Pride Magazine - Charlotte Multicultural Resource Magazine 2025-2026

Artist José Vázquez

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33 No. 4

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Charlotte’s African-American Magazine

By Jenene Seymour, Director of Diversity and Community Engagement, Rodgers

Why Supplier Diversity Still Matters

Companies that prioritize sourcing from small and diverse-owned businesses don’t just strengthen their communities — they often outperform their competitors. Supplier diversity programs spark local economic growth through job creation, increased tax revenue, and community reinvestment. Yet despite these proven benefits, such programs continue to face growing scrutiny and resistance.

Building a diverse supply chain takes time, resources, and above all, commitment. Corporate culture, unconscious bias, and doubts about return on investment can all stand in the way. Without full buy-in from leadership, supplier diversity is often treated as a feel-good initiative instead of a business priority, and that’s where traditional procurement practices take over, favoring long-established vendors with largerscale capabilities.

Even companies that are fully invested in supplier diversity can face roadblocks. For many industries, there simply aren’t enough underrepresented businesses with the scale to meet large project demands — not because these firms lack talent or quality, but because they often lack access to the infrastructure, financing, or skilled workforce needed to grow. Without intervention, this creates a self-perpetuating cycle: companies don’t award contracts because businesses can’t scale, and businesses can’t scale because they don’t win contracts.

In construction, this has long been a challenge. Diverse firms often face hurdles meeting bonding requirements, acquiring equipment, or ramping up crews on short notice. And now, as the industry contends with skilled labor shortages, evolving technology, and rising costs, building a more inclusive and resilient supply chain isn’t just the right thing to do — it’s a business necessity.

Ongoing political debates around diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)

These initiatives aren’t about checking boxes. They’re about expanding opportunity, increasing competition, and building a stronger, more innovative economy.

have only added to the complexity. Supplier diversity programs — often a central part of corporate DEI efforts — are being paused or quietly abandoned in some sectors. But we can’t afford to lose momentum. These initiatives aren’t about checking boxes. They’re about expanding opportunity, increasing competition, and building a stronger, more innovative economy.

In Charlotte, a city experiencing extraordinary growth and transformation, supplier diversity is more important than ever. We have a chance, and a responsibility, to ensure that economic development is inclusive. Investing in diverse-owned businesses is one way we help build an economy that reflects and uplifts the communities that fuel it.

The path forward requires partnership. Corporations, suppliers, government agencies, and financial institutions must work together to identify capacity gaps and open new doors. That includes mentorship, phased partnerships, technical training, and capital investment. When supplier diversity is aligned with a company’s core business strategy — not just compliance — everyone benefits.

As our economy continues to evolve, recommitting to inclusive procurement isn’t just good PR — it’s smart business. In a region as dynamic and diverse as Charlotte, supplier diversity remains one of our most powerful tools for shared prosperity and long-term resilience. P

u n i q u e l y p o s i t i o n e d t o m e e t a l l y o u r a u t o m o t i v e n e e d s

W h a t t r u l y d i s t i n g u i s h e s M i l l s A u t o m o t i v e G r o u p i s o u r s t e a d f a s t c o m m i t m e n t t o c u s t o m e r s a t i s f a c t i o n O u r k n o w l e d g e a b l e s a l e s a n d s e r v i c e p r o f e s s i o n a l s , s u p p o r t e d b y d e c a d e s o f i n d u s t r y e x p e r t i s e , a r e d e d i c a t e d t o p r o v i d i n g a b e s t - i n - c l a s s e x p e r i e n c e a t e v e r y s t a g e o f y o u r j o u r n e y

TheVegucator

By Dawn Hilton-Williams

Culture, Chronic Illness and Charlotte’s Health Divide

In kitchens across Charlotte, whole food, plant-based (WFPB) meals built from herbs, whole grains, greens, legumes, fruits, nuts and seeds have always been more than a trend. They’ve served as tools of survival, celebration and restoration. Yet in today’s Charlotte, the very communities that birthed these food traditions are now the ones most cut off from them.

From the Beatties Ford Road corridor to Pine Valley and throughout, dozens of historically rich, culturally rooted neighborhoods, families are boxed in by fast food and blocked from easy access to the nourishing, plant-dominant foods that once sustained us. The result is a growing divide where lifestyle-driven chronic illness continues to disproportionately spread, while access to healing foods is pushed to the same end of the bus line where our rights were once told to wait.

Access is a story of roots and roadblocks

Scan the QR code above to view the recipe for Easy Vegan Jollof Rice by chef Dawn HiltonWilliams

Like many growing municipalities, Charlotte is a city of contrasts. In historically disinvested neighborhoods, families are three times more likely to live near fast food chains and discount stores than those in more affluent areas. Overlay that with public health data and the picture becomes clearer: Communities with the fewest fresh produce and whole food plant-based options face the highest rates of premature death, disability, and economic instability from Type 2 diabetes, kidney disease and hypertension.

This is why the term “food apartheid” has gained traction over the more commonly used, federally designated term “food desert.” It’s not just the loss of grocery stores and the rise of fast food; it’s the systemic segregation of access — a forced divide where entire communities are cut off from the basic human right to healing foods.

Places that once nurtured neighborhood grocery stores, retail shops, and communityowned businesses are now dominated by convenience stores and check-cashing outlets. Where local economies once thrived, predatory industries have built a highly profitable business model that feeds on our decline.

From Gullah/Geechee stews to Caribbean Ital-style Callaloo, our communities have long embraced food as medicine. For Black Charlotteans, early

food traditions remain a vital anchor, rooting us in who we are and where we come from.

While we can’t undo generations of food apartheid, disinvestment and chronic illness overnight, we can begin to reclaim what’s been taken through our daily choices. Here are three ways to start bridging Charlotte’s divide:

1 Start With One Meal

Change doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Begin with one meal rooted in what our ancestors knew could nourish and sustain. From smoky greens and sweet potatoes to Jollof rice and curried lentils, these are more than recipes, they’re healing on a plate.

2 Reconnect Through Local Resources

Even in neighborhoods shaped by food apartheid, there are still doors open to optimal wellness. Power is Giving offers free, physician-led EDD Talks Lunch & Learn programs at Allegra Westbrooks Regional Library at 2412 Beatties Ford Road, 5 times a year. Register free at powerisgiving.org.

3 Use Community-Based Food Access That Honors Us

In a city where access to fresh food still follows lines of race and income, local resources are helping close the gap. Mecklenburg County’s Mobile Market brings fresh produce once a month to eligible residents aged 55 and older, with distribution sites across Charlotte, such as CN Jenkins Church, Clinton Chapel and Weeping Willow AME Zion Church. For details, call 980-314-7788.

The Rosa Parks Farmers Market offers locally grown produce in a space designed with community in mind and accepts SNAP.

In a city still shaped by two sets of outcomes and two versions of access, every decision at the table is a chance to move differently. We can no longer afford to walk the same worn path, laid by systems that were never designed to keep us well.

The time is now to open our ancestral cabinet, shake the dust off the old map and choose a direction that not only restores us but refuses to leave a single one of us behind. P

Fondly dubbed the Vegucator, Dawn Hilton-Williams is a whole food, plant-based (WFPB) certified nutrition professional, a clinically-endorsed vegan chef, author and a wellness equity activist.

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Artist José G. Vázquez

He’s Inspired by Mexican Memories and American Visions

By Alicia Michele Benjamin

Flood

By José G. Vázquez

After the flood nothing remains intact

Her essence lives inside me now.

The waves of her hair

And the soft tide of her skin,

The ripples of her voice

Still bouncing in my ears.

The waters are receding ...

Nothing will be the same.

José G. Vázquez has lived in the United States for almost 30 years and during that time, he said he has visited most of the major cities in the country and some small towns in between. As a visual artist and poet, those American spaces have greatly influenced his work.

“From San Diego to Boston, Seattle to Miami, and any point in between, I’ve been there,” Vázquez said. He prefers to drive so that he can see all the small differences, sights and people that give him inspiration, he added.

In September, Vázquez will show a photography exhibit at the VAPA Center on North Tryon Street in Charlotte called “Past Tense” that will include photographs he’s taken as he’s traveled the country.

Visual artist and poet José G. Vázquez taught a Papalote (kite) workshop at the VAPA Center in May 2025. It’s a tradition he fondly remembers from his childhood in Mexico.

Photos courtesy of José G. Vázquez

During his travels, Vázquez said he intentionally avoided the interstate and intrastate highways. “I wanted to take the back roads, you know, the country roads,” he said. That’s how he found unusual, abandoned houses and decaying buildings that made such intriguing photographs.

“Like I’m driving, and I see something I feel attracted to.” He said the abandoned homes ignited his curiosity. “I wondered, ‘What was going on when that house was finished?’ You see, it’s been abandoned for maybe decades. It’s falling apart and trees are coming out of the windows,” he said.

“I cannot help but wonder when they put the last nail on that house, you know, and it was finished — how everything looked around it, what were the hopes and dreams the family that inhabited that house had, and where they are now,” Vázquez said.

“The old houses, old buildings, old downtowns, you know, pretty much are like ghost towns now. And I can’t help but stop and take a few photographs of those places,” he said. He also creates art using salvaged and found material. He said he believes “things, just like people, deserve a second chance.”

Vázquez’s work – poetry, photographs and mixed media art — has been shown at various outlets in the country including art galleries, universities,

Papalote (kite) making brings back fond memories of his childhood in Mexico.

In 2018, he published a book of photography and poetry called “Icaro Vuela de Noche” (Icarus Flies by Night), and he also wrote “Escondida: Poemas Breves Para Virginia” (Hidden: Brief Poems for Virgina), a book of poems written to an imaginary girlfriend named Virginia.

museums and public libraries. Locally, his work has been featured at the Mint Museum, the VAPA Center, Johnson C. Smith University, the Levine Museum and the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

He is a member of MAS + arte, a group he co-founded with artists from Venezuela, Colombia, Argentina and El Salvador to promote and support creative efforts of artists in the Charlotte area. He is also a member of the OBRA Collective, a group of Latino/Latina interdisciplinary artists that offer educational programs and exhibitions and support for Latinx artists.

In May 2025, Vázquez led a Papalote (kite) workshop at the VAPA Center for people of all ages. The youngest participant was 5 years old and the oldest was 75. “Traditional Papalote making is a cherished cultural practice in Mexico,” Vázquez said. It was a great opportunity to spend quality time with family while learning about cultural traditions and craftsmanship, he said. Items used to make the kite include paper, string, bamboo, plastic bags, scissors, tape or glue, and coloring materials like crayons or markers.

Vázquez said he teaches the workshop participants to make the kites the way he made them when he was six or seven years old. Papalote making brings back fond memories of his childhood in Mexico.

“You know, there was a big field across on the other side of the street where I grew up,” he said. “Yeah, and that was so cool. For me, it was amazing to build something and then see it in the sky, you know, flying up there. It was like, ‘Oh, I built that!’ That was incredible for me.” P

Top Right: José G. Vázquez teaching his Papalote workshop; Above: “La Muerte Mas Bella” by José G. Vázquez; Left: “Icaro Vuela Noche” is a book of photography and poetry by José G. Vázquez

Recent Study Highlights Most Diverse Cities

WalletHub ranks Charlotte in the Top 10 in 2025

By Sasha Manley

WalletHub, a personal finance company, recently completed an extensive diversity study to understand the racial demographics in the United States. In a WalletHub report published in February, the company found that the number of diverse populations in hundreds of U.S. cities is growing.

“The percentage of people in the U.S. who are multiracial increased from just 2.9% in 2010 to 10.2% in 2020,” the report said. WalletHub contends these ever-increasing numbers of representation could stomp out hate crimes that have plagued the country, according to the WalletHub study. Charlotte is ranked as the 7th most diverse city in 2025, the study reported. Gaithersburg, Md., has the number 1 spot.

What does the study say about how diversity helps to lower the hate crime rates? WalletHub Financial Analyst Chip Ludo explained: “The most diverse cities demonstrate diversity in many dimensions — not just in race and gender but also everything from residents’ languages and birthplaces to their job types and household sizes,” he said.

“These cities blend together a multitude of different perspectives, helping people to better understand the world around them and become more empathetic. This exchange of ideas also tends to increase the economic success of diverse cities,” Ludo added.

Using the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index method, the study reviewed 501 cities in five key areas: religious, socioeconomic, household, economic and cultural diversity. Each state was limited to 10 cities to rank.

The study also broke down diversity in other areas, such as occupation, marriage, worker class, age, industry and education levels.

Seeing Charlotte listed in the top 10 most diverse cities provides an excellent economic and growth perspective. As Ludo shared earlier, it helps us all better understand the world around us.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau Quick Facts from July 2024, the Queen City’s demographics are as follows: White alone 41.5%, Black alone 34.1 %, American Indian/Alaska Native 0.4%, Asian alone 6.4 %, Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander 0%, Two or more races 8.9%, and Hispanic/ Latino at 17.1%.

According to the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance, over 115 people are still moving to the city daily as of August 2024. While no report can give a solid answer to why the city has grown in popularity, Charlotte has lots to offer, with professional sports teams, banking capital, cultural attractions and new opportunities.

While diversity has its positives, some experts from WalletHub’s study chimed in with their thoughts on the downsides.

“Cities may be diverse but may also be residentially segregated. In other words, cities may be home to people from diverse

Here are the cities that made WalletHub’s top 20 most diverse cities in the U.S.:

1. Gaithersburg, Md.

2. Silver Spring, Md.

3. Germantown, Md.

4. Arlington, Texas

5. Houston, Texas

6. New York, N.Y.

7. Charlotte, N.C.

8. Jersey City, N.J.

9. Danbury, Conn.

10. Los Angeles, Calif.

11. Dallas, Texas

12. Orlando, Fla.

13. Bridgeport, Conn.

14. Tampa, Fla.

15. Chicago, Ill.

16. Rockville, Md.

17. Long Beach, Calif.

18. Nashville, Tenn.

19. Stamford, Conn.

20. Clifton, N.J.

backgrounds, but some groups may be segregated residentially,” said Dr. Lori Latrice Martin, associate dean in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences and professor in the Department of African and African American Studies at Louisiana State University.

Overall, according to the report, the benefits outweigh the cons, as long as residents understand that diversity is a key player. WalletHub states that being open is important. It said: “Economies generally fare better when they openly embrace and capitalize on new ideas. Conversely, those relying on old ways and specialized industries tend to be hurt more by changes in the market.” P

VAPA Center Renovations Bring Excitement and Flair to a Premier Artistic Hub

By Angela Haigler

The founding members of Charlotte’s Visual and Performing Arts Center (The VAPA Center) created the organization in 2021 as a hub of affordable spaces for artists in the city to create, practice, exhibit art and perform. The center also offers accessible art experiences for arts patrons and the public audience.

The VAPA Center took over the old Sears store turned Hal Marshall County Building in 2021. Using determination, tenacity and a love for the arts, the founders transformed the structure into a bustling arts community.

Renovations that began in October of last year have concluded and the space looks a lot less like a county facility and much more like a welcoming arts hub. Additional safety components have been added such as a dedicated outside air supply, an upgraded fire alarm system and improved exit signage.

Top: VAPA Center management, staff, artists and others at a VAPA anniversary celebration in April 2025; Middle: This fabric and paper assemblage titled “Shreds of Humanity” by artist Tina Alberni, was featured at The VAPA Center through June 6, 2025; Bottom: The VAPA Center underwent renovations starting in October 2024. In April 2025, the center celebrated its grand reopening.

Using determination, tenacity and a love for the arts, the founders transformed the structure into a bustling arts community.

The renovations have already led to positive changes for the organization, said Executive Director, Arthur Rogers Jr.

“We opened with about 140 artists in the building. Now, just three years later, we’ve completed a 1.7 million dollar change of use renovation funded by Mecklenburg

Photo courtesy of Michael Maxwell

Phototography

Photo by Mikel Frank

Night Market Open Studios where artists open their spaces and share their art with the community. For a full list of artists and the Night Market Open Studios schedule, visit www.vapacenter.com

There are new things happening all the time at the center, said Rogers. “Almost all the programming is initiated by our tenants. We want to give them the opportunity to start, foster and grow their businesses.”

County and over 500 artists have use of the space daily.”

Among other things, the renovations helped get the building from a business code rating to an assembly code rating on the first floor.

On a random night at the VAPA Center, visitors might find Charlotte’s Off-Broadway wrapping up an evening rehearsal for an up-and-coming local playwright like Brian Daye who presented “By Any Other Name: An Opus for James Baldwin” in June. You might see visual artists carting supplies to their studio to prepare for the next day’s work.

Walls are adorned with encouraging quotes, art photography and paintings — lots of paintings. The atmosphere is expectant, a little gritty and highly adventurous. The institutional feeling is gone. “We’re a fully functioning center now. We’ve got new carpeting and new paint. You wouldn’t recognize the building if you walked in,” said Rogers.

And who walks in? VAPA is home to artists such as founding members Charlotte Comedy Theater and Training Center, JazzArts Charlotte, The Light Factory, OBRA Collective, Nine Eighteen Nine Studio Gallery, Levine Museum of the New South, Charlotte’s Off Broadway and the Arts Empowerment Project. Other members include Dweh Brown, PJ Barnes, Nancy Sauser, Frank Ottens, Jessica Moseman and many more.

On the First and Second Saturday of every month, VAPA hosts Open Studios and

Rogers said the best way to know what members are doing is to follow their websites or subscribe to the VAPA newsletter. “We have some tenants that are doing photography workshops, some are doing poetry or drawing workshops, comedy workshops and the galleries have openings on a regular basis,” he said. Some membrs offer dance or music performances at night, he added.

Some long-term Charlotte residents have had their hearts broken as affordable artist support venues have become scarce, often through a lack of funding. VAPA remains viable by leasing the building from Mecklenburg County for $1 per year, and the county pays maintenance and utilities for the building. Operating costs are covered by in-kind gifts from Mecklenburg County, the rent that tenants pay and from local and statewide grants.

Rogers understands previously received grants are a bit scarcer these days. “Grants for the humanities have become diverted, dried up or rescinded,” said Rogers. VAPA is looking for donor funding. “Being three years old, we don’t have an established donor base yet, so we are looking for interested donors who want to help make an impact with the artists of the community.”

The good news for VAPA is that their lease has been extended by the county through the next five years, which means that maintenance and facilities costs will continue to be covered. The explosion of growth the organization has experienced since its inception seems to show that the community is hungry for a diversity of artistic experiences.

Joining the likes of The Blumenthal Theater, Carolina Theatre and the Charlotte Mecklenburg Public Library, the VAPA Center is building a name for itself as the northern end of Charlotte’s “Creative Mile.”

For more information about the VAPA Center including how to donate, join or otherwise participate, visit www.vapacenter.com P

Top: Renovations at The VAPA Center; Bottom: From left to right: Marisa J. Pascucci, Gallery and Collection Coordinator of the Van Every/Smith Galleries; curators Leigh Williams and Nancy Albert; artist Tina Alberni and Brad Lowry at The VAPA Center in May.

Photo by Mikel Frank

CHARLOTTE SHOUT!

Beyond the Skyline – Arts and Culture Fuel the Soul of Charlotte

By John Burton Jr.

Amid Charlotte’s towering skyscrapers and thriving financial sector, lies a vital and vibrant arts and culture scene. Museums and cultural attractions are not merely leisure activities, they have become the bedrock of this southern city, contributing significantly to the economy, enhancing the quality of life and fostering a strong sense of identity and connection, particularly within the Black community.

As the city continues to evolve, executing the Charlotte Arts and Culture Plan is paramount to its sustained prosperity. It also supports the well-being of all its residents.

The economic impact of Charlotte’s nonprofit arts and culture sector is substantial. A 2023 study revealed an impressive $453.8 million in economic activity for Charlotte-Mecklenburg in 2022. This figure includes $217.9 million in organizational spending and $235.9 million in event-related spending by patrons and audiences. This sector also supports more than 6,800 jobs and generates $81.4 million in government revenue annually.

A 2023 study revealed an impressive $453.8 million in economic activity for CharlotteMecklenburg in 2022.

Top: Harvey B. Gantt Center for AfricanAmerican Arts + Culture in Charlotte

Left: The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art

Furthermore, the attractions in this sector are significant drivers of tourism, with approximately 33% of attendees coming from outside Mecklenburg County, contributing to local businesses through spending on accommodation, dining and retail. The Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority’s report of a record-breaking $1.1 billion in economic impact from tourism in fiscal year 2024 underscores the critical role of cultural attractions in drawing visitors and bolstering the local economy.

Beyond the economic benefits, museums and cultural attractions are crucial for cultural enrichment and community building. They provide diverse experiences, educational opportunities and a space for dialogue and understanding. Institutions like the Mint Museum, with its two locations on Randolph Road and Uptown, have attracted more than 130,000 visitors each year and offer a broad spectrum of artistic expression. Discovery Place Science, which drew more than 828,000 visitors in 2024, ignites curiosity and fosters scientific literacy.

Discovery Place Science, which drew more than 828,000 visitors in 2024, ignites curiosity and fosters scientific literacy.

The Charlotte Museum of History preserves and interprets the region’s past, offering context for the present. The museum generated more than $1 million in revenue in 2023. Charlotte’s U.S. National Whitewater Center is located on 1,300 acres of land adjacent to the Catawba River and is the world’s largest man-made whitewater river. It offers more than 45 activities that include rafting, zip-lining, climbing and biking, attracting 1.4 million annual visitors and contributing $37 million to the economy in 2024.

For the Black community in Charlotte, cultural institutions and events hold profound significance. The Harvey B. Gantt Center for African American Arts + Culture stands as a vital hub, dedicated to celebrating and preserving the art, history and culture of African Americans. It not only showcases artistic excellence but also serves as a platform for discussions on social justice, equity and the ongoing contributions of the Black community to Charlotte and beyond.

The Charlotte Black Film Festival, in its 15th year, highlights Black filmmakers, while Jazz at the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art brings mid-century music to life. And the work of worldwide renowned artists are featured at the Bechtler throughout the year. The Queen City’s Black Legacy Walking Tour offers a deep dive into Charlotte’s African American

American history and celebrating Black culture and resilience. These events foster a sense of belonging and pride, reinforcing the importance of cultural representation. They also contribute to the local economy by attracting attendees and supporting Black-owned businesses and artists.

The Charlotte Arts and Culture Plan, developed by the City of Charlotte and partners across the country, recognizes the intrinsic value of arts and culture. Its vision is of “a community where all people value, support and thrive through arts, culture and creativity.” This plan emphasizes the need to eliminate barriers to access and to foster an inclusive and equitable cultural ecosystem. By supporting and investing in institutions and events that highlight the diverse cultural fabric of Charlotte, including its rich Black heritage, the city strengthens its social fabric and enhances the well-being of its residents.

Exposure to arts and culture has been linked to increased civic engagement and social cohesion. When individuals

history. Events like the African American Heritage Festival at the Charlotte Museum of History, which in 2025 focused on the “Black Country” experience in rural Mecklenburg County, actively work to preserve and share these vital stories.

Events like the Queen City Juneteenth Music & Food Festival and the Juneteenth Festival of the Carolinas, an annual multi-day event, are pivotal in commemorating a significant moment in

feel connected to their city’s cultural narrative, their sense of belonging and overall well-being are amplified.

The Charlotte arts community enriches the lives of residents and attracts visitors, bolstering the city’s reputation as a vibrant and dynamic southern destination. These institutions and events serve as vital spaces for celebration, community building and cultural preservation for the Black community. P

Above: Discovery Place Science Museum in Charlotte. Below: The U.S. National Whitewater Center in Charlotte

Heart Health Research

HeartShare Study Helps Discover Reasons for Heart Failure

By Rosanny Crumpton

Atrium Health Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute in Charlotte is one of just seven sites in the country participating in the HeartShare study. Funded by the National Institutes of Health, this innovative study aims to uncover why some people develop heart failure while others do not. Leading the study in the Charlotte region is Dr. Nicole B. Cyrille-Superville, a dedicated heart failure cardiologist with a deep passion for advancing care.

Top Right: Dr. Nicole Cyrille-Superville is performing cardiac auscultation (the process of placing a stethoscope on a person to listen to heart sounds) on HeartShare participant and Dr. Diane Holmes; Bottom Left: Hearth health research team meeting: Gina Brown (onscreen). From left to right around the table: Sangeetha Dinakaran, Heather Gaines, Dr. Nicole Cyrille-Superville, Carla Hatten and Zaida Roman

Cyrille-Superville treats a wide spectrum of heart failure patients in the Queen City, including those with a condition known as Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF). In HFpEF, the heart’s pumping function remains normal, yet patients still suffer from symptoms like fatigue, fluid buildup and decreased exercise capacity — consistent with heart failure. According to the National Institutes of Health, HFpEF accounts for at least 50% of all heart failure diagnoses. While its symptoms mirror other forms of heart failure, its risk factors are quite distinct.

“Given the condition is not fully understood, there is ongoing research to determine the root causes and therapies that may benefit patients the most.

“The

HeartShare study aims to help patients with HFpEF, which affects predominantly women and minorities and often underdiagnosed.”

—Dr. Nicole B. Cyrille-Superville

I believe that research allows me to harness my clinical experience and help patients on a broader level,” explained Cyrille-Superville.

Eager to contribute to this national effort, Cyrille-Superville seized the opportunity to collaborate with Dr. Dalane Kitzman, a pioneer in HFpEF research, at Wake Forest located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina — another HeartShare site.

Originally from the island of Dominica, Cyrille-Superville came to the United States through a scholarship recruitment program. She earned her medical degree and completed her residency at Columbia University’s College of Physicians and Surgeons. Her cardiology fellowship was completed at Montefiore Medical Center in New York, where she also served as chief cardiology fellow. She later specialized in advanced heart failure and transplant at Massachusetts General Hospital – Harvard Medical School.

Cyrille-Superville was drawn to cardiology by its dynamic nature and the ability to offer innovative therapies to patients, she said. During her fellowship, she experienced a pivotal moment while caring for a young mother in cardiogenic shock following childbirth. Using advanced heart pumps, the team stabilized the patient’s heart, allowing her to recover and return home with her newborn after several weeks in the hospital. This powerful and emotional experience solidified Cyrille-Superville’s decision to specialize in heart failure and transplant cardiology.

HeartShare is actively seeking a diverse range of volunteers — from those in excellent health to individuals living with heart failure or risk factors like obesity, high blood pressure or atrial fibrillation.

With humble beginnings and a strong support network guiding her journey, Cyrille-Superville is committed to giving back to the community through both care and research.

“The HeartShare study aims to help patients with HFpEF, which affects predominantly women and minorities and often underdiagnosed,” said CyrilleSuperville. These patients often have conditions such as hypertension, obesity and atrial fibrillation (irregular heart rhythm) and are on multiple medications for blood pressure, diuretics (water pill) or blood thinners,” she added. The study’s goal is to uncover different targets for treatment and better understand the root causes of HFpEF, she said.

HeartShare is actively seeking a diverse range of volunteers — from those in excellent health to individuals living with heart failure or risk factors

like obesity, high blood pressure or atrial fibrillation. Volunteers receive free, cutting-edge assessments, including echocardiograms, CT scans of the heart, lungs and abdomen, cardiac MRIs, exercise tests, physical exams, EKGs, pulmonary function tests and extensive blood work.

Participants will make two clinic visits on separate days from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. for testing. Compensation ranges from $500 to $750, and transportation can be arranged if needed. Beyond the two visits, the time commitment is minimal. Participants will be contacted again after one year for a follow-up check-in.

“This is truly an opportunity to make a difference for future patients,” said Cyrille-Superville. The potential impact of the HeartShare study is significant. By identifying the different causes and subtypes of HFpEF, the research team aims to develop more accurate treatments and preventive strategies.

Through her leadership, compassion and scientific dedication, CyrilleSuperville embodies the role of a physician-researcher committed to equity and excellence. With the HeartShare study, she is not only advancing the field of cardiology — she’s helping to shape its future for generations to come.

To participate in the HeartShare study, visit: beinvolved.atriumhealth.org/ studies/5/irb00094642 P

Above: Members of the Atrium Health Research team: Zaida Roman, Sangeetha Dinakaran, Dr. Cyrille-Superville, Heather Gaines and Dana Amaro; Top Right: Dr. Nicole CyrilleSuperville (third from left) with her husband Marvin, son Jaden and daughter Nailah

By Kurtavia Burton

Meet rising star Anna J, a captivating country music artist with charm and vibrant energy here in Charlotte. I spoke to Anna J during a short break for her live performance at Shep’s Bar and Grille in Mint Hill, North Carolina in May 2025.

Born in Frederick, Maryland, and raised for a time in Nashville, Tennessee, Anna J Stamato (stage name Anna J), proudly identifies as a “Maryland girl.” Having spent the last four years in Charlotte, she is observing the local landscape. “I love Charlotte and it’s such a burgeoning music city,” Anna J said.

Charlotte’s enthusiasm for country music resonates with Anna J, fueling her motivation and excitement. The demand for live music in the city presents a great opportunity for her growing career.

Anna J’s musical journey began when she started playing guitar in the fourth grade, sparking lifelong passion. Her artistic inspiration draws from influences

including Taylor Swift and her father’s cherished tunes, featuring legends like Randy Travis, Shania Twain and Alan Jackson.

A dream collaboration for Anna J would be to work with either Randy Travis or Taylor Swift, artists who have profoundly shaped her music foundation. Describing her sound, Anna J emphasizes her country music roots, writing, performing and connecting. She values the authenticity of real instruments, particularly the guitar and banjo, which are integral to her sound. She said her artistic vision aims to blend the nostalgic sounds of 90s country music with the raw energy of southern rock and the contemporary flair of artists like Taylor Swift and Ella Langley. Anna J plans to release new music this summer with the release of an anticipated single. Additionally, for the fourth consecutive year, her band will perform an acoustic concert at Lake Wylie, located near the North Carolina-South Carolina border, on the Fourth of July, a testament to her

growing local presence. Details for this event are forthcoming.

For Anna J, authenticity is vital. “The main thing about me is being myself and being authentic through my music. Same person on and off stage,” she said. Her songwriting is rooted in personal experience. “I write music from real experiences,” she said, offering a glimpse into the nature of her craft.

“Playing unlocks parts of yourself,” she said, highlighting the transformative power of music. Anna J expresses gratitude for her family’s unwavering love and support. As one of four siblings and with Italian heritage, Anna J’s family provides a strong foundation for her artistic pursuits.

As she continues to rise in the country music scene, Anna J’s genuine spirit and authentic sound are sure to captivate audiences both in Charlotte and beyond.

Use the QR code to connect with Anna J and follow her musical journey.  P

Photos by Greg Briley

Greg Jarrell: Advocating for Housing Equity Through Words and Music

By Loán C. Lake

Life changed for Charlotte community organizer Greg Jarrell the day he realized there were two Americas. This hard truth unfolded during his college years when he lived and worked in East St. Louis, Illinois at the urging of his mentor at Appalachian State University. Jarrell, who co-founded the Charlotte-based nonprofit QC Family Tree with his wife Jessica “Helms,” grew up in a small tobacco town outside of Raleigh.

“I was raised in a conservative, very white world, and East St. Louis was the very opposite of the world I grew up in,” he said. “It was shocking that a place that had been so over-extracted, exploited and quite frankly, looked so bombed-out, could exist in the United States, and yet, people were so remarkably hospitable towards me — a white guy occupying their space. I wanted to understand how their conditions came to be and why they were so welcoming towards me.”

This dichotomy of American life forced Jarrell to re-examine what he believed to be true about America and led the Appalachian

music major turned theologian to attend seminary in Richmond, Virginia. It also shaped his work as a community organizer and advocate. His world no longer made sense to him because he could not reconcile the impoverished setting he

State

Greg Jarrell (left), author and founder of the nonprofit QC Family Tree

witnessed in Illinois with the American dream that he had been fed for so long.

“We sought to unlearn racial biases by living in a diverse neighborhood and joining a Black church because my experiences revealed that I had not learned to see the world truthfully. That is the cost of whiteness — not being able to see the world truthfully,” Jarrell said.

In 2005, the Jarrells relocated to Charlotte’s Enderly Park neighborhood on Tuckasegee Road with the intention of immersing themselves in the heart of the Black community.

THE LONGEST TABLE

To address the disparities he saw, Jarrell and his wife launched their faith-based nonprofit, QC Family Tree, he said, to “inspire, enrich and embody community” in their ministry and common life. The organization also empowers residents and combats the effects of systemic racism and gentrification.

For the past 20 years, Jarrell said he and his team have provided a safe space for residents and advocates for resources to improve the quality of life for his neighbors. His work initially consisted of providing residents with meals and housing support, and now focuses more on organizing grassroots coalitions to influence housing policy and neighborhood development in the face of rapid gentrification.

Jarrell also blends his love of writing and music to impact housing and neighborhood justice issues. He is a co-leader of the jazz band Carolina Social Music Club and has authored two books — “Our Trespasses: White Churches and the Taking of American Neighborhoods,” published in 2024, which examines the role that First Baptist Church played in displacing the residents of Charlotte’s Brooklyn neighborhood during Urban Renewal, and “A Riff of Love: Notes on Community and Belonging,” published in 2018, which pays tribute to the culture of Enderly Park and the people who make up the QC Family Tree community.

“Our Trespasses” began as a research project following the conversations he had while on bicycle tours of the former Brooklyn neighborhood. Given his candor on issues of gentrification and housing inequality, Jarrell said he has faced

opposition from his white counterparts for his views, including having his work ignored. He remains unphased, however, and is more committed than ever to educating white residents who justify the effects of racial discrimination by highlighting the modern amenities they now enjoy in Charlotte, he said.

“I try to enrich people’s imaginations, to make them dissatisfied with nice, white Charlotte, and the genteel nature of our city,” he said. “In other words, how do we become really dissatisfied so that we can become part of a solution that works for all of our neighbors?”

Jarrell said his strategy for writing “Our Trespasses” was not to write an overview of Urban Renewal policy, but to tell the most detailed and particular story possible by placing extensive focus on one corner of Charlotte during that period, in hopes of gaining a better understanding of what was happening across the United States.

“I wanted to be able to show the evolution of one particular corner over the course of 150 years and how the changes in the geography had long term cultural and material effects on all the people who had lived or worked on that corner,” he said. “Through sermons, hymns and stories being told in the church newsletter, I tried to learn, as intimately as I could, about the lives of the Black families who had lived there and how this course of history had affected them and their descendants.”

Jarrell said he remains optimistic that he will impact the right people at the right time and plans to continue speaking, teaching, and preaching on place, race and faith. P

Op- Ed

By Kevin Loux, JD and Akofa Dossou, PhD

North Carolina’s prosperity depends on the global supply chains that create local jobs. According to a new analysis from the North Carolina Department of Commerce, statewide exports climbed to nearly $43 billion, led by pharmaceuticals, aerospace products and machinery. Imports surpassed $87 billion, driven by strong demand for medical supplies, computer equipment, and vehicles. This $44 million deficit shows how our fortunes rise and fall with the global economy, and even small shifts impact local jobs.

With tariffs imposed on China and a renewed push for reshoring, the U.S. must proactively prepare its workforce for jobs in both goods production and service-oriented manufacturing. Economists agree on the keys to a trade surplus nation: national saving rates, the dollar’s value, and the industries we specialize in. In each of these areas, the United States is at a disadvantage for exports.

According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, our net national saving rate has hovered below 5% in recent years, far below the 10%+ rates seen in surplus countries like Germany and Japan. That gap means we rely on foreign capital to fund domestic

You Can’t Reshore Jobs Without People The workforce deficit behind the trade deficit

investment, which keeps the dollar strong and makes our exports more expensive abroad. While measures such as Quantitative Easing could weaken the dollar and help exports, the Federal Reserve’s focus on curbing inflation has instead driven up interest rates, reinforcing the currency’s strength and, in turn, our dependence on imports.

Meanwhile, America’s economy has tilted toward services and consumption, unlike surplus-running nations like South Korea, Germany and the Netherlands. If a trade deficit endangers the nation, so does a population living paycheck to paycheck. Individual financial security is tantamount to national security. While trade policies may reduce reliance on foreign supply chains, they also risk exposing a domestic workforce that is unprepared. Goods-related employment has historically been offset by growth in services. However, these two areas are inextricably interconnected. Automation, quality control, design and maintenance are all service-based functions tied to physical production. To fix the trade deficit, we must first fix the workforce deficit through real investment in people.

Investing in workforce development necessitates an investment in training,

but training alone is not sufficient. We’ve seen firsthand how essential advisors, wraparound services, and practical resources can be. This isn’t just hypothetical, one of our participants was highly skilled with a degree, and skill needed our services for additional training and employment assistance. Years later they needed our

Economists agree on the keys to a trade surplus nation: national saving rates, the dollar’s value and the industries we specialize in. In each of these areas, the United States is at a disadvantage for exports.

services again to get another training and employment assistance that finally set them on the path to realizing their full potential.

To rebuild a strong workforce, we must not only teach new skills but remove the real obstacles that block success including broken cars, unstable housing, unaffordable childcare, and crushing debt. Teaching new skills cannot fix these problems. A job cannot dig someone out of a financial hole overnight. The hole only deepens while they wait three weeks for their first paycheck. Without direct support, even the best training programs will fail to meaningfully build our workforce. Investment in both skills and life stability are essential if we want to rebuild our workforce.

Creating higher-wage employment opportunities for those currently living paycheck to paycheck is essential to generate the kind of national savings rate that underpins a trade surplus. The challenge is that many of the jobs that are easiest to bring back are also the lowest-paying leading to the least savings. This tension echoes the Federal Reserve’s dual mandate of maximizing employment while maintaining stable prices. Becoming an economy that runs a trade surplus is its own dual mandate to increase production while raising wages and productivity so people can build the savings needed to sustain the surplus.

The pain of inflation is not a footnote to trade or national security. The cost of living is the driving factor of the workforce. People do not live to work; they work to live. If we ignore the daily realities workers face, we will fail both job seekers and employers. Rising costs of living and corporate pullbacks have made these challenges harder. Without higher wages, any attempt at reshoring risks creating a workforce trapped in economic precarity, perpetuating cycles of instability and turnover. P

Kevin Loux, JD, is Chief Impact Officer for Charlotte’s Workforce Development Board.

Akofa Dossou is a senior economist and data strategist.

About Charlotte Works

Charlotte Works and local workforce boards are essential in bridging the divide between job seekers and employers by offering customized training, targeted support, and direct employment pathways at no cost to businesses. We are leading the innovation needed in workforce development by solidifying direct partnerships with employers and facilitating the necessary investment in individuals that extends beyond training. Rebuilding American industry starts with rebuilding the workforce. A highly skilled workforce earning living wages will not only reduce our trade deficit, but also lead to a stronger, more resilient economy and a more secure nation.

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To find out more, join us for a private tour and explore a community of modern, stylish senior living.

Discovering Tai Chi A Path to Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

By Angel Brown

Have you ever heard the phrase, “meditation in motion”? That is one of many ways people describe tai-chi — a gentle, low-impact mind-body practice with roots in ancient China. It’s also been called “medicine in motion” because of the way it promotes balance, flexibility and inner calm, making it an ideal wellness activity for people of all ages and fitness levels.

Since the onset of the covid pandemic, many of us have placed a renewed focus on our health and wellbeing, exploring activities that align with both our physical and emotional goals. Tai chi offers a holistic approach, benefiting not only the body but also nurturing the mind and spirit.

Dr. Paul Lam, founder of the Tai Chi for Health Institute, is living proof that tai chi works. Diagnosed with osteoarthritis as a teenager, he turned to tai chi to manage his symptoms and now teaches others how it supports chronic condition management and overall wellness.

In this article, we’ll explore what tai chi is, the health benefits it offers, its various styles, and where you can experience it for yourself right here in the local Charlotte area.

The health benefits of Tai Chi

Tai chi is more than just a slow, graceful movement — it’s a practice rooted in balance, breath and mindfulness. Research has shown that tai chi offers a wide range of health benefits, making it especially appealing for individuals seeking a gentle yet effective form of exercise.

moment awareness, which can lower stress levels and help quiet the mind. Many practitioners report feeling calmer and more focused after regular practice.

3 Supports Heart Health

Studies have shown that tai chi may help lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health by reducing stress and promoting physical activity without placing strain on the joints.

4 Eases Chronic Pain

Tai chi has been used to manage chronic conditions such as arthritis,

Research has shown that tai chi offers a wide range of health benefits, making it especially appealing for individuals seeking a gentle yet effective form of exercise.

1 Improves Balance and Flexibility

Tai chi enhances coordination and stability by focusing on controlled movements and posture. This makes it especially helpful for older adults, reducing the risk of falls and improving overall mobility.

2 Reduces Stress and Anxiety

The meditative aspects of tai chi encourage deep breathing and present

fibromyalgia and back pain. Its gentle motions improve circulation and flexibility, providing relief without aggravating symptoms.

5 Boosts Mental Clarity and Mood

Regular tai chi practice has been linked to better sleep, improved mood and enhanced cognitive function. It engages both the mind and body, helping to sharpen focus and encourage emotional resilience.

Exploring the different styles of tai chi

While all tai chi styles share core principles, there are subtle differences:

• Yang Style is the most popular, known for its flowing movements and gentle pace — perfect for beginners.

• Chen Style blends soft, slow motions with bursts of power, offering a more physically dynamic experience.

• Wu Style emphasizes smaller, compact movements, often used in rehabilitation or gentle practice.

• Sun Style is light and agile, incorporating qigong elements and suitable for individuals with joint issues.

• Qigong focuses on slow, meditative movements and breath control to cultivate internal energy (qi). While not a tai chi style, it is often practiced alongside tai chi to promote healing, reduce stress and enhance overall well-being. No matter the style, tai chi encourages harmony between body and mind. Whether you’re seeking stress relief, improved balance or a new way to stay active, there’s a style for you.

Where to practice tai chi in Charlotte

Charlotte is home to a variety of tai chi options, welcoming all skill levels:

• River Flow Holistic 8822 Kirchenbaum Drive, Charlotte Classes offered Monday through Friday, with private sessions available for all levels

• Suuz Moves

3401 Saint Vardell Lane Suite E, Charlotte

Offering classes every day of the week, including Zoom and one-onone options

• Thrive Yoga and Fitness

Multiple Charlotte locations Focused on older adults, Thrive offers weekday classes tailored to your pace and comfort

• Thundering Wave

5706 Wyalong Drive, Suite G, Matthews, N.C.

Classes available seven days a week for all experience levels P

Lena Lumelsky’s Web Design Business Is Rooted in Balance

By Anders J. Hare

For Lena Lumelsky, the journey from Soviet refugee to Charlotte-based entrepreneur has been marked by grit, reinvention and a deep commitment to work-life balance — long before the concept became mainstream. As the founder of Woland Web, a web design and development firm, Lumelsky didn’t just build a business — she built a lifestyle, one that prioritizes flexibility, intentionality and the realities of American life.

Born in the former Soviet Union, Lumelsky immigrated to the United States as a teenager, eventually earning both undergraduate and graduate degrees in computer science from the University of Michigan. Her early professional years were spent scaling the ranks on Wall Street, working as a programmer and eventually vice president in the technology divisions at Goldman Sachs, Deutsche Bank and Merrill Lynch. But everything changed in September 2001.

“I was on maternity leave with my first daughter when 9/11 happened,”

“I was on maternity leave with my first daughter when 9/11 happened. We lived in New York City, and Merrill Lynch was right across from the World Trade Center. It was terrifying, and I couldn’t imagine going back to work not knowing what would happen next.”

—Lena Lumelsky, founder and CEO of Woland Web

Lumelsky said. “We lived in New York City, and Merrill Lynch was right across from the World Trade Center. It was terrifying, and I couldn’t imagine going back to work not knowing what would happen next.”

That life-altering moment led her to accept a job opportunity in London, where she lived for three years and welcomed her second daughter. Lumelsky now lives with her husband and three daughters in Charlotte. When she moved to Charlotte in 2005, she said she yearned to reenter the workforce — but on her own terms.

Woland Web was born in her living room in October that year — a time when remote work was far from the norm. “I wanted to work from home, and that just wasn’t a thing back then,” she said. “So I created it for myself.”

What began as a solo operation quickly grew into a team of 10, a collective of designers and developers spread across the country. Her first hire, a graphic designer, remains with the company today as its creative director. Together, they’ve built a culture that

prioritizes results over rigid schedules, making room for family obligations, personal growth and mental wellness.

“We still work hard — we just work when it’s convenient for us,” Lumelsky said. “Some team members break up their day to accommodate school dropoffs or take evening shifts to better align with their lifestyles. What matters most is that the work gets done well.”

That philosophy is reflected in Woland Web’s six core values: intention, details, get it done, learn and grow, positivity and balance. “Balance,” she emphasized, “is not just a buzzword. It’s how we’ve built a business that works for real people.”

Her leadership style is shaped by her own lived experience as a mother of three and a woman in tech. In the early years, Lumelsky juggled late nights and early mornings while raising toddlers, growing her company one project at a time. “The early years were not models of work-life balance for me,” she said. “But I made sure my team had it.”

Today, that team includes professionals across the U.S., many of them, women who needed or preferred

the flexibility to work from home. Long before Zoom calls and Slack channels became standard, Lumelsky was setting up remote systems to accommodate a distributed workforce. That pioneering approach has led to remarkably low turnover and a tight-knit company culture. Lumelsky said the pivot from Wall Street to entrepreneurship was a natural evolution.

“I had built systems, led teams, managed budgets. I thought that prepared me for running a business,” she said. “And in some ways, it did. But it was still a learning curve.”

To sharpen her entrepreneurial toolkit, she joined the Entreprenuers’ Organization (EO) Accelerator in Charlotte and later completed Goldman Sachs’ 10,000 Small Businesses program. Both experiences underscored the importance of four key business pillars: people, cash, strategy and execution. But Lumelsky would add a few more — mentorship, community and strategic partnerships. “Being an entrepreneur can be a lonely road,” she said. “Having a network of like-minded business owners is invaluable.”

Long before Zoom calls and Slack channels became standard, Lumelsky was setting up remote systems to accommodate a distributed workforce. That pioneering approach has led to remarkably low turnover and a tight-knit company culture.

Nearly two decades into her journey, Lumelsky said she’s proud of the company she’s built, not just for its creative output, but for the environment it fosters. “We’ve proven that you can run a successful, client-focused business while making space for life outside of work,” she said. “That’s always been the goal.”

From a Wall Street skyscraper to a home office in Charlotte, Lena Lumelsky has redefined what success looks like — on her own terms. P

Lena Lumelsky (second from left) with her family

Economic Development Organization Strengthens Small Business Owners

By Angela Lindsay

The National Institute of Minority Economic Development (NIMED) broke ground on its Charlotte headquarters on April 17 of this year and, in doing so, closed the loop on a mission which began nearly 50 years ago. In the 1970s, Edmond Johnson, an African American attorney, constructed the building located at 916 West 5th Street with the purpose of creating a hub for minority businesses. Today, NIMED’s goal is to serve as a regional powerhouse for economic empowerment, including incubating small minority and women-owned businesses, as well as supporting an affordable housing organization — bringing Johnson’s original vision into sharper focus.

“NIMED focuses on economic mobility and building wealth of low-wealth individuals, minorities and women,” explained Kevin J. Price, President and CEO of NIMED. “According to the updated Chetty Study, Charlotte has moved up from 50th out of 50 to 38th, which is a great improvement, but also indicates that more can be done. NIMED wants to be a part of

the solution. We have the resources and services to do so.” The “Chetty Study” refers to research led by Raj Chetty at Harvard University that examined the economic mobility of children born into poverty across various U.S. metropolitan areas.

The organization’s mission is to strengthen the asset base of diverse populations through policy, education and economic opportunities. To do that, NIMED provides technical assistance, capacity building, capital and corporate connections

Left: Signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between NIMED and the Urban League of Central Carolinas (ULCC). Left to right: Robyn Lake Hamilton, President and CEO of ULCC and Kevin J. Price, NIMED President and CEO; Below: Ron Leeper (left), founder of R.J. Leeper Construction and Keith Haywood, president of FDY, Inc. at the grand opening of NIMED’S new Charlotte headquarters; Bottom: NIMED staff and volunteers at the annual Executive Networking Conference

to over 6,000 diverse businesses, government organizations, HBCUs and nonprofit organizations, “allowing them to grow, thrive, create jobs, and become sustainable and valued partners within their local communities,” Price said.

Economic development advocate Dr. Andrea L. Harris founded NIMED in 1986. The organization, headquartered in Durham, North Carolina, is fueled by grants from the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation and N.C. Association of Minority Businesses. At that

time, business, government, and community leaders recognized that globalization, changing demographics and technology were changing the game — replacing traditional industries and markets with new ones that required different skills and strategies for business success, said Price. Engaging significant untapped segments of the population — racial minorities, women,

people with disabilities, rural residents and others — became a business and economic imperative.

The organization operates two centers: The Center for Entrepreneurship, which provides technical assistance to small businesses and key stakeholders to grow and sustain a robust small business ecosystem; and The Center for Strategic

Bridging business through strategic partnerships

Partnerships, which provides consulting services that support corporations, public agencies and community organizations in engaging more effectively to foster an equitable economic ecosystem.

NIMED also serves as the parent to two affiliate organizations. One, the Institute Capital (ICAP), strives to stimulate and encourage community and economic development activities that benefit low to moderate-income communities and individuals; provide financing for community development (including affordable housing, commercial real estate, small businesses, and community facilities); expand economic opportunity; improve the quality of life; and empower low-wealth communities. ICAP is a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) with a footprint that includes North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Kentucky, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, Southern Maryland and the Washington, D.C. Metro area. By 2020, ICAP (legacy NCCDI) had documented over $1 billion in impact on low-income communities.

The other, the Institute Community Development Initiative (ICDI), is a community development corporation that acts as an intermediary to other mature community development corporations.

Rocio Gonzalez (left), Executive Director of Women’s Business Center of Charlotte (WBCC); Evan Norconk, Assistant Vice President and Banking Center Manager at Bank OZK; and Sheila Obregon, Program Director of WBCC at the NIMED Charlotte headquarters during the grand opening ceremony

ICDIs mission is to stimulate and encourage community and economic development activities that benefit low to moderatewealth communities. It provides community development centers (CDC) with capacity building, operating support and financial resources to facilitate the mission. ICDI can directly promote affordable housing development and/or community economic development services in communities without a CDC.

Over the past five years, NIMED has expanded into seven states and tripled in size. The state-of-the-art facility in Charlotte houses NIMED’s key affiliate, Institute Capital, a mission-driven CDFI; the Women’s Business Center of Charlotte, providing training and support to diverse entrepreneurs; and the Center for Strategic Partnerships, identifying opportunities and developing collaborations to accelerate small business growth. Notably — and aligned with its core values — 75% of the renovation work was completed by minorityowned firms.

This institute is of particular benefit to the city of Charlotte. NIMED has already been serving the Charlotte region for nearly 10 years, with ICAP serving Charlotte for decades. Via the Women’s Business Center of Charlotte, led by Rocio Gonzalez, NIMED

SHCU_Pride AD_FA.pdf 1 4/12/2023 2:58:29 PM

Charlotte City Council Member LaWana Mayfield; Kevin J.

& CEO of NIMED; Robyn Lake Hamilton, President & CEO of Urban League of Central

Roberta McCullough, Sr. Vice President & COO of Institute Capital; Michael Suggs, President of Goler CDC

supports hundreds of minority and womenowned businesses in the Charlotte market each year.

ICAP provides capital in Charlotte and statewide to minority, womenowned businesses and companies building affordable housing. With its new Charlotte location, the aim is to serve as a hub providing equitable economic and community development resources to empower the Charlotte region.

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“The importance of opening our latest building in Charlotte coincides with our latest subsidiary, Institute Community Development Initiative, which will provide financial resources and technical assistance to affordable housing providers across the state,” said Price. “The Charlotte building will be the training center for these community economic development (CED) activities. This puts Charlotte in the middle of CED best practices.” P

Three-time Self-Help borrower Sugar Creek Charter School, a high-performing public charter school in Charlotte that outperforms both district and state averages for Black and economically disadvantaged student groups.

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Sugar Creek Charter School

Ribbon cutting at grand opening of NIMED’s new Charlotte headquarters on 5th Street. Left to right: Charlotte Mayor Pro Tem Danté Anderson; Rev. Dr. Clifford A. Jones, Sr.; Charlotte City Councilman James Mitchell;

Price, President

Carolinas;

Gotcha Matcha Offers a Taste of Thailand in Charlotte

By Kurtavia Burton

In the heart of Uptown Charlotte, a unique café is mixing up more than just lattes. Eric Hicklen Jr., owner of Gotcha Matcha & Espresso, is redefining the local beverage scene with his original crafted matcha creations. Hicklen’s journey to opening his own coffee shop was far from a straight shot — a testament to his unwavering vision and determination. His seed of inspiration was planted during a family trip to Thailand in 2019. It was there on his trip, immersed in the rich culture, Eric enjoyed a Belgian waffle matcha that left a lasting impression. He vividly remembers the experience,

Top: Eric Hicklen, owner of Gotcha Matcha & Espresso; Bottom: Big Seated Buddha Statue (Buddha Dhammakaya Dhepmongkol) is a famous statue in Bangkok, Thailand. Hicklen was inspired to open a coffee shop that offers matcha drinks and desserts after visiting Thailand.

Photos courtesy of Eric Hicklen and cowardlion \ Shutterstock.com

emphasizing the presentation — a detail that resonates in the matcha beverages and desserts offered at Gotcha Matcha today.

Upon returning to the United States, Hicklen said he realized he needed practical barista experience, so he started working at Starbucks to groom his barista skills. It was during this period that the vision for his own establishment began to solidify. The name, logo and even 3D cup mockups took shape emphasizing his coffee shop dream. “You gotta see it to believe it,” Hicklen said.

He took another spontaneous trip in 2019, this time to Seattle. A visit

to a local matcha shop reignited his entrepreneurial fire, reinforcing his long-held aspiration. For nearly four years, the dream of opening his own space had been brewing. His barista experience, though cut short to about five months due to the onset of the covid pandemic, provided him with a strong foundation. Even during the feelings of uncertainty he experienced during the pandemic, his vision remained clear.

Initially, a friend suggested the Hicklen open his shop through her winery. He said he thought, “If I’m ever going to do it, it’s got to be now.” Gotcha Matcha officially opened

its doors in September 2023. The first opening of the business, which lasted until December 2023, proved to be a helpful testing ground. Social media was a powerful ally for Gotcha Matcha during this time, bringing early awareness and excitement. Following this 90-day period, Gotcha Matcha transitioned to a temporary coworking space from March to August 2024.

This move paved the way for another opportunity — the negotiation and securing of the current Uptown location for the coffee shop on South Tryon Street. All this has occurred for Gotcha Matcha in less than a year, from the initial launch through the present. “It doesn’t always take long. You have to hit the ground running and everything can happen quickly,” said Hicklen.

“My goal is to be the best of Matcha.”

—Eric Hicklen, owner of Gotcha Matcha

Now, at the Uptown shop, Gotcha Matcha has a loyal following –customers who are drawn to the shop’s unique offerings and Hicklen’s infectious passion, Hicklen said.

Customer favorites like “The Panda,” a nutty-flavored sensation, and the refreshing strawberry matchiato, a twist on the classic macchiato with organic strawberries, exemplifies the creativity infused into every item on the everexpanding menu.

What sets Gotcha Matcha apart is its commitment to originality and quality, said Hicklen. “My goal is to be the best of matcha,” he said. Every beverage is crafted from scratch with no replications. As for foundation, he stated the standard milk offering is oat milk, with a variety of other non-dairy options like macadamia, soy, almond,and coconut milk readily available alongside traditional dairy. Customers also appreciate the option of having their matcha beverages, sugarfree or unsweetened.

Beyond just matcha, a ceremonial green tea, Eric lauded how great matcha is for its health benefits, such as “100x the antioxidants of regular

A customer enjoying a Gotcha Matcha beverage

Photo courtesy of Eric Hicklen

Eric lauded how great matcha is for its health benefits, such as “100x the antioxidants of regular green tea,” which helps lower high blood pressure and provides a jitter-free caffeine source. Matcha also contains an anxiety-combating amino acid; and it’s also a superfood.

Quality, affordable housing is a key element to a strong and secure Charlotte.

TD Bank recently worked with DreamKey Partners to fund construction of Aveline at LaSalle, an affordable community of high-quality, for-sale townhomes for all who want to live and work in Charlotte. Located in Charlotte’s historic Lincoln Heights neighborhood, the development comprises 26 townhomes situated on land donated by the City of Charlotte. All homes will be 100% affordable and reserved for households earning up to 80% of the area median income (AMI), with long-term affordability preserved through a recorded covenant.

We can help your business—talk to us today.

Sheldon Osborne VP, Senior Commercial Relationship Manger Sheldon.Osborne@td.com

green tea,” which helps lower high blood pressure and provides a jitterfree caffeine source. Matcha also contains an anxiety-combating amino acid; and it’s also a superfood, Eric said. “If you don’t like matcha, you should learn to like matcha.”

Gotcha Matcha cultivates connection and personalization, Hicklen said. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the menu reflects an intentional approach to what is shared, emphasizing customer appreciation and support, he added.

Hicklen is currently in the final stages of securing a second Gotcha Matcha location in Charlotte, slated to open this summer, he said. Gotcha Matcha is a dream coming to fruition, he added. Gotcha Matcha is open Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and can be found on all major social media platforms as Gotcha Matcha CLT. Matcha bags are also available for purchase at the shop, giving customers a chance to bring a piece of the Gotcha Matcha experience home. P

for the construction of Aveline at Lasalle Development

Afro-Latinos Discuss Their Unique Cultural Experiences in Charlotte

By Charles K. Harris

According to the 2020 census, some 43 million U.S. residents identified as ‘Hispanic’ or ‘Latino’ which accounts for about 18.7% of the total U.S. population. Making them the largest minority group in the country.

Hispanic can refer to anyone with origins in a Spanish speaking country. However, Latino refers specifically to someone with roots in Latin America, the Caribbean, Central or South America. Afro-Latino refers to someone who has both Sub-Saharan African and Latin American ancestry.

However, determining who belongs to this group is rather complicated. The term ‘Afro-Latino’ is seldom used outside

Afro-Latino refers to someone who has both Sub-Saharan African and Latin American ancestry.

the United States. Descriptors based on race, color and ethnicity vary greatly across Latin America. Additionally, long standing prejudices about skin color are rampant in many of these same countries.

Despite the absence of a white majority in most Latin American countries for over a century, many still subscribe to the notion that dark skin, African features and kinky hair are unattractive and undesirable. While geneticists estimate the majority of

Afro Cuban women who are canasteras (women who sell goods, typically fruits and vegetables), with habano flowers and traditional attire in Havana, Cuba.

Emily Flores, Human Resources/ Benefits Professional

Hiram Montalvo, Senior Business Analytics Consultant

Sharon Yakubu, Business Owner

Latin America’s approximately 6.7 million residents have at least some African ancestry, many refuse to be identified as such.

Still, the footprint left by African slaves, predominantly from West Africa, is apparent in the customs, foods, music and religion across the area. A staggering 95% of all Africans transported during the Atlantic Slave Trade were placed in labor in Latin, Central and South America.

Specifying one’s ethnic background often becomes even more muddied once entered into the antiquated and patently racist color hierarchy in the United States.

“People would ask, “What are you?” or act confused when I said I was Latino but didn’t look or sound how they expected,” said Hiram Montalvo, the son of Dominican and Puerto Rican immigrants. “I didn’t match the traditional American categories of Black or white. It was hard feeling like I didn’t fully fit into any one group.”

Charlotte City Council member for District 5, Majorie Molina, who was married to a Latino man and is the mother of two Afro-Latino children, has worked to embrace and promote the culture for many years.

“I can only speak from the periphery here. I’ve observed how invisibility often becomes the most significant challenge,” said Molina. “The U.S. framework tends to flatten Latino identity into a single category. Many Afro-Latinos contend with erasure both within broader Latino communities and within Black spaces.”

Emily Flores, whose parents are part of the Garifuna people, an ethnic group in Honduras that have African and indigenous Honduran ancestors, faced similar challenges.

“Fitting in as children is a challenge. Black kids see you as different. Latino kids see you as different. This leads to children rejecting their culture to conform and be accepted,” Flores said.

Garifuna are an ethnic group descended from West Africans and Arawak Indians that originally populated the island of Saint Vincent but eventually spread to several nearby countries. Flores, a Senior Benefits Analyst at Honeywell, explained that her own experience influenced

her choice to instill great cultural appreciation in her own children.

“It was important for me to teach them about their Garifuna side and take them to Honduras as often as I could. This resulted in them being pretty self-assured in school,” she said. “And they’ve embraced their Garifuna roots.”

“I’ve observed how invisibility often becomes the most significant challenge. The U.S. framework tends to flatten Latino identity into a single category. Many Afro-Latinos contend with erasure both within broader Latino communities and within Black spaces.”

—Majorie Molina

Marjorie Molina, Charlotte City Council member, District 5

BY THE NUMBERS

43 million

U.S. residents identified as ‘Hispanic’ or ‘Latino’ which accounts for about 18.7% of the total U.S. population. Making them the largest minority group in the country.

More than 5 million

of U.S. small business owners in 2023 identified as Latino. Combined, these same businesses generated

$800 billion in revenue that same year.

Montalvo, a senior Business Analytics Consultant in the finance industry and a father of two, said, like Flores, he’s committed to preserving their heritage. “[My childhood] experience taught me to appreciate the richness of my culture while showing

me the necessity of maintaining cultural connections,” he said.

The struggle for a place continues beyond the schoolyard, however.

“Straddling two societies and never fitting 100% in either (is a challenge),” said Sharon Yakubu, who is from Panama and has lived in Charlotte for 20 years. Yakubu, an agent with Equity NC Real Estate and owner of ZAKTRA, a nonemergency medical transport company, addresses a significant challenge facing Afro-Latino representation.

“I have not found a specific group for Afro-Latino business owners, and in Hispanic spaces, I don’t notice a sizable representation of Afro-Latino entrepreneurs,” she said.

Montvalo agreed. “Afro-Latinos face significant underrepresentation when it comes to leadership roles in business organizations. The community faces additional work to achieve full inclusion and representation throughout all sectors of society despite increasing advocacy efforts,” he said.

President/Owner

Flores echoed the same sentiment. When asked if she felt Charlotte area Afro-Latinos received appropriate representation across civic, political and business sectors, her answer was blunt: “Definitely not!”

A Forbes Magazine article from last year reported that more than 5 million of U.S. small business owners in 2023 identified as Latino. Combined, these same businesses generated $800 billion in revenue that same year.

“The entrepreneurial spirit is a driving force for immigrants,” said Yakuba. This indicates that if the Latino population progression is correct, in just over a decade Latino business owners and Latino consumers will make an indelible mark on the U.S. economy.

But the value of the Afro-Latino community goes beyond dollars and cents. “My background is a mix and that’s what makes it special,” Montvalo said. “Being in-between cultures is a strength.”

“Their stories reveal the complexity of heritage, migration, color and culture,” said Molina. “That complexity, if respected, becomes a gift to the civic and cultural life of this city.”  P

Minority and Womenowned 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

NC 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/hub

Corporate Supplier Diversity

Advocate Health Supply Chain Alliance www.advocatehealthsupplychainalliance.org

Balfour Beatty Construction

Chad Humphrey Business Development Director 919-233-5137 chumphrey@balfourbeattyus.com 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/ diversity/diverse-suppliers

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 704-708-4470 www.gls.com

Advertising Agencies/ Promotional Products

AC&M Group www.acmconnect.com

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

BluePepper Public Relations 704-625-6564 www.bluepepperpr.com

Brand Equity Marketing, LLC 704-372-3982 www.brandequitymktg.com

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

BRK Global Marketing 704-579-1545 brkmarketing.com

Bullseye Branding and Promotions 704-366-1616 www.bullseyebp.com

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

Classic Achievements, Inc. 980-819-9176

www.classicachievements.com

Creative Marketing Ideas 980-938-8555 www.creativemkg.com

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

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

Jaunt www.ridejaunt.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

Lyerly Agency 704-525-3937 www.lyerly.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

PIApromo 704-593-1256 www.piapromo.com

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

QCityMetro.com www.qcitymetro.com

Robinson Thinks www.robinsonthinks.com

S&B Computers and Office Products, Inc. 518-877-9500 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

Zuri Creative Services www.zuricreative.com

Architects

CES Group 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

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 Group 704-289-3250 www.collinsfamilylaw.com

DeMayo Law Offices, LLP 866-316-5104 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 Susan D. Brotherton 704-873-7529

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

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

Mickle & Bass Law Firm 803-980-0083 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 Starrett Law Firm, PLLC 704-887-4944 www.starrettlawfirm.com

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

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

The Law Office of Cheryl R. Watkins 704-727-8451 www.crwatkinslaw.com

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

The Law Office of Tamela T. Wallace 704-371-4212 www.tamelatwallace.com

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

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

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

The Wright Law Firm 704-332-2274

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 www.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.facebook.com/ CharlotteBookRack

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 980-285-7146 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

Allegra Marketing, Print, and Mail 704-376-0938 www.allegracharlotte.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

Creech Computer Consulting, Inc. 704-827-5979 www.creechcomputers.com

Experienced Recruiting Partners LLC 518-598-6300 www.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

“ You don’t make progress by standing on the sidelines.”

–

MPG Consulting Services LLC

704-659-6767 www.mpgcs.com

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

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 www.alliancedentalgroupnc.com

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

704-662-6880 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 Dental 704-335-8266 www.southendpremierdental.com

Steven H. Ghim, DMD 704-935-2700 www.drstevenghim.com

University Pediatric Dentistry 704-688-1664 www.universitypediatricdentistrync.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. 866-257-7882 www.jenkinselectric.com

Jim Dickerson Co. 980-480-8716 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. 704-947-5151 www.watsonelectric.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 www.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

“ My biggest advice? Dream big, then double it.”

— Daymond John

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 704-557-9786

www.jandglegacy.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

The Real Money Coach www.therealmoneycoach.com

Tucker Boynton Financial Group 704-366-5085 www.tbfinancial.com

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

Fitness/Wellness

Adrenaline Charlotte 704-516-4129 www.adrenalineclt.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

Pranayama House 980-704-5478 www.lovethroughlotus. com/pranayamahouse

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 Tara 704-492-3791 cateringbytara.com

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

Essie’s Catering 803-329-2228 www.essiescatering.com

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

Frozen Kups 980-258-0226 www.frozenkups.com

Howard & Howard Event Management and Catering 980-349-5750 www.howardandhowardevents.com

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

Manolos Bakery 704-568-2120 www.manolosbakery.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/ Zippy Ice Inc. 980-355-9851 www.zippyicecompany.com

Graphic Design

Airboat www.airboatstudio.com

Cosmopolitan Creative Group 912-507-1708 www.cosmopolitancreativegroup.com

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

Designs by Jamison www.designsbyjamison.com/

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

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

Cost Effective Maintenance, Inc. 704-332-9711

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 & Heat 704-824-0380 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

www.advancedroofingandexteriors. 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

Carolina Lawn Service & Maintenance 919-633-4647 www.carolinalawn.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

MAKK Services Unlimited, Inc. www.makkservicesinc.com

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

Alpha Labor Contractors, Inc. 704-398-2741 www.alphalaborcontractors.com

ASDI Consulting Services 888-503-4828 www.asdiconsulting.com/

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

Bergman Brothers Staffing 704-727-8154 www.bergmanbrothers.com/

Burnett Resources, Inc.

888-237-4108

www.burnettresources.com

BPN Healthcare Concepts 866-623-8880 www.bpnconcepts.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

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

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

Solutions Staffing 704-503-1090 www.solutionsstaffing.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 704-892-1115 www.relationinsurance.com

Janitorial/Custodial

All Things Professional Cleaning, Inc

704-345-3976

www.allthingsprofessional.net

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

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

“ Great things come from hard work and perseverance. No excuses.”

—

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 704-563-1651 www.carnitasmexican.com

Celia Estrada Realtors 704-335-4400 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

H3 Staffing, LLC www.h3staffing.com

Heits Building Services 919-249-6840

www.heitsofcentralnc.com/ Hernandez Auto Service 828-310-1326

Into Languages Global 704-408-3132 www.intolanguagesglobal.com

JDCS Home Construction 980-721-2882 www.jdcshomeconstruction.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

Manolos Bakery 704-568-2120 manolosbakery.com/ Latin American Coalition 704-531-3848 www.latinamericancoalition.org

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

Metro Landmarks

704-526-7600 www.metrolandmarks.com

Mundo Uniforms, LLC

704-287-1527 www.facebook.com/ MundoUniforms/

Precise Learning Solutions

704-606-2869 www.precisetranslating.com

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

Sign Connection

704-868-4500 www.signcon.com

USTT, Inc.

704-676-0990 www.usttusa.com

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

BluePepper Public Relations

704-625-6564 www.bluepepperpr.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 www.dreambuilderscommunication.com

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

Fast Signs 704-599-4949 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

Lyerly Agency 704-525-3937 www.lyerly.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

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

The Jervay Agency www.thejervayagency.com

The LEPR Agency www.lepragency.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 larazalaraza.com/charlotte 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

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

Symmetry Behavioral Health Systems 704-632-9900 www.symmetrybhs.com

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

Vaya Health 800-893-6246 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

704-366-1616 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

Color Star Media 980-819-0255 www.colorstarmedia.com

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

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

704-352-2010 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

Sanborn 704-347-4552 www.sanborn.com

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

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 www.proforma.com/ impressionsgroup

RR Donnelly 800-280-4520 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 1-800-200-9797 www.visionenvelope.com

Publishing/CustomPublishing Books

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 704-469-4815 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 www.toddcobuilders.com

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.uptown2go.com/ sohobistro/default.aspx

Shun Lee Palace, Inc.

704-366-2025 www.shunleecharlotte.com

Thai House - University

704-717-8006 www.thaihouse.us.com

Thai Orchid

704-364-1134 www.thaiorchidrestaurantcharlotte.com

Thai Taste

704-332-0001 www.thaitastecharlotte.com

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 www.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

“ Failure is not the opposite of success — it’s part of success.”

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

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

Infinity Resources Group LLC

704-879-1050

www.infinityresourcesgroup.com/

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

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

www.sunshinetransportationservice.com

Video Production

180 Productions, LLC

704-277-2818

www.180productionsgroup.com

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

Color Star Media 980-819-0255 www.colorstarmedia.com

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

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

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

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

The Inertia Group 704-301-2551 www.inertia-group.com

Web Design

Brand Equity Marketing, LLC 704-372-3982 www.brandequitymktg.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 Services www.zuricreative.com

Nonprofits

Chambers of Commerce

Carolinas Asian-American Chamber of Commerce

866-937-2742

www.caacc.com

Carolinas LGBT+ Chamber of Commerce

704-837-4050 www.clgbtcc.org

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

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Black Chamber of Commerce www.cmbcc.org/

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

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 www.chineseamericanassociation.org/ Democratic Women of Mecklenburg County www.meckdemwomen.com

German Language and Culture Foundation 704-906-5850 www.germanfoundation.com

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 www.latinamericancoalition.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 704-266-6577

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

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