Belmont Trolley Project Receives $1 Million State Grant for Revitalization and Expansion

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Belmont Trolley Project Receives $1 Million State Grant for Revitalization and Expansion

In a significant boost to local transportation and heritage preservation, the Belmont Trolley nonprofit has just been awarded a $1 million grant by the State of North Carolina. This funding is earmarked for the construction of a new trolley facility and the restoration of historic trolley cars.

Phase 1: Connecting Belmont to Belmont Abbey The initial phase of the trolley route will connect Belmont with Belmont Abbey, with future expansions potentially extending to McAdenville, Lowell, Ranlo, and Gastonia. This development is part of a broader vision to enhance connectivity and walkability in the region.

A New Hub for Belmont: Station with Multiple Facilities The proposed station in Belmont’s historic downtown is set to become a multifaceted hub. It will house three trolleys, a museum, and an innovation center focusing on emerging technologies. Additionally, a large event center is planned, further boosting the area’s economic and cultural landscape.

Belmont Trolley: Blending History with Innovation Originating from the idea to revive a dormant rail line in downtown Belmont, the Belmont Trolley project has grown into a symbol of local history and forward-thinking green technology. In collaboration with the William States Lee College of Engineering, the project is pioneering the use of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries in its trolleys, positioning Gaston County as a leader in sustainable electric rail transport.

Deep Historical Roots The trolley service is steeped in local history, tracing back to the Piedmont & Northern Railway’s operations, which included a key route between Charlotte and Gastonia. Notably, in 1916, a route was added to connect downtown Belmont directly, highlighting the area’s rich rail heritage.

Partnerships for a Sustainable Future Through strategic partnerships, Belmont Trolley aims to create a vibrant economic hub and a gathering place for the community, ensuring long-term benefits and sustainability.

Modernizing the Past The restoration of the three trolley cars is a unique blend of historical reverence and modern innovation, symbolizing the project’s commitment to preserving the past while embracing new technologies.

A New Destination in Belmont The new station is poised to become a landmark in Belmont, offering not just a transportation service but also educational and cultural experiences through its museum and innovation center.

For Charlotte area residents, the Belmont Trolley project represents an exciting fusion of history, technology, and community development, promising to be a valuable addition to the region’s cultural and transportation landscape.

Storms Brought Record Rainfall and Tornadoes to Carolinas – 45k Still Without Power

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Storms Brought Record Rainfall and Tornadoes to Carolinas – 45k Still Without Power

Yesterday the Carolinas experienced one of the worst winter storms we’ve seen in years, with record rainfall, strong winds, tornadoes, and thunderstorms.

One of the first reported tornadoes in our state landed just north of Charlotte and temporarily shut down traffic on I-40.

Yesterday, Charlotte recorded a total of 2.48 inches of rainfall, beating the previous Jan 9th record of 1.91 inches set back in 1921. The massive amount of rain falling in such a short timeframe resulted in flooding throughout our region.

Duke Energy has been working to restore power in the affected areas, but thousands remain without electricity.

As of 10 a.m. Wednesday, there were still 42,577 customers in the Carolinas without power, according to Duke Energy.

Can I Get A Prenup In The UK?

Sharon Anderson
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Can I Get A Prenup In The UK?

Whether you have just accepted a proposal or are about to pop the question to your partner, the last thing on your mind is going to be the end of your relationship.

Happy and healthy relationships are not usually concerned with the risk of ending, and this can continue even as you develop through life stages together. However, even though you may not be concerned with the ending of your partnership, it is something to consider for your own protection.

This may not necessarily be the most romantic or fun conversation to have at such a happy time, but it is important if you want to protect your interests.

What Is A Prenup?

A prenuptial agreement may not be considered a common occurrence in the UK, but it is an important step to take before you get married.

This legal contract is a way of preparing if the unfortunate thing happens and the marriage does not survive and sets out how assets will be split during divorce.

As this is a fairly sensitive subject, it is common for couples across the country to neglect even considering a prenup before marriage, but this is risky. While you may not want to think about the ending of your relationship or perhaps consider it impossible at this current stage, the future is not something we can determine but you can prepare for it.

Signing a prenup can make things easier down the line and allows both parties to protect their own interests if the unfortunate event of divorce does occur.

Can I Get A Prenup In The UK?

Signing a prenuptial agreement UK needs to be done at least 28 days before the day of your wedding.

This is a legally binding agreement that will be used during the divorce, if this ever occurs, to highlight which party is entitled to specific assets. This contract must be created and signed ahead of the marriage, and the more time between the signing and the day of the event, the better.

It is legally required for there to be at least 28 days between the signing of the contract and the wedding, as this reduces the risk of coercion and allows both parties to have their say in the document.

Without a prenuptial agreement, in the event of divorce, assets will be split based on the court’s discretion, and this may not be what either of you want. Signing this contract ahead of your wedding is simply a smart move that protects both you and your partner ahead of time.

This can also be a good opportunity for you to talk to your partner about your marriage, their goals, and your overall opinion of your relationship before you walk down the aisle.

Signing a prenup does not have to be the cause of an argument, nor does it have to be an upsetting time for you as a couple, as it is simply a smart move for both parties.

Governor Cooper Declares State of Emergency Ahead of Today’s Massive Winter Storm

Charlotte Stories
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Governor Cooper Declares State of Emergency Ahead of Today’s Massive Winter Storm

A massive storm system is moving through our state today, bringing with it potential flash flooding, damaging winds of up to 50 mph, and the chance for tornadoes.

In response, Governor Roy Cooper has declared a State of Emergency.

“This storm system has the potential to bring high winds and other dangerous storm conditions to North Carolina, and people should be aware and take precautions,” Governor Cooper said in a press release. “Be sure your emergency kits are up to date and pay attention to the weather in your area, especially any weather alerts such as flash flood warnings.”

A Wind Advisory is now in effect for the Charlotte region from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., with southward winds of 20-30 mph and gusts up to 50 mph. Mountain areas may experience winds up to 60 mph, warranting a High Wind Warning. Peak winds in Charlotte are expected between noon and 4 p.m.

Heavy rain is forecasted to start in the morning, intensifying in the afternoon with the thunderstorms. Rainfall could range from 1-2 inches, but some predictions suggest up to 3-5 inches, increasing the risk of flash flooding.

The most severe weather is likely to occur east and southeast of Charlotte.

North Carolina Emergency Management officials remind all residents to: 

Buc-ee’s Receives Final Approval To Build The Largest Gas Station in North Carolina

Charlotte Stories
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Buc-ee’s Receives Final Approval To Build The Largest Gas Station in North Carolina

Buc-ee’s, the beloved Texas-based chain, has just been given final approval to build the largest gas station in North Carolina off I-85.

The plan includes constructing a massive 75,440-square-foot facility featuring up to 120 gas pumps, 8 diesel exhaust fluid pumps, 20 electric vehicle charging stations, multiple restaurants, retail spaces, and offices.

Following an extensive public comment period, the Mebane City Council in Alamance County voted early Tuesday morning to approve a rezoning request and special-use permit for the sprawling 32-acre facility.

This new Buc-ee’s will be situated at 1447 Trollingwood-Hawfields Road within the 1,200-acre NC Commerce Park.

Although the station will not accommodate tractor-trailer trucks, a traffic analysis indicates it could generate over 2,000 vehicle trips per hour during peak times on Saturdays.

Buc-ee’s has informed Alamance County officials of its intention to hire approximately 225 full-time employees for the new location.

Currently, there is one Buc-ee’s in South Carolina, opened in 2020 in Florence, SC, but the proposed North Carolina site is set to be significantly larger.

North Carolinians Worked 2 Billion More Unpaid Hours Last Year, Study Finds

Charlotte Stories
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North Carolinians Worked 2 Billion More Unpaid Hours Last Year, Study Finds

As 2024 begins, employees are finding that their bargaining power isn’t what it used to be. About a year ago, job opportunities and rising wages were abundant, but now, those trends are reversing, with fewer openings and slower wage growth. A recent comprehensive study by Project Management unveils a troubling trend – the amount of unpaid overtime labor that workers are contributing saw a staggering uptick last year. They surveyed 3,000 employees, with some astonishing observations.

The data reveals a collective surge of 46 billion unpaid overtime hours in 2023, dwarfing figures from the previous year. On average, workers contributed an additional 4.5 hours per week for no compensation, totaling an extra 233 hours annually.

Residents of New Hampshire bore the brunt of this trend, reporting nearly 10 extra hours of unpaid overtime each week. Conversely, Montanans experienced slight decrease in such hours.

When it comes to North Carolina workers, it was found that they worked an extra 6.1 hours per week of unpaid overtime last year, compared to 2022. This equates to 317 hours over the year per employee, and collectively as a state this amounts to a whopping 2,088,910,260 hours.

The top 5 states who worked more unpaid overtime in 2023:

1. New Hampshire (9.9 more hours)

2. Iowa (7.6 more hours)

3. Alaska (7.4 more hours)

4. Utah (6.3 more hours)

5. North Carolina (6.1 more hours)

‌The 5 states with the smallest increases in unpaid overtime:

50. Montana (0.6 hours less)

49. Hawaii (0.9 more hours)

48. Idaho (1.9 more hours)

47. Maryland (2.1 more hours)

46. Arizona (2.7 more hours)

Charlotte Knights Just Announced Plans To Sell Out For Potentially $100 Million

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Charlotte Knights Just Announced Plans To Sell Out For Potentially $100 Million

The Charlotte Knights ownership have just announced plans to sell the team along with Uptown’s Truist Field in a deal that could fetch over $100 million.

Don Beaver currently owns 90% of the team, which he purchased in 1997 for just $10 million. Bill Allen,  the minority owner, has also agreed to sell his 10% stake.

“The Charlotte Knights have notified Major League Baseball that they will begin the process of exploring the potential sale of the team,” said Knights spokesperson Tommy Viola. “A few prospective interested parties have inquired about the team and the ballpark. We want to vet the interested groups to see if a sale makes sense for Don Beaver and his family. The Knights have been a tremendous asset to the Greater Charlotte Region and we are committed to continuing that legacy for years to come.”

According to the Charlotte Business Journal, the team could be worth as much as $100 million;

According to team officials, there has already been interest from several potential buyers in both the team and its ballpark.

What do you think about the sale?

Weather Alert: Heavy Rain and Wind Gusts Up to 45 mph Tonight and Tomorrow

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Weather Alert: Heavy Rain and Wind Gusts Up to 45 mph Tonight and Tomorrow

Another major storm system will be sweeping across the Charlotte region this week, bringing potential flooding and power outages with it.

The National Weather Service just issued the following alert:

...FLOOD WATCH IN EFFECT FROM LATE TONIGHT THROUGH TUESDAY EVENING...

* WHAT...Flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be
  possible.

* WHERE...Portions of northeast Georgia, including the following
  areas, Franklin and Hart, North Carolina, including the following
  areas, Alexander, Avery, Buncombe, Burke Mountains, Caldwell
  Mountains, Catawba, Cleveland, Eastern McDowell, Gaston, Greater
  Burke, Greater Caldwell, Haywood, Lincoln, McDowell Mountains,
  Mitchell, Northern Jackson and Yancey, and upstate South Carolina,
  including the following areas, Anderson, Cherokee, Southern
  Greenville and Southern Spartanburg.

* WHEN...From late tonight through Tuesday evening.

* IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers,
  creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...
  - A powerful low pressure system will spread heavy rain across
    the region beginning this evening and continuing into
    Tuesday.  Rainfall amounts of 3 to 5 inches are expected
    across northeast Georgia, the northern Upstate north of
    Interstate 85, and the southern mountains of North Carolina.
    Some locations in the mountains could get 6 inches of rain.
    The threat of flash flooding has been increased given the
    recent rainfall in this area.

Today we’ll see overnight temperatures in the 20s and 30s, light winds, and patchy clouds.

The rain will start early on Tuesday, including a chance of an isolated tornado near Charlotte, as the center of the low-pressure system moves through. Wind gusts could reach 40-45 mph.

Heavy rain tapers off late Tuesday, with temperatures in the low 60s. Some snow showers may persist in western areas. Wednesday will be breezy and cool with sunshine and highs in the low 50s. Dry and cool conditions continue into Thursday, followed by showers on Friday and into the weekend.

VP Harris Coming To Charlotte This Week To Launch 2024 Campaign

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VP Harris Coming To Charlotte This Week To Launch 2024 Campaign

This week marks the beginning of the 2024 campaign season, with both President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris visiting the Carolinas. Vice President Harris is scheduled to be in Charlotte on Thursday, coinciding with President Biden’s campaign speech in Charleston.

In Charlotte, Vice President Harris will focus on the Biden Administration’s initiatives to curb gun violence. She will be meeting with educators, counselors, parents, gun safety advocates, and local and state officials. U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona is also set to attend.

During her visit, Harris will announce funding from the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, aimed at enhancing mental health resources in schools.

Vice President Harris has made nine visits to North Carolina during her tenure, including a trip to Greensboro last September and a visit to Charlotte in June to commemorate the anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision being overturned.

Panthers End Abysmal 2-15 Season with Second Shutout Since 2002

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Panthers End Abysmal 2-15 Season with Second Shutout Since 2002

The Carolina Panthers just ended their 2-15 season with their second consecutive shutout (their last shutout before last week was in 2002), losing 9-0 to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who secured their third NFC South title in a row.

In their final game, the Panthers’ offense struggled, totaling only 199 yards and failing to score, a first in franchise history for back-to-back games. Key moments included a negated 43-yard touchdown due to a fumble and penalties that overturned potential scores.

Despite the team’s overall challenges, running back Chuba Hubbard and defensive tackle Derrick Brown stood out. Brown broke the league record for most tackles by a defensive lineman in a season, while Hubbard remained a consistent force.

Quarterback Bryce Young was sacked three times, tying the franchise record for most sacks in a single season.

The Panthers now face an offseason focused on rebuilding players, coaches, and as of this morning, finding a new general manager.

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