Pride Magazine ~ Charlotte, NC

05/29/2026

The transformation of The Boardwalk at University Place is about more than a fresh look, it’s about building something meaningful.

Led by Red Hill Ventures, the once-struggling retail center is being reimagined into a vibrant lakefront destination with dining, shopping and year-round events. But the real focus? Relationships.

By partnering closely with local businesses, from favorites like Sol’Delish CLT to longtime staples, the vision is to create a connected, community-driven ecosystem where businesses support each other and thrive together.

With new investment, growing momentum and a shared vision, The Boardwalk is quickly becoming one of Charlotte’s most exciting places to gather, connect and experience something new.

05/27/2026

History made. 👏

Johnson C. Smith University has claimed its first-ever North Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities NCICU Ethics Bowl championship becoming the first HBCU to take home the title in the competition’s 15-year history.

Competing against 18 teams under the theme “Ethics in Leadership,” JCSU students brought thoughtful debate, powerful perspective and undeniable teamwork to the stage, ultimately defeating NC Wesleyan University in the final round.

More than a win, this moment highlights the depth of talent, leadership and excellence rising from 100 Beatties Ford Road and sets the stage for what’s next.

05/25/2026

If your eyes feel dry, tired or irritated, you’re not alone (and eye drops aren’t the only answer).

Our guest columnist, Dr. Paula Newsome of Advantage Vision Center, shares how modern, energy-based therapies are changing the way we treat dry eye.

From Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) to Radiofrequency (RF) and Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT), these non-invasive treatments work with your body to restore natural function, not just mask symptoms.

Paired with healthy habits like sleep, hydration and stress management, this approach can lead to longer-lasting relief and better overall eye comfort.

05/22/2026

At ESO Artisanal Pasta, it’s more than just pasta - it’s a story of culture, passion and perseverance.

Founded by AJ Sankofa and Kristina Gambarian, ESO blends global culinary roots with authentic Italian technique, creating a dining experience rooted in craft and connection. From Ukraine to Italy to Charlotte, their journey is built on love, hustle and a shared vision.

What started during the pandemic as a way to stay creative has grown into a thriving business at Optimist Hall, proving that when passion meets purpose, something special happens. At ESO, every dish tells a story, and every bite celebrates it.

05/21/2026

For more than 30 years, the Pride Awards have celebrated excellence, leadership, and impact across Charlotte’s African-American community.

This year’s 34th Annual Pride Awards will be one to remember as we explore the future of Artificial Intelligence with renowned UNC Charlotte professor Sunil Erevelles.

Join us July 10 at The Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte for an afternoon of inspiration, education, and celebration.

Watch WCNC's Interview here:

The 2026 Charlotte Pride Awards are just two months away. Colin Mayfield previews the 34th annual event.

05/20/2026

For more than 30 years, the Pride Awards have celebrated the achievements, leadership and impact of Charlotte’s African American community, and 2026 promises to be one of the most unforgettable events yet.

In a recent interview with WCNC Charlotte, Dee Dixon reflected on launching the Pride Awards in 1993 to create a space that recognized Black excellence in a way Charlotte had never seen before.

Pride Awards 2026: Future Forward with AI will explore the powerful rise of artificial intelligence and what it means for our future, featuring renowned UNC Charlotte professor Sunil Erevelles as keynote speaker.

This year’s luncheon at the The Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte on July 10 is set to spark important conversations and leave a lasting impact. Register here: https://www.pridemagazineonline.com/home/2026-pride-awards/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ap0kkXJb_10

The 2026 Charlotte Pride Awards are just two months away. Colin Mayfield previews the 34th annual event.

05/18/2026

This spring, our book reviewer Angela is diving into powerful reads on identity, resistance and freedom.

In 'Refusal: Black Women Workers and Emancipatory Struggle', author Keona Ervin centers Black women workers as architects of resistance, showing how everyday acts of refusal have shaped movements and redefined what we think of as work. It’s the history we’ve overlooked and the truth we’ve always known.

And in 'My America: Langston Hughes on Democracy', Randal Maurice Jelks reintroduces Langston Hughes as both artist and truth-teller, grounded in joy, justice and a deep love for Black life. It’s a reminder that art has always been a form of resistance.

One powerful question: what does freedom look like right now? Check out the rest of her recommendations here: https://issuu.com/watchdog-ent./docs/pride_magazine_-_2026_may_june_issue/12

05/15/2026

The future isn’t coming - it’s already here. 🚀

Don’t miss Pride Awards 2026: Future Forward with AI, where innovation meets real-world impact. This powerful luncheon will explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping how we live, work and lead - and challenge everything you think you know about it.

Featuring Dr. Erevelles, this is more than a conversation, it’s a wake-up call. From the future of business to the role of human decision-making in an AI-driven world, you’ll leave with insights that matter now.

📅 Friday, July 10
📍 The Ritz-Carlton
🕚 11:15 AM Networking | 12:00 PM Lunch & Program

Seats are limited. Be in the room for this unprecedented experience.

Register now at www.pridemagazineonline.com
or call 704-375-9553.

05/13/2026

Mystique Ro, a proud alumna of Queens University of Charlotte, represented Team USA at the 2026 Winter Olympics, competing in both the women’s skeleton and mixed team relay events.

She finished 15th in women’s skeleton and 7th in the mixed team event alongside Austin Florian; but her impact goes far beyond the results. Ro made history as the first Black athlete from Queens University and the first Royal ever to compete in the Winter Olympics. 👏

Her journey is a powerful reminder of resilience, growth and chasing your dreams - no matter where they lead.

05/11/2026

Pack your knives - Charlotte is officially having a Top Chef moment.

Pride Magazine was on the scene as Season 23 of Top Chef kicked off, putting the Carolinas’ bold flavors and culinary talent in the national spotlight.

Hosted by Kristen Kish and judged by Tom Colicchio and Gail Simmons, this season features 15 talented cheftestants, including Charlotte’s own Brittany Cochran of Stagioni.

The excitement kicked off at an exclusive “Top Chef: Carolinas” premiere event hosted by the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority (Charlotte's got a lot) at the Carolina Theatre CLT, where fans and food lovers gathered alongside chefs Brittany Cochran, Jennifer Lee Jackson, Nana Araba Wilmot and Oscar Diaz.

This season is serving up serious hometown pride, and we’re here for every bite!

05/08/2026

Estella D. Patterson has officially taken the helm of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, becoming the first woman to serve as chief in the city’s history. A CMPD veteran with more than two decades of experience, and former Raleigh police chief, Patterson returns to lead the department where her career began.

With a focus on reducing violent crime, strengthening community trust, and supporting officer wellness, she’s bringing a leadership style rooted in service, transparency and innovation.

Her message is clear: public safety is a shared effort - and every neighborhood deserves to feel safe. 💙

Read the full interview here: https://issuu.com/watchdog-ent./docs/pride_magazine_-_2026_may_june_issue/14