpm.com

BRK Global Marketing 704-275-9577 brkmarketing.com

Bullseye Branding and Promotions 657-210-0673 www.bullseyebp.com

CGR Creative 704-266-0765 www.cgrcreative.com

Classic Achievements, Inc. 980-819-9176 www.classicachievements.com

CMRignite 704-828-5743 www.cmrignite.com

Creative Marketing Ideas 310-367-5000

www.creativemkg.com

Equine Marketing Group 704-663-4487 www.equinemarketinggroup.com

Internet Marketing Charlotte 704-236-6936 www.internetmarketingclt.com

Jason Robinson www.robinsonthinks.com Jaunt joltmicrotransit.com

KS Image Solutions, LLC 704-786-7763 ksimagesolutions.espwebsite.com

Logo Pros 704-545-7408 www.logopros.us

Logo’d Gear 704-334-9333 www.logodgear.com

MDC Marketing Group, LLC www.mdcmarketinggroup.com

Media Power Advertising, Inc. 704-896-0310 www.mediapoweradvertising.com

Motivation Marketing Firm 704-326-2187 www.MotivationMarketingFirm.com

PanacheConsulting 980-221-2699 www.panacheconsultingllc.com

PIApromo 704-593-1256 www.piapromo.com

Pride Communications, Inc. 704-375-9553 www.pridemagazineonline.com

QCityMetro.com www.qcitymetro.com

S&B Computers and Office Products, Inc. 800-254-8089 www.sbcomputers-office.com

Spark Strategic Ideas, LLC 704-625-2185 www.sparkstrategicideas.com

The Agency Angle 704-564-9694 www.agencyangle.com

The Narmer Group, LLC 678-787-8098 www.thenarmergroup.com

Zaja PR 980-272-1804 www.zajapr.com

Zuri Creative www.zuricreative.com

Architects

CES Group Engineers, LLP 704-489-1500 www.ces-group.net

FM Supplies 336-391-8653 www.fmsupplies-fms.com

Neighboring Concepts 704-374-0916 www.neighboringconcepts.com

The Wilson Group Architects 704-331-9747 www.twgarchitects.com

Attorneys

Barbara L. White 704-375-9411 www.barbaralwhite.com

Barnes Law Office, PLLC 704-548-0093 www.barneslawnow.com

Benjamin M. Li 704-527-0878

Bishop, Dulaney, Joyner & Abner, P.A. 704-945-9850 www.bdjalaw.com

Brady & Kosofsky, PA 704-849-8008 www.bandklaw.com

Closing Carolina Law Offices of Michelle Vereckey, PLLC 704-283-5555 www.closingcarolina.com

Collins Family & Elder Law Group 704-289-3250 www.collinsfamilylaw.com

DeMayo Law Offices, LLP 866-257-3475 www.demayolaw.com

Douglas H. Kim Law Firm 704-504-0962 www.douglaskimlawfirm.com

Ferguson Chambers & Sumter, P.A. 704-375-8461 www.fergusonsumter.com

Gardner Skelton, PLLC 704-335-0350 www.gardnerskelton.com

GPS Law Group 704-549-1950 www.gpslawnc.com

Hands Law Office, PLLC 704-459-7410 www.handslawonline.com

Houston Law Office 704-595-9146

HW Legal Group 704-954-8094 www.hwlegalgroup.com

Ken Harris & Associates 704-343-2620 www.khalegal.com

Kimberly Poe Law Office 704-489-8182

Law Office of Tin Thanh Nguyen, PLLC 704-461-1527 www.luatsutin.com

Law Offices of T. Michael Todd, PLLC 704-343-9700

Lori Keeton Law 704-552-3614 www.lorikeetonlaw.com

Mickle & Bass Law Firm 803-265-5638 www.mickleandbass.com

Mitchell & Suhr PLLC 919-876-4707 www.paulsuhr.com

Ramsay Law Firm, P.A. 704-376-1616 www.ramsaylawfirm.com

Roderick G. Davis Attorney & Counselor at Law 704-632-1500 rgdavislaw.wixsite. com/roderick-davis

Starrett Law Firm, PLLC 704-887-4944 www.starrettlawfirm.com

The Corbett Law Firm, PLLC 704-401-5299 www.cmlaw-nc.com

The Freedmen Law Group 704-271-2048 thefreedmenlawgroup.com

The Justice Firm, LLC 704-377-4747 www.thejusticefirm.com

The Law Office of Cheryl R. Watkins 704-552-3993 www.crwatkinslaw.com

The Law Office of Lisa A. Dubs 828-323-1926 www.dubslaw.com

The Law Offices of William H. Harding 704-504-7854 www.williamhharding.com

The Montgomery Law Firm, PLLC 704-312-7360 www.themlawfirm.com

The Snow Legal Group, PLLC 704-761-7660 snowlegal.com

The Wright Law Firm 704-332-2274 wright4justice.com

Tippens & Zurosky Attorneys, L.L.P. 704-343-0018 www.tandzlaw.com

York Harmon Johnson 704-375-4480 www.yhjlaw.com

Book Stores

Book Buyers

704-344-8611 bookbuyerscharlotte.com/home

Park Road Books

704-525-9239 www.parkroadbooks.com

Main Street Books 704-892-6841 www.mainstreetbooksdavidson.com

The Book Rack 704-544-8006 www.charlottebookrack.com

Julia’s Café & Books 704-295-4585 www.juliascafe.org

KEMETIC Science Institute 704-910-6783 www.kemeticscienceInstitute.com

Communications/

Media-Related Services

ACP, Inc. 704-676-5880 www.goacp.com

Alliance of Professionals & Consultants, Inc. 919-510-9696 www.apcinc.com

Aquent 617-535-5000 www.aquent.com

BCforward 866-363-1132 www.bcforward.com

CGR Creative 704-266-0765 www.cgrcreative.com

CITI, INC. 704-969-2484 www.citi-inc.com

Jameson Advisory Group 980-202-3111 www.jagclt.com

Mark III Media 704-269-8640 markiiimedia.com

Media Power Advertising 704-896-0310 www.mediapoweradvertising.com

Network Cabling Systems, Inc. 704-523-8606 www.networkcablingsystems.com

Yellow Duck Marketing, LLC 704-271-9555 www.yellowduckmarketing.com

Computers/ Printers/Web

Action Graphics 704-393-9393 www.actionprints.com

A Cultivated Mindset www.acultivatedmindset.com

Applied Data Technologies 704-847-3000 www.applieddatatech.com

Blueline Technologies 866-BLUE-LTI bluelti.com

Business Policy Solutions, LLC www.bpolicysolutions.com

CompuTech Consulting, LLC 704-499-8967 www.computech-consulting.us

Computer House Calls 704-549-4334 www.chc-clt.com/ Computel Systems 704-541-8659 www.computelsys.com

Computer Geeks 800-433-5435 www.computergeeksnow.com

Copy Cat Printing 704-529-6606 www.copycatsouth.com

CPI Training Solutions Inc. 704-593-8999 solutionsrus.com/contact.html

Creech Computer Consulting, Inc. www.creechcomputers.com

Experienced Recruiting Partners LLC 518-598-6300 experiencedrecruitingpartners.com

Hardison Cartridge, LLC 704-564-1203 www.hardisoncartridge.com IT-HenHouse 980-393-3402 www.it-henhouse.com

JCMR Technology, Inc. 704-707-3333 www.jcmr.net

Laury Controls & Design 704-785-6788 www.laurycontrols.com

Liberty Laser Solutions 800-570-1987 www.libertylasersolutions.com

Lorven Group, Inc. 704-899-5200 www.lorvengroupinc.com

MPG Consulting Services LLC 980-666-8144 www.mpgcs.com

“ “The biggest risk is not taking any risk. In a world that’s changing quickly, the only strategy that is guaranteed to fail is not taking risks.”

Mid-Carolina Reprographics

704-529-0612 www.mid-carolinaplans.com

NTT DATA Consulting us.nttdata.com

Neteffect Technologies 704-688-7153 www.ne-t.com

NYQuest Adventures Computer Repair 980-333-8074 alboogie9605.wixsite.com/nyquest

Patriot Technology Solutions patriottechnology.net

Rush Computer Rentals 800-883-7874 www.rushcomputer.com

SMS Tech Solutions, LLC 800-656-7702 www.smstechsolutions.com

Stratagon, Inc 888-506-3466 www.stratagon.com

Sunshine Media Network 704-249-5022 www.sunshinemedianetwork.com

Syntelli Solutions Inc 877-796-8355 www.syntelli.com

The Imagine Group 800-368-1056 www.theimaginegroup.com

UTD Technology Corp

704-612-0121 x101 www.utdtechnology.com

Xtramile Soft, LLC 704-699-9912 www.xtramilesoft.com

Dentists/Orthodontists

A Smile 4U Family Dentistry

704-549-1199 www.Smile4ucharlotte.com

Alliance Dental Group 704-610-3328

Carmel Commons Dental & Imaging 704-412-4629 www.carmelcommonsdental.com

Carolina Aesthetic Dentistry

704-793-4211 www.ncaestheticdds.com

Dasling Dentistry

704-594-9250 www.daslingdentistry.com

Dual Image Orthodontics

704-269-8495 www.dualimageortho.com

Eagle Shembo Dentistry

704-503-0202 www.eagleshembodentistry.com

Eastover Dental

704-364-8962 www.eastoverdental.com

Friendly Dental Group of Ballantyne

704-494-7990 www.friendlydentalgroup. com/ballantyne

Jackson Orthodontics

704-464-0696 www.drjacksonsmiles.com

Matthews Periodontics 803-373-9997 www.matthewsperio.com

Orchard Lake Dentistry

704-849-6700 www.orchardlakedentistry.com

OrthoCare Orthodontics

704-509-4999 www.drcooperortho.com

Palmieri Dentistry

704-981-2925 www.palmieridentistry.com

Sandy Stovall, DDS

704-549-5600 www.stovalldentistry.com

Smart Orthodontics

704-684-9354 www.smartorthodontics.com

Smile Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

704-971-7272 www.mykidsmile.com

Smile Savvy Cosmetic Dentistry

704-233-3327 smilesavvydentistry.com

SouthEnd Premier Dentistry 704-288-4830 www.southendpremierdentistry.com

Steven H. Ghim, DMD

704-935-2700

www.drstevenghim.com

University Pediatric Dentistry 704-486-2739 www.funnydds.com

U. Phillip Igbinadolor & Associates 704-494-8484 www.upidental.com

Waverly Dental 704-246-7677 www.waverlydentalgroup.com

Webber Dentistry 704-392-9357 www.webberdentistry.com

Young & Polite Children’s Dentistry 704-587-7336 www.youngandpolite.com

Electrical Services

Adams Electric Company 704-940-6080 www.adams-electric.com

Beam Electric Company, Inc. 704-333-9094 www.beamelectric.com

Gaylor Electric, Inc. 317-214-6300 www.gaylor.com

Infinity Contractors 817-838-8700 www.infinitycontractors.com

Interstate Electric Company, Inc. 704-333-7149 www.interstateelectriccompany.com

IRV Plumbing, Electric & HVAC 704-544-0200 www.irvplumbing.com

Jenkins Electric, Inc. 866-770-4692 www.jenkinselectric.com

Jim Dickerson Co. 980-577-3665 www.jim-dickerson.com

McNaughton-McKay Electric Co. 844-687-6262 www.mc-mc.com

Pike Corporation, Inc. 800-424-7453 www.pike.com

Qwest Electric, LLC

704-662-3900 www.qwestelectricllc.com

Starr Electric Company, Inc. 704-568-6600 www.starrelectric.net

Summit Air and Electric 704-597-0940 www.summitairandelectric.com

Watson Electric Company, Inc. 704-393-0220 www.watsonelec.com

WB Moore Company 704-331-9300 www.wbmoore.com

White Electric Company of Charlotte 704-594-4612 www.whiteelectriccompany.com

Ethnic Food Items/ Grocery Stores

Anh Dao Sakura Oriental Market 704-525-9840

Caribbean Hut 704-527-9505 www.caribbean-hut.com

Carolina Smoothies 704-358-0006

Central Market 704-567-2071

Charlotte Market International 704-527-5771 charlottemarketinternational.com

Compare Foods 704-596-3495 www.compareclt.com

Eloquent Creations Catering & Design Services, LLC

704-200-6883 www.eloquentcreationscatering.com

Honey Butter Bakery 704-421-1390 www.honeybutterbakery.com

La Unica Supermarket 864-269-0016 launicasupermarket.com

New Century Oriental Food Supermarket 704-921-1716

Ole Mexican Foods 704-587-1763

One Stop Food Store 704-347-1747

Organic Marketplace 704-864-0605 www.organicmarketnc.com

Oriental Food Market, Inc. 704-537-4281

Patel Brothers 704-509-2305 www.PatelBros.com

Super G Mart 980-321-4048 www.supergmart.com

Sweet It Is! Bakery 704-351-4668 www.sweetitis.net

The Uptown Catering Company 704-332-5521 www.theuptowncateringco.com

Truly Good Foods 800-438-4470 www.trulygoodfoods.com

Events/Party Planning

Aisha Thomas Events Aishathomas.com

Botanica Lights, LLC 704-737-0962 www.botanicalights.com

Creative Catering 704-373-2900 www.creativecateringinc.net

Extravaganza Events 704-343-9200 www.extravaganzaevents.com

It’s My Affair 704-394-4928 www.itsmyaffair.com

Key Signature Entertainment 704-568-1968 keysignatureonline.com

Platinum Events by Andrea 704-458-6234 andreaschicdesigns.com

The Kee Group 704-726-6838 www.keepingeventsepic.com

The Main Event 704-332-5819 www.themaineventnc.com

Engineering

Advanced Enclosure Consulting 704-361-8664 www.aeconsulting-usa.com

Atom Engineering, PLLC 980-938-5231 www.atomengineers.com

C2 Engineering Solutions, PLLC 704-266-0942 www.rcengineering.net

CriTek Engineering Group 336-348-1889 www.critekgroup.com

Devita, Inc. 877-433-8482 www.devitainc.com

DiCon Consulting www.diconconsulting.com

High Performance Building Solutions, Inc. 704-299-1698 www.hpb-solutions.com

Hinde Engineering, Inc. 704-814-4407 www.hindeengineering.com

Jones Civil Design, P.C. 704-412-8523 www.jonescivildesign.com

Little Diversified 704-525-6350 www.littleonline.com

Shultz Engineering Group 704-334-7363 www.shultzeg.com

Smiley Engineering, Inc. 803-548-4111 www.smileyengineering.com

System WorCx, PLLC 704-996-9924 www.systemworcx.com

Watson Electric Company, Inc. 704-393-0220 www.watsonelec.com

Wescott Structures, P.A. 704-921-0504 www.wescottstructures.com

Willis Engineers, Inc. 704-377-9844 www.willisengineers.com

Financial Services

ATG Advisors

704-303-9998 www.atgadvisors.com

Anderson & Associates 704-347-0090 www.andersonexecsearch.com

Belinda Johnson CPA PA 704-333-2733 bjmycpa.com

Cadence Bank 877-738-6391

cadencebank.com/personal/ savings/cds/cd-bundle

Carter Insurance & Financial Services 704-542-7500

agents.allstate.com/luthercarter-jr-charlotte-nc.html

Cornerstone Wealth Planning 704-849-0123 www.cornerstone4planning.com

Financial Compliance Group, Inc. 704-412-8440 www.financialcompliancegroup.com

Freedom Financial Advantage, LLC 704-905-9867 www.freedomfinancialadvantage.com

GM Financial 704-719-3570 www.gmfinancial.com

J & G Legacy Financial Group, LLC 704-625-1203 www.jandglegacy.com

Jimerson Advisory Group 346-206-2957 jimersoncpa.com

JP Financial Group LLC 704-543-6269 www.jpfinancialgroupllc.com

M&F Bank 704-332-2121 www.mfbonline.com

Ocean Advisors, LLC 704-523-6914 www.oceanadvisors.com

Rose & Associates Southeast 704-896-0094 www.roseassociates.com

Self-Help Credit Union 704-554-7201 www.self-help.org

“ I had to make my own living and my own opportunity. But I made it! Don't sit down and wait for the opportunities to come. Get up and make them.”

— Madam C.J. Walker

The Real Money Coach 704-954-8666 www.therealmoneycoach.com

Tucker Boynton Financial Group

704-366-5085 www.tbfinancial.com

Worth Advisors Group 704-731-0121 www.worthadvisors.com

Fitness/Wellness

70Flow Pilates and Wellness www.70flow.com

BBT Fitness

704-960-8778 www.bbtfitness.com

Better Bodies 4 Us, LLC www.betterbodies4us.com

Core Elevation Fitness & Wellness www.coreelevationfitness.com

Discovery Chiropractic and Wellness Center, PLLC 704-946-2054 www.discoverychirowellness.com

Fernando Loor Vera Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu 704-512-9397 www.martialartscharlottenc.com

My Gym 704-522-6966 www.mygym.com/charlotte

N’Shape with’N 704-334-4848 www.nshapewithn.com

The Underground Effect 980-270-1337 undergroundeffect.net/ Toushea Skincare www.etsy.com/shop/ TousheaBodyBoutique

Ultimate CrossFit 704-497-4099 www.ultimatecrossfit.com

Food/Catering/ Food Trucks

Carolima’s Lowcountry Cuisine 843-900-4467 www.Carolimas.com

Catering by Cordre 704-412-4048 cateringbycordre.com

Catering by Tara 704-492-3791 cateringbytara.com

Creative Catering 704-373-2900 www.creativecateringinc.net

FDY, Inc. 704-523-6605 fdyinc.com

Jewell Treats 980-202-2530 www.jewelltreats.com

Manolos Bakery 704-568-2120 www.manolosbakery.com

Ms. Black’s Soulful Spoon 980-494-3605 msblacksoulfulspoon.com

Popbar 980-237-9750 www.pop-bar.com

Popcorn Heaven 803-216-5197 www.popcornheaven.com

Round The Way Eatery 704-408-7381 www.roundthewayeatery.com

Smallcakes Utopia www.smallcakesutopia.com

Sweet Potato Jones Catering and Events 704-962-1748 www.sweetpj.com

Zippy Ice Inc. 980-355-9851 www.zippyicecompany.com

Graphic Design

Airboat www.airboatstudio.com

Cosmopolitan Creative Group 912-507-1708 cosmopolitancreativegroup.com

Cynthia Frank Design 704-562-2616 www.artwork.cynthiafrankdesign.com

Goodstuff Creative 704-254-3277 www.goodstuffcreative.com

Jai Black Design jaiblackdesign.com

Moonlight Creative Group 704-332-9918 www.moonlightcreative.com

New Creations Media Group 704-971-7854 www.newcreationsmedia.biz

SPARK Publications 704-844-6080 www.SPARKpublications.com

Steele Creek Printing & Design, Inc. 704-697-1755 Steelecreekprinting.com

The Imagine Group 800-368-1056 www.theimaginegroup.com

Virtual Illustrations 704-287-7023 www.virtualillustrations.com

Vistec Graphx, Inc. 704-377-6626 www.vistecmarketing.com

Zuri Creative www.zuricreative.com

Health Care/Medical

Arboretum Gynecology

704-341-1103

arboretumgyn.com

Advantage Vision Center 704-375-3935 www.advantagevisioncenter.net

Americare Health PC 704-535-0400

Arboretum Obstetrics & Gynecology 704-341-1103 www.arboretumgyn.com/

Barbara G Green Physical Therapy

704-377-0020

barbaragreenphysicaltherapy.com

Bright Diamond Medical Spa and Wellness 980-506-7913 www.brightdiamondmedical.com/

Carolinas Eye Center 704-510-3100

Carolina Family Healthcare 704-847-4000 www.carolinafamilyhealthcare.com

Carolina Pediatric Therapy 828-845-4079 www.carolinapeds.com/ contact/charlotte-clinic Center for Personal Growth 704-655-2828 www.center-for-growth.com

Charlotte Pediatric Dentistry 980-393-8925 www.cltpediatricdentistry.com

Charlotte Speech and Hearing Center 704-523-8027 www.charlottespeechhearing.com

Cynthia Busher 704-522-8300 www.cynthiabusher.com

First Care Medical Clinic 704-291-9267 www.firstcarecanhelp.com

HomeCare for the Carolinas, LLC 704-335-8488 www.homecareforthecarolinas.com

JP Chiropractic & Posture 704-841-1701 www.jpchiropractic.com

Lancaster One Medical 803-286-5700 www.lancasteronemed.com

M.D. Laser Studio 704-664-4247 www.mdlaserstudio.com

Mount Holly Eye Clinic, Inc. 704-822-0099

locations.myeyedr.com/nc/mountholly/612-south-main-street

Planned Parenthood

704-536-7233

www.plannedparenthood.org/ health-center/north-carolina/ charlotte/28204/charlottehealth-center-2703-90860

Premier Pharmacy and Wellness Center 704-496-9182 www.yourwellnesskey.com

PrimeCare Medical Center 704-966-7012 www.primecaremed.org

Speechworks Therapy Services 980-237-6226

www.speechworkstherapy.com

Thuanhanh Nguyen, MD Internal Medicine & Pediatrics 704-554-8880

Transcendent Accents 980-500-9195 www.transcendentaccents.com

Trusted Companion Home Care 704-412-8472 trustedcompanionhc.com/

Williams Chiropractic and Wellness, PLLC 980-237-8489 www.drcleyawcw.com

Heating and Air Conditioning

AeroRaq Engineering Inc. 704-469-8463

www.aeroraq.com

Air Diagnostics, Inc. 704-634-1926

www.airdiagnostics.net/

Air One Heating and Cooling, LLC 704-946-2751

www.aironecoolandheat.com

All Systems Restored HVAC & Electrical, LLC 704-909-2826 www.allsystemsrestored.com

AME Consulting Engineers, PC 704-295-4263 www.ame-pc.com

Carolina Air Team 336-988-3542

Climate Control of Charlotte 704-588-2066 www.climatecontrolcharlotte.com

E2 Mechanical 704-399-8786 www.catawbamechanical.com

Environmental Controls & Mechanical 704-910-2692

www.ecmsolution.com/

Gordon’s Heating & A/C 704-370-7789

Greater Electrical Services, LLC

980-200-6294

KID Construction Company, Inc.

704-277-4679

Mckenney’s Inc.

704-357-1616

www.mckenneys.com

Native Air

704-312-8589 www.NativeAirandHeat.com

Performance Air, Inc.

704-394-4748

Premier Diversified Resources 980-944-9068 www.pdresourcesnc.com

Refresco, PLLC

704-293-8011 www.refresco-pllc.com

Superior Mechanical Systems of Charlotte, Inc. 704-335-1942 www.superiormsinc.com

Home Improvement Services

Advanced Roofing & Exteriors, LLC

704-999-4130 advancedroofingandexteriors.com

All Elite Construction 704-946-2019 alleliteconstructionllc.com

Alvakanda Construction 704-326-7014 www.avkdcompany.com

Alpha Omega Construction Group 844-704-7663 www.alpha-omegainc.com American Fence 704-523-4936 www.americanfenceclt.com

Apex Exterminating, Inc. 704-573-1197 www.apexexterminatinginc.com

A Devine Lock and Key

704-579-4799

www.adevinelockandkey.com

Bullseye Construction, Inc.

704-889-2855

www.bullseyeconstructioninc.com

Camden Roofing and Construction, LLC

704-858-2141 www.camdenroofinggc.com

Carolina Custom Installations, Inc.

704-568-7277 www.cci-floors.com

Carolina Door Specialties, Inc

704-391-7133

www.carolinadoorspecialties.com

CertaPro Painters of North Charlotte

704-489-0957

www.certapro.com/north-charlotte

Charlotte Plantscapes, Inc

704-529-1399

www.charlotteplantscapes.com

Environmental Design Landscape, LLC

704-597-2193 www.edlnc.com

Find it K9 Detection (Bed Bug Specialists) 980-505-7878 www.finditk9detection.com

Fresh & Bright Corp.

704-763-4229 www.freshandbrightcorp.com

Genesis Construction of the Carolinas 704-266-3737 www.genesiscoc.com

Green Clean Commercial 866-845-4948 www.greencleancommercial.com

HMO Pest Control

704-400-2334 www.hmo-pestcontrol.com

Jiron’s Construction, Inc. 704-626-5395 www.jironconstruction.com

Kim’s Professional Painting 704-349-1810

www.kimsprofessionalpainting.com

Lightning Fast Lawn Care 704-726-4391

Paraclete Incorporated 704-661-2599

www.paracleteinc.co

Queen City Master Services 800-326-5540

www.masterservicescontractor.com

Tillman’s Lawn Care LLC 704-891-7584

tillmanlawncaretlc@gmail.com

United Painting Services, Inc. 704-684-0357 www.unitedpaintingservices.com

Human Resources/ Executive Search

Absolute Staffing & Consulting Solutions 410-848-9480 ascs1.com

AccruePartners, Inc. 704-632-9955 www.accruepartners.com

Advocations, LLC. 877-365-9675 www.advocations.io

AF Image Group, LLC 952-240-8228 www.afimagegroup. com/af-image/main Allegiance Staffing 704-556-1770 www.allegiancestaffing.com Alliance of Professionals & Consultants, Inc. 919-510-9696 www.apcinc.com

ASDI Consulting Services 877-811-1216 www.asdiconsulting.com

Before You Hire, Inc. 704-878-3600 www.beforeyouhireinc.com

Bergman Brothers Staffing 704-537-1230 www.bergmanbrothers.com

Burnett Resources, Inc. 888-237-4108 www.burnettresources.com

Career Match Solutions 855-267-6282 www.careermatchsolutions.com

CEO, Inc. 888-242-1755 www.ceoinc.com

Compass Career Management Solutions 704-849-2500 www.compasscareer.com

Corestaff Services www.corestaff.com

CRG Workforce 704-665-9555 www.getcrg.com

Be Evolved HR 919-576-9279 www.beevolvedhr.com

Employment Practices Counsel Inc. 980-207-1137 www.epcounsel.com

FirstPoint, Inc. 800-288-7408 www.firstpointresources.com

Galilee Agency, Inc. 704-394-0674 www.galileeagency.com

Global Talent Scouts 980-833-4222 recruitgts.com/ HR Unequivocally® 704-644-9152 www.hrugroup.com

Infinite HR of Charlotte 704-750-5611 www.infinitehrofcharlotte.com/

Integra Staffing 704-527-9191 www.integrastaffing.com

Jennifer Temps, Inc. 704-510-1556 www.jennifertemps.com

“ Embrace what you don't know, especially in the beginning, because what you don't know can become your greatest asset.”

— Sara Blakely

Kavaliro Staffing Services

704-525-3457 www.kavaliro.com

Kforce

704-612-2800 www.kforce.com/find-an-office/ charlotte-north-carolina

Kwin Consulting Inc.

704-287-7653 Ext.101 www.kwinconsulting.com

Language Resource Center Inc 877-322-1244

www.languagerc.net

LeadAdvantage, Inc. 501-687-5323 www.leadadvantageinc.com

Legacy Staffing 980-221-7817 legacystaffingnc.com

Little Gerald Services 704-289-3831 www.lgservicesnc.org

Medical Administrative Solutions 704-944-3571 www.mascodingsolutions.com

Mindseeker Professional Services Inc.

571-313-5950 www.mindseeker.com

Performance Staffing Solutions, Inc.

704-927-1477 www.performss.com

PrideStaff

704-237-4103 www.pridestaff.com

ProLogistix 704-522-9166 www.prologistix.com

Refulgent Technologies Inc. 704-405-4238 www.refulgent-tech.com

Sappenfield Staffing, Inc. 704-577-8701 sappenfieldstaffing.com

SourceAbility, Incorporated 704-837-8200 www.sourceabilityinc.com

Staffing Groups

704-421-4826

staffinggroups.com

Staffmark 704-588-1745 www.staffmark.com

Trinity Strategic Consulting, Inc. www.trinitystrategicconsulting.com

VisionCor, Inc.

704-366-7979 www.visioncor.com

Xperience Leadership, LLC 704-896-9881 www.xperienceleadership.com/

Insurance Services

ACOP, LLC.

888-508-2267 www.acopprotection.com

Altmann & Porter Insurance 704-795-9001 www.altmanninsurance.com

Art Stover

704-504-0564 agents.allstate.com/arthurstover-hendersonville-nc.html

Carolina Insurance School, Inc. 704-489-9440 www.carolinainsuranceschool.com

Dawn Johnson Agency 803-980-1414

www.statefarm.com/agent/ US/SC/Rock-Hill/DawnJohnson-Z4JGF1YS000

Group Insurance Solutions, Inc.

704-543-9314 www.groupinsurancesolutions.com

Hayes Insurance Agency

704-545-3337

www.hayesinsuranceagent.com

Moulton Insurance Group 704-332-9222 www.moultoninsgroup.com/

Rankin Insurance Group, Inc.

704-896-9393

www.rankininsurancegroup.com

Relation Insurance 800-456-1696

www.relationinsurance.com

Janitorial/Custodial

ATL & C Cleaning Service

704-839-0283

www.atlccleans.com

Bucket, Mop, and Broom Cleaning Service LLC 877-784-0781

www.bucketmopandbroom.com

Elite Touch Cleaning Services, Inc.

704-859-8669

www.elitetouchcleaningservices.com

Environmental Service Systems, LLC

800-459-7343

www.environmentalss.com

Green’s Commercial Cleaning, Inc.

704-525-5859

www.greenscommercialcleaning.com

JAC Janitorial Services

704-401-7142

www.jacjanitorialservice.com

JC Services Unlimited 980-253-7256 www.jcservicesunlimited.com

Joffie Contracting Services, Inc. 704-392-4442

www.joffie.com

Minit Maids 704-367-9931 www.minitmaids.com

Miriam Davis Cleaning, LLC 704-201-6111 www.miriamdaviscleaning.com

MOLLY MAID of North Charlotte / Matthews 980-342-2350 www.mollymaid.com/n-charlottematthews-concord-huntersville/

Mr. Clean Maintenance Company 980-339-5399 www.mrcleanco.com

Sparkle & Shine Cleaning Service 919-466-9001 www.sparkle-shinecleaning.com

Squeaky Completely Clean www.scclean.net

The Johnson Group 704-522-3544 www.aejohnsongroup.com

Top Pro Cleaners 704-241-6206 www.topprocleaners.com

Latin American Chamber Charlotte

1900 Mexican Grill 704-334-4677 www.1900mexicangrill.com

AC&M Group 704-697-4400 www.acmconnect.com

AFC Custom Granite 704-598-1647 www.afccustomgranite.com

Agua Source, LLC 704-831-8311 www.aguasourcellc.com

America’s Real Estate Group, Inc. 704-540-4646 www.myamericasrealtor.com

Apex Exterminating, Inc. 704-573-1197 www.apexexterminatinginc.com

Arlette Guerra de Hurtado 704-591-1338 www.agpmrealtyinc.com

Avon Products

Liz Bell 919-695-6400 Youravon.com/elizabethbell

Avon Products

Myriam Gladney 704-814-7318

“

Baruu Advertising

888-841-0179

www.baruu.com

Beauty & Body Rituals

704-568-5458

Bonilla Brothers, LLC

704-737-7124

www.bonillaroofingnc.com

Borealis Language Academy 980-207-3958 www.borealislanguage.com

Cambio Coaching LLC

704-497-2340 www.cambiocoach.com

Camino Salud

704-596-5606 caminosalud.com/

Carnitas Guanajuato Mexican Restaurant

704-733-9184 www.carnitasmexican.com

Casanova Siding 980-272-6892 casanovasiding.com

Celia Estrada Realtors 980-722-9298 www.facebook.com/ CeliaEstradaRealtors1/ Centro Medico Latino, PC 704-333-0465

www.centromedicolatino.com

Concepcion Barajas Painting 704-557-5072

www.concepcionbarajaspainting.com

CSB Promo 704-708-5088 www.csbpromo.com

Culturati Research & Consulting, Inc. 858-750-2600 culturatiresearch.com

Daniela Melendez State Farm 704-733-9022 www.mysfrep.com

Dentist Salud 704-705-4744 dentistsalud.com

Dulce Dreams Cafe www.dulcedreamscafe.com/

El Soplon Deportivo 704-238-0260

Elite Touch Cleaning Services, Inc. 704-389-5014 www.elitetouchcleaning.com

Exotic Landscapes & Irrigation 704-537-0842 www.exotic-landscapes.com

Hernandez Auto Service 828-310-1326

Into Languages Global 704-408-3132

www.intolanguagesglobal.com

Johamar, Tires/Wheels 704-847-0175

LaCa Projects 704-837-1688 www.lacaprojects.com

La Noticia, The SpanishLanguage Newspaper 704-568-6966 www.lanoticia.com

Latin American Coalition 704-531-3848 mylac.org

Latin Labor Staffing 704-676-5282 latinlabor.net

Latino Community Credit Union

704-531-0201 www.latinoccu.org

Latorre Insurance Group 844-566-8181 www.latorreinsurance.com

Latorre Law Firm 704-342-1111 www.latorrelaw.com

Manolos Bakery 704-568-2120 manolosbakery.com

Metro Landmarks 704-526-7600

Mundo Uniforms, LLC 704-287-1527

www.mundouniforms.com

Precise Language Solutions 888-321-6991

preciselanguages.com/Home

Progreso Hispano Newspaper 704-529-6624

www.progresohispanonews.com

Promotion Magic 704-596-2300 www.promotionmagic.com

Punta Cana Grill 704-529-3599

www.puntacanagrillclt.com

QuéPasa Media Network 704-319-5044

www.quepasamedia.com/charlotte/ RentMeUSA

980-355-9696 www.rentameusa.com

Rivus Construction 704-444-0000 rivusnc.com

Sign Connection 704-868-4500 www.signcon.com

USTT, Inc. 704-676-0990 www.usttusa.com

Celebrating 30 YEARS

Windsor Jewelers 704-556-7747 www.windsor-jewelers.com

Marketing/Public Relations

AC&M Group

704-697-4400 www.acmconnect.com

Apple Rock Displays 1-800-478-2324 www.applerock.com

Bogues Group 910-634-0054 boguesgroup.com

CGR Creative 704-266-0765 www.cgrcreative.com

Compass Career Management Solutions 704-849-2500 www.compasscareer.com

Digital Divas 201-304-2933

Dream Builders Communication, Inc. 704-727-5006 dreambuilderscommunication.com

Eaddy, Perry & Associates, Inc. 704-965-6956 www.eaddyperry.com

Fast Signs 704-981-8530 www.fastsigns.com

Finishing Partners, Inc. 704-583-7322 www.finishingpartners.com

Image Solutions

704-619-1539 www.imagesolutions.biz

Jason Robinson www.robinsonthinks.com

KS Image Solutions, LLC 704-786-7763 www.ksimagesolutions.com

Lockman-Brooks Marketing Services 704-944-3188 www.lockmanbrooks.com

MDC Marketing Group www.mdcmarketinggroup.com

Minuteman Press 704-782-2020 www.concordimp.com

Motivation Marketing Firm 704-326-2187 motivationmarketingfirm.com/ Mythic Advertising & Marketing 980-500-0828 www.mythic.us

Panache Consulting 980-221-2699 www.panacheconsultingllc.com

The Agency 704-564-9694 www.lepragency.com

The Jervay Agency www.thejervayagency.com

The LEPR Agency www.lepragency.com

Zaja PR 980-272-1804 www.zajapr.com

Media/Magazines/ Newspapers/Radio

Beasley Media Group www.BBGI.com

BEI Audio and Video 704-362-5333 www.breidingelectronics.com

Humanity Communications Collective 803-216-5880 humanitycom.com

La Noticia 704-568-6966 www.lanoticia.com

Lake Norman Currents 704-677-9159 www.lncurrents.com

Lake Norman Woman 704-895-6168 www.lakenormanwoman.com

LaRaza — 106.1FM 704-405-3170 www.facebook.com/laraza106.1fm

Norsan Media 704-759-4428 www.norsanmedia.com

QCitymetro.com www.qcitymetro.com

QuéPasa Media 704-319-5044 www.quepasamedia.com

Pride Communications/ Pride Magazine 704-375-9553 www.pridemagazineonline.com

Radio One — 105.3 RnB, Praise 100.9FM 704-548-7800 www.1053rnb.com www.praisecharlotte.com

Speak Up Magazine 704-980-9885 www.speakupmag.org

The Charlotte Post 704-376-0496 www.thecharlottepost.com

Mental Health

Essential Assessments & Behavioral Health 980-939-5099 www.EssentialHealthNC.com

Peaceful Aura Behavioral Health Services 704-388-6736 www.peacefulaura.com

Pride in North Carolina 252-321-8080 www.pridenc.com

The FMRT Group 336-761-0764 www.fmrt.com

Vaya Health 800-962-9003 www.vayahealth.com

Office Supplies/ Services

Aaron’s 877-607-9999 www.aarons.com

Beardsley Office Solutions, LLC 704-395-3081 www.beardsleyoffice.com

Bullseye Branding and Promotions 657-210-0673 www.bullseyebp.com

Office Depot 704-464-0014 www.OfficeDepot.com

Richa Graphics 704-331-9744 www.richa.com

Shred-It, Inc. 800-697-4733 www.shredit.com

UPS Store - Stewart Creek Crossing 704-392-5099 store5926@theupsstore.com

Optometrists

Advantage Vision Center 704-375-3935 www.advantagevisioncenter.com

Fort Mill Vision Center 803-547-5547 www.fortmillvision.com

Photography/Aerial/ Commercial

Avioimage Mapping Services, Inc. 704-573-7080 www.avioimage.com

Boyle 704-676-0778 www.boyleconsulting.com

Flawless Capture Photography & Productions, LLC www.flawlesscapture.net

Henry Jones Photography 803-361-0279 henryjonesphotography.com

Indigo Photography 704-778-5603 www.indigocharlotte.com

JB Long Photography jblongphotography.com

Joanna Dehart Photography 704-517-1819 www.joannadehartphotography.com

Kim Brattain Media 704-562-9161 www.kimbrattain.com

Loyd Visuals 704-336-9170 www.loydvisuals.com

Media Arts Collective, LLC 704-771-9927 www.mediaartscollective.com

Moments by Donna 704-364-1215 www.momentsbydonna.com

Origin Land Surveying and Mapping, Inc. 704-506-5225 www.originlandsurveying.com

PPT Photography 704-293-7459 pptphoto.photoreflect.com

TO2 Photography, LLC 704-879-1592 www.to2photo.com

Vizuals in Motion vizualsinmotion.myportfolio. com/home

Plumbers

Agua Source 704-831-8311 www.aguasourcellc.com

Crockett Quality Plumbing LLC. 704-231-1531 Qualityplumbing.Crockett@aol.com

Dependable Plumbing 704-982-6938

Heyworth Plumbing Company, Inc. 704-523-2696

Morris-Jenkins Plumbing 704-357-0484 www.MorrisJenkins.com

National Plumbing Solutions 704-309-9565

Pay Less Plumbing 704-393-9032

Reed’s Plumbing Company 704-399-7785

Rooter Man 866-577-1221 www.rooterman.com

Roper Construction 704-332-6737 www.roperconstruction.com

The Boswell Group

704-289-8986 www.theboswellgroup.com

Printers

310 Signs Co.

704-910-2242 www.310signs.com

Action Graphics

704-393-9393 www.actionprints.com

Allegra Marketing, Print, and Mail

704-376-0938 www.allegramarketingprint.com

American Labels & Printing 704-633-8005

Brightflow Technologies 704-585-1010 www.brightflow.net

Copy Cat Printing 704-529-6606 www.copycatsouth.com

Fast Signs

Pineville/Ballantyne 704-275-9204 www.fastsigns.com/pinevilleballantyne-charlotte-nc/

FSI Office

800-532-0335 www.fsiofficefurniture.com

ImageMark

800-632-9513 www.imagemarkonline.com

Image Solutions

704-619-1539 www.imagesolutions.biz

Lake Printing and Design 704-895-3878 www.lakeprinting.biz

Liberty Laser Solutions 800-570-1987 www.libertylasersolutions.com

Marie’s Print Shop, Inc. 704-633-1125

Mid-Carolina Reprographics, LLC www.mid-carolinaplans.com

Proforma Impressions Group

704-575-2743

proforma.com/impressionsgroup

RR Donnelly 800-782-4892 www.rrd.com

Richa Graphics 704-331-9744 www.richa.com

Social Ape Marketing 980-288-7804 www.socialapemarketing.com

The Charlotte Post Publishing Co. Inc. 704-376-0496 www.thecharlottepost.com

The Imagine Group 800-368-1056 www.theimaginegroup.com

Underground PrintingCustom T-Shirts & More 980-495-0324 www.Undergroundshirts.com/clt

Vision Print Solutions 800-200-9797 www.visionenvelope.com

Publishing/CustomPublishing Books

Radiant Chapters Collective 704-844-6088 radiantchapters.org

SPARK Publications 704-844-6080 www.SPARKpublications.com

Real Estate

Canopy Realtor Association 704-372-0911 www.CarolinaHome.com

Morton Malloy Realtors 704-773-6457

Nettie Lark, REALTOR

Morton Malloy Realty 704-340-3862 704-773-6457

Servant Heart Realty Group 704-748-0922 www.servantheartrealtygroup.com/ our-firm

Valarie R. Brooks Real Estate 704-448-0688 www.valarierbrooks.com

Recycling/Junk Removal/Shredding

C & M Recycling, Inc. 704-599-1771 www.gotsomeconcrete.com

Carolina Recycles 704-376-4295 www.carolinarecycles.com

Junk King 980-216-4038 www.junk-king.com/ locations/charlotte Shred-It, Inc. 800-697-4733 www.shredit.com

Suburban Sanitation 704-323-6030 suburban-sanitation.com

Remodeling

Anointed Flooring, Inc. 704-510-8906 www.anointedflooring.com

B2L Construction LLC 704-559-9573 www.b2lconstructions.com

Interior Motives by Will Smith LLC 704-523-0935 www.interiormotives.ws JMC Finishing Services 704-607-7966 www.jmcpaintingcharlotte.com

Mister Sparky 980-391-2487 www.mistersparky.com

Nance Construction 704-910-5613 www.nancegc.com

ToddCo Builders, Inc. 704-277-6338 instagram.com/toddcobuildersnc/

Restaurants

Asian

Basil Thai CuisineCharlotte, NC 704-332-7212 www.eatatbasil.com

Be-Em Asian Kitchen 704-491-4374 www.be-em.com

Dim Sum Chinese Restaurant 704-569-1128 www.dimsumchineserestaurant.com

Golden Taipei 704-494-8688

House of Leng 704-510-5081 www.houseofleng.com

Nikko Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar 704-370-0100 www.nikkosushibar.com

Ru San’s 704-374-0008 www.rusans.com/

Soho Bistro 704-333-5189 www.sohobistroclt.com

Shun Lee Palace, Inc. 704-366-2025 www.shunleecharlotte.com

Thai House - University 980-859-3009 www.thaihouse.us.com

Thai Orchid 704-364-1134 thaiorchidrestaurantcharlotte.com

Thai Taste 704-332-0001 www.thaitastecharlotte.com

“ If you really look closely, most overnight successes took a long time.”

—

Multicultural Cuisine

Azteca Mexican Restaurant (Woodlawn) 704-525-5110

www.aztecarestaurantcharlotte. com/locations/woodlawn

Bobbee O’s BBQ

704-509-6902 www.bobbeeosbbq.com

Chicken Box 704-566-6000 www.thechickenboxcafe.com

Copper Cuisine of India 704-333-0063 www.copperrestaurant.com

Don Pedro Mexican Restaurant 704-921-2414 www.donpedrorestaurant.com

Los Paisas (Colombian) 704-542-5477 www.lospaisasrestaurant.com

Mr. Charles Chicken & Fish 704-333-0455 www.mrcharleschickenandfish.com

Mr. Charles Chicken & Fish 704-595-7410 www.mrcharleschickenandfish.com

Maharani Indian Cuisine 704-370-2455 www.maharanicharlotte.com

Mert’s Heart & Soul 704-342-4222 www.mertscharlotte.com

Monterrey 704-593-0167 www.monterreyuncc.com

Nana Morrisons Soul Food 704-357-3700 www.nanamorrisonssoulfood.com

Oh My Soul 704-891-4664 www.ohmysoulusa.com

Saffron Indian Restaurant 980-297-7722 www.saffron-cuisine.com

Soul Central 980-819-5094 www.soulcentralfood.com

Three Amigos Mexican Grill & Cantina 704-536-1851 www.threeamigoscharlotte.com

Security Alarms and Services

Alpha Alarm Systems, Inc. 980-495-0306 www.alphasecurity.us

Firestop Carolinas, Inc. 704-662-7720 www.firestopcarolinas.com

JP Investigative Group, Inc. 877-990-2111 jpgovernmentinvestigations.com

Keyper Systems 704-455-9400 www.keypersystems.com/global/en

Landmark Security, Inc. 704-910-7616 www.landmarksecurityinc.com

LifeGuard Protective Services, Inc. 704-319-3180 www.lifeguardprotective.com

Professional Protection, Inc.

704-523-1660 www.ppi-inc.net

Professional Security Services 1-888-704-7765 www.pssprotection.com

SAF Technologies, Inc.

704-844-0955 www.saftechnologies.com

Security Solutions Group & Investigative Services 540-205-2087 www.ssgis.com

Silver Shield Security 704-440-4688 www.silvershield-security.com

Southeastern Public Safety Group 704-394-1500 www.southeasternus.org

Signs

DAWA, Inc. 704-321-4748 www.dawainc.com

FastSigns - S. Tryon 704-981-8530 www.fastsigns.com/176

Graphical Creations, Inc. 704-888-8870 www.graphi-cal.com

Metrolina Sign Supply 704-343-0885 www.metrolinasignsupply.com

Mohawk Traffic Services, LLC 704-351-5145 www.Mohawktrafficservices.com

Quality Neon, Inc. 704-598-2256 www.qualityneoninc.com

Rite Lite Signs 704-788-7097 ritelitesigns.com

Signarama 704-835-1123 www.signarama-pineville.com

Sign Innovations 704-375-2338

Signs by Tomorrow 704-527-6100 www.signsbytomorrow. com/charlottesouth

Signs Now 704-343-9619 www.signsnow.com/uptowncharlotte

Signs, ETC of Charlotte 704-522-8860 www.signsetcofcharlotte.com

Street Sweeping/ Parking Lots

Sweeping Corp. of America

888-SWEEPING www.sweepingcorp.com

Tiger Contracting USA 603-760-8575

Tax Return Preparation

ABC Tax Services

704-735-7900 www.abc-taxservices.com

Accounting Associates

704-864-0284 www.accountingassociatesnc.com

Accounting-Tax-Governance 704-303-9998 www.atgadvisors.com

BeeTax 704-569-1911 beetaxnc.com

Burchett Financial Services 704-549-9401 www.burchettfinancial.com

Bustle Tax Service 704-873-3946

H&R Block 704-503-1502 www.hrblock.com

Hawkins Accounting & Tax Service 704-509-2399 www.hawkinstax.net

Liberty Tax Service 704-373-1343 www.libertytax.com

Lucas Tax & Energy Consulting 704-968-5506 www.lucastaxandenergy.com

M.N.D. Accounting 866-774-9447 www.mndaccounting.com

Next Wave Tax Services 980-250-5761 www.nextwavetaxservices.com

“ You must be very patient, very persistent. The world isn’t going to shower gold coins on you just because you have a good idea.”

— Herb Kelleher

Proctor & Assocs.

704-385-1040 www.proctortaxprep.com

Storey’s Tax Bookkeeping & Secretarial 704-865-0210 www.storeystaxservice.com

TaxPro 1000 Instant Tax Centers 704-596-3400 www.taxpro1000.com

Taxis

Avalon Bus Services 704-522-8258 avalonbus.com

Crown Cab Company, Inc. 704-334-6666 www.crowncabinc.com

Luxury Transportation 704-458-9126

Prestige Wheelchair Transportation 704-332-3939

Sunshine Transportation Services, LLC 980-335-7511 sunshinetransportationservice.com

Video Production

180 Productions, LLC

704-277-2818 www.180productionsgroup.com

Civilized Films, Inc. 704-904-6368 www.civilizedfilms.com

Kim Brattain Media 704-352-2010 www.kimbrattain.com

Rebrand Collective 510-862-6757 www.rebrandlifestyle.com

Robert Burns II Photography & Videography, LLC www.robertburnsiiwedding.com

SL Media Productions 704-222-0012 www.bridalshoot.com

Stratagon Inc. 888-506-3466 www.stratagon.com

Toney Black Jr Media www.toneyblackjrmedia.com

Web Design

CB Branding & Co.

502-377-0138 www.cbbrandingco.com

Digital Made Simple 502-377-0138 www.digital-madesimple.com

New Creations Media Group 704-971-7854 newcreationsmedia.biz Neon Sky 704-377-4820 www.neonsky.com

STP Ventures, LLC 704-305-6217 www.stpventures.com

The Agency Angle 704.564.9694 www.agencyangle.com

Zuri Creative www.zuricreative.com

Nonprofits

Chambers of Commerce

Carolinas Asian-American Chamber of Commerce 877-988-2742 www.caacc.com

Carolinas LGBT+ Chamber of Commerce 704-837-4050 www.clgbtcc.org

Charlotte Latin American Chamber of Commerce 704-237-0315 www.lacccharlotte.com

Charlotte Regional Business Alliance 704-378-1300 www.charlotteregion.com

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Black Chamber of Commerce www.linkedin.com/ company/thecmbcc/

Business & Civic Organizations

100 Black Men of Charlotte 704-375-7300 www.100blackmenofcharlotte.org

Altrusa International of Charlotte districtthree.altrusa.org/charlotte

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Republican Women

980-355-9604

www.cmrw.org

Chinese-American Association of Charlotte chineseamericanassociation.org/ Democratic Women of Mecklenburg County www.meckdemwomen.com

Elizabeth House Foundation 704-828-8969 elizabethhousefoundation.org

Hmong Southeast Puavpheej www.hmongsoutheastpuavpheej.org

Homes of Hope, Inc

704-982-3634 www.homesofhopestanly.org

InnerVision, Inc.

704-377-5042 www.innervisionnc.org

Internal Revenue Service Charlotte 844-545-5640 www.irs.gov

Junior Achievement of Central Carolinas 704-536-9668 centralcarolinas.ja.org

Latin American Coalition

704-531-3848 mylac.org

Latin Americans Working for Achievement

704-552-1003 www.lawanc.org

League of Women Voters of Charlotte-Mecklenburg 704-556-4600 goleaguego.org

Metrolina Minority Contractors Association

877-526-6205 www.mmcaofcharlotte.org

N.C. Small Business Administration (SBA) 704-344-6563 www.sba.gov/district/north-carolina National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Charlotte 704-900-3067 www.nawbocharlotte.org

National Black MBA Association — Charlotte Chapter 877-732-0314

www.nbmbaacharlotte.org

National Diversity Council 281-975-0626 nationaldiversitycouncil.org

National Hispanic Entrepreneurs’ Organization, Inc. www.nheo.org

Neighborhood Good Samaritan Center 704-605-6723

704-531-9989 www.ngscenter.org

North Carolina Diversity Council nationaldiversitycouncil.org

Philippine American Association of North Carolina www.paanc.org

Pride Educational Empowerment Program (PEEP)

980-264-2148

SCORE

704-344-6576

www.score.org/charlotte

Urban LeagueCentral Carolinas

704-373-2256

www.urbanleaguecc.org

Vietnamese Association

704-607-7661

vietcharlotte.wixsite.com/vietcharlotte

Wat Lao Buddharam & Lao Community Center 704-391-9956

www.facebook.com/ watlaobuddharamnc/

Women’s Business Center of Charlotte 704-509-5884

www.linktr.ee/wbccharlotte

Women’s Inter-Cultural Exchange 704-336-9125 www.wi-ce.org

Community Services

Ascend Non-Profit Solutions

704-943-9400

www.ascendnps.org

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Carolinas 704-910-1301

www.bbbscentralcarolinas.org

Carolina Refugee Resettlement Agency 704-535-8803

www.carolinarefugee.org

Center of Hope/ Salvation Army (Shelter for women and children) 704-348-2560

migration.salvationarmy.org/ greater-charlotte/shelter-1

Community Link 704-943-9490

www.communitylinknc.org

Crisis Assistance Ministry 704-371-3001

www.crisisassistance.org

Hope Haven, Inc. 704-372-8809

www.hopehaveninc.org

Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services 704-336-3000

dss.mecknc.gov

Refugee Support Services 704-458-3245

www.refugeesupportservices.org

Roof Above 704-347-0278 www.roofabove.org

Safe Alliance 704-332-9034

www.safealliance.org

Supportive Housing Communities 704-335-9380

www.supportivehousing communities.org

Thompson Prevention 704-536-0375

www.thompsoncff.org/prevention

United Way of Central Carolinas, Inc.

211 (information and referral services) 704-372-7170

www.unitedwaygreaterclt.org

YMCA of Greater Charlotte 704-716-6200

www.ymcacharlotte.org

“ Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.”

— Henry Ford

Pride Magazine - Charlotte Multicultural Resource MagazineJuly 2026-2027

New to Tryon Medical.

FromTheCEO

Mi Experiencia en la Ciudad de México

TheVegucator

SThe Recovery Tray Rethinking Food and Care

Food education and healing

A system reset

Central Piedmont Community College builds Charlotte’s tech pipeline through AI and IT training

Why Central Piedmont for IT and AI training?

Superspecies

How generative AI contributes to your life and your business

Using AI in everyday life

AI’s effects in the long term

AI is not a tool — it has agency

Replacing human intelligence with AI

AI really knows us

Meet Dr. Sunil Erevelles at the Pride Awards

How La Bodeguita Forms Connection Through Creativity

Finding Home A Charlotte couple plans to move to Ghana

Nonprofit Charity, Hope For All, Is Rooted in Diversity and Driven by Service

Service based on lived experiences

Finding energy through empowering work

Planning for what comes next

Staying Alive How Small Businesses Are Surviving Today’s Challenging Economy

South End Welcomes The Story of Mi Cariño to the Area

Built with vision

Inside the kitchen

B-Side Production Beverage Director

Beyond the plate

Access Services Celebrates 30 Years of Connecting Diverse Talent with Opportunity

McColl Center’s Transatlantic Stars Project Features Exceptional Work by Fiber Artists

Queen Quet Protects Gullah/Geechee Culture for Future Generations

Summer Readiness in Charlotte How to stay safe during heat waves, storms and power outages

Heat waves

Prepare for storms

Power outages

Pride Goes to… the Nigerian American Golf Group Tournament

MWBE Certification

Corporate

Businesses

Administrative Services

Attorneys

Book Stores

Communications/

Electrical Services

Events/Party Planning

Fitness/Wellness

Food/Catering/ Food Trucks

Health Care/Medical

Heating and Air Conditioning

Home Improvement Services

Insurance Services

Janitorial/Custodial

Celebrating 30 YEARS

Office Supplies/ Services

Optometrists

Photography/Aerial/ Commercial

Real Estate

Restaurants

Multicultural Cuisine

Security Alarms and Services

Signs

Tax Return Preparation

Taxis

Web Design

Nonprofits

Community Services

Building pathways to prosperity