The 2-27-2026 Edition of The Charlotte Weekly Union County

Aircraft overturns at Monroe airport

MONROE – A single-engine piston aircraft with three people on board overturned while landing Feb. 23. The aircraft ended up about 200 to 300 feet from the runway at Charlotte-Monroe Executive Airport.

All three occupants were transported to Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries. Airport sta immediately responded and alerted city police and re personnel, who arrived quickly to assist the airport and passengers.

The Charlotte-Monroe Executive Airport runway was closed until Federal Aviation Administration investigators could inspect the crash site.

CHARLOTTE – Culinary Dropout has signed a lease at The Bowl in Ballantyne and will open this fall.

Arizona-based Fox Restaurant Concepts and restaurateur Sam Fox created the brand, which focuses on great food, inventive cocktails and live music. ere is currently a location at 1120 South Tryon St.

e upcoming two-story space will be located at 15220 Bowl St.

On the rst level, a dedicated stage will make space for live music, along with a large indoor bar with a frontrow seat to the open kitchen, a private dining room and patio seating.

e top oor boasts a rooftop patio and indoor-outdoor bar.

The menu will include shareable appetizers like the Soft Pretzels and Provolone Fondue, BBQ Pork Belly Nachos and Whipped Feta & Tahini Dip served with fresh pomegranate, a house-made apricot preserve and grilled ciabatta.

Entrées include the Crispy Chicken Katsu sandwich, piled high with napa slaw and a spicy miso aioli; the Turkey Pastrami served on a freshly baked pretzel bun; and the 36-Hour Pork Ribs.

Culinary Dropout’s beverage program o ers a lineup of local beer, curated wines and handcrafted cocktails.

Signature cocktails include:

• Giddy Up Espresso Martini with vodka, Café Borghetti espresso liqueur, Spanish vanilla and cinnamon-spiced cold brew.

• Abandoned Cadillac with Patrón tequila, Grand Marnier, pomegranate redux and tart lime.

• Full Moon Party with lemongrass-soaked Tanqueray, velvet falernum, Thai basil leaf and English cucumber.

On the web: culinarydropout.com

MONROE – The Monroe Police Department has arrested two people Feb. 23 in connection with a shooting into an occupied home Dec. 10, 2025, in the 400 block of West Sunset Drive.

Police arrested Amaury Andrew Bowman, 18, of Wingate, and Bryce Jy'mir Covington, 19, of Wingate, on charges of discharging a rearm into an occupied dwelling. ey were booked into the Union County Detention Center.

“At the Monroe Police Department, we don’t give up on cases – no matter how long they take,” Police Chief Rhett Bolen said.

“Our detectives remain committed to pursuing every lead, every available resource and ensuring accountability. Time does not diminish our dedication to victims or our responsibility to the community.”

O cers responded to a 911 call on Dec. 10, 2025, reporting gun re into an occupied

CULINARY DROPOUT EXPANDING FOOTPRINT

Monroe Police Department arrests two men in shooting case

residence. O cers determined the home had been struck by at least 10 bullets. Multiple individuals, including young children and older adults, were inside at the time but no one was injured.

Detectives identi ed the suspects after determining that two people opened re on the home from the baseball elds at Sunset Park before eeing the area on foot. Investigators used technology, including license plate readers, to assist in identifying and locating the suspects.

e Union County Sheri 's O ce and the U.S. Marshals Service assisted with the case.

MATTHEWS – The Charlotte Regional Transportation Planning Organization approved funding allocations totaling $25,857,972 for several projects on Feb. 18. is discretionary project funding will support 16 projects across 10 jurisdictions in Iredell, Mecklenburg, and Union counties.

e Town of Matthews was awarded two grants:

• To help realign the intersection of Hargett Road at Sam Newell Road, which will help make driving through the area less awkward, especially as children get dropped o at and picked up from Crown Point Elementary School.

• To add a 10-foot sidepath along a stretch of Monroe Road, from Bojangles to the Family Dollar Distribution Center. is will ll in a sidewalk gap along the busy highway, helping pedestrians better navigate the terrain.

As the Metropolitan Planning Organization for the Charlotte urban area, CRTPO oversees long-range transportation planning and ensures that Federal Highway Administration transportation funds are allocated and spent appropriately. CRTPO allocates federal discretionary funds to help jurisdictions implement transportation projects, programs and studies that may otherwise lack funding.

Projects awarded in Charlotte, Matthews and Union County towns are as follows:

• Centralina Regional Council: Best practices using the Metrolina CommunityViz Model – $44,960

• Charlotte: I-277 Rail Trail Pedestrian Bridge (East Morehead StreetBrooklyn Village Station) – $2,549,395

• Matthews: Hargett Road and Sam Newell Road intersection improvements – $1,019,199

• Matthews: Monroe Road Sidewalk (Gander Cove Lane - Matthews/Charlotte town limits) – $1,042,337

• Mecklenburg County: Irwin Creek Greenway (Crestridge Drive - Yorkmont Road) – $2,553,050

• Monroe: Circle Drive Shared Use Path (Franklin Street - Sunset Drive) – $1,713,287

• Waxhaw: Kensington Dr Improvements (Providence Road - Connells Point Avenue) – $374,175

• Wesley Chapel: New Town Road and Billy Howey Road intersection improvements – $935,427 On the web: crtpo.org

STAY CONNECTED

• Facebook, Twitter and Instagram: @mmhweekly. @ucweekly, @southcltweekly, @weekly waxhaw and @itncweekly

CONTACT US

PUBLISHER

Adrian Garson

adrian@cmgweekly.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

ADVERTISING

Charlotte Conway charlotte@cmgweekly.com

NEWSLETTER

Subscribe to our free email newsletter to stay on top of everything we are publishing in print and online, as well as what we’re sharing across our social media platforms. Visit one of our websites for a link to subscribe.

NEWS BRIEFS

TMSA Charlotte has new hardware to display at the charter school.

TMSA Charlotte wins PAC 6 title

CHARLOTTE – TMSA Charlotte’s middle school boys basketball team has been crowned PAC 6 Conference Champions, nishing 11–1 and capturing the regular-season title.

Head coach Anthony Troxler, along with assistant coaches Allen Robinson and Duane Franklin, led the program’s historic season.

“We are incredibly proud of our student-athletes and coaching sta ,”

Principal Mustafa Aydin said. “ eir hard work, perseverance, and unity exemplify the excellence we strive for at TMSA. is championship re ects both their dedication and the strength of our school community.”

School leaders said recent investments in athletic programming help develop well-rounded students.

24 Foundation launches wellness program

CHARLOTTE – 24 Foundation has launched e HUB, a new retreat-based wellness program for adult cancer survivors and thrivers.

e Spring 2026 HUB Retreat will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 21 at Historic Robertson Homestead, 2871 Oak Park Road, Rock Hill. e one-day program will include yoga, art therapy, nutrition, journaling and a sound bath.

Education Foundation is seeking donations for its one-day free school supplies store for teachers on March 3.

e nonpro t is asking supporters to purchase items from its Amazon and Target wish lists before March 2 to ensure materials arrive on time.

Supplies will be sent directly to the Erase the Need store for teachers to shop at no cost.

Most-needed items include dry erase markers, glue sticks, crayons, colored pencils, disinfectant wipes and tissues.

Matthews Police Department offers citizen academy

MATTHEWS –  e Matthews Police Department is accepting applications for its 2026 Citizen Police Academy.

e program o ers residents an inside look at local law enforcement operations.

e academy will meet from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays, April 7 through May 19. Participants will engage in a variety of presentations and discussions led by police department personnel.

Topics covered during the academy include use of force, crisis negotiations, tra c stops, criminal investigations, crime scene procedures and the judicial system.

Apply by 5 p.m. March 24 at https://www.matthewsnc.gov/pview. aspx?catid=567&id=20908.

Attorney general recognizes TV weatherman

RALEIGH – Attorney General Je Jackson presented Larry Sprinkle with the Attorney General’s Dogwood Award on Feb. 16.

rst Black female police chief as a living history maker and present performances and creative tributes to Black heroes from the past and present.

e celebration brought together families, educators and community leaders to recognize culture and achievement while helping children understand that Black history continues to be made.

Watlington to hold town hall

CHARLOTTE – At-Large Council Member Victoria Watlington will host a town hall focused on neighborhood planning, safety and infrastructure.

The meeting, titled “Stronger Neighborhoods Start Here,” will include discussion of community area plans, safety initiatives and community updates.

Representatives from the Charlotte Department of Transportation, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, Storm Water Services and Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation and Charlotte Planning, Design and Development are expected to attend.

e town hall will be held from 10 a.m. to noon Feb. 28 in the community room at University City Regional Library, 5528 Waters Edge Village Drive.

Polar Plunge seeks thrillseekers

CORNELIUS – Special Olympics North Carolina invites individuals, organizations and businesses to jump into frigid creek waters to raise funds and awareness for inclusion efforts and year-round programs.

for upcoming friendlies in Alicante, Spain.

Hylton was most recently called up to a set of friendlies in Alicante in November 2025. is is Hylton’s third career call-up, with her rst coming in November 2024 with the U-19s.

e camp will span from Feb. 24 to March 6. e Young Lionesses will face Spain on Feb. 28, Netherlands on March 3, and will cap o the friendlies with Mexico on the 6th.

It will help them prepare for the final round of qualifying for the UEFA Women’s Under-19 European Championship, as well as the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup taking place in Poland in September.

Hylton has continued to develop as a young professional this campaign, earning nine appearances as a substitute and totaling 211 minutes.

On the web: CarolinaAscent.com

Union County reports sanitary sewer overflows

MONROE – Overflows within the Union County sanitary sewer system on Feb. 16 resulted in an estimated 13,050 gallons of wastewater entering Crooked Creek.

e sanitary sewer over ow occurred near 4015 Sardis Church Road, Monroe.

The overflows were not of the magnitude to cause immediate danger to the health of residents or the environment, according to Union County. Pipes, pumps and equipment were operating properly prior to the over ows.

e Dogwood Award recognizes people who are improving their fellow North Carolinians’ health, safety and well-being. Sprinkle has been a weather forecaster with WCNC Charlotte for more than 40 years.

The Queen City Chill Polar Plunge will be held Feb. 22 at Ramsey Creek Park at Lake Norman, 18441 Nantz Road. Registration runs from 1 to 2:15 p.m., followed by an opening ceremony at 2:15 p.m. and the plunge at 2:30 p.m.

Sta determined that heavy rain caused the over ows. e over ows were reported to the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality.

Residents and customers may call Union County Water at 704-2964210 for more information.

Participants may register as individuals for $75 or teams of ve for $375. Walk-up registration will be available, and supporters may donate to a participant or team.

“WCNC’s Larry Sprinkle has been a Charlotte TV staple for over 40 years, building trust in his forecasts and his focus on showing the heart of the region’s people,” Jackson said. “Larry represents the best of Charlotte – positive, charming and looking out for others.”

Funds support sports training, competition, leadership opportunities and health services for athletes statewide.

“We created e HUB to help ll the critical gap in mental health and wellness services within survivorship care,” said Katherine Murphy, executive director of 24 Foundation. “Offering this programming and experience allows us to address the whole person by extending support beyond physical treatment and creating space for healing, connection, and community.”

Preschool celebrates Charlotte police chief

CHARLOTTE – Little Angels

On the web: sonc.net/support/ help-to-fundraise/polar-plunges/ queen-city-chill/

Quick Hits •  e Museum of the Waxhaws plans to celebrate the 100th birthday of a World War II veteran during a public ceremony, “A Century of Courage: World War I & World War II,” at 10 a.m. Feb. 28. e tribute will be led by living historians and members of the military community and will honor a lifetime of service and sacri ce. ere will be cake.

e retreat is free, though advance registration is required at https:// 24foundation.org. Meals will be provided. An additional retreat for caregivers is planned later in 2026.

Hylton called up to U-20 friendlies

Education foundation asks for supplies

MONROE –  e Union County

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Habit Burger adds BBQ items

CHARLOTTE – Habit Burger & Grill has launched a Fresh New Menu nationwide with new core items and limited-time o erings.

New core additions include the BBQ Bacon Char and BBQ Chicken Salad. e limited-time Baja Crispy Fish Sandwich features beer-battered wild Alaska cod with cilantro lime slaw and pickled red onions.

The brand is also introducing “Fish Friday,” offering a free side of fries with any Baja Crispy Fish Sandwich on Fridays from Feb. 20 to March 27.

Additional limited-time items include Crispy Corn Tots. e Blue Wave Shake, with pineapple-coconut avor, joins the permanent menu.

College launches career initiative

MONROE – South Piedmont Community College is introducing a new employer engagement initiative to connect students and job seekers with regional career opportunities.

The college will host Take Off ursdays, an on-campus recruiting experience that brings together students, job seekers and employers to network, explore industries and discuss employment pathways.

Take O ursdays will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. March 19 and May 8 at South Piedmont’s

Old Charlotte Highway Campus, Building A Conference Center. Events will continue throughout the year, with additional recruiting events scheduled for the Anson Campus beginning fall 2026. Email Debbie Normandia-Berrios, career services director, at dnormandia-berrios@spcc.edu for details.

Guthrie’s opens in Monroe MONROE – Guthrie’s recently opened a new chicken restaurant at 2200 W. Roosevelt Blvd. Guthrie’s menu centers on a signature combination of golden fried chicken fingers, crinkle-cut fries, coleslaw and Texas toast, all paired with the brand’s signature sauce. The company was founded in 1965 and really came into its own by creating a chicken- nger only restaurant in 1982. It operates more than 70 locations across 12-plus states. On the web: guthrieschicken.com.

Southern Roots owners decide to close MONROE – Owners of Southern Roots Bar and Grill announced Feb. 20 that they decided to close.

“It has been more than a restaurant to us – it felt like an extension of our home,” they shared on the venue’s Facebook page. “Pops expresses his love through food, and sharing that with you has been one of the greatest blessings of our lives. We’ve had the joy of seeing babies born, children grow up, graduations celebrated, and weddings take place. Several precious souls we lost along the way, but we carry them in our hearts!”

The Southern Roots brand had been operating at 350 E. Franklin Street since 2019. Previous restaurant concepts at this location included Buddy’s Point and e Roasted Bone.

Preschool was scheduled to host its annual Black History Month Celebration on Feb. 23 featuring a tribute to Charlotte Police Chief Estella Patterson. Students were to honor the city’s

Renewal Cares initiative

wins award

CHARLOTTE – Renewal by Andersen of Greater Charlotte and Charleston-Hilton Head received the national Network Community Leadership Award for its “Renewal Cares for the Carolinas” initiative.

e honor follows a record-breaking 2025 with $130,000 donated, bringing the a liate’s lifetime community investment to more than $500,000.

“ e Renewal Cares initiative is our way of being a reliable partner in our community, just as we are for our customers’ homes,” said Sharon Sullivan, co-owner of Renewal by Andersen of Greater Charlotte.

e a liate also earned two Diamond Awards: Service Team of the Year and Green Diamond Elite. In 2025, its employee-led “Gratitude Giveaway” provided $500 donations to 30 employee-nominated nonpro ts.

Poettker Construction named

Top Performer CHARLOTTE – Poettker Construction earned a spot on Associated Builders and Contractors’ 2026 Top Performers List, recognizing excellence in health and safety, quality and project performance.

e company achieved Platinum status in ABC’s STEP Health and Safety Management System and completed more than 400,000 work hours without a lost-time incident in 2025, along with 5,120 hours of safety training.

“Safety is a core value and at the heart of everything we do at Poettker,” said Keith Poettker, chairman and CEO of Poettker Construction.

CHARLOTTE – The England Football Association announced Feb. 19 that B Hylton has been named to the England U-20 squad

“This recognition reflects the discipline, care, and accountability our teams bring to every task they complete.”

Poettker also ranked 11th nationally among retail contractors and 61st among general contractors.

Twin Peaks adds drinks to menu

DALLAS – Twin Hospitality Group has introduced new cocktails, shots and expanded zero-proof options to the bar menu at Twin Peaks.

New cocktails include the Jameson Orange Crush, Jack Blackberry Lemonade, Lalo Blood Orange and Spicy White Peach Paloma, plus Ole Smoky Salty Watermelon, Tito’s White Tea and the Blackberry Vegas Bomb shots.

Twin Peaks continues to expand its zero-proof o erings, welcoming Michelob ULTRA Zero. e refresh also adds the Strawberry Pineapple Fizz, a non-alcoholic mocktail.

On the web: twinpeaksrestaurant.com

Metro Diner gives fish fry a twist

CHARLOTTE – Metro Diner is o ering a seasonal twist on the classic sh fry menu through April 5.

Participating locations are o ering three limited-time dishes:

• Crab Cake Benedicts with housemade crab cakes and two poached eggs on an English mu n topped with Hollandaise and served with hashbrowns.

• Fish & Chips features crispy beer-battered white sh served with tartar sauce, coleslaw and seasoned fries.

•  e Teriyaki Salmon Bowl includes grilled salmon drizzled with sweet teriyaki and topped with scallions, served over seasoned white rice with shredded carrots, red cabbage, corn, green peppers and onion.

• Charlotte-Mecklenburg Storm Water Services is organizing its rst Stormwater Run-O 5K on March 21 at Latta Nature Preserve. Find more information at facebook.com/ StormWaterCM.

Scooter’s Coffee holds giveaway after milestone CHARLOTTE – Scooter’s Coffee is celebrating the opening of its 900th location in Paris, Tennessee with a giveaway. Customers could visit any Scooter’s Co ee location after 11 a.m. Feb. 24 to receive a free limited-edition reusable cup commemorating the milestone.

e promotion coincides with the brand’s new “Licious Lineup,” featuring the Fudgelicious, Strawberry Shortcake Latte and Honeycomb Latte.

Beginning Feb. 19, seasonal lavender drinks will also be available, including Lavender White Mocha, Berry Lavender Matcha and Lavender Ice Berry Red Bull Infusion. On the web: scootersco ee.com

NC IDEA makes big investment

DURHAM – NC IDEA has executed a Strategic Investor Relationship Agreement to become the anchor investor in the Triangle Tweener Fund with a $4 million, ve-year limited partner investment.

The fund will rebrand as NC Tweener Fund, Powered by NC IDEA, and expand its statewide investment focus. It will continue co-investing about $50,000 per early-stage company using its existing decision matrix. NC IDEA will have no influence on investment decisions.

“ is anchor investment directly advances NC IDEA’s charitable purpose to strengthen the economy of North Carolina through entrepreneurship,” said om Ruhe, president and CEO of NC IDEA.

Monroe police pull over 12-year-old driver on way to school

MONROE – An officer with the Monroe Police Department pulled over an SUV around 8:32 a.m. Feb. 18 to find a 12-year-old driver.

e o cer pulled the SUV over because the driver was behaving suspiciously and the vehicle had a ctitious license plate, according to police.

e child told the o cer he missed his school bus and decided to drive himself to school, police said.

The school resource officer assigned to the child’s school was contacted and transported him to school without further incident.

Police referred the incident to the Department of Social Services as required by state law.

Law enforcement o cers are required to notify the Department of Social Services

City of Monroe warns of fraudulent emails

MONROE – The City of Monroe is alerting residents, property owners and business applicants to an ongoing scam involving fraudulent emails and fake invoices impersonating the city’s planning and development department. While the details of the messages have varied, each email requested payment by wire transfer to process or advance a permit, application or planning request. The city says these messages are not legitimate.

In several cases, the fraudulent messages used o cial city branding, referenced real properties or active applications and included itemized “review” or “approval” fees to appear credible. e emails directed recipients to request wire transfer instructions and submit payment con rmation before their application could proceed.

e fraudulent messages:

• Use the city logo, o cial mailing address and real city sta names.

• Reference real property addresses.

• Include detailed itemized fee breakdowns.

• Instruct recipients to request wire transfer instructions.

• Originate from non-city email addresses, including Gmail or other public domains.

e City of Monroe says it will never request payment by wire transfer via email. O cial city correspondence will only come from an email address ending in @monroenc.org.

Applicants and business owners are urged to verify any payment request directly with the city before taking action. e City of Monroe says people involved in active planning or permitting processes who receive a suspicious message should:

• Not respond to the email.

• Not send payment.

• Contact Monroe Planning & Development directly at 704-282-4569.

• Report the incident to the Monroe Police Department.

e city has published an o cial Scam Awareness page at monroenc.org/653/Scam-Awareness with more details on these speci c messages and what community members should look out for.

City o cials are working with law enforcement and internal departments to monitor the situation and prevent further attempts.

when they have cause to suspect that a juvenile may be abused, neglected, dependent or exposed to environments with domestic violence, human tra cking or conditions injurious to their welfare.

ese reports ensure child welfare professionals can assess the situation and provide appropriate services or interventions when necessary.

e Monroe Police Department said it

was working with the family and community partners to ensure the child’s safety and well-being.

Police remind parents to secure vehicle keys and ensure children do not have access to vehicles without supervision. O cials say allowing an unlicensed juvenile to operate a motor vehicle creates signi cant safety risks to the child and the public.

Suspect couldn’t stay hidden from Monroe police officers

MONROE – The Monroe Police

Department arrested a suspect

Feb. 19 after an early break-in.

Officers responded to a breaking and entering at about 6:53 a.m. at Carolina Cat on Morgan Mill Road.

ey determined the suspect had broken into the business and was using it as a hiding place following an incident the previous night.

Police said the suspect ran from the building when employees arrived to start their workday and he took several

items, including a pair of shoes, a jacket and a Wi-Fi box.

Police identi ed the suspect as Brandon Tyler Campbell, 30, of Monroe, and obtained warrants.

O cers were called to a suspicious person near Windsor Windows on Sutherland Avenue. A patrol lieutenant spotted Campbell attempting to hide near a tarp. When he realized officers were nearby, Campbell ran again, o cials said.

Another o cer was able to launch

a drone, which kept a clear view from above as Campbell tried other hiding spots, including a large hole near a concrete plant and underneath a large storage container. e drone operator maintained sight of him until K9 Narco arrived.

Police arrested Campbell on charges of felony habitual breaking and entering; larceny after breaking and entering; first-degree trespassing; simple assault; and resist, delay and obstruct.

South Piedmont offering veterans programming in Anson County

MONROE – South Piedmont

Community College will soon offer Anson County veterans a chance to enjoy coffee, camaraderie and doughnuts.

For several years now, South Piedmont has hosted the Union County Veterans Co ee House, which regularly draws dozens of former servicemembers together for the chance to connect with one another, learn about local resources and spend time with others who understand the veteran experience.

In March, e orts will be expanded to include the Anson County Veterans Co ee House.

e Anson County Veterans Co ee House will take place from 9 to 11 a.m. March 18, April 15 and May 20 at the Lockhart-Taylor Center, 514 N.

Washington St., Wadesboro.

“ e whole premise is to get veterans together with other veterans,” said organizer Al Johnstone, who served in the Air Force. “A lot of people say, ‘thank you for your service,’ but not many people really understand the veteran’s psyche. Veterans will open up with other veterans. We like to say this is a chance for co ee, camaraderie and doughnuts. It’s a simple gathering of people who have something special in common, nothing fancy, but to those who attend, it’s a meaningful way to spend a morning.”

Johnstone said the Anson County Veterans Co ee House will take a similar format to the Union County version. Veterans will gather for co ee and a light breakfast, occasionally hear from a speaker about a topic of interest

to veterans, and enjoy conversation.

As it does in Union County, South Piedmont Community College is providing the space for the Anson County Veterans Co ee House at no charge.

“It is a privilege to provide a welcoming space where our veterans can come together, share their stories and support one another,” said Michelle Broke, chief nancial o cer at South Piedmont. “ ey have given so much in service to our country, and opening our doors to them is a small but meaningful way to show our gratitude and respect.”

Additional dates may be added based on the turnout of the March, April and May meetings. Email Johnstone at ajohnwxw50@gmail.com for more information.

Matthews mayor gives remarks on I-77 South project

MATTHEWS – Matthews Mayor John Higdon weighed in on the I-77 South Express Lanes project Feb. 18 during the Charlotte Regional Transportation Planning Organization meeting.

e N.C. Department of Transportation announced earlier this month that it was moving forward with an elevated design option due to decreased neighborhood and environmental impacts.

Sustain Charlotte was critical of NCDOT’s decision, saying that an “elevated freeway ampli es noise, pollution, shadow and division.”

e project was brought up during the public comment and member comment portions of the Feb. 18 CRTPO meeting. Here’s what Higdon had to say:

I want to address the elephant in the room, and I want to preface my comments by saying that I really appreciate North Carolina DOT.

ey've been an excellent partner to my town of Matthews, and the work they've done, particularly in the western part of the state, is very admirable and commendable of late.

In my town of Matthews, when a zoning petitioner comes forward and says, “We want to build a neighborhood,” or “We want to build a commercial establishment,” they typically will give their plan and generalities, but they'll come back with elevations that our board also approves at a later date. And I think that's the same way it's done in most places.

And in this case, we didn't see the elevations of this elevated highway.

In my day job, I frequently used to go to Los Angeles quite a bit, and I visited a laboratory there that was right next to an elevated highway, and it was so loud outside that you literally had to scream to hear somebody a few feet away from you. So, very loud. is afternoon, I googled what major cities

in the United States are building elevated highways or are planning to build them, and I found none. I did nd that in the last 10 years, Milwaukee; Seattle; Rochester, New York; San Francisco; Vancouver, British Columbia; and a number of other cities have taken down elevated highways that they said were a mistake to build in the rst place.

Also, the cities of Syracuse, New Orleans, Detroit and Dallas are considering taking down elevated highways that they say were a mistake to build in the rst place.

Where are elevated highways being built?

ey're being built in Pakistan, Bangladesh, New Delhi, Sri Lanka – mostly third world countries that are very poor and have zero land, and they can only build the roads up because there's no other place to put them, and it's the most economical way to build. I know that Charlotte likes to consider itself a world-class, rst-class city, and so I question

why we would build an elevated highway. I think this project is very much important. I was on I-77 this weekend, and the tra c is horrendous on a Sunday afternoon at 2 o’clock in the afternoon. So, we need to do something, but I think we need to reconsider our options.

And I certainly think this board should – I'm not an attorney – but I think this board, we are the elected o cials. We should have the ability to pause and take a breath and consider other options.

We do have the transit tax that's going to bring in billions of dollars. And perhaps there could be a way to do a cover and cap or something like that in this area that would be less impactful.

But I don't think we should build an elevated highway in Charlotte right through the middle of a historically Black neighborhood.

Federal funding trims shift burdens to states, counties, cities

By David Beasley Contributor

( e Center Square) – North Car-

olina legislators who met Feb. 18 to discuss cutting property taxes were hit with a grim report on the future of federal funding for states and local governments that could actually drive up costs for many programs, making tax cuts more di cult.

Whitney Afonzo, a professor in the University of North Carolina’s School of Government, provided an update on the changing funding landscape between state and local governments and Washington. She called the changes “cost shifting.”

One is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, commonly called SNAP or food stamps. Another is Medicaid, the state-federal health insurance program for low-income residents. Even the Federal Emergency Management Agency, which oversees

disaster recovery, may be included.

Another cost shift is in the area of “digital accessibility,” a federal requirement making documents available online.

“It sounds great,” Afonzo said. “We are not grandfathering it in, though. We are seeing a period when we are having to go back and make a lot of our documents accessible.”

Across the country, the cost for more than 3,000 counties and parishes could eclipse $1 billion. For cities collectively, it could reach $2 billion.

Recurring costs each year could be $80 million for counties and $250 million for cities, Afonzo told members of the North Carolina House Select Committee on Property Tax Reduction and Reform.

“Budget documents at the local level are often 100 pages long,” she said. “They are estimating about $7 per page for a portable document format to make it digitally accessible.”

e costs will add up quickly and the penalties for not complying are also steep, said Afonzo.

ere are also new federal agency requirements such as lead-pipe replacement, which could cost $90 billion nationally, the professor said. Clearing up so-called “forever chemicals” could also cost billions, she added.

e federal government has reduced the money it gives states for educational programs.

“For example, about $325 million was either cancelled or withheld from North Carolina school systems last year alone, including $90 million in teacher training grants and mental health grants, $25 million were cancelled last year as well,” Afonzo said.

Much of the federal funding for cybersecurity grants for local governments has also been pulled, she added.

e federal government had been paying half the cost of administering the SNAP program, with the remainder

paid by state and local governments. Now, the state and local government share has increased to 75%. In North Carolina, that change could cost counties as much as $70 million annually.

The ever increasing cost of government, including property taxes, is starting to pressure young families, said State Rep. Je Zenger, a Republican from Forsyth County.

“ ings have gotten so costly that most families are two-income families,” the legislator said. “They are taking care of their kids, putting them through school, coaching soccer and basketball. Every regulation, every little tax, every little thing keeps adding up and adding up. ey are getting squeezed.”

Not all of those regulations and fees are necessary, he said.

“Maybe I’m just a little quirky, but when I think about e ciently operated entities, government doesn’t come to mind.”

Modern steakhouse Guard and Grace opening this fall

CHARLOTTE

– Guard and Grace will open its first North Carolina steakhouse in Charlotte this fall on the 10th floor of The Vivian at Queensbridge Collective, 1111 South Tryon St.

e location will showcase a blend of re ned indoor and outdoor dining. e 10,224-squarefoot space will have a full-service bar, multiple private dining rooms and a 2,000-square-foot outdoor terrace with skyline views.

“We’re invigorated by the early response to Guard and Grace in Charlotte,” said Troy Guard, owner and executive chef of TAG Restaurant Group. “ e location is buzzing with activity and energy, matching the vibe of our other Guard and Grace locations. We can’t wait to open our doors, turn up the music and welcome everyone into our space.”

e menu will feature prime beef selections, fresh seafood, house-made charcuterie and

seasonal vegetarian dishes, paired with an extensive wine collection and cocktail program.

Guard is collaborating with notable Charlotte chefs to bring a curated taste of his menu to the Queen City in advance of the opening:

• Customshop + Guard and Grace: Chef Andres Kaifer welcomes Chef Guard into his Elizabeth spot on March 25 for a night of dishes that celebrate the culinary minds of two celebrated chefs as part of the citywide Savor Charlotte initiative. Reservations are available through OpenTable.

• Community Matters Cafe + Guard and Grace: Chef Chayil Johnson welcomes Chef Guard on April 14 for a night of friends and fellowship over food. Ticketing details to come. Guard and Grace’s agship steakhouse debuted in Denver in 2014, followed by Houston in 2019.

The Story of Mi Cariño serves Mexican, Latin American food

CHARLOTTE – B-Side Group recently opened The Story of Mi Cariño, a chef-driven gastro-cantina and mezcalería at 1440 S. Tryon St.

Mi Cariño, which means “my darling” in Spanish, is inspired by a love for Mexican and Left Coast Latino culture, mezcal, movies and music.

“Mi Cariño is our culinary homage to the avor and complexity of Mexican and West Coast Latino cuisine and mezcal culture,” said Ankoor Patel, B-Side Group partner. “We wanted to create a place that feels immersive and inviting, somewhere guests can linger, explore and feel part of the story.”

Executive Chef Hector González-Mora and B-Side Culinary Director Vince Giancarlo created a menu.

Highlights include:

• Camarones Kora: A traditional Nayarita recipe, seared jumbo shrimp in a butter sauce infused with citrus, chile and garlic, and served with coconut rice.

• 14-ounce Akaushi Wagyu Ribeye: Seared and smoked wagyu ribeye, served over miso hominy porridge, ponzu butter sauce, charred asparagus and cambray, served with a side-car of homemade salsas, sauces and pickles, and four housemade sourdough our tortillas.

• Kan-Kan Carnitas: Sous vide

in Mexican tea and ash fried, chicharron chile crunch, mezcal-infused caramel, served with a side-car of homemade salsas, sauces and pickles, and four housemade sourdough our tortillas.

“Every dish starts with tradition, but we’re not afraid to play and evolve,” González-Mora said.

“ e food feels vibrant and alive, just like the space itself.”

Designed by Southwick Architecture + Interiors, the 2,350-square-foot space seats about 85 guests and shifts from light-filled and welcoming to an intimate, glowing cantina by night.

“Our goal was to make the bar feel like a destination in itself,” said Kamal Patel, B-Side Group partner. “ e atmosphere, food and drink are all designed to invite you to stay awhile.”

B-Side Beverage Director Henry Schmulling oversees the agave spirits program.

Launching with 225-plus agave-based spirits, the collection spans mezcal, tequila, raicilla, bacanora and agave-adjacent spirits. e beverage program also features traditional and house-made non-alcoholic o erings.

“We’re building a cocktail list that’s both adventurous and approachable,” Schmulling said. “It’s all about balance, tradition and a sense of discovery.”

‘Top Chef’ will be chock-full of Charlotte flavor

UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. – Charlotte will be a main dish in the upcoming season of “Top Chef.”

Bravo’s cooking competition will be centered in Charlotte with several episodes in Greenville, S.C. e series will feature 15 rising star chefs, including Charlotte’s Brittany Cochran, as they compete for the title of “Top Chef.”

e chefs must showcase their culinary expertise, originality and endurance as they compete in pressure- lled challenges showcasing the regional history, cultural avors and agricultural bounty across the Carolinas.

DINING SCORES

e winner will take home a prize package that includes $250,000 and a feature in Food & Wine magazine.

e season kicks o at Charlotte Motor Speedway, featuring NASCAR legends Jimmie Johnson and Kyle Busch.

e chefs will draw on their own culinary roots with North Carolina’s state vegetable (sweet potatoes), craft a progressively spicier menu featuring some of the world’s hottest peppers, go head-to-head in a whole hog BBQ cookout and test their ingenuity by creating a dish featuring dehydrated components.

• Poppyseeds Bagels, 1311 Chestnut Lane – 95

Mint Hill

• New Asian Cuisine, 7114 Brighton Park Drive – 95.5

• Panzu Brewery, 7251 Mat-

thews-Mint Hill Road – 95.5

• Papa John’s, 7032 Brighton Park Drive – 96.5

Monroe

• A Cause for Tea, 418 E. Franklin St. – 100 • Antojitos Perrones La China, 2300 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 94.5

• Arby’s, 2101 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 99.5 • Captain D’s, 1301 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 96.5

• Carniceria Morelos, 1510 Miller St. – 91 • D’ Reyes Delicias, 723 N. Charlotte Ave. – 99.5 • Duke’s Grill, 1114 Concord Ave. – 100 • Food Lion (deli), 2118 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 93.5 • Food Lion (meat market), 2118 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 99 • Food Lion (produce), 2118 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 99.5

• Gus’ Family Restaurant, 1627 Walkup Ave. – 96.5 • Guthrie’s Chicken, 2200 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 94 • Habibi’s Deli, 531 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 95.5 • Johnny Tomatoes, 5250 Old Charlotte Hwy. – 97.5 • Little Country Kitchen, 2526 Old Charlotte Hwy. – 96 • Monterrey Restaurante Mexicano, 1006 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 99 • Napoli Italian Restaurant, 2263 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 96 • Panaderia El Quetzal, 1900 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 90.5

• Stella-Rye, 5250 Old Charlotte Hwy. – 98.5

• Takara Steakhouse and Sushi Bar, 2515 W. Roosevelt Blvd.

– 92 • Terra Bella, 5306 Secrest Shortcut Road – 91 • The Smoke Pit, 1507 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 94

• Union Park, 1316 Patterson St. – 99 • Tienda y Taqueria Romeros, 405 N. Sutherland Ave. – 91.5

Pineville

• Harper’s Cafe, 9101 Pineville-Matthews Road – 97

• Margaux’s Wine, Pizza, & Market, 316 Main St. – 99

• Sam’s Club Cafe, 11425 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 97

Kabob-Je Rotisserie & Grille, 2233 Matthews Township Pkwy. – 98 • Lanzhou Hand-Pulled Noodles, 929 Park Center Drive – 96 • Qdoba Mexican Eats, 2233 Matthews Township Pkwy. – 96 • Umami Sushi & Grill, 200 E. Matthews St. – 97

• White Duck Taco Shop, 131 E. John St. – 97.5

Matthews (Union County)

• Emerald Lake, 9750 Tournament Drive – 98.5

• Harris Teeter (deli), 7800 Stevens Mill Road – 97 • Harris Teeter (meats/seafood), 7800 Stevens Mill Road – 97.5

• Harris Teeter (produce), 7800 Stevens Mill Road – 98.5

• Joy Bakery and Catering, 3016 Twelve Mile Creek Road – 95

Stallings

• Pupuseria La Pasadita, 4432 Potter Road – 100

Waxhaw

• Dunkin’ Donuts, 8121 Kensington Drive – 98.5

• Greco Fresh Grille, 201 W. South Main St. – 97.5

• Provisions Waxhaw, 107 W. South Main St. – 100

• Stacks Kitchen, 1315 N. Broome St. – 95

• Vera’s Kitchen, 203 N. Broome St. – 98.5

Wingate

• El Palenque, 3702 U.S. 74

E. – 96

• Tokyo Bistro, 3921 U.S. 74 E. – 98

CLASSIFIEDS

Reinhausen Manufacturing, Inc., Charlotte, NC. Area Sales Engineer resp. for turnover of respective product spectrum in his/her designated countries/regions, paying attn. to strategic guidelines & business sustainability. Strategic tasks including realization of MR’s sales strategy in designated countries/regions. Improving customer acceptance of & preference for MR products in regard to tech. specifications. Bachelor’s degree in electrical, mechanical or rltd engin. field & 3 yrs of industry exp. in energy tech., ideally in control systems, substation design, as a commissioning eng. or comparable position. Business admin. knowledge req’d. 50% travel to domestic client sites. Resume to HR@us.reinhausen.com & include position title in subject line.

IT KeySource,Inc seeks;

Software Developer w/Masters in Comp Sci, Engg(any),Tech, Mgmt. Info. Sys./Sec. or rltd to Dsgn, dev, impl, maintain & test buss functions & web apps using a variety of languages, tools, methods & techs. Dev, create & modify general comp applications s/w or specialized utility programs. Analyze user needs and dev s/w solutions. Dsgn s/w or customize s/w for client use with the aim of optimizing operational efficiency. Programmer Analyst w/bachelors in Comp Sci, Engg(any),Tech, Mgmt Info sys/Sec or rltd to supp full life cycle dvlpmt including reqmts analysis, dsgn, prototype ,code, unit test, integration & test. Involve in dsgn, dvlpmt, impl, maintenance s/w dvlpmt work. Work with the tech team & interfaces directly w/external vendors to define data reqmts & resolve data integrity; prepare proj status reps, & make formal presentations to mgmt as necessary.

Work location: Charlotte,NC w/ req’d travel & work from vari unanticipated client worksites throughout USA. Mail resumes to 11220 Elm Lane, Suite #204, Charlotte, NC-28277 (OR) e-mail: hrteam@itkeysource.com

Charlotte-raised comedian Fortune Feimster brings some comic relief by putting the chefs’ improv skills to the test, while “Southern Charm” stars Madison LeCroy and Craig Conover challenge the chefs to put their own spin on Southern comfort dishes.

Actress Melissa Benoist joins a regal celebration in honor of Queen Charlotte’s birthday and the 20th anniversary of “Top Chef,” and YouTuber Liza Koshy tasks the chefs to think outside the box with their presentation.

e chefs visit Asheville to witness the community’s resilience and rebuilding e orts

LIVE MUSIC

Juanes bringing world tour to Charlotte

CHARLOTTE – Latin music icon Juanes announced his Juanes World Tour 2026 will feature more than 50 global dates and a 29-date run across the United States, including a concert Sept. 10 at Ovens Auditorium in Charlotte.

Juanes has more than 20 billion career music streams, 29 combined Grammy and Latin Grammy awards and 17 #1 songs over the course of his career.

Promoted by Live Nation, his tour will be lled with beloved classic hits and live debuts of the new music from his upcoming “JuanesTeban” album. Tickets went on sale Feb. 20 at Juanes.net.

Feb. 27

• Amos’ Southend: Jed Harrelson

• Grapes Bistro & Wine Bar: Carrie Ann

• The Lodge: Shannon Lee & Christina Raine

• Mary O’Neill’s: Matthew Ablan

• Mia Famiglia Restaurant: Jack Fontana

• Middle C Jazz: Chris Botti

• Moochies Tavern: Gin N’ Sonic

• Neighborhood eatre: Broadway Rave

• Spectrum Center: New Edition

• Stooges Pub & Grub: Kids in America

•  e Club House Bites and Booze: e Gambler’s Band Trio

•  e Fillmore: Dexter and e Moonrocks

•  e Underground: Jack Burns

Feb. 28

• Amos’ Southend: Stop Light Observations

• Evening Muse: DJ Swiftie

• Middle C Jazz: Chris Botti

• Moochies Tavern: Confetti Cannon

• Neighborhood eatre: Josh Levi

• Shep’s Bar & Grill: Jaxx & Jacks

• Stooges Pub & Grub: Deacon Black

•  e Courthouse Self-Pour Beer & Wine:

Lucas James

•  e Fillmore: Jesse Welles

•  e Lodge: Two Doods

•  e Trail House: Steve Clark Band

•  e Underground: Gasolina Party

• Visulite eatre: Brightside

in the wake of Hurricane Helene. ey’ll return to Charlotte to host a fundraiser spotlighting Appalachian ingredients.

Want to watch?

e show premieres at 9 p.m. March 9 on Bravo. Get early access to the premiere March 3 on Peacock, Bravo’s YouTube channel and VOD. Beginning March 16, the series will move to its regular timeslot at 9:30 p.m. with episodes available the next day on Peacock. Beginning March 30, Bravo’s digital companion series “Top Chef: Last Chance Kitchen” returns for its 15th season.

March 1

• Middle C Jazz: Chris Botti

• Neighborhood eatre: Jack Lawrence & Friends

• Peddlers Paradise Bartique: Matthew Ablan

March 3

• Neighborhood eatre: Ha way

•  e Fillmore: Chicks in the O ce

•  e Underground: Rich Brian

March 4

• Middle C Jazz: Albert Castiglia

• Neighborhood eatre: Lotus

•  e Club House Bites and Booze: Scoot Pittman

March 5

• Middle C Jazz: Jarrod Lawson

• Neighborhood eatre: Robert Jon & e Wreck

Charlotte

• Amos’ Southend: 1423 S. Tryon St.

• Evening Muse: 3227 N. Davidson St.

• Middle C Jazz: 300 S. Brevard St.

• Neighborhood eatre: 511 E. 36th St.

•  e Club House Bites and Booze: 16715 Orchard Stone Run •  e Fillmore: 820 Hamilton St.

e Lodge: 7725 Colony Road

e Underground: 820 Hamilton St. • Visulite eatre: 1615 Elizabeth Ave.

Indian Trail

• Grapes Bistro & Wine Bar: 6461 Old Monroe Road

• Mia Famiglia Restaurant: 7870 Idlewild Road

•  e Trail House: 6751 Old Monroe Road

Mint Hill

• Shep’s Bar & Grill: 8111 Fairview Road

• Stooges Pub & Grub: 13230 Albemarle Road

Monroe

• Peddlers Paradise Bartique: 105 W. Franklin St. •  e Courthouse Self-Pour Beer & Wine: 101 W. Franklin St.

Stallings • Moochies Tavern: 15060 Idlewild Road Waxhaw • Mary O’Neill’s: 116 W. North Main St.

It was a bad way to interview for a great job

By Tony Marciano Contributor

I started my career in nonpro t work as an o cer in e Salvation Army. It is a great organization where I learned so much about nonpro t leadership. My state commander carefully explained the relationship that exists between the board and the executive director. I learned so much about the important interworkings with the board.

I took a four-year break from nonpro t leadership. When I returned to nonpro t management, I secured a position as executive director of a stand-alone organization. I took my leadership style from e Salvation Army and tried to implement it in this nonpro t. While the Army allowed me to work from the position of being a leader executive director with a policy board, this nonpro t wanted me to be a follower executive director while they served as an operations board. We clashed – a lot.

ere is a di erence between a national charity and a stand-alone nonpro t. A national charity provides board training for its members. The stand-alone nonprofit does not have formal training for its board members. While their board members bring their best intentions, they also bring their experience at other nonpro ts or perhaps no board experience. ey can easily misunderstand their role to the population the agency serves, the executive director and other board members.

March 1, 1996, at 9 a.m. was a signicant moment in my life. I was invited by the search committee of Charlotte Rescue Mission to interview for the position of executive director.

I sat at the head of the long board table while each member of the search committee introduced themselves. en, they asked me to tell them about myself. is is what I said.

“ e Saab car company says that most car accidents happen in the showroom. People

buy the wrong car for all the wrong reasons.”

I took a breath and continued, “Most employment accidents happen in the interview. People fall in love with the wrong person for all the wrong reasons.” I paused and said, “I’m looking for a policy board. If you are an operations board, no o ense, but this interview is over.” ey said they were a policy board.

Was it rude of me? I knew what I had in the nonpro t where I was employed. It wasn’t working. I didn’t want to move into the same situation. I knew what I wanted. I was clear in communicating that. It would be a deal-breaker if they said they were an operations board.

During my time at the Charlotte Rescue Mission, many of the residents told me they knew what they didn’t want. ey didn’t want the abuse. ey didn’t want the disrespect. ey didn’t want the cheating. I found that they could quickly and clearly articulate what they did not want in their life. en I asked them what they did want in their life. Each time, the room went silent. ey knew what they didn’t want, but they didn’t know what they did want.

When I turned 60, I wrote myself a letter as if I were 85 years old. I wrote the letter looking back over the 25 years of my life from years down the road. I didn’t want to turn 85 and regret I didn’t achieve what I could have over those years. It gave me a chance to lay out a plan rather than aimlessly drift through 25 years of living.

What do you want? What do you want this chapter of your life to look like? Ten years down the road, what do you want these next 10 years to look like? What do you want to have accomplished with your life?

I’ll be back soon. Until then, live well, my friend.

The Rev. Tony Marciano is available to speak to your group. DM him on Facebook.