Novant Health Secures Approval For New $336 Million Cabarrus Facility

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Novant Health has received state approval to build a new $336 million, 50-bed hospital in Cabarrus County, the company just announced.

The facility, called Novant Health Cabarrus Medical Center, will be located at 2401 Trinity Church Road in Kannapolis and is expected to open by 2030. The hospital will provide expanded access to care for residents of Cabarrus, Rowan, and Stanly counties.

Plans for the medical center include an emergency department, procedure rooms, diagnostic imaging, laboratory services, labor and delivery, and both general and specialty surgical care. The design also allows for future expansion to meet growing regional demand. Novant described the facility as “state-of-the-art” and energy efficient.

The project addresses a major gap in healthcare access. Currently, there is a 40-mile stretch between Novant facilities in Rowan and Mecklenburg counties. Atrium Health Cabarrus, which operates 427 beds, regularly exceeded full capacity in 2024, delaying surgeries and transfers. Atrium has approval to add 118 more beds in Concord and Harrisburg, with plans to expand to 671 beds if granted the full allocation from regulators.

“The state’s approval of our certificate of need application allows us to move forward with a new community hospital that will be a critical access point, filling an over 40-mile gap between our hospitals in Rowan and Mecklenburg counties,” said Senior VP of Novant Dr. Sid Fletcher in a press release. “Simply put, we’re delivering on our commitment to meet our patients where they are. We know many residents in this area have traveled long commutes for care at our facilities in Charotte and Salisbury. Now, we can bring that same care closer to home for them.”

Novant argued that dividing new hospital allocations fosters competition, pointing to recent state approvals that allowed AdventHealth to build a Buncombe County hospital alongside HCA-owned Mission Hospital.

With roughly $10 billion in annual revenue, Novant has announced plans to triple that figure in the coming years. Officials described the Cabarrus project as a “critical access point” for patients across the fast-growing Charlotte region.

5 compelling reasons to consider radio frequency skin tightening treatment

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When asked, it is amazing just how many people reply wrongly when asked which is the body’s largest organ. The answer is the skin, which is why it is so important to look after it properly. It protects humans from temperatures and helps maintain overall health. Perhaps it is most widely regarded as the thing that shapes appearances and can influence how someone feels about themselves and how others perceive them. Those who have clear, smooth, attractive-looking skin can have a huge advantage in everyday life.

Such features boost confidence, while those displaying visible signs of ageing through sagging, wrinkles, or uneven texture may make them self-conscious. Proper care is required to protect the skin against the environment, such as powerful UV rays. The body produces less collagen and elastin as it gets older, which is why sometimes assistance is required. Here are 5 compelling reasons to consider radio frequency skin tightening treatment.

  1. Many individuals would love to have perfect-looking skin but are sometimes put off by the fear of surgery or what it might involve. Anyone in that position can have peace of mind when they choose RF, the shortened term for radio frequency treatment. It is non-invasive and safe, as radiofrequency energy gently heats the deeper layers of the skin to stimulate collagen and elastin production, improving firmness and elasticity over time.
  2. One of the attractions of the treatment is that it can target multiple problem areas, where skin tends to sag, such as the abdomen, thighs, arms, buttocks, and even around the knees. Anyone wanting their entire skin to be improved in appearance can enjoy this form of treatment without having to find different specialists, alternative clinics, or book several appointments.
  3. Something that often deters a person wanting to improve the appearance of their skin is that they might be concerned about it looking unnatural when the treatment is complete. That is not the case where radio frequency is involved, as they encourage the skin to rebuild its support structure, which is developed over several weeks. This gradual improvement avoids a look of someone who’s had extensive work done and ensures changes appear natural to others.
  4. Pain is something else which can sometimes make a person reluctant to use treatments that might be alien to them to improve the way that they look and feel. Many who have the RF treatment describe it as having a warm massage, with the only side effects being mild redness or swelling afterwards that quickly subsides.
  5. Normal activities can continue around the treatment, making it ideal for those with hectic schedules. With properly structured sessions, the boosted collagen and improved skin quality from RF treatment can last many months, providing many benefits without needing to book repeat appointments. Loose or sagging areas can be removed to produce a more youthful-looking skin to boost confidence.

Radio frequency skin tightening treatment is ideal for those who want a safe solution to restoring collagen and elastin that delivers a younger appearance without any downtime.

Top Health Insurance Plans for Families: Features & Benefits

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Not every health issue comes with a warning. Sometimes, a regular day can turn into a hospital visit. And while no one expects it, these sudden situations often carry big costs. That’s why many families in India have started looking at health insurance plans as something essential, not optional.

It’s not just about buying a policy. What really matters is understanding what you’re getting into and choosing a plan that can truly support your family when it matters most.

What Is Family Health Insurance?

Think of a single policy that takes care of everyone at home – your partner, children, even your parents. That’s what health insurance for family typically offers. Instead of keeping separate documents for each person, you have one shared plan, and the total cover (also called sum insured) is used by whoever needs it.

Let’s say your child needs hospital care. The cost comes from that shared amount. If, later in the year, your spouse falls sick, the same plan covers that too, as long as the amount hasn’t run out.

Simple in concept. Useful in real life.

Who Should Consider It?

These types of health insurance plans for family are suitable for:

  • Couples with children
  • Families living with elderly parents
  • People who want easy policy tracking and single-date renewals
  • Anyone wanting a better way to handle health costs without buying multiple policies

You can even add new members during renewals, like a newborn or a newly married spouse.

What to Check Before Buying

There’s no such thing as a “best” plan for everyone. But there are important features to look for when comparing options. Here are some to keep an eye on:

Feature Why It’s Important
Sum Insured Total amount your family can claim in one year
Room Rent Limit Daily hospital room charges that the insurer will cover
Pre & Post Hospital Cover Pays for tests or medicines before and after admission
Cashless Hospitals Hospitals where bills go directly to insurer, not you
Daycare Procedures Covers surgeries or treatments not needing overnight stay
Maternity Benefits Useful for growing families
Restoration Option Some plans refill the sum insured if it runs out


Even if you’re not too worried about some of these now, they might become useful later.

Using a Health Insurance Premium Calculator

Before locking in a plan, it’s good to check the expected cost. That’s where a health insurance premium calculator can help.

Here’s what you’ll usually need to enter:

  • Ages of each family member
  • Number of people to be covered
  • Desired sum insured
  • Any additional features like critical illness cover or maternity
  • City or region

The calculator will then give you a rough idea of the annual premium. It doesn’t take long, and you can use it to compare different plans across insurers.

Real Advantages of Family Plans

So, what makes a family health plan better than individual policies?

1. One Policy, Less Hassle

One document to manage. One renewal date. No juggling of paperwork for each person.

2. More Value for Money

The combined premium is often lower than if you buy individual plans for everyone. Use a calculator to confirm – you’ll likely see a difference.

3. Flexibility

As mentioned earlier, family members can be added later. It’s adaptable to life changes.

4. Tax Deductions

Premiums paid for health insurance are eligible for tax benefits under the Income Tax Act. It’s another plus on the financial side.

A Sample Comparison to Help You Decide

Here’s a basic example to help you see how family health plans might differ. Always check with the insurer directly for exact numbers.

Criteria Plan A Plan B Plan C
Sum Insured ₹5 Lakhs ₹10 Lakhs ₹15 Lakhs
Room Rent Cap ₹3,000/day ₹5,000/day No Limit
Cashless Network 4,000+ 5,500+ 7,000+
Daycare Procedures 400+ 750+ 1,000+
Maternity Benefit After 3 years After 2 years After 2 years
Restoration of Cover Not Included Once per year Unlimited


This table is just for comparison purposes; always read the fine print before buying.

Add-Ons That Can Help

Some policies offer optional covers that you can add if needed. They increase the premium a bit but provide additional peace of mind.

Examples include:

  • OPD cover: Useful if your family visits doctors often
  • Critical illness cover: Covers serious conditions like heart issues or cancer
  • Hospital cash: Daily allowance during hospitalisation
  • Personal accident cover: Extra payout in case of injury-related hospital stays

Think about what suits your family before adding these.

Watch Out for These Common Mistakes

While buying a policy, people often make these errors:

  • Picking the cheapest plan without checking coverage details
  • Skipping over terms like “co-payment” or “sub-limits”
  • Assuming all hospitals are part of the network
  • Ignoring waiting periods for maternity or existing conditions
  • Forgetting to declare past illnesses while applying

A 15-minute review of the policy documents can save you a lot of stress later.

Key Points to Remember

  • Use a health insurance premium calculator before making a final choice
  • Check how easy the claim process is – read reviews if you’re unsure
  • Confirm if the insurer has a support helpline in your city
  • Always disclose complete health info to avoid claim issues later
  • Don’t miss your renewal date – it could impact future benefits

Final Thoughts

Finding the best health insurance for your family isn’t about just comparing prices. It’s about understanding what kind of support you’ll get when things go wrong. A well-chosen policy can protect your savings, offer quality medical care, and help your family bounce back faster.

Take your time to compare, ask questions, and use all the tools available, especially the health insurance premium calculator. Whether it’s for peace of mind, financial protection, or long-term planning, a good family plan is worth every bit of the effort.

 

2.7 Magnitude Earthquake Just Struck North Carolina Between Asheville and Charlotte

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The largest earthquake to rattle the Carolinas so far this year just struck between Charlotte and Asheville in the small town of Mill Spring, NC.

According to USGS, today’s quake had a magnitude of 2.7 on the Richter scale and a depth of 5.6 KM.

Over the past 30 days, a total of 3 additional earthquakes shook the NC rainforest near Rosman, NC. The newest quake measured 2.0 on the Richter scale and had a depth of 1.9 km, according to the USGS.

Earthquakes have been increasing in frequency around the Charlotte region over the past few years. Last year, we experienced the largest earthquake in over 100 years when a 5.1 magnitude quake hit Sparta, NC, and since then, dozens of aftershocks have continued to rattle our state.

According to USGS.gov, “Moderately damaging earthquakes strike the inland Carolinas every few decades, and smaller earthquakes are felt about once each year or two.”

Have you felt any of the quakes?

Lancaster Approves 900-Home Subdivision and Commercial Expansion in Landmark Rezoning Vote

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The Lancaster City Council has just approved a sprawling rezoning plan that will allow a new 900-home residential subdivision and 46 acres of commercial development off Airport Rd. in Lancaster.

The development, led by Forestar Group, spans nearly 400 acres and is projected to generate $7.3 million in annual tax revenue once completed.

via Lancaster City Council

The plan includes five zoning changes covering residential and commercial parcels, with one commercial parcel donating 20 acres for public service or recreational use.

A traffic study approved by the South Carolina Department of Transportation indicated the road network could handle projected volumes with three new turn lanes on Airport Road and signal modifications, but no new traffic lights.

Construction is not expected to begin until at least 2027, with a buildout over 10 years.

Boeing 777 From Charlotte to Rome Forced Back After Mid-Flight Mechanical Issue

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A mechanical issue forced an American Airlines flight from Charlotte to Rome to turn back mid-journey on Wednesday night, delaying travel for hundreds of passengers.

American Airlines Flight 720, a Boeing 777-200, departed Charlotte Douglas International Airport at 6:40 p.m. and was scheduled to land in Rome, Italy, at 9:50 am, but a major mechanical issued forced the plane to turn around over the Atlantic Ocean and make an emergency landing back in Charlotte, according to FlightAware data.

This is now the 3rd Boeing aircraft to be diverted and forced to make an emergency landing in Charlotte so far this year.

The plane landed safely in Charlotte and taxied to the gate under its own power. Maintenance crews inspected the aircraft after arrival.

The rescheduled Flight 720 is now set to depart Charlotte at 4 p.m. Thursday, with an expected arrival in Rome at 7:51 a.m. Friday.

E. Coli Contamination Leads to Boil Water Advisory Across Union County

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Union County public schools, offices, and facilities will close Thursday following a citywide boil water advisory in Monroe. The closure includes all athletics, camps, and district activities.

Routine testing found E. coli in the city water system near Monroe Fire Department Station 4. The new emergency advisory now applies to the entire Monroe city water system as a precaution.

The city has isolated the impacted area, flushed the system, and notified the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality. Additional testing is underway, and the advisory is expected to be lifted Thursday, August 14.

Residents using city water should boil it for at least one minute before drinking, cooking, brushing teeth, making ice, or giving it to pets. Bottled water is recommended if available.

The Union County Public Health Department has suspended permits for food establishments using Monroe city water unless they have approved emergency water plans.

The closure comes ahead of the school year, with optional teacher workdays starting August 15 and students returning August 25.

Fort Mill’s Anne Springs Close Greenway Opens Two New Bridges

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The Anne Springs Close Greenway announced yesterday the official opening  of two newly constructed pedestrian bridges, marking the completion of a critical infrastructure project that  enhances both access and environmental stewardship on its 2,100-acre property.

A ribbon cutting ceremony was held this morning to celebrate the milestone, with remarks from Greenway  leadership and community partners in attendance.

The $1.77 million project replaces two key crossings that had become unusable in recent years: the former Steele Street vehicular bridge, which collapsed in January 2024, and a swinging footbridge near the prairie at  the Adventure Road Entrance. These new steel-truss pedestrian bridges are engineered for longevity, designed  to sit above the 100-year floodplain and minimize environmental disruption.

“Today’s opening marks more than just the completion of a construction project—it represents our ongoing  commitment to balancing sustainable access with land conservation,” said John Gordon, President & CEO of the  Leroy Springs & Company. “These bridges restore vital trail connections for hikers, bikers and equestrians, while  protecting the integrity of Steele Creek and the surrounding ecosystem.” 

With the new bridges in place, over 200 acres of trails previously impacted by detours and closures are once  again accessible. The improvements are expected to significantly enhance visitor experience across multiple trail  systems, particularly at the heavily trafficked Adventure Road and Blue Star entrances. In 2024 alone, more  than 100,000 visitors entered the Greenway through these gateways.

The project was funded through a combination of endowment support and generous contributions from  individuals, corporate sponsors and individual donors.

“These bridges are an investment in the future of this property and the people who cherish it,” said Gordon. “As  our region continues to grow, we’re proud to provide safe, sustainable ways for the public to connect with  nature.” 

To learn more about the Anne Springs Close Greenway and its mission, visit ascgreenway.org.

Public Backlash Halts Proposed Mooresville Earnhardt Estate Data Center

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A plan to rezone 400 acres of rural Mooresville land for a large-scale data center has been withdrawn, Mayor Chris Carney announced Wednesday.

“This morning, the Town of Mooresville received official notice from Tract developers that they have withdrawn their request for a proposed data center in Mooresville. This means the item will be removed from the September 15 agenda and will not move forward,” Carney said on Facebook.

The proposal, backed by Teresa Earnhardt, widow of NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt, sought to transform her Patterson Farm Road property into the Mooresville Technology Park. The project promised nearly 200 full-time jobs and hundreds of millions in tax revenue over two decades.

However, strong opposition from residents — including Dale Earnhardt’s eldest son, Kerry — raised concerns about environmental impacts, property values, and the absence of a named technology company. Kerry Earnhardt publicly stated his father would be “livid” to see his name tied to the development.

Carney said the developer’s decision to fully withdraw the request removes it from the town’s meeting agenda.

41-Year-Old Gaston Man Arrested For Murder After Deadly Attack

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A 74-year-old man is dead and another is in custody after an alleged assault Tuesday morning in Gaston County.

Gaston County Police say officers responded around 8:30 a.m. to New Moon Ln, Bessemer City, where Michael Hughes died from injuries sustained in the attack.

According to officials, the Gaston County man responsible for the attack was 41-year-old Derek S. Hughes. He was arrested shortly afterward by Gaston County Police. He is charged with first-degree murder and is being held without bond.

Investigators have not confirmed whether the men were related. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective A. Bishop at 704-866-3320 or Crime Stoppers at 704-861-8000.