Have you noticed? Qcitymetro recently got bigger and better.

About a week ago, we added an entire new category of content.

If you missed it, look under the main navigation buttons near the top of the page. See the links printed in white text? They are all new, and each gives readers a new source of information – helpful information such as databases, business listings and directories.

It’s all part of the latest push in online journalism. Sure we hope to remain one of your favorite sources for community news, but we also want to make our website more useful.

In fact, it was you, our readers, who helped inspire our latest additions.

Hardly a week goes by when someone doesn’t call or email asking us to recommend a church, business or service provider. One of the more interesting calls came from a woman seeking a local comedian and a DJ. She was from out of town and needed entertainment for an event she was planning in Charlotte.

Calls like that got us to thinking: Why not build a series of directories and databases that allow Qcity readers to find what they need, whether it’s a doctor, a church, a real estate agent, entertainment options or a local handyman?

We thought it would be great for our readers as well as for our bottom line.

When we launched this website two and a half years ago, we said it would grow to become a one-stop destination for all things related to Charlotte’s African American community. Our latest additions are simply another step on that long and exciting journey.

So here’s what’s new for now:

Find A Business: This directory lists local businesses that have paid a modest advertising fee. (I checked our reader stats for the past week, and the directory was one of our most popular pages.) Use it as a resource, just as you would other business directories. We’re still adding content so check back frequently.

Qcity After Dark: This new directory allows party promoters to post their flyers to a special page for readers who enjoy the city’s nightlife -- a great addition to our current events listings. Promoters pay a modest fee.

Qcity By Day: Because daytime events are different, we wanted to give them a home of their own. Think of this directory as a place to find festivals, networking events, trade shows, gospel concerts, church-related events, etc. Promoters pay a modest fee.

Churches: Content related to faith and local churches continues to be a favorite with our readers. This free database allows Qcitymetro visitors to search for local congregations based on denomination, size and zip code. We launched this database with more than 100 listings and believe it will quickly grow. If you don’t see your congregation, or if your church’s information is incomplete, have your pastor or church administrator call us at 704-442-1565.

Directories: In the coming weeks and months, we will be adding new directories and databases. Not all can have a separate link out front. This directories page will show you all that we have to offer.

Support Us: As much as we enjoy what we do, Qcitymetro.com is a business. That means we need various forms of support from our readers. This page lists some of the ways you can help make us stronger. Some suggestions may surprise you. For example, did you know you help us grow each time you use our CareerBuilder link to apply for that job you want?

So, there you have it – the latest additions to Qcitymetro.com.

I’ll keep you posted as we add new features, but in the meantime, give me a call or drop me an email with your thoughts and suggestions.

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Glenn H. Burkins is editor and publisher of Qcitymetro.com. Call 704-442-1565 or email editor@qcitymetro.com.

Got news to share with Qcity readers? Email us at editor@qcitymetro.com.
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