Essay

Long Walk Home for Charlotte

A few thoughts on the Springsteen concert and the I-77 debate

One year of listening to Charlotte

A note of thanks, on the anniversary of The Charlotte Optimist.

I Read the Book That Says Charlotte Lacks Soul. So I Called the Author.

Robert FitzPatrick’s search for Charlotte’s soul comes up mostly empty. A two-hour conversation left me thinking about my own answer.

What’s Going On With Charlotte

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.

Photo Essay: Charlotte’s Ideal Snow

Our city in pictures after a history-making snowstorm.

Notes from an icy weekend in Charlotte and beyond

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

Lightning bugs

A summer night in Charlotte sparks up memories

Read The Charlotte Optimist

Stories that lead. Every Sunday evening.