Chronic Pain: Can Medical Cannabis Help?

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We all experience aches and pain at some point in our lives. This is something that is difficult to avoid as our body is meant to feel when something is not right, and our pain receptors throughout our body are designed to send signals to our brain so we can do something about what’s causing it. It can be a little puncture, a pulled muscle, a cut on the skin, headaches brought about by too much stress, or any physical affliction, all of which can be a source of pain. And when we experience such discomfort, we seek solutions to heal our bodies and eliminate the unpleasant feeling brought by physical irregularity.

Each of us has varying reactions when it comes to dealing with pain. You may wonder why some people hurt easily while some don’t even react much when something is supposed to be painful for another. The reason behind this is that some individuals have high pain tolerance, while some feel worse even at a low pain threshold. It is suggested that pain sensitivity is inherited or has something to do with genetic factors. 

There are two main types of pain – acute and chronic. Acute pain is the most common type we all have experienced at some point. It can be mild, short-lived, or severe, but it does not last for weeks or more than six months. When the source or injury has been treated, the pain also goes away.

While some pains can be easily managed and disappear after a short period, chronic or persistent pain is the opposite. It is a long-standing, complex condition that can last for more than six months or longer even when the underlying cause has been treated. This often relates to chronic health conditions as the pain stays on. It can be on and off or continuous, even when the patient is undergoing treatment or taking medication.

This is when cannabis comes to help. Indica strains have been clinically proven to provide immense relief from chronic pain. Indica is known to relax both body and mind while allowing users to maintain physical activity without difficulty after its effects wear off. Indica is particularly effective for those suffering from conditions such as muscle spasms, insomnia, headaches, multiple sclerosis, and fibromyalgia. Indica weed strains in Canada can reduce muscular tension and improve sleep quality, preventing further uncomfortable sensations.

Most Common Health Conditions That Cause Chronic Pain

Multiple sclerosis

This condition is referred to as an autoimmune disease with an unknown cause. It affects the body by impairing the immune system and causing it to attack and damage the myelin sheath made of proteins and fatty substance that protects the nerves surrounding the brain and spinal cord. 

The symptoms of MS usually appear between the age of 20 to 40 and can be persistent or may come and go. Some of these include pain, muscle spasms, stiffness and weakness, numbness and tingling, fatigue, vision problems, depression and anxiety, and more.

When it comes to pain, MS patients can experience various kinds of discomfort relating to this condition. Because it damages the nerves, it can cause acute pain in the form of muscle spasms and can also manifest in back pain due to incorrect posture and difficulty in movement. Pain in the hips, legs, and arms can also manifest, especially when the patient is immobile. And patients can also experience chronic painful sensations on the skin.

Cancer

Even with medical advancements, cancer is one of the most complex diseases to treat. Although there are effective therapies, cancer, until today, still has no cure. This disease is characterized by the uncontrollable growth of abnormal cells, which can start and spread anywhere in the body.

The symptoms of cancer vary depending on which body part is affected. However, general indications can be determined as early signs of this disease. This includes weight changes, fatigue, lumps under the skin, redness or sores that won’t heal, unexplainable muscle or joint pain, trouble breathing, changes in bowel, and many more.

All types of cancer can be pain-causing, depending on many factors. This includes the type of cancer, bone cancer being the most painful. The cancer stage is another factor, whether it has metastasized to other organs or parts of the body. The treatments the patient is receiving can also cause pain, like in the case of chemotherapy, where one can experience chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy.

While there are multitudes of other diseases that can cause chronic pain, it is crucial that you do not ignore it when your body is telling you something. Often, medical providers conduct comprehensive and accurate assessments because managing chronic pain can be diverse as this can last for a long time, and identifying its cause can be complicated.

Can Cannabis Help Relieve Pain?

Amidst the legalization of medical cannabis in the UK in 2018, recreational use is still illegal as it is still under the Class B of drug classifications. But with the medical provisions, those who are given prescriptions by specialist doctors are legally allowed to get cannabis-based medicine from dispensaries. With more and more countries legalizing’s cannabis, you may wonder what is with weed that draws many people to it. Can this plant really help with pain and other chronic illnesses?

Cannabis or marijuana is a famous plant worldwide with a long history of use. Initially cultivated for religious ceremonies and medicinal purposes in Asia in the early times, the evolution of cannabis has indeed come a long way. In fact, in today’s world, there are many ways on how patients can use medical cannabis. Besides the classic use of flowers, they are also available in the forms of spray, oils, and topicals. 

Cannabis effects on people are said to be a personalized experience. Depending on the individual’s physical state, the purpose it is used for and how it is used bear a factor on the effects. While some swear by the benefits of using cannabis to relieve their stress and anxiety and regulate sleep, there are those who are confident in its pain-relieving properties.

Aside from increasing anecdotal evidence, the growing scientific studies on how cannabis works in our bodies have been shedding light on its influence on pain relief. In relation to this, scientific research about the impact of medical cannabis on chronic pain suggests that it has the potential to be an alternative or adjunctive treatment for patients with chronic pain. 

The presence of organic compounds in cannabis is responsible for the benefits it gives the body. Cannabinoids are abundant in this plant and are suggested to interact with the endocannabinoid systems (ECS), which are responsible for some of the body’s processes, including pain control. Cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are the two most abundant compounds aside from over 100 more cannabinoids, which, when present altogether in the body, can provide more beneficial effects.

Take Away

When we feel something is off in our body, especially when pain is present, we should not ignore it as it may result in more extensive health problems. You should also not accept pain as part of your daily life. If you want optimal wellness, it is best to seek help instead of waiting for things to get worse. At our present time, there are tons of solutions available to address pain, including alternative medicine like cannabis.

Clearly, the use of cannabis as a medical alternative to treat pain has a long way to go before it becomes fully available in the market for the general masses. However, with continuing research efforts, more and more evidence and justifications will come to light. For now, make sure that you consult a specialist about using medical cannabis instead of practicing self-treatment.

Your Complete Guide to CBD Sports Food and Drink

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The majority of us are trying to live the healthiest and most satisfying life we can, and exercise certainly plays a role in achieving this goal. Exercise and sport can vary greatly, with some individuals preferring to lift heavy weights, while others will prefer a walk in the sunshine.

No matter your preference, or your ability, CBD can make a great addition to your routine. In this small guide, we will provide you with some CBD-infused sports food and drink options and outline the various ways that CBD could enhance your fitness goals. 

CBD Sports Food

So, what is CBD sports food? Put simply, here we’ll be discussing CBD-infused food and alternatives that may complement your exercise routine. Here are a few examples of what’s on offer.

CBD Protein

Protein is a vital aspect of most fitness routines. Protein can help to build muscle and aid in recovery. There are many different options out there for CBD protein, including vegan options like pea protein and hemp protein, meaning there’s something to suit everyone’s needs.

You can purchase some CBD protein in a ready-made bar. It will detail all of the exact ingredients and CBD concentration. This is easy and convenient, as you can grab it while you’re busy or on the go. You can also buy protein powder and make it yourself using water or milk. CBD protein is a great way of upping your protein intake. Still, in addition to this, many CBD protein products also include essential nutrients like fibers, minerals, and the essential fatty acids omega 3 and 6.

CBD Gummies

While CBD gummies aren’t generally geared towards sports performance, they present a handy way of incorporating CBD into your fitness routine. There are a huge variety of CBD gummies flavors, such as lemon, strawberry, and mixed fruits. You can purchase them in a range of CBD concentrations, and they are extremely easy to consume. This makes them ideal for CBD newbies wanting to supplement the cannabinoid into their fitness routine.

CBD Sports Drink

Below are some options for CBD sports drinks to supplement your healthy lifestyle.

CBD Smoothie

CBD smoothies are a fantastic way to get essential nutrients from fruits and vegetables. They are also filling and can make for a healthy breakfast to start your day. While you can purchase CBD smoothies, you can also opt to make them yourself. This puts you in control of your CBD use. Simply choose the ingredients that you would like and blend them together. One essential component will be your chosen CBD oil – add a couple of drops to the smoothie, blend, and enjoy.

CBD-Infused Water

In case you prefer to keep things super simple, why not try CBD-infused water? You can purchase sparkling or still water for an extremely refreshing option following a sweaty workout session! Water is also vital for your body’s physical and mental well-being. For example, drinking enough water ensures that your cognitive abilities are maintained, it regulates your temperature, helps to flush out waste, aids weight loss, and provides vital energy.

CBD Coffee

Many people like to begin their day with a nice cup of coffee, so why not include CBD for an added boost? For people wanting to level up their fitness routine, consider simple black coffee infused with CBD. You can even add water-soluble CBD oil drops to your favorite coffee beans.

Additionally, black coffee comes with plenty of potential benefits. For example, it is rich in antioxidants and may have a hand in helping to reduce certain diseases. Furthermore, caffeine may enhance your fitness routine by increasing epinephrine (adrenaline) levels in the blood, which helps prepare your body for exercise. Caffeine also has the potential to help aid in weight loss if this is one of your goals. This is because caffeine can stimulate the nervous system, allowing signals to go to the fat cells, encouraging them to break down body fat.

CBD Shot

No, we aren’t referring to an alcoholic shot! There is a range of CBD shot drinks on the market with different flavors and CBD strengths. They can be tailored to specific things, such as sleep, and may include other beneficial ingredients, such as ginger, lemon, or caffeine. They are also a quick and simple way of consuming your daily amount of CBD in one quick sitting.

Other Options

CBD Dips

Although not edible, CBD dips are included on the list as they’re one of the most unique and convenient ways to consume CBD orally. Also known as a cannabis chew, CBD dips are pouches containing a filler, CBD and sometimes other ingredients. They’re designed to be held between the inside of the lip and gums, where the ingredients dissolve and absorb into the bloodstream. They’re popular as a discreet, convenient, and satisfying way to get CBD into your system and can even be used on the gym floor.

CBD Oil

CBD oil is extremely versatile, so why not personalize your favorite sports food and drink with CBD oil? Ensure CBD oil is combined with fats for absorption when cooking or baking, and if you’re adding it to drinks, make sure you choose water-soluble CBD. That means it will dissolve into water-based drinks rather than float on top.

CBD Infused Honey

CBD-infused honey is an ideal way to incorporate CBD into your routine. Combine with oatmeal at breakfast to fuel your body, or mix with wholegrain mustard and olive oil to make a dressing for a salad. Alternatively, why not sweeten your tea or coffee with honey? The possibilities are endless!

Alongside CBD’s possible anti-anxiety properties, honey has its own range of benefits. It’s a powerful antioxidant and boasts antifungal and antibacterial properties. It may also help soothe a sore throat. You can consume CBD honey with food and drink, or if you prefer, you can simply have a teaspoonful of honey on its own.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, there are lots of different choices of oral CBD. They’re a fantastic way of consuming CBD, as it won’t feel like you’re disrupting or changing your regular routine. You can also use these CBD options while you’re on the go, which is perfect for people hitting the gym or going out for a run or hike. You can take your CBD food or drink with you, and it will provide you with a sense of relaxation and balance, so you feel ready to take on the day with a calmer mindset.

Edible CBD needs to move through the digestive system before it can be absorbed into the bloodstream. And this might take a bit of time, depending on if you have just eaten, your height, weight, body fat percentage, and metabolism – sometimes up to two hours. If you’re looking for a fast-acting oral CBD solution, a Hemp dip pouch bypasses the digestive system and starts working almost immediately. The duration of CBD in the system can be long-lasting when compared to other methods, making them great for combining with your exercise routine.

Best Minimum Deposit Casinos in Australia

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Are you looking for the best minimum deposit casino for an Aussie player? Fantastic! You are in the right place to discover casinos with the least deposit amount in Australia. You will not only know about these, but we will also give you information on how they work, their selling point and what you gain by using them to play your games. For example, fastpay casino prides itself in giving random offers to live dealer game players for as low as $5. Well, that’s just a tip. Let’s start our boat from the meaning of minimum deposit casinos themselves. 

What is a Minimum Deposit Casino?

For it not to feel like running faster than we should or making assumptions, let’s take a look at the meaning of minimum deposits itself. They are the basic minimum cash or money required of a player whenever a casino game is about to be played. It is different from playing in the demo mode, where you are not required to pay anything. This is the real deal, and you must make a minimum bet to qualify to play it. 

Since casinos operate independently, the minimum deposit varies, they can charge between $1 to $5. It was common to find betting platforms operating on the high side. Still, recently, many now adopt the small bet amount mode to attract new players. With minimum bet, you can play games even with a small wager. Some even accept as low as $1; imagine making a win with just that. 

How Minimum Deposit Works in Australia

The great thing about Australian casinos is that compared to other countries, it has the right budget for players. By meeting the minimum deposit requirements, you would enjoy access to the games lobby to gamble for real money. Some of the lowest deposit requirements can be found in Aussie casinos, with providers cutting across prominent names like Playtech and Play N Go. Players can enjoy a large variety of games even with low deposits. Enjoying a low bet amount doesn’t mean you would still not find bonuses and promotions at these websites; Australian are, in fact, generous with bonuses; go through our suggestions to have a clue.

To find others that we might not list in subsequent headings, you need to do a little research online targeting Aussie casinos. However, as you scroll on, don’t forget that this content will give you several where you can find the lowest bets in Australia. 

Types Of Minimum Deposit Casinos in Australia

As mentioned earlier, casino deposit amounts vary even in Australia. It all depends on the platform and what it is willing to offer players. This offer might include the following:

  • $1 Minimum Bet 
  • $5 Minimum Bet
  • $15 Minimum Bet
  • $20 Minimum Bet
  • $25 Minimum Bet

You also need to understand that the amount you can play games with isn’t limited to those above, you can choose to play with a greater amount than this, but the same way betting platforms have minimum deposits, are maximum deposits. Our focus is on Aussie players who want to start small. Comparing land and online casinos in this regard, online do better with smaller offers than land-based. So, if you want to play with $5, for example, you should not go to a land-based casino holding that little amount of money. You will find such offers at online websites. 

Technology has also provided an easy way of banking nowadays; paying your minimum deposit amount won’t be hard. There are various methods, including e-wallets, prepaid cards, debit cards, credit cards, instant banking, Neosurf, amazon, crypto, Paypal, and so on. The available Banking methods would depend largely on the gambling company. 

Some Available Minimum Deposit Methods Casino Bonuses 

Do you know that players in Australia also enjoy bonuses despite paying such low amounts for deposits? Yes, most casino websites offer players regular and exclusive bonuses. The bonuses include but aren’t limited to;

Welcome bonuses are given to players when they sign up as a new player on an online website, free spins are usually tagged to welcome bonuses, so usually, you will see something like “$5 + 100 free spins. Few give no deposit bonuses always, since our focus is on deposit bonuses, we would skip it but note that a “no deposit bonus” is given to players for free, to play selected games without having to make any deposit. The reload bonus isn’t for new players; it is usually prepared for existing players and might be set for a weekend or a selected day of the week.

To cap it all is the VIP Program, which most betting sites set aside for top loyal customers. In this program, players earn loyalty points every time they play games on the website. The collected points can be used in exchange for better rewards.

Top Minimum Deposit Casinos in Australia 

Below are the top minimum deposit casinos in Australia:

Mega Slot

With a bet as low as $5, you will enjoy 275 free spins and a 225% deposit bonus of up to 15,000AUD. Although this hasn’t been in the market for too long, it offers exciting bonuses and promotions for players with a large selection of slot games.

It should not surprise you that Mega Slot is for the pokie lover. From the name “mega slot”, you can pick out slots from it. The platform has prepared a nice deposit and withdrawal method for players; your options include Rapid Transfer, Bank wire, Skrill, Nelletter, Mastercard, InstaDebit, EcoPayz, and so on.

King Billy

Running the same bet as $5, you will also get a 100% bet bonus of up to 2500AUD and 250 free spins. One thing you cannot take away from King Billy is that it is very generous with freebies. It also possesses a nice system of VIP Managers to reward loyal customers. 

Despite being an award-winning casino clinging to the Best New Casino in 2018 and 2019, King Billy effectively offers generous promotions and bonuses, just as players love it. What will you find at King Billy after paying the minimum deposit? Slot games, table games, a welcome package of up to $1000 plus 200 free spins, and numerous banking methods make your withdrawal and bet easy.

Hell Spin

Like King Billy, Hell Spin is a new online platform with a large selection of games from lover 40 providers. This might be the first time a casino started strong with an online rating of 8.5 over 10. It is licensed by Curacao Gaming Authority with legitimacy to operate. 

The pro of Hell Spin is that players can deposit as low as $5 and still win from the generous bonuses and promotions. Players also enjoy an interesting gambling experience with slot games and board games like Baccarat, Poker, Roulette, and Blackjack. It also has live casino Australia games for players who love the landbased casino settings. These games are from providers you probably know, names like Pragmatic Play, Netent, Amatic, Evolution, and Microgaming. 

Conclusion

Are you new to online gaming? Do you want to try it out soon? Then it is advisable to play your debut games at any Aussie offering little minimum bets. Why? for a starter, there is a higher chance of losing your first stake. It would be better if it were small. You will find minimum deposit slots all over Australia, and you can try one out anytime you choose to. You have seen some of the best minimum deposit offers in Australia, now go for it. 

New ED Treatment Clinic Opens In South Charlotte

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Revitalize Wellness Spa is now open in South Charlotte. 

Erectile dysfunction is a serious health concern that affects millions of men all over the world. In the past, treatments for ED were limited to oral medications, penile injections, exercises, and surgery. However, a new treatment option that is non-invasive and effective in clinical trials is now available.

Shockwave Therapy For Erectile Dysfunction

Shockwave therapy is an innovative ED treatment that uses sound waves to improve blood flow to the penis. The therapy is effective in 80% of men who have tried it and has few side effects. In addition, the treatment is quick, taking only 30 minutes per session, and available on an outpatient basis.

Low-Intensity Shockwave Therapy, or LiSWT, is a new, non-invasive technique that uses sound waves to improve blood flow, stimulating new blood vessel growth. The healthcare provider places small devices on the patient’s skin when undergoing this treatment. These devices send out low-intensity sound waves that travel through the tissue, treating the area of concern.

Painless, it is a safe and effective treatment option for erectile dysfunction. Patients can return to their daily activities with minimal downtime immediately following treatment.

How Many Shockwave Treatments To Get Results?

Some patients achieve results after one treatment, while others may require multiple treatments. The total number of shockwave ED treatments needed can vary based on many factors, including lifestyle and the severity of the patient’s condition. Patients should discuss their concerns with their healthcare provider to determine how many treatments are necessary to achieve desired results.

Are There Risks With Shockwave Therapy For ED?

Shockwave therapy is an innovative, safe, and effective treatment option for erectile dysfunction. With few side effects, other than the most common side effect of temporary numbness or tingling in the treated area. 

Other potential side effects include:

  • Bruising
  • Swelling
  • Pain
  • Skin Irritation
  • Infection

Before beginning treatment, patients should discuss all potential risks and side effects with their healthcare provider.

Who Would Benefit From Shockwave Therapy For ED?

Shockwave therapy is a powerful treatment option for men who have erectile dysfunction. The therapy can help improve blood flow to the penis and stimulate the growth of new blood vessels. Revitalizing the blood vessels can improve erectile function and allow men to achieve and maintain an erection.

What Are Post-Procedure Care Requirements?

There is no downtime following treatment. Patients can return to nearly all normal activities immediately after their session. However, it is important to avoid strenuous activity or sexual intercourse for 24 hours following treatment. Temporarily reducing activity helps the body heal and reduces the risk of side effects.

If you are interested in learning more about shockwave therapy for erectile dysfunction, shockwave therapy may be an effective treatment option for you.

Men in South Charlotte who are interested in learning more about this treatment option are encouraged to contact Revitalize Charlotte. At our medical wellness center, we offer shockwave therapy for erectile dysfunction. 

Our caring and experienced healthcare experts can help you determine if this treatment is best for you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

This article was brought to you by Revitalize Wellness Spa, a brand-new clinic in Charlotte, NC specializing in ED treatment and skincare treatment services.

7 Things to Look for When Buying a Used Car in Charlotte

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When it comes time to buy a used car, it’s important to be prepared. There are a lot of things to look for when making such an important purchase. In this blog post, we will discuss seven of the most important factors to consider when buying a used car in Charlotte, NC. By knowing what to look for, you can rest assured that you are getting the best deal possible!

photo source

1. Make sure to get the extended warranty

When you’re buying a car, extended warranty is always worth considering. Whether you’re buying new or used, extended warranty gives you an extra layer of protection against the unexpected. Unexpected repairs can be expensive, and an extended warranty can help you avoid financial hardship if your car needs repairs. 

When considering car warranty companies, make sure to ask about coverage limits, deductibles, and expiration dates. Also, be sure to read the fine print so you understand exactly what is covered. An extended warranty is an important consideration when buying a car, and it can give you peace of mind knowing that you’re covered in the event of an unexpected repair.

2. When buying a used car, decide your budget and needs

Anyone in the market for a used car knows that there are a lot of factors to consider. With so many options available, it can be easy to get caught up in the process and end up spending more than you intended. 

That’s why it’s important to have a clear budget in mind before you start shopping. Does your budget allow for an exotic car, or are you looking for something stable and affordable? Once you know how much you’re willing and able to spend, you can narrow your search to vehicles that fit your price range. 

It’s also important to think about your needs. Are you looking for a compact car for city driving, or do you need something with more cargo space for weekend getaways? 

3. Find a reputable car dealership in Charlotte

One of the most important things to do when looking to buy a used car is to find a reputable dealership. Here are a few tips to help you find the right place:

First, ask around. Talk to your friends, family, and co-workers to see if they have any recommendations. You can also check online reviews to get an idea of what others have experienced.

Second, do your research. Once you have a few dealerships in mind, take some time to research each one. Find out how long they’ve been in business, what kind of cars they sell, and what their prices are like. You should also read up on their customer service policies to make sure they treat their customers well.

Third, ask about financing options. If you’re going to be financing your car, make sure to ask about the interest rates and repayment terms at each dealership. This way, you can compare apples to apples and find the best deal possible.

4. Inspect the car for any damage or signs of wear and tear

Used cars can be a great option, but it’s important to inspect the car for any damage or signs of wear and tear. Check under the hood for any leaks or frayed wires. 

Take the car for a test drive to make sure everything is working properly. Pay attention to any strange noises or smells. If you’re not sure what to look for, bring along a friend or family member who knows more about cars. 

5. Test drive the car to make sure it’s comfortable and meets your needs

Before you buy a used car, it’s important to take it for a test drive to make sure it’s the right fit for you. Not only should you make sure the car is comfortable, but you should also pay attention to how it handles and how well it meets your needs. 

If the car doesn’t feel right or if it doesn’t meet your needs, then it’s probably not the right car for you. However, if the car feels comfortable and meets your needs, then it could be a great deal. So, before you buy a used car, be sure to take it for a test drive.

6. Ask the dealer questions about the history of the car and its previous owners

Used cars are a great way to get a lot of bang for your buck. Before making a purchase from used car dealer in fort myers, it’s advisable to obtain the vehicle’s history report, which provides insight into its maintenance records, accidents, and ownership. But before you hand over your hard-earned cash, there are a few things you need to do. First, you need to ask the dealer some questions about the history of the car and its previous owners. This will help you get a better sense of what you’re getting yourself into. 

Second, you need to take the car for a test drive. This will help you get a feel for how the car handles and whether or not it’s the right fit for you. Finally, you need to have a mechanic inspect the car before you finalize the purchase. This will ensure that there are no hidden surprises waiting for you down the road. 

7. Get a Carfax report to see if the car has been in any accidents

A Carfax report will tell you if the car you’re considering has been in any accidents. This is important information to have because it can affect the value of the car and the safety of driving it. Getting a Carfax report is easy – you can do it online or at the dealership. And it’s well worth the few minutes it takes to get one. 

Leo’s Italian Social Opens First Carolina Location in Piedmont Town Center

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Leo’s Italian Social has announced the opening of its Charlotte location in Piedmont Town Center. This is the restaurant’s first location in North Carolina with two additional locations in Asheville and Cary planned for a late 2022 opening.

Situated in Piedmont Town Center at 4720 Piedmont Row Drive, the 5,000 square foot restaurant offers indoor seating for up to 200 guests and al fresco dining for around 70 on a large open  air patio.

“The story of this restaurant is tied to the story of its community – refreshed, revitalized and bursting with  energy,” said Bret Adams, Founder. “From the view of pizzas cooking in the open kitchen to the large bar that  weaves throughout the dining room into the patio, guests will experience food and community in a new way  when they share in all that Leo’s offers,” said Adams.

The menu features made-from-scratch dishes including pastas, pizzas, baked  bread, and house made desserts. The lunch menu will feature a duo plate options including salads, pizzas, sandwiches, and pasta.

Additional offerings include half price wine bottles every Wednesday, $8 martinis and live music every  Thursday, and brunch on Saturdays and Sundays until 3pm. Social Hours, 7 days a week from 3pm-6pm  featuring $3 off appetizers and pizzas have been voted the best by readership of Cleveland Magazine two  years in a row. The restaurant will also offer kids eat free Mondays and family style pans to go for off-site  special events and business occasions. Reservations are recommended for everyday dining and large events  in the private dining room.

“The concept for our seasonally northern Italian-influenced flavors is very much related to family and friends.  We would like our guests to be able to dine and celebrate with their loved ones and provide them with the  best possible options for food they know and love,” explained Adams.

Essential Funding for Hundreds of NC Families Set to Expire Next Month

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A coalition of North Carolina organizations committed to the well-being of children signed on to a letter calling on Congress to reauthorize funding for the Maternal, Infant, Early Childhood Home Visiting Program (MIECHV) before it expires on September 30th. Expiration of funding would leave thousands of American families without reliable access to this critical program. No bill has been introduced in Congress to prevent a lapse in funding.
The MIECHV program sends trained professionals, such as nurses, social workers, and early childhood educators, to the homes of high-risk families during pregnancy and early childhood to help with everything from breastfeeding and developmental milestones, to accessing job training or childcare services. MIECHV is proven to reduce preterm births and pediatric emergency room visits, increase kindergarten readiness for children, and improve economic stability and self-sufficiency for mothers. It has also reduced abuse and neglect – you can see the data here.
The most recent numbers show 1,009 participants are enrolled in home visiting in North Carolina, touching over 500 distinct households, with a total of 7,220 home visits made by experts to homes throughout the state – from the biggest cities to the most rural communities.
Despite decades of research showing invaluable outcomes, the future of home visiting for these families is in doubt because Congress has not yet acted. The following local organizations signed on to the letter urging Congress to take action before it’s too late:
Blue Ridge Healthy Families
Catawba Valley Healthy Families
Child Care Services Association
Family Resource Center South Atlantic
Goldsboro Pediatrics
Prevent Child Abuse North Carolina
Think Babies NC Alliance

Waxhaw Native Has Just Been Appointed To Navy’s Prestigious TOPGUN Program

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Waxhaw native Jackson Mingledorff has just been appointed to serve as an air traffic controller at the Navy’s most prestigious aviator program ‘TOPGUN’, located in Nevada’s Naval Air Station (NAS) Fallon.

“I joined the Navy because it was a new opportunity for me,” said Mingledorff. “I was also interested in the educational benefits, the opportunity to travel and I was excited to have a job I could do for years in the future.”

The TOPGUN program was first introduced 52 years ago with the mission of reducing casualties of naval aviators sustained during the Vietnam War. Within a year, this goal was reached with the United States having one casualty for every 12 enemy deaths. Since then, TOPGUN continues to train the finest naval aviators and has inspired one blockbuster movie released in May 1986, with a sequel planned for release in May of 2022.

“I am extremely excited about the impact this movie will have,” said Vice Adm. Kenneth Whitesell, Commander Naval Air Forces. “Much like the trend that followed the original film, I am confident that Top Gun: Maverick will have a tremendous impact on our Navy recruiting efforts which will greatly increase the numbers of brave and talented Sailors among our ranks.”

According to Navy officials, TOPGUN is a prestigious program only open to the top one percent of naval aviators. Aviators who attend the course are trained in a variety of areas including air combat, jet maneuverability, enemy tactics and more.

Largest Floating Solar Power Plant in the Southeast Installed at Fort Bragg

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The Southeast’s largest floating solar plant will be producing power soon at the U.S. Army’s Fort Bragg in North Carolina after a major utility energy service contract with Duke Energy and its prime contractor Ameresco.

The 1.1-megawatt solar facility is part of a $36 million contract that focused on energy resilience and security at Fort Bragg, including infrastructure modernization, lighting and water upgrades, heating, ventilation and air-conditioning, and boiler system improvements.

“Duke Energy’s work with Fort Bragg will lead to better energy efficiency and cost savings at the base,” said Brian Savoy, Duke Energy’s chief strategy and commercial officer. “We’re excited to help put Fort Bragg at the forefront of renewable energy innovation through this unique floating solar facility.”

The floating solar system was built on the Big Muddy Lake located at Camp Mackall. Fort Bragg will own and operate the solar system.

“We are grateful for our relationship with Duke Energy and Ameresco,” said Col. Scott Pence, garrison commander for Fort Bragg. “With this system, the largest floating solar array in the Southeast, we will be able to provide energy resiliency to Fort Bragg operations through sustainable resources. With this partnership, Fort Bragg not only has renewable electricity, but energy security that will be critical with continuing the installation’s mission during a power outage.”

“The opportunity to implement this innovative use of clean energy technology for a military base as notable as Fort Bragg was one that our Federal Solutions team was thrilled to lead on,” said Nicole Bulgarino, Ameresco executive vice president and general manager of Federal Solutions. “The completed floating solar system – still an underutilized technology in the U.S. – will assure the Army’s mission with clean energy. We look forward to continuing our relationship with Duke Energy and Fort Bragg, working to identify additional state-of-the-art opportunities to reduce the installation’s energy consumption and strengthen its resilience.”

The floating solar installation is being paired with a 2-MW battery energy storage system. The system will supply power to Fort Bragg from the local grid and provide power during electric service outages.

“This project fulfills the commitment made in our Army Climate Strategy to increase resilience while delivering clean energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions,” said the Honorable Rachel Jacobson, assistant secretary of the Army for installations, energy and environment. “When we collaborate with local utilities and industry to promote energy resilience while powering the local grid, it is a winning solution across the board.”

Floating solar is expected to grow quickly over the next decade. Currently, only 2% of new solar installations are on water. But the nation has more than 24,000 human-made bodies of water that could be useful for floating solar development.

North Carolina and Duke Energy are leaders in solar energy. The state is fourth in the nation for overall solar power capacity. Duke Energy owns and operates more than 40 solar facilities in North Carolina – one of which is a 13-MW facility at the Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in Onslow County.

North Carolina Ranked America’s #1 State for Business In 2022

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The State of North Carolina has just been ranked as America’s #1 state for business in 2022.

According to CNBC’s annual state competitiveness ranking, the Tar Heel state edged out the #2 state of Washington with superior Infrastructure, Cost of Doing Business, Economy, and Business Friendliness scores. Since the annual ranking first started in 2007, we’ve usually finished in the top 10, but this is the first year we came out on top.

“North Carolina is proud of its economic success that continues to garner national recognition like being CNBC’s Best State for Business,” said NC Commerce Secretary Machelle Baker Sanders. “Last year, we announced more than 24,000 new jobs and investments exceeding $10.1 billion from future-focused companies in fields like biotechnology, computers, and electric vehicles. There are many factors for our success, including our central East Coast location, premier quality of life and low cost of business, but our greatest asset is our diverse and highly-skilled workforce that is supported by our top-rated education system. We will continue to focus on creative partnerships for talent development as we evolve to meet the demands of existing, new, and future employers like Apple, Toyota, and FUJIFILM that call North Carolina home.” 

To determine the ranking of the states, CNBC analyzed 88 metrics across 10 different categories of competitiveness. Each category was then weighted based on how frequently states use them as a selling point in economic development marketing materials (you can read the full methodology here).

While North Carolina came out on top, South Carolina was ranked among the bottom half, coming in at #36 overall.

AMERICA’S TOP STATES FOR BUSINESS 2022

OVERALL RANK STATE WORKFORCE INFRA-STRUCTURE COST OF DOING BUSINESS ECONOMY LIFE, HEALTH & INCLUSION TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION BUSINESS FRIENDLINESS EDUCATION ACCESS TO CAPITAL COST OF LIVING
1 North Carolina 12 17 26 1 28 5 22 14 2 22
2 Washington 4 29 33 3 6 2 31 17 20 38
3 Virginia 11 9 25 20 13 17 6 2 6 30
4 Colorado 1 16 36 11 12 9 16 11 22 34
5 Texas 2 14 12 8 49 4 34 21 3 14
6 Tennessee 15 8 8 2 42 28 23 11 22 5
7 Nebraska 32 22 16 13 7 24 12 24 32 19
8 Utah 8 32 17 6 29 26 10 41 12 25
9 Minnesota 21 4 41 16 5 6 32 15 13 26
10 Georgia 3 11 38 7 39 12 32 10 13 4
11 Florida 6 13 30 4 39 16 39 19 22 27
12 Iowa 20 37 19 17 10 18 28 24 29 7
13 North Dakota 31 21 21 37 4 35 1 26 34 24
14 Indiana 48 1 2 10 43 23 18 35 13 9
15 Ohio 41 2 4 27 29 11 43 22 3 12
16 Michigan 26 19 9 21 29 15 20 27 11 12
17 Pennsylvania 28 12 22 45 22 7 26 5 9 32
18 Oregon 9 33 34 15 8 13 46 32 26 46
19 Illinois 26 3 31 44 23 8 40 6 8 20
20 Idaho 40 42 15 5 20 34 3 48 34 31
21 Kansas 35 6 6 43 29 38 17 20 19 2
22 South Dakota 43 36 11 12 27 36 8 39 10 29
23 Wisconsin 37 15 13 30 35 19 38 15 32 23
24 Massachusetts 24 31 49 26 13 10 21 1 6 47
25 Missouri 49 10 1 17 46 19 36 27 29 6
26 Kentucky 17 18 6 34 36 22 42 39 38 17
27 Maryland 10 22 44 31 18 14 29 18 13 44
28 Delaware 5 20 37 22 24 32 26 42 13 36
29 California 16 25 48 17 26 1 48 11 1 48
30 Montana 33 45 27 9 24 46 5 33 38 28
31 Vermont 50 22 39 33 1 37 14 8 45 41
32 Wyoming 18 35 23 40 20 40 2 29 45 20
33 Alabama 13 38 24 27 38 21 25 34 34 3
34 Arizona 7 6 35 22 50 29 4 42 41 33
35 New Hampshire 22 47 32 29 15 39 8 6 48 37
36 New York 46 28 42 36 19 2 44 4 5 49
36 South Carolina 29 27 28 13 47 31 23 29 41 18
38 Oklahoma 35 26 2 34 48 30 14 47 22 14
39 Connecticut 14 39 45 47 17 25 11 8 26 43
39 Nevada 29 5 20 25 41 47 7 50 26 35
41 Arkansas 38 30 13 24 37 40 29 37 20 10
42 New Jersey 23 34 43 50 8 27 47 3 13 40
43 Maine 43 49 40 32 2 44 19 23 47 39
44 West Virginia 43 42 10 39 34 49 49 44 38 8
45 Rhode Island 39 44 47 41 16 33 36 29 29 42
46 Hawaii 19 39 50 48 3 40 35 38 49 50
46 New Mexico 25 39 29 42 44 43 44 45 41 11
48 Louisiana 42 48 5 45 45 45 41 35 37 16
49 Alaska 34 50 46 38 11 50 12 49 49 45
50 Mississippi 47 46 17 49 33 48 50