The chase began when Monroe police spotted a stolen van near the Walmart on West Roosevelt Boulevard in Monroe, police said. The pursuit eventually grew to include the Union County Sheriff’s Office.
A multi-jurisdiction police chase came to a clumsy end when the driver tried to escape on foot and slipped in wet leaves, according to the investigators in Union County, North Carolina.
It happened around 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, and the chase began when a van reported as stolen out of Mecklenburg County was seen by Monroe police at a Walmart on West Roosevelt Boulevard, officials said in a Feb. 24 news release.
“When officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop, the driver later identified as Joshua Orr fled, initiating a vehicle pursuit,” the Union County Sheriff’s Office reports.
“During the pursuit, Orr drove erratically and showed blatant disregard for public safety. He crossed into the opposite lane of travel, drove through public vehicular areas, and failed to obey posted speed limits. … Due to the severity of Orr’s driving behavior and the immediate threat to the public, deputies determined the vehicle needed to be stopped as quickly as possible.”
Spiked sticks were tossed into the path of the van, resulting in the tires being deflated. However, Orr drove on, resulting in one front tire flying off as the van neared Central Piedmont Community College’s Levine Campus, officials said.
“He then made a wrong turn onto CPCC Lane, a dead-end roadway. Orr drove through a gate on school property, causing damage to his vehicle and patrol vehicles involved in the pursuit. He eventually brought the vehicle to a stop,” the sheriff’s office said.
“Orr attempted to flee on foot … but his escape plan was foiled by a wet pile of leaves. He slipped, fell, and was taken into custody without further incident.”
An investigation revealed 46-year-old Orr lives in Concord and is “wanted as a fugitive from South Carolina and has an outstanding probation violation warrant in North Carolina,” Monroe police said.
He has been charged with:
Felony fleeing to elude law enforcement
Felony fleeing to elude arrest with a motor vehicle
Speeding
Two counts of injury to personal property
Reckless driving
Wrong-way driving on a dual lane highway
Failure to stop at a red light
Unsafe passing
Court documents report the chase reached speeds that were more than double the speed limit in Monroe and unincorporated areas of Union County.
Monroe is about a 30-mile drive southeast from uptown Charlotte.
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.
Charlotte could see a dangerous 0.75 inches of ice through Monday afternoon from a storm expected to move into the region late Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026, the National Weather Service reported.
National Weather Service
Hundreds of incoming and outgoing flights were cancelled at Charlotte Douglas International Airport on Saturday ahead of an ice storm expected to shut down the region into Monday.
By 1 p.m. Saturday, at least 437 flights were cancelled, most all of them on American Airlines and its affiliated carriers, according to tracking site Flight Aware.
“CLT will remain open and operational, but travelers should expect significant impacts across the network,” airport officials posted on X at 11:30 a.m.
Charlotte can expect up to a debilitating three-quarters of an inch of ice from the winter storm forecast to bring freezing rain to Mecklenburg and surrounding counties late Saturday through Sunday, National Weather Service meteorologists said.
“A major ice storm is still on tap,” NWS forecasters said on Facebook at 7 a.m. Saturday. ”Make sure to finish any preparations today. Precipitation rates ramp up this evening.”
“Significant ice accumulation on power lines and tree limbs may cause widespread and long-lasting power outages,” according to an NWS ice warning bulletin. “Trees and large limbs could fall on structures, posing threat to life and property.”
“Ice and snow covered roadways will become treacherous and impassable,” the NWS said.
Hazardous conditions could affect Monday’s commute, forecasters said.
Light snow and sleet moved across the Appalachians into the western Carolinas around 8:30 a.m. Saturday, the National Weather Service reported.
“Impacts will be relatively low this morning, but cooling temps set the stage for much greater winter impacts later this afternoon and evening,” NWS meteorologists said on social media site X.
A state of emergency began at noon for Mecklenburg County and “will remain until it’s safe to end it,” the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Emergency Management Office posted on X.
The declaration allows for increased public safety staffing and bans price increases.
The town of Davidson activated its emergency operations center at 6 a.m. Saturday. “Public safety personnel are in place to respond to emergencies throughout the weather event,” according to a town news release.
At 1 p.m., the town of Mooresville closed all public town buildings, including the Charles Mack Citizen Center, Mooresville Public Library east and west branches, Mooresville Skate Park and all recreation centers.
White House approves NC emergency declaration
North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein on Saturday said the White House approved his request for a statewide emergency declaration. That will enable the state to get more generators to hospitals and shelters, access emergency fuel for state vehicles responding to storm incidents, and get U.S. Forest Service help clearing roads in state forests, Stein said at a news conference.
“We are grateful for their partnership and quick response,” Stein said on X.
Once the storm hits, stay home and off the roads, “unless absolutely necessary,” Stein urged.
“Be prepared for potential power outages, and make sure you have a plan to stay warm and in contact with loved ones,” the governor said.
Workers at Charlotte Douglas International Airport are preparing equipment ahead of Winter Storm Fern. Charlotte Douglas International Airport
Charlotte forecast: Single-digit lows
Charlotte has a 100% chance of freezing rain and sleet late Saturday and early Sunday, and a 100% chance of freezing rain mixed with sleet on Sunday, according to the NWS Charlotte forecast.
“The sleet could be heavy at times” late Saturday and early Sunday, according to the forecast.
All freezing rain is forecast after noon Sunday, “with new ice accumulation of 0.2 to 0.4 of an inch possible,” the forecast showed. “New sleet accumulation of less than a half inch possible.”
The NWS forecasts highs of 34 on Saturday and 31 on Sunday, and lows of 21 late Saturday and early Sunday and 28 late Sunday and early Monday.
Monday should be mostly sunny, with a high near 38, although the low could plummet to 8 degrees late Monday and early Tuesday, 17 degrees late Tuesday and early Wednesday, 18 late Wednesday and early Thursday and 12 degrees late Thursday and early Friday, according to the NWS.
“The cold lingering into next Monday will impact folks’ ability to travel,” Stein said at Saturday’s news conference.
Drivers should check DriveNC.gov for the latest road conditions in their areas, he said.
Here’s the latest forecast on storm total snow/sleet and ice accumulations today through Sunday night. A major ice storm is still on tap. Make sure to finish any preparations today. Precipitation rates ramp up this evening.#ncwx#scwx#gawxpic.twitter.com/B0qYQQmdgS
Joe Marusak has been a reporter for The Charlotte Observer since 1989 covering the people, municipalities and major news events of the region, and was a news bureau editor for the paper. He currently reports on breaking news. Support my work with a digital subscription
Mecklenburg County Public Health Director Dr. Raynard Washington is leaving to lead New Jersey’s health department.
Jeff Siner
jsiner@charlotteobserver.com
Mecklenburg County’s chief public health official is leaving for a new position.
Raynard Washington, Mecklenburg public health director since 2021, is stepping down effective Tuesday, the county announced Thursday. He’s been nominated by the governor-elect of New Jersey to serve as the state’s next Department of Health commissioner, the county’s statement said.
Kimberly Scott, an assistant health director of the county’s Population Health Division, will take over as interim health director.
“Serving as Mecklenburg County Health Director has been an absolute honor,” Washington said in a statement. “I am so proud of our public health team and all that we have accomplished during some of the most challenging times for public health. While I’ll miss Mecklenburg County and my colleagues, I know the team here will continue the work to make health possible for everyone.”
Washington joined Mecklenburg County as a deputy health director in March 2020, the same month the COVID-19 pandemic upended health in the Charlotte area and across the world. He was promoted to director in 2021.
Mecklenburg County Deputy Public Health Director, Dr. Raynard Washington gives a press update regarding the COVID-19 outbreak connected to United House of Prayer for All People Convocation events at the South East Health Department location on Friday, October 23, 2020. David T. Foster III dtfoster@charlotteobserver.com
In addition to helping guide Mecklenburg’s pandemic response, the county noted Washington also established North Carolina’s first Office of Violence Prevention, expanded clinic and mobile health services and led the health department to “accreditation with honors” from the NC Local Public Health Accreditation Board.
County Manager Mike Bryant praised Washington for his “unique leadership style, expertise, and contributions to Mecklenburg County” which Bryant said “transcended his role as public health director.”
“An incredibly skilled and resourceful public servant, he played a vital role in helping our community navigate a series of health challenges and transitions … I am grateful for his immeasurable contributions as he joins the growing list of county leaders who have been elevated to serve at a higher level. We will miss him but wish him the very best,” Bryant said in a statement.
Mary Ramsey is the local government accountability reporter for The Charlotte Observer. A native of the Carolinas, she studied journalism at the University of South Carolina and has also worked in Phoenix, Arizona and Louisville, Kentucky. Support my work with a digital subscription
In a video statement on Sept. 17, 2025, Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden said he has been betrayed by former staffers who came out and criticized him to reporters.
McFadden, a Democrat who has been sheriff since 2018, faces the prospect of being removed from office after more than a year of public controversies.
In a superior court petition filed Monday, four former sheriff’s office employees and a state lawmaker laid out a long series of allegations. Among their claims: McFadden had deputies drive people to bars and strip clubs, ordered other sheriff’s office staff to work on his campaign website and threatened state Rep. Carla Cunningham in a phone call.
“I don’t want to see you get hurt; you live in my county,” the petition alleges the sheriff told Cunningham when trying to convince her to vote a certain way on an immigration- and law enforcement-related bill.
Merriweather, also a Democrat, said in a news release that he learned of the petition on Sunday evening.
“District Attorneys have only rarely granted the approval of such a petition, with the understanding that election of a community’s official is a binding choice of the public, which should only be superseded under the most grave circumstances,” he said in that release.
State law requires that a district attorney or county attorney approve a removal petition before it can move forward.
In his letter to the N.C. State Bureau of Investigation, Merriweather noted that McFadden is not just accused of misconduct, but crimes in some instances.
McFadden did not respond to phone calls and messages seeking comment on Monday. Spokesperson Sarah Mastouri said he was aware of the petition, but had no comment.
“The request has been assigned to the SBI’s Professional Standards unit for investigation,” SBI spokesperson Chad Flowers confirmed in an email. “The SBI will not comment further on the status of the investigation.”
Ryan Oehrli covers criminal justice in the Charlotte region for The Charlotte Observer. His work is produced with financial support from the nonprofit The Just Trust. The Observer maintains full editorial control of its journalism.
This story was originally published January 5, 2026 at 4:48 PM.
Ryan Oehrli writes about criminal justice for The Charlotte Observer. His reporting has delved into police misconduct, jail and prison deaths, the state’s pardon system and more. He was also part of a team of Pulitzer finalists who covered Hurricane Helene. A North Carolina native, he grew up in Beaufort County.
Charlotte’s housing market is ending the year on a high note. Actually, it’s an expensive note that’s been on the rise for the past decade.
Charlotte hit the 10th spot for U.S. metros with the fastest growth rates of luxury home prices, according to an analysis from Redfin Real Estate.
The research and online brokerage group defines luxury homes as residences in the top 5% of the area’s price range. That price typically surpasses the $1 million mark. The survey looked at the 50 most-populous U.S. metros.
Looking at data from October 2015 through this past October, Charlotte’s luxury price point grew by 121% going from a median high-end sale price of $751,491 to nearly $1.7 million.
Seeing those price changes is a trend among Sunbelt states, especially Florida. Tampa, Orlando, Miami and West Palm Beach all ranked above Charlotte, with West Palm Beach in the lead with a growth rate of almost 188%.
A Denver, North Carolina, home that is going for $15 million. Charlotte hit the 10th spot for U.S. metros with the fastest growing luxury home prices, according to an analysis from Redfin Real Estate. Jordan Vilonna with Light House Visuals Courtesy of Howard Hanna Allen Tate Real Estate
Other areas ranking above Charlotte include Denver, Seattle, Las Vegas, Phoenix and Nashville, Tennessee, which ranked second.
A Charlotte home can be yours for less than $15M
The price change and increase in luxury homes is something real estate have seen first hand, according to Gary Scott, president of Howard Hanna Allen Tate Real Estate.
In a quick Zillow search, about 25 homes that have been on the market for less than 30 days over the million-dollar mark. And expanding that search to six months on the market, a home in the Old Farm neighborhood off of Providence Road is going for almost $15 million.
Looking at Charlotte MLS data, Scott said 379 units sold for over a million dollars in 2015. This year, 2,669 units topped that mark. That’s an average of 222 a month.
Why is Charlotte seeing a boost in million-dollar homes?
In November, the median sale price increased by 1.2% to $430,000, according to Canopy MLS data. The Charlotte metro area saw an increase of 3.1% to $415,000. The metro area includes Cabarrus, Gaston, Iredell, Lincoln, Mecklenburg, Rowan and Union Counties in North Carolina and Chester, Lancaster and York Counties in South Carolina.
Year-over-year sales growth also showed an almost 20% increase in home sales between $600,000 and $700,000, according to Canopy.
So on a basic level, Charlotte is seeing a rise in luxury home prices because overall housing is more expensive. Diving deeper using Homes.com data, Myers Park saw a 38% increase in growth sales. The average home sale price in the wealthy, historic neighborhood is almost $1.9 million.
Homes in Charlotte are also appreciating at a higher level, Scott said.
The inside of a Cornelius home going for almost $3.5 million. Jordan Vilonna with Light House Visuals Courtesy of Howard Hanna Allen Tate Real Estate
Charlotte ranked 12th for annual price appreciation out of the 40 largest markets, according to Homes.com. That equity is increasing home prices and allowing residents to move into more expensive housing, Scott said.
Another reason is Charlotte’s growing population. Newcomers, who frequently hail from California and New York, are used to that type of pricing.
“Our prices have moved dramatically … But we have an affordable luxury alternative, which makes Charlotte and the Carolinas a really viable option for companies and individuals,” Scott said. “We are on the map as a desirable luxury location and that’s really a dramatic shift in the past 10 years.”
What’s next for Charlotte’s housing market?
Yes, Charlotte is seeing an increase in million dollar homes and even houses in the multimillion.
But the luxury market is just one part of the city’s overall housing sector.
And for those not selling or buying million-dollar homes, Scott said the market is entering a balanced and predictable era.
Inventory is increasing. Interest rates are decreasing. And the average sale price is increasing slowly, Scott said. All three points will bring more buyers into the market, which helps the seller, he added.
The biggest challenge the market will see next year, Scott said, is sellers pricing their homes right. Nationally, about 40% of listings have seen a price change, which makes a buyer more conservative, Scott said.
But at the same time, 20% of properties nationally have sold at or above asking price, Scott added.
“If you price it right, it’ll sell for above,” Scott said. “If you price it wrong, you’re going to take a lot less money than had you priced it right.”
Desiree Mathurin covers growth and development for The Charlotte Observer. The native New Yorker returned to the East Coast after covering neighborhood news in Denver at Denverite and Colorado Public Radio. She’s also reported on high school sports at Newsday and southern-regional news for AP. Desiree is exploring Charlotte and the Carolinas, and is looking forward to taking readers along for the ride. Send tips and coffee shop recommendations.
As the Christmas and New Year’s holidays approach, Charlotte and Mecklenburg County residents should expect changes to their regular trash and recycling pickup schedules in the coming weeks.
Here’s what you need to know.
Charlotte trash pickup holiday schedule
▪ Charlotte: During the week of Christmas, all trash and recycling collection services will operate on a one-day delay beginning on Christmas Day according to City of Charlotte Solid Waste Services. This means, for example, collections days scheduled on Friday, Dec. 26 will receive service the following day.
Trash pickup will not be interrupted during the week of New Year’s (Dec. 29-Jan. 2).
▪ Mecklenburg Countysolid waste centers will be close at 1 p.m. on Dec. 24 and remain closed until Dec. 26. They will also be closed on New Year’s Day.
Hazardous and flammable items such as batteries, gas containers and chemicals, should not be placed in garbage and recycling carts, the city says. Instead of throwing hazardous items in the trash, take them to one of the county’s full-service centers.
More information is available on the City of Charlotte Solid Waste Services website, charlottenc.gov. For questions, call the city at 704-336-7600.
Mecklenburg County towns trash schedule
Waste Pro, the solid waste collection service that most Mecklenburg County towns use for trash pickup, will operate on a one-day delay beginning on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
This means Thursday and Friday pickups for Cornelius, Davidson, Matthews, Mint Hill and Pineville will instead be Friday and Saturday, respectively.
Here’s where you can find more information on trash collection services for each town:
Huntersville holiday garbage collection schedule
Trash collection in Huntersville will be delayed by one day beginning on Christmas Day. Typical Thursday and Friday pickups will instead be Friday and Saturday, respectively. Service will not be interrupted on New Year’s Day.
You can use the Waste Connection’s online, interactive tool at wasteconnections.com to check your collection schedule.
For more information, visit huntersville.org, or call 704-596-9428.
Ask the North Carolina Service Journalism Team
Questions about life in North Carolina? Or have a tip or story idea you’d like to share? The service journalism teams at The News & Observer and The Charlotte Observer want to hear from you.
Evan Moore is a service journalism reporter for the Charlotte Observer. He grew up in Denver, North Carolina, where he previously worked as a reporter for the Denver Citizen, and is a UNC Charlotte graduate.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — When shopping this holiday season, consider shopping small.
Ari Green, founder of D’ara Cosmetics, said she’s spent over a decade perfecting her makeup products.
“I’ve always struggled with super, super sensitive skin,” Green said. “Everything that’s safe for sensitive skin stills has preservatives, chemicals. So, I figured I could make it myself. If I make it, I know what’s in it.”
What You Need To Know
Through Ari Green’s own skincare journey, D’ara Cosmetics was born
She creates body serums, oils and balms by hand in her apartment, using all natural ingredients
Green said she started doing it after seeing all the preservatives in makeup
She makes all the products in her apartment
Through her personal skincare journey, D’ara Cosmetics emerged, offering solutions she was looking for that no one else offered on the marketplace.
“It was just trial and error and figuring out what worked for my skin. And it just turned into a business that has helped so many people,” Green said.
She creates body serums, oils and balms by hand in her apartment, using all-natural ingredients.
As a black female entrepreneur, she believes representation for all types of skin, matters.
“Especially for more melanite’d skin, there’s not a whole lot on the market for us. We have to be very careful about what we use. So it’s something i wanted to create, something that’s safe for all,” Green said.
Green added this holiday season, consider shopping small.
The priceless value of each batch reflects the time, and effort invested.
“Big corporations, you’re one of thousands of their customers, whereas small businesses, it means so much. You’re supporting your community, you’re supporting somebody’s life, somebody’s family, somebody’s dream,” Green said.
If you want to shop D’ara Cosmetics, you can find the link here.
Follow us on Instagram at spectrumnews1nc for news and other happenings across North Carolina.
A Charlotte-area restaurant received a “B” grade from the Mecklenburg County Health Department for numerous health violations, including the presence of insects and moldy food.
Coco Mexican Restaurant (6914 Matthews-Mint Hill Rd. in Mint Hill) received an 86.5% score during an inspection on Thursday, Nov. 13.
Inspectors cited the restaurant after finding “multiple small flying insects” in the kitchen, county documents show.
Other violations the restaurant was cited for include:
Fly in container of corn and molded peppers inside walk-in cooler
Raw beef stored above ready-to-eat tomato sauce
Various dishes stored as clean with stickers or sticker residue present
Beans and lard stored on floor in dry storage area
Food residue and debris on shelving for clean dishes
Floors in need of cleaning throughout kitchen
This is the restaurant’s second “B” grade. The first one was in September.
The Mecklenburg County Health Department performs thousands of health inspections annually. JOHN D. SIMMONS Observer file photo
Mecklenburg County sanitation scores
The Mecklenburg County sanitation grades database shows that at least 89 restaurant inspections were completed Nov. 7-13.
▪ Most restaurants received an A grade, or a score of at least 90%.
▪ One restaurant received a B grade, or a score of at least 80% but lower than 90%.
How to search NC restaurant inspection scores
Sanitation scores and their corresponding letter grades are used in North Carolina to assess restaurants’ adherence to rules and standards intended to mitigate and prevent the spread of food-borne illnesses.
According to state law, permits are immediately revoked if a restaurant receives a score of less than 70%.
You can search all restaurant inspections in Mecklenburg County at public.cdpehs.com.
Ask the North Carolina Service Journalism Team
Questions about life in North Carolina? Or have a tip or story idea you’d like to share? The service journalism teams at The News & Observer and The Charlotte Observer want to hear from you.
Evan Moore is a service journalism reporter for the Charlotte Observer. He grew up in Denver, North Carolina, where he previously worked as a reporter for the Denver Citizen, and is a UNC Charlotte graduate.
Mecklenburg County voters this week approved a 1% sales tax increase referendum to fund transportation projects. Support was inconsistent across the county.
JEFF SINER
jsiner@charlotteobserver.com
A majority of Mecklenburg County voters said yes this week to a sales tax increase that is expected to set in motion a multi-billion dollar regional transportation overhaul.
The transit tax earned some of its biggest gains from the central city and NoDa area, which has access to an active line, and one precinct on the far north end of the county around Davidson, which is anticipating access to a line. The median age of registered voters in these areas ranged from 29 to 43. They skew more Democrat than Republican, but the largest share of them don’t affiliate with any party.
The measure appears to have been the least favored around the southeastern edge of the county, an area that was originally supposed to get access to the silver line. But the plan was canceled. The median age of the registered voters in these areas ranged from 46 to 57.
Several precincts in the county’s southeast that opposed the tax skew more Republican than Democrat – but a couple skew more Democrat. But, like the areas that heavily supported the measure, voters are more commonly unaffiliated.
Signs are placed outside Providence Baptist Church, indicating where voters can enter precinct 36 and cast their ballot for the election in Charlotte, NC on Tuesday, November 4, 2025.
Melissa Melvin-Rodriguez
mrodriguez@charlotteobserver.com
Huntersville Mayor Christy Clark held a commanding lead over challenger Derek Partee in the race for mayor on Tuesday, cementing a political shift that began in 2023 when Democrats swept every town board seat.
Clark secured 64.6% of the vote to Partee’s 33.7%, according to final returns from the Mecklenburg County Board of Elections.
Huntersville’s contest was one of several local races decided Tuesday as voters across Mecklenburg County chose mayors and town boards in Cornelius, Matthews, Mint Hill, Pineville and Davidson. All returns are unofficial.
Huntersville election results
The Huntersville mayoral race was a rematch between incumbent Clark, a former state lawmaker and registered Democrat, and former commissioner Partee, a registered Republican who lost to Clark in 2023. The campaign centered on growth, public safety and whether Democrats would maintain the gains they made in 2023, when they swept every town seat.
“I am so grateful to Huntersville voters for giving me and a majority of the current board a chance to serve again,” Clark said in a statement to The Charlotte Observer. “Prioritizing public safety and infrastructure will continue to be a priority for this board.”
For the six-member town board, Jennifer Hunt, Nick Walsh, Edwin Quarles, LaToya Rivers, Scott Coronet and Heather Smallwood secured seats, according to unofficial results. All five Democrats on the ballot won, along with one Republican, Smallwood.
Democrats Hunt, Quarles, Rivers and Nick Walsh sought reelection, joined by newcomer Coronet. Republicans Dan Boone, Frank Gammon, Smallwood and Jamie Wideman ran in coordination under the “No More Than 4” banner to consolidate conservative votes. Partee distanced himself from the slate and campaigned independently.
Mecklenburg County Democratic Party chair Wesley Harris told The Charlotte Observer last month that the 2023 results reflected years of organizing in northern Mecklenburg, and could indicate how the area will lean in statewide races next year.
“Huntersville is an area that has been trending blue for a while,” he said. “We finally reached that critical point in 2023 where we got our folks out.”
Cornelius election results
Former commissioner Denis Bilodeau beat Mayor Woody Washam Jr. in the Cornelius mayoral race, with 43.8% to 36.8%., a rematch of the 2023 race where Washam won by just five votes.
Bilodeau campaigned on frustration with what he called “business-as-usual” leadership and urged more locally funded road fixes instead of waiting on the state. Washam stressed controlled growth, fiscal stability and transportation investment.
For the board of commissioners, candidates Michael D. Osborne, Susan Johnson, Todd Sansbury, Robert Carney and Colin Furcht came out on top with all precincts reported.
Town of Matthews election results
With five of six precincts counted, Mayor John Higdon led the mayoral race with 65.2% of the vote compared to 34.6% for Commissioner Leon Threatt.
“I’m honored that the people of Matthews have once again placed their trust in me to serve another term as mayor. I remain committed to being responsive to residents’ concerns and available for open, transparent dialogue,” Higdon said in a statement to the Observer. “I also want to thank Leon Threatt for running a respectful and clean campaign, and I sincerely wish him the very best in his future endeavors.”
The race came amid significant board turnover in Matthews, with all six commissioner seats on the ballot and at least three were guaranteed to be filled by newcomers.
Candidates Susan Chambers, John Urban, Kerry Lamson, Brian Hacker, Jennefer Cross Garrity and Jonathan Clayton led the commission race with five of six precincts counted.
Mint Hill election results
With all precincts counted, Dale Dalton defeated Tim Radzicki in the Mint Hill mayor’s race with 64% of the vote to 35%.
Mint Hill’s new mayor will replace Brad Simmons, who did not run again. Both Dalton and Radzicki are sitting commissioners.
In the race for two commission seats, Twanna Henderson and Trey Long came out on top with all precincts counted.
Incumbents Henderson and Patrick Holton faced challengers Long, Patrick O’Brien and Matt Schwoebel.
Pineville election results
Nick Gallo and Joshua Simelton won council seats with all three precincts counted. The two faced three other competitors, Les Gladden, Yvette Isaacs and Tony Jennings.
Davidson election results
Davidson’s election centered on the Town Board, where six candidates ran for five seats. With all two precincts counted, Incumbents Ryan Fay, Steve Justus, Tracy Mattison Brandon and Autumn Rierson Michael and former commissioner Connie Wessner won seats, with only newcomer David Lusk trailing Wessner by 588 votes.
This story was originally published November 4, 2025 at 9:10 PM.
Directional signs point voters to the entrance of the polling location at North Ridge Middle School during the primary election in Charlotte, NC on Tuesday, September 9, 2025.
Melissa Melvin-Rodriguez
mrodriguez@charlotteobserver.com
Final campaign finance reports before Election Day show incumbents holding fundraising leads in Huntersville and Cornelius, coordinated slates competing in closely watched town board races, and several candidates in other communities reporting little or no financial activity.
Candidates in Mecklenburg County’s town elections have filed their latest campaign finance reports ahead of the Nov. 4 election, offering a look at who raised — and spent — the most in the final stretch.
The reports, filed this week with county and state elections offices, include candidates in Huntersville, Cornelius and other Mecklenburg municipalities outside Charlotte and show the final fundraising figures for the time period between Sept. 24 to Oct. 20. While campaign dollars don’t necessarily predict winners, the filings show which candidates have built donor networks and how much cash they have on hand heading into Election Day.
Here’s what we found:
Huntersville
Huntersville’s competitive mayoral and town board races are drawing money from partisan groups as Republicans look to reclaim ground after Democrats swept all seats in 2023. Though the race is technically nonpartisan, it will test whether that shift was a blip or a lasting change in one of Mecklenburg’s fastest-growing suburbs.
For the entire fundraising period this election, Huntersville Mayor Christy Clark reported raising $22,323, spending about $6,132 and having $14,832 left over. Her donors include groups such as Everytown for Gun Safety, Democratic Women of Mecklenburg County, multiple people affiliated with Peak Development and Charlotte City Council candidate Kimberly Owens.
Derek Partee, a former commissioner and Clark’s Republican challenger, reported raising about $2,892, spending $2,390 and had roughly $1,558 on hand.
The GOP slate aiming to reclaim board control — Dan Boone, Frank Gammon, Heather Smallwood and Jamie Wideman — has garnered support from conservative groups, particularly the North Meck Republicans.
Boone leads the field with $33,816 raised and about $17,516 cash on hand.
Wideman raised $13,601 and has $304 left.
Smallwood reported raising $11,110 and has about $4,244 cash on hand.
Gammon brought in $9,730, holding $5,843 cash on hand.
Democrats also posted notable totals:
Incumbent Edwin Quarles raised nearly $24,813 and has just over $1,500 left.
Incumbent Jennifer Hunt reported $8,676 raised and about $6,206 on hand.
Scott Coronet, a Democratic newcomer, raised $28,047 and has $7,449 remaining.
LaToya Rivers reported $933 raised with $151 left.
Nick Walsh’s report was not yet publicly available. The Charlotte Observer reached out to Walsh for the report.
Developer-affiliated donations, particularly tied to Peak Development, appear across several Democratic reports.
Cornelius
Cornelius voters will see a rematch at the top of the ballot, with Mayor Woody Washam Jr. and former commissioner Denis Bilodeau facing off again after one of Mecklenburg County’s closest races in 2023. The mayoral race has drawn uneven fundraising totals, with Washam reporting a wide lead in contributions and cash on hand.
For the entire fundraising period this election, Washam holds a significant financial edge, reporting $59,857 raised, $25,254 spent and $42,762 left to spend. His supporters include North Meck Republicans, the Mecklenburg County Republican Party and Mecklenburg County Superior Court Judge George Bell.
Bilodeau reported $12,975 raised, $14,626 spent and about $844 remaining.
Kenny Campbell, a new challenger in the mayoral race, reported $2,458 raised, $2,447 spent and $11 cash on hand.
Board candidate Todd Sansbury reported raising $3,238 and having about $1,154 remaining. Reports for Robert Carney, Susan Johnson, Michael Osborne, Michael DeVoney and Colin Furcht were not yet posted as of Thursday. The Observer reached out to candidates for their reports.
Matthews
Matthews voters will choose a new town board this year, with several open seats and a mayor’s race between two current officials. At least three commission seats are guaranteed to be filled by newcomers.
Mayor John Higdon, running for reelection, reported raising $19,577, spending $16,946 and holding $6,113 in cash on hand this election cycle. His contributors include the Matthews Chamber of Commerce.
Challenger Leon Threatt, a current town commissioner, reported raising $23,075, spending $22,915 and having $1,393 remaining.
For the board of commissioners, campaign filings show a wide range of activity among the crowded field of candidates.
Susan Chambers reported raising $10,346. Spending details and remaining cash were not reported on her form.
Kerry Lamson raised $4,187, spent $3,773 and has $415 on hand.
George Young reported $300 raised, $68 spent and $308 cash remaining.
John Urban, an incumbent, reported $1,225 raised, $2,076 spent and $2,354 on hand after carrying funds from previous cycles.
Mark Tofano’s report was unclear, though it states he raised and spent $0 this election, and has -$1,408 cash on hand.
Reports for Jonathan Clayton, Jennefer Cross Garrity, Brian Hacker and Gina Hoover were not yet available as of Thursday.
Mint Hill
Mint Hill is guaranteed new leadership at the top of the ticket, with Mayor Brad Simmons not seeking reelection. Two sitting commissioners are vying to replace him, while several candidates are competing for open commission seats.
Mayoral candidate Dale Dalton reported raising $11,969, spending $5,510 and holding $6,459 in cash on hand. His competitor, Tim Radzicki did not have a campaign finance report available as of Thursday.
For the board of commissioners, Twanna Henderson, an incumbent, reported raising $9,330, spending $5,771 and having $3,793 on hand. Candidate Trey Long reported $2,925 raised, $2,312 spent and $613 remaining.
Reports were not yet available for Patrick Holton, Patrick O’Brien, Matt Schwoebel or Patrick Holton as of Thursday.
Pineville
No campaign finance reports were available for Pineville’s mayoral or town council candidates as of Thursday.
Mayor David Phillips withdrew from the race earlier this year, leaving Council Member Amelia Stinson-Wesley unopposed for the seat. Five candidates are running for two open council positions.
Davidson
Campaign finance reports for Davidson candidates were not yet posted as of Thursday. Mayor Rusty Knox is running unopposed, and six candidates are seeking five seats on the town board.
The N.C. Department of Health and Human Services said Wednesday, Oct. 29 that October benefits are unaffected, but the state has not yet received federal funding to issue November payments on schedule.
More than 143,000 people in Mecklenburg County and 83,000 in Wake County could be impacted by the delay, The Charlotte Observer previously reported.
Ron Pringle, CEO of the Raleigh-based Inter-Faith Food Shuttle, told The News & Observer his organization is preparing “like a natural disaster,” warning that even after the shutdown ends, “the storm isn’t over.”
With increased traffic expected at food banks across the state, those who are able can help by donating food, time or money — but is donating one better than the others?
While donating food and volunteering are often needed and appreciated, financial donations can have a larger impact. Here’s why.
Emma Wilcox, a senior at Riverside High School, adds sweet potatoes to boxes of fresh produce for distribution at a weekly food pantry at Iglesia Presbiteriania Emanuel on Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2024, in Durham, N.C. The food pantry prepared over 50 extra boxes of fresh produce to help accommodate students during the closure of a dozen Durham schools. Kaitlin McKeown kmckeown@newsobserver.com
Is it better to donate food or money?
When you donate money, food banks can usually make it go further than you can at the grocery store.
According to Feeding America, these organizations can purchase large volumes of food at wholesale prices and cover essential costs like transportation, storage, staffing and other things individual food donations can’t always help with. Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina also reports that every dollar donated translates into “about 7 pounds of food.”
Put simply, when you give money, food banks can choose exactly what’s needed and buy it more efficiently than individual shoppers can, Feeding America says. That means the $10 you spend on a few canned goods could provide many meals when donated instead.
Money helps give people what they actually need
Food banks often try to distribute food based on dietary requirements, but those foods aren’t always donated.
A 2022 study published by the National Library of Medicine found that while food banks do help people access food, the donations they receive often lack variety and nutrition.
By donating cash, you help food banks fill those gaps and stock what’s missing, according to the LA Regional Food Bank, which also points out that money gives them the flexibility to buy whatever their clients need at any given time. It also helps them keep up when food prices rise or certain items run short, so they can make sure everyone gets healthy, balanced meals.
Cash donations reduce waste and save food banks time
Donating food can create extra work for food banks, who have to inspect, sort, store and sometimes even throw away items that are expired or damaged.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, while most food banks welcome physical donations, there are still real costs involved in moving and managing all that food.
When you give money instead, food banks can skip the sorting and focus on buying exactly what they need, when they need it. Feeding America also notes that cash also helps support programs that rescue surplus produce and get it to families quickly, before it goes to waste.
Check out our story on where to get help, including food assistance hotlines, food pantries and nonprofit information for Mecklenburg, Wake, Durham, Orange, Chatham and Johnston County.
For mental health resources during difficult times, check out the News & Observer’s mental health resource guide, which features information about immediate help during a mental health crisis, as well as help for LGBTQ+ people, people of color, children and families, people with disabilities and people experiencing homelessness.
Ask the North Carolina Service Journalism Team
Questions about life in North Carolina? Or have a tip or story idea you’d like to share? The service journalism teams at The News & Observer and The Charlotte Observer want to hear from you.
Evan Moore is a service journalism reporter for the Charlotte Observer. He grew up in Denver, North Carolina, where he previously worked as a reporter for the Denver Citizen, and is a UNC Charlotte graduate.
The curated articles on the 2025 transit tax proposal in Mecklenburg County highlight key things voters should know about a 1% sales tax increase. Common themes include examining the potential economic impact, addressing transit infrastructure needs, and differing views on the proposal’s fairness.
The Charlotte Observer’s reporters have spent the past few months reporting on potential impacts of the referendum, which asks voters whether they support a 1% increase in the local sales tax to fund road, rail, and bus projects.
Supporters argue it addresses congestion and long-term infrastructure needs. Opponents view the tax as regressive and potential accelerant of gentrification risks. Charlotte-area leaders have polarized opinions. Some back the tax, stating it improves transit while others criticize it for increasing costs.
The Charlotte light rail travels atop a mural behind Optimist Hall in Charlotte By TRACY KIMBALL
NO. 1: WILL MECKLENBURG TRANSPORTATION TAX INCREASE FOOD PRICES? HOW PROPOSAL AFFECTS YOU
The proposal could increase Mecklenburg’s sales tax rate from 7.25% to 8.25%, which doesn’t apply universally to all purchased goods. | Published July 21, 2025 | Read Full Story by Mary Ramsey
Voters line up early to cast their ballot on Tuesday, November 5, 2024. By TRACY KIMBALL
NO. 2: MECKLENBURG COUNTY NEARING HISTORIC SALES TAX VOTE. HOW HAVE PAST ELECTIONS GONE?
Referendums like the one poised to appear on Mecklenburg County ballots this November faced mixed reactions from voters in recent decades. | Published August 6, 2025 | Read Full Story by Mary Ramsey
The Lynx Blue Line Parkwood Station in Charlotte, N.C., on Wednesday, September 10, 2025. By KHADEJEH NIKOUYEH
NO. 3: WILL CHARLOTTE LIGHT RAIL STABBING HURT TRANSPORTATION REFERENDUM’S CHANCES?
A murder that captured national attention could affect Charlotte’s efforts to overhaul its transportation system because the multibillion-dollar plan is now in voters’ hands, a political expert says. | Published September 16, 2025 | Read Full Story by Mary Ramsey
The Blue Line train moves through South End in Charlotte. By Jeff Siner
NO. 4: COULD CHARLOTTE TRANSPORTATION REFERENDUM PRICE PEOPLE OUT OF THEIR HOUSES?
Greg Jarrell says has seen “an enormous wave of money” crash into west Charlotte in recent years. | Published September 22, 2025 | Read Full Story by Nick Sullivan
A plan to revamp the Charlotte region’s transportation system with billions in road, rail and bus projects funded by a sales tax increase hinges on voters’ decisions in the upcoming election. By JEFF SINER
NO. 5: CHARLOTTE AREA ROLLS TOWARD HISTORIC TRANSIT VOTE. IS THERE 2ND CHANCE IF IT FAILS?
A plan to revamp the Charlotte region’s transportation system with billions of dollars for road, rail and bus projects would be in jeopardy if Mecklenburg residents vote down a sales tax increase to fund it this November. | Published October 16, 2025 | Read Full Story by Mary Ramsey
No image found A plan to revamp the Charlotte region’s transportation system with billions in road, rail and bus projects funded by a sales tax increase hinges on voters’ decisions in the upcoming election. By JEFF SINER
Charlotte-area leaders and organizations have staked out positions for or against Mecklenburg’s transportation tax referendum. | Published October 28, 2025 | Read Full Story by Mary Ramsey
The summary above was drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All stories listed were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.
School board candidates in 2025 include, from left: (top row), Justin Shealy, District 6; Charlitta Hatch, District 1; Toni Emehel, District 6; Bill Fountain, District 1; Jillian King, District 4; Cynthia Stone, District 5. From left: (bottom row), Melissa Easley, District 1; Juanrique Hall, District 2; Anna London, District 6; Shamaiye Haynes, District 2; Stephanie Sneed, District 4; Lisa Cline, District 5. Not pictured: Robert L. Edwards, District 4 and Gregory “Dee” Rankin, District 3.
Observer file
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education candidate Toni Emehel made claims that opponent Anna London has ulterior motives tied to her campaign during a tense exchange Monday night.
London calls Emehel’s accusations a “distraction.”
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education candidates spoke at a forum Monday night hosted by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg League of Women Voters and WFAE in uptown Charlotte. Candidates addressed issues including: what to make of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools’ historic growth on state assessments during the 2024-25 school year, teacher recruitment and retention, transparency and funding for education.
During the last round of questions for the night, when the three candidates from District 6 in south Charlotte took the stage, though, accusations of “deception” and impropriety started flying.
District 6 Candidate Emehel claimed that opponent London’s motivation to run for the board is to “strengthen the position and influence” of her employer, Mecklenburg County’s workforce development board, Charlotte Works. She also claimed London was motivated to run, in part, by her connections to Charlotte Works Board Chair Raki McGregor, whose wife’s consulting company, SYDKIMYL, holds a controversial six-figure contract with CMS.
“This is the element of deception that comes when elections come,” Emehel said. “The public needs to know who’s running for office, and they need to know that there has been absolutely a connection between the candidate and both organizations.”
Emehel said she received a cease and desist letter from the McGregors, who attended Monday’s forum, regarding what they saw as “false and defamatory statements” about themselves and their companies, WFAE reported. District 1 candidate Melissa Easley reportedly also received a letter.
London, however, called Emehel’s claims “false narratives and misleading information.”
“I am doing this for the right reasons, and I will continue to be respectful and lead a professional and clean campaign,” London said Monday night. “I do not have anything to do with the contract that continues to be referenced… So, it is really unfortunate that there continue to be distractions, misleading information, lies and false narratives, when our community cares about these kids, these educators and what’s best for our community.”
The third District 6 candidate in the race, Justin Shealy, didn’t comment on the controversy at Monday’s event.
Background on the hot-button issue
London and District 1 candidate Charlitta Hatch have ties to McGregor, which Emehel believes “give the look of impropriety,” she told The Observer in September.
McGregor, a Charlotte businessman and former advisor to CMS Superintendent Crystal Hill, accompanied London and Hatch when they filed to run for school board seats in July. His wife, Kimberly McGregor, owns an education consulting firm called SYDKIMYL that had a $500,000 CMS contract last year, which drew questions from some board members.
The original contract expired in June, but public records show CMS signed a new $180,000 contract with SYDKIMYL that runs through Jan. 30. The new contract falls below the $250,000 threshold that would require board approval.
Hatch and London are running for seats currently held by two of three board members who voted against approving the previous $500,000 SYDKIMYL contract. Lisa Cline of District 5 also voted against the contract extension. Meanwhile, Hatch and London share the same campaign treasurer, Misty Lyons, according to their statement of organization forms filed with Mecklenburg County this summer, who is also listed as the finance manager for SYDKIMYL on the firm’s website.
But school board votes on the SYDKIMYL contract did not factor into his decision about who to endorse, McGregor told WFAE in August. Instead, he said he felt some school board members were not totally supportive of the superintendent, who he said is “doing a phenomenal job.”
CMS and the McGregors have defended the contract, pointing to student achievement gains at 10 of the 12 schools where the firm has worked. CMS also previously told The Observer that its Office of General Counsel and Office of Compliance determined the contract did not constitute a conflict of interest.
London said she consulted “multiple different layers of legal counsel” who determined there is no conflict of interest for her to serve as president and CEO of Charlotte Works and on the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education.
“If a conflict of interest opportunity did arise, I would abstain from voting or confer with the general counsel to confirm there is no conflict of interest there,” London told The Charlotte Observer in September.
Rebecca Noel reports on education for The Charlotte Observer. She’s a native of Houston, Texas, and graduated from Rice University. She later received a master’s degree in journalism from the University of Missouri. When she’s not reporting, she enjoys reading, running and frequenting coffee shops around Charlotte.
A University City restaurant received a “B” grade from the Mecklenburg County Health Department for numerous health violations, including the presence of insects and dirty facilities.
Honest Indian Vegetarian Restaurant (8109 University City Blvd. in Charlotte) received an 83.5% score during an inspection on Monday, Oct. 20.
Inspectors cited the restaurant after finding ants crawling on the wall near the cold holding station, where yogurts, chutneys and sauces were held, as well as “flying pests” throughout the facility, county documents show.
Other violations the restaurant was cited for include:
Items stored in handwashing sink
Microwaves in need of cleaning
Squeeze bottles and containers missing labels
Box of oil stored on floor
Employees preparing food with bracelets
Exterior surfaces of all cooking equipment in need of cleaning
Microbial growth on oven vent cover and on walls
This is the restaurant’s first “B” grade.
Mecklenburg County sanitation scores
The Mecklenburg County sanitation grades database shows that at least 173 restaurant inspections were completed Oct. 17-23.
▪ Most restaurants received an A grade, or a score of at least 90%.
▪ Two restaurants received a B grade, or a score of at least 80% but lower than 90%.
▪ Las Meras Tortas (14601 Statesville Rd. in Huntersville) received a score of 88.5% during an inspection on Thursday, Oct. 23.
The restaurant violated 14 standards, including employee drinks stored near food prep areas and metal pans stacked wet.
Most violations were corrected during the inspection.
The restaurant previously scored 94.5% in June.
Mecklenburg County says it does thousands of food service inspections annually. JOHN D. SIMMONS Observer file photo
How to search NC restaurant inspection scores
Sanitation scores and their corresponding letter grades are used in North Carolina to assess restaurants’ adherence to rules and standards intended to mitigate and prevent the spread of food-borne illnesses.
According to state law, permits are immediately revoked if a restaurant receives a score of less than 70%.
You can search all restaurant inspections in Mecklenburg County at public.cdpehs.com.
Ask the North Carolina Service Journalism Team
Questions about life in North Carolina? Or have a tip or story idea you’d like to share? The service journalism teams at The News & Observer and The Charlotte Observer want to hear from you.
Evan Moore is a service journalism reporter for the Charlotte Observer. He grew up in Denver, North Carolina, where he previously worked as a reporter for the Denver Citizen, and is a UNC Charlotte graduate.
Mecklenburg County is warning residents who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to prepare for possible delays in benefits if the ongoing federal government shutdown continues.
County spokesperson Betsy Abraham said federal officials notified the state Department of Health and Human Services that November SNAP payments “may be disrupted,” potentially affecting more than 143,000 local recipients — the largest number of any county in North Carolina, The Charlotte Observer previously reported.
The county has begun alerting residents through its Food and Nutrition Services webpage and during assistance calls, though it does not yet know the exact impact, the Observer reported — but there are ways you can help.
Here’s a guide to food pantries in Charlotte, including when you can donate, what items they accept and ways you can volunteer to help.
Any others to include? Email us at news@charlotteobserver.com.
The food panty at Care Ring in Charlotte, N.C., on Wednesday, August 13, 2025. KHADEJEH NIKOUYEH Knikouyeh@charlotteobserver.com
What they accept: Non-perishable healthy staples like brown rice, quinoa, canned beans, nuts, seeds, whole grain cereals, canned fish, low-sodium canned vegetables, canned fruits, olive oil and cooking spray.
How to volunteer: Volunteer opportunities include assisting with unloading food pantry deliveries, sorting, inspecting, and stocking nonperishable items and fresh produce. Register online.
Hours: Tuesdays 2-5:30 p.m., Wednesday through Friday noon-3 p.m.
What they accept: Needs include baby wipes, body wash, canned fruit, canned soup, cereal, coffee, dry beans, diapers, dog food, lotion, oatmeal, toothpaste and deodorant.
How to volunteer: Volunteer opportunities include assisting with food distribution, pantry operations and home deliveries. Those interested in volunteering can apply here.
Hours: Tuesdays 10:30-11:30 a.m and Thursdays 4-7 p.m.
What they accept: Non-perishable food items such as canned beans, tuna, fruit, mac and cheese, oatmeal, rice, pasta, canned vegetables, pasta sauce and soup.
How to volunteer: Volunteer opportunities include sorting and distributing food to clients. Register online.
What they accept: Non-perishable food items such as canned goods, pasta, rice and snacks.
How to volunteer: Volunteer opportunities include assisting with pantry operations and supporting students in need. UNC Charlotte students can sign up for volunteer shifts on the Niner Engage events page. Non-students can email ninerpantry@charlotte.edu for volunteer opportunities.
What they accept: Non-perishable food items and personal hygiene products.
How to volunteer: Volunteer opportunities include assisting with pantry operations and supporting families in need. Those interested in volunteering can fill out an application here.
Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina
Do you or a loved one need help?
Check out our story on where to get help, including food assistance hotlines, food pantries and nonprofit information for Mecklenburg County.
For mental health resources during these uncertain times, check out the News & Observer’s mental health resource guide, which features information about immediate help during a mental health crisis, as well as help for LGBTQ+ people, people of color, children and families, people with disabilities and people experiencing homelessness.
The Charlotte Observer’s Mary Ramsey contributed to this story.
Ask the North Carolina Service Journalism Team
Questions about life in North Carolina? Or have a tip or story idea you’d like to share? The service journalism teams at The News & Observer and The Charlotte Observer want to hear from you.
Mary Ramsey is the local government accountability reporter for The Charlotte Observer. A native of the Carolinas, she studied journalism at the University of South Carolina and has also worked in Phoenix, Arizona and Louisville, Kentucky. Support my work with a digital subscription
Evan Moore is a service journalism reporter for the Charlotte Observer. He grew up in Denver, North Carolina, where he previously worked as a reporter for the Denver Citizen, and is a UNC Charlotte graduate.
It’s the final round of The Charlotte Observer’s Cutest Cat Contest, and the competition is down to a few standout felines.
After the first round, readers narrowed the field to 10 seriously adorable cats — from laid-back loungers to playful troublemakers. Now it’s time to choose the winner.
Cast your vote before midnight on Monday, Oct. 27, to help decide which cat will claim the title of Charlotte’s cutest. The winner will be announced on Monday, Nov. 3.
Remember: This poll isn’t scientific — it’s for fun!
This story was originally published October 20, 2025 at 11:59 AM.
Evan Moore is a service journalism reporter for the Charlotte Observer. He grew up in Denver, North Carolina, where he previously worked as a reporter for the Denver Citizen, and is a UNC Charlotte graduate.
The final round of The Charlotte Observer’s Cutest Dog Contest is here, and the race for the title is closer than ever.
These pups have won hearts with their big smiles, floppy ears and plenty of personality. Now it’s up to readers to pick the ultimate winner.
Voting closes at midnight on Monday, Oct. 27, so be sure to show your support for your favorite dog before then. The winning pup will be revealed on Monday, Nov. 3.
Remember: This poll isn’t scientific — it’s for fun!
This story was originally published October 20, 2025 at 11:59 AM.
Evan Moore is a service journalism reporter for the Charlotte Observer. He grew up in Denver, North Carolina, where he previously worked as a reporter for the Denver Citizen, and is a UNC Charlotte graduate.
The Charlottte Observer is accepting applications for its 2026 summer internship program.
We are looking for bright, ambitious journalists who will bring curiosity, energy and imagination to report on stories in Charlotte and surrounding communities.
Our interns are a crucial part of our newsroom operation and are treated as professional, full-time employees from day one. Each will be assigned to teams working with editors and seasoned mentors to develop sources, report and write stories and shoot photos and video, while receiving the necessary coaching and training to help grow as journalists.
The Charlotte Observer was a Pulitzer Prize finalist for Breaking News in 2025 for our coverage with the News & Observer of Hurricane Helene and its aftermath in Western North Carolina. In the past, The Observer has won multiple Pulitizer Prizes, including two for public service and three for editorial cartoons.
In addition, the Observer this year won 34 awards at the 2025 North Carolina Press Association banquet.
The internship program
Internships are paid full-time for 10 weeks and typically start at the end of May or beginning of June.
Internships are in-person and are based in the Charlotte metro region.
Interns participate in regular training sessions offered by McClatchy Media and on-site at the Observer newsroom.
Our interns generally work in our newsroom from Monday to Thursday, with Friday acceptable as a hybrid in-market remote workday.
We seek strong candidates to work as reporters, visual journalists and audience growth producers. Assignments have been on metro, politics, sports, business, features, photography/video and our audience growth teams. Please let us know if you have an assignment interest, or any specialized expertise, such as data reporting or audience/growth development.
Qualifications
The internship is open to rising or current sophomores, juniors and seniors and graduating seniors. Interns must be enrolled in a four-year degree program, graduate program or have recently graduated. Other qualifications:
A collaborative work ethic and a strong desire to learn.
Deep curiosity and a drive to find the truth.
Solid news judgment, accuracy, and high ethical standards.
Understanding of the professional use of social media in news-gathering and audience development.
A quick study of technology and tools used in news-gathering.
Experience working at a college publication, print or online, or another news outlet is required. Previous experience, in addition to a college publication, is preferred.
Bilingual skills are a plus.
A driver’s license and reliable transportation are required.
The Charlotte Observer internship is competitive and we place a high premium on breaking news. Most of our interns land full-time jobs following their stint at The Observer, including some hired at McClatchy properties.
Where the internship is located
Your homebase is in Charlotte, but our coverage area spreads to communities in Mecklenburg, Cabarrus, Union, Gaston, Lincoln and other counties, and across the South Carolina border to York County. With population of nearly 1 million, Charlotte is North Carolina’s largest city, with the region among the nation’s fastest growing metropolitian area with 2.8 million residents.
Vibrant and diverse, Charlotte is the South’s banking capital, home to the Panthers, Hornets, NASCAR and Lake Norman. It has a robust restaurant scene, choice arts, museums, historic neighborhoods and other notable cultural outlets such as the Levine Center for the Arts, the Gantt Center, the Independent Picture House and live shows at Three Bone Theater that make Charlotte truly an exciting place to live.
What is The Charlotte Observer application deadline?
The deadline to apply is 7 p.m., Friday, Dec. 5. Applications are being reviewed on a rolling basis, but we strongly urge candidates to apply early and before the deadline.
A single-page cover letter summarizing what you would bring as a journalist to our newsroom.
A resume that includes links to your public social media accounts ( for example X, Instagram, TikTok)
At least three work samples, preferably in PDF format, or a link to a personal website or portfolio
Two references, which may be included on your resume or cover letter.
If you are interested in applying for an internship with our sister publication, The Herald, click this link here. The Herald’s coverage area is just over the state border in York County, SC, but you’d be based out of Charlotte.
For additional information contact Lisa Vernon Sparks, intern supervisor, at lvernonsparks@charlotteobserver.com
The work of previous interns
Our interns have done outstanding work. Below are links to some notable articles:
This story was originally published October 10, 2025 at 6:00 AM.
Lisa Vernon Sparks is the Race, Culture and Community Engagement Editor for The Charlotte Observer. Previously she was an Opinion Editor with the Richmond Times-Dispatch in Virginia. Her award-winning career has netted bylines in Virginia, Rhode Island, New Jersey and her native New York. She is an alumna of Columbia University in New York and Northeastern University in Boston. Support my work with a digital subscription
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