Red Flag Fire Warning Issued For The Charlotte Region Amid High Winds and Dry Conditions

Charlotte Stories
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Red Flag Fire Warning Issued For The Charlotte Region Amid High Winds and Dry Conditions

A new fire warning has been issued for the Charlotte region today as dry conditions and gusty winds create dangerous wildfire potential across the area.

Forecasters expect an unusually warm mid-November Sunday, with temperatures climbing into the mid-70s and clouds gradually decreasing. However, winds will gust near 30 mph late Sunday morning and early afternoon, pushing fire danger sharply higher across the region.

The combination of low humidity, dry vegetation, and strong winds has prompted officials to warn residents to avoid any outdoor burning. The National Weather Service issued a special weather statement early Wednesday highlighting the elevated fire risk and urging caution for the remainder of the day.

Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged, and authorities say even small fires can spread quickly under current conditions.

A cold front arriving Sunday night will bring slightly cooler and drier air to start the work week.

Forecasters are also warning residents to avoid fires Monday and Tuesday until the dry conditions shift.

North Carolina’s Whitewater Falls Voted As One of America’s Favorite Landmarks

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North Carolina’s Whitewater Falls Voted As One of America’s Favorite Landmarks

From the mystical Appalachian Trail which runs through the east, to the natural phenomenon that is Mississippi’s Petrified Forest, and the esteemed Grand Canyon, the U.S. has volumes to offer when it comes to exploring natural sites and landmarks.

Aqua Expeditions polled 3,113 Americans on which local natural landmarks they would most like to visit. It was revealed that the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which lies on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, is the natural landmark most people would like to tick off their bucket list. Unsurprisingly, this destination is the most visited national park in America, having attracted more than 14.1 million visitors last year. It’s no wonder so many others aspire to join the visitor’s book and witness the sprawling natural landscape, along with its year-round wildflower blooms, abundant rivers, waterfalls and forests.

In 2nd place, Niagara Falls emerged as one of the most popular natural landmarks, which is located on the Niagara River. At the Observation Tower at Prospect Point in the Niagara Falls State Park, visitors can behold a natural spectacle: a view of all three waterfalls.

Located in Belleview, Missouri, Elephant Rocks State Park is a geologic reserve and recreation area, and it emerged in 3rd place. It is named for a row of large granite boulders, resembling a train of elephants.

In 33rd position came North Carolina’s Whitewater Falls. The Whitewater Falls are the highest waterfalls east of the Rockies. Given their inaccessibility, there are few visitors and the area has remained underdeveloped for years. Wildflowers, ferns, mosses, and fungi are abundant for hikers to enjoy.

 

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North Carolina’s other natural landmarks voted in the 250 most popular include:

#33 Whitewater Falls.
#47 Looking Glass Falls.
#71 Mount Mitchell.
#117 Jockey’s Ridge.
#167 Sliding Rock.

Shutdown Ends, Full SNAP Benefits to Reach 600,000 North Carolina Households Today

Charlotte Stories
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Shutdown Ends, Full SNAP Benefits to Reach 600,000 North Carolina Households Today

North Carolina families will receive their full November SNAP benefits by Friday morning, following the federal government’s official reopening late Wednesday.

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services confirmed that roughly 600,000 households will see their complete benefit amounts loaded onto EBT cards after the USDA instructed states to resume full payments.

“I am grateful to NCDHHS for working around the clock to ensure North Carolinians get their full November benefits as quickly as possible,” said Governor Josh Stein in a press release. “People will be able to go to the grocery store this weekend to purchase the food they need to keep their loved ones healthy and strong.”

Some residents may receive their November funds earlier than usual, depending on their normal distribution schedule. December benefits will return to the standard cycle.

NCDHHS is updating beneficiaries through its website and the SNAP portal while urging residents to check their balances on ebtEDGE.com, or by calling 1-888-622-7328.

Anyone facing urgent food needs can call 2-1-1 or visit the NCDHHS food access page to find local assistance, including food pantry locations.

Three NC Cities Rank Among The Top 10 Best Dog Lover Cities in America

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Three NC Cities Rank Among The Top 10 Best Dog Lover Cities in America

North Carolina just earned major bragging rights after a new national study ranked three of its cities among the top 10 dog-friendly cities in America.

According to LawnStarter’s 2025 Best Cities for Dog Lovers report — which analyzed 500 cities across 37 factors — Asheville ranked #2, Wilmington ranked #6, and Raleigh ranked #9, placing the state firmly among the nation’s leaders for canine quality of life.

The report examined everything from yard size and dog-friendly rentals to vet access, affordability, parks, walkability, and community support. Researchers also highlighted the importance of local design, noting that cities investing in green space, pet-friendly housing, and outdoor dining tend to score far higher than cities offering limited amenities.

Asheville took the #2 spot thanks to its strong network of veterinarians, active dog-owner communities, and plentiful outdoor access. The Mountain City continues to attract pet owners seeking walkable streets, scenic trails, and dog-friendly breweries that welcome pups as part of the family.

Wilmington, ranked #6, impressed researchers with its coastal parks, accessible dog sitters, and year-round outdoor lifestyle. The Port City’s mix of beaches, greenways, and pet-friendly restaurants helped secure its top-tier position.

Raleigh, at #9, earned praise for its reliable emergency vet access, thriving Meetup groups, and widespread pet-friendly dining options. Its expanding trail network and strong adoption community also pushed it into the national top 10.

While North Carolina excelled, the study also highlighted other national standouts. Frederick, Maryland claimed the #1 position, while 28 Southern cities overall landed in the top 50. Larger metros such as New York (#4) and Charlotte (#31) were recognized for offering strong amenities, trading yard space for walkability and award-winning parks.

Still, for dog lovers living in the Carolinas, the news is overwhelmingly positive. With three cities cracking the top 10 and Charlotte placing firmly inside the top third, North Carolina continues to cement its reputation as one of America’s most pet-friendly states — offering pups and owners alike an easy place to call home.

2025’s Best Cities for Dog Lovers

Rank City State Score Care Rank Community Rank Business Rank Housing Rank Afford Rank
1 Frederick MD 49.92 11 2 20 197 59
2 Asheville NC 48.42 13 73 1 55 258
3 Scottsdale AZ 46.49 22 19 13 11 152
4 New York NY 45.64 27 1 70 317 137
5 Santa Fe NM 44.35 28 95 3 6 430
6 Wilmington NC 43.18 6 233 19 88 130
7 Orlando FL 43.17 3 196 14 173 352
8 Santa Monica CA 42.51 98 3 33 148 48
9 Raleigh NC 42.01 34 72 61 24 87
10 Bend OR 41.85 47 22 8 125 279
11 Knoxville TN 41.51 1 289 35 93 462
12 Carmel IN 41.07 166 269 7 3 15
13 Tucson AZ 41.02 5 49 64 167 491
14 Atlanta GA 40.72 25 257 26 31 81
15 Austin TX 40.71 52 33 38 66 138
16 Miami FL 40.67 9 119 36 142 443
17 West Palm Beach FL 40.57 2 288 32 207 408
18 Charleston SC 40.49 17 265 17 75 156
19 Flagstaff AZ 40.47 49 63 11 62 422
20 Santa Barbara CA 40.29 67 18 16 266 86
21 Fort Collins CO 40.22 12 74 53 296 223
22 San Diego CA 40.07 53 24 54 117 146
23 Roswell GA 39.99 37 339 113 7 13
24 Edmond OK 39.91 24 266 224 25 41
25 Allen TX 39.82 205 81 215 2 36
26 Houston TX 39.71 40 11 84 260 153
27 Conroe TX 39.62 18 114 274 70 180
28 Richmond VA 39.56 20 65 88 159 204
29 Redmond WA 39.46 203 30 169 23 8
30 Los Angeles CA 39.44 58 12 37 240 249
31 Charlotte NC 39.36 57 102 98 37 109
32 Athens GA 39.32 21 331 67 9 306
33 Tyler TX 39.15 65 161 95 12 215
34 Flower Mound TX 39.12 183 113 328 5 5
35 Boca Raton FL 39.07 16 395 30 76 94
36 Georgetown TX 39.01 110 88 128 16 120
37 Tampa FL 38.99 35 64 24 233 221
38 Colorado Springs CO 38.86 31 36 109 194 245
39 Las Vegas NV 38.81 7 56 96 459 318
40 Franklin TN 38.71 69 349 12 30 89
41 Phoenix AZ 38.52 68 7 102 188 413
42 Seattle WA 38.40 91 9 45 356 53
43 College Station TX 38.36 14 313 51 131 242
44 Cary NC 38.07 200 169 83 19 14
45 Tacoma WA 38.04 36 25 298 247 222
46 Plano TX 38.00 139 124 228 15 60
47 Boulder CO 38.00 126 10 42 274 145
48 Alexandria VA 37.82 107 17 71 340 16
49 Columbia SC 37.64 8 407 23 246 334
50 Portland OR 37.62 118 5 59 325 342
51 Round Rock TX 37.57 62 203 163 46 73
52 Newport Beach CA 37.45 330 41 21 95 11
53 Kirkland WA 37.30 93 68 183 208 12
54 Gastonia NC 37.26 51 149 289 36 275
55 New Braunfels TX 37.20 132 307 49 4 200
56 Miami Beach FL 37.15 64 312 10 141 216
57 Frisco TX 37.13 173 240 237 10 21
58 Sacramento CA 37.03 123 16 165 172 252
59 Bellingham WA 36.99 30 52 76 346 344
60 Chicago IL 36.97 87 6 149 341 330
61 Fort Lauderdale FL 36.87 23 405 18 121 224
62 McKinney TX 36.83 209 176 222 14 54
63 Bellevue WA 36.78 196 62 225 111 10
64 San Antonio TX 36.77 54 46 204 169 386
65 Simi Valley CA 36.75 147 47 230 110 84
66 Norman OK 36.67 117 98 250 34 201
67 Fayetteville AR 36.59 45 325 68 50 192
68 Pasadena CA 36.59 191 59 80 108 106
69 Baton Rouge LA 36.48 10 382 105 198 363
70 Bloomington IN 36.46 48 263 6 276 366
71 Fairfield CA 36.43 208 20 375 114 93
72 Sugar Land TX 36.40 77 104 198 245 27
73 San Francisco CA 36.39 263 4 119 406 32
74 Roseville CA 36.38 261 13 201 122 134
75 Savannah GA 36.32 33 440 5 134 382
76 Vancouver WA 36.23 32 133 174 221 297
77 Fort Myers FL 36.22 4 418 15 455 407
78 Carlsbad CA 36.19 220 142 50 85 26
79 Dallas TX 36.12 115 110 92 63 294
80 Mansfield TX 36.07 236 106 233 18 110
81 St. Louis MO 35.95 55 103 58 249 332
82 Chattanooga TN 35.95 38 311 29 115 376
83 Costa Mesa CA 35.95 179 60 73 186 98
84 Escondido CA 35.90 272 40 327 27 199
85 Naperville IL 35.77 379 28 164 44 39
85 Kissimmee FL 35.77 19 343 2 326 492
87 Fishers IN 35.75 95 376 218 33 28
88 Concord NC 35.65 89 303 154 53 77
89 Greensboro NC 35.63 44 197 195 153 257
90 Pittsburgh PA 35.61 72 27 72 403 304
91 Denver CO 35.56 92 44 81 334 189
92 Virginia Beach VA 35.37 151 69 138 248 67
93 Tulsa OK 35.29 41 254 238 137 265
94 Auburn AL 35.28 61 363 257 41 133
95 Cedar Park TX 35.21 170 217 192 47 71
96 Gainesville FL 35.17 15 399 66 120 477
97 Ann Arbor MI 34.95 100 35 77 399 185
98 Stamford CT 34.93 180 193 223 80 47
99 Durham NC 34.91 158 234 190 32 155
100 Pleasanton CA 34.82 322 34 178 214 4
101 Lexington KY 34.71 80 286 28 219 176
102 Murfreesboro TN 34.68 76 453 199 17 219
103 Mount Pleasant SC 34.67 56 481 27 39 88
104 Dayton OH 34.66 26 116 89 332 483
105 Folsom CA 34.54 337 127 134 54 25
106 Temecula CA 34.51 257 111 34 210 70
107 Salt Lake City UT 34.47 140 267 9 358 114
108 Indianapolis IN 34.43 75 216 91 162 337
109 Pearland TX 34.35 171 308 40 156 29
110 Everett WA 34.31 112 53 272 282 273
111 Castle Rock CO 34.22 224 218 143 68 76
112 Mission Viejo CA 34.16 125 89 175 375 45
113 Clearwater FL 34.12 43 247 25 351 391
114 Nashville TN 34.08 103 298 46 127 278
115 Oceanside CA 34.03 99 230 101 223 167
116 Schaumburg IL 33.97 252 138 179 48 235
117 Huntington Beach CA 33.96 237 96 133 215 69
118 Oklahoma City OK 33.90 163 200 189 79 225
119 Arlington TX 33.82 211 162 326 52 238
120 League City TX 33.79 251 129 373 136 42
121 Suffolk VA 33.77 441 140 406 8 49
122 Denton TX 33.72 168 256 153 83 162
123 Cincinnati OH 33.71 94 86 79 328 396
124 Albuquerque NM 33.62 88 260 142 107 397
125 Longview TX 33.61 70 424 347 26 343
126 Santa Rosa CA 33.59 86 105 226 366 164
126 Columbia MO 33.59 39 255 137 364 211
128 Fayetteville NC 33.53 119 135 208 199 321
129 Little Rock AR 33.48 105 370 69 135 129
130 Anaheim CA 33.48 331 26 177 206 174
131 Sandy Springs GA 33.47 175 483 320 1 18
132 Wichita Falls TX 33.46 193 158 356 69 296
133 Chandler AZ 33.43 161 225 180 118 187
134 Fort Worth TX 33.43 181 170 275 109 214
135 Mesa AZ 33.41 149 83 271 171 414
136 Spokane WA 33.40 78 131 100 338 364
137 Grand Rapids MI 33.36 71 179 85 290 419
138 Birmingham AL 33.33 42 362 57 155 461
139 Louisville KY 33.30 83 231 107 217 346
140 Peoria AZ 33.28 232 84 318 124 303
141 Gilbert AZ 33.28 176 249 244 91 165
141 Melbourne FL 33.28 50 338 22 281 435
143 Tallahassee FL 33.22 66 299 47 222 432
144 Tustin CA 33.19 269 160 213 138 65
145 Lee’s Summit MO 33.14 250 341 125 61 31
146 Lafayette LA 33.14 59 358 120 250 182
147 Fort Smith AR 33.12 142 340 269 72 126
148 Glendale AZ 33.07 82 202 260 130 455
149 Vista CA 33.06 253 360 217 21 171
150 Tempe AZ 33.01 124 172 93 183 441
151 Broomfield CO 33.00 335 125 226 77 111
152 Jonesboro AR 32.94 213 369 338 13 285
153 Rochester Hills MI 32.93 281 272 301 28 96
154 San Marcos CA 32.91 262 183 203 126 105
155 Lakeland FL 32.87 46 326 86 204 460
156 Murrieta CA 32.86 130 227 325 272 62
157 Johns Creek GA 32.82 259 394 359 22 2
158 Orange CA 32.78 311 126 216 176 38
159 Tracy CA 32.74 386 145 362 43 57
159 Norwalk CT 32.74 216 94 254 318 83
161 Philadelphia PA 32.72 146 23 170 441 373
162 Danbury CT 32.63 104 237 343 224 208
163 Minneapolis MN 32.63 325 21 118 335 172
164 Lynchburg VA 32.51 210 168 112 187 295
165 Thousand Oaks CA 32.50 341 92 171 146 58
166 Santa Clarita CA 32.44 307 224 173 90 80
167 Irvine CA 32.40 353 112 317 154 44
168 Omaha NE 32.39 111 167 191 342 202
169 Napa CA 32.36 377 76 56 262 85
170 Springfield MO 32.32 29 466 74 174 425
171 Albany NY 32.32 138 43 106 382 456
172 Syracuse NY 32.28 227 14 172 347 471
173 Fullerton CA 32.27 388 48 265 225 66
174 Greenville NC 32.27 63 422 234 82 339
175 Richardson TX 32.22 266 365 194 35 132
176 Redwood City CA 32.21 274 99 184 369 19
177 Appleton WI 32.21 190 261 41 295 181
178 Goodyear AZ 32.20 284 80 286 178 270
179 Kent WA 32.13 334 55 394 209 149
180 Chico CA 32.12 113 159 168 302 379
181 Lincoln NE 32.12 188 132 202 289 231
182 Worcester MA 32.10 366 15 129 275 405
183 Reno NV 32.07 84 239 229 319 263
184 Livermore CA 32.03 360 42 235 363 23
185 El Cajon CA 32.02 222 268 231 59 358
186 Chula Vista CA 31.95 310 206 436 64 125
187 Roanoke VA 31.83 128 150 62 385 372
188 Hillsboro OR 31.74 230 212 127 213 218
189 Arvada CO 31.72 326 82 232 251 135
190 Amarillo TX 31.72 85 387 247 166 264
191 Allentown PA 31.69 155 45 241 361 464
192 Warwick RI 31.63 201 165 288 344 104
193 Temple TX 31.63 198 242 323 132 348
194 Rochester NY 31.55 79 153 148 339 474
195 Madison WI 31.55 60 333 104 384 302
196 Burbank CA 31.54 328 136 122 242 123
197 Winston-Salem NC 31.53 212 310 207 103 290
198 Corona CA 31.52 305 39 371 353 136
199 Renton WA 31.43 268 182 341 190 154
200 Buffalo NY 31.41 156 29 209 408 476
201 Irving TX 31.40 291 221 376 56 324
202 Mobile AL 31.36 102 425 116 139 333
203 Lake Charles LA 31.30 97 456 236 74 280
204 Jacksonville FL 31.29 165 238 214 165 434
205 Buckeye AZ 31.25 320 66 471 182 311
206 Carrollton TX 31.24 214 415 401 73 128
207 New Rochelle NY 31.22 450 31 416 256 51
208 Lewisville TX 31.22 280 342 221 60 159
209 Rock Hill SC 31.20 122 474 162 29 341
210 Iowa City IA 31.19 116 252 186 373 203
211 Aurora IL 31.19 272 173 424 147 261
212 Vacaville CA 31.18 408 50 311 236 122
213 San Angelo TX 31.16 131 245 330 287 288
214 Long Beach CA 31.15 238 79 211 379 240
215 Port St. Lucie FL 31.14 144 280 282 200 378
216 Mission TX 31.14 265 188 461 106 239
217 San Jose CA 31.10 225 141 212 432 55
218 Riverside CA 31.06 240 134 321 303 196
219 Torrance CA 31.04 205 139 273 435 72
220 Arlington Heights IL 31.00 349 317 299 67 127
221 Eugene OR 30.99 143 117 97 389 451
222 Kansas City MO 30.98 108 417 185 185 237
223 South Fulton GA 30.97 137 500 4 57 212
224 High Point NC 30.95 219 175 343 179 418
225 Bryan TX 30.87 233 378 90 87 325
226 Overland Park KS 30.82 295 383 152 89 74
227 Loveland CO 30.79 202 251 31 371 322
228 Broken Arrow OK 30.78 229 410 309 96 150
229 Midland TX 30.78 255 392 303 102 79
230 Corpus Christi TX 30.76 187 195 210 359 232
231 Lawton OK 30.73 184 398 411 45 368
232 Missoula MT 30.73 101 420 140 234 268
233 Huntsville AL 30.72 278 400 160 84 108
234 Providence RI 30.68 243 146 151 372 188
235 Beaverton OR 30.65 162 305 135 269 322
236 Alameda CA 30.64 400 71 159 402 22
237 Ventura CA 30.61 182 250 78 426 147
238 Waco TX 30.60 178 356 147 181 356
239 Fremont CA 30.56 401 101 388 299 20
239 South Bend IN 30.56 74 236 248 381 452
241 New Orleans LA 30.54 135 348 39 331 361
242 Rancho Cordova CA 30.53 300 171 329 201 227
243 Glendale CA 30.53 352 120 324 194 241
244 Centennial CO 30.52 399 235 267 71 64
245 Lakewood CO 30.46 114 327 256 264 309
246 Menifee CA 30.44 409 37 426 314 141
247 Springfield IL 30.41 244 186 150 263 387
248 Surprise AZ 30.41 177 336 382 140 374
249 Evanston IL 30.39 258 373 206 149 121
250 Las Cruces NM 30.38 81 439 131 168 446
251 Boise City ID 30.38 294 189 121 279 210
252 Stockton CA 30.29 373 164 339 113 284
253 Boston MA 30.29 276 58 196 485 118
253 Shreveport LA 30.29 133 447 285 98 326
255 Des Moines IA 30.26 145 185 287 383 360
256 Elk Grove CA 30.19 421 121 384 151 82
257 Redding CA 30.18 197 277 145 291 349
258 St. Petersburg FL 30.15 172 294 63 348 357
259 Lubbock TX 30.12 134 432 176 193 247
259 Reading PA 30.12 249 8 279 419 498
261 Springdale AR 30.11 218 445 388 38 179
262 Kennewick WA 30.09 207 409 239 129 305
263 Clarksville TN 30.09 96 459 220 144 362
264 Modesto CA 30.04 316 184 363 202 234
265 San Ramon CA 30.03 390 155 369 273 37
266 Coral Springs FL 30.02 226 381 263 100 226
267 San Mateo CA 30.00 351 77 316 440 46
268 Greeley CO 30.00 150 198 334 377 367
269 Garland TX 29.99 247 388 402 105 209
270 Baltimore MD 29.98 217 107 193 465 250
271 Concord CA 29.90 271 122 340 407 160
272 Nashua NH 29.89 239 192 354 417 92
273 Rancho Cucamonga CA 29.85 376 118 261 333 98
274 Scranton PA 29.82 309 93 357 230 447
275 Cedar Rapids IA 29.81 159 461 307 145 205
276 Elgin IL 29.80 369 271 407 49 375
277 Mountain View CA 29.79 469 143 99 313 9
278 Spokane Valley WA 29.77 223 322 144 177 429
279 Federal Way WA 29.75 343 115 400 255 313
280 Hoover AL 29.75 371 469 278 20 33
281 Bethlehem PA 29.73 289 246 103 278 283
282 Killeen TX 29.68 264 147 391 322 317
283 Salem OR 29.67 204 205 205 316 438
284 Trenton NJ 29.62 303 38 475 365 427
285 Manteca CA 29.61 412 109 418 243 158
286 Macon GA 29.53 241 431 258 40 384
287 Apple Valley CA 29.51 370 229 439 81 371
288 Baytown TX 29.50 270 297 331 133 416
289 Upland CA 29.49 391 85 276 352 151
290 Citrus Heights CA 29.44 347 148 397 180 402
291 Columbus OH 29.42 260 174 281 301 406
292 Beaumont TX 29.42 153 384 305 232 350
293 Cranston RI 29.38 306 351 240 218 97
294 Abilene TX 29.38 136 434 249 160 394
295 North Charleston SC 29.29 235 443 155 112 291
296 Jersey City NJ 29.24 363 90 383 448 50
297 Troy MI 29.23 304 355 360 143 102
298 Fort Wayne IN 29.19 129 408 161 308 336
299 Davie FL 29.17 141 485 270 58 307
300 Lake Forest CA 29.17 361 100 187 400 103
301 Bloomington IL 29.16 184 435 124 268 282
302 O’Fallon MO 29.11 199 430 293 205 289
303 Green Bay WI 29.08 167 364 87 360 338
304 Olathe KS 29.07 443 276 294 164 56
305 Hesperia CA 29.07 398 214 431 78 403
306 Boynton Beach FL 29.06 73 486 65 189 439
307 Pasadena TX 29.06 169 372 410 309 244
308 Largo FL 29.06 120 330 48 421 459
309 Yakima WA 28.97 231 283 300 261 424
310 Oxnard CA 28.95 383 91 332 370 194
311 St. Paul MN 28.94 381 130 315 329 198
312 Chino Hills CA 28.91 404 123 252 321 61
313 Deltona FL 28.84 254 248 483 241 417
314 Longmont CO 28.82 290 279 126 307 319
315 Grand Prairie TX 28.77 372 375 433 51 246
316 Akron OH 28.77 221 177 312 357 457
317 Erie PA 28.75 301 32 111 450 484
318 Lansing MI 28.73 90 274 253 396 486
319 Daytona Beach FL 28.73 121 337 60 390 480
320 McAllen TX 28.70 387 278 349 184 173
321 Duluth MN 28.67 437 292 55 175 268
322 Clifton NJ 28.67 296 57 441 489 95
323 Evansville IN 28.66 109 467 75 244 444
324 Auburn WA 28.63 297 332 454 191 251
325 El Paso TX 28.62 299 207 351 286 359
326 Peoria IL 28.62 267 285 156 294 400
327 Cape Coral FL 28.62 127 423 44 391 412
328 Chesapeake VA 28.62 357 243 305 354 78
329 Santa Maria CA 28.61 342 51 365 460 331
330 Berkeley CA 28.55 424 97 157 447 91
331 Yuma AZ 28.55 164 211 139 458 449
332 Sunnyvale CA 28.55 418 226 266 397 6
333 Oakland CA 28.41 380 150 348 386 119
334 Cambridge MA 28.40 434 178 132 416 40
335 Aurora CO 28.38 368 210 380 265 271
336 Bolingbrook IL 28.34 417 204 304 211 281
337 Avondale AZ 28.33 293 273 393 196 445
338 Yonkers NY 28.31 312 54 453 484 230
339 Warner Robins GA 28.28 160 499 346 65 178
340 Lawrence KS 28.17 292 345 94 306 301
341 Lancaster CA 28.15 354 128 438 323 398
342 Homestead FL 28.11 106 450 352 170 479
343 Palm Coast FL 28.05 308 328 108 277 370
344 Plymouth MN 28.02 491 190 364 128 17
345 Missouri City TX 27.99 242 347 366 337 161
346 Woodbury MN 27.96 481 220 297 116 68
347 Perris CA 27.94 414 353 489 94 253
348 Mesquite TX 27.94 346 344 434 152 315
349 Antioch CA 27.93 406 75 427 446 163
350 Hollywood FL 27.93 186 454 82 253 421
351 Whittier CA 27.89 384 70 308 468 131
352 Plantation FL 27.89 313 403 200 157 274
353 Davenport IA 27.87 154 457 319 324 184
354 Visalia CA 27.81 286 241 355 401 266
355 Henderson NV 27.76 319 194 353 442 169
356 Rochester MN 27.75 447 199 115 392 90
357 Topeka KS 27.73 302 391 43 231 420
358 Rio Rancho NM 27.69 323 438 396 86 316
359 Palmdale CA 27.67 374 275 430 237 310
360 Newton MA 27.60 475 191 280 336 1
361 Milpitas CA 27.52 426 282 367 252 75
362 Newport News VA 27.51 317 350 314 312 168
363 Indio CA 27.49 359 156 130 454 299
364 Augusta GA 27.49 189 491 242 104 389
365 Columbus GA 27.48 194 480 167 235 206
366 Thornton CO 27.45 315 335 350 320 193
367 Bloomington MN 27.35 474 144 385 227 175
368 Pompano Beach FL 27.34 195 482 110 150 431
369 Manchester NH 27.33 338 152 259 437 385
370 Rapid City SD 27.32 248 416 114 315 308
371 Tuscaloosa AL 27.28 287 497 141 42 327
372 Salinas CA 27.26 345 215 421 410 236
373 Livonia MI 27.26 285 361 398 374 166
374 Southfield MI 27.14 339 448 423 99 355
375 Ogden UT 27.10 321 397 255 259 256
376 Hemet CA 27.09 256 180 379 456 433
377 Washington DC 27.05 419 295 52 464 30
378 Billings MT 27.01 283 462 136 271 197
379 Medford OR 27.00 156 367 166 394 472
380 Clovis CA 26.98 442 305 268 311 115
381 Merced CA 26.95 245 291 403 423 390
382 Doral FL 26.94 329 390 335 192 300
383 Bakersfield CA 26.92 279 314 294 424 292
384 Westminster CO 26.84 423 309 262 283 217
385 Pawtucket RI 26.80 340 223 445 433 267
386 St. George UT 26.76 395 419 117 304 101
387 Santa Clara CA 26.74 462 244 302 422 24
388 Santa Ana CA 26.71 394 258 420 310 320
389 Richmond CA 26.69 336 78 468 497 262
390 Farmington Hills MI 26.67 362 426 464 119 229
391 Wichita KS 26.62 324 437 264 238 254
392 Pueblo CO 26.60 364 321 277 216 463
393 Norfolk VA 26.59 403 287 219 362 248
394 Anchorage AK 26.57 174 433 500 367 100
395 West Covina CA 26.56 464 302 409 254 143
396 Quincy MA 26.51 438 166 408 376 272
397 Rockford IL 26.48 355 264 188 300 475
398 Moreno Valley CA 26.47 456 108 469 387 191
398 Sioux Falls SD 26.47 422 379 182 267 186
400 Somerville MA 26.27 461 201 251 476 43
401 Memphis TN 26.22 192 463 197 270 470
402 Kenosha WI 26.20 367 219 245 451 335
403 Pasco WA 26.07 382 401 440 238 286
404 Hayward CA 26.02 407 281 462 393 170
405 Hampton VA 26.02 452 253 369 349 213
406 Inglewood CA 26.01 277 316 447 434 399
407 Independence MO 25.97 275 484 310 161 381
408 Lynn MA 25.96 476 87 498 327 380
409 Joliet IL 25.84 454 318 414 229 347
410 Vallejo CA 25.82 392 157 463 453 353
411 San Leandro CA 25.65 455 137 442 477 157
412 Wyoming MI 25.61 415 232 449 404 328
413 Buena Park CA 25.60 479 67 378 475 112
414 Warren MI 25.59 246 296 477 482 410
414 Rialto CA 25.59 444 187 482 419 255
416 Palm Bay FL 25.54 365 386 335 284 392
417 Sparks NV 25.54 378 406 387 293 259
418 Montgomery AL 25.51 228 464 290 285 436
419 Fresno CA 25.49 288 352 342 431 395
420 Meridian ID 25.48 453 458 291 158 142
421 Champaign IL 25.35 318 428 123 350 423
422 North Port FL 25.32 234 470 322 345 345
423 Odessa TX 25.25 332 449 337 305 287
424 Edinburg TX 25.24 436 477 458 101 190
425 Sioux City IA 25.22 282 427 374 425 260
426 Racine WI 25.19 389 209 246 388 485
427 Downey CA 25.09 429 270 404 461 183
428 Pembroke Pines FL 25.04 397 478 292 92 365
429 Waukegan IL 24.95 428 259 451 378 404
430 Sterling Heights MI 24.89 348 315 481 443 368
431 Ontario CA 24.85 405 213 415 457 277
432 Hialeah FL 24.84 298 393 479 257 488
433 Nampa ID 24.84 435 442 283 258 243
434 Milwaukee WI 24.82 350 222 243 480 465
434 Flint MI 24.82 152 290 413 466 500
436 Victorville CA 24.80 410 368 419 355 312
437 Bismarck ND 24.78 473 465 333 97 117
438 Pomona CA 24.77 356 301 478 474 298
439 Fontana CA 24.62 459 293 473 412 195
440 Toledo OH 24.56 440 181 345 368 489
441 Chino CA 24.49 451 366 358 428 124
442 South Gate CA 24.39 488 61 486 415 442
443 Sunrise FL 24.22 333 452 443 220 467
444 Lakewood CA 23.90 470 208 405 486 116
445 New Bedford MA 23.85 411 154 465 491 454
446 New Haven CT 23.78 375 346 284 470 409
447 Brooklyn Park MN 23.67 492 163 480 398 233
448 Elizabeth NJ 23.55 433 320 492 430 401
449 Jackson MS 23.49 148 490 377 288 497
450 Layton UT 23.46 484 494 381 123 35
451 Westland MI 23.40 393 389 452 395 437
452 Gresham OR 23.39 413 436 435 297 448
453 Westminster CA 23.31 430 385 417 445 276
454 Pittsburg CA 23.29 485 324 456 413 144
455 Cleveland OH 23.22 327 334 181 473 493
456 Fargo ND 23.09 446 472 146 405 140
457 Daly City CA 22.91 463 284 437 499 63
458 Miramar FL 22.86 460 460 432 212 388
459 Bridgeport CT 22.80 358 304 459 493 453
460 Detroit MI 22.80 314 262 361 483 499
461 Portsmouth VA 22.74 471 300 425 438 340
462 Deerfield Beach FL 22.68 344 421 158 427 494
463 South Jordan UT 22.62 489 496 450 203 7
464 Alhambra CA 22.49 439 412 386 467 293
465 Lawrence MA 22.35 466 413 493 298 458
466 Bellflower CA 22.17 467 414 488 409 351
467 Pharr TX 22.12 449 488 412 228 354
468 San Bernardino CA 22.11 432 371 460 463 440
469 Brockton MA 22.10 448 444 494 449 207
470 Garden Grove CA 21.94 458 395 466 472 314
471 Jurupa Valley CA 21.89 487 374 496 380 177
472 El Monte CA 21.82 483 228 490 481 426
473 West Jordan UT 21.81 499 455 456 292 52
474 Sandy UT 21.79 494 471 313 280 34
475 Springfield MA 21.72 385 322 390 495 473
476 Newark NJ 21.69 427 329 467 429 495
477 Lowell MA 21.60 420 446 372 462 411
478 Paterson NJ 21.31 396 380 497 487 466
479 Parma OH 21.22 496 402 392 330 329
480 Honolulu HI 21.13 457 441 499 471 139
481 Dearborn MI 21.07 416 451 448 479 428
482 Provo UT 20.87 482 468 296 418 220
483 Hartford CT 20.74 402 357 429 478 496
484 Carson CA 20.59 497 411 472 444 148
485 Lehi UT 20.56 498 495 399 343 3
486 Norwalk CA 20.52 490 404 484 469 228
487 Fall River MA 20.45 445 359 485 490 482
488 Hammond IN 20.38 215 479 422 500 450
489 Hawthorne CA 20.33 477 377 446 488 415
490 North Las Vegas NV 20.20 465 475 476 414 377
490 Miami Gardens FL 20.20 472 493 487 163 481
492 Orem UT 20.04 478 489 395 452 107
493 Brownsville TX 20.03 425 476 427 439 469
494 Compton CA 19.77 480 353 491 496 383
495 Kansas City KS 19.47 486 487 368 226 478
496 Laredo TX 19.04 431 473 470 494 393
497 Waterbury CT 17.62 493 429 444 492 468
498 Lauderhill FL 17.53 468 492 474 436 487
499 West Valley City UT 17.31 500 498 455 411 113
500 Cicero IL 17.17 495 319 495 498 490

Sheriff McFadden Confirms – Border Patrol To Be Deployed in Charlotte This Weekend

Charlotte Stories
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Sheriff McFadden Confirms – Border Patrol To Be Deployed in Charlotte This Weekend

Federal immigration agents are expected to arrive in the Charlotte area as soon as this weekend, according to Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden.

McFadden confirmed on Thursday that U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials contacted him Wednesday night to notify him of their plans. He said agents with the agency’s Border Patrol division will begin operating in the Charlotte region by Saturday or early next week.

The sheriff emphasized that his office has not been asked to assist or participate in any immigration enforcement actions. “We have been made aware, but not included in any operational plans,” McFadden said in a statement.

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) also clarified that it has no authority to enforce federal immigration laws and is not involved in the effort.

The confirmation comes just days after CBS News reported that federal officials were preparing to reduce their presence in Chicago and redirect Border Patrol personnel to other urban centers, including Charlotte. The shift signals a possible federal strategy to expand interior immigration operations beyond traditional border regions.

Most People Have No Idea That These Towns Under Lake Norman Even Exist

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Most People Have No Idea That These Towns Under Lake Norman Even Exist

Beneath the waters of Lake Norman lies huge sections of some of North Carolina’s most unique towns from the past. Although over half a century has passed, many roads, facilities, and even homes still sit eerily undisturbed beneath the water.

The East Monbo and Long Island cotton mills, were originally shut down in the 50s, to make way for Lake Norman – the largest man-made lake in North Carolina. At the time, each mill employed about 120 people, who worked, lived, and played in mill villages that were within walking distance of the mills.

Using old aerial photos, I’ve overlayed an estimation of where the old mills, and their small dams, now sit submerged under Lake Norman:

long-island-mill-under-water

These old images (from the Long Island, NC Facebook Page) show a glimpse of what things looked like before Lake Norman:

East Monbo Damn and Mill in Background
East Monbo Dam and Mill in Background
Long Island Mill and Mill Village
Long Island Mill and Mill Village

Workers from both mills were given the option to own their homes free of charge if they were able to pay for the homes to be moved outside of the flooded area – homes that were not moved were demolished and flooded.

In addition to the homes, several roads, out-buildings, and even grave-sites now sit quietly at the bottom of Lake Norman.

If you’d like to read more, local historian Chuck McShane has written an incredible piece, entitled “A History of Lake Norman: From Fish Camps To Ferraris“, which talks in depth about the the flooding of Lake Norman and the history of Long Island, NC and East Monbo, NC.

Bourbon for Booty Raises Over $100,000 for Local Cancer Community

Charlotte Stories
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Bourbon for Booty Raises Over $100,000 for Local Cancer Community

The 4th Annual Bourbon for Booty raised more than $100,000 to support cancer navigation and survivorship programs funded by 24 Foundation. Held on Nov. 1 at Swinerton, the sold-out event welcomed over 175 guests for an evening of curated whiskey and wine tastings, elevated cuisine, and spirited community giving.

“We raise a glass and extend huge thanks to all the attendees, our partners, and to everyone involved in making our Fourth Annual Bourbon for Booty a tremendous success,” said Katherine Murphy, executive director of 24 Foundation. “It was an exceptional evening to help change the course of cancer for individuals and families right here in our community.”

Guests received a souvenir tasting glass and sampled from a curated lineup of 10 premium bourbons and wines, each paired with chef-crafted small bites and hors d’oeuvres by Roots Catering. The evening also featured music, and a silent and live auction, which was called by Austin Helms, auctioneer and owner of Halftime Rentals. Julian Sadur, a morning anchor with Queen City News, emceed the event.

Event partners included: CarolinaPEO, Donald Haack Diamonds, Farsiani, LKN Mechanical, NuBlue, and Swinerton. Bourbon partners included: Brad Halling Whiskey Ko., Liberty & Plenty Distillery, Montana Whiskey Co., Oaklore Distilling, and Southern Tier Distilling.

About 24 Foundation

24 Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit charity located in Charlotte, N.C. with a mission to inspire and engage communities to make an immediate impact on the lives of people affected by cancer. Funds raised support organizations dedicated to cancer navigation and survivorship including Atrium Health’s Levine Cancer Institute and Levine Children’s Hospital. Since 2002, more than 30,000 participants in its signature 24 Hours of Booty fundraiser have raised more than $31 million, with an ultimate goal of providing supportive oncology programs and services for all. For more information, call 704-365-4417 or visit 24foundation.org.

Double-Decker Toll Lanes on I-77? Charlotte Weighs Controversial $3.2 Billion Plans

Charlotte Stories
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Double-Decker Toll Lanes on I-77? Charlotte Weighs Controversial $3.2 Billion Plans

Charlotte and NCDOT officials are currently weighing some dramatic options for I-77, including possible double-decker express toll lanes.

Transportation officials met with residents yesterday afternoon to gather feedback on an 11-mile, $3.2 billion plan to add toll lanes from the South Carolina line to Uptown.

Potential plans call for additional lanes, rebuilt interchanges, more access points. Some of the proposed plans even call for segments could run on elevated structures beside or above the highway.

via NCDOT

Double-deck highways have a complicated history. Mid-century projects sped traffic but often blighted neighborhoods. Seattle and San Francisco’s double-decker highways were built and then later removed elevated freeways after safety concerns and public pushback.

Embarcadero Freeway

Houston’s double-decker I-10 hasn’t done much to solve the city’s congestion problems.

Houston I-10

Charlotte officials say they will study impacts before selecting any elevated option.

A second drop-in meeting runs today from 4–7 p.m. at Silver Mount Baptist Church. Maps and engineers will be on site to answer questions. A formal public hearing is planned next year. Written comments are open through Dec. 5, 2025.

For comments or questions about the new I-77 toll lanes, call 1-800-254-0498 or email i-77south@ncdot.gov. You can also mail feedback to: Emily Richards, NCDOT Public Involvement, 1598 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1598.

Scout Motors Picks Charlotte for New US Headquarters – Snubs SC Despite $1.3 Billion in Incentives

Charlotte Stories
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Scout Motors Picks Charlotte for New US Headquarters – Snubs SC Despite $1.3 Billion in Incentives

Scout Motors just announced plans to build their new US Headquarters right here in Charlotte with a $207 million investment that promises 1,200 jobs by 2030.

The new facility will be located in Plaza Midwood, housing the company’s executive, R&D, IT, sales, and marketing positions with an average annual salary of $172,878.

The decision marks a major win for North Carolina—and a sharp blow to South Carolina, which recently gave $1.3 billion in taxpayer-funded incentives to entice Scout to come to the Palmetto State to build a massive manufacturing plant. While that factory is still expected to employ around 4,000 workers, the company’s high-paying corporate and innovation positions will now move 90 miles north to Charlotte.

North Carolina’s incentive package for the new Charlotte headquarters totals about $46.5 million – a small fraction of South Carolina’s $1.3 billion incentive package. The disparity underscores Charlotte’s growing competitiveness as a hub for corporate headquarters and advanced manufacturing leadership.

Scout Motors factory under construction in Blythewood, SC

“Charlotte is the ideal home for Scout Motors — a place as dynamic as our people and brand, where heritage and pride meet progress and innovation,” said Scout Motors CEO Scott Keogh in a press release. “With a thriving talent pool, world-class universities, and a deserved reputation as a launchpad for bold ideas, Charlotte offers the momentum we need to scale quickly and sustainably. We’ll build a headquarters that reflects our culture, empowers our team and connects us to a region that’s fast becoming a national hub for mobility and manufacturing.”

Founded in 2022 and backed by Volkswagen Group, Scout Motors revives the classic American brand first produced by International Harvester from 1961 to 1980—widely regarded as one of the earliest true sport-utility vehicles.

The company’s new Charlotte headquarters is expected to open in phases beginning in 2026, cementing the Queen City’s position as a growing force in the global electric vehicle economy.

Charlotte’s Fury 325 Wins Award For The Best Steel Coaster In The World

Charlotte Stories
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Charlotte’s Fury 325 Wins Award For The Best Steel Coaster In The World

Charlotte’s Fury 325 roller coaster has been named the world’s best steel coaster for the ninth year in a row, earning the prestigious Best Steel Coaster Award from Amusement Today’s Golden Ticket Awards.

Fury 325, which debuted in 2015, towers 325 feet high and reaches speeds of 95 miles per hour. Known for its steep drops, high-speed turns, and smooth ride experience, it continues to set the standard for ‘giga-coaster’ design.

The annual Golden Ticket Awards are decided by a panel of global amusement park experts, who praised the ride’s enduring engineering excellence and popularity among thrill-seekers.

Carowinds officials highlighted the award as a point of pride for the park, which straddles the North Carolina–South Carolina line. The win also adds momentum to Carowinds’ new chapter as part of the Six Flags chain, following last year’s merger between Six Flags and Cedar Fair. The combined $8 billion company now operates 42 amusement parks and 9 resorts across North America and trades publicly on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol FUN.

The recognition extended across the Six Flags family. Sister park Six Flags Fiesta Texas earned Best New Show for Voodoo Dolls, while Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Los Angeles received the Publisher’s Pick Turnstile Award for its 30th anniversary transformation. Additional honors included the Renaissance Award for Myrtle Beach’s Family Kingdom, credited with preserving the local park, and Supplier of the Year for Eli Bridge Company, a longtime Ferris wheel and ride manufacturer.

With Fury 325’s latest accolade, Charlotte remains home to one of the top thrill rides in the world — a title that continues to draw roller coaster enthusiasts from across the globe.

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