Charlotte’s 12th Annual Run Jen Run Breaks Record and Raises More Than $172,000

0

Nearly 1,000 participants took strides for local breast cancer patients at Charlotte’s 12th Annual Run Jen Run 5K and Festival. To date, the event has raised more than $172,000 – the most raised in the event’s 12-year history – to support the Go Jen Go Foundation and local breast cancer community.

“We appreciate everyone involved for helping celebrate our twelfth year of Run Jen Run and Jen’s legacy while enduring the rain to show up for breast cancer patients who are facing a financial crisis,” said Susan Sears, executive director of Go Jen Go. “Our hearts are full, and our gratitude for our grantees, breast cancer survivors and thrivers, sponsors, donors, participants, ambassadors, volunteers, and race committee is overflowing.”

The event took place on Saturday, March 9 at Symphony Park in SouthPark, and also included a Fun Run, a festival with music, and a kids’ fun zone. There was also an expo area with community-driven sponsors and partners, Jen’s Garden of Hope with Signs of Hope on display, and a Survivor/Thriver Corner for breast cancer patients to be celebrated and connect.

Other event highlights include:

  • 950 participants and 56 teams
  • 110 breast cancer survivors, thrivers and fighters
  • 34 Go Jen Go Grantees
  • 44 sponsors and partners
  • 75 volunteers

Returning as title sponsor was Consolidated Planning, and presenting sponsors were Novant Health, TrinityPoint Wealth and Smiley’s 4 C’s Charitable Endowment. During opening ceremonies, Molly Grantham, who served as the emcee, was presented a recognition letter from City Councilman Tariq Bokhari on behalf of Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles for her 20-year television career and commitment to countless organizations and people in the community.

All proceeds from Run Jen Run support the Go Jen Go Foundation, which provides hope and critical support to families in the greater Charlotte area who are facing the financial burden of a breast cancer diagnosis.

Missing Charlotte Teen Rescued From Human Trafficking Operation in Rowan County

Rowan County Sheriff’s Office located a missing 16-year-old girl from Charlotte during an undercover human trafficking operation sting in Salisbury this week.

The girl’s identity and age are being withheld to protect her privacy. Authorities believe she was involved in a human trafficking ring led by a 33-year-old convicted felon whose name hasn’t yet been released.

Sheriff’s deputies declined to provide further details citing the active case.

They plan on holding a news conference this coming Monday at 2 pm to release more information.

Former Charlotte Mayor Pat McCrory Steps Down As Co-Chair of No Labels Party

0

Former Charlotte Mayor and NC Governor Pat McCrory has just announced that he is stepping down from the centrist group No Labels.

McCrory, who became the co-chairman of the No Labels Party in 2023, officially notified the group of his resignation this week as the party is currently in the process of selecting a presidential nominee for this coming November’s election. McCrory didn’t detail the reasons behind his departure, other than expressing a desire to dedicate more time to his family.

What do you think about McCrory’s decision and the No Labels party in general.

CMPD Officer Arrested For Stealing From Charlotte Resident During Traffic Stop

0

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) is currently undertaking a criminal investigation that has led to the apprehension of CMPD Officer Henry Chapman. This action follows a complaint from an individual under arrest claiming that the officer stole from him during the traffic stop.

The event occurred in the University City Division on Thursday, March 14, just after 4pm. Following the inquiry, CMPD detectives charged Officer Chapman with one count of Embezzlement.

“This is deeply disappointing  for our organization. We hold ourselves to the highest standards, and a violation of that trust is a serious offense. However, I want to assure the public that we take all allegations seriously, and we will not tolerate misconduct within our ranks,” CMPD Chief Jennings said in a statement. “I’m proud that the supervisor and other officers on scene took immediate and decisive action to investigate the situation and determine that our officer needed to be arrested. No CMPD employee is above the law.”

CMPD’s Internal Affairs is also conducting an investigation into the matter. As a result, Officer Chapman has been placed on unpaid administrative leave while the internal probe is underway.

Officer Chapman, who joined the force on September 14, 2009, was serving in the University City Division at the time of the incident.

North Carolina Defies National Trend with Massive Rise in Housing Permits

While permits and housing starts decline nationwide, North Carolina stands out as one of only nine states where permits either stagnated or slightly went up year-over-year, according to a new report from Point2.

Our state’s 7% increase in permitting activity compared to the previous year, hints at a potential expansion in housing options that could positively influence affordability and availability across the state.

Zooming in further to see where permits increased or decreased, the report found that:

  • The 98,086 new permits issued last year translate to a 7% Y-o-Y growth, placing the state on the third position when it comes to increases in permitting activity. There were more than 31,000 new permits issued for units in buildings with 5+units last year, suggesting a potential boost in multifamily housing options;
  • Of the state’s largest metros, Charlotte’s housing market saw an 8% increase in new home permits, while Raleigh experienced a slight -4% drop compared to 2022;
  • Most medium metros witnessed an increase in permitting activity, led by Winston-Salem with a 30% jump in permits issued, followed by Greensboro-High Point with a 11% rise in permits;
  • While Hickory, Wilmington, and New Bern faced permit declines ranging from -10% to -19%, reflecting localized challenges, six other small metros saw permits go up: Greenville led the way with a 48% jump in permit issuance, followed by Rocky Mount (44%) and Burlington (40%). These increases could translate to more and more affordable homes for future buyers in the area.

Mamaka Bowls Opening Their First Carolina Location in Charlotte

0

Charlotte is about to welcome the very first Mamaka Bowls location in the Carolinas.

The Texas-based acai eatery will open their 7th national location at the intersection of Hawkins and Tremont, right next to the soon-to-open Frenchy’s, KSQ Design, and the QC Pourhouse.

The upcoming Charlotte location will offer a range of acai and smoothie options, featuring a variety of customizable toppings as well as specialty coffees and other unique breakfast options.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by mamaka bowls (@mamakabowls)

Tesla EVs in 2024: Navigating Costs and Benefits of Leading Electric Vehicles

0

Unveiling Tesla’s 2024 Lineup: A Comprehensive Cost Analysis

Tesla continues to set benchmarks in the electric vehicle (EV) industry, with its models dominating sales charts and consumer preferences alike. The allure of Tesla’s offerings lies not just in their innovative technology and sustainability appeal but also in the diverse range of models catering to various needs and budgets. As we navigate through 2024, understanding the cost dynamics of owning a Tesla becomes crucial for prospective buyers. In this context, the financial journey of investing in a Tesla can be akin to boarding a rich rocket, promising both exhilarating advancements in sustainable transportation and potentially lucrative returns in the long run.

Tesla Model Breakdown and Pricing Structure

Tesla’s 2024 model lineup showcases a blend of performance, luxury, and innovation across several segments. Each model comes with its own set of trim levels, providing flexibility in terms of range, features, and pricing. Here’s a detailed breakdown, including the destination charge but excluding potential taxes and incentives:

  • Model 3: Starting at $40,380, the Model 3 remains Tesla’s entry point into the electric world, offering a balance between affordability and performance.
  • Model Y: With a starting price of $49,130, the Model Y combines the versatility of an SUV with Tesla’s signature efficiency and range.
  • Model S: Starting at $76,380, the Model S is Tesla’s flagship sedan, renowned for its breathtaking speed and luxurious interiors.
  • Model X: Priced from $81,380, the Model X is the epitome of electric SUV luxury, boasting falcon-wing doors and unmatched performance.
  • Cybertruck: With a unique aesthetic and starting price of $59,635, the Cybertruck is poised to redefine the pickup truck market.

Cost Variations and Upgrades

The variability in Tesla’s pricing extends beyond the base cost. Optional upgrades and customization can significantly influence the final price. For instance, opting for enhanced Autopilot features or the Full Self-Driving package can add to the cost, reflecting the premium for Tesla’s most advanced technologies.

Additional Considerations for Tesla Ownership

Owning a Tesla goes beyond the sticker price. Prospective buyers should consider the cost of charging infrastructure, potential savings from tax incentives, and lower operational costs compared to traditional internal combustion vehicles.

Charging Solutions and Infrastructure

The convenience of home charging setups and access to Tesla’s expansive Supercharger network plays a pivotal role in the EV experience. Installation of home charging equipment and usage costs at Superchargers are vital considerations for any Tesla owner.

Tax Incentives and Credits

Federal and state incentives can substantially lower the cost of purchasing a Tesla. The eligibility for these incentives, including the federal tax credit of up to $7,500, can make Tesla vehicles more accessible to a broader audience.

Financing and Leasing Options

Tesla provides flexible financing and leasing options, allowing customers to choose the best route according to their financial situations. These options include competitive interest rates and lease terms that cater to the customer’s mileage needs and budget constraints.

The Future of Tesla: Anticipated Models and Innovations

Tesla’s roadmap hints at exciting future models, including the highly anticipated Roadster and the speculated Model 2. These vehicles promise to push the boundaries of electric mobility further, offering cutting-edge technology and performance.

Making an Informed Decision

Investing in a Tesla in 2024 involves a thorough understanding of not only the purchase price but also the long-term benefits and costs associated with electric vehicle ownership. From unparalleled performance and sustainability to the economic advantages of EV incentives and lower operational costs, Tesla continues to offer compelling reasons for drivers to transition to electric.

In conclusion, as Tesla continues to lead the charge in the EV market, understanding the comprehensive costs and benefits of owning a Tesla in 2024 is essential for prospective buyers. With a range of models catering to different needs and budgets, combined with the potential for savings through tax incentives and lower running costs, Tesla remains at the forefront of the electric vehicle revolution, promising an exciting future for sustainable transportation.

Where Does North Carolina Rank in US Streaming Stats?

0

Americans are now streaming more TV than ever. 75% of households in the US have a subscription to one or more streaming services. With over 800,000 new TV shows available each year, it’s safe to say that there’s plenty of content out there. According to viewing data, the most popular services are Netflix and Hulu. Using data from Google Trends, it’s possible to find out which states can’t resist streaming and where North Carolina ranks among them.

Hulu Isn’t the Most Popular Service in North Carolina

When you look at the five major streaming services available, the only one that is the favorite in over half of US states is Hulu. People in Montana and Vermont are searching for it the most. In North Carolina however, it seems that Netflix is the favorite. A lot of its popularity could be down to the new Netflix gaming platform, which is now available widely across the US. This has led to bolstered growth in states such as New Jersey, which is now experiencing a 12% growth in gaming revenue. NJ online casinos are becoming more popular too, as people seek entertainment they can use on the go. These days, many platforms also offer downloadable apps to cater to this demand.

However, while the Netflix gaming app is very popular, it seems that in some states the company is being beaten by other streaming companies. HBO Max tops six states, including Colorado, California and Oregon. Amazon Prime only came out on top in one state, Alaska. Amazon, like Netflix, is also taking steps to try and push its user base. It’s releasing new original shows by the year and heavily investing in new markets. Its investment in Rings of Power was set to rival Game of Thrones, showing that the behemoth is trying to gain an edge in the highly competitive US market.

Which State Streams the Most?

Out of all of the US states, it seems that Vermont streams the most. Vermont’s favorite streaming services include Hulu, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video and Netflix. In an interesting twist, all five of the top states for streaming are in the northern part of the US. Out of all of the states, North Carolina ranks at number 42. Although the country is behind in streaming numbers, the state’s preference for Netflix is evident. When you break down the data even more, it’s possible to see which US states have a preference for which TV shows. In North Carolina for example there’s a strong preference for The Diplomat, whereas in Oklahoma, the viewership for Kaleidoscope is higher. Wyoming prefers shows like Beef, with Utah having higher streaming numbers for Harry and Meghan. 

It’s interesting to see where North Carolina ranks in terms of streaming stats for the US, and it’s also plain to see that some states have a preference for some streaming services over others. A lot of this comes down to content preference, but things like Netflix’s gaming platform, and Amazon’s delivery service bundled with Prime Video, also come into play. 

Tiny Home Festival Coming To Charlotte Next Month

0

The Carolina Tiny House Festival is coming to Charlotte next month.

The event will take place at the Charlotte Motor Speedway April 13th-14th.

Discover the world of tiny houses and explore innovative designs, creative solutions, and sustainable living. The festival will be geared toward both the tiny house enthusiast and tiny house curious alike.

Get inspired by compact homes on display, chat with builders, vendors, and experts, learn about the latest trends in tiny living.

You can find out more on their website here.

Lennar To Build Over 1,800 Homes in Massive New Charlotte Hwy Development

National homebuilder Lennar this week announced plans to start building at least 1,800 new homes at a massive new development off Charlotte Highway.

Situated on a 1,475-acre plot between downtown Lancaster and Charlotte, the new Roselyn development promises a blend of modern living and natural beauty.

Construction is set to proceed in seven phases, with homes in the first phase starting in the coming weeks. Amenities will include; a clubhouse, swimming pool, fitness center, pickleball courts, and extensive green spaces.

The project, greenlit by Lancaster County in 2018 and acquired by Lennar in 2019, also includes a future 84-acre, $73 million regional park, funded by a 2% hospitality tax.

Roselyn aims to provide a comprehensive lifestyle with its mix of home options, outdoor activities, and proximity to local attractions, making it an attractive option for those seeking an engaging retirement community.