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CHARLOTTE, N.C. — It’s been two months since U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agents were in Charlotte and other North Carolina towns and cities, and a Charlotte laundromat owner says his business remains down.
What You Need To Know
It’s been two months since U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agents conducted operations in Charlotte, Raleigh and Durham
The immigrant community saw huge impacts in Charlotte with everything from low school attendance to businesses temporarily closing
A laundromat owner says the return to normalcy for his business is slow.
Weekends are the busiest time at North Tryon Laundromat, but owner David Rebolloso says even for a weekday things are slow right now.
“We used to be very busy, but as you can see right now, there’s nobody in here,” Rebolloso said. “As you can see, the parking lot, it’s, it’s pretty much empty, but we get so busy that, people could not park in here.”
It’s been two months since Customs and Border Patrol’s Charlotte’s Web Operation came through the city and right in front of Rebolloso’s business.
Since then, his bottom line is still being impacted.
“It’s down half, at least 50%,” Rebolloso said. “I’m making the same amount with two locations what I used to make in one location now making a pretty much the same, but with two locations.”
He opened his first laundromat location nine years ago.
CharlotteEAST, a nonprofit that serves the east side of Charlotte, says there are roughly 420 independently owned businesses in their area, and “nearly all were impacted in one way or another from CBP.”
In a survey with 90 responses, there was “an average daily loss of $2,500 in revenue.”
They say no businesses in the area they serve shut down during the Border Patrol’s operations, but they estimate that nearly half closed temporarily. They say “business is slowly picking back up to pre-CBP pace but still lower than 2024.”
Rebolloso says knowing customers that got picked up by Border Patrol and seeing what his community went through two months ago, things still aren’t the same.
“I’m hoping that things will stabilize, and maybe it’ll pick up a little bit, you know, but it’ll never go back to the way things used to be,” Rebolloso said.
He says he hates to be pessimistic, but calls what he sees happening sad.
“There’s optimism as an immigrant, as a migrant, there’s an optimism that things are going to get better if we work hard, you know, and if we strive and do what we’re supposed to do, life is going to get better. You know, the country’s getting better. We’re building the country, you know, and, and then we reached this point,” Rebolloso said.
Rebolloso says he and many others in the Latino community keep up with Spanish news where they’re consistently updated with immigration stories across the country, like in Minneapolis.
“This young lady that was killed a few days ago, I don’t why. God works in mysterious ways. I think her name really is going to carry on for a very long time. Do good, be good. Do good, be good. That’s all we can do,” Rebolloso said.
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Before joining Lucasfilm, Kennedy was one of Hollywood’s most successful producers ever. In 1981, she co-founded Amblin Entertainment with Steven Spielberg and her eventual husband, Frank Marshall. She produced “E.T.,” “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom,” “Jurassic Park” and the “Back to the Future” trilogy.
At Lucasfilm, her biggest hit came at the start, with 2015’s “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.” The J.J. Abrams-directed film grossed more than $2 billion worldwide. But the subsequent installment, Rian Johnson’s “The Last Jedi” (2017), was bitterly divisive. The third film, Abrams’ “The Rise of Skywalker” (2019), was widely panned by critics and fans, alike.
After “The Rise of Skywalker,” “Star Wars” went dark on the big screen despite a litany of announced projects. The dry spell is set to be broken in May by Jon Favreau’s “The Mandalorian & Grogu.” The intervening years have been marked by streaming successes in “The Mandalorian” and “Andor,” but the future of “Star Wars” has felt increasingly uncertain.
Struggles over tone and vision have been frequent. The 2018 Han Solo spinoff “Solo: A Star Wars Story” saw its directors, Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, fired during production and replaced by Ron Howard. Most found the mixed-and-matched result blandly disappointing.
More recently, Adam Driver, who played Kylo Ren/Ben Solo in the most recent “Star Wars” trilogy,” divulged to The Associated Press last year that he and Steven Soderbergh had developed a Ben Solo film with Kennedy and Lucasfilm’s support for two years before Disney chief Bob Iger nixed it. Fans were so irate that a plane was flown over Disney’s Burbank studios with a banner reading “Save ‘The Hunt for Ben Solo.’”
Instead, the only “Star Wars” movie of Kennedy’s stewardship to win widespread and prevailing approval from fans was arguably 2016’s “Rogue One.” Gareth Edwards’ spinoff was also a troubled production, leading to Tony Gilroy, eventual creator of “Andor,” overseeing reshoots. Yet despite that, “Rogue One” — taking place within “Star Wars” but outside of the main Jedi storyline — might be the only film of Kennedy’s “Star Wars” reign that managed to both stay true to the space odyssey’s tone and to break new ground.
“The opportunity to celebrate the excellence of student photojournalists and offer encouragement to them as they pursue their passion is a privilege and an honor,” said Rana Cash, executive editor of The Charlotte Observer.
“Even greater is the chance for them to see and hear from our staff photographers who produce some of the best work in the country. Even though I see their work every day, I remain in awe of their talent and the empathy they bring to our community on a daily basis.”
Three students received top honors in the second annual photo contest. The overall first place winner was Lydia Riley, a student at East Mecklenburg High School, for her portrait of a ballerina, “Dancer in Bloom.”
Lydia Riley, center, a student at East Mecklenburg High School, is honored as the overall winner of the student photo contest for her portrait, “Dancer in Bloom”, during The Charlotte Observer’s third annual Captured Memories event at ImaginON: The Joe and Joan Martin Theater in Charlotte on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. Emily Broyles ebroyles@charlotteobserver.com
“Dancer in Bloom” Lydia Riley
Second place went to Henry Yingling, a student at Myers Park High School, for his black and white portrait of Charlotte FC player Alfred Zaha, “Thank You, CLT.”
Henry Yingling, center, a student at Myers Park High School, is honored as the second place winner of the student photo contest for his photo, “Thank You CLT”, during The Charlotte Observer’s third annual Captured Memories event at ImaginON: The Joe and Joan Martin Theater in Charlotte on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. Emily Broyles ebroyles@charlotteobserver.com
Alfred Zaha blows a kiss to the crowd after scoring a goal in the first half of Charlotte FC’s match vs. Montreal at Bank of America Stadium on Sept. 27, 2025. Henry Yingling henryyingling@outlook.com
Third place went to Nahun Paz Puerto, a student at East Mecklenburg High School, for a black and white, night portrait of Charlotte’s skyline, “Queen City Never Sleeps.”
Nahun Paz Puerto, center, a student at East Mecklenburg High School, is honored as the third place winner of the student photo contest for his night landscape, “Queen City Never Sleeps”, during The Charlotte Observer’s third annual Captured Memories event at ImaginON: The Joe and Joan Martin Theater in Charlotte on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. Emily Broyles ebroyles@charlotteobserver.com
“Queen City Never Sleeps.” A skyline shot of Charlotte from Matheson Bridge on Oct. 12, 2025. Nahun Paz Puerto
The top winners received a plaque and cash prize. The top three winning photos will be featured on The Observer’s social media platforms. Additionally, the top winner, Lydia Riley, will get to spend a day shadowing a staff photographer of her choice.
This story was originally published January 15, 2026 at 4:48 PM.
A different kind of shopping experience awaits you at Charlotte Punk Flea Market, on Sunday, February 1, 2026, from 12 to 5 p.m., at Snug Harbor, 1228 Gordon Street, Charlotte, NC, in Plaza Midwood.
Admission is free.
You will find stuff like:
Vintage clothes
Vinyl records
Cassettes
CDs
Toys
Original art
Taxidermy
Handmade jewelry
Retro video games
Comic books
VHS
Horror/B-Movie memorabilia
Oddities
Double-Check Before You Head Out!
We make every effort to make sure that everything on Charlotte on the Cheap is 100% accurate.
However, sometimes things change without notice, and we are not always notified. It’s also possible that we can make a mistake.
Please verify all deals and events with the venue or organizer before you go.
New to Charlotte or planning a visit? Freedom Park is a must-know local gem. This guide explains why it’s such a favorite for families and outdoor lovers.
Getty Images
The creation of this article included the use of AI and was edited by journalists. Read more on our AI policy here.
There’s something special about finding a place in the city where families can spread out a blanket, children can play and visitors can escape urban life without traveling far from home. In Charlotte, North Carolina, that place is Freedom Park — a 98-acre sanctuary that has earned its reputation as one of the Queen City’s most beloved outdoor attractions.
Whether you’re a longtime Charlotte resident who hasn’t discovered this gem, a newcomer looking for weekend activities or a visitor searching for something to do for free, Freedom Park offers something for everyone. Here’s everything you need to know about planning your visit to this cherished community gathering place.
Discover Charlotte’s Hidden Oasis
Freedom Park is located at 1900 East Blvd., between two of Charlotte’s most historic neighborhoods: Dilworth and Myers Park. This location places the park within easy reach of much of Charlotte’s population while surrounding it with the charm and character of these picturesque areas.
The park’s location between these two neighborhoods isn’t merely convenient; it reflects the park’s role as a community connection. Dilworth, known as Charlotte’s first streetcar suburb, and Myers Park, celebrated for its tree-lined streets and historic homes, contribute to the park’s appeal as a destination rooted in Charlotte’s history while serving its current residents.
Freedom Park provides 98 acres of green space for a variety of activities. For perspective, the park spans an area roughly equal to 74 football fields, offering ample room for visitors to find their own corner of tranquility or join in community activities.
Why Families Choose Freedom Park
What sets Freedom Park apart from Charlotte’s other outdoor attractions? According to the Charlotte Observer’s guide to the city’s best parks, Freedom Park is the place “to go for a family picnic.”
This matters for parents seeking places where children can play while adults relax. The park is recognized as one of Charlotte’s top family-friendly destinations, alongside other popular attractions including Ray’s Splash Planet, Discovery Place and ImaginOn -— places “that parents will love, too.”
This appeal represents the best of family outings. Rather than enduring an afternoon for the kids’ sake, parents can relax and appreciate the experience as well.
The Charlotte Observer’s guide helps visitors understand which parks cater to specific needs for families. Independence Park is great if you want to take a scenic stroll. Swimmers can head to Double Oaks Park. But if families want to pack a cooler, spread a blanket on the grass and enjoy quality time outdoors, Freedom Park is a great choice.
This historical attraction provides a connection to America’s railroad heritage and offers something unexpected among the park’s natural setting. For children fascinated by trains, the locomotive is an educational opportunity and a great photo opportunity. For adults, the train is a piece of history preserved for people to enjoy and appreciate.
This unique feature distinguishes Freedom Park from typical urban outdoor attractions. Many parks offer standard amenities, but few can claim a steam locomotive as part of their landscape.
Attend Annual Events Such As Festival in the Park
Freedom Park transforms each September when it hosts the Festival in the Park, one of Charlotte’s signature events.
With nearly 1,000 entertainers and many attractions, the Festival in the Park draws visitors from across the region. Six decades of continuous operation speak to the event’s significance in Charlotte and its role in bringing the community together.
Time a visit to coincide with the Festival in the Park to experience the park’s natural beauty and this large community celebration. September offers pleasant fall weather, making outdoor activities enjoyable.
The park’s attractions are free as well. Visitors can swap books with new friends at Freedom Park as part of free and cheap things to do in Charlotte. This book swap builds the community by encouraging visitors to meet and mingle and promotes literacy in an informal setting.
For families watching their budgets, retirees on fixed incomes or anyone who appreciates a great value, Freedom Park delivers great times at no cost. Enjoy a full day outdoors — picnicking, exploring and playing — without opening your wallet represents a rare value these days.
Mecklenburg County’s greenway system offers many activities beyond hiking and biking, making it possible for a Freedom Park visit to extend into a larger exploration of Charlotte’s outdoors. For fitness enthusiasts, the greenway provides opportunities for longer runs or bike rides that pass through or near the park.
This matters for residents who want to incorporate outdoor activity into their daily routines. Rather than driving to isolated destinations, Charlotte’s greenway system allows for car-free travel between green spaces, neighborhoods and other points of interest.
What Visitors Say
According to Tripadvisor reviews, Freedom Park is consistently praised for its clean, well-maintained grounds and welcoming atmosphere. Many guests say that the park it’s equally suited for active recreation, family outings or quiet time. The playgrounds and sports field and courts receive positive feedback from families, while the walking trails and lake views are favorites among solo visitors and couples. Reviewers also appreciate the park’s dog-friendly policy and the abundance of shaded areas during hot summer months.
Some visitors recommend arriving early on weekends or during special events, as parking can fill up quickly. The park’s accessibility to strollers and wheelchairs is also mentioned, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the amenities.
When planning your visit, consider what you hope to experience. For family picnics, pack your favorite foods and claim a spot on the grass. For train enthusiasts, make the steam locomotive a priority stop. For those visiting during September, check the Festival in the Park schedule for entertainment options.
The park’s location between Dilworth and Myers Park also offers opportunities to explore these historic neighborhoods before or after your park visit. The tree-lined streets and distinctive architecture provide pleasant walking environments that complement time spent in the park itself.
Location: 1900 East Blvd., Charlotte, N.C. 28203
Hours: Open daily from dawn to dusk
Admission: Free entry and parking
Facilities: Public restrooms, water fountains, picnic shelters, playgrounds, sports fields and courts and paved trails
Most visitors spend 1–2 hours enjoying the park’s trails, playgrounds and picnic areas, with extra time recommended during festivals or community events.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Freedom Park free to enter?
Yes, admission and parking are free.
Are there restrooms and water fountains?
Yes, public restrooms and water fountains are available throughout the park.
A former student athlete at Queens University of Charlotte was killed in a hit-and-run while walking along The Plaza in Charlotte, investigators say.
Lance Andreas Jesus Sotelo, 25, died at the scene, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department said in a Jan. 15 news release.
Sotelo was a past member of the Men’s Cross Country and Track and Field teams at Queens University, and had competed as recently as 2025, the university reports.
The deadly crash occurred around 5:45 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 14, in the 3300 block of The Plaza, which is largely commercial, maps show.
“Upon arrival, officers located a severely injured pedestrian … in the roadway. MEDIC responded and pronounced Mr. Sotelo deceased on the scene,” CMPD said.
“The preliminary investigation indicates that the vehicle that struck Mr. Sotelo was a white Chevrolet Impala. The Impala was traveling southwest on The Plaza at East 36th Street when the vehicle ran a red light at the intersection and struck Mr. Sotelo, before fleeing the scene.”
On Thursday, Jan. 15, Q’Laundra Kadri Hood, 28, was identified as the driver, CMPD said. Hood turned herself in at the Hickory Grove Division office, officials said.
She has been charged with:
Felony hit-and-run
Involuntary manslaughter
No operator’s license
Failing to stop at a red light
A 2023 Facebook post by Queens University of Charlotte noted Sotelo was a student-athlete, resident assistant and student body president at the time. He graduated in 2023, then began work on an MBA from the McColl School of Business, the university reported. His is originally from Dalton, Georgia, where he earned Cross Country MVP honors in high school, according to the Cross Country team roster.
“I would never want to be at a school where I am just a number. I love being somewhere where I am ‘somebody.’ Somebody that people know, somebody that people say ‘hi’ to across campus, and somebody who is able to have an impact,” Sotelo was quoted saying in a 2023 article published by the university.
A GoFundMe campaign is raising money for funeral expenses. “He had no life insurance and had just landed a nice job the day he was struck,” the campaign reports. “He loved to run, and that is what he was doing when he was killed.”
Among those posting tributes to Sotelo on social media was Juan Diego “JD” Mazuera Arias, councilman for Charlotte’s District 5.
“I knew Lance. We weren’t close, but we attended Queens University of Charlotte together. I last saw him at an event last December. He should still be here,” Arias wrote in a Facebook post.
“It was preventable. … Lance was killed on a street that is part of Charlotte’s High Injury Network — roads we already know are dangerous. That is a failure of design and a failure of urgency.”
Mark Price is a National Reporter for McClatchy News. He joined the network of newspapers in 1991 at The Charlotte Observer, covering beats including schools, crime, immigration, LGBTQ issues, homelessness and nonprofits. He graduated from the University of Memphis with majors in journalism and art history, and a minor in geology.
A longtime Charlotte barbecue restaurant known for its Eastern North Carolina-style chopped pork is in the process of being sold, and a new restaurant will take its place.
Bubba’s Barbecue, which had been closed for renovations since February 2025, last shared an update then with a Facebook post that said: “Hello Bubba’s Customers, we’re currently renovating our building and will be closed until the updates have been completed. Don’t worry, we’ll be back soon and we can’t wait to serve you in the new and improved Bubba’s Barbecue! Stay tuned for more information.”
The restaurant’s social media remained quiet until a Monday, Jan. 12 deed filed Wednesday, Jan. 14 with the Mecklenburg Register of Deeds showed the property and adjacent parcels at 4452 Sunset Road and 4950 Hamilton Circle Clt were sold to Council Industries CLT.
Eastern North Carolina barbecue from Bubba’s Barbecue in Charlotte. Ralph Miller
Owner Ralph Miller, who’s run the restaurant for nearly 40 years, told CharlotteFive that he was suffering from hip pain that led to spinal-fusion surgery — which comes with a long recovery time.
“I’m not going to be able to get pigs on and off the pit for another 9 months at least,” he said. “I’ve got no choice but to let someone else take it over.”
The buyer is “definitely going to open another restaurant,” Miller said.
But detailed information about those plans is not yet available.
A brisket meal at Bubba’s Barbecue. Ralph Miller
The restaurant first opened in 1963 as Jackson and Spoon’s Barbecue (later just Spoon’s Barbecue) on South Boulevard. In 1987, Miller purchased the restaurant and the original recipes.
He later renamed the restaurant Bubba’s Barbecue and moved it to Sunset Road, where it has been serving Eastern North Carolina-style barbecue since 1994. (The Spoon family, meanwhile, opened Bill Spoon’s BBQ on South Boulevard. That restaurant closed in September 2020.)
Bubba’s had also closed from 2020-2022 during the start of the COVID-19 pandemic but reopened with a simplified menu that included brisket and St. Louis-style ribs, family-sized barbecue portions to take home and meal deals with a choice of barbecue, plus two sides and hush puppies.
Heidi Finley is a writer and editor for CharlotteFive and the Charlotte Observer. Outside of work, you will most likely find her in the suburbs driving kids around, volunteering and indulging in foodie pursuits. Support my work with a digital subscription
If you love scoring deals without paying retail, here’s something new to know about.
Vista Auction is expanding to Monroe, North Carolina, bringing a new way to shop discounted items in Monroe through online auctions with local pickup.
Vista Auction is an online auction where shoppers can bid on returns and overstock items at discounted prices
How the Monroe Location Works
To shop the Monroe location, download the Vista Auction Monroe app and turn on notifications so you don’t miss new listings as they go live. Find the app at bid.vistaauction.com.
If you already shop at the Charlotte location, Monroe will be a separate app for now, but both locations are expected to run through the same app in the future.
Items will be listed, starting Friday, January 16, 2026, with bids beginning to close Friday, January 23.
Each item has its own ending time.
All items won on the Monroe app will be picked up at All items are picked up locally at the Monroe location: 101 N. Sutherland Avenue, Monroe, North Carolina. (The linked map will bring you to the correct entrance of the building.)
What kind of items are sold?
Vista Auction sells a wide variety of discounted items, including household goods, electronics, home essentials, and more. Inventory changes constantly, so what’s available will vary day to day.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — All lanes are closed on the I-485 Outer Loop at mile marker 18 (Oakdale Rd.) in Mecklenburg County.An accident occurred around 7:15 am. NC DOT estimates the stretch of road to reopen around 11:20 am.
We are working to learn on what caused the accident and if there are any injuries.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A petition to remove Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden was dismissed Thursday morning.
Judge R. Stuart Albright said the removal petition was filed without the approval of the county attorney or district attorney.
During the hearing, D.A. Spencer Merriweather was asked if he approved of the petition, and he responded “no.”
The same response was given from county attorney, Tyrone Wade.
The SBI investigation into McFadden’s office is still ongoing, which means this could resurface down the line. In the complaint, statements accuse the sheriff of corruption, extortion, neglect of his duties and other concerns, and as a result, District Attorney Spencer Merriweather has called on the SBI to investigate those claims.
“I feel great. It’s another day on the job,” McFadden said when asked how he felt about the hearing.
McFadden’s attorney told the judge that it would create chaos if disgruntled employees could file a petition without authorization from the D.A. or county attorney.
“Petitions would be filed all the time,” she warned.
Representative Carla Cunningham from the 106th District was one of the people listed on the petition, and she said she believes the SBI investigation could lead to the possbility of removal for the sheriff.
“I appreciate the court’s time today, though the dismissal does not change anything,” Cunningham said. “The SBI investigation will continue, and the DA will have an opportunity to seek Mcfadden’s removal based on the investigation. This is now in the courts hands, and I am focused on my reelection campaign to serve the 106th District in the North Carolina General Assembly.”
The space will be near the Wright Brothers installation in Concourse A, the brewery said on social media outlets such as Facebook and Instagram.
“If the Wright Brothers had a layover … we’d like to think this is where they’d stop,” Sugar Creek said, sharing a picture of the flight innovators enjoying their brew.
Charlotte Douglas International Airport also posted about the new taproom coming to the terminal in partnership with HMSHost, which operates concessions at CLT.
Sugar Creek will serve seasonal and small-batch pours and offer an exclusive “First in Flight” pilsner that can only be bought at the airport, CLT said.
Sugar Creek Brewing Company announced plans on Jan. 14 to open a new location in Concourse A at CLT. Charlotte Douglas International Airport
The brewery, which produces Belgian-inspired beer, is at 215 Southside Drive in the Lower South End area of Charlotte. The business began in 2014.
Sugar Creek Brewing Company is also set to open in Gastonia, The Charlotte Observer previously reported. It will take over for the outgoing Cavendish Brewing Company, which was once the city’s only local brewery.
The company did not respond to a request for comment as of Wednesday.
Sugar Creek’s announcement comes about a month after HMSHost dropped Sycamore Brewing at CLT. The decision was made after that brewery’s co-founder was charged with statutory rape of a 13-year-old girl in December.
Sycamore had been in the Concourse E extension since late 2022.
Chase Jordan is a business reporter for The Charlotte Observer, and has nearly a decade of experience covering news in North Carolina. Prior to joining the Observer, he was a growth and development reporter for the Wilmington StarNews. The Kansas City native is a graduate of Bethune-Cookman University.
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — An astronaut in need of doctors’ care departed the International Space Station with three crewmates on Wednesday in NASA’s first medical evacuation.
The four returning astronauts — from the U.S., Russia and Japan — are aiming for an early Thursday morning splashdown in the Pacific near San Diego with SpaceX. The decision cuts short their mission by over a month.
“Our timing of this departure is unexpected,” NASA astronaut Zena Cardman said before the return trip, “but what was not surprising to me was how well this crew came together as a family to help each other and just take care of each other.”
The ailing astronaut is “stable, safe and well cared for,” outgoing space station commander Mike Fincke said earlier this week via social media. “This was a deliberate decision to allow the right medical evaluations to happen on the ground, where the full range of diagnostic capability exists.”
Launched in August, Cardman, Fincke, Japan’s Kimiya Yui and Russia’s Oleg Platonov should have remained on the space station until late February. But on Jan. 7, NASA abruptly canceled the next day’s spacewalk by Cardman and Fincke and later announced the crew’s early return. Officials said the health problem was unrelated to spacewalk preparations or other station operations, but offered no other details, citing medical privacy. They stressed it was not an emergency situation.
NASA said it would stick to the same entry and splashdown procedures at flight’s end, with the usual assortment of medical experts aboard the recovery ship in the Pacific. It was another middle-of-the-night crew return for SpaceX, coming less than 11 hours after undocking from the space station. NASA said it was not yet known how quickly all four would be flown from California to Houston, home to Johnson Space Center and the base for astronauts.
One U.S. and two Russian astronauts remain aboard the orbiting lab, just 1 1/2 months into an eight-month mission that began with a Soyuz rocket liftoff from Kazakhstan. NASA and SpaceX are working to move up the launch of a fresh four-person crew from Florida, currently targeted for mid-February.
Computer modeling predicted a medical evacuation from the space station every three years, but NASA hasn’t had one in its 65 years of human spaceflight. The Russians have not been as fortunate. In 1985, Soviet cosmonaut Vladimir Vasyutin came down with a serious infection or related illness aboard his country’s Salyut 7 space station, prompting an early return. A few other Soviet cosmonauts encountered less serious health issues that shortened their flights.
It was the first spaceflight for Cardman, a 38, biologist and polar explorer who missed out on spacewalking, as well as Platonov, 39, a former fighter pilot with the Russian air force who had to wait a few extra years to get to space because of an undisclosed health issue. Cardman should have launched last year but was bumped to make room on the way down for NASA’s Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, who were stuck nearly a year at the space station because of Boeing’s capsule problems.
Fincke, 58, a retired Air Force colonel, and Yui, 55, a retired fighter pilot with the Japan Air Self-Defense Force, were repeat space fliers. Finke has spent 1 1/2 years in orbit over four missions and conducted nine spacewalks on previous flights, making him one of NASA’s top performers. Last week, Yui celebrated his 300th day in space over two station stays, sharing stunning views of Earth, including Japan’s Mount Fuji and breathtaking auroras.
“I want to burn it firmly into my eyes, and even more so, into my heart,” Yui said on the social platform X. “Soon, I too will become one of those small lights on the ground.”
NASA officials had said it was riskier to leave the astronaut in space without proper medical attention for another month than to temporarily reduce the size of the space station crew by more than half. Until SpaceX delivers another crew, NASA said it will have to stand down from any routine or even emergency spacewalks, a two-person job requiring backup help from crew inside the orbiting complex.
The medical evacuation was the first major decision by NASA’s new administrator Jared Isaacman. The billionaire founder of a payment processing company and two-time space flier assumed the agency’s top job in December.
“The health and the well-being of our astronauts is always and will be our highest priority,” Isaacman said in announcing the decision last week.
Thousands of people lined sidewalks and filled the lawn of a south Charlotte recreation center Wednesday night to greet Buddhist monks walking for peace from Texas who traveled through Rock Hill earlier in the day.
People held signs with different messages and yelled “thank you” as the monks, some of whom wore shoes and winter hats, walked by them toward a row of chairs in the middle of the crowd on the turf.
“We don’t want a peaceful moment and then that’s it,” one of the monks said. “We want a long-term peace.”
The crowd listened as one monk spoke about their journey from Texas to Washington, D.C. He said they have walked over 1,600 miles in 81 days, and have sustained many injuries. But they pushed through those injuries, he said, because they don’t want to stop.
The monk encouraged the crowd to spend more time with loved ones and connecting with people. He also said it was important for people to continue pursuing peace even after the monks completed their journey.
The monk joked that once their journey was done, they planned to take a bus back to Texas.
Many unable to see the monks listened closely, holding family members close or sitting on the ground with their eyes closed.
The monk said they appreciated the gifts people have given them throughout their journey.
“We received your heart,” the monk said. But he asked that, beginning Thursday, as the monks make their way to Raleigh, that people don’t try to walk alongside them.
It can be stressful to have people crowding them and can create an unsafe environment, he said.
“Please understand and forgive us,” he said. A member of the crowd yelled, “We’ll respect your request.”
Crowd arrives hours before
Hundreds of people showed up to the recreation center hours before the monks arrived. People stood, sat on blankets or in lawn chairs from home. Kids chased each other. Many brought gifts for the monks, including dog treats for the monks’ dog, Aloka the Peace Dog, and snacks to munch on in the cold.
The Marion Diehl Recreation Center on Tyvola Road would be the last stop in North Carolina for the monks. .
“This is a distraction from all the chaos,” said Jessica Wells, who was with her mother, Denise Scheidt. “I hope the message they’re carrying revitalizes Charlotte.”
Wells, who stood near the front of the crowd with Scheidt, said the monks’ journey resonated with her in multiple ways. She’s originally from Texas, and said her father would share many of the same messages with her as a child.
Hundreds gathered near the North Carolina and South Carolina border to see the peace-walking monks during their journey into Charlotte. Jonathan Aguallo
Her father, who died recently, encouraged her to promote unity and be active and informed politically. He would have loved being with them to see the monks, Scheidt said.
“We’d probably have been here hours earlier if he was here,” she said.
Buddhist monks on their way from Texas to Washington, D.C., walk through Chester County, South Carolina, on their way to Rock Hill, picking up gifts along the way. TRACY KIMBALL tkimball@charlotteobserver.com
Wells said she felt like her dad was present with them spiritually at the event, helping make sure they could get a decent parking spot.
Monks’ message of peace resonates
Lynne Williams, who had been at the rec center since 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, said she hoped the monks’ journey and message would resonate with people.
“We need more peace in this world,” Williams said. “We need people to stop all the othering.”
Williams also said she hoped people would greet the monks with prayers and bows, rather than with phones in hand.
“It’s just really beautiful to see somebody not just saying, ‘Oh, be peaceful,’” Williams said. “But actually putting their physical bodies on the line for that purpose.”
This story was originally published January 14, 2026 at 5:58 PM.
Jeff A. Chamer is a breaking news reporter for the Charlotte Observer. He’s lived a few places, but mainly in Michigan where he grew up. Before joining the Observer, Jeff covered K-12 and higher education at the Worcester Telegram & Gazette in Massachusetts.
Emmy Lou’s, at 2400 Park Road, Suite H, Charlotte, North Carolina, is hosting its first wine tasting on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, from 5 to 7 p.m.
The free wine tasting will take place at the bar.
They’ll feature three fun wines, with Marco Fusato from Grapevine Distributors guiding the tasting and sharing insights on each bottle along the way. There will also be several food specials available.
Double-Check Before You Head Out!
We make every effort to make sure that everything on Charlotte on the Cheap is 100% accurate.
However, sometimes things change without notice, and we are not always notified. It’s also possible that we can make a mistake.
Please verify all deals and events with the venue or organizer before you go.
You might also be interested in:
Upcoming Events in the Charlotte area
Check out our full events calendar, where you can enter any date, or look at the events for the next few days here:
Krispy Kreme is offering sweet relief in response to a widespread Verizon outage.
On Jan. 14, anyone can get a free original glazed doughnut from 5-7 p.m. at participating Krispy Kreme shops nationwide, according to the Charlotte-based doughnut chain. No purchase is necessary.
“Because some days need a sweet backup plan you can rely on,” the doughnut shop wrote.
Charlotte-based Krispy Kreme is best known for its “Hot Now” glazed doughnuts. Photo by Krispy Kreme
Verizon, the nation’s largest wireless carrier, on Wednesday experienced a crippling outage that left thousands of customers without cell service or an “SOS,” signaling no connection, NBC News reported.
The nationwide disruption was felt locally; In a post on X, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police said the outage was impacting residents’ ability to call 911.
“We understand the impact this has on your day and remain committed to resolving this as quickly as possible,” the Verizon said in an update Wednesday afternoon.
Tanasia is a service journalism reporter at the Charlotte Observer | CharlotteFive, working remotely from Atlanta, Georgia. She covers restaurant openings/closings in Charlotte and statewide explainers for the NC Service Journalism team. She’s been with McClatchy since 2020.
Public school advocates rallied in front of the General Assembly on Wednesday to lobby for more school funding and for restrictions on charter schools and private school vouchers.
Participants at a “wEDnesdays for Public Schools” protest organized by Public Schools First NC and the North Carolina PTA held up signs with messages such as “Keep Public Dollars in Public Schools” and “Schools Just Wanna Have Funds.” Protesters argued that traditional public schools are suffering at the expense of more taxpayer money being provided to charter schools and private schools.
“We are 50th in the country in our funding effort for investment in public education, and that’s abysmal and shameful,” Lynn Edmonds, outreach director for Public Schools First NC, said in an interview. “We need better teacher pay. We need more investment in classroom materials. We need more investment in public school funding.”
The groups plan to hold “wEDnesdays for Public Schools” rallies on the second Wednesday of the month on Feb. 11, March 11 and April 8. Wednesday’s protest drew around 15 people.
Public school advocates including Marie Dexter, president of the Wake County PTA Council, center, gather outside the N.C. Legislative Building in Raleigh to lobby for more public school funding on Wednesday. NC Teachers in Action plans to hold protests on Feb. 7, March 7 and April 7. Ethan Hyman ehyman@newsobserver.com
Hundreds of teachers called out of work on Jan. 7 to lobby for more school funding. NC Teachers in Action plans to hold monthly protests on Feb. 7, March 7 and April 7.
“Fully fund public schools to the national average or better using the Leandro Comprehensive Remedial Plan as a guide.”
”Stop the harmful diversion of public tax dollars from traditional public schools to voucher and charter schools; apply the same policies & regulations to all schools that receive public tax dollars.”
“Repair the teacher pipeline by increasing teacher base pay and restoring and bolstering essential classroom, teacher, and student supports. Increase pay for all other school personnel.”
“Promote student well-being and safety by creating safe and supportive learning environments for all students and teachers.”
“Provide a healthy start for all children by ensuring access to universal free pre-K and school meals for every student.”
“Reverse policies that unfairly and inequitably target public schools. “
Public school advocates gather outside the N.C. Legislative Building in Raleigh to lobby for more public school funding Wednesday. Ethan Hyman ehyman@newsobserver.com
North Carolina was the only state that didn’t pass a comprehensive budget in 2025, leaving funding largely at 2024 levels. This means teachers and other school employees didn’t get new pay raises at a time when state Health Plan costs are going up.
“We need to show that parents support our educators throughout North Carolina and our students,” Marie Dexter, president of the Wake County PTA Council, said in an interview. “We need the legislature to pass a budget so that we can pay our teachers properly, so our students are fully funded, so our buildings are maintained properly.”
How should NC provide school choice?
Several of the items on the Public Schools First list put it at odds with the priorities of the Republican-controlled state legislature.
Public Schools First wants the state to restore the cap on the number of charter schools allowed. The group also wants to put a moratorium on funding for school voucher programs such as the Opportunity Scholarship program.
GOP legislative leaders are fighting the Leandro plan, arguing that only the legislature and not the courts can order the spending of state money.
In addition to removing the cap, lawmakers eased the rules on charter school expansion. Legislators also sharply increased funding for the Opportunity Scholarship program and opened it up to families of all income levels.
“Public schools, it’s education for everybody. It’s education for all,” Dexter said. “We need that money in our schools to make sure that everyone has a proper education.”
Enrollment is continuing to rise in charter schools at a time when it’s dropping in traditional public schools. Enrollment is also rising in private schools. The majority of private school students now get a voucher.
“You know where you can find a lot of school choice that’s free,” said Edmonds, who is also a Wake County school board member. “That’s in the public school system.
“There’s a lot of choice within the public school system, and if parents want that, that’s where the General Assembly should be investing our tax dollars.”
This story was originally published January 14, 2026 at 3:05 PM.
T. Keung Hui has covered K-12 education for the News & Observer since 1999, helping parents, students, school employees and the community understand the vital role education plays in North Carolina. His primary focus is Wake County, but he also covers statewide education issues.
Wooden Robot Brewery, 1440 South Tryon Street, Charlotte, North Carolina, is home to a 15-barrel brew house, taproom and private event space. It features a rotating selection of draft and to-go beer, with a focus on clean, hoppy ales and crisp lagers.
Visit Wooden Robot Brewery to experience their Biergarten, a private event space, food by Wooden Robot Kitchen, and a Coffee Bar.
Wooden Robot Brewery lists their upcoming events on their Facebook page and we are listing them below.
If you’re looking for events at The Chamber by Wooden Robot in NoDa, they are listed here.
Upcoming Events
Check back soon.
Recurring Events
Trivia Tuesdays (scheduled through the end of 2026) 7 to 10 p.m. South End Free
General knowledge trivia — anything from pop culture to history and everything in between.
Double-Check Before You Head Out!
We make every effort to make sure that everything on Charlotte on the Cheap is 100% accurate.
However, sometimes things change without notice, and we are not always notified. It’s also possible that we can make a mistake.
Please verify all deals and events with the venue or organizer before you go.
A Carolina-born coffee chain is shutting down after nearly eight years.
Clutch Coffee Bar, a drive-thru chain headquartered in Mooresville, is officially closing ahead of Dutch Bros Coffee’s plans to acquire its 20 locations across the Carolinas, according to a message posted to the business’s website. Its last day is Friday, Jan. 16.
Launched in 2018, Clutch Coffee has over a dozen drive-thrus, including Charlotte-area spots in Indian Trail, Monroe and Rock Hill.
All locations will undergo renovations and reopen as Dutch Bros shops, though the timeline is unclear.
“This was not a decision made lightly — rather, it comes from a place of deep pride in what we’ve built together, and a belief that this next step will allow the culture, energy, and community-first spirit you helped create continue to grow on an even bigger stage,” Clutch co-founder Darren Spicer wrote.
Dutch Bros confirmed the acquisition and said it will build on Clutch’s “strong foundation in the Carolinas.”
“We’re excited to continue expanding across the country as we work toward our long-term goal of 2,029 shops in 2029,” Dutch Bros told CharlotteFive in a statement.
Spicer pointed to a “strong alignment in values” with Dutch Bros, saying the acquisition will benefit Clutch’s customers and employees.
“Dutch Bros’ track record of incredible quality, speed, service, and local impact allow this transition to be rooted in shared purpose, not just growth,” he said.
Local love for Clutch Coffee Bar
In a farewell message, Spicer thanked the community for its support over the last several years.
“Thank you for choosing us on your busiest mornings, for letting us be part of your routines, and for supporting a dream that started with a small team and a lot of heart and belief in Mooresville, NC,” he said.
Clutch Coffee fans mourned news of the closure on social media:
“Me and my husband went to Clutch every single time he had chemo. All the employees in Mooresville were so terrific to both of us every time!! I will miss y’all so much! Clutch is the best,” Julie Beebe wrote on Facebook.
“Clutch employees were always so professional, loving, respectful & willingness to always make sure service was top tier. Business wise, congratulations – but we will be the OG CLUTCH! Here’s to new beginnings,” Nicholas Liddle commented.
“This makes me so sad but also love that Dutch is coming to the East coast. We’ll miss you guys,” Taylor Purser wrote.*
This is a developing story and will be updated.
*Comments have been edited for capitalization.
Mooresville-based Clutch Coffee Bar is closing after nearly eight years, with Dutch Bros buying its locations across the Carolinas. Clutch Coffee Bar
Tanasia is a service journalism reporter at the Charlotte Observer | CharlotteFive, working remotely from Atlanta, Georgia. She covers restaurant openings/closings in Charlotte and statewide explainers for the NC Service Journalism team. She’s been with McClatchy since 2020.
John Mellencamp — a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer responsible for ’80s smashes like “Jack & Diane,” “Pink Houses” and “Small Town” — is returning to Charlotte in 2026 for what stands to be his biggest concert here, in terms of audience size, in more than 20 years.
His “Dancing Words Tour — The Greatest Hits” will stop at Truliant Amphitheater (formerly PNC Music Pavilion) on Thursday, July 30, the 74-year-old singer-songwriter announced on Wednesday morning.
The last three shows Mellencamp has played here, in 2015, 2019 and 2023, were all staged at 2,455-seat Ovens Auditorium.
The new concert, meanwhile, will be set at Truliant, which has a capacity of approximately 20,000. He hasn’t performed at the venue since it was named for Verizon Wireless (in 2005), having also headlined there when it was named for Blockbuster (in 1999).
Wednesday’s announcement noted that his 2026 tour “marks the first time Mellencamp will be performing all his most beloved songs in a single night, some of which haven’t been played live in many years” — including “R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A.,” “I Need a Lover,” “Wild Nights” and “Ain’t Even Done With the Night.”
Citi cardmembers will have access to presale tickets from 10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20, until 10 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 22; for details: www.citientertainment.com. Additional presales will run throughout the week ahead of the general on-sale kickoff, which is set for 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 23; details: Mellencamp.com. VIP options can be perused at vipnation.com.
The first show of the tour will take place in Grand Rapids, Mich., on July 10.
This story was originally published January 14, 2026 at 10:00 AM.
NORTH WILKESBORO, N.C. — The hills are alive with the sound of racing. Several NASCAR Cup Series teams tested a new engine package at North Wilkesboro Speedway on Tuesday afternoon.
What You Need To Know
Window World 450 at North Wilkesboro Speedway on July 19
Testing on a new 750-horsepower package at the racetrack happened on Tuesday
Hundreds of racing fans attended the test
Single-day tickets for the race are now available online
“I’d like to maybe try to get a ticket for this,” said Collin Welborn, a racing fan from High Point.
Fans came out in numbers to secure their tickets for the Window World 450 on July 19. It’ll be the first NASCAR Cup Series points race at North Wilkesboro since 1996.
Some fans say they have gotten tickets to every race held at the historic speedway and see the upcoming event as a chance to carry on the exciting tradition.
Not only was it the first day fans could buy tickets for the race at the box office, but it was also the first time fans got to see NASCAR’s new 750-horsepower package in person. The new package will be used during select races this season, and fans say they are excited to see the difference in speed.
“It’s not just having it. It’s knowing how to use it,” said Bobby Mills, a racing fan from Winston-Salem. “You can’t just mash the gas and go. You’ve got all the power you need for this place now.”
Fans say the corners of the track are tight coming in, so the extra horsepower on the straightaways could help pick up a little of the difference from having to lift off so far back.
The Speedway hosted the NASCAR All-Star Race from 2023-2025 after sitting empty for decades following the infamous 1996 race.
Fans say they are glad to see action back on the track.
“The atmosphere here is unbelievable,” Welborn said. “Fans come from all across the world just to see the best of the best come here and tackle this track that’s been here since 1949.”
“I think it takes talent to get around this track with 30 or 40 other cars on the track, versus some other tracks that have more wider grooves,” Mills said. “I think this track makes you show your talent.”
Single-day tickets for the Window World 450 will be available online starting Wednesday morning, Jan. 14.
