The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has expanded its list of prohibited items just before one of the busiest travel weekends of the year. Travelers heading out for Labor Day should take note, as certain cordless beauty tools are now restricted.

According to the updated Code of Federal Regulations, the following items are no longer allowed in checked luggage:

• Cordless curling irons or flat irons containing gas cartridges

• Butane-filled curling irons or flat irons

• Gas refills (spare cartridges) for hair tools

TSA cracks down on one more common beauty essential https://t.co/5NXv8fI0LH

— TheStreet (@TheStreet) August 27, 2025

TSA clarified that travelers may carry one cordless hair tool powered by hydrocarbon gas, such as butane, in their carry-on bag only. The device must have a fitted safety cover over its heating element. However, spare gas cartridges remain banned in both checked and carry-on baggage.

Traditional hair styling tools that plug into outlets, such as standard curling irons or straighteners, are still permitted in both checked and carry-on bags.

This latest policy update comes as part of ongoing efforts to modernize security regulations. Just last month, TSA removed its longstanding “shoes off” requirement at some checkpoints and signaled possible changes to the liquid rule for carry-ons.

With millions expected to travel over the long weekend, TSA officials urge passengers to review the latest guidelines before arriving at the airport to avoid delays.

Alliance Residential Company has just announced the opening of the West Side’s newest apartment community – Broadstone West End. The 332-unit development, located at 2220 Wilkinson Boulevard in Charlotte’s FreeMoreWest area, is now offering studio-2 bedroom units ranging in price from $1,555 – $2,957 per month.

The development is positioned on the north side of Wilkinson Boulevard near the I-277 interchange – within walking distance to Uptown, South End, and the Bank of America Stadium.

Broadstone West End was designed by McAdams Company (civil engineering), Cline Design (architecture), and MAD Studio Interiors. The property offers studio, one-, and two-bedroom units. Standard features include stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, wide plank flooring, electronic entry locks, and full-size washers and dryers. Some units include private balconies, additional storage, or city views. A limited “Compass Collection” line of units features upgraded finishes such as wine refrigerators, brass lighting fixtures, and expanded ceiling heights.

Community amenities include a saltwater pool, fitness center, outdoor grilling areas, fire pits, a resident clubroom, and a poker room. Additional features include bike storage, a dog park, EV charging stations, package lockers with cold storage, and gated parking.

The project adds to the ongoing growth of the FreeMoreWest corridor, where residential and commercial development has increased in recent years.

Charlotte remains one of the top cities for renters in the U.S., ranking #13 nationwide in RentCafe.com’s Best Cities for Renters 2025 report. While Raleigh climbed to #9 this year — overtaking Charlotte after trailing it last year — both cities offer strong appeal. Raleigh edges ahead with a lower cost of living, but Charlotte leads North Carolina in high-end rentals and boasts stronger renter income growth.

The report looked at 150 U.S. cities and scored them based on the things renters care about most — like affordability, job opportunities, and quality of life.

• 12 for Housing & Cost of Living
  Charlotte offers renters a solid mix of affordability and quality. The cost of living is 1.1% below the national average, and apartments are spacious — averaging 948 sq. ft. What’s more, 72% of rentals are considered high-end — the highest share in North Carolina.

• 14 for Local Economy
  Charlotte’s economy is strong, with 1.8% job growth year-over-year, and a thriving business environment. Plus, 30% of residents hold a college degree, reflecting a well-educated workforce and solid economic potential.
• 64 for Quality of Life
  Charlotte ranks in the middle for quality of life, but there are plenty of positives. Nearly one in four apartments are in top-rated locations, meaning they’re close to parks, shops, and transit. The city also scores well for natural amenities and green space. However, 35% of renters face commutes over 30 minutes, which impacted this category’s score.
• For comparison, Raleigh ranks 9th nationwide — 14th for both housing & cost of living and quality of life, and 23rd for local economy. The cost of living is 2.8% below the national average, renter income growth is 27.6%, and 49% of its apartments are in top locations.