Third Annual Bands, Brews & BBQ Festival Returning To Lake Norman

via mooresvilleevents.com

Lake Norman’s iconic Bands, Brews & BBQ Festival returns Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025, from 4–9 p.m. in Liberty Park and Downtown Mooresville. The free event features live music, craft beer, award-winning BBQ, and family fun.

Now in its third year, the festival recently won the “Rising Star Award” from the NC Association of Festivals and Events.

This year’s music lineup includes regional favorite DialUp Radio, followed by platinum-selling headliners Jefferson Starship and Night Ranger.

More than 20 BBQ food trucks and vendors will offer a wide range of smoked meats and Southern dishes. The B3 Beer Garden returns with local and regional craft brews, including a special release from Ghostface Brewing to benefit the U.S. Bobsled Team, who will appear for a meet & greet.

Presented by deBotech, Inc., the event is free and open to all ages. More info at mooresvilleevents.com.

Rabies Alert Issued After Infected Animals Found in Mecklenburg County

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The Mecklenburg County Department of Public Health issued an alert Monday for residents living near Alexander Street in the 28206 ZIP code.

In total, Mecklenburg County has reported five confirmed rabies cases this year, including two recent cases involving bats.

Officials say the latest cases involved two human exposures and two domestic pet exposures. The infected bats tested positive for rabies, prompting renewed warnings about safety and prevention.

Rabies is a deadly virus that affects the central nervous system. It spreads through the saliva of infected animals via bites, scratches, or open wounds. While rabies is preventable through vaccination, it is not curable once symptoms begin.

Health officials urge residents to take the following precautions:

  • Keep all pets, including dogs, cats, and ferrets, up to date on rabies vaccinations — it’s required by law.

  • Supervise unvaccinated puppies and kittens outdoors.

  • Obey leash laws and report stray or sick animals to Animal Care and Control by calling 311.

  • Avoid feeding pets outdoors and remove food, garbage, or birdseed that could attract wild animals.

  • Seal entry points to your home, such as chimneys, dryer vents, or roof gaps, with metal mesh.

  • Never approach injured animals, animal traps, or storm drains where wildlife may travel.

Children should be taught to stay away from unfamiliar or wild animals, including raccoons that appear during daylight hours or behave abnormally.

Anyone who suspects exposure or observes unusual animal behavior should contact Animal Care and Control immediately at 311.

Charlotte FC Wins Fourth Straight, Climbs to 7th Ahead of Leagues Cup Break

Charlotte FC continued their red-hot form Saturday night with a 2-0 win over Toronto FC, marking their fourth straight victory and a return to playoff position in Major League Soccer’s Eastern Conference.

Now sitting seventh in the standings, Charlotte is gaining momentum after slipping to ninth earlier in the season. Head coach Dean Smith credits the resurgence to the team regaining the sharpness that once placed them at the top of the table back in April.

Charlotte started strong at Bank of America Stadium, hitting the crossbar twice in the opening 20 minutes. But the first half ended with limited chances from either side. The second half began similarly until midfielder Brandt Bronico delivered a clean cross to Idan Toklomati, who headed in his sixth goal of the season in the 60th minute.

Charlotte’s attack continued to pressure Toronto, forcing several big saves from goalkeeper Sean Johnson. On the defensive end, Charlotte limited Toronto to just 0.8 expected goals and few serious threats.

Despite the win, Smith acknowledged his side still has room for improvement. “We’re pleased with the result,” he said, “but we want more quality across the board.”

Charlotte now pauses league play for the Leagues Cup, kicking off Thursday night at home against FC Juarez.

F-16s Make Emergency Landing At South Carolina International Airport

Two U.S. Air Force F-16 fighter jets from Shaw Air Force Base made an emergency landing Monday morning at Myrtle Beach International Airport following a mechanical malfunction during a training mission.

The jets, part of the 20th Fighter Wing based in Sumter, South Carolina, began circling MYR shortly before 9:30 a.m. Witnesses on the ground reported seeing and hearing the aircraft overhead for several minutes before both planes landed safely.

The cause of the mechanical malfunction has not yet been disclosed. No injuries were reported and both aircraft were secured without incident.

Rare Sky Show: Two Meteor Showers Peaking Over Charlotte This Week

Two overlapping meteor showers will peak overnight on July 29 into July 30, giving Carolina stargazers a rare summer treat. The Southern Delta Aquariids and Alpha Capricornids will send shooting stars streaking across the night sky, especially in southern-facing areas with low light pollution.

The Southern Delta Aquariids, likely originating from comet 96P/Machholz, may produce up to 20 meteors per hour. These meteors move fast—about 25 miles per second—and sometimes leave glowing trails. Meanwhile, the Alpha Capricornids, which stem from comet 169P/NEAT, are slower but known for their occasional fireballs with long, dramatic tails.

While both showers are typically best seen from the Southern Hemisphere, viewers across the Carolinas may still catch a glimpse—especially after midnight and before dawn. The American Meteor Society recommends waiting until later in the night when the moon sets and the meteor radiants rise higher in the sky.

This week may also be the best time to view the famous Perseids, which will peak in August under a full moon. Because the moon is only 25% full now, experts suggest heading out early to catch bright Perseid meteors before moonlight interferes.

If you want to get your own shots of the meteors, you’ll need a long-exposure camera. Go to a very dark place where you have an unobstructed view toward the northern sky. The best place would be a remote mountain with north-facing views.

You can find the dark spots in your area using the official light pollution map here.

Happy meteor hunting!

Nature’s Rarest Bloom (and Worst Smelling Flower) Opening in North Carolina This Week

A rare botanical event is returning to Raleigh as Plant Delights Nursery at Juniper Level Botanic Garden prepares for its third-ever bloom of the Titan Arum—also known as the corpse flower.

Nicknamed Homo Erectus, the 10-year-old plant is expected to bloom between August 2 and 4, likely around 3 to 4 p.m. The flower is growing five inches per day and will only stay open for 24 to 48 hours. Known for its towering size and foul odor, the Titan Arum emits a scent like rotting meat to attract pollinators.

Native to Indonesia’s Sumatran rainforest, fewer than 1,000 plants remain in the wild. Fewer than 1,000 corpse flowers have bloomed in cultivation worldwide—just 17 previously in North Carolina.

The garden will open Monday through Friday, July 28–Aug. 1, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with extended hours likely during peak bloom.

The garden has already started a live stream where viewers can watch the flower bloom in real time:

Plant Delights will sell rare Amorphophallus species during the event, and the first 100 garden members in attendance will receive a free Amorphophallus konjac seedling.

The Juniper Level Botanic Garden is located at 9241 Sauls Rd., Raleigh, N.C.

Former NC Governor Roy Cooper Joins High-Stakes Senate Battle

Former North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper officially entered the 2026 U.S. Senate race on Monday, launching his campaign with a video announcement posted to social media. His decision follows Republican Sen. Thom Tillis’ decision not to seek reelection after sharp criticism from former President Donald Trump.

In the announcement, Cooper, a Democrat, focused on strengthening the middle class and defending Social Security and Medicaid. He said he’s “had enough” of Washington politicians raising the national debt and “disrespecting” veterans.

Cooper’s candidacy marks a major shift in a race that Democrats see as critical to regaining control of the U.S. Senate. Despite dominating recent gubernatorial races, the party has not won a North Carolina Senate seat since 2008.

In the video, Cooper highlighted his background as state attorney general and two-term governor. He noted his efforts to prosecute fraud, regulate powerful industries, and work across the aisle to expand Medicaid and balance the state budget.

His entry complicates the field for fellow Democrat and former Congressman Wiley Nickel, who launched his campaign in April. Nickel previously declined to say whether he would remain in the race if Cooper joined.

On the Republican side, RNC Chair Michael Whatley is expected to enter the race soon. Lara Trump, daughter-in-law of the former president, confirmed she would not run. In a statement Monday, the National Republican Senatorial Committee dismissed Cooper as a “Democrat lapdog.”

The race is expected to become one of the most competitive in the country, with high stakes for both parties heading into 2026.

Charlotte Setting New Historic Temperature Records as Dangerous Heat Wave Continues

Charlotte is now battling a brutal heat wave, with temperatures reaching 102 degrees Sunday — the city’s hottest day in 13 years. Saturday hit 101 degrees, setting a new record for July 26.

Forecasts show highs between 96 and 100 degrees through Thursday, with “feels-like” temperatures of 105 to 110 degrees. Heat alerts remain in effect across the Carolinas. This could end up being the could be hottest week in Charlotte’s history.

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

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

Relief is expected by Friday when a cold front brings cooler temperatures to the region.

Stay safe out there!

7 Moments When IGETHI Is Better Than a Glass of Wine

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Wine is not just another alcoholic drink; it is called the nectar of God. It has long held the spotlight in every social gathering, date night, and post-work rituals. But the vibe, the mode, and the preference are changing in 2025. Igethi is taking place and redefining how we unwind, socialise, and enjoy everyday moments.

Low in THC, high in chill, and refreshingly hangover-free, iGETHi offers a smooth social experience without the baggage that often comes with alcohol. Is your interest in it wellness-driven? Sober-curious? Fed up with groggy mornings? No matter the circumstances, Igethi is the newest addition to your routine. So, what are some of the situations in our lives when it is better to access Igethi than to pour a glass of wine, and every time? 

Unwinding After a Long Workday

When we have faced a marathon day in terms of meetings, to-do lists, and our minds are tired, most of us are craving something that will tell us it is time to relax. Alcohol is sometimes just the easy option, but it is usually followed by a hangover, sleepless nights, or an embarrassing second glass when you think the first one is over. It is difficult to make the right decision. 

Igethi is the better alcohol alternative and clean choice. And it does a very nice job, too, thanks to that tiny 5mg amount of THC, gradually letting you out of work mode and into evening come-down in such a gentle fashion that you even avoid getting high. You are not messy, but mellow. You do not wake up a wreck. It gives you relaxation at your choice, without any side effects.

Casual Hangouts with Friends

These are the occasions when a proper drink makes the difference. Not all want wine, and not all want to get buzzed in a minute. Igethi is both the most sociable and sippable, and the most inclusive. It initiates the discussion without making it sloppy. You are airy, free, and cozy. Better still, Igethi is open to non-drunkards who would equally like to get into the party. Igethi differs because it would divide the group between those who drink and those who do not, instead of making it a shared experience that everyone can vibe. It is a beverage that tells people: “Aim to cool, not crash.”

First Dates Where You Want to Stay Sharp and Chill

A first date is stressful enough as it is-you do not want to worry over every sentence that you say or about creating a positive impression. A glass of wine can help to ease the edge, but you can also lose touch with things and find yourself in an embarrassing position. Learn about Igethi alcohol alternative. It calms your nerves and maintains composure, combined with good mind focus. 

The minimal amount of THC will allow you to remain connected, witty, and self-confident, without the threat of getting drunk. You can be yourself, focus, and hear the other person, and you need not fear of wine breath and being too drunk. It is that sense of serene security in a can that you never knew you had.

Self-Care Nights

You have lit a candle, fired up your favorite show, and changed into the comfiest attire. It is your day. But instead of reaching for wine—which can sometimes derail your peace with sugar crashes or sleep disruptions—crack open an Igethi. It brings straight-up composure, uncompromised. No munchies that come with alcohol, no empty calories, no guilt. Nothing serious, just a bright, joyous buzz that allows you to remain within a moment. 

Igethi blocks your usual self-care activities and instead complements them. It helps you take the time to reflect and meditate or even just do nothing, in the form of a drink that helps you recharge instead of ruining your rest period.

Sunday Brunch: Skip the Bubbles, Keep the Buzz

When it comes to Igethi, it comes with the sparkle, but there is no slump. It is clean, fresh, and leaves you with a smooth boost that goes well with eggs Benedict and sundry discussions. It is also socially inclusive- perfect drink to have in hand when your friends are off booze, yet they want something entertaining. Igethi allows you to get all the buzz without missing the day. It keeps you alive, awake, and alert, so you can brunch it hard and still take the rest of your Sunday.

Family Gatherings Where You Need a Vibe, Not a Buzz

Family events are great, and you need to be honest here: they are all fabulous and so emotionally draining. A glass of wine could serve to dull the edge, but it could also fog your thoughts or make you quick to respond. Igethi makes you synchronize with your relations, instead of avoiding them. 

You remain composed and light-footed, and yet you are alert enough to get involved meaningfully. You can laugh easier at the embarrassing moments, sail through the small talk, and be perfectly present. And no danger of blabbing something you may regret at the dinner table. It makes your energy go to the ground, and this is what your family time most often requires.

Final Sip

Whether it be casual venues to a more intimate solo hangout, Igethi has shown that you do not have to be drunk to have a good time. It’s sleek, plant-based buzz, clear-cut ingredients, and sociable style. Igethi is not just a beverage, but a mindset change. Better sleep, fewer hangovers, an alternative way to party: you may be after any one of these things; what you get is a healthier form of feel-good with Igethi. This is the time to elevate your standards, and you can.

 

 

    

I-485 Collision Claims Six Lives in One of Charlotte’s Worst Crashes

Six people died and one teenager survived after a horrific crash on I-485 near Walkers Ferry Road Saturday morning, according to officials with the Steele Creek Fire Department.

At 11:06 a.m., a Honda CRV driven by 16-year-old Paul Sauer collided with a Chrysler van, pushing both vehicles beneath a tractor-trailer. Sauer and five passengers in the van were killed, including the van’s driver, 27-year-old Samuel Holmes, and children ages 1, 3, and 8. A 16-year-old girl from the van survived and was hospitalized. The tractor-trailer driver was not injured.

Crews worked more than five hours in extreme heat to lift the truck and reach the trapped vehicles. No charges are expected, but the investigation continues.

The crash closed the outer loop of I-485 for several hours. Emergency responders are receiving mental health support following the tragic scene.