Ashley Mahoney

2 weeks ago | axios.com | Ashley Mahoney

Charlotte has developed an insatiable appetite for soccer, between hosting two Copa America matches last summer and four FIFA Club World Cup matches this summer. And Charlotte FC owner David Tepper already has his sights set on the FIFA Women's World Cup in 2031. Why it matters: Major sporting events pump millions into Charlotte's economy with thousands of fans staying in Charlotte's hotels, eating at restaurants, and traveling through the city's airport.

2 weeks ago | axios.com | Ashley Mahoney

Photo: Jason Miller/Getty ImagesA century before the Hornets hit the court at the old Coliseum, Belk put Charlotte on the map, as Axios' Katie Peralta Soloff wrote. Now, the NBA team and hometown retailer have entered into a multiyear partnership. Why it matters: Creating new revenue streams like this is part of the plan with Spectrum Center's $245 million upgrades and the planned $150 million standalone practice facility across the street.

2 weeks ago | axios.com | Ashley Mahoney |April Rubin |Lauren Floyd

More than 3,500 people in Charlotte participated in the nationwide "Hands Off!" protests this past Saturday, April 5. Why it matters: The march was a pushback against things people stand to lose, from the arts to medical and social services, protest organizers told Axios. Catch up quick: Millions of people took to the streets, state capitals, federal buildings, congressional offices and city centers to protest the Trump administration on Saturday.

2 weeks ago | axios.com | Ashley Mahoney

🍻 FIFA president Gianni Infantino met with local soccer fans at Hooligans Monday night. Infantino is visiting markets that will host FIFA Club World Cup matches this summer. (Axios)👕 Katelyn Roberts, a West Rowan High School senior, won the Cheerwine Festival T-shirt design contest, per a press release. The Cheerwine Festival will be on Saturday, May 17, from 10am to 7pm in downtown Salisbury.

2 weeks ago | axios.com | Ashley Mahoney

Rendering: Courtesy of SouthPark Community PartnersA $21 million plan to transform Symphony Park near SouthPark Mall was presented to city leaders Monday. Why it matters: If approved, the park would get a new plaza and entry point, a connection to the Loop (a 3-mile trail that is currently being built), an updated existing bandshell, two restaurants, plus retail and restrooms.