North Carolina Swimmer Dies From Fresh Water Brain-Eating Amoeba

Steve
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North Carolina Swimmer Dies From Fresh Water Brain-Eating Amoeba

The NC Department of Health and Human Resources just sent out an alert after an individual died from a brain-eating amoeba after swimming in a North Carolina water park.

The official cause of death was a Naegleria Fowleri brain infection, the same organism that infected and killed an 18-year-old girl at the National Whitewater Center in 2016.

“An individual died after developing an illness caused by an amoeba that is naturally present in warm freshwater during the summer. The individual became ill after swimming in Fantasy Lake Water Park in Cumberland County on July 12, 2019,” the press release noted.

The infections increase in frequency when the weather is exceptionally hot and dry, resulting in higher water temperatures and lower water levels. Symptoms of a Naegleria Fowleri infection include; severe headache, fever, nausea and vomiting, progressing to stiff neck, seizures, and an eventual coma.

“Our sympathies are with the family and loved ones,” said State Epidemiologist Zack Moore, M.D. “People should be aware that this organism is present in warm freshwater lakes, rivers and hot springs across North Carolina, so be mindful as you swim or enjoy water sports.” 

In warmer fresh water lakes and rivers, where this infection has been more common, the state recommends the following precautions:

  • Limit the amount of water going up your nose. Hold your nose shut, use nose clips or keep your head above water when taking part in warm freshwater-related activities.
  • Avoid water-related activities in warm freshwater during periods of high water temperature and low water levels.
  • Wear certified nose clips and ear plugs when swimming in warm fresh water.
  • Avoid digging in or stirring up the sediment while taking part in water-related activities in shallow, warm freshwater areas.

For more information visit www.cdc.gov/parasites/naegleria.

New 32-Story High-Rise Planned For Uptown Charlotte

Charlotte Stories
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New 32-Story High-Rise Planned For Uptown Charlotte

Charlotte’s skyline is about to change once again with the addition of a new 32-story apartment tower at the northern corner of Uptown.

According to city records, Carolina Development Group NC filed a rezoning request last month for a new tower containing up to 320 residential units (either apartments or condos) and at 5,000 square feet of commercial on the ground floor.

If approved by the Charlotte City Council, the new tower will be built on a 1 acre lot at 712 North Smith Street on the corner of W. 10th St. and N. Graham St.

The new 4th ward tower would be built next to 6 story Garrison at Graham Lofts condo building.

What do you think of the tower? 

Elton John Coming To Charlotte On Farewell Tour

Charlotte Stories
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Elton John Coming To Charlotte On Farewell Tour

Music icon Elton John just added 25 more shows to his last planned farewell tour, including a stop in the Queen City.

With 34 Grammy awards, five Brit awards, three Academy awards and four Tony awards to his credit, Elton John is now considered one of the most versatile musical artists alive today.

On Wednesday, the 71-year-old released details of the new leg of his “Farewell Yellow Brick Road” tour, including a massive show in Uptown Charlotte at the Spectrum Center on November 6, 2019.

Tickets can now be purchased here on TicketMaster.com.

These Are The 5 Best Mexican Restaurants In Charlotte

Charlotte Stories
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These Are The 5 Best Mexican Restaurants In Charlotte

Mexican restaurants have always had a strong presence in the Queen City, but with more people moving here from the SouthWest, and from south of the border, our selection is now incredibly diverse.

Here are the 5 best Mexican restaurants in the Charlotte region;

#1 Paco’s Tacos 

pacos tacosPaco’s is the brainchild of local restaurant legend Frank Scibelli (founder of Mama Ricotta’s, Cantina 1511, Midwood Smokehouse, and Bad Daddies), it has become a local favorite for Mexican and Tex-Mex favorites here in Charlotte.

They use a variety of spices that are imported from a Texas-based company, and a tortilla machine creates fresh tortillas daily.

From the Wood-Fired Grilled Fajitas to the Cheese Enchiladas with chili con carne, Paco’s menu showcases some of the freshest quality ingredients in Charlotte.

#2 La Revolucion

VYtNGzkCkm0gUALa Revolucion is all about casual fun and flavorful Tex-Mex and Gulf Shore cuisine from Chef Gene Briggs and Chef de Cuisine Carlos Rangle, a native of Mexico City.

All fresh, made in-house: chips, salsa, guacamole, tacos, burritos, you name it…your favorite dish is waiting for you. Celebrate a birthday, eat before the show, or just come out and enjoy great food and our extensive margarita list. La Revolucion in the Avid XChange Music Factory is open daily for dinner and drinks.

#3 Sabor Latin Street Grill

sabor-6th-location

Most people who live anywhere near Uptown say this place makes the best tacos, hands down. Their Elizabeth and NoDa locations are equally amazing, affordable, and authentic.

#4 The Prickly Pear

margarona-mexican-bar-grillIf you’re looking for some more authentic Mexican fare, check out The Prickly Pear by Lake Norman.

Portions are very large, even by Mexican restaurant standards, and it’s still relatively unknown in the Charlotte region, so you typically won’t have too long of a wait.

#5 Don Pedro Mexican Restaurant

Don pedro charlotte mexicanDon Pedro’s have a slightly spicer selection than other places in Charlotte. Dishes are prepared with authentic spices and made using the traditional art of traditional Mexican preperation.

They have several locations throughout the Charlotte region, including in University Area, Gastonia, South Tryon and Pineville.

Please share;

Materials Commonly Used in Modern Home Designs

Scott Browder
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Materials Commonly Used in Modern Home Designs

The building material you pick plays a huge role when it comes to modern home designs and their value. But note that the material must not only enhance your home’s appearance, it must also be structurally solid. Have a look at the following options that’ll instantly transform your home into a modern haven of rest and relaxation while ensuring you have a durable place of shelter.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass is an example of a material you can use for your home designs. It can work for either home exterior sheathing or as structural components. You can use fiberglass reinforced panels for house construction to add strength. Many contractors, like Hardie Boys, use fiberglass and similar counterparts because of their durability and versatility.

Concrete

Concrete is another popular material used by many homeowners looking to build modern houses. What you’ll appreciate about concrete is its versatility because it comes in different forms to suit the desired application.

The most common types of concrete services include:

  • Insulated Concrete Form (ICF): This type of concrete is made up of rigid insulation. You pour concrete into forms, leave them to dry and they become the insulation of the house. But note that you’ll still need to add finishing material on top of the concrete layer.
  • Precast Concrete: Concrete that’s cast in a factory and shipped to the construction site is known as precast. The advantage of this type of concrete is that it can be monitored accurately compared to if it’s mixed at the site. The only trade-off with this type is it’ll cost you more.
  • Poured in Place Concrete: This type is poured into forms at the construction site. It’s the type to pick if you want material that’s not only modern but durable.

Steel Frame

Many construction companies and home builders such as Stillwater Dwellings are utilizing modern materials for home design projects. Metal frames — particularly steel — is yet another example of modern materials being used. The use of steel frames is a fast-growing trend that’s replacing wood frame homes. Durability is one of the main causes for its increasing popularity.

You have many steel frame options to pick from, which is a bonus. You’ll only have to spend a little more money on the material because it’s expensive. But for the superior construction it offers, it’s worth every penny.

Eco-Friendly Materials

Eco-friendly materials are also among the most popular trends of housing material. A few environmentally friendly options include bamboo and thatch. For a more practical approach, you can consider incorporating solar panels to power your house. Solar panels are as much modern as they’re functional.

Natural Materials

Using natural materials is one sure way of creating a beautiful interior or exterior for your home. You can incorporate natural and organic materials for areas such as your decking or patio. Make use of materials such as rock and slate for your tiling options. You can use natural stone for places such as your chimney surrounds or walkways.

Final Words

Contemporary approaches have taken over many aspects of our lives. And home construction isn’t exempted. The above list of materials isn’t entirely exhaustive and you can also opt for other materials such as glass or ternary blends.

Are you ready to embark on your modern building project? Use any one of the materials listed above and you’ll impress the neighborhood.

South Carolina Ranks #3 in America for Shark Attacks

Steve
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South Carolina Ranks #3 in America for Shark Attacks

Safewise just released a new report looking at where the most shark attacks occurred in the US over the past decade. The company analyzed data from all shark attacks, both fatal and nonfatal, reported to Global Shark Attack File from 2010 to 2019.

North Carolina ranked #5 for shark attacks in the country with 32 shark attacks since 2010 and attacks are currently on the rise – there have already been at least three attacks reported since June 2019 (the biggest great white sharks in the Atlantic were recently spotted off the Carolina Coast).

South Carolina ranked #3 over the past decade, just behind California (in spite of California having 8 times the population).

US Shark Attacks 2010–2019**
Florida* 218
Hawaii* 73
South Carolina 38
California* 37
North Carolina 32
Texas 14
Oregon 9
Alabama 4
Massachusetts * 4
New Jersey 4
Louisiana 2
Georgia 3
New York 2
Virginia 1
Delaware 1
Maine 1
Washington 1
Total 444

*Included at least one fatal attack. **This includes recorded attacks through June 2019.

If you plan on swimming near any North or South Carolina beaches, experts recommend taking extra precautions, including removing all shiny jewelry, wearing magnetic shark repellents, and avoiding colorful swimsuits.

Your risk will also increase if you swim at dusk or in the early hours of the night.

City of Tega Cay Removes Controversial Monument to Fallen Police Officers

Charlotte Stories
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City of Tega Cay Removes Controversial Monument to Fallen Police Officers

Last night, Tega Cay city leaders decided to remove a monument dedicated to fallen police officers after a controversy erupted over religious references.

When the monument was built, it featured several mentions of the word “Lord”. After several complaints, the city decided to remove the word from the monument. More complaints then poured in over the removal of the word.

Tega Cay City Manager Charlie Funderburk released the following statement about the ultimate removal of the monument:

The City of Tega Cay and our Police Department understand that not everyone agrees with the religious references that were on the monument located in the Fallen Officers Memorial at our Police Station. We also understand that just as many people are not in agreement that we have removed those references. There was never any intent to hold any group in higher regard than another. This monument was modeled after other monuments that appear across the country at various levels of government honoring law enforcement officers, military veterans and others whose duty is to protect and serve. Be that as it may, after seeking legal advice on the matter and after discussing it at length with City Council, we have made the decision to remove those references. We are public servants and want to make certain that all members of the public, regardless of what their religious beliefs may or may not be, understand that we are here to serve everyone. They will be welcomed into our facilities, whether it be the Police Station or City Hall, they will be treated fairly and with the respect they are owed by us. As the two sides of this issue continue to debate their stance we hope they will do so civilly and respectfully.

Local Congressman Ralph Norman disagreed with the decision and even posted a Facebook video in which he stated;

“You know the last time I checked, it was ‘one nation under God,’ to have this scratched out is sad, to say the least. That’s why we’re fighting in Washington, D.C. to put God back in public to buildings like this to put God back in our public schools.”

What do you think about the decision?

The UniverSoul Circus Is Coming To The Old Eastland Mall Site

Steve
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The UniverSoul Circus Is Coming To The Old Eastland Mall Site

One of the largest circuses in the world (now that Ringling Bros has ended) is coming to Charlotte’s old Eastland Mall site this summer.

The UniverSoul Circus, now in its 26th season, has built a massive tent at the site and will be performing high-flying and death-defying stunts for 13 days straight from Aug 21 – Sept 2.

universoul-circus-in-charlotteThe show will feature viral sensations, The Fresh Clownsss, as well as the Mighty Motor Cycle Madness Biker Team, The Bone Breaking Contortionists, and plenty of roller skaters, elephants, teeter board and hand vaulting, zebras and camels, aerial silks, horses, and Caribbean dancers.

Ringmaster Lucky Malatsi and his sidekick extraordinaire Zeke will guide audience members through each show on an action-packed adventure.

Shows will run from August 21st through September 2nd at the former Eastland Mall site, at 5471 Central Avenue in Charlotte.

Tickets are on sale now at StubHub.com.

NASCAR Legend Selling 30 Acre 5,000 Sq Ft Estate On Mt Island Lake For $4.9 Million

Charlotte Stories
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NASCAR Legend Selling 30 Acre 5,000 Sq Ft Estate On Mt Island Lake For $4.9 Million

NASCAR’s legendary promoter H. A. “Humpy” Wheeler has just put his massive Mountain Island Lake estate on the market for $4.9 million.

The sprawling 30 acre property is currently one of the last privately-owned sections of Mountain Island Lake that hasn’t been fully developed.

The Wheelers purchased the 30 acre property for $777,000 back in 1999 and built their 5,000+ square foot home in 2014. They’ve since decided that the property is just too much to take care of, especially since Humpy is now 80 years old.

Humpy and his wife designed the home in England’s Cotswold style.

They imported materials from around the Southeast in the construction, including; stone for the fireplace from Morganton, birdseye maple for the bookshelves from Greensboro, cypress for the TV cabinet from Eastern North Carolina, and heart pine for the floors from Greenville, SC.

The property is being marketed by Meca Realty in 3 separate listings:

photos via Meca Realty

New Food Truck Friday Kicking Off in Charlotte’s Montford Park

Steve
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New Food Truck Friday Kicking Off in Charlotte’s Montford Park

Charlotte’s newest Food Truck Friday Block Party is about to kick off in the rapidly growing area of Montford Park, between the Park Road Shopping Center and SouthPark.

Next Friday, August 2nd, Novel Montford will be hosting a massive block party featuring at least 6 food trucks, live music, and tons of local beer.

The party will feature Novel’s signature misting tent and free giveaways from Novel Montford Park.

The official line-up will include:

•Live Music by Whatever
•Lenny Boy beer tents featuring a new brew made specially for Novel Montford Park
•Baltimore Crab Cake Co.
•Tin Kitchen
•Frank and Charlie’s Good Eats
•Ace of Spuds
•Now Toasted
•Cow Bell Ice Cream

Bring the kiddos and puppers because this event is open to all.

Find out more on their Facebook event page here.

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