Charlotte Is About To Feel Its First Heat Wave Of The Year

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Charlotte is about witness this year’s first official heat wave with temperatures expected to climb into the 90s by the end of this weekend and continue to reach into the 90s every day of next week.

A heat wave is technically defined as 3 or more consecutive days with a high of 90 or more.

The hottest day of the coming wave is expected to be felt on Wednesday, with chance of highs in some parts of the Charlotte region exceeding 100 degrees.

via WeatherUnderground.com

The elderly, young children, and anyone who suffers from heat sensitivity, respiratory conditions, or heart or lung disease should limit their time outside next week.

If you’re planning on spending an extended amount of time outside next week, make sure you wear breathable clothes and consider getting a small fan, personal air conditioner, or evaporative cooling towel.

Stay safe out there!

Report Shows Charlotte Will Need 72,000 More Apartments By 2030

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The Charlotte region is now expected to need at least 72,000 more apartments by 2030, according to a study by the National Multifamily Housing Council and the National Apartment Association.

This demand amounts to a 53% increase over our current apartment stock of 135,800 total units, making Charlotte once of the fastest growing apartment markets in the United States. The entire state of North Carolina is expected to see an apartment growth rate of at least 37% by 2030.

The study indicates several major factors for the historic growth, including; an increased population of renters, an increased population of home owners, and an increase in the rate of rentership;

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“We’re experiencing fundamental shifts in our housing dynamics, as more people are moving away from buying houses and choosing apartments instead. More than 75 million people between 18 and 34 years old are entering the housing market, primarily as renters,” said Dr. Norm Miller, Principle at Hoyt Advisory Services and Professor of Real Estate at the University of San Diego.  “But renting is not just for the younger generations anymore. Increasingly, Baby Boomers and other empty nesters are trading single-family houses for the convenience of rental apartments. In fact, more than half of the net increase in renter households over the past decade came from the 45-plus demographic.”

“Apartment rentals are on the rise, and this trend is expected to continue at least through 2030, which means we’ll need millions of new apartments in the U.S. to meet the increased demand. The western U.S. as well as states such as Texas, Florida and North Carolina are expected to have the greatest need for new apartment housing through 2030, although all states will need more apartment housing moving forward,” said NAA Chair Cindy Clare, CPM. “The need is for all types of apartments and at all price points.”

The study also indicates a growing need for renovations on the existing stock of apartment buildings, providing a boost to both jobs and money. The research found that over 51% of all apartment communities were built before 1980 across the country, translating to over 11.7 million units that could need upgrading by 2030.

How do you think the city of Charlotte should handle this new growth – especially related to traffic? 

Do you think we should we focus more on roads or public transportation? 

Create Amazing Just Announced The Upcoming 2021 Queen City Juneteenth Festival

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Create Amazing just announced the 2021 Queen City Juneteenth Festival themed “Educating, Empowering, Entertaining”. The highly anticipated event is free to the public and a great way to bring the community and families together to celebrate Juneteenth. Event organizer Michael Calloway says “this is an outdoor festival with plenty of room for distancing and safety. Black owned small businesses have been decimated due to the pandemic and can’t wait to get back to business. 50 black owned companies will be in attendance all of which can use a boost”. The festival’s mission is to spread African American culture and give back to the less fortunate communities.

The June 19th event promises a unique twist with onsite vendors, music, dance performances, free giveaways, and a family atmosphere for all to enjoy.

Attendees can look forward to:

  • Pie Eating Contest
  • Limbo
  • Dance Performances
  • Kid Games
  • Face Painting 
  • And More

Attendees can learn more and RSVP at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2021-queen-city-juneteenth-festival-tickets-153882746437

Duke Announces Plans To Move Headquarters To New 40-Story Tower in Uptown Charlotte

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The Carolinas’ largest energy producer has just announced plans to move their entire corporate headquarters to the new 40-story ‘Metro Tower’ (currently under construction), and will rename it the ‘Duke Energy Plaza’.

In a press release, the company said they made the decision in order to downsize their corporate office space. Their current headquarters is located in Charlotte’s second tallest building, often referred to as ‘the handle bar building’ or ‘the tower of power’, which lies directly across the street from the soon-to-be Duke Energy Plaza.

The move will reduce Duke’s overall office space usage from roughly 2 million square feet down to about 1.5 million square feet.

“We’re excited to transition our employees into the Duke Energy Plaza, where we will drive additional collaboration and innovation to deliver the affordable, reliable and increasingly clean energy our customers expect and achieve our goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050,” said Donna Council, Duke Energy’s senior vice president of administrative services and real estate. “We’re moving to a new workplace model that provides teammates with more flexibility and hybrid work options, reducing the need for the large real estate footprint we currently occupy. We remain firmly committed to Uptown Charlotte with an office tower that we’ll be proud to call our new home.”

What do you think about the decision?

Former President Trump Coming To NC Next Month To Headline NCGOP Convention

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The NCGOP has just confirmed that former President Donald Trump will be coming to North Carolina next month to headline the state’s Republican Part Convention.

He will be speaking on June 5th at the main convention dinner in Greenville, NC.

According to the NCGOP, the convention will be closed to the public and all media personnel. The speech will not be live streamed nor will it be viewable on any online channels.

Some have speculated that Trump might run against Biden again in 2024 in what would certainly be a highly contentious political rematch.

Trump narrowly beat Biden in North Carolina during the 2020 race, earning 50.1% of Tar Heel votes, but lost to Biden in the national popular vote and the national electoral college vote.

What do you think about the former president coming to North Carolina next month?

New Watch Companies Are Pushing Limits of Fashion and Design

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High fashion watches are experiencing someone of a renaissance at this point in time, with new companies starting to really push the limits of a time piece’s function and look.

One such company out of Copenhagen is doing just that. Their name is Nordgreen and their products are truly awe-inspiring.

The company started just under 4 years ago in 2017. Partners Pascar Sivam and Vasilij Brandt wanted to build a brand that was primarily focused on sustainable practices while creating an aesthetically pleasing, and functional collection of designer timepieces. They first envisioned their collection with award-winning Chief Designer Jakob Wagner, who earned his acclaim by designing for Bang & Olufsen, Hay, B&B Italia, and Cappellini for starters.

The watch I decided to get is called ‘The Native’, which they describe as “striking the perfect balance between striking sophistication and subtle detailing,” adding, “balance is the key to the high quality of life in Copenhagen, and that is exactly what Jakob Wagner instilled into this watch.”

You can check out their entire collection on their website here.

Charlotte Is Now The First City in The Carolinas To Use Facial Recognition Software

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The Charlotte Douglas Airport has just officially started using facial recognition cameras on passengers who travel through the airport.

According to a press release we received from the Department of Homeland Security, the new system is initially being rolled out by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) within the international flights area to verify that passengers arriving in Charlotte are who they say they are. It takes only seconds to scan the facial biometrics of passengers and ‘is more than 98 percent accurate.

“CBP is expanding the use of facial biometrics at Charlotte Douglas International Airport to provide travelers a safe, touchless international arrival process that further secures and modernizes air travel,” said Barry Chastain, CBP Area Port Director Charlotte. “Our valuable partnership with CLT continues to enhance the travel experience. In addition, CBP looks forward to partnering with stakeholders at other international ports of entry across N.C. to implement Simplified Arrival.”

Charlotte now joins Miami, NYC, Atlanta, Washington DC, Chicago, and Dallas-Fort Worth in adding the new technology.

We’re now the first city in the Carolinas to use facial recognition cameras.

What do you think about the use of facial recognition in Charlotte? 

Celebrating Johnson C. Smith University’s Top Graduates of 2021

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For four years, each of the following students have embodied Johnson C. Smith University’s motto, “Become Yourself. Change Our World.” As they prepare to leave our halls, we are proud to share the stories of some of their Great Grads.

Salutatorian Crystal Howard, is earned a Bachelor of Science degree in computer science information systems and has secured a job as a cyber security analyst with Bank of America. With diversity in technology at the forefront of conversations, Howard hopes her role with BoA allows her to be a role model for Black women. “I want to be an inspiration for younger kids who may not think they can.”

Miss JCSU Ashley Bellinger, earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in interdisciplinary studies with concentrations in graphic arts in production and minor concentrations in business and entrepreneurship.

Bellinger will begin employment with Red Ventures as a digital marketing associate this summer. Through a partnership with the University, students enrolled in JCSU’s three-credit, two-semester Digital Marketing course are guaranteed a job with Red Ventures after completion of the course with the grade of a B or higher. “COVID-19 has made it harder for students preparing to embark on their careers, but this opportunity with Red Ventures has made it easier for me. I’ve just had to keep my grades up and everything else has fallen into place.”

Mister JCSU Tymier Farrar, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration with a concentration in marketing and finance. Farrar has dreams of becoming a sports agent or operating a law firm dedicated to athletes. “I want to be a jack of all trades,” he said. “Owning my own firm will allow me to represent athletes as I help guide their professional careers and business decisions.”

William Case, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in computer science information systems and has already secured a position with Microsoft as a Computer Engineer. Case had a nontraditional path to graduation.

After graduating high school in Miramar, Florida, he worked for nearly two years before moving to Charlotte, where he eventually enrolled in Central Piedmont Community College for his Associate’s degree. “Right after graduation, I got a pretty good job doing support for a software company, where I eventually was promoted to account management,” Case said. “During that time, I realized that I wanted to be more on the creative side.” That’s when he made the decision to apply to JCSU.

Why Should You Choose Mediclaim Policy?

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Insurance is more of a necessity than an option. You cannot avoid the need for having insurance in your life. In such uncertain times of COVID-19, it has become highly essential to save yourself some money in the form of insurance.

Medical insurance is the most important type of insurance policy that everyone should have. But the question arises, which is the best medical insurance policy.

Have you heard about the Mediclaim insurance policy? It is a type of medical insurance that can provide you with a bunch of benefits.

In this article, we are going to talk more about Mediclaim and how it can offer you its aisle of advantages.

What Is Mediclaim Insurance Policy?

You would agree to the fact that medical expenses are continuously rising every year, which makes it financially challenging to meet medical needs. It is an insurance cover that protects you from the sky-rocketing hospital expenses. A Mediclaim policy will provide you with financial protection against hospitalization expenses.

This policy is used to cover specific needs for a certain time. Mediclaim is a type of health insurance where you can get your expenses reimbursed or choose for cashless treatment. With this insurance policy, you can also avail of tax exemption under 80D of Income Tax Act, 1961, making it a great investment for people.

What Are Features and Benefits of Mediclaim Policy?

You will be wondering what are the benefits of Mediclaim policy online in India. Here are some of the features and benefits of this policy:

  • You can avail cashless hospitalization treatment with this policy.
  • You can pick this policy for yourself or your entire family.
  • You can lessen your financial burden with this medical policy.
  • You can eradicate the expenses paid from pocket.
  • All the expenses will be handled by the insurance company that include your hospitalization charges.
  • You can also avail of tax exemptions with this policy.
  • You can get cost-effective and budget-friendly services under the policy.

What Are the Types of Mediclaim Policies?

You will be given different options regarding the types of Mediclaim policy. Here are a few common ones available:

  1. Individual Policy: In this plan, only the policyholder is covered for the expenses.
  2. Family Floater Policy: Both individuals and family members will be covered in the policy, including spouse, parents, and children.
  3. Group Mediclaim Policy: This policy is bought by corporates who want to insure their employees.
  4. Senior Citizen Policy: As the name suggests, this policy is ideal for senior citizens.
  5. Critical Illness Mediclaim Policy: This policy will cover all the expenses arising from a critical illness.
  6. Overseas Mediclaim Policy: All the hospitalization expenses that happen overseas can be covered in this policy.

The Bottom Line

Mediclaim is an effective health plan that you can benefit from. If you know the best way to use it, Mediclaim policy can provide you with great benefits.

The above-mentioned quick guide will help you understand this insurance type. Make sure to pick a reliable insurance provider for your Mediclaim policy.

Important Safety Laws for Cyclists On the Road

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There are many North Carolina Bike Laws that will help keep cyclists and motorists safe on the road. Years ago, a new bill to make cycling safer throughout the state came into action after increased pressure on the state legislature to make changes. On NC streets and highways, an average of 19 cyclists die and more than 600 are injured each year. The new bills put in place have included higher fines, stiffer penalties and a greater chance to lose your licence for violating the rules put in place to protect cyclists.

Thankfully, new laws give cyclists more freedom and safety on the road so that we can get more cars off the streets and have people living healthier lifestyles. Since there have been changes, there are some important laws for motorists and cyclists to remember. Here are some of the road related laws to review that apply to both vehicles sharing the road.

Night Equipment Is Required

If you’re biking somewhere at night, you’re required to have proper lighting equipment on your vehicle. Your bike should have a lamp with a reflex mirror on the rear and you must have certain lighting operating at night on public streets, greenways or places where cars can be, such as parking lots. You should also be wearing bright clothing, preferably a vest that is reflective and visible. All lighting and clothing should be able to be visible by at least 300 feet.

Slower Traffic Uses the Right Lane

It’s a well-known rule that if you’re driving slowly you drive in the right lane, so cyclists should stick to the right, knowing they will be slower than cars. There are some roads that now have fully marked lanes for them to ride in and they are entitled to use them. If drivers find themselves close and need to pass, they may do so only when it’s absolutely clear from any oncoming traffic in the opposing lane. Drivers need to remember that cyclists are entitled to use the full lane too, and that it’s possible to share the road safely.

Impaired Driving Law Applicable to Bicyclists

It might seem like a bike ride home after a party can be safe, but it’s really not a good idea. The dangerous things that can happen to an imparied driver can also happen with an impaired cyclist. If you’re caught biking impaired, you can be tested and if you have an alcohol concentration of 0.08 or more you can be charged. 

These rules have been updated to help keep cyclists and motorists safe on the road, but accidents happen every day. If you ever find you or someone you love needs help in a cycle related accident, Attorney Ann Groninger is an expert in her field. She has a specialized understanding of the updated laws and legal frameworks of biking safety.

With the rising importance of road safety, everyone who uses the road should do their part to make it as safe as possible. Sharing the road is a great way to work together to help make our planet cleaner and greener. Many more people may take up cycling as part of their lifestyle if towns, cities and states work to make safer and friendlier environments for bikes and cars to coexist harmoniously.