A New Public Beach Is Being Built on Lake Norman For Charlotte-Area Residents

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A New Public Beach Is Being Built on Lake Norman For Charlotte-Area Residents

A new public beach is coming to Lake Norman‘s Beatty’s Ford Park, just 25 miles north of Charlotte.

The new beach will feature a designated swimming area, fishing pier, and additional paved parking for the park. According to Duke Energy, the maximum capacity at the beach is expected to be around 350, and the swimming area at the beach will be protected from boat traffic with a sweeping buoy line.

It’s expected to open early next year, and will become the third public access area for swimming on Lake Norman, joining Ramsey Creek Park Beach in Cornelius and Lake Norman State Park Beach in Troutman.

The new beach project is being led by Duke Energy, which is required to provide amenities on the lake under its 2006 Comprehensive Relicensing Agreement, and as a condition for keeping its hydroelectric operating license issued by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in 2015. The beach will offer a new opportunity for locals and visitors alike to enjoy Lake Norman’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

Lake Norman has a rich history as a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The lake was created in the early 1960s by Duke Power Company for hydroelectric power, flood control, and recreation. Today, it is a beloved destination for boating, fishing, swimming, and other outdoor activities, attracting millions of visitors each year.

What do you think about the new beach?

How can I sell my life insurance policy?

Sharon Anderson
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How can I sell my life insurance policy?

Life insurance policies have traditionally been regarded as a financial safety net, providing security for loved ones during untimely death. But what if you could transform this dormant asset into a source of immediate liquidity? To sell a life insurance policy is an alternative gaining momentum and could provide a significant financial boost.

Understanding the Value of Your Life Insurance Policy

Policy Value vs. Cash Surrender Value

Before you delve into the procedure of selling your life insurance policy, it’s essential to comprehend its worth. The policy value refers to the amount your beneficiaries would receive upon death.

In contrast, the cash surrender value is the sum you’d get if you cancel the policy prematurely. Notably, selling your policy to investors often yields a significant increase compared to the cash surrender value, leading to more substantial financial gain. Click here to learn more.

When is the Right Time to Sell Life Insurance Policy?

Factors to Consider

The decision to sell a life insurance policy should not be taken lightly. It requires careful consideration of several factors, such as your current financial situation, future income prospects, and your dependents’ needs. A common reason policyholders opt to sell is when they need immediate liquidity.

The Impact of Liquidity Needs

Whether it’s to pay off debts, fund retirement, or address health care costs, having access to immediate funds can drastically improve your financial stability. By selling your life insurance policy, you convert a long-term asset into instant cash, meeting your present financial needs without waiting for the policy to mature.

The Process of Selling Your Life Insurance Policy

From Finding Buyers to Finalizing the Sale

Selling your life insurance policy involves several steps. Firstly, you must find potential buyers, from individual investors to institutional entities. Once you’ve secured a buyer, you’ll negotiate the sale price, typically higher than the cash surrender value but lower than the death benefit.

Charlotte-area hotels look to fill nearly 1,100 open jobs

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Charlotte-area hotels look to fill nearly 1,100 open jobs

There are currently nearly 1,100 open hotel jobs in the Charlotte area, according to Indeed.com.

Filling these positions is critical to the economic health of Charlotte and North Carolina. Last year alone, hotel guests spent more than $13.5 billion in destinations across the state, and North Carolina hotels generated nearly $1.2 billion in federal, state, and local tax revenue.

Amid the busy summer travel season, hotels are looking to quickly fill open positions to meet travel demand. Hoteliers are offering potential hires a host of incentives to fill vacancies, according to a national survey of hoteliers conducted by the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA).

Seventy-five percent of respondents are increasing wages, 64% are offering greater flexibility with hours, and 36% are expanding benefits – but 87% say they are still unable to fill open positions.

Eighty-two percent of survey respondents indicate they are experiencing a staffing shortage, 26% severely so – meaning the shortage is impacting the hotel’s ability to operate. The most critical staffing need is housekeeping, with 40% ranking it as their top hiring need. Hotels, however, are seeking employees in a multitude of roles from entry-level through management.

These staffing challenges are resulting in historic career opportunities for hotel employees. There are nearly 100,000 hotel jobs currently open across the nation, and as of May, national average hotel wages were at a near-historic high of more than $23.50 per hour. Since the pandemic, average hotel wages (+25%) have increased more than 47% faster than average wages throughout the general economy (+17%), and hotel benefits and flexibility are better than ever.

“The need for workers throughout the lodging industry continues to drive historic career opportunities for hotel employees, who are enjoying near-record wages and better benefits and flexibility than ever before,” said AHLA President & CEO Chip Rogers. “That’s why AHLA and the AHLA Foundation remain focused on growing the industry’s talent pipeline through workforce recruitment and retention initiatives like the Foundation’s Empowering Youth and Registered Apprenticeship programs. But there is still more to be done. We need Congress to help address workforce shortages with bipartisan solutions, including those that create opportunities for more immigrants to enter the American economy.”

As of May, the United States had 9.8 million job openings, but only 6.1 million unemployed people to fill them, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Congress can help hoteliers address workforce shortages by taking the following actions:

  • Expand the legal H-2B guestworker program by including an H-2B Returning Worker Exemption in the Fiscal Year 2024 Department of Homeland Security appropriations bill. The H-2B program is vital to helping independent hotels and resorts in remote vacation destinations fill seasonal roles, but the program is capped at 66,000 visas each year. AHLA is asking Congress to modify the H-2B nonimmigrant visa program by exempting returning workers from the inadequate 66,000 annual visa cap. These employees would provide critical staffing relief for seasonal small business hotels and help to rebuild the post-pandemic economy.
  • Cosponsor and pass the Asylum Seeker Work Authorization Act (255/H.R.1325). A historic number of asylum seekers are already housed in hotels across America. They are awaiting court dates and are following the legal process. Unfortunately, current law prevents them from legally working for at least six months, forcing them to rely on assistance from local governments and communities. This bipartisan legislation would help hotels address critical staffing needs by allowing asylum seekers to work as soon as 30 days after applying for asylum.

To schedule an interview with an AHLA representative to discuss hotel job opportunities or summer travel, email media@ahla.com.

Yesterday’s Historic EF3 Tornado Destroyed Roads, Homes, and Pfizer’s Largest NC Drug Plant

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Yesterday’s Historic EF3 Tornado Destroyed Roads, Homes, and Pfizer’s Largest NC Drug Plant

The tornado that struck North Carolina yesterday has now been documented as the most powerful July tornado in North Carolina’s history.

The storm uprooted thousands of trees, destroyed hundreds of homes, and catastrophically damaged one of the largest Pfizer drug manufacturing facilities in the world (supplier of 25% of all injectables to the US hospitals).

Damage assessments carried out by the National Weather Service’s meteorologists along the tornado’s trail suggest wind speeds of up to 150 mph, classifying it as an EF3 on the Enhanced Fujita scale (most tornadoes in North Carolina are between EF0-EF1).

The twister traced a path more than 16 miles long through Nash and Edgecombe Counties, reaching widths of up to 600 yards.

Yesterday’s historic storm and subsequent damage was even covered this morning on Good Morning America:

NC Broadband Division Seeking Strategic Advisory Services for Broadband and Digital Equity Programs

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NC Broadband Division Seeking Strategic Advisory Services for Broadband and Digital Equity Programs

The N.C. Department of Information Technology’s Division of Broadband and Digital Equity posted a request for proposals (RFP) inviting qualified vendors to submit a proposal detailing how they would provide strategic advisory services for a wide range of programs that improve access to high-speed internet throughout North Carolina, including:

  • Digital Equity
  • Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD)
  • Growing Rural Economies with Access to Technology (GREAT)
  • Completing Access to Broadband (CAB)
  • Stop-Gap Solutions
  • Broadband Pole Replacement

The services requested in the RFP will ensure the division uses available funding sources effectively by providing services that may relate to program design, evaluation and strategic planning. In addition to covering the programs listed above, proposals should identify and provide scope expansions in areas where vendors have prior experience, knowledge and expertise.

“Thanks to funding from the American Rescue Plan and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for high-speed internet infrastructure and digital equity, North Carolina is well positioned to permanently close the digital divide,” said NCDIT Deputy Secretary for Broadband and Digital Equity Nate Denny. “These strategic advisory services will enhance the work our team is already doing to leverage these funds to their maximum benefit and demonstrate strong stewardship of taxpayer resources.”

Vendors may submit proposals via the NC electronic Vendor Portal (eVP) at evp.nc.gov/solicitations until 2 p.m. on Aug. 8.

For more information about the NCDIT Division of Broadband and Digital Equity and Governor Cooper’s plan to close the digital divide in North Carolina, please visit www.ncbroadband.gov.

How to Incorporate Renewable Energy Into Your Real Estate

Sharon Anderson
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How to Incorporate Renewable Energy Into Your Real Estate

If you work in real estate or are considering building your own home, a trend you should really consider is to use renewable energy for power. Building a property from scratch already has many benefits, but renewable energy can really upgrade your return.

Not only will you be contributing to saving the planet from climate change by reducing your carbon footprint, you’re setting yourself up for indefinite energy, and you’ll actually save money in the long run. Yes, you read that right!

Here are three ways to incorporate renewable energy into your property.

1. Solar Panels

Solar panels have come a long way since their invention; did you know you can now get a flexible solar panel that can fit onto a car or boat? But when it comes to using them for properties, it’s a no-brainer.

The new technologies used for the panels mean they are budget-friendly, ultra-efficient, and can power an entire property if you’re in a really sunny area. You’ll make the money back in no time, and your wallet and conscience will be happy.

2. Wind Power

A common misconception is that wind turbines are only available in the mega-huge size you see on a coastline, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, smaller house-friendly sized turbines exist, and if you live or are building in a windy area, they might just be a game changer for you.

You can either place them in your garden or directly onto the building, and some estimate that you can save hundreds of dollars annually.

You’ll need to have your wind turbine installed and maintained by a professional, but as far as we can see, the benefits far outweigh the negatives.

3. Earth Shelter

This final option might seem a little more radical and is only applicable if you haven’t yet planned exactly where to build your property, but hear us out.

An earth-sheltered home is a property that is built into the land. Yes, – as in, quite literally, built into a hill. Ideally, it should be on a south-facing slope, as that means you’ll get the sun on the property’s windows during the day. After that, your property will be heated and insulated by the land itself, and you’ll be surprised just how well it works.

This is a great option if you’re looking to get back in touch with nature.

Upgrade Your Property and Help the Planet Today!

As you can see, plenty of options are available if you want to upgrade your property and make it a little more planet-friendly. The best idea is to evaluate the area you plan on building in to see which option is best for you.

But one thing’s for sure – with renewable power as the cheapest form of energy today, you’re sure to reap the financial benefits of this decision. How will you be climate change-proofing your next build? Will it be solar, wind, the earth itself, or something else?

Munich Marvels: Exploring the Cultural and Historic Charms of Bavaria

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Munich Marvels: Exploring the Cultural and Historic Charms of Bavaria

Nestled in the heart of Bavaria, Munich stands as a vibrant city that seamlessly blends its rich history with modern allure. With a wealth of cultural landmarks, charming architecture, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, Munich beckons travellers from around the world to experience its wonders. If you’re looking for an unforgettable vacation that encompasses the very best of Munich, consider opting for the best Munich vacation packages available. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey through the cultural and historic marvels of Munich while highlighting the top things to do in this captivating German city.

Munich in a Nutshell – A Cultural Tapestry

To kickstart your Munich adventure and discover the best things to do in Munich, embark on a comprehensive city tour that unveils the essence of this Bavarian gem. The Marienplatz, Munich’s central square, stands as a testament to the city’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere. As the heart of the city, it boasts an impressive blend of architectural styles and serves as the perfect starting point for your exploration. Don’t miss the opportunity to admire the iconic Glockenspiel at the New Town Hall, a remarkable feature that comes to life with charming figurines and melodies at specific times of the day, enchanting visitors and locals alike with its captivating display.

Discover Munich’s Royal Legacy

No visit to Munich would be complete without exploring its royal heritage. Make your way to Nymphenburg Palace, a splendid Baroque-style palace surrounded by immaculate gardens and tranquil lakes. Stroll through opulent rooms, including the famous Hall of Mirrors, and learn about Bavaria’s royal past. Don’t forget to take a leisurely gondola ride on the serene Nymphenburg Canal, offering a unique perspective of the palace’s beauty.

Delve into History at Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site

As you immerse yourself in Munich’s history, take a poignant trip to the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site. A short distance from the city centre, this sombre site stands as a reminder of the atrocities of World War II. Walk through the preserved barracks and visit the museum to gain a profound understanding of the camp’s history and the resilience of its survivors.

Art and Culture at Pinakotheken Museums

Munich is a haven for art enthusiasts, and the Pinakotheken Museums are a testament to the city’s cultural wealth. The Alte Pinakothek houses a remarkable collection of European masterpieces from the Middle Ages to the Baroque period. At the Neue Pinakothek, discover an array of 19th-century art, including works by Van Gogh and Monet. For modern and contemporary art, head to the Pinakothek der Moderne, showcasing pieces by prominent artists like Picasso and Warhol.

Engage Your Senses at Viktualienmarkt

Indulge in Munich’s culinary delights at the Viktualienmarkt, a vibrant food market brimming with fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and delectable treats. Sample traditional Bavarian dishes such as Weisswurst and Brezn, while savouring a cold, refreshing Maß (a litre of beer) at one of the lively beer gardens nearby.

Serenity at English Garden

Escape the bustling city and find serenity in the English Garden, one of the largest urban parks in the world. Stroll along the tree-lined paths, visit the Japanese Teahouse, or watch surfers catching waves on the Eisbach River. This green oasis provides the perfect opportunity to relax and recharge amidst nature.

Things to Do in Munich: Raise a Toast at Hofbräuhaus

No trip to Munich is complete without experiencing the lively atmosphere of the Hofbräuhaus. Dating back to the 16th century, this iconic beer hall offers a quintessential Bavarian experience. Raise a stein of beer, join in on traditional folk music, and revel in the camaraderie of locals and visitors alike.

Day Trips from Munich: Bavaria’s Enchanting Countryside

While Munich itself offers an array of captivating experiences, the surrounding Bavarian countryside is equally enticing. Take advantage of your visit to embark on unforgettable day trips from Munich. Just an hour’s drive away, you’ll find the fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle, perched majestically atop a hill. This iconic castle, said to have inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle, boasts breathtaking views and enchanting interiors. Another must-visit destination is the charming town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Nestled in the Bavarian Alps, Garmisch-Partenkirchen offers fantastic skiing in winter and picturesque hiking trails during the warmer months.

Embrace the Festive Spirit: Oktoberfest and Beyond

If your Munich vacation coincides with late September to early October, you’re in for a treat with the world-renowned Oktoberfest. This annual beer festival attracts millions of visitors from across the globe, seeking to revel in Bavarian traditions and sample the finest brews. Don your dirndl or lederhosen, join the festivities, and immerse yourself in the jovial atmosphere.

Even if your visit doesn’t align with Oktoberfest, Munich’s festive spirit remains alive throughout the year. Christmas markets are a cherished Bavarian tradition, and Munich’s markets are a sight to behold. The Marienplatz transforms into a winter wonderland, adorned with twinkling lights and festively decorated stalls selling holiday treats and handcrafted gifts. The joyful ambiance, accompanied by the scent of mulled wine and gingerbread, will surely leave you with heartwarming memories of your Munich adventure.

Conclusion

Munich is a city of marvellous contrasts, where centuries-old traditions seamlessly blend with modernity. Explore its cultural landmarks, immerse yourself in its art and history, and savour the tastes of traditional Bavarian cuisine. Venture into the beautiful Bavarian countryside and discover fairytale castles and picturesque landscapes. Whether you’re enjoying the festive cheer of Oktoberfest or the tranquillity of the English Garden, Munich promises an unforgettable experience.

To make the most of your trip and ensure a seamless visit to the city’s highlights, consider opting for the best Munich vacation packages. These thoughtfully curated packages will provide you with an enriching and comprehensive experience, leaving you with cherished memories of your time in this captivating German city. So, pack your bags, raise a stein of beer at the Hofbräuhaus, and embark on a journey through Munich’s cultural and historic charms in the heart of Bavaria.

 

VinFast About To Break Ground On $7 Billion EV Manufacturing Megacomplex in NC – Its First in America

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VinFast About To Break Ground On $7 Billion EV Manufacturing Megacomplex in NC – Its First in America

VinFast, the automotive arm of Vietnamese conglomerate Vingroup, is set to break ground on its first US electric vehicle (EV) megacomplex in North Carolina on July 28th. This pioneering $7 billion, 2.8 million square foot EV factory is poised to bolster the North American EV supply and boost the global green mobility movement.

Located about 100 miles east of Charlotte in Chatham County, the 1,800-acre facility aims to produce 150,000 vehicles annually in its initial phase. The factory will be comprised of production and assembly areas and will also host related supplier businesses.

A few days ago, the company submitted the official zoning request to Chatham County, with detailed site plans and building functions. According to the plans, the company plans to build a total of 8 structures with over 2.8 million square feet, including a body shop, press shop, paint shop, pump house, guard house, waste building, and their own energy plant.

via ChathamCountync.gov

VinFast Auto CEO, Le Thi Thu Thuy, confirmed in a press release that the factory would primarily supply EVs to the North American market and support North Carolina’s green mobility strategy.

The company is offering early buyers a $3,000-$5,000 rebate off their new US VF 8 and VF 9 models if they reserve early here.

The first models are expected to roll off the line in 2024.

Powerball Fever Sweeping North Carolina As $1 Billion Jackpot Approaching Historic Record

Charlotte Stories
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Powerball Fever Sweeping North Carolina As $1 Billion Jackpot Approaching Historic Record

Powerball fever is sweeping North Carolina now that the jackpot has passed a ridiculous $1 billion.

No one matched the white balls (5, 8, 9, 17, 41) and the red Powerball (21) during Monday’s $900 million jackpot draw, pushing the top prize to an almost historic level.

According to Powerball, if the current jackpot is won, it would rank as the 3rd highest jackpot in history, with the highest being $2.04 billion won on Nov 7th, 2022, and $1.586 Billion won on Jan 13th, 2016.

The game’s daunting odds of 1 in 292.2 million help generate the massive prizes that attract so many players. The highest-ever Powerball jackpot was a staggering $2.04 billion in November of last year.

It’s been a while since anyone won the grand prize; the last Powerball jackpot was claimed on April 19, with a prize nearing $253 million. Since then, 38 consecutive drawings have failed to produce a jackpot winner, allowing the prize to continue growing.

Powerball is available to play in 45 states, as well as in Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This report has been updated to accurately reflect that Wednesday’s draw will feature the seventh highest lottery jackpot in U.S. history, and the red Powerball number from the latest draw was 21.

Panthers Legends Peppers and Muhammad Are About To Join The Greats in The ‘Hall of Honor’

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Panthers Legends Peppers and Muhammad Are About To Join The Greats in The ‘Hall of Honor’

The Panthers have just announced plans to add to fan favorites to our version of a ‘hall of fame’.

Defensive end Julius Peppers and wide receiver Muhsin Muhammad are set to be inducted into the Carolina Panthers’ Hall of Honor during halftime of the upcoming Oct. 29 game against the Houston Texans.

Peppers, the No. 2 pick in 2002 draft, played 10 of his 17 NFL seasons with the Panthers and was selected to the league’s All-Decade Team in the 2000s and 2010s. He was a three-time All-Pro selection and ranks fourth in NFL history with 159 1/2 sacks, finishing in the top 10 in the league in sacks six times. He remains the only player in league history with at least 150 and 10 interceptions.

Muhammad spent 11 of his 14 NFL seasons with Carolina and was chosen All-Pro in 2004. He remains second in franchise history with 696 receptions, 9,255 receiving yards and 50 touchdowns behind only Steve Smith Sr. Muhammad caught an 85-yard touchdown pass in Super Bowl 38 against New England, setting a record for the longest catch in Super Bowl history.

“Muhsin Muhammad and Julius Peppers were drafted by the Panthers. Both became All-Pros here. Both came back to Carolina to finish their careers. This is another homecoming, a permanent one,” owner David Tepper said in a press release. “Not only did Muhsin and Julius set high standards on the field, they also were selected as Panthers Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year team winners. Having gotten to know both these fine men, I have no doubt that they deserve to join the distinguished group of Panthers in the Hall of Honor.”

They join the Hall of Honor’s existing members, including the likes of former team president Mike McCormack, linebacker Sam Mills, and PSL owners among others.

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