The 1-23-2026 Edition of The Charlotte Weekly Matthews-Mint Hill
by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com
MATTHEWS – Faith leaders throughout the Matthews area prayed together and shared perspectives on Martin Luther King Jr.’s words and legacy Jan. 19 at Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church.
Pastor Larry Whitley served as the host for the 10th annual event, which included uplifting performances of “Ride On, King Jesus,” “ e Lord Will Make a Way Somehow,” and
“We Shall Overcome.”
“While they were singing that beautiful spiritual song, ‘we shall overcome someday,’ the thought that went through my mind is ‘someday is not a day on the calendar,’” said Pastor Brent Watts, of Abundant Life Church Matthews, during his benediction. “But then the question came, ‘why not today?’ … I pray that when we leave this place today, we would leave here saying, ‘Today is the day that it starts.’”
David Christy, pastor of Matthews United Methodist Church, shared verses from Luke
CHARLOTTE – Gov. Josh Stein visited East Mecklenburg High School on Jan. 13 to hear from teachers about the impact of cell phone-free classroom environments.
Last summer, Stein signed into law a bill that established cell phone-free classrooms. e law took e ect on Jan. 1, as North Carolina joined 32 other states restricting cell phones in classrooms.
“Cell phone-free classrooms enable students to focus on social studies instead of social media and strengthen relationships with their peers,” Stein said. “ e teachers I met today are doing their all for their students, making every e ort to set them up for success.”
In December, the Governor’s Advisory Council for Student Safety and Well-Being released its annual report and accompanying video report highlighting the positive impact of limiting wireless communication devices, including cell phones, during instructional time.
MATTHEWS – Windsor Run recently announced the construction of its final independent living residence building. Blueridge Landing, scheduled to open in spring 2026, will bring 97 new homes to the community.
“When we welcomed our rst residents in 2018, our goal was to meet the tremendous demand for the vibrant Erickson Senior Living lifestyle in this region. We've continued to do just that,” Executive Director Michael Wehrle said. “Over the last seven years, we've constructed nine residence buildings, two clubhouses and a continuing care neighborhood.”
e new residences in Blueridge Landing will feature open layouts; modern kitchens with granite countertops and stainless-steel appliances; full-size, side-by-side washers and dryers; walk-in closets; and updated ooring and light fixtures. Many homes will also include patios, bay windows and screened porches.
“When classrooms are free from cell phone distractions, students can fully immerse themselves in learning,” said Crystal Hill, superintendent for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. “It gives them the chance to focus on ideas, connect with peers and engage in meaningful discussions, which helps them build con dence and curiosity – important skills that will serve them well beyond school walls.”
During the visit, Stein toured East Mecklenburg’s automotive and culinary education programs, o ered in partnership with Central Piedmont Community College.
e previous week, Stein announced North Carolina was ranked the Top State for Workforce Development for 2026 by Site Selection Magazine. North Carolina was chosen due to its strong public schools, community colleges, universities and innovative workforce development programs.
Stein urged the General Assembly to pass a state budget that invests in North Carolina’s
“We listened carefully to what our current residents and priority list members enjoy most about the homes already on campus,” Sales Director Ryan Barkley said. “As a result, Blueridge Landing will o er our most popular oor plans, including the one-bedroom, one-and-a-half-bath Cary and the large two-bedroom, two-bath Washington and Madison designs.”
Blueridge Landing will also introduce a new oor plan: the two-bedroom, two-bath
Faith leaders come together to honor MLK Jr.
10:25-28, the lead up to the Parable of the Good Samaritan.
A legal expert asks Jesus what he must do to gain eternal life. When asked for his interpretation of the law, the expert viewed this as to love God and your neighbor. But the expert asked Jesus, “and who is my neighbor?”
Christy said that last question wasn’t necessary. Love your neighbor, no exceptions.
“When it comes to the work of anti-racism in our culture, I want to submit today that we're su ering from a spiritual parallax that keeps us from getting where we need to be,
or at least from what Martin Luther King Jr. called the white moderate,” Christy said. He de ned parallax as “the apparent shift in an object's position due to a change in the observer's viewpoint.”
Christy connected this with King’s “Letter from a Birmingham Jail,” in which the pastor expressed disappointment in the white moderate for preferring the calm of a negative peace over the tension needed to achieve a positive peace of justice. Christy shared King
Stein holds teacher roundtable at East Mecklenburg High Stein holds teacher roundtable at East Mecklenburg High
teachers and public schools. His proposed 2025-2027 budget includes raising starting teacher salaries to the highest in the Southeast by increasing their average pay by 10.6% and reinstating master’s degree pay. It also invests in more school nurses, counselors and social workers and provides free breakfast in public schools.
Windsor Run finishing up final residence building
Monroe. is design features a large living room that opens to a porch and bedrooms located on opposite sides of the home.
Barbara Malady, one of Windsor Run's rst residents, is excited to welcome new neighbors and make more friends.
“I enjoy meeting new people,” she said. “Over the years, we've welcomed neighbors from many di erent places, each bringing new experiences and insights to share.”
Malady said Windsor Run has been good about adding amenities and experiences, such as the new walking trail.
Blueridge Landing will bring an on-site CVS Pharmacy and a zen garden to the community.
“ is is an exciting time for Windsor Run,” Wehrle said. “With the opening of Blueridge Landing, we nalize independent living construction and usher in a new phase – one of an established and thriving community.”
On the web: ericksonseniorliving.com/ windsor-run/request-form
Independence linebacker earns award during Mayo Bowl
CHARLOTTE – The Jimmie Lee Kirkpatrick Award presented by Dr Pepper was awarded this year to Dallas Brannon, a senior linebacker from Independence High School. Brannon completed 394 tackles, 27 tackles for loss, 8.5 sacks and 1 interception in high school. He is committed to continuing his career next year at the University of Virginia.
e Charlotte Sports Foundation, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools and the community chose Brannon from a pool of 21 nominees. e award comes with a trophy and a $10,000 scholarship prize.
e Jimmie Lee Kirkpatrick Award is given annually during the Duke’s Mayo Bowl to a CMS senior who displays talent on the football eld and a passion for helping his community.
The award’s namesake is Jimmie Lee Kirkpatrick of Myers Park High School, who fought for the desegregation of North Carolina’s all-star bowl game, the Shrine Bowl. He went on to play football at Purdue and eventually settled in Oregon, where he continued to push for equal rights.
Modern-day nominees embody his commitment to excellence on and o the eld.
“We’re honored to recognize a deserving young man in our community alongside Dr Pepper and Jimmie Lee Kirkpatrick,” said Will Pitts, CEO of the Charlotte Sports Foundation. “Football is more than a game. It’s an opportunity to develop the next generation’s leaders, instilling in them the values that Jimmie embodies.”
Jimmie Lee Kirkpatrick o ered Brannon some advice on his win.
“As I look back at my playing career, beyond the athleticism, it is an opportunity to grow and meet new people, new in uences, new cultures, just to grow as an individual and to get an overall life experience.” Kirkpatrick said. “I encourage people to don't just be an athlete. Be an all-around great person.”
Je Smith, division sales manager at Dr Pepper, said his company has given away over $20 million in tuition over the last 30 years.
“We are proud and humbled to partner with the Charlotte Sports Foundation to help sponsor the Jimmie Lee Kirkpatrick Award,” Smith said.
Since its inception in 2021, Jimmie Lee Kirkpatrick Award winners include:
• 2021: Jeremiah Burch Jr., Olympic High School
• 2022: Michael JJ Coleman, Butler High School
• 2023: Phillip Harris, Butler High School
• 2024: Cameron Cyr, Hough High School
This rendering shows what Blueridge Landing will look like at Windsor Run. Photo courtesy of Windsor Run
Gov. Josh Stein met with educators Jan. 13 at East Mecklenburg High School. Photos courtesy of Office of Josh Stein
Gov. Josh Stein toured East Mecklenburg’s automotive and culinary education programs.
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Charlotte, Advocate Health
support early-stage startups
NEWS BRIEFS
The Pearl, gaining hands-on experience in STEM environments and developing employability skills.
Metro School Hosts Gala at The Pearl
CHARLOTTE – Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools’ Metro School celebrated a year of partnerships during its second annual Metro Gala on Jan. 15 at e Pearl.
The event highlighted Metro School’s work with partners to provide hands-on educational experiences that support growth, creativity and workforce readiness for students with disabilities.
Over the past year, Metro School has partnered with Atrium Health, as well as e Pearl innovation district, and Hawthorne Academy of Health Sciences to offer STEMbased learning opportunities.
“When our community shows up for our students, it reinforces that their abilities matter, their dreams are valid and their futures are full of possibility,” Metro School Principal Fermandi Dyson said.
Marathon organizers make donation
CHARLOTTE – Novant Health
Charlotte Marathon organizers presented a check for $138,641 to
CHARLOTTE – The City of Charlotte, in partnership with Advocate Health, is launching gBETA Charlotte Health to support early-stage startups advancing health care and digital health solutions.
Operated by gener8tor and funded by the City of Charlotte, gBETA Charlotte Health is a continuation of the existing gBETA Charlotte, which was launched in 2024. e program has had 10 companies graduate, raising $2.2 million in capital and creating 69 jobs.
BETA Charlotte Health will be hosted at Connect Labs Charlotte, which is managed by Wexford Science & Technology. Connect Labs Charlotte is located at e Pearl, Advocate Health’s globally leading innovation district. e program is now recruiting early-stage startups and will kick o on April 2. Learn more at https://www.gener8tor.com/gbeta/charlotte.
Maya Hotels unveils renovations
CHARLOTTE – Maya Hotels completed three full-property renovations across the Carolinas within the past year.
e projects result in about 34% of its total guest rooms being newly renovated across its portfolio.
Renovations were at Hampton Inn & Suites Charlotte Arrowood Road, Candlewood Suites Mooresville Lake Norman and Hampton Inn Columbia Northeast Fort Jackson Area.
Renovations were designed to
Novant Health Hemby Children’s Hospital.
e donation represents dollars raised from the 2025 Novant Health Charlotte Marathon. This year’s check brings the event’s cumulative support for the hospital to well over $750,000 since the partnership began.
“For the children and families who rely on Novant Health Hemby Children’s Hospital, this event represents hope and healing,” said Dr. Catherine Ohmstede, physician leader for the Novant Health Children’s Institute in the Greater Charlotte region. “Support from the runners directly strengthens our ability to deliver remarkable care to every child and family who walks through our doors.”
CATS to host public meetings to identify fare system improvements CHARLOTTE – e Charlotte Area Transit System is planning fare system improvements.
CATS invites the public to provide feedback on the fare modernization study during one virtual meeting and a series of in-person meetings to identify improvements to the fare system.
e virtual public meeting will be held from noon to 1 p.m. Jan. 27 on the CATS YouTube channel. Comments can be submitted via YouTube chat during the live streaming.
In-person public meetings are as follows:
• Jan. 27, 5 to 7 p.m., at Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center Room 280 (600 E. 4th St., Charlotte).
• Jan. 28, 5 to 7 p.m., at Cornelius Town Hall (21445 Catawba Ave., Cornelius).
• Feb. 4, 5 to 7 p.m., at Valerie C. Woodard Center Community Room (3205 Freedom Drive, Charlotte).
On the web: charlottenc. gov/CATS/Fares-Passes/ Fare-Modernization-Program
Big Brothers Big Sisters hosts annual mentoring summit
CHARLOTTE – Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Carolinas was scheduled to host its Impactful Youth Mentoring Summit on Jan. 22 at the Dubois Center.
In its third year, the summit gathers advocates who serve and support youth. It offers workshops, panel discussions and resources.
“We know that studies show the positive e ect of mentoring,” BBBSCC President and CEO Donna Dunlap said. “However, as the oldest and largest youth-mentoring organization in the Charlotte region, BBBSCC felt a responsibility to bring together youth-serving organizations, providers, local o cials and funders to provide a deeper understanding of
elevate the guest experience through refreshed guestrooms, modernized public spaces, upgraded technology and layouts that support how guests travel, work and unwind.
“ ese renovations are designed to create spaces where guests immediately feel welcomed, comfortable, and con dent in choosing our hotels as their place to stay,” Co-CEO Parimal akor said. “At the same time, they give our teams a product they are proud to work in and empower them to deliver exceptional and thoughtful guest experiences.”
Real estate fund manager adds Charlotte community WASHINGTON, D.C. –Penzance acquired about $200 million in multifamily and residential assets totaling 1,100 units and over 1.2 million square feet during the fourth quarter of 2025.
The real estate fund manager expanded its footprint across Virginia and the Carolinas with four projects. Penzance targeted a mix of high-growth markets with strong employment drivers and limited new supply.
Among them was Presley Oaks, a 318-unit multifamily community in North Charlotte, inside the I-485 loop near University City and Research Park. Built in 1996, Presley Oaks o ers strong value to tenants with spacious apartments, 9’ ceilings, private garages, a pool, and a tness center.
• Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar has a new limited-time menu from Jan. 14 to Feb. 16, including Loaded Tater Tot Soup, Mediterranean
challenges and opportunities facing our young people to o er ways of improving services and support that can make a signi cant impact.”
2026 Navy Week comes to Charlotte
CHARLOTTE – e Navy O ce of Community Outreach recently announced the 12 locations it will visit in 2026 as part of the Navy’s signature outreach program known as Navy Weeks.
e program provides an opportunity for communities to better understand how the Navy delivers power for peace, from seabed to space. It visits Charlotte from May 4 to 10.
As the nation celebrates Freedom 250 throughout 2026, the Navy’s Outreach team will embark on a celebratory “Road Trip to 250,” connecting communities across America to their Navy.
On the web; outreach.navy.mil/ navy-weeks/
College to open community garden soon
MONROE – South Piedmont Community College is growing a community garden at the Tyson Family Center for Technology.
e garden will provide a handson space where students can learn, connect and unwind.
Located behind the Tyson building, the garden already has a fence installed, with a storage shed coming soon. Once complete, it will be open to students, faculty and sta .
“This garden grew out of cross-campus collaboration and a shared vision for an inclusive, student-centered space,” said Nikki Meyers, director of compass education. “Horticulture Academy students help plan and maintain the garden, gaining real-world experience while building academic, vocational and life skills.”
People can get involved by joining the beekeepers and garden club or enrolling in a continuing education class.
On the web: spcc.edu/ student-life-resources/ clubs-organizations/ South Piedmont reopens library
MONROE – South Piedmont Community College has reopened the Old Charlotte Highway Campus Library in a new location within the Main Building, Room 3168, next to the Campus Store.
e updated space was designed to provide a more comfortable and inviting environment for study, collaboration, and student engagement, while continuing to o er core services such as printing, research assistance, study areas and book checkout.
e library has also expanded its
Power Bowl, Southern Pimento Burger and Tipsy Elvis Shake with Jack Daniel’s.
• Bobby’s Burgers By Bobby Flay is serving a Little Italy Burger through Feb. 28 inspired by Bobby Flay’s travels to Italy. Also, the taste of Rocky Road comes to life in a custard milkshake.
ERA Live Moore welcomes Yaminah team
CHARLOTTE – ERA Live Moore announced that Yaminah & Co. is joining the rm’s Charlotte market.
Led by Team Lead Akilah Yaminah, Yaminah & Co. serves corporate leaders, sports and entertainment professionals, families seeking exceptional homes and others. eir team specializes in high-touch representation for complex, high-value transactions where discretion, strategy and precision matter most.
“Yaminah & Co. is de ned by a collective mindset, where every client is supported by the full strength of our team as we build trust, legacy, and exceptional outcomes by design, for years to come,” Yaminah said. “Joining ERA Live Moore allows us to continue serving our clients at the highest level while growing as a team within an environment that values excellence, collaboration, and long-term success.”
On the web: yaminahandco.com
Ruby Sunshine unveils
Carnival Menu
NEW ORLEANS – Carnival
Season arrives at Ruby Sunshine with a new lineup of brunch specials inspired by the spirit and
services to include virtual Book-A-Librarian appointments, offering one-on-one support for research, citations and navigating library resources.
Master Gardeners to host symposium
MONROE – Union County Extension Master Gardeners will present its second annual Garden Symposium.
Presenters will include author and horticulturist Brie Arthur, ecologist and native plant expert Carrie DeJaco and David Blackley, owner of Renfrow Hardware and Garden Center.
The event takes place from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Jan. 31 at the Union County Agricultural and Event Center, 3230-D Presson Road, Monroe. Register in advance at mastergardenersunioncountync.org.
Quick Hits
• Ardrey Kell High, Butler High, East Mecklenburg High, Levine Middle College High, Myers Park High, Providence High and South Mecklenburg High were named to the AP School Honor Roll.
• East Mecklenburg High placed first, Independence High School placed third and Myers Park High School placed fourth in the CMS JROTC District Championship Book Study Competition on Jan. 8 at Ballantyne Ridge High.
• Artisan’s Palate will host “Pub Crawl – A Beer Dinner with Artisan’s Palate x Pilot Brewing Company” at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 28. e four-course beer dinner reimagines classic pub fare from around the world, paired with beers from Pilot Brewing Company. Tickets cost $85 plus tax and gratuity. On the web: theartisanpalate.com
• SHAPE America named McAlpine Elementary PE teacher Mandy Davis as District Teacher of the Year.
• Daniel Mihaylovich, of Charlotte, made the dean's list at Bucknell University in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania. Students must earn 3.5 or higher GPA.
• e North Carolina Center for the Advancement of Teaching has named Arjge Brothers, of University Park Creative Arts, as a nalist for Beginning Teacher of the Year.
• Waxhaw residents Madeline Holmes and James Salicco made the dean’s list at Carson-Newman University in Je erson City, Tennessee.
• Madison Molloy, of Waxhaw, made the dean's list at Bucknell University in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania. Students must earn 3.5 or higher GPA.
• Ryan Curran, of Waxhaw, made the dean’s list at Mercer University in Macon, Georgia. Curran is a junior in the School of Business.
tradition of classic New Orleans celebrations like Mardi Gras.
e Carnival Menu will be available from Jan. 14 to Feb. 24 across all locations. Items include:
• King Cake Beignets: New Orleans–style beignets topped with almond cheesecake, blueberry compote, lemon curd, whipped cream and Mardi Gras sugar crystals.
• Ooh-Bae Stu ed French Toast: Brioche French toast stu ed with ube cheesecake, topped with lemon curd, passion fruit popping boba and whipped cream.
• Krewe-Berry Margarita: Pueblo Viejo 100% Blanco tequila and triple sec blended with macerated blueberries, fresh blueberry juice and house sour mix, nished with a Mardi Gras sugar salt rim.
On the web: rubybrunch.com
Advocate Health names chief academic officer
CHARLOTTE – Ebony Boulware has been named chief academic o cer at Advocate Health.
Boulware will continue to serve as dean of Wake Forest University School of Medicine, a role she has had since January 2023.
As chief academic o cer, Boulware will provide strategic vision and leadership for Advocate Health’s academic enterprise, advancing education, research and clinical innovation across the organization’s multi-state footprint.
“Ebony is a brilliant doctor and strategist, and her dual role ensures that knowledge and expertise ow in both directions between our academic core, Wake Forest University
School of Medicine, and our nearly 70 hospitals across six states,” Advocate Health CEO Eugene A. Woods said.
Boulware succeeds Julie Ann Freischlag, who retired at the end of 2025 after more than three decades of leadership in academic medicine.
Charlotte Area Chamber events
CHARLOTTE – e Charlotte Area Chamber of Commerce hosts its annual meeting and three ribbon cuttings.
• Members celebrate the grand opening of the Sack Company with a ribbon cutting from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Jan. 27 at 8200 Arrowridge Blvd., Suite E, Charlotte. Register in advance.
• Members celebrate the grand opening of the D.R. Horton’s Oak Grove Hill with a ribbon cutting from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Jan. 28 at 7009 Butternut Oak Terrace, Huntersville. Register in advance.
• e chamber holds its annual meeting and awards celebration from 8:30 to 10 a.m. Jan. 29 at Sandra and Leon Levine Jewish Community Center, 5007 Providence Road, Charlotte. Register in advance.
• Members celebrate the grand opening of DRB Homes Miller Farm with a ribbon cutting from 2 to 4 p.m. Jan. 29 at 4124 Hickory Place Lane, Pineville. Register in advance.
Visit charlotteareachamber.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
The 21st running of the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon drew 11,500 athletes to the marathon, half marathon and 5K events. The campaign raised
Photos courtesy CharlotteMecklenburg Schools
words, “lukewarm acceptance is much more bewildering than outright rejection.”
Several other pastors participated in the program.
Pastor Alvin J. Denson, of Walking By Faith Community Church in Charlotte, gave the invocation, praying that the church not stay silent but to “rise up with a prophetic voice that speaks truth to power and advances the values of (God’s) kingdom.”
John Mouritsen, of Morning Star Lutheran Church in Matthews, read from the Old Testament. He chose Psalm 27, A Psalm of David, Triumphant Song of Con dence.
Lonnie Stinson, of Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church, read from the New Testament. He focused on Matthew 5:1-12, “promises from God for the people of God.”
Chris Whitley, of Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church, prayed for God to help us walk, pray and live together as sisters and brothers as well as to live out the principles of love, nonviolence and justice.
“Father, we come to you as humble as we know how, for a man that sacri ced his life for not just one color, but all colors,” she said. “And Lord, we say thank you. ank you, Lord.”
Addison Saunders and Jayden Scott expressed gratitude for earning scholarships through the church’s MLK Scholars program.
Saunders, of Butler High School, shared how King’s dream allowed her to grow up among people of di erent backgrounds and cultures as well as taught her to value people for who they are instead of where they come from.
She shared how King’s perseverance and determination to overcome challenges faced during the Civil Rights Movement inspire her to push through any challenges she may experience in her life.
Saunders plans to study computer science and play college volleyball at Marshall University.
Scott, a Nation Ford High School student who will be attending East Tennessee State University, also draws inspiration from King’s perseverance.
“He represents the values that I want to carry in my life,” Scott said. “He also showed me that fairness, kindness and determination are three things that can help you in the real world.”
Mayor John Higdon spoke of how King was an innovator “in the realm of human possibility.”
“Dr. King revolutionized how America speaks, how America listens, and how we dream,” Higdon said. “What sets King apart is the way he fused spiritual authority with social action, transforming oratory into a direct instrument of justice rather than merely inspiration or persuasion. Dr. King understood that words could be tools for transformation.”
Jan 23
Teen Movie
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Teens watch “A Minecraft Movie” during Teen Movie Matinee at Matthews Library. Register in advance at cmlibrary.org/ locations/Matthews.
1-3 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Stage Play
Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts presents “ e Prince of Egypt: e Musical” at Matthews Community Center. Tickets range from $23 to $30 for adults and $20 to $27 for seniors, military, students and children. Get tickets at matthewsplayhouse.com.
7:30 p.m.; 100 E. McDowell St., Matthews
Jan. 24
Family Storytime
Children ages 0-5 engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Matthews Library. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Matthews
9:30-10 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Family Storytime
Families engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Mint Hill Library. Registration starts 30 minutes in person before the start of the event. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Mint-Hill
9:30-10 a.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
Paws to Read Children ages 5-11 read to a volunteer therapy dog at Matthews Library. Sign up for a 15-minute session upon arrival. Registration opens 15 minutes before the rst session. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews
10-11 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Knot Just Knitting Adults work on knitting or
crocheting projects during Knot Just Knotting at Matthews Library. cmlibrary.org/ locations/Matthews 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
Stage Play
Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts presents “ e Prince of Egypt: e Musical” at Matthews Community Center. Tickets range from $23 to $30 for adults and $20 to $27 for seniors, military, students and children. Get tickets at matthewsplayhouse.com.
2 or 7:30 p.m.; 100 E. McDowell St., Matthews
Chess Club e Family Chess Club learns and plays chess at Mint Hill Library. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Mint-Hill
3-4 p.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
Paws to Read
Children ages 5-11 read to a volunteer therapy dog at Matthews Library. Sign up for a 15-minute session upon arrival. Registration opens 15 minutes before the rst session. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Matthews
3:30-4:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Jan. 25
Stage Play
Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts presents “ e Prince of Egypt: e Musical” at Matthews Community Center. Tickets range from $23 to $30 for adults and $20 to $27 for seniors, military, students and children. Get tickets at matthewsplayhouse.com.
2 p.m.; 100 E. McDowell St., Matthews
Jan. 26
Family Storytime
Children ages 0-5 engage with
stories and songs through Family Storytime at Matthews Library. Register at the train desk within 15 minutes of the program starting. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Matthews
9:15-9:45 or 10:15-10:45 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Baby Storytime
Children ages 0-2 build language and socialization skills in Baby Storytime at Mint Hill Library. Register for the event 30 minutes before the program. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Mint-Hill
9:30-10 a.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
Conversation Club
Preteens and teens practice speaking during Intermediate Spanish Conversation Club at Matthews Library. cmlibrary. org/locations/Matthews
Noon-1 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Chair Yoga
Synthia Gerson leads a Mindful Chair Yoga class for adults at Matthews Library. Register in advance at cmlibrary.org/ locations/Matthews.
1:15-2 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Paws to Read
Children ages 5-11 read to a volunteer therapy dog at Matthews Library. Sign up for a 15-minute session upon arrival. Registration opens 15 minutes before the rst session. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 3:30-4:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Open Mic
Carolina Beer Temple presents the Temple of Laughs Comedy Night & Open Mic. Sign-ups open at 6:30 p.m. carolinabeertemple.com
6:30 p.m.; 215 N. Ames St., Matthews
Jan. 27
Family Storytime
Children ages 0-5 engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Matthews Library. Register at the train desk within 15 minutes of the start. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Matthews
10:15-10:45 or 11-11:30 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Family Storytime
Families engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Mint Hill Library. Registration starts 30 minutes in person before the start of the event. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Mint-Hill
10:15-10:45 or 11-11:30 a.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
Writing Group e Speak Up Writing Group shares writing and feedback at Matthews Library. Register in advance at cmlibrary.org/ locations/Matthews.
1:30-3 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Marvelous Math
Children ages 3-5 engage in math-themed stories and activities during Preschool Storytime: Marvelous Math at Matthews Library. Register in advance at cmlibrary.org/ locations/Matthews.
2-2:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews
Creating with Books
Children ages 5-11 make Snowmen Puppets during Creating with Books at Mint Hill Library. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Mint-Hill
4:30-5:30 p.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill
Alzheimer’s Association leader happy with support
CHARLOTTE – The Alzheimer’s Association – Western Carolina Chapter’s Do What You Love to End ALZ campaign ranked ninth nationwide for funds raised.
is marked the local chapter’s fourth consecutive year in the Top 10 among all 75 Alzheimer’s Association chapters across the U.S.
Do What You Love to End ALZ, previously known as e Longest Day, is a exible fundraiser that allows people, organizations and groups to turn something they love into a fundraiser for the Alzheimer’s Association.
In 2025, the Western Carolina Chapter raised $333,432 through events and activities. Combined with the Eastern North Carolina Chapter, more than 320 fundraisers statewide generated a total of $502,536, a new state record. ese funds support critical research, risk reduction and early detection, and quality care and support for the more than 210,000 North Carolinians living with the disease and their 381,000 caregivers.
“I’m so proud of this accomplishment and grateful for all of our wonderful participants who help our chapter consistently rank nationally,” said Katherine Lambert, CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association - Western Carolina Chapter. “ ank you to our participants, volunteers, sta and the entire North Carolina community who always go above and beyond to make this campaign a success and most importantly, raise critical funds to reach our mission to #ENDALZ.”
Carolina, credited the creativity and commitment of participants. She said the amount raised represents “hope, progress and the promise of a future without Alzheimer’s.” On the web: alz.org/dowhatyoulove
– 97.5
• Carolina Steel Sports Bar, 12206 Copper Way – 96.5
• Chuy’s, 7314 Waverly Walk Ave. – 92.5
• Copain, 14020 Stream Way – 98
• Double Dubs, 8200 Providence Road
– 97.5
• First Watch, 13743 Conlan Circle – 96
• Hickory Tavern Raw Bar & Grill, 11504 Providence Road – 97.5
• Mellow Mushroom, 14835 Ballantyne Village Way – 97.5
• Naf Naf Grill, 10706 Providence Road – 98.5
• Pio Chicken, 9816 Rea Road – 96.5
• Portofino’s Italian Restaurant, 8128 Providence Road – 94.5
• AFC Zenshi (Publix), 1615 S. Providence Road – 98
• Publix (deli), 1615 S. Providence Road – 98
• Publix (meat/seafood), 1615 S. Providence Road – 98.5
• Publix (produce), 1615 S. Providence Road – 100
Matthews • Adam’s Mart, 11130 E. Independence Blvd. – 96.5
• Asian Buffet & Grill, 11032 E. Independence Blvd. – 95
• Food Lion (produce), 3609 Matthews-Mint Hill Road – 98
• IHOP, 9253 E. Independence Blvd. – 96.5
• Konark Meat Market, 11328 E. Indepen-
dence Blvd. – 97
• Que Onda Tacos & Tequila, 3022 Weddington Road – 99
Mint Hill area
• AFC Zenshi at Publix, 6828 Mat-
thews-Mint Hill Road – 97
• Chick-fil-A, 7404 Matthews-Mint Hill Road – 97
• Circle K, 4921 E. Independence Blvd. – 98
• Dunkin’/Baskin Robbins, 7001 Matthews-Mint Hill Road – 97
• Dunwellz Custom Kitchen and Pour House, 7110 Brighton Park Drive – 97.5
• Food Lion (deli), 6275 Wilson Grove Road – 98.5
• Food Lion (meat/seafood), 6275 Wilson Grove Road – 98.5
• Jersey Mike’s, 7028 Brighton Park Drive
Grill & Bar, 2861 W. U.S. 74 – 97 • Community Mart, 1002 S. Rocky River Road – 94
Subs, 2319 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 94 • Hot Wok Restaurant, 5943 Weddington-Monroe
Carolina Theatre to celebrate Black History Month
CHARLOTTE – To celebrate Black History Month, Carolina Theatre is launching the Black and Brilliant series, a collection of six award-winning movies and an evening of music that center Black storylines, characters and artists.
Included in the series is a special showing of 2006’s Academy Award-winning lm “Dreamgirls” on Galentine’s Day (Feb. 13) and the NAACP Image Award-winning lm “Love and Basketball” on Valentine’s Day (Feb. 14).
e Carolina eatre will end Black History Month with a special performance from Opera Carolina on Feb. 28. e concert, Lift Every Voice and Sing, celebrates the legacy of Black artists and composers from spirituals to operatic arias.
“Our celebration of Black History Month reflects one of our core, foundational beliefs: e arts are at their strongest when we uplift voices, histories and perspectives that have been systemically sidelined,” said Jared Misner, communications director. “Honoring the brilliance of Black artists across the decades rea rms our theater’s commitment to being a space where everyone knows they’re welcome. We’re a theater for all of
Charlotte, and our programming will always demonstrate that.”
The Carolina Theatre didn’t permit Black people to enter from 1927 to 1963. e theater began a trial integration period in 1963, where Black guests were required to reserve seats in advance but were relegated to the balcony. e theater abolished racist policies after a few weeks in 1963 and began admitting all patrons without question of race.
“While we’re very much the same historic theater that has had a home right here on Tryon Street for nearly a century, we’re also a very different theater in many ways,” Misner said. “And thank goodness for that.” e schedule for the Carolina eatre’s Black and Brilliant Series includes:
• Feb. 6, 7 p.m., “Shaft” (1971)
• Feb. 7, 7 p.m., “Do the Right ing”
• Feb. 13, 7 p.m., “Dreamgirls” (Galentine’s Day)
• Feb. 14, 7 p.m., “Love and Basketball” (Valentine’s Day)
• Feb. 15, 2 p.m., “ e Princess and the Frog”
• Feb. 20, 7 p.m., “Sinners” (2025)
Buy tickets at eCarolina.com or in person at the guest services desk.
Kelly Klotz, committee chair of the 2025 campaign in North
Communities across
LIVE MUSIC
Langhorne Slim drops album ahead of Charlotte date
CHARLOTTE – Singer/songwriter Langhorne Slim has dropped his new album “The Dreamin’ Kind” via Dualtone Records.
“ e Dreamin’ Kind” is Langhorne Slim’s ninth studio album and nds the Pennsylvania-born, Nashville-based artist strapping on an electric guitar and embracing his longtime love of larger-than-life rock & roll.
e album was produced by Greta Van Fleet’s Sam F. Kiszka, who also plays across the album alongside his bandmate Daniel Wagner.
Highlights include the propulsive, electrifying “Rock N Roll,” the hard-rocking juggernaut “Haunted Man,” the banjo-driven roots anthem “Dream Come True,” and the soulful, Motown-inspired “On Fire.”
Slim will hit the road next month for his nationwide U.S. headline tour supporting the new album. It’ll include stops at Charlotte’s Neighborhood eatre on Feb. 6 with support from Laney Jones and the Spirits.
Get tickets at langhorneslimmusic.com.
Zombie, Manson team up for another tour
CHARLOTTE – Rob Zombie and Marilyn Manson announced a co-headlining summer tour across North America that includes an Aug. 24 stop at Charlotte’s Truliant Amphitheater.
The tour unites two of rock’s most recognizable icons for a
21-date run. Zombie is set to release his eighth solo album on Feb. 27. Manson released his 13th full-length LP in 2024.
The tour will also feature Gold-certified Mongolian metal collective e Hu as special guests on all dates.
Get tickets at livenation.com
Pitbull to perform three times in the Carolinas
CHARLOTTE – Pitbull returns to North America with the I’m Back Tour, marking a massive outing with special guest and Grammy Award winner Lil Jon.
Produced by Live Nation, the North America leg includes a stop at Credit One Stadium in Charleston, S.C. on May 17; Coastal Credit Union Music Park in Raleigh on May 19; and Truliant Amphitheater in Charlotte on May 20. Get tickets to see Mr. Worldwide at livenation.com.
Jan. 23
• CharBar No. 7 (Mint Hill):
Anna J
• Evening Muse: Justin Clyde Williams w/ JD Graham
• Grapes Bistro & Wine Bar: Shannon Lee
• Middle C Jazz: Richard Elliot
• Moochies Tavern: Dusk Till
Dawn
• Neighborhood eatre: Donna the Bu alo
• Southern Range Brewing: Tim Hong
• Spectrum Center: Fantasia w/ Anthony Hamilton
• Stooges Pub & Grub: Sweet Leaf
• Sun Valley Social House:
Dustin and Tara
• The Club House Bites and Booze: Dakota Groves Band
• e Fillmore: Trap Karaoke
• The Milestone: American Theory w/ Infinity, Ham Radio, Colormekrazy! & Empty Room
• e Trail House: U-Phonik
Jan. 24
• Amos’ Southend: e Breakfast Club
• Evening Muse: e Ocho
• Middle C Jazz: Richard Elliot
• Neighborhood eatre: Jump
• Stooges Pub & Grub: Deep Shallow
• The Club House Bites and Booze: Kick N Rocks
• e Courthouse Self-Pour Beer: Jack Fontana
• e Fillmore: Bad sh
• e Milestone: Wiltwither w/ God Glitch & More
• e Trail House: Lunch Money
• e Underground: Kokoroko
• Two Buck Saloon: Little Johnny Trailer Trash
• Vintner’s Hill: Matthew Ablan
Jan. 25
• Middle C Jazz: William Green
• Neighborhood Theatre: Stephen Kellogg & e Homecoming w/ Gutter Sinatra
• Spectrum Center: Ghost
Jan. 26
• Dowd Center eatre: Millstone Branch Boys
• Evening Muse: Open Mic
Jan. 28
• Amos’ Southend: Too Hot for Leather w/ Groove Skeleton and Edward Crowther Band
• CharBar No. 7 (Carmel): Nate
Dowdy
• Middle C Jazz: Howard McNair
• The Club House Bites and Booze: Darren Deese Duo
• The Fillmore: Motion City Soundtrack and Say Anything
• The Trail House: Pluto for Planet Duo
• e Underground: Goldford
Jan. 29
• CharBar No. 7 (Mint Hill): Scoot Pittman
• Evening Muse: Adam Ezra Group
• e Fillmore: Snow Strippers
• Visulite eatre: True Loves
VENUES
Charlotte
• Amos’ Southend: 1423 S. Tryon St.
• CharBar No. 7: 4130 Carmel Road
• Evening Muse: 3227 N. Davidson St.
• Middle C Jazz: 300 S. Brevard St.
• Neighborhood eatre: 511 E. 36th St.
• Spectrum Center: 333 E. Trade St.
• The Club House Bites and Booze: 16715 Orchard Stone Run
• e Fillmore: 820 Hamilton St.
• e Milestone: 3400 Tuckaseegee Road
• e Underground: 820 Hamilton St.
• Visulite eatre: 1615 Elizabeth Ave.
Indian Trail
• Grapes Bistro & Wine Bar: 6461 Old Monroe Road
• Sun Valley Social House: 6455 Old Monroe Road
• The Trail House: 6751 Old Monroe Road
Mint Hill
• CharBar No. 7: 7312 Town View Drive
• Stooges Pub & Grub: 13230 Albemarle Road
• Vintner’s Hill: 7427 Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Monroe
• Dowd Center eatre: 120 S. Main St.
• Home Brew Taproom & Tunes: 215 S. Main St.
• Southern Range Brewing: 151 S. Stewart St.
Nutrients help boost your immune system
By Shari Bresin Contributor
ere are things about respiratory viruses that we can’t control, such as this season’s u strain, the e ectiveness of the u vaccine or if the person sitting behind you at a restaurant is covering their cough.
And with cold and u season well underway, it’s important to take action to prevent these illnesses in ways you can control: washing your hands frequently and minimizing barehand contact of public surfaces such as doorknobs and handrails, and so on.
Another thing you can control: your diet pattern.
After all, the immune system can’t work at maximum capacity if you are de cient in nutrients.
e good news is that the diet recommendations that keep our immune systems in optimal condition are the same recommendations
Atrium
CONCORD
– Atrium Health has joined 15-time NASCAR Cup Series champions Hendrick Motorsports in a partnership that includes naming rights to the new 35,000-square-foot Atrium Health Motorsports Athletic Center.
Set to open later this month, the Atrium Health Motorsports Athletic Center at Hendrick Motorsports will provide integrated medical, wellness and sports performance resources for the team’s more than 50 pit crew athletes, while also supporting the health needs of its Charlotte-area employees. Atrium Health clinicians will sta the center.
“Partnering with Hendrick Motorsports is a de ning opportunity to deliver world-class, innovative medical care to one of the highest-performance cultures in NASCAR,” Advocate Health CEO Gene A. Woods said. “In both health care and auto racing, excellence is engineered – driven by precision, powered by state-of-the-art technology and made possible by exceptional teammates. With Atrium Health’s nationally recognized clinicians embedded on the Hendrick campus, this partnership will help keep their record-setting athletes fully on the throttle and give every team member faster, more seamless access to care on and o the track.”
for an overall healthy diet.
So, if you needed another reason to eat healthier this year, there it is.
For a strong immune system, make sure you are getting these micronutrients (Mayo Clinic, 2025):
• Iron: Needed for immune cell e ciency. Foods like red meat, beans, nuts and forti ed cereals are good sources of iron.
• Vitamin A: Shields us from infections by keeping skin and tissue healthy. Orange and red fruits and vegetables, such as carrots and bell peppers, have high levels of Vitamin A.
• Vitamin C: Promotes the creation of antibodies and the function of white blood cells. Found in strawberries, tomatoes and citrus fruits.
• Vitamin D: Activates immune defenses and plays a role in your body’s ability to effectively ght o bacteria and viruses. Found in fatty sh, egg yolks, forti ed dairy and sunlight.
• Vitamin E: An antioxidant that defends cell membranes from free radical damage. Seeds, nuts, peanut butter and some oils have this vitamin.
• Zinc: Supports immune cells’ function and development, and maintains skin barriers for ghting o bacteria and viruses. Foods such as meats, seeds, nuts and whole grains are good sources.
What about supplements?
You get more health bene ts when your nutrient intake is from food sources, such as ber, antioxidants and phytochemicals.
Nutrients are also more potent and are absorbed better from food versus supplements.
Fat-soluble vitamins, which are D, E, A and K, need fat for absorption, and won’t provide as many bene ts if taken as a supplement without a meal or food source with dietary fat.
It’s important to note that taking supplements in conjunction with eating an unhealthy diet isn’t going to cancel out the risks
that come with poor eating habits. Supplements should complement a healthy diet, not replace it.
If you are eating a healthy balanced diet, then you are likely getting enough vitamins and minerals, but getting blood work at your annual checkup will give you a bigger picture of your nutrient levels and nding out what you may be de cient in.
If your diet falls short (such as vegan diets lacking Vitamin B12), or you’re of a certain population (such as older age where it’s hard to absorb some nutrients, or pregnant women, who have more nutritional demands), then make sure you discuss with your provider about taking supplements.
Shari Bresin is the Family & Consumer Science Agent for the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Cooperative Extension Pasco County, An Equal Opportunity Institution.
Public Information Meeting
Why?
A Public Information / Neighborhood Awareness Meeting has been scheduled by Jasmine Williams, buyer of parcel 19707206 and head of school for Creation Acres Montessori. She is requesting rezoning of the approximately 20-acre property at 6300 Allen Black Road from Residential to Institutional, as required by the Town of Mint Hill’s UniÞed Development Ordinance, to allow a small K–8 farm school.
The meeting will present the proposal and provide an opportunity for community questions and feedback.
When?
Date: Saturday, February 7, 2026
Time: 10:30 AM and 11:30 AM, the same presentation given twice
“People are the foundation of our organization, and supporting their health and performance is essential to our success,” said Rick Hendrick, owner of Hendrick Motorsports. “Our new partnership with Atrium Health brings best-in-class clinical and performance resources directly to our campus. ere’s no facility like this in the world of auto racing. It’s a game-changer.
e Atrium Health Motorsports Athletic Center will help our athletes perform at their best and give our teammates convenient access to high-quality health care.”
e agreement also establishes Atrium Health as a brand partner of Hendrick Motorsports. Beginning with the 2026 NASCAR season, Atrium Health will have a significant presence across all Hendrick Motorsports-fielded teams, including logo placement on driver re
and track equipment.
e Atrium Health Motorsports Athletic Center includes a high-performance gym with training equipment, locker rooms, a team operations center for raceday competition operations, a nutrition area, athletic meeting and lm rooms, and dedicated spaces for physical therapy, hydrotherapy and recovery. e facility also features space for sports science research and a closed-loop pit stop practice circuit that can accommodate two teams concurrently.
Where?
Location: 11130 Lawyers Road, Mint Hill, NC 28227
courtesy of Hendrick
CLASSIFIEDS
SOFTWARE DEVELOPER: Charlotte, NC & various unanticipated locations throughout the U.S: Dsgn & dvlp RICEF objs across SD, MM, FI, TM, & QM modules, lvrgng ABAP OO, RAP, & CAP models for scalable, cloud-ready solns; impl BRF+, AMDP methods & advncd CDS views intgrtd w/SAP Fiori/UI5 apps to enhnce usability & atomtn. Lead end-to-end SAP impl & Agile projs, driving rqmt gathrng, soln archt, & tech delvry for cmplx cross-funcal processes; ensure complince, atomtn, & optimizd perf thru modular dsgn & extnsblty patrns. Engg scalable solns for hgh-vol indus such as utilities, retail, & agriculture, incl E-commerce integ, dynamic pricing engines ensurng seamless integ w/SAP BTP srvcs. Dvlp custom ABAP & Fiori/UI5 solns for SAP EWM processes covrng inbound/outbound logistics, warehouse task atomtn, RF frmwrk enhmnts, & PPF action cnfig; integ w/ECC/S/4HANA via OData srvcs & real-time event-bsd comm. Bachelor’s in Sci, Tech or Engg (any) w/60 mos exp in job off’d or rltd occup is req’d. EMail resume: HR, SAAP Tech Solutions, LLC, admin@saaptechsolutions.com
Even on the coldest days, the warmth of community shines at Waltonwood Providence Here, you can enjoy the perfect balance of independence and support, with more opportunities to connect, fewer daily responsibilities, and a truly carefree lifestyle. And for those who need a helping hand, assistance is always close by.
Limited availability!
Schedule a tour today. 704-246-8670 Warm
P ROVIDENCE
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