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Legislation In North Carolina Could Make Gambling Legal

Gaming

Sharon Anderson

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May 30, 2022 · 12:08 am

Legislation In North Carolina Could Make Gambling Legal

Sports betting is partly legalized in North Carolina, and the state already has two retail bookies. In addition, a Senate bill allowing internet sports betting is making its way through the North Carolina legislature. Both tribal casinos are in the western region of North Carolina, far from the state’s major urban centres. Most North Carolinians do not yet have access to a legal bookmaker in their home state. Unlike many others from around the world that have direct access to sportsbooks and online casinos, providing a world of slot-based action that North Carolina’s people can only enjoy at, say, Las Vegas, for example. As it goes, the likes of AmazonSlots casino offers several Las Vegas-themed games, and it’s sites like this that North Carolina’s people will want to experience.

SB 688 has passed the Senate, and the House of Representatives is currently debating. It cleared the House Commerce Committee 12-4 in November 2021 and is now in consideration by the House Judiciary Committee. While there are still a few steps ahead for the bill later in 2022 – one more committee trip after Judiciary before it can be put on the House schedule — North Carolinians are closer than they have ever been to the full-service gambling industry.

For the most up-to-date information on legal gambling in North Carolina, see the following timeline of events.

Timeline for Gambling Legalization in North Carolina

March 7, 2022 – Any movement on internet sports gambling in the North Carolina Assembly is still a waiting game. The legislative session for 2022 doesn’t start until May, so there’s nothing to announce until the House Judiciary Committee can convene to discuss SB 688.

April 8, 2022 – After missing out on taxes generated from legal sports gambling on the University of North Carolina’s surprise run to the men’s basketball championship finals, supporters of SB 688 now have a solid case for legalization. SB 688 proposes an 8% tax on online betting earnings. This year’s legislation process will begin on May 18 and end on June 30.

April 18, 2022 – WRAL News announces the report of a survey that shows that 52% of participants want online sports betting to be legalized in North Carolina.

April 25, 2022 – Another survey, this time from Spectrum News/IPSOS, shows that while 39% of participants are not in support, 25% are unsure, and only 36% support online betting.

May 11, 2022 – As per PlayUSA, a lobbyist from the Charlotte Hornets (NBA), Churchill Downs, MLB, and PGA Tour stated that the votes to authorize mobile sports betting are in place.

May 16, 2022 – According to LSR, a law permitting mobile sports betting that has already passed the Senate could pass fast in the House because it has the backing of House leadership.

What’s in the Current Version of the Bill?

Some of the points of the current bill include:

Betting would be restricted to those aged 21 and up.
Professional sports, collegiate sports, amateur sports (such as the Olympics), and electronic sports were all available for wagering (think video game tournaments)
Companies that make sports bets would be granted between 10 and 12 licenses by the commission.
Companies who wish to offer sports betting will have to pay a $500,000 application fee, according to the measure.
Companies who place bets would have to pay the state an 8% levy.

What is The Fate of North Carolinians?

You can hope this bill is passed as quickly as possible for those living in North Carolina, at least for those interested in sports betting, of course.

Charlotte’s Annual Circle K Speed Street Starting Today

Events

Charlotte Stories

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May 27, 2022 · 10:19 am

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Charlotte’s Annual Circle K Speed Street Starting Today

Circle K Speed Street is kicking off this weekend, and for the first time, it will be held at the Charlotte Motor Speedway instead of in Uptown Charlotte.

The annual festival features concerts joining driver appearances, interactive games and displays, food trucks and more.

Musical acts include:

Flo Rida (Friday, May 27, 9:30-11 p.m.)
Steve Miller Band (Saturday, May 28, 8:30-10 p.m.)

For more information click here.

York County Kicking Of America’s Largest Agricultural Art Tour Next Week

Events

Charlotte Stories

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May 27, 2022 · 10:09 am

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York County Kicking Of America’s Largest Agricultural Art Tour Next Week

York County’s 10th Annual Ag + Art Tour will be kicking off next week.

The Ag + Art Tour is the nation’s largest free, self-guided tour, a great way for farms and artisans to showcase their operation and expand their exposure to locals and visitors alike.

Take a trip along York County’s country roads to visit 26 tour sites during the 2022 Ag + Art Tour. More than 60 local artisans including painters, weavers, bakers, potters, quilters, fiber and fabric artists are on location at participating tour sites during the Tour, showcasing and selling their work, creating a unique, blended visitor experience of both agriculture and art. Be sure to pack an empty cooler to fill with fresh, locally grown produce! Many farms will host family-friendly activities including hayrides, farm tours, and opportunities to check out barnyard animals. Tour stops include family farms that cover a diverse spectrum of production including fruit and vegetable, livestock (protein, dairy, and/or fiber), on-farm distilleries/breweries, commodity crops, timber, and historical farming operations, farmers markets, and art galleries.

The Ag + Art Tour of York County is taking place June 4th and 5th and June 11th and 12th, on Saturdays from 10 AM – 4 PM and Sundays from 1 – 5 PM. Artisans subject to change.

AG + ART TOUR OF YORK COUNTY | EASTERN YORK COUNTY
SATURDAY, JUNE 4 | 10 AM – 4 PM
SUNDAY, JUNE 5 | 1 PM – 5 PM
MAP & MORE INFO | https://www.agandarttour.com/york-east

CENTER FOR THE ARTS, 121 E. Main St., Rock Hill, SC 29730
Open Saturday only from 10 AM – 4 PM

THE COUNTRY CARROT, 463 W. Main St., Suite 103, Rock Hill, SC 29730
Open both Saturday and Sunday

FORT MILL FARMERS MARKET, 106 N. White St., Fort Mill, SC 29715
Open Saturday only from 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM

OLD TOWN FARMERS MARKET, 129 Oakland Ave., Rock Hill, SC 29730
Open Saturday only from 8 AM – 12 PM

OLIVE’S MUD PUDDLE, 229 Main St., Fort Mill, SC 29715
Open both Saturday and Sunday

PUCKERBUTT PEPPER COMPANY, 237 Main St., Fort Mill, SC 29715
Open both Saturday and Sunday

ROCK HILL EDUCATIONAL COMMUNITY GARDEN, 954 Constitution Blvd., Rock Hill, SC 29732
Open Sunday only from 1 PM – 5 PM
ARTISANS • Le Makron

TEGA HILLS FARM, 1780 Zoar Rd., Fort Mill, SC 29708
Open Saturday only from 10 AM – 4 PM
ARTISANS • star farm pottery | The Monogrammed Nurse

AG + ART TOUR OF YORK COUNTY | WESTERN YORK COUNTY
SATURDAY, JUNE 11 | 10 AM – 4 PM
SUNDAY, JUNE 12 | 1 PM – 5 PM
MAP & MORE INFO | https://www.agandarttour.com/york-west

WESTERN YORK COUNTY TOUR SITES
BETWIXT STUDIOS, 10 Congress St. N, York, SC 29745
Open both Saturday and Sunday

BUSH-N-VINE, 1650 Filbert Hwy., York, SC 29745
Open Saturday only from 10 AM – 4 PM
ARTISANS • Studio 6 Pottery | Allie Cat Accessories

CAT’S PAW WINERY, 1567 Fayrene Rd., Rock Hill, SC 29732
Open Saturday only from 12 – 8 PM

FORLINES FARM ON FERNDALE, 250 Ferndale Rd., McConnells, SC 29726
Open Saturday only from 10 AM – 4 PM
ARTISANS • Fat Dog Soapworks, LLC | Vanessa’s Divine Creations | Sun’s Jewelry | Boho Gipsie Spirit | Holly Caskey
Crafting with Lauren | Natures Harmony y Soap

HOURGLASS ALPACAS, LLC, 419 Garvin Rd., McConnells, SC 29726
Open both Saturday and Sunday
ARTISANS • Head Wrap Mama | Queendom’s Luxurious Bath and Body Co. | Charming Outdoor Chandeliers & More | Old South Creations | Art of Erik

MEADOWVIEW EVENTS, 500 Garvin Rd., McConnells, SC 29726
Open Sunday only from 1 – 5 PM
ARTISANS • Le Makron | Delilah’s Apron | Vanessa’s Divine Creations

MYERSART STUDIO AND FARM, 1281 Legion Rd., Hickory Grove, SC 29717
Open both Saturday and Sunday
ARTISANS • Pink Daisy Candle Body Company | K&M Sweet Treats | The Monogrammed Nurse

THE PEACH TREE, 2077 Filbert Hwy., York, SC 29745
Open Saturday 11 AM – 6 PM and Sunday 2 – 6 PM

SANDIFER FEED AND SEED, 5999 Wylie Ave, Hickory Grove, SC 29717
Open Saturday only from 9 AM – 1 PM

WINDY HILL ORCHARD & CIDERY, 1860 Black Hwy., York, SC 29745
Open both Saturday and Sunday
ARTISANS • PhiddyFantasy | Diane’s Art

WOODEND FARM, 5649 Hwy 557, Clover, SC 29710
Open Saturday only from 10 AM – 4 PM
ARTISANS • Delilah’s Apron | Natures Harmony y Soap

The South Carolina Ag + Art Tour is a partnership program led by a team from Clemson Extension. Each participating county has a planning committee consisting of representatives from organizations that are involved in agriculture, art, tourism, economic development, and beyond.

Support for this project is provided by the Arts Council of York County Small Grants Program and the South Carolina Arts Commission, which receives funding from the National Endowment for the Arts.

Charlotte’s MedAssist Celebrates 25 Years of Dispensing Hope to NC Residents

Charity

Charlotte Stories

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May 27, 2022 · 9:02 am

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Charlotte’s MedAssist Celebrates 25 Years of Dispensing Hope to NC Residents

NC MedAssist is the only statewide non-profit pharmacy in North Carolina celebrates their 25^th Anniversary of Dispensing Hope to the residents of North Carolina. They provide prescription and over-the-counter medications to neighbors in need at no cost, believing that no one should ever have to choose between purchasing food or buying their medicine.

NC MedAssist began in 1997 (as MedAssist of Mecklenburg) through the efforts of the Mecklenburg Medical Society Alliance with the assistance of a $55,000 grant from the employees of Presbyterian Hospital. The mission was to serve low-income, uninsured, senior adults in Mecklenburg County with prescription medication coverage.

In 2005, they expanded their program to include all adults in Mecklenburg County. Four years later, through a grant from the Attorney General’s Office, MedAssist developed the Free Prescription Pharmacy Program for the entire state of NC and changed their name to NC MedAssist.

Their Free Pharmacy Program now provides free prescription medications to North Carolina residents who are uninsured and fall at or below 300% of the Federal Poverty Level. This statewide program is the answer for those who do not have the means to obtain life-saving medications to treat chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and asthma.

In 2012, they were presented the opportunity to distribute over-the-counter medication through a relationship with Second Harvest Food Bank – their Mobile Free Pharmacy Program was soon born. In 2021, they held 50 events in 40 different counties and served almost 49,000 individuals.

NC MedAssist has served 69,095 neighbors in need through various programs dispensing over $65 million in prescription and over-the-counter medications in the last year.

You can earn more about NC MedAssist at www.medassist.org.

Why Growing Online Brand Awareness Is Vital for Small Businesses in Charlotte

Business

Sharon Anderson

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May 27, 2022 · 12:58 am

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North Carolina has a global reputation for business, with some of the biggest technology companies and startups calling it home. According to Elaine F. Marshall, the Secretary of State for NC, 2021 was a record year for new companies. In total 178,300 organizations filed for creation.

Spurred on by the Great Resignation, businesses are springing up all over the state. Yet it is not all good news. A study by the University of North Carolina found that 50% of small businesses here close within five years. So once the doors of your business open, how do you get people to visit?

What Is Online Brand Awareness?

Brand awareness is a measure of how well known and recognizable your brand is to your target audience. It is a key step in building and retaining customers. People are more hesitant to use products and services by a company they know nothing about. However, they will revisit brands they already have a relationship with. Once you build brand awareness, this transfers to online sales and footfall in brick-and-mortar establishments.

You only need to look at the world of entertainment to see how an online presence can build brand awareness. Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM), once famous for movies alone, has used a digital presence to build an all-encompassing online brand. They now have holdings in music, television, animation, and streaming. Recently, they expanded into the world of online casinos and reinforced their stellar reputation by producing one of the best casino apps available on mobile devices, according to CasinoSmash. A recent merger with Amazon has only enhanced its presence in the digital realm.

Improving Online Brand Awareness

So how does this transfer to small businesses in Charlotte? Luckily, you don’t need a glitzy app to improve online brand awareness. If you have already opened social media accounts, then you have begun the process.

Get on your social networks and start creating relevant and informative posts. Don’t make the mistake of being on every platform. Pick one or two, talk to your customers, and build a natural rapport with them.

Another way to build online brand awareness is to register your local business on search engines, particularly Google Business. When people type queries into Google that might relate to your company, you may appear as a search result. The aim of every business should be to appear in the top three results, known as the Google Three Pack.

Understanding Local SEO for Charlotte Businesses

Climbing to the top in local searches is known as Local SEO. If you opened a small store, you would never be able to compete with major global chains like Starbucks. But with local SEO you can compete with local businesses.

Once your online brand awareness grows, you will inevitably increase the footfall to your physical store. If it seems overwhelming, then search for a local digital marketing company to help. If you can combine online sales with in-house ones, you should have the formula for a long-lasting business in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Study Shows The Younger Generation Has Shorter Attention Spans

Health

Sharon Anderson

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May 27, 2022 · 12:42 am

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Study Shows The Younger Generation Has Shorter Attention Spans

It is not a secret that members of the younger generation appear to have shorter attention spans than other people. A recent study confirmed that teenagers and young adults are unable to focus on a single task for approximately 65 seconds at a time. This means that younger individuals may have difficulty completing tasks that require a tremendous amount of thought. What can you do to beat brain fog and improve your attention?

Get Rid of Distractions

There is no way to get around this one. If you want to improve your focus, you need to get rid of distractions. Distractions come in many shapes and forms. For example, if you are constantly looking at your phone because it keeps dinging, you will have a difficult time focusing on the task at hand. You may want to silence your phone or turn it off altogether. If the TV is on in the background while you are trying to study, you will have a difficult time focusing on your schoolwork. Turn off the TV when you are trying to get your work done. If you get rid of distractions, you will have an easier time focusing.

Sleep Better at Night

You can also increase your ability to focus if you get enough sleep at night. The average adult requires between seven and eight hours of sleep every night. This sleep is important because it gives your brain a chance to rest and recharge. If you do not get the recommended amount of sleep, you will not give your brain the resources it needs to focus. If you are having a hard time falling asleep or staying asleep at night, you may want to consider turning off the TV and staying away from screens right before bed. That way, you give your brain a chance to decompress before you roll over and go to sleep.

Take a Break From Time To Time

There is also a chance that you were having a difficult time focusing because you are asking too much of yourself. If you try to push through mental fatigue, you will have a difficult time performing at the highest level. Therefore, consider taking a break from time to time. Even looking away from your work for five minutes can make a significant difference. You might even want to take a walk and connect with nature. This could be a great way for you to improve your focus and mental clarity. Then, when you return to your work a bit later, you may notice that you have a much easier time focusing on what you have to do.

Improve Your Focus

There are a lot of ways you can improve your focus and attention span. Even though you may feel like you are having a difficult time concentrating on everything you have to do, your brain is like any other muscle in your body. You need to exercise it if you want it to work as it should. By performing brain puzzles from time to time, taking a break regularly, and getting the sleep you need, you should have an easier time paying attention to everything you have to do. Keep in mind that there are also specialists available who can help you improve your focus and attention span.

How to Avoid Hidden Costs of Moving: 8 Extra Fees to Consider

Business

Sharon Anderson

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May 27, 2022 · 12:10 am

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How to Avoid Hidden Costs of Moving: 8 Extra Fees to Consider

Moving to a new home involves several hidden costs apart from the basic amount you pay the movers, the rent, and the deposit. The hidden costs can leave you flabbergasted if you do not have a budget ready to handle them. Some hidden fees are unavoidable, and others get predicted easily by frequent movers and get negotiated.

Beware of low-cost quotes

Most moving companies offering unbelievably cheap quotes hand you a huge extra bill for fuel, parking tickets, and truck cleaning later. It is wise to read the various reviews and enquire about a good moving service in the neighborhood from frequent movers. Otherwise, you will feel taken advantage of, booking a specific amount for moving and paying much more than the actual cost.

Always use a registered mover with a valid license and select services that charge standard industry prices. Don’t fall prey to attractive quotes that lure with very low cost initially and end up messing at last with extra charges and numerous delays. Evernest, Timberline, and Dorman have Colorado Springs specialized property managers who will help movers get in touch with genuine movers.

Time-based charges

Your close friend might move to a distant city with meager moving costs, and the same mover will charge you more sometimes. The cost of moving depends upon the moving time, distance, and the products handled while moving. Usually, weekend moves and shifting at the end of the month or beginning of the month are costly because all movers get booked. Moving on Monday or Wednesday in the middle of the month when the movers have lots of free time brings you a better quote.

Distance-based costs

The distance of moving also matters a lot because people moving interstate have to pay lots of taxes. The companies will also bill you for the fuel cost, parking, and lodging during long-distance travel. The height and weight of the products handled while moving also influence the final price significantly. A mover who lifts and shifts lots of heavy wood or metal objects tends to charge more for their extra effort.

Mileage based cost increase for heavy objects

If there is lots of heavy furniture in the home to be moved, choose weight-based quotes for your moving. Disclose the details about all the heavy lifting to the moving company beforehand and don’t force them to do extra work at the last minute. Heavy objects need more fuel to transport them safely, and hence, the fuel charge will get based on the mileage, and the insurance costs will also be a bit high. Try to sell them here or leave them in the family home and manage with simpler furniture in the new home.

Special items and service fees

Some companies charge extra for dismantling and reassembling furniture in your new home. It is not ok to ask the movers to dismantle a wall-mounted television or an entire wardrobe and make them do your packing. Inform the company beforehand about any dismantling services you require and the unique goods that require soft padded packing boxes. Some homes will have special items like chandeliers or other decorative motifs. The moving companies charge extra service fees to send expert service members proficient in dismantling such delicate items and packing them properly in the right boxes.

Insurance costs

Transporting very costly items needs an extra layer of packaging for protection and high theft or breakage insurance while handling them. Talk to the company about whom to approach if an item is missing or delayed delivery beforehand. Be transparent about all your requirements while booking a mover, and they will give you a clear picture of how much extra cost you need to pay. Carry such items later after a few days of moving personally to avoid risk and extra charges.

Charges for tips

The movers will expect you to tip them for their effort no matter how professional they are, and the moving companies don’t interfere. Tip the workers based on their professionalism, politeness, and work skill. Some objects need delicate handling, while others need lots of team effort to move them through a narrow door or passageway. Tip the workers based on their effort and ensure you give at least half of what they request you to tip them.

Personal charges

Always consider the amount necessary for your transport, babysitter, and food money for a few days until you unpack. Sometimes, the home you need to move in will not be ready on the required date, and you might need to wait for a few days to a week. Set some money aside to stay in a motel and keep your belongings safe in storage until you find a suitable place. Allot the required amount to hire nannies, babysitters, and pet sitters during busy packing. They will prevent the children and pets from meddling with the packaging, breaking your costly items, or getting hurt.

Bitcoin Betting in Boxing and How it is Revolutionizing the Industry

Gaming

Sharon Anderson

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May 26, 2022 · 12:01 am

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Bitcoin Betting in Boxing and How it is Revolutionizing the Industry

Boxing is one of the most popular sports globally, and betting on boxing has been a part of that popularity since the sport’s inception. Top boxers like Dmitry Bivol are so fond of this habit that they often acknowledge those who bet on them.

The only problem is that the world of betting is not as free and transparent as people think. First, most countries, especially the Muslim-dominated ones, do not condone betting. Secondly, evil characters are all over the internet and may take advantage of any loopholes.

But as technology has evolved, so have the modern ways we can bet on boxing. As a result, several Bitcoin betting sites are currently in the industry looking to take advantage of this technological evolution.

If you’re interested in learning more about how Bitcoin betting works and how you can use it to bet on boxing matches worldwide, read on!

Why Bitcoin Betting So important in the Modern Boxing World

Bitcoin is a digital currency that operates independently from any country or institution—it’s decentralized! It’s also easy to use and secure, with no need for intermediaries like banks or credit card companies (although there are companies who can help you convert your bitcoin into cash if you need it).

Bitcoin works by having users send each other small amounts of money over an encrypted network called the blockchain. The blockchain acts as an intermediary for all transactions made with bitcoin; when someone sends another person some bitcoins, those bitcoins go directly from one person’s wallet into another person’s wallet without ever being stored in an account somewhere along the way.

Bitcoin betting is one of the most trusted and fastest gambling avenues you will ever encounter with this technology. In addition, the encryption eliminates any chances of your data leaking into the wrong hand.

Bitcoin and other top cryptocurrencies being decentralized means that if you are betting online from a restricted country like Dubai or Saudi Arabia, you will easily bypass the numerous hurdles put by the respective authorities.

Bitcoin betting on boxing matches allows you to make wagers on upcoming events without having any problems with local authorities or banks trying to track down your transactions online before placing bets online during live events throughout the year!

The other beauty of Bitcoin betting is that it’s universal—it doesn’t matter where you live or what currency you use to bet. All you need is an Internet connection and some Bitcoin in your wallet!

You do not need to visit your bank now and then to make Bitcoin exchanges. Instead, all the transactions happen between your wallet and betting account.

How to Place Bets on Bitcoin Boxing Fights

If you’re a boxing fan and have some Bitcoin, you have to try betting on boxing fights. Betting on boxing is fun and exciting, but it can also be confusing if you’re not used to it. Here are the basics of how to place bets on Bitcoin boxing fights:

Understand the Basics of Boxing

Boxing is an art form, but it’s also a sport that requires hard-won knowledge. So if you want to place bets on bitcoin boxing fights, you need to know the basics of boxing to assess the odds and handicap fighters accordingly.

For example, suppose you’re placing a bet on a heavyweight match between two fighters with relatively similar weight classes. In that case, it makes sense to consider factors like age and experience level when assessing the odds of each fighter winning or losing.

On the other hand, if one fighter is significantly younger than another, this may give them an advantage in speed and agility even though they might not be as strong as their opponent.

Top sites like cryptocasinos360.com have the best analysis of some of the best odds in boxing and the entire sports betting industry. Such websites are advantageous for serious gamblers looking to make the best out of their wagers.

Know the Fighters’ Styles, Strengths, and Weaknesses

Once you’ve picked up some boxing knowledge, it’s time to start looking at the odds. This is where understanding the fighters’ styles come in handy—you’ll be able to assess whether they match up well with their opponent’s style or not.

The most important thing to consider is who the boxer is and what kind of record they have. If you’re betting on a boxer who has never fought professionally before, your odds will be low if their record isn’t good. But, again, it’s all about risk management! It might not be worth it if you have a lot of money riding on a fight, but the boxer doesn’t have a good record.

Another thing you should consider is whether or not the fighter has been injured before. If a player has a serious injury history, there’s a chance that they could get hurt again during this fight. So, if they get injured during this fight, your bet probably won’t pay out at all—which means no profit for you!

If a fighter has previously fought someone who had similar attributes (such as size and weight), their chances are higher than if they were fighting someone completely new (like someone smaller or lighter). This also applies if one fighter has more experience than another; that person will likely win.

Assess the Odds

The betting odds in boxing will depend on how strong each boxer is on paper and their experience level. The stronger boxers will have more chances of winning than those who are not as strong or experienced. It also depends on the specific odd allocation of the Bitcoin betting sites. For example, some sites offer more generous odds than others

Before you begin placing bets, you must assess the odds and decide which fighter you think will win. If you choose correctly, your bet will be successful, and you will win money!

You should first check out the current odds from various online sportsbooks to see if they offer any promotions or bonuses for new customers. This can help increase your chances of winning by placing larger wagers with lower risks if things don’t go as planned.

Boxing Betting Odds and Types of Bets

Many types of bets are available for boxing matches, including moneyline bets, round-by-round bets, and total round bets. You can place your bet on which fighter will win overall based on the total rounds won by each fighter during the fight. Let us further explain these below;

Moneyline Bets

A moneyline bet is a straight-up bet on who you think will win the fight. The bets work by comparing your boxer with the other boxer. You will be betting on who will win the match and how much should be paid out for each dollar bet on that person.

To win a moneyline bet, your fighter must win the match by knockout or technical knockout, or by decision—which means that they win all three rounds in a round-by-round bet—and there can be no draws or disqualifications in either fighter’s favor.

Round-by-Round Bets

In this type of bet, you’re betting on how many rounds it takes for one fighter to defeat the other fighter by knockout or technical knockout. This means that if one fighter gets knocked out in the second round and another fighter wins by decision after ten rounds have passed, whoever predicted that both fighters would be finished off in less than three rounds will have won their bet!

Total Rounds Bets

Total rounds bets can be placed on either side of the fight and will payout at odds based on how many rounds are won by each fighter. For example, if you bet that a fighter will win five rounds, you would receive 1/1 odds if they won exactly five rounds but if they won six or seven, you would receive 2/1 or 3/1, respectively, while if they lost all nine, your bet would be void.

Over / Under Rounds

Another popular bet with many sportsbooks is called an “over/under” bet. Bettors use this type of bet when there are no specific odds given for the fight outcome – instead, the bettor predicts whether there will be more than or less than a specific number of rounds in the fight.

For example, if someone were to place an over/under bet on a 10-round fight with an over/under set at eight rounds, they would win if there were nine or more rounds in the fight. (the under option). On the other hand, if there were less than eight rounds in total, they would lose their bet (the over option).

North Carolinians Would Rather Lose 20 lbs of Weight Than $2K of Debt, Survey Finds

North Carolina

Steve

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May 25, 2022 · 9:49 am

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North Carolinians Would Rather Lose 20 lbs of Weight Than $2K of Debt, Survey Finds

As we steadily make our way into 2022, the resolutions we made a few months earlier – to spend and eat less – begin to fade from our collective memory. Many of us will be left to ponder two frustratingly large figures: the one that shows up in our credit card bill, and the one that appears on the bathroom scale… But which would the average North Carolinian prefer to lose most? A bulging waistline or a hefty debt?

It’s a hypothetical question which BarBend.com, the world’s leading strength training resource and news outlet, sought to find the answer to when they questioned 5,337 (18+) respondents. They asked:

Would you rather 20 lbs of weight, or $2,000 of debt?

It turns out that North Carolinians are more concerned about their fitness debt than their financial debt. 54% concluded that losing weight is more important to them – this is broadly in line with the national average. Indeed, when it comes to fitness, many North Carolinians haven’t been doing nearly as much as the recommended amount per week…

Fitness debt*, or fitness deficit, can be defined as the difference between how much exercise you should be doing (according to CDC recommended guidelines of 150 minutes per week), and the amount of exercise you actually do on a regular basis. If you’re exercising your body for fewer hours than it needs to function optimally, you have a fitness debt, which can be measured as a percentage. Over time, a fitness deficit can add up and negatively impact one’s health, leading to things like weight gain and increased risk of certain health factors – much like how a poor credit score can affect finances.

Another study by BarBend.com revealed that that overall, North Carolinians have an average fitness debt of 18.7 hours per year (-14%), as compared to the CDC recommended amount of 130 hours per year (which is 150 minutes per week).

When these figures were broken down across the states, it was discovered that the two Dakotas were actually in an overall fitness credit to themselves! South Dakota had a fitness credit of 7.3%, working out for 7.3 hours more per year than the CDC recommended amount of 130 hours. North Dakota also had a fitness credit, but of 3.7%; as people here worked out for 3.7 hours more per year than the recommended guidelines. Comparatively, the state that had the overall highest fitness deficit was Wyoming at 35.6 hours (-35.6%).

View the following infographic illustrating how much fitness debt each state is in:

Interactive smart watch showing levels of ‘fitness debt’ across America (click on ’embed’ to host on your site)

Many of us are finding ourselves sitting down more throughout the day, especially since starting to work from home, or using the office/home hybrid system. It may sound innocuous to think about the number of hours per day you are sitting down, but sitting has even been referred to as the ‘new smoking’ based on the number of health issues it can trigger. Research shows that those who spend extended periods of time sitting down have higher rates of certain cancers, as well as heart problems, as compared to those who don’t. It can also lead to poor circulation and weight gain, both of which are risk factors for heart disease.

UNC Charlotte Releases $102 Million Plan To Build New Stadiums

Charlotte

Charlotte Stories

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May 25, 2022 · 9:43 am

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UNC Charlotte’s 49ers Athletics Department has just announced its new EverGreen Athletics Facilities Master Vision, which will integrate into UNC Charlotte’s overall campus master plan that is being updated. EverGreen includes substantial upgrades to existing facilities as well as the construction of new spaces to enhance the overall development of its entire program.

“As the University embarks upon an overall campus master planning process, the athletics master vision will be a key component of it,” said Chancellor Sharon L. Gaber. “This ambitious plan is reflective of the upward trajectory of UNC Charlotte’s athletics program which is, for many of our constituents, the ‘front porch’ of the University. We are committed to providing an experience for our students, alumni, and fans that mirrors the excellence embodied throughout UNC Charlotte – in our academics, research, community engagement, and every other facet of what we do.”

While the vision offers a 12-15 year look at what the future holds for all 49ers campus facilities, Charlotte is currently focused on the $102 million Phase I, which features the first expansion of Jerry Richardson Stadium, a design already underway for a new softball clubhouse and recently completed upgrades to the football locker room. Phase I also includes the construction of a new stadium to be shared by men’s and women’s soccer and the newly announced women’s lacrosse program, a clubhouse for the baseball program, and men’s and women’s basketball locker room renovations.

“This is a vision of what we intend to become,” said Mike Hill, director of athletics. “We have aspirations to achieve greatness and further elevate the visibility and profile of our University. As we take the next step in our growth by joining the American Athletic Conference, our competition gets tougher against more established programs, so it is imperative that we provide our coaches and student-athletes with the resources necessary to compete for championships. Our fans deserve the very best experience when they come to support their beloved Niners.”

Projects identified in Phase I, for which fundraising efforts have begun, are critical to the 49ers’ transition to the American Athletic Conference and the addition of their 19th sport, women’s lacrosse.

“This initiative is a tangible reflection of Charlotte’s commitment to competition in the American Athletic Conference and at the highest level of Division I athletics,” said American Athletic Conference Commissioner Mike Aresco. “It aligns with the shared vision of our conference membership and the sustained progress that has defined The American since our inception. I applaud Chancellor Sharon Gaber, Athletic Director Mike Hill and all those who strongly support this great university as its commitment to excellence continues. The University leadership’s foresight, acumen and dynamic approach have made this vision a reality that will be transformative for the University and its athletics program.”

The EverGreen Master Vision is led by nationally renowned HOK, a global design, architecture, engineering and planning firm, and Jenkins-Peer Architects, a highly regarded and award-winning local firm. HOK has nationwide experience in the athletic construction field, while Jenkins-Peer designed Jerry Richardson Stadium and the Judy W. Rose Football Center as well as other projects on campus, including the University Recreation Center.

The process included input from coaches, student-athletes, athletics staff, supporters, and university and athletic administrators. Originally, the plan was to be finalized in spring 2020; however, due to the pandemic, it was temporarily paused and subsequently modified.

“The American invited us to join because of the incredible trajectory of our athletics program, university and city,” Hill added. “Our ability to clearly articulate this vision, including expansion of the football stadium, was certainly a factor. To achieve our goals, we will need to galvanize the resources of our amazing city and university. We can do this together.”

PHASE I PROJECTS UNDERWAY OR COMPLETE

BOB DAUGHTRIDGE SOFTBALL CLUBHOUSE
Adjacent to the Lewis Family Softball Training Facility behind the first baseline, the softball clubhouse will serve as the new home for 49ers softball, including locker room and team meeting space, coaches’ offices and a training room. Softball’s departure from the Wells Fargo Fieldhouse allows for future expansion of women’s sports within that facility.

JUDY W. ROSE FOOTBALL CENTER LOCKER ROOM
New lockers maximize space for the football team and provide enhanced technology and equipment storage for over 100 student-athletes.

UPCOMING PHASE I PROJECTS

JERRY RICHARDSON STADIUM EXPANSION
The first expansion of Jerry Richardson Stadium will provide additional access to 49ers games and significantly upgrade the fan experience by offering club seating, loge boxes, hospitality suites, an outdoor terrace and mezzanine club as well as the traditional press suite level. The initial stages of this project will push capacity over 21,000 while the ultimate objective of Phase I is to accommodate over 30,000 fans.

MEN’S AND WOMEN’S BASKETBALL LOCKER ROOMS ENHANCEMENTS
Locker rooms for both the 49ers’ men’s and women’s basketball programs will undergo substantial renovations to allow for a heightened student-athlete experience. The new layouts will create more space and seating as well as player lounges and meeting space.

SOCCER/LACROSSE STADIUM
Phase I calls for the relocation of the playing venue for the Charlotte 49ers’ men’s and women’s soccer programs, which will return the programs to their playing site prior to the construction of Irwin Belk Track and Field Center/Transamerica Field in 1996. The soccer and lacrosse stadium will provide a spectacular new home for the 49ers’ national-caliber men’s and women’s soccer programs as well as the program’s newest sport, women’s lacrosse. The stadium will offer excellent fan amenities while bringing Niner Nation up close to on-field action. Until its completion, the lacrosse program will play home games at Jerry Richardson Stadium.

BARNHARDT-HALTON BASEBALL CLUBHOUSE
To move baseball operations entirely to Robert and Mariam Hayes Stadium, a new clubhouse will feature coaches’ offices, locker rooms, training room and team spaces. The baseball clubhouse will sit on the right field line between the grandstand and indoor facility and will feature a terrace for fans to congregate and watch games. In addition, baseball vacating the Wells Fargo Fieldhouse will create a home for the women’s lacrosse team.

FUTURE PROJECTS
Additional Phases of EverGreen will include construction of and expansion and renovations to other athletics facilities that will impact each and every one of the 49ers’ programs. Those projects include: Basketball Practice Facility and Student-Athlete Enhancement Center, Irwin Belk Track and Field Center enhancements, Dale F. Halton Arena enhancements, Indoor Football Practice Facility, Sue M. Daughtridge Stadium expansion, a new Wells Fargo Fieldhouse, Halton-Wagner Tennis Complex Indoor Facility, and Robert & Mariam Hayes Stadium expansion.

You can read more about the new Evergreen Campaign here.