Law classes in Charlotte will begin in 2027. | Photo via Elon University
Charlotte hasn’t had a law school since Charlotte School of Law closed in 2017 — that’s about to change. Elon University will launch a full-time law program at Queens University of Charlotte, pending formal permission from the American Bar Association (ABA).
“The need for graduate and professional programs in one of our nation’s fastest-growing cities makes the launch of a full-time law program a natural next step for Elon Law,” said Elon University President Connie Ledoux Book.
Elon plans to enroll 75 students in fall 2027. In their second year, students will have the opportunity to learn alongside a practicing attorney or judge.
Once classes are in session, three program options will be available for law students:
“We built Half Shell to be the raw bar that we’ve always wanted here at home.” Co-founder Connor Van Dyke says Half Shell, a seafood and oyster bar, is expected to open in South End this month. The restaurant will serve ceviche, lobster rolls, crab legs, steak, and oysters — an exact opening date is TBA. (The Charlotte Observer)
Civic
Charlotte City Council voted to allow four businesses to open at Solstice at Eastland Yards. Rumbao Latin Dance Company and Suites by Alvaranga Collection, Higher Grounds by Manolo, and Artisen Gelato could open as soon as this fall. (WCNC)
Transit
Council also approved the allocation of $4.3 million to the Metropolitan Public Transit Authority. The funds will come from existing sales tax revenue and will cover legal services, insurance, consultants, and administrative costs. (WCNC)
Announced
Looks like we made it. Award-winning singer Barry Manilow is bringing his “The Last Concert” tour to the Spectrum Center. Ticket presales begin today at 10 a.m., with general presales on Friday, Jan. 16.
Biz
PSA Airlines officially opened its new headquarters in the Queen City. The company relocated from Dayton, OH, and has filled about 80% of the ~250 new positions. (WSOC)
Education
Construction on five Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools is set to finish by August, bringing new arts spaces, green spaces, and classrooms to students across the Queen City. Check out the projects taking shape. (The Charlotte Observer)
Festival
Durag Fest, the annual event celebrating Black creativity and culture, is on pause for 2026, as organizers search for a location to support the festival’s growth. They did not release a timeline for the event’s return. (WCNC)
Sports
Buzz City saw a record-breaking night with an attempt for the most three-pointers in franchise history and nine players in double figures. Follow the Charlotte Hornets’progress with Locked On’s daily, team-focused podcasts.
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The NASCAR Hall of Fame has new additions to its signature exhibition. “Glory Road: Owners” highlights the names and cars of 18 owners who helped shape NASCAR competition over nearly 80 years, including Roger Penske, Rick Hendrick, and Dale Earnhardt Jr. We’re excited to see Bill Blair’s 1953 Oldsmobile Super 88 in person.
“Glory Road: Owners” will be on display through December 2028 — tickets start at $20 for museum admission.
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Quarterback Bryce Young led six of his 12 career game-winning drives to help the Panthers win the NFC South. | Photo via Carolina Panthers
The Panthers showed a lot of improvement on the field this season, with 57% of readers praising Bryce Young’s growth, 14% applauding Dave Canales’ coaching, and 29% celebrating making the playoffs. One thing’s certain: we have a lot to be proud of.
I’ve been keeping tabs on the Walk for Peace, bringing dozens of monks into the Queen City. They’re expected to be here today, and I plan to find them and walk for a bit! If you’re out there and see me, be sure to say hi.
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