Mecklenburg voting results for school bonds and board and Charlotte city officials.

U.S. Rep. Jeff Jackson vowed that, if elected as the next N.C. Attorney General, he would refocus N.C. law enforcement energies on fentanyl, the poison that is killing North Carolinians and Americans nationwide.

Democrat Tiawana Brown answers questions about the District 3 City Council race on Nov. 7.

The last group of candidates on the Nov. 7 ballot running for three CMS school board seats presented today.

Five of the 14 candidates on the Nov. 7 ballot for three at-large seats on the CMS Board of Education addressed the Forum.

Preliminary results in Charlotte primary election, as reported by the State Board of Elections.

Forum heard from four of the six Democrats involved in City Council primaries for Districts 4 and 5 on Sept. 12.

Tiawana Brown, left, and Warren Turner, two of the three District 3 Council Democratic primary candidates, offered views on the needs of the city and its people.

Robert Dawkins offered a summary of state voting rules applying to the Sept. 12 primary election.

Malcolm Graham, left, defends his District 2 City Council record in session with challenger Gary Young.

Five of six Democrats in the Sept. 12 Democratic primary for four City Council At-Large seats explored their roles in moving the city forward.

Mayor Vi Lyles, a Democrat in the September primary, and Rob Yates, a Libertarian wiith no primary, discussed city growth issues.

Nov. 8, 2022 voting results for candidates on the Mecklenburg ballot.

Three candidates for N.C. House seats concluded Forum presentations on the Nov. 8 election.

Six Democrats, five of them incumbents, explained their efforts to advocate for change in the GOP-controlled N.C. House

Four of the eight candidates in contested races for the N.C. Senate answered questions.

Susan Rodriguez-McDowell, D-6, Laura Meier, D-5, and Mark Jerrell, D-4, addressed county challenges ahead.

Carolyn Thompson has served as a judge halfway across North Carolina, but is on the Mecklenburg ballot Nov. 8. Judge candidates and Soil & Water board candidates addressed participants.

Candidates for at-large and two district seats on the Board of County Commissioners addressed participants.

Six candidates running for CMS Board of Education seats to represent Districts 2, 4 and 6 answered questions.

Seven candidates running for CMS Board of Education seats to represent Districts 1, 3 and 5 answered questions.

Election results from the City of Charlotte’s general election for Mayor and Council.

Two of the six candidates in July 26 District City Council contests attended the Forum.

Five at-large City Council candidates focused on ways the Council can tend to unfinished business, particularly on making the city work for people already living here.

Remember the Fourth on July 26, your next opportunity to exercise your vote.

Voting percentages for May 17 primaries in which Mecklenburg voters participated.

Stephanie De Sarachaga-Bilbao, Republican candidate for Charlotte Mayor, addressed Forum and fielded questions.

Candidates made last-week pitches for support from area voters as early voting continues and Primary Day looms May 17.

New ideas for prompting higher voter turnout were few and far between. Older methods were mentioned amid slow early voting.

Six hopefuls are on the May 17 Democratic primary ballot for three contested District Court seats.

Four of fiive Republicans seeking the nod in the GOP May 17 primary for Charlotte City Council At-Large seats answered questions.

The six Democrats in the May 17 primary for City Council at-large seats addressed the Forum and answered questions.

The Black Political Caucus announced its endorsements in contested primaries on the May 17 primary ballot.

Six Democrats are seeking an at-large seat on the county board.

Ram Mammadov, left, and Jeff Jackson discussed issues they want to pursue if elected to the U.S. House from the new 14th District.

Gina Hicks, Garry McFadden and Marquis Robinson discussed issues in the Democratic primary for Sheriff.

Alma Adams discussed her work in Congress. Four others did not attend session on District 12 Congress primaries.

Willis Draugh Jr. might be on the November ballot. He was among mayoral hopefuls at the Forum.

District Attorney candidates Tim Emry and Spencer Merriweather share their visions.

Courts completed reviews, rejected appeals, and boards of elections have resumed allowing candidates to file for the May 17 N.C. Primary.

The N.C. Supreme Court has ordered the legislature to redraw its district maps by Feb. 18.

NC Supreme Court delays March primary to May to give lower courts time to settle constitutional challenges to districting maps.

A compilation of notes from Election 2020 candidates.

Results from the Nov. 3, 2020 general elections for offices in which Mecklenburg votes.

Forum participants reflect on why they vote, for this series leading up to Election 2020.

Preliminary results from the March 3, 2020 party primaries for offices in which Mecklenburg votes.

Democrat Cynthia Wallace addressed the Forum on her primary contest for the 9th District Congress seat.

Judge Aretha Blake’s statements on a Feb. 6 media report about cases in her courtroom.

Cal Cunningham, left, and Trevor Fuller offered comments on the five-way Democratic primary contest March 3 for the U.S. Senate seat held by Thom Tillis.

George Dunlap, left, and three other candidates in the March 3 primary discussed county and court issues.

Rev. Brenda Stevenson (pictured), N.C. Sen. Mujtaba Mohammed and N.C. Rep. Becky Carney discussed mostly legislative challenges facing the state.

Seven of the eight Democrats in the March 3 primary for 3 county commissioner slots on the November ballot spoke.

Laura Anthony, left, and Jonathan Peebles are running for legislative seats in the March primary.

A challenge to Darrell Bonapart’s candidacy in the N.C. Senate 39 Democratic primary was upheld by the Mecklenburg Board of Elections

Election-night preliminary results from the Nov. 5 election.

Vi Lyles explained her candidacy for re-election as Charlotte mayor, and spoke of a number of things she’s learned in her first term.

Republican Joshua Richardson, left, and incumbent Democrats Dimple Ajmera, Julie Eiselt, James Mitchell and Braxton Winston addressed the Forum.

Brandon Pierce, left, and other candidates for City Council Districts 2, 4 and 6 presented.

Annette Albright, left and Elyse Dashew presented at the second Forum on CMS Board of Education candidates.

Who will guide the education of these children? First of two sessions with CMS school board candidates. (CMS photo)

Results from Tuesday’s Primary Election in Charlotte.

Five candidates for at-large seats on Charlotte City Council addressed the Forum.

Caleb Theodros, left, and Terry Brown discussed District 3 issues at a Forum focused on the Sept. 10 primary.

Sean Thompson, left, and other candidates in the District 4 City Council primary answered questions.

Mark Vincent, left, and others involved in the City Council primaries in District 5 and 7 made presentations and answered questions.

Lucillle Puckett, left, and three other Democrats spoke at a Forum focused on the Charlotte Mayor primary.

Larken Egleston, left, and Sean Smith squared off in the City Council District 1 Democratic primary race. Jessica Davis and Malcolm Graham were the two candidates present in the District 2 primary race.

Unofficial results from voting in Mecklenburg County.

Three of the six candidates for Soil & Water Conservation District Supervisor discuss the advisory body’s work.

Judicial candidates who have opponents on the November ballot spoke. At left is Judge Ty Hands, who is not on the ballot this year.

Election results from Primary 2018.

Three May 8 primary candidates for the 12th District U.S. House seat, two in the Democratic primary and one in the Republican primary, answer questions.

Six of 10 speakers at an Open Forum are involved in the May 8 or November election cycles.

Sarah Stevenson announces that the Forum will not hold candidate forums before the May 8 primary.

A millennial asks the perfect post-election question – and prompts two similar answers.

Three candidates in the Nov. 7 election offered thank-yous and comments at the Nov. 14 Forum.

Results from Charlotte city and CMS school board races.

Vi Lyles presented her case for election as Charlotte Mayor and answered questions.

Candidates for contested district seats on Charlotte City Council

Four candidates for Charlotte City Council and one District 2 candidate.

School board candidates in Districts 2, 4, 5 and 6 presented and answered questions.

Eight candidates vying for two CMS board district seats answer questions at the Forum.

Election results from first Charlotte Municipal primary.

Newcomers, job-switchers and perennial candidates attended last candidate Forum before primary.

Constance Johnson, Vi Lyles and Jennifer Roberts discussed issues in the Charlotte Mayor Democratic primary.

Candidates for Charlotte City Council at-large seats.

GOP primaries in Council District 6 and for Charlotte mayor.

Candidates in the District 2 and District 4 City Council primaries spoke and answered questions.

A number of people have offered themselves for appointment to the City Council District 5 seat vacated by N.C. Rep. John Autry.

Elections results in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina and the U.S.

Judge Rickye McCoy-Mitchell, left and Judge Michael Morgan were joined by Rep. Rodney Moore.

Wake District Court Judge Vince Rozier, a candidate for N.C. Court of Appeals, and four other candidates for judgeships.

Candidate for N.C. Lieutenant Governor, Linda Coleman, was among the state, federal and judicial candidates presenting at the Forum.

Vonnie Brown, Eric Erickson and Lisa Rudisill are candidates for Soil & Water Conservation District Supervisor.

Chuck Stuber, a former FBI special agent, explained his candidacy for N.C. Auditor.

County commissioner candidates Pat Cotham, Trevor Fuller and Marc Friedland addressed the Forum.

Legislative candidates Jane Campbell, Jonathan Hudson, Joel Ford and Chaz Beasley addressed the Forum.

Beverly Earle, Becky Carney, Joyce Waddell and Carla Cunningham addressed the Forum.

Connie Green-Johnson (House 105) and Peter Noris (House 104) lead off candidate forums.

Five candidates for Congress on the June 7 primary ballot in Mecklenburg addressed the Forum.

Election results in Mecklenburg from March 15 primary.

Links to short presentations by candidates on the March 15 primary ballot.

Candidates for public office announce their intentions for 2016.

Election 2015 results.

Jennifer Roberts, Edwin Peacock answer questions at the Forum a week before the Charlotte mayoral election.

District candidates for Charlotte City Council.

Candidates for at-large seats on Charlotte City Council.

Dan Clodfelter, facing an Oct. 6 primary, spoke about mayor’s role and his plans for a full term. He was joined by GOP Council candidate John Powell.

Janeen Bryant and six other candidates for CMS Board of Education.

Five of the seven candidates in District City Council contests on the Sept. 15 primary ballot.

Laurence Bibbs, Bruce Clark, Julie Eiselt and Claire Fallon on Council at-large primary.

Seven of the 12 at-large candidates in the Sept. 15 City Council primary.

Five of the six candidates for Charlotte mayor in the September primaries make their case, answer questions.

Alicia Brooks thanked supporters for help during her election to be a District Court judge.

Resident Superior Court Judge Linwood Foust comments on changing demographics on the local bench.

Here are the winners of 2014 elections in Mecklenburg and North Carolina.

John Arrowood is one of 19 candidates for a single N.C. Court of Appeals seat.

Mark Davis, running for re-election to N.C. Court of Appeals, encourages listeners to vote their interests.

Irwin Carmichael and Chris Hailey spar over their proposals for the Sheriff’s Department.

Alma Adams is the Greensboro Democrat who won the Democratic nomination for the 12th District and faces Republican Vince Coakley on Nov. 4.

Martha Efird and Elisa Chinn Gary, candidates for Mecklenburg Clerk of Superior Court

Richard Rivette is challenging incumbent Joel Ford in N.C. Senate District 38. Ford appeared Sept. 23.

At-large county commissioner candidates Ella Scarborough, Emily Zuyus, Scott Carlisle, Trevor Fuller and Pat Cotham.

Jim Puckett and Leonard Richardson vie for Commissioners District 1 seat.

Marinn Bengel and others argue for city bond and sales tax questions on the Nov. 4 ballot.

Newcomer LaTrice McRae is running for the N.C. legislature in Senate District 41.

Joel Ford is seeking re-election to the N.C. Senate representing westside District 38. His opponent, Richard Rivette, will present at a later date.

LaTarzja Henry offers an “informercial” for the ballot question on a sales tax increase.

Judicial candidates on the November ballot.

Vi Lyles comments on issues at stake in Kay Hagan’s U.S. Senate re-election effort.

Lucy Inman, for 4 years a Superior Court judge, is running for a seat on the N.C. Court of Appeals.

Primary Election results in Mecklenburg.

Primary candidates Vince Coakley, Curtis Osborne, Antoine Ensley, Dondhi Burrell. Special election candidates Amelia Stinson-Wesley, Darrell Bonapart.

Dondhi Burrell is a candidate in the May 6 Democratic primary for the Commissioners District 2 seat.

Antoine Ensley is a candidate in the May 6 Democratic primary for the office of sheriff.

Curtis Osborne is a candidate in the May 6 primary for the U.S. House 12 seat vacated by Mel Watt.

Darrell Bonaparte is a candidate in the May 3 Democratic Party special election to fill the unexpired N.C. Senate 37 seat vacated by Dan Clodfelter.

Amelia Stinson-Wesley is a candidate in a Democratic Party special election on May 3 for the N.C. Senate seat vacated by Dan Clodfelter.

Vince Coakley is a candidate in the May 6 Republican primary for the U.S. House District 12 seat.

District 12 U.S. Congress candidates George Battle, Leon Threatt and Malcolm Graham.

Irwin Carmichael is in the May 6 Democratic primary for Sheriff.

Vilma Leake is in the May 6 primary seeking another term on the County Commissioners.

Matt Newton is a candidate in the May 6 Democratic primary for N.C. Senate District 40.

Nasif Majeed is a candidate in the May Democratic primary for N.C. Senate 40.

Morris McAdoo is a candidate in the May 6 primary for N.C. Senate District 40.

Yolanda Trotman is a candidate in November for District Court judge.

Elisa Chinn Gary is a candidate in the November election for Clerk of Superior Court.

Ella Scarborough is a candidate in the May 6 primary for an at-large seat on the Board of County Commissioners.

Kim Ratliff is a candidate in the May 6 primary for an at-large seat on the Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners.

Elaine Powell is a candidate in the May 6 primary for an at-large seat on the Board of County Commissioners.

Trevor Fuller is a candidate in the May 6 primary for an at-large seat on the Board of County Commissioners.

Pat Cotham is a candidate in the May 6 primary for an at-large seat on the County Commissioners.

Joyce Waddell is a candidate in the May 6 primary for N.C. Senate District 40.

Ty Turner is a candidate in the May 6 Democratic primary for N.C. Senate District. 40.

Primary election season has begun. Here’s an index to candidates who addressed the Forum.

Election 2013 results.

Charlotte mayoral candidates Edwin Peacock and Patrick Cannon addressed the Forum separately.

Candidates for City Council addressed the Forum.

City Council candidates Al Austin, Vi Lyles, Mark Frietch, Dennis Peterson, Michael Barnes, Dave Howard, Ken Harris.

Primary election winners and leaders.

Four Democratic candidates for Charlotte mayor address their differences.

Edwin Peacock, in a Sept. 10 GOP Charlotte mayoral primary, and at-large City Council GOP candidate Dennis Peterson.

A post-election comment: N.C. Rep. Martha Alexander.

N.C. Sen.-elect Joel Ford’s post-election comments.

Election results

Three candidates for U.S. Congress, two for the 12th District, one for the 9th District.

Hanks addresses questions about postings on a white supremacist web forum

Candidates for District Court discussed what they could about the courts and their preparation to serve.

The Judge Charlotte Brown-Williams-Tracy Hanna Hewett contest for a District Court seat.

The Judge Jena Culler-Grant Smithson contest for a District Court seat.

The Judge Ty Hands-Jeff Thompson contest for a District Court seat.

The David Strickland-Kary Church Watson contest for a District Court seat.

The Judge Donnie Hoover-Alyson G. Traw contest for a District Court seat.

The Gary Henderson-Roy H. Wiggins contest for an open DIstrict Court seatl.

Candidates for district seats on the Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners.

Oct. 2, 2012   Pat Cotham, commissioners at large   James Peterson, commissioners at large   Blanche Penn for Kim Ratliff, commissioners at large   Concluding remarks

Candidates for N.C. House, Senate address Forum.

N.C. Senate candidates Malcolm Graham, Jeff Tarte and Joel Ford addressed the Forum.

The U.S. Justice Department released a report on Minneapolis conditions that contributed to the 2020 murder of George Floyd, and its recommendations for reform.

Caleb Theodros was among the speakers as the Forum hosted a community discussion of how Rep. Tricia Cotham’s announced switch to the GOP may alter the balance of power between the legislative and executive branches.

Kristie Puckett-Williams told her story, and the story of hundreds of women incarcerated in North Carolina, who do not receive appropriate care when pregnant.

Faith Triggs, a volunteer with the Vote Yes for City Bonds Committee, led off a discussion of what’s in the Nov. 8 city bond referendum package.

Congresswoman Alma Adams gave an update on work that Congress has been doing, and her efforts to bring factions together to serve the American people.

Community Relations held a virtual session on its Americans With Disabilities Act Transition Plan.

County Tax Assessor Ken Joyner explained how NC law limits action to protect homeowners in gentrifying neighborhoods from crushing tax bills.

City Manager Marcus Jones, left, and Mayor Vi Lyles fielded questions from constituents impatient for conditions to improve in underserved westside neighborhoods.

Longtime city and county leader Ella Scarborough has died, the Observer reported.

A report from library staff runs down ways in which racist attitudes and policies have shaped Mecklenburg County.

Alysia Osborne, left, and Interim Planning Director Alyson Craig gave an update on the city’s 2040 Plan.

Court of Superior Court Elisa Chinn-Gary says she has reconsidered, and will file for re-election.

District Court Judge Rickye McKoy-Mitchell announced her retirement effective next September.

Elisa Chinn-Gary, a 20-year veteran of the Mecklenburg courts, won’t seek re-election as Clerk of Superior Court.

A ceremony marked the retirement of Superior Court Judge Donnie Hoover.

Assistance with heating bills available this winter to low-income families.

Sen. Natasha Marcus, head of the Mecklenburg legislative delegation, reviewed successes and challenges in Raleigh.

Hannah Terrell, left, led a discussion of how the library system stays open to serve its users in the community – and nation.

Details on an FCC program offering help with affording broadband services.

Center City Partners is seeking public comment on its 2040 plan.

Chief Public Defender Kevin Tully outlined the work of 60 lawyers and support staff defending Mecklenburg citizens in court.

County Manager Dena Diorio gave an update on COVID, the county’s new budget, the struggle to properly shelter and support people evicted from a tent encampment, and the recasting of all county programs to support equity and justice.

Dr. Rebecca Tippett, left, presented material on the 2020 Census, and what information will be released in August.

District Attorney Spencer Merriweather outlines the challenges faced by the local judicial system during Covid.

Robert Dawkins, left, described how knocking on doors boosted Census accuracy, and how Action NC uses the same tools to influence decisions by government.

Sheriff Garry McFadden, left, on Covid crisis, Elizabeth City, and how Mecklenburg citizens can support residents returning from custody.

U.S. Rep. Alma Adams, left, discussed the American Rescue Plan, American Jobs Plan and the Ignite HBCU Excellence Act.

CMPD Chief Johnny Jenning’s statement following the verdict in the Derek Chauvin trial in the death of George Floyd.

CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings, left, and Jonathan Chow discussed policing and safety in Charlotte.

City Council member Malcolm Graham, left and Corridors of Opportunity Project Manager Cherie Smith give an update on Beatties Ford Road corridor projects.

Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles, left, and County Board Chair George Dunlap addressed homeless, Covid-19 issues and answered questions.

James Mitchell says he will resign from Charlotte City Council due to his upcoming part ownership of Leeper Construction.

CATS has provided maps for proposed alternate routes for construction of the Silver Line light rail line from Gaston County to Matthews with a possible extension into Union County.

Taiwo Jaiyeoba described his efforts to reorient multiple streams of planning documents into a single comprehensive plan to guide the future of Charlotte’s growth.

George Grandy, left, and Robert Dawkins focused on how the formal U.S. Census process and grassroots efforts are linking up to encourage participation.

Veteran Democratic strategist Sam Spencer explained his opposition to the ballot referendum on increasing the Mecklenburg sales tax to fund arts, parks and education.

Commissioners Chair George Dunlap makes his case for voter support of a ballot proposal to raise the sales tax.

Zhivi Williams, left, and Dr. Yolanda Holmes reported on efforts to overcome lack of diversity and resources on the Women’s Advisory Board to fulfill a role of advising Mecklenburg County Commissioners.

Vilma Leake was invited to address the Forum.

County Manager reviewed major planks of her proposed budget on which Commissioners will begin taking straw votes next week.

Mayor Vi Lyles, left, City Manager Marcus Jones and CMPD Police Chief Kerr Putney answer questions about release of video of police shooting.

During his Feb. 19 Forum presentation, Sheriff McFadden made a specific suggestion of how congregations could help support people leaving detention.

George Dunlap, left and Garry McFadden discuss Mecklenburg issues.

A panel led by District Attorney Spencer Merriweather discussed the vision for a Mecklenburg-wide Family Support Center to assist victims of domestic violence.

Jean Leier and Warren Cooksey offered an update on the I-77 express lanes and other toll roads in North Carolina.

Fire Chief Reginald Johnson, left, joined Mayor Vi Lyles and Community Relations Director Willie Ratchford in discussing the city’s response to Hurricane Florence. Forum members made suggestions for additional improvements in emergency response.

Stacey Carless, left, and Adam Sotak reviewed how the results of the 2020 Census will affect the funding for government programs.

Kerr Putney, left, and Willie Ratchford asked Forum participants to help them reach small community groups who might be assisted in their work by the second phase of the city’s micro-grant program.

CMPD’s Shawn Ward helped Forum participants wrestle with a few of the issues facing police officers as they serve the community.

Kareem Puranda suggests that all police officers go through mental health training, in the name of a better, more sensitized police force.

Lisa Crawford presented the details of how turning your driver’s license into a federally approved REAL ID will save time at airports in 2020.

City staff brought to the Forum by Council member Greg Phipps faced a range of questions about city’s budget.

Trial Court Administrator Charleston Carter.

At-large Charlotte City Council member James Mitchell offered an update on a variet\y of city programs, mostly turning on economic development.

Six women serving as judges on the Mecklenburg bench discuss their roles, their joy in their work, and how they cope with the stresses of that work.

Three who serve in local government positions discuss how they work to encourage others to do so.

Toni Tupponce and Candice Rorie outlined how the metropolitan area sets its longterm transportation project goals.

Spencer Merriweather introduced himself as Mecklenburg’s new District Attorney and made some news.

Carlenia Ivory talks about what she has learned during her months of service representing District 2 on Charlotte City Council.

Rep. Rodney Moore discussed need to form “common agenda” among local, state bodies to address community issues.

Commissioner Pat Cotham comments on need for local governments to work together.

Appointed Council member Carlenia Ivory answers questions about whether she is prepared to serve on city committees

Toni Tupponce engages the public in long-range transportation planning. She shares advice on how to help influence those decisions.

Philip Freeman, left, and Tommy Burch share information on the city’s Neighborhood Matching Grants Program.

City Manager Marcus Jones presented an overview of his budget, which went to City Council May 1.

Jay Privette presents the case against current construction of toll lanes on I-77, and system that may add such lanes elsewhere in Mecklenburg.

U.S. Rep. Alma Adams asserted setback after setback as the GOP-dominated Congress goes to work.

N.C. Sen. Joel Ford reported on legislative action on HB2, defended using compromise to achieve some progress

Two grandparents make a pitch for a carbon tax to sustain Earth for future generations.

County Manager Dena Dioro gave an update on issues facing the county.

Elisa Chinn-Gary described her life and how it has shaped her tenure since 2014 as Clerk of Mecklenburg Superior Court.

Willie Ratchford discussed a recent officer-involved shooting. Other public officials explored wide gaps between budget priorities of local governments and the priorities of residents in the room.

Four elected officials representing Charlotte voters at city, county and legislative levels offered updates.

The Community Relations Committee’s Crisis Response Sub-Committee reported on work to rework the rules for community crisis response and to become “a comprehensive alternative sentencing body for Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department officers.”

Delores Johnson Hurt explained the work of the League of Women Voters.

Police Chief Kerr Putney and Officer J.D. Williams explained efforts to educate all about how to handle police stops.

Presenters explained a Charlotte survey on the city’s tree canopy, and the reach and limitations of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

County Manager Dena Diorio brought key staffers to the Forum to let them explain the county’s work.

Greg Phipps, city staff and other City Council members helped present a briefing on Charlotte’s proposed budget.

LaWana Mayfield gave an impromptu update on a community meeting on the city budget, and developments on West Boulevard corridor.

Joel Ford offered an update on issues likely to come up in the legislative short session beginning Monday.

An Open Forum began with a discussion of H.B. 2, the “Public Facilities Privacy & Security Act.”

Five trailblazers on the early years of African-American participation in local government, and the work yet to be done.

Delegation of mayors from Albania explain their U.S. visit.

Four African-American women who went first reflect on where they’ve been, and where things stand today.

Kevin Tully explained the role public defenders play in making the criminal justice system work for all.

Alysia Osborne outlined work undertaken by Historic West End Initiative; legislative leaders reported on the concluded session, and on efforts to inspire voter turnout.

Open Forum included comments by Commissioners Chair Trevor Fuller about the difficult community issues that lie ahead.

Mecklenburg legislators give an update on the recently completed General Assembly session in Raleigh.

County Manager Dena Diorio reported on leadership changes, renovations and reorganizations.

Rhonda Foxx announces a Sept. 1 community forum at Rep. Alma Adams’ Charlotte office.

Kerr Putney, new Charlotte-Meclenburg Chief of Police, spotlights the need for officers to know their community.

Staff and City Council members explained transit plans for Charlotte, and the financing difficulties ahead.

Mecklenburg Republicans say the party is changing with the passing of a generation.

Retiring CMPD Chief Rodney Monroe and District Attorney Andrew Murray.

Vi Lyles, David Howard and Michael Barnes lay out differences on city budget vote.

Officers from Mecklenburg, 12th District and 9th District Democratic Parties outlined party strategy.

Joel Ford issues a call for black elected officials to work together.

Darrell Gregory reviewed efforts by the Juvenile Crime Prevention Council to funnel assistance to groups making a real impact with at-risk juveniles.

Warren Cooksey and Jean Leier with an update on the N.C. project to add toll lanes on I-77.

City staff and elected officials offer a primer in Manager Ron Carlee’s city budget proposal.

Four commissioners address county issues of the day, including elections, budgets, social mobility.

Vi Lyles explains Council thinking on moving garbage collection costs to the property tax.

Members of the Mecklenburg delegation to the N.C. General Assembly, including Sen. Jeff Tarte pictured, reviewed issues pending during the current session.

LaWana Mayfield and David Howard offered explanations of LGBT vote on City Council, and how allegations of price gouging during CIAA are being dealt with.

Charlotte City Manager Ron Carlee discusses his role, the high-profile issues on the city’s agenda, and how he came to see city government as a tool for justice.

Elected leaders at local and state levels offered comments about the issues of 2015.

Noise abatement area around Charlotte’s airport is reportedly about to be reduced in size.

The median in a portion of Beatties Ford Road has undergone numerous redesigns to accommodate adjoining property owners. An exploration of the history.

George Dunlap argued that County Commissioners had a policy that anyone could be elected commissioners chairman, not just the top vote-getter.

Rodney Moore offers an update on an anti-racial profiling civil liberties bill he is committed to in the N.C. General Assembly.

Craig Winegardner and Sharon Hudson make case against I-77 toll lanes.

Rep. Rodney Moore offers a thank-you for support during the recently ended legislative session.

Marc Friedland outlines work in front of the Mecklenburg Democratic Party that he now chairs.

Sen. Malcolm Graham and Sen. Joel Ford collaborate on an update of legislative action.

Warren Cooksey discusses HOT lanes on I-77 as part of a DOT 101 presentation.

Joel Ford raises concerns about MBE participation rate at the N.C. Department of Transportation.

Joel Ford along with Rodney Moore and Malcolm Graham offered a Raleigh Report.

Trevor Fuller on November referendum to increase sales tax, chiefly to pay for a teacher salary boost.

Trevor Fuller on county budget and fall referendum on sales tax hike to boost teacher pay.

Judge Theo Nixon comments on changes in N.C. law related to fracking and resale of guns used in crimes.

Randy Harrington leads a presentation on the Charlotte operating budget and community investment plan.

County Manager Dena Diorio on the current budget process.

Dan Clodfelter asks for support the day before he begins an appointive term as Charlotte mayor.

Hagan Senate campaign political director Douglas Wilson assesses the campaign.

Trevor Fuller discusses leadership changes on the Mecklenburg County board.

N.C. Rep. Becky Carney offered an extemporaneous argument that policy opinion drives public policy.

Rep. Rodney Moore discusses the General Assembly’s budget,.

Anthony Foxx resigned as Mayor of Charlotte; Patsy Kinsey elected to fill remaining months of term.

N.C. Rep. Rodney Moore outlined his view of how Democrats could return to power in the N.C. General Assembly by 2018.

Mayor Pro Tem Patrick Cannon says only that he is “considering” mayor’s race.

John White and Bernice Feaster share spotlight at Forum.

Mayor Pro Tem Patrick Cannon’s statement on errors and misleading statements in coverage of airport authority proposal.

Ken Koontz has available for sale two DVDs on the Obama era. Here are two short excerpts.

Becky Carney’s Raleigh Report for Feb. 18

Anthony Foxx on the State of the City

Rep. Kelly Alexander on literacy tests, Art Pope and more.

LaWana Mayfield on City Council’s decision to fill afterschool program budget gap.

Cogdell: ‘We have a polarizing state of our nation’

City Council’s LaWana Mayfield: “We need to hear from the community.”

Dan Clodfelter offered an appreciation of N.C. Sen. Charlie Dannelly, who will retire after the November election.

2012 Convention Host Committee Executive Director Dan Murrey announced that Belk Theater would be a gathering spot during the presidential acceptance speech.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Chief of Police Rodney Monroe offered the general outlines of the security preparations for the Democratic National Convention, and answered questions.

Mayor Anthony Foxx discusses the DNC, city capital needs, growth, homelessness, and his own political future.

Carrie Cook discussed some of the work of the Federal Reserve toward financing businesses, consumer protection and community development.

Sherrell Dorsey, once based in Charlotte, has announced the unplugging of “The Plug,” an online chronicler of Blacks in the tech industry.

Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority CFO Anthony Shelborne explains the group’s outreach to area companies for help with venue hospitality.

Traletta Banks, left, was one of four entrepreneurial minds in different economic sectors explaining their challenges, and seeing opportunities to work together.

Frances Hall recounts her struggle to bring training in the construction trades to young people who turn their new skills into gainful employment.

Cheryse Terry shared the story of how life events led her to the successful creation of a new Black-owned coffee shop and gathering place on Beatties Ford Road.

An overview of the Growing Business category.

Book review by Daniel Souleles , left, may offer a routine-stopping opportunity to think about how systems can hurt people.

A study tracks the implications of continuing inequities in entrepreneurial opportunity.

John McDonald created at LaSalle and Beatties Ford a community meeting spot. The building’s new owner is seeking historic status for the site.

Steven Coker was among City of Charlotte staffers describing efforts to include minority-owned firms in city contracting.

Guide published to the 20-some murals along Beatties Ford Road.

Kevin Price, left, led the Durham-based National Institute of Minority Economic Development in a review of their work in a five-state area.

Rachelle Latimer, left, has pursued an entrepreneurial path to success. Her words may be inspiring to those who are committed, driven and hungry.

CEO Teddy McDaniel, left, and COO Dr. Fahnie Shaw discuss how the Urban League is targeting economic gaps and employment opportunities.

Chris Dennis says he listens to the community, hires off the street and in doing so is revitalizing the Beatties Ford Road corridor.

Dr. Shanté Williams described her work as an angel investor and as head of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Black Chamber of Commerce.

Ralphine Caldwell reviews the initial months in the Charlotte work of Local Initiatives Support Corp.

Najah Roberts, chief visionary officer for Crypto Blockchain Plug, believes cryptocurrency will affect everyone, whether or not they invest in Bitcoin or other digital products.

Marvin Kelly described Goodwill Industries’ training and other missions and answered questions.

Michael Norman is using his electrical contractor business to give young people a chance for a steady job.

Derek Webber recounted his efforts to keep his company’s Battle of the Bands in Charlotte, only to leave for Houston.

Ervin Bryson introduced his Carolina Energy arena football team and invited the public to attend games and get to know the team better.

Keysha Walker Taylor outlined the investments being made by the African American Community Foundation in Charlotte’s black community.

Jesse Cureton described his life from its beginnings in Southside Homes to the C-suite at Novant Health. Cureton talked about the One Charlotte project, and how Novant is finding ways to support the people left behind in a constantly upscaling city.

City Council member James Mitchell offers his view of why Charlotte lost the CIAA tournament.

Dr. Tonnia Thomas has a nonprofit ready to train people to work in hazardous waste and environmental cleanup projects.

David Sharp, left, joined Patrick Cannon in a discussion of how Sharp’s firms are funneling capital to entrepreneurs who are building businesses.

Shanté Williams, left, and Lambert Guinn are two young professionals making their marks on their native Charlotte.

Toni Tupponce reviewed efforts by A Sign of the Times to preserve and share the history of the peoples of the African Diaspora.

Rickey Hall outlines what it takes to promote neighborhood uplift, based on his experience along West Boulevard.

Sherrell Dorsey closed out Women’s History Month, sharing her story of combining her many different interests and skills to blaze a trail for African-Americans in technology.

Rachelle Latimer describes highway contracting work as a difficult business that can be daunting for newcomers.

CIAA Commissioner Jacquie McWilliams made a presentation about the upcoming CIAA tournament in Charlotte.

Tiffany Capers from the Charlotte Post Foundation presented material shared at Black LIves Matter Charlotte presentations.

Lots of speakers took advantage of Open Forum to raise issues for community discussion.

Jason (Jet) Jones brought his teacher (Maria Macon), his singing, his videos and his enthusiasm for an entrepreneurial approach to the world.

CIAA staff present on the upcoming basketball tournament in Charlotte

QCityMetro profiles J’Tanya Adams’ work spearheading Saturday’s Internet and Computer Bazaar to provide more low-income families access to the Internet.

Entrepreneurial business owners and executives share some of their experiences.

Jeremiah Chapman calls on a multiracial audience to participate in rebuilding the Briar Creek Road Baptist Church as a multiracial act of unity.

H. Allen Smith, who left CMS last spring and became chief of schools in Oakland, Calif., keynoted Charlote’s Growing the Dream Awards presentation.

Trevor Fuller describes the task ahead for a task force asked to find ways to make families in poverty more upwardly mobile.

Fannie Flono, who both attended and presented at the Forum, retires. Excerpts from comments at a retirement party.

Council member Vi Alexander Lyles addresses gentrification issue in Charlotte.

University Park residents oppose city rezoning for motel

The Kinsey Collection, art and artifacts of the African-American experience, opens June 29 at the Gantt Center.

Kaa Ma’at outlined her effort to acquire a low-power FM station license to serve west Charlotte.

Juneteenth founder Pape Ndiaye laid out financial support needed for Independence Park event.

Miss Queen City, TyNia Rene’ Brandon, sings from a repetoire that will take her to the Miss North Carolina pageant.

The Gantt Center: An update from Director of Advancement Tiffany L. Graham and Marketing Specialist Sharon Holm.

There’s help for those lost in the labyrinth called Health Insurance Coverage. Deadlines in both Medicare and Obamacare programs are looming.

Varnell Bien-Aime discusses his work with Reggie Singleton at The Males Place, a 30-year project to help guide teenaged boys toward a healthy and responsible adulthood.

A panel of school bond advocates and CMS’s top facilities planner fielded questions about the bond campaign, its potential to hasten gentrification, and whether there is buy-in from all governmental and other units to reverse the economic decline of westside neighborhoods.

CMS Superintendent Dr. Crystal L. Hill began with the family that shaped her, made a case that students are making up for lost time during the pandemic, and expressed a commitment to be the communicator-in-chief with the school district’s multiple constituencies that she will serve.

Sharon Geter, left, and Elizabeth Colen shared details of barriers they have faced in reaching their business objectives.

Longtime CMS observer Bolyn McClung offers state data illustrating persistent achievement gaps between schools.

Dr. Alyssa M. Burns and her Accellacare team explained clinical drug trials and their key role in assessing drugs’ usefulness and value in improving quality of life.

Dr Tempest Leake, whose second son has autism, was on a panel discussing a brain impairment that affects each person differently, but often leads to impaired verbal skills.

Four nurses who were pioneers in the desegregation of their profession and local hospitals recall the struggle.

Dr. Monique May commented on foods and cooking methods and how people might eat more heathfully.

Four of the six CMS board members elected from districts discussed what’s on the table, both as they meet and as they huddle one-on-one to find a way forward for children.

Alumni of Mecklenburg’s Black schools gathered to share with younger generations why they think they thrived, despite the racism and inequities that surrounded them.

Mic Alexander trains work groups and individuals on how to read the room and respond appropriately even as stress mounts.

Daisha Wall presented the work of CleanAIRENC to gather the data that can pressure polluters to help make westside neighborhoods healthier places to live.

A longtime observer of North Carolina public policy comments on the key role of public education in action to “alleviate poverty and propel upward mobility.”

The N.C. Supreme Court handed down a decision outlining a path toward ordering new state financing to ensure a sound basic education for all children.

Dr. Victor Mack led a discussion of pre-college programs for youth supported both by UNCC and the 100 Black Men of Greater Charlotte organization.

Raymond ‘Raki’ McGregor is among Charlotte Executive Leadership Council members working inside CMS to improve student outcomes.

Aug. 1 opens application period for annual applications for free- and reduced-price lunches for some CMS families.

CMS is seeking advice on redrawing attendance boundaries for more than a dozen schools effective in fall 2023.

Jared Keaton, CEO of Alliance Center for Education, outlined how the former Bethlehem Center is shaping Charlotte’s future.

CMS CTE Director Susan Gann-Carroll outlined successes and challenges in offering all teens a way to find a niche for their skills and interests in the post-secondary world.

The plan for the next school bond issue: Will it get the attention it deserves?

Shamaiye Haynes, left, and Men Tchaas Ari presented the Community Learning Centers concept being pursued by their respective organizations.

Forum participants discuss the future of CMS, in light of school board’s decision to fire Supt. Earnest Winston.

A permanent program to subsidize Internet access fees is now available to low-income households.

Bea Thompson led a discussion of health and wellness challenges affecting Black women in particular, and how to address them.

Barbara Ledford, former West Charlotte High principal and inspiration to many of her students, died Dec. 30.

Jennifer De La Jara, left, and Betty Howell Gray led a discussion of challenges facing the community’s children, their teachers and CMS.

Charlotte-based Profound Gentlemen issued an annual report on its educator support efforts.

Dr. Raynard Washington, incoming health director, reports on Omicron variant and projects under way at the Mecklenburg Health Department.

Influential physician and community leader Dr. Ophelia Garmon-Brown has died.

Read Charlotte report shows signs of hope for reading interventions to improve pandemic-dampened literacy skills.

Alexandra Arrington outlined how Digital Navigators help mend the digital divide, one person at a time.

Dr. Ricky Woods, left, and Dr. Dennis Williams outlined how their Faith Alliance is not getting answers from CMS about efforts to help struggling schoolchildren.

C.W. Williams Community Health Center has relocated medical services to Old Pineville Road while Wilkinson Boulevard building is replaced.

Dr. Kendra Jason, left, and Dr. Julian Montoro-Rodriguez outlined the support available from a UNCC program aimed at both paid and volunteer caregivers.

Thomas Osha from Baltimore developer Wexford helped Atrium Health’s Gene Woods explain to county officials their plans for an innovation district on urban renewal land north of Dilworth.

Supt. Earnest Winston outlined plans under way to help children catch up from pandemic learning loss.

Stephanie Sneed led a Black Political Caucus Q&A with Supt. Earnest Winston and other CMS officials.

Read Charlotte’s Munro Richardson leads a discussion on how organizations are collaborating to address reading achievement gaps.

A “massive community response” is needed to rescue young readers from effects of pandemic, Read Charlotte says.

Officials from Atrium Health and their real estate development partner, Wexford Science & Technology, shared some initial information about the Wake Forest/Atrium medical school project.

Land under the future med school was once home to some of the maids and orderlies, pressers and yardmen who helped build the City of Charlotte and nurture the medical colossus named Atrium.

CMS Board Chair Elyse Dashew and other school board members fielded questions about the upcoming startup of CMS schools.

Improving middle grade education should focus on the adults, not the schoolhouse grade structures, report says.

Former CMS Board Chair Arthur Griffin and County Board Chair George Dunlap collaborated on an analysis of Critical Race Theory.

Gwen Forney, left, spoke about reaching bored children. Others pursued other Covid-related issues at today’s Open Forum.

Janice Shirley led a group of advocates who are passionate about getting support to people living with AIDS.

UNC System President Peter Hans reported to his board July 22, and in the report he reflected on the tenure debate surrounding journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones.

In 2 minutes, Arthur Griffin outlines a way forward on three contentious issues facing the CMS Board of Education.

Mediation has ended the latest dispute between Mecklenburg commissioners and CMS over student outcomes and CMS policies.

Vivian Stuart, left, and Reggie Singleton discuss the Rosa Parks Farmers Market and The Males Place.

Retired CMS Supt. Jim Pughsley joins Diorio in critique of CMS leadership.

Arthur Griffin Jr., left, shared data showing the crisis in education of Black children, and argued that school leaders are evading responsibility for the system’s failures to meet legal requirements.

Pandemic’s toll on high school learning proficiency exposed in fall 2020 test scores.

CMS Board Chairperson Elyse Dashew, left, and Supt. Earnest Winston gave an update on calendars, success in giving every student Internet access, a summer “camp” to help children make up for lost time, and how long it may take to get student proficiency back on track.

N.C. leader of COVID-19 pandemic response encourages all to get vaccinated.

President Trump announced that he and First Lady Melania Trump had tested positive for the coronavirus.

COVID-19 updates were from the NC Dept. of Health & Human Services and the Mecklenburg County Manager.

County Manager Dena Diorio’s COVID-19 update.

Monika Rhue makes a plea that people let others in the community know all the good that people are doing during this coronavirus pandemic.

Links to coronavirus resources from area governments and agencies.

A large medical practice shared this information about the caronavirus pandemic with its Meckenburg patients today.

Dr. Tuwanda Williamson, left, will help open the first Oak Street Health clinic catering to adults on Medicare.

A large crowd, including longtime educator Ceretha Sherrill, left, contributed to a discussion of issues still to be dealt with after the resignation of CMS Supt. Clayton Wilcox.

CMS Board Vice Chair Elyse Dashew read a lawyer vetted statement about the suspension of CMS Supt. Clayton Wilcox.

Greg Schermberg sent in a video about his company’s efforts to support family nights at two nearby schools.

Crystal Rountree introduces herself, and a more diverse Teach For America corps now operating in CMS schools.

Details here on free summer meals in some CMS schools and elsewhere.

Janet Harmon and Cory Pharr outlined Smart Start early childhood initiatives, and the new Meck Basics program aimed at growing brains aged 0-3.

Monika Rhue shared plans for a Johnson C. Smith University exhibit on the history of the Beatties Ford Road corridor now undergoing substantial change.

Sonja Chisolm, left, Avice Pretty and Dr. Trasha Black are helping their clients rebuild their lives.

Dr. Diane Bowles from JCSU discusses books published by the university.

Robin Tolliver-Ayotunde offered a primer on basic insurance concepts, and promoted looking at options annually.

Vakala explains a theory of “cultural strategy” that he is developing.

Munro Richardson reviews communitywide efforts to help struggling readers.

Three speakers added their perspectives on how to wrap children in what they need to thrive

Clarence D. Armbrister, recently named president of Johnson C. Smith University, set out his goals for the HBCU.

Teddy McDaniel explains Urban League training initiatives and reaches out for help filling the group’s classes.

Blood donations help patients like Robert White manage sickle cell disease. More donations are needed.

Fostoria Pierson and other members of Blue Star Mothers talk about the sacrifices made by military families, and how the organization allows them to support one another.

Panel discusses how science now understands the linkage between adverse childhood experiences and both behavioral and physical challenges among those children.

CMS Supt. Clayton Wilcox answers questions after presentation of data confirming the achievement gaps that linger at CMS schools.

Three women whose organizations are serving the elderly.

Four staffers describe programs to help children. All need volunteers to achieve their goals.

Terri Joelle portrays Queen Charlotte as a tour guide and teacher of local and royal history

J’Tanya Adams led a presentation on how CMS and nonprofits are working to get all students reliable Internet access at home.

Dr. Yolanda Holmes and others make pitch for support of CMS #InvestInTheWest effort to assist struggling students.

Supt. Clayton Wilcox fields questions on day that the Vote Yes for School Bonds committee made their pitch.

Dr. Jessica Schorr Saxe presented a program on how single-payer, or Medicare for all, could work.

LaToya Purvis, head of school at UpROAR Leadership Academy, describes plans for first year at new quasi-military charter school.

Gibbie Harris outlines the path forward for the Mecklenburg County Health Department.

Dr. Betty Howell Gray and others explain an August forum designed to encourage parent engagement.

Emmanuel “Manny” Ohonme’s big break started with a pair of shoes. Now he’s giving back.

Four people presented material on upcoming summer camps for youth.

Gerald Baucom presented on Campus Connections’ efforts to prepare teens and parents to choose a college path that will sustain teens’ dreams.

CMS DIstrict 2 representative Thelma Byers-Bailey with an update on where CMS board is going.

Dawn Hill, Dr. Yolanda Holmes and David Jessup teamed up to showcase the April 20 Charlotte Career Discovery Day.

CMS gathers in pupil assignment surveys, explains assignment review.

Darrell Allison makes case for broadening school choice to include parents of all incomes.

Ron Carter celebrated JCSU’s successes during his presidency, and worried over the country’s future

Dr. Clayton Wilcox, incoming CMS Superintendent, introduces himself.

Nancy Carter offered a way to boost mentoring in the schools by young people.

Sydney Culver, left, of Commonwealth High, and Ismael Villafane of Stewart Creek High School described their ventures.

Nakisa Glover reports on conference on revitalizing environmentally vulnerable communities.

Longtime broadcaster Bea Thompson describes the work of Inner Vision, a mental health nonprofit.

Trevor Fuller suggested the first step on addressing issues behind last week’s Charlotte unrest should be universal access to pre-kindergarten.

CMS Board of Education member Thelma Byers-Bailey issued a call to action to protest the possible sale of the former Double Oaks School.

Ericka Ellis-Stewart offers CMS data on the thousand or so children in PK-2nd grades subjected to out-of-school suspensions.

Supt. Ann Clark reviewed recently released achievements, invited community participation in increasing reading/mentoring goals.

Charles Thomas of the Knight Foundation and Sharon Harrington of Reading Partners discuss upcoming work.

Erin Nicole Barksdale introduced herself as the principal who will open Renaissance West K-8 in August 2017.

Ceretha Sherrill said she is encouraging CMS to add education about the law to the curriculum.

Google and Read Charlotte officials discuss goals for their programs, and how they are working together.

Latasha McIlwaine, left, and two other health service providers addressed the Forum.

Dream Builders CEO Kenston Griffin uses this exercise to help adults understand how children learn.

Dream Builders Communications and Profound Gentlemen offered ideas on what works to improve schools.

Elana Congress discussed health programs at Care Ring; Eric Montgomery discussed estate planning.

Debra Weeks led an update on rebuilding the C.W. Williams Community Health Center.

Carlenia Ivory describes a project working with 21 high school students and their families.

CMS Board Chair Mary McCray offered an update on assignment and the superintendent search.

Charlotte Post covers latest developments in revival of C.W. Williams Community Health Center.

Brenda Robinson gave this update on the area visits by the Traveling Space Museum and NASA Space Camp.

Dorothy Counts-Scoggins and Bonita Caldwell shared their experiences with leadership.

CMS Supt. Ann Clark and CMS Foundation Executive Director Sonja Gantt.

Blanche Penn: “I’m a freedom fighter.”

Lucy Bush Carter describes the work and needs of Charlotte’s meals-on-wheels program.

James Ford with an update on his job at the N.C. Public School Forum, and a defense of helping children, not blaming them for the lack of support from home.

Carlenia Ivory issued an appeal for turnout at a CMS Policy Committee meeting.

Former CMS principal Ken Simmons says “bad” schools” serving minority students can be fixed “overnight.”

CMS officials pitch participation in student assignment survey.

Take the community online survey designed to assist the school board redesign CMS student assignment.

Five speakers including Kayla Romero argued OneMeck’s case for schools that work for all children.

Dr. Deborah Walker summarized her four-day presentation on diversity, multiculturalism, equity and inclusion.

Brenda Robinson, an African-American “first,” uses her aviation experience to give back to young people.

Care Ring navigator Elana Congress summarizes upcoming deadlines under Affordable Care Act.

Carlenia Ivory and Dr. Yolonda Holmes make plea for mentors at West Meck High.

Terrell Ivory discusses his recruitment of minority students to Phillips Academy in Massachusetts.

News outlets report on C.W. Williams Health Center audit going to commissioners.

Queen Thompson on why CMS is naming a new school for her grandfather, Lawrence Orr.

Ken Simmons led a group presentation on appoaches to education at majority-African American schools.

Local papers write about situation at C.W. Williams Community Health Center.

Janeen Bryant and six other candidates for CMS Board of Education.

N.C. Sen. Joel Ford claims CMS hiring freeze; Supt. Ann Clark says it applies only to teaching assistants.

Portia Motsapi thanks donors who helped raise tuition money for her first semester at JCSU.

Munro Richardson is in a listening phase as head of new Read Charlotte initiative to improve proficiency by third grade.

Three nonprofits collaborate to provide medical care and medications to those without other options.

Training is available from Mental Health America of Central Carolinas to help spot mental health issues among family, friends and colleagues.

Video of “A Dream Again Deferred?”, a look back and forward about how segregation and resegregation played out in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools.

Staff from Piedmont Health Services and Sickle Cell Agency described their efforts to assist sickle cell patients, and educate the public on disease.

An archive of material on the CMS budget, from various sources.

Tom Hanley on first year at Commonwealth High, a for-profit high school succeeding with dropouts.

Debra Weeks, new CEO of C.W. Williams Community Health Center.

Supt. Ann Clark on why she does what she does, on leadership, and on the issues of the day.

Connie Sessoms Jr. says CMS Driver’s Ed will reach fewer teens if fees rise to cover costs.

Mary McCray said the CMS school board would start by consulting the community as it begins the search for a new long-term superintendent.

Amid requests for mentoring and support, Forum participants raise questions about who’s in charge at West Charlotte High.

“Highlighting African-American Achievers” is Feb. 19-21.

Betty Howell Gray on Feb. 12-13 conference on “Educating Our Black Youth: A Community Responsibility”

Sandra Clory announced a Tai Chi class she is teaching at Myers Park Baptist Church.

Belk Foundation’s Johanna Anderson outlines 8-year project to have 80% of third-graders reading proficiently in 8 years.

Desmond Wiggan described investment services available from Primerica.

Nelson Adesegha on fallout from Chapter 11 filing at C.W. Williams Community Health Center.

Melanie Brown asked for volunteers to help West Charlotte High School place volunteer proctors for end-of-course testing in January.

Four Board of Education members take questions on events surrounding the resignation of CMS Supt. Heath Morrison.

LaTarzja Henry says CMS leaders will continue to make themselves available to answer questions in the community.

Terry Ellington and Lesha Dodson on HIV/AIDS in Charlotte and the Carolinas, and the work of Carolinas Care Partnership.

Nelson Adesegha and Laurissa Adams-Hunt, board members for ailing C.W. Williams Community Health Center, offered an update on the center’s “reorganization.”

Supt. Heath Morrison speaks on the eve of a citizen vote on a sales tax hike that could boost teacher pay.

John Crawford makes a pitch for the Charlotte Housing Authority Scholarship Fund.

Radio personality Travis “Church Boy” Gilliam headlines session on the perils of unacknowledged depression.

Lisa Barnes and LaTarzja Henry discuss changes under way in CMS designed to reduce student misbehavior.

Denada Jackson predicts another jump in graduation rate at West Charlottte High.

Daisy Spears Stroud dies at 92. An appreciation and two obituaries.

Thomas Hanley describes the goals of Commonwealth High, a charter set to open in August.

Parents and education: An Open Forum discussion of who’s responsible when Johnny can’t read, or doesn’t behave.

Velma Love describes the Lee Thompson Young Foundation’s aims to improve public awareness of mental health issues.

Megan Boler and Zachary Denard introduce the League of Conservation Voters.

Open Forum on testing at West Charlotte, on a Black Summit, on educating a captive audience.

Supt. Heath Morrison discusses CMS budget and impact on CMS of proposals before the legislature.

Sandra Conway and Elyse Dashew spearhead a letterwriting and petition drive to fully fund the CMS budget.

West Charlotte High School Global Perspective Studies proposed by first-year teachers Rachel Scott and Paige Laurain.

James Ford, a Garinger High world history teacher, is the 2014 N.C. Teacher of the Year.

Leon Burton, who became CEO of C.W. Williams Community Health Center April 1, joins Mark Batson and Laura McClettie in outlining efforts to sign people up for the Affordable Care Act.

Sylvia Grier is among interviews in WTVI feature about grandparents, even great-grandparents raising youngsters.

Akeshia Craven-Howell and others from CMS discuss N.C. charter school law and relations between CMS and the charters.

“West Charlotte High School Story” of ’96 re-aired in tribute to Leroy “Pop” Miller, who died March 1.

Sandra Clory on trip to Egypt and the Falasha or Ethopian Jews that her father called his people.

Millard House and others offered an update on New Leaders, the nonprofit that trains lateral entry and school personnel for leadership jobs.

T.D. Elder and Lillian Herron recall their years of nursing in Mecklenburg amid racism.

Arthur Griffin on “The Long Struggle for Equity in Education in NC,” joined by Richard McElrath and Sarah Stevenson.

StudentFirst Academy: An update

Supt. Heath Morrison spoke about the bond issue on Tuesday’s ballot.

CMS’s Allen Smith discusses how he is preparing for a November report on needs of westside schools.

MeckEd has named Sarah Stevenson its 2013 Education Champion.

Three speakers from different organizations focus on minority inclusion in the workplace.

Lathan Wood offers commentary on “disconnect” between Forum discussion and realities on local campuses.

Arthur Griffin discusses education trends, warns of possible two-tiered education system.

CMS school board member Joyce Waddell discusses year-round schools and the Common Core curriculum.

CMS School Board chair Mary McCray discusses the budget.

Allen Smith explains his task as CMS community superintendent for the Harding, Berry and West Meck areas.

Supt. Heath Morrison’s answers to six questions.

South Africa trip taken by students and adults: a report.

Dr. Frederick Grosse talks about Elon Homes and Schools for Children

Valaida Fullwood and Charles Thomas present at TEDxCharlotte about their book, “Giving Back.”

Whitni Wilson-Wertz, president of the Junior League of Charlotte, describes group’s program for youth health.

Experts describe a “system of care” surrounding a family whose child is in emotional crisis.

Toni Tupponce of A Sign of the Times of the Carolinas on what music can do to engage children in education.

Stacey Rose on her application for an N.C. charter for Charlotte Learning Academy.

Dr. Nicole Priestly heads Title 1 elementaries in CMS’s Central Zone.

CMS flier on town halls tied to the 22 task forces, including two in April announced today at the Forum.

Friendship Gardens mobile market to accept EBT cards.

Blanche Penn previews the Underground Railroad presentation and Black Inventions Exhibit at the Pruitt Rec Center.

Richard McElrath talks about upcoming CMS math tests, which will focus on word problems.

Statement on superintendent’s 8 goals

West Charlotte High Principal John Wall addresses Forum.

‘Cultural competency and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools’

Malachi Greene: He’s baaaaack!

Henry explains new role forging CMS partnerships with community groups.

New Leaders, the national organization helping train CMS principals and other leaders, explains its program.

Here’s what Ken Koontz said about cooperation among educational institutions during the New Leaders presentation.

Sheila Peltzer, an advocate for shared parenting custody laws, addressed the Forum.

Ursula Douglas on Nurse-Family Partnership

StudentFirst Academy charter: Plans for a window on the world

Beverly Irby, CEO of C.W. Williams Community Health Center, on upcoming changes in health care, Medicare, Medicaid.

Richard McElrath on linkage between housing policy and school success.

Ken Simmons on what it will to see West Charlotte High succeed.

Today’s student: A discussion focused on students at West Charlotte High School.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg education pioneer Kat Crosby dies.

L.I.F.T. may not use year-round calendar at all 9 schools, official says.

Ken Simmons on what it will take to end bullying.

Richard McElrath discussed housing, low-wealth neighborhoods and difficulties CMS faces educating all children.

CMS board member Joyce Waddell on need for attendance at Supt. Heath Morrison’s town hall meetings.

Richard McElrath discussed changes under way in CMS.

CMS staffers offered a briefing Tuesday on the federal Title I program and how Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools uses the funds to offer educational services to the targeted low-income children.

CMS Supt. Heath Morrison discussed what he’d seen in his first three months on the job.

Head of worker retraining effort says group is listening to employers’ needs.

Charity Bell addresses changes in the CMS Central Secondary Zone that she leads.

Ratasha Smith, advocacy co-chair of the Urban League Young Professionals group, explained some of the group’s work to encourage participation in community affairs.

Jessica Leflowitz, left, and Judith Brown have built small organizations doing big work with disability and homeless populations.

Three panelists lay out programs available to low-income households to assist with tax bills, energy expenses and renovation projects.

Robyn Lake Hamilton, named interim leader of the Central Carolinas Urban League last winter, laid out an agenda for the group that is both new and steeped in the national group’s history.

Valaida Fullwood announced Black Philanthropy Month and some events connected with that celebration.

Rachel Zwipf from Pottstown Heritage Group recounted efforts to stabilize and protect Huntersville’s historically Black neighborhood and its mostly senior residents from gentrification.

Shannon Burns, left, Laura Belcher and Julie Porter outlined issues behind the difficulty of building, financing and finding affordable housing in Charlotte.

Dennis Miller, left, and Travis Sheridan offered an update from developer Wexford Science & Technology on construction under way for Charlotte’s first medical school.

Ray High, left, is spearheading plans for a 2024 Charlotte Black Creative Arts Festival.

Jamese Ivy led a United Way update focused on upcoming deadlines for grant applications.

Sherri Chisholm and other staff from Leading on Opportunity returned to the Forum with an update on their work in the shadow of Raj Chetty’s “50th of 50” study on social mobility.

Chrystal Joy and Toni Tupponce from Lee Institute, working for county commissioners, listened for views on the impact on neighborhoods from large investor groups’ ownership of single-family homes.

Copeland Barbee and others from the Center for Digital Equity explained how a multi-partner project is putting laptops in the hands of people who need them, then training them through the move into the digital age.

Steve Crump, the veteran television journalist and documentarian, shared with the Forum his latest effort: “Andrew Young’s Datelines of Protest.”

Sandra Cummings, left, and three other women shared their experiences as trailblazers for other women as they broke into the male-dominated lawyer profession.

Charlene Price-Patterson, left, Debbie Mann Gibbs and Bea Thompson recounted the early years of women in Charlotte television.

Malcomb Coley presented an update on the Mayor’s Racial Equity Initiative, and discussed an economic development project using private dollars that has hit roadblocks.

Rep. Adams made a speech on the floor of the U.S. House about Black History Month.

Alesha Brown has hustled into existence a nonprofit focused on meeting seniors’ needs where they are, thereby shoring up fragile minority neighborhoods.

Kathryn Firmin-Sellers led a presentation from United Way about efforts to redirect diminished resources to emerging community needs through emerging community organizations.

Tara Vannoy, left, Ginny Harper and Carlo Battle presented material on financial aid available to families struggling with housing, utility and weatherization costs.

Valaida Fullwood recounted 15 years of the New Generation of African American Philanthropists and listed events planned to mark August’s Black Philanthropy Month.

Long before social media and GoFundMe, Laura McClettie and friends brought their community together through financial support of its endangered institutions.

LaToya Faustin, left, and Marion Pulse outlined a vision of bringing awareness of the trades to young children, when they begin matching their interests with the world of work.

Curt Peters, left, led four other Charlotte media people in looking at the past, present and future of coverage of the Black community.

Charis Blackmon explained the efforts by West Side Charlotte Land Trust to make homes affordabe in west side neighborhoods for the people who have long lived there are but face gentrification pressures.

Ginny Harper led a group presentation about assistance programs available to low-income residents.

Sherri Chisholm explained how Leading on Opportunity focused on a community response to easing barriers to social mobility will fit into the picture.

Mayor Vi Lyles’ Racial Equity Initiative took a $250 million turn Monday. A listing of media coverage.

Center City Partners and Historic West End are trying to mesh their planning visions for overcoming the split caused by I-77 in the 1970s.

Mecklenburg is making $340 grants available to qualified applicants to help them stay in their homes.

JCSU Archivist Brandon Lunsford outlined what’s ahead for a long-term project on Black Charlotte neighborhoods.

Keith Rivers, left, addressed the Forum about protests following the April 21 death of Andrew Brown Jr. in Elizabeth City.

Marcus Bass, left, from NC Black Alliance and Stephanie Sneed from the Black Political Caucus review efforts to activate black voters and create multi-ethnic political action.

Serita Russell, left, was lead plaintiff in the successful lawsuit over landlord malfeasance at Lake Arbor Apartments.

Black History Month 2021 is a compilation of posts featured daily on the front of this website, highlighting earlier Forum presentations and notable events from the Black experience.

April Benson, left, and Patricia Campbell described the upcoming Charlotte Black Film Festival; Paula Riddick collected surveys about hiring a new police chief.

Emiene Wright, left, and Katrina Louis discussed Westside Connect, a startup media project aimed at westside neighborhoods.

Susan Woods offered tips on how to create a federally recognized nonprofit, and then how to seek funding.

Winston Robinson, left, and Tera Long led discussion about westside equity and ambulance charges.

Brandon Lunsford shared Johnson C. Smith University’s interest in becoming an archive for West End Charlotte historical documents.

Dr. Debra C. Smith recounts the development of a publishing project telling the stories of women who served Charlotte during the civil rights era.

Constance Lav Johnson completed part of a presentation on grantwriting and fundraising.

DeAlva Wilson, left, presented at a session on redevelopment plans for the demolished Eastland Mall site.

Jessica Davis, left, and James Mitchell helped guide a Forum discussion of the future of the Historic Excelsior Club on Beatties Ford Road.

The decision to forgive the man who took his brother’s life set John C Barnett on a course of advocacy.

Malcolm Graham, left, led a panel discussing ways to move public opinion toward giving all people more protection from gun violence.

Lucille Puckett, left, and others raised community issues for discussion at Tuesday’s Forum.

Debbie Giibbs, left, and Tonya Rivens comment on the early days of local television news broadcasting.

Jan Valder, left, Martha Alexander, Sara Spencer and Mary Klenz described their efforts to move causes forward, and to support one another.

Ken Lemon, left, Brittney Johnson and Dedrick Russell explain the work of the Charlotte Area Association of Black Journalists.

Winston Robinson suggests a westside history museum focused on African-Americans’ contributions to Charlotte.

Karen Kovach, left, and Juanita Miller explained Changed Choices’ work with women returning from jail or prison.

Robert Dawkins, left, and Arthur Griffin challenge the notion of “civic engagement,” calling residents to much greater involvement in their democracy.

Former Excelsior Club owner Ken Koontz offered an update on the now-closed Beatties Ford Road nightclub.

Two advocates, one working on re-entry of prison inmates back into society, the other a critic of how schools fail to educate inner-city children, meet at the Forum table.

A conversation with Tamala Bullard, left, and five other women who serve the greater good.

Three women shared their approaches to success in nonprofit and for-profit businesses in Charlotte.

Five black women who were “firsts” in local elective leadership open Black HIstory Month.

The 2nd Annual Charlotte Women’s March.

LaWana Mayfield and Pam Wideman describe some of the tools available to the city to ensure that more Charlotte residents are in safe housing they can pay for.

Robert Dawkins outlined police review board changes, and made a plea to help people resolve differences without violence.

City program with area partners is retraining adults with barriers to employment.

Speakers at Open Forum discuss schooling, City Council and families caught in unsanitary housing.

Braxton Winston, left, on life after Lamont Scott protests; Ryan Emmanuel and Maura Chavez talked about their community relations work.

“Chatty Hattie” Leeper, trailblazing black woman in Charlotte radio, remembers days at WGIV radio.

Dr. Madeline McClenney-Sadler explains Exodus Foundation’s mentoring work with former inmates.

YMCA CEO Todd Tibbits lays out plans for effort to give 900 youth a safe place to play, learn and grow three evenings a week this summer.

County officials will re-dedicate a renovated West Charlotte Recreation Center on April 12.

Kerry Miller, left and three other women talked about their work with Charlotte area community-focused organizations.

Dr. Yolanda Holmes and her children Brooke and Darrell present a reflection on black history.

Nakisa Glover presented a program on how to engage young adults in longstanding community issues. Four CMPD community police officers joined the Q&A.

Willie Ratchford led groups through a discussion of race, police relations, and how the community needs to change.

Maria Macon and other members of the Community Relations Committee’s Council of Elder continue an Oct. 18 discussion of their work.

Patrick Graham, new CEO of Charlotte Works, and his team outlined work of the local workforce development board.

Leaders from Goodwill and Urban Ministry Center explain their work to help people move toward job success, better health, secure housing.

Tom Hanchett presented stories about the many African-American leaders of the civil rights and educational improvement movements who lived in McCrorey Heights.

Forum participants engaged in a discussion of issues raised by the Black Lives Matter movement.

Wali Molina, left, and others addressed an upcoming wellness expo, and how parents can find help with college expenses. Then there was discussion of last week’s painful events nationwide.

Fulton Meachem and Ken Szymanski, representing two powerful housing interests, discuss affordable housing opportunities in Charlotte.

Three development teams presented their plans for the Brooklyn Village redevelopment. BK Partners was selected Wednesday.

Two pastors discussed nontraditional ways in which they are working with their flock to improve Charlotte.

Tamika Lewis and Robert Dawkins describe efforts to engage youth in undertaking neighborhood improvements of their choosing.

An update on the renovation under way at West Charlotte Recreation Cetner

Justin Harlow’s March update for the Five Points Community Collaborative.

Bonita Caldwell, president of Beatties Ford Memorial Gardens, shared approaches to business leadership.

Elisa Chinn-Gary, Wilhelmenia Rembert and Queen Thompson: Three women who went first.

Juanita Miller, left, Carolyn Logan and Ken Koontz discussed making their way in organizations once closed to African-Americans.

Charles Thomas named program director for Knight Foundation in Charlotte.

Urban League CEO Dr. Patrick Graham on how League works inside for progress.

Co-chairs of the Opportunity Task Force explain what they’ve learned about economic mobility.

Charlotte Post outlines education workshops about upcoming Kwanzaa celebration.

Sean Garrett, six months into the top job at United Way of Central Carolinas, pitched community conversations and rebuilding action for community improvement.