Good morning, this is Charlotte Local Pulse for Friday, August twenty-second.

We start with a major policy change at Atrium Health. The provider has now stopped offering gender-affirming care for patients under nineteen, outpacing even North Carolina’s own restrictions. This move, influenced by federal pressure according to Atrium Health, has left about one hundred and twenty families scrambling to find new care for their transgender kids. Support organizations like PFLAG Charlotte are voicing disappointment, saying this sends a tough message to young people about support and acceptance in our community.

Turning to weather, it looks like a typical late summer day for Charlotte. Expect muggy conditions with a passing shower or thunderstorm possible this afternoon, especially near Uptown and the South End. Temperatures will peak around ninety. If you’re heading to outdoor events, plan for some humidity and keep rain jackets nearby.

In breaking news overnight, a tragic motorcycle crash in northeast Mecklenburg County claimed the life of one rider near the intersection of Harris Boulevard and Mallard Creek Road. Police are continuing to investigate the cause. Meanwhile, in Pineville, two teenagers have been charged after a shooting at Carolina Place Mall yesterday afternoon. One person was injured, but officials say there is no ongoing threat for shoppers today. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools are also seeing heightened concern after rumors of ICE activity near campuses. Community members plan to address the school board in the coming week, calling for clarity and reassurance for parents.

For those on the job hunt, the Charlotte region just saw roughly two thousand new jobs posted this week in warehousing, healthcare, and technology. The South End continues to attract startups, with three new firms moving onto Tryon Street. On the flip side, one longtime shop, Queen City Comics, is closing its location on Elizabeth Avenue at the end of the month, citing increasing rent.

Real estate remains busy, with over seven hundred homes currently under contract in Mecklenburg County. Average home prices have leveled off near $520,000 this August, a slight increase compared to last year. Rental rates are steady, around $1,600 for a two-bedroom apartment in the Plaza Midwood and NoDa neighborhoods.

Culture and live music are front and center this weekend. Jason Aldean rocks PNC Music Pavilion tonight, while Travis Tritt performs at Ovens Auditorium. The Red Clay Strays play at Skyla Credit Union Amphitheater and the Mad Monster Expo brings horror film stars to Concord through Sunday. For families, the Charlotte Book Lovers Expo is Saturday at Ivory Baker Recreation Center, offering author signings and workshops. Crown Legacy FC takes on Inter Miami CF II in Matthews tonight, and Charlotte FC hosts the New York Red Bulls on Sunday at Bank of America Stadium. Local student athletes had a banner week—Myers Park High’s girls’ soccer team celebrated a big win over Providence, and CMS students excelled in robotics at the regional showcase on Wilkinson Boulevard.

Before we go, today’s feel-good note: volunteers from the Dilworth neighborhood banded together this week, creating care packages for kids at Levine Children’s Hospital. It’s a reminder that even on tough days, Charlotte’s heart shines through.

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