Charlotte - America’s # 1 Place to Live
Charlotte has been voted America’s #1 city to live in by Relocate-America.com I’ve been here since 1995, and have been visiting regularly since the early 80’s. I would never have imagined that there would be so much to do in my adopted hometown, while at the same time keeping the small town feel and relative affordability to other areas. Check out the links below and let me know what you think? Agreement/Disagreement/Comments???
I moved here 13 years ago with no job and a couch to sleep on in my aunt & uncle’s house. Now I am raising a family and running a successful business in what is in my opinion the best city in America!
Olympic Kayaking, Steeplechasing, & Bruuuuce This Weekend!
A great weekend looms before us here in Charlotte! Actually ‘looms’ might not be the right word, since it’s shaping up to be a fantastic weekend. If ever you’ve wondered what there is to do in Charlotte - wonder no more.
Beginning today, our own US National Whitewater Center hosts a 3-day event at their exciting facility. And they’re not just hosting one event - that would be too easy - they are hosting 3 separate events! First and foremost is the 2008 US National Olympic Team Trials. 15 athletes will be selected for the US National Team, with 5 going on to compete in Bejing at the Olympics! Second, is the 2008 Canadian Olympic Team Trials. And third, is the 2008 Pan American Slalom Championships and Olympic Qualifier. Whew! That’s a lot of whitewater and a lot of fun. There is an entry fee for these events. For more information, visit USNWC.org. Take it outside!
Second up for this weekend on Saturday is the Queen’s Cup Steeplechase in Mineral Springs, just outside of Waxhaw. This annual (last Saturday in April) event draws tens of thousands of spectators and tailgaters all eager to watch incredible horses and jockeys compete over brush and timber jumps at a full gallop. Tailgate spaces usually sell out, but the enormous infield can hold an infinite number people with room to spare. Races start around 1pm and last until around 4:30. A party for everyone near the finish line includes live music and food - and costs nothing - a perfect way to end the day. Besides the races, there are numerous attractions for kids and adults alike. Early tickets can be purchased at Harris Teeter. For more information, visit QueensCup.org. Each year, the Queen’s Cup proceeds benefit a regional charity. This year, that charity is Make-A-Wish. We’ll be there as usual - stop by Withers 46 & 47 and say hi - we’ll save a Mimosa for you!
On Sunday evening, at Bobcats - excuse me - Time Warner Cable Arena - Bruuuuce! The one, the only, The Boss! Sadly, the recent death of keyboardist Danny Federici will certainly be felt, but Bruce never fails to inspire and impress even the most jaded concert goers. It should be a night to remember for all. What a great way to end the weekend.
And then on Monday, the Wachovia Championship Golf Tournament begins at Quail Hollow Country Club. The best part of the tournament is that you can bring your camera on Monday, Tuesday, & Wednesday! It’s a great chance to get up close to the pros. For ticket information, visit WachoviaChampionship.com.
With all of that going on - no one can claim to be bored in the upcoming days. I’m going to need a weekend to recover from the weekend! Have fun everyone and report back on your experiences!
Whitewater Rafting And Kayaking
Looking for a way to cool off in these 100+ degree days? Head on out to the US National Whitewater Center (USNWC) for the day. The center, dedicated to outdoor sports and recreation, centers on the WORLD’S LARGEST man made whitewater channel. It’s worth the trip just to see this amazing ‘river’. Beginning in a large upper pool, the water heads down two different channels - both containing adjustable rapid elements - then collects in the large lower pool, and is recirculated back to the upper pool! Rafts and kayaks travel down the channels, and are transported back to the upper pool via a large conveyor belt - just sit in your boat and enjoy the ride before heading back down again!
The center was built to train our Olympic whitewater kayakers, but also for outdoors-loving people of any ability to enjoy. Some of the other activities offered include: whitewater rafting, flatwater kayaking (on the adjacent Catawba River), outdoor climbing, mountain biking, hiking, and a ropes course. Guided trips and lessons are also available.
So - Take it Outside!
