The Double Oaks Family Aquatic Center boasts a 25-yard pool, zero-depth entrance, and water slide. | Photo via Mecklenburg Park and Recreation
While we’re not fans of heat indices above 100 degrees, we are fans of splashing around to beat the heat. Bookmark this list of outdoor swimming spots, splash pads, water parks, and lakes to stay cool as a cucumber all summer long.
Indoor and outdoor pools
Cordelia Pool | Open through Sept. 1 | The Cordelia Pool is a refreshing sight in NoDa — boasting a large water slide and 50-yard pool.
Double Oaks Family Aquatic Center | Open through Sept. 1 | Experience this outdoor aquatic center with a water slide, zero-depth entry pool, play features, and more.
Ramsey Creek Beach is a waterfront beach with a swimming area at Ramsey Creek Park.
Photo via Mecklenburg County
Natural swimming spots
Ramsey Creek Beach | Open through Sept. 1 | Located at Ramsey Creek Park, this hangout offers a boat launch, picnic shelters, a fishing pier, and a volleyball court.
The Quarry at Carrigan Farms | Open through Sept. 1 | Dive into the deep, natural quarry at Carrigan Farms before enjoying lunch at the restaurant — reservations are required.
Johnson Brothers Wine Tasting | 5:30-7:30 p.m. | Roots Cafe | Free | The beloved cafe is celebrating a new wine menu with free tastings — first come, first served.
“Legally Blonde: The Musical” | 7 p.m. | Booth Playhouse | $25+ | “Bend and snap” your way through Elle’s journey of discovery while attending Harvard.
Friday, July 11
Collidoscope: de la Torre Brother Retro-Perspective | 11 a.m.-6 p.m. | Mint Museum Uptown at Levine Center for the Arts | $15 + | Marvel at the mixed-media and glassworks by the renowned artists Einar and Jamex de la Torre.
Custom Fragrance Making Workshop | 6:30-9 p.m. | Note & Accord | $125 | Join this two-hour workshop to create a signature scent.
Movies on the Lawn: “Toy Story” | 7 p.m. | Johnston YMCA | Free | Bring the family and lawn chairs to watch the classic Disney film outdoors.
Saturday, July 12
Fort Mill Farmers & Artisans Market | 9 a.m.-12 p.m. | Veterans Park, Fort Mill, SC | Cost of purchase | Shop local from a collection of vendors and farmers.
USA National Rugby vs. Spain Rugby | 7:30 p.m. | American Legion Memorial Stadium | $12+ | Cheer for the USA Men’s Eagles as they face Spain in this international matchup.
Simple changes like stretching, strengthening your core, and maintaining good posture go a long way. | Photo provided by Novant Health
Nagging aches, stiffness after chores, or waking up sore could all be signs your spine needs more support. The good news?Novant Health experts say simple daily habits can make a big difference.
Knowing these do’s and don’ts — which are mostly small changes — can go a long way:
Do:
Stretch often and build core strength
Eat enough calcium and vitamin D
Use ergonomic setups
Don’t:
Smoke
Lift heavy objects alone
Wear unsupportive shoes
Already dealing with back or neck pain? The experts at Novant Health are here to help you find relief and get back to feeling your best.
Here’s an idea: Go thrifting at AnthropologieFound, a new store now open in NoDa. The racks are packed with vintage clothing — priced from $8 to $100 — plus, shoes, jewelry, and other accessories. (Axios Charlotte)
Closing
Veggeez Plant Based Eatery, a vegan spot in Waxhaw, will close on Saturday, July 19. But it’s not goodbye. Owners Ken Poski and Lisa Vigil will be open to private events and catering. (The Charlotte Observer)
This November, voters could decide on a one-cent sales tax to fund transit projects, like expanding the Light Rail to Bojangles Coliseum, and the creation of a transit authority. County Commissioners will vote on the measure at their Aug. 6 meeting, before sending it to the Board of Elections. (WCNC)
Community
Starting Wednesday, Oct. 1, you may notice speed cameras in school zones. Senate Bill 391 aims to stop speeding in school zones. If caught, drivers will pay a $250 fine. (WCNC)
Edu
Ballantyne School of Music is looking for a new location in the Queen City after its landlord decided to end the lease. A GoFundMe has been created to cover moving and outfitting costs for a new studio. Students can also visit the Indian Land, SC location + take virtual lessons. (WBTV)
The Carolina Panthers will host their annual Fan Fest on Saturday, Aug. 2 at Bank of America Stadium. Fans can watch players practice, get autographs, and end the night with fireworks. Tickets are $5 + go on sale Friday, July 11.
Cause
The Charlotte Hornets Foundation donated $100,000 to Hope Street Food Pantry. The funds will provide groceries to thouasnds of people facing food insecurity. (WCNC)
Sports
How will draft pick Kon Knueppel fit alongside LaMelo Ball, Miles Bridges, and Brandon Miller Go beyond the playbook for the biggest stories on the Charlotte Hornetswith Locked On’s daily, team-focused podcasts.
Job
Your dream employee is probably reading our newsletter right now — want them to see your job first? Add your job listing to our CLTtoday Job Board, at no cost.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
Tomorrow is National Piña Colada Day and Leluia Hall is celebrating with three special drinks starting at 4 p.m. Fun fact: the Piña Colada originated in Puerto Rico (where my family is from) in the 1950s and, in 1978, it became the official drink of the island.
Speaking of drinks... I’m looking for where to get the best margarita in the Queen City. Got a favorite? I’d love to hear it!
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