Are shoppers changing their habits? Just ask Matthews, N.C. based Family Dollar how's business? - UP 33% ! Now I know Wal-Mart, and many other discounters are seeing profits rise due to the present economic trends. I am here to say that we in the Charlotte area have a real winner of an employer in Family Dollar. We'll take good news when we can get it and this is good news. Started here in Charlotte and still owned by the Levine family, this is a company, that has been constant over the decades, has stores everywhere. They employ thousands of wonderful professionals and make a significant economic impact in our area. For those new to the area, take a drive down Monroe Road near the highway 51 intersection. They have an impressive facility. The Levine family are great benefactors to our area. They give much to area charities, education priorities, and the arts. As premier benefactors to our area, I salute their success and dedication. In gloomy times it's fun to point out those that are pushing forward and keeping Charlotte a great place to live.