opinion
We Won't Publish Guilt-by-Proximity Headlines
When an unaccepted invitation becomes a headline, journalism slips into insinuation. Here's why The Charlotte Mercury won't publish proximity stories without evidence.
Feb 4, 2026
Peter Cellino
Publisher
Publisher of Mercury Local, LLC and founder of The Charlotte Mercury. Cellino launched the Mercury to restore accountability journalism to Charlotte neighborhoods that deserve it. A Connecticut native, he brings 30 years of media and publishing experience to the Queen City.
5 Articles
opinion
Old Pizza, Old Media: Why The Charlotte Mercury Will Not Serve This Slice Of "News"
A Texas pizza franchise's bankruptcy just ran as "Charlotte business news." Here is why that old attention-merchant model is breaking down and what The Charlotte Mercury is doing instead.
Nov 24, 2025
opinion
Charlotte Spent $25,000 Investigating Corruption Claims That Proved Baseless | Mercury Local
Councilmember Watlington's corruption allegations have cost Charlotte $ 25,000. Investigation found nothing. She has no regrets. That's the problem.
Oct 15, 2025
government
How Charlotte Transit Leaders Botched Their Crisis Response After Blue Line Murder
Charlotte's transit leaders turned a tragedy into a communications disaster. Here's the crisis management playbook they ignored—and what they should have said instead.
Oct 3, 2025