After a national spotlight turned toward Charlotte, I spent a week listening across the city. The result is a mosaic of the people and moments shaping it.

After growing up on the Chesapeake, I can count the North Carolina spots that get it right on one hand. A six-month-old shop in Lincoln County named Poppy’s just earned a spot.

A short reflection on weather, neighbors, and the small moments that hold a weekend together.

Buddhist monks crossed into North Carolina on a 2,300-mile Walk for Peace. And for two days, Charlotte walked with them.

A playoff loss, a shared roar, and the moment Charlotte remembered how to believe together.

What I’ve learned from a year of listening to Charlotte — and what comes next.

A reflection on imperfect Christmas trees, odd neighbors, family traditions, and the characters who shape the season — from my childhood swamps to Charlotte today.

Let’s start with a story I know is true. I ran over a nail last Monday morning. Photographer Logan Cyrus and I had planned to ride around and talk to people about the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s blitz here, but somewhere between my home and daycare my tire started going flat. I asked him […]

Mecklenburg’s transportation referendum isn’t just about rails, roads, or buses. It’s a test of trust—trust in the plan’s guardrails, in elected leaders, and in one another.

The Charlotte region continues to draw loads of newcomers. Here’s a letter to the newest among us — about pizza boxes, traffic jams, barbecue sauce, and finding a little magic in unexpected places.