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A message from our team
Heads up, Charlotte. We’re a relatively small team that needs the occasional break, so we’ll be taking a pause on newsletters over the next week or so. If your inbox is missing your favorite local newsletter on Monday, March 23; Friday, March 27; and Monday, March 30 — don’t fret. We’ll be back. In the meantime, peruse our archives.
A blinding good birthday
Imagine cheering on your favorite team on the biggest screen in the Queen City. | Photo via Blinders Sports Lounge
Upwards of 85,000. That’s how many people have visited Blinders Sports Lounge since its opening in March 2025. Known for its record-breaking screen, the South End hangout is gearing up to celebrate its first anniversary with a spring refresh and March Madness.
“My first reaction walking in was that I had never seen anything like that outside of a movie theater,” Blinders’ Chef Chris Wren told CLTtoday.
Over the past year, Blinders has become a go-to destination for game days, fight nights, and casual meetups. The biggest crowd so far came during the Canelo vs. Crawford fight on Sept. 13, when roughly 1,300 guests packed the venue — the largest turnout since opening.
The anniversary launch arrives just ahead of March Madness, with reservations available for watch parties and other activations throughout the year. Keep an eye on its social media for what’s to come.
Dottie Rose Foundation aims to spark curiosity and build confidence in the next generation of women across STEM focuses. | Photos provided by Ekaterina Gorlatova
The Dottie Rose Foundation is on a mission to spark curiosity and build confidence in the next generation of women in technology.
Based here in Charlotte, DRF’s hands-on programs introduce girls to tangible technology and coding skills, cultivating confidence and creativity, and connecting education to real-world career pathways.
The Dottie Rose Foundation’s work creates a pipeline of future female technologists ready to enter Charlotte’s growing tech workforce. By investing in girls today, they’re helping shape the innovators, leaders, and problem-solvers of tomorrow.
Soft-serve margaritas are the latest TikTok trend. It’s hard to find them in some places, but not in Charlotte. Que Fresa Tacqueria and Bar was way ahead of the trend at both its Wesley Heights and Uptown locations.
Eat
Want to wash that down? Leluia Hall’s new seafood platter will do the trick, with oysters, shrimp, truffle-infused crab salad, ceviche, and more all waiting to take your food plans up a level.
Traffic
An I-77 entrance ramp near Lake Norman will close overnight for two nights this weekend as work continues to widen the road. The closure will last roughly five hours tonight and tomorrow night, beginning just after midnight, and is part of the $249 million project to widen NC 150. (Charlotte Observer)
Development
A former car dealership has been transformed into affordable housing for older adults in Salisbury. The project to add 64 apartments at Ford City Motor Lofts began in September 2023, and the complex officially opens today at 419 S. Main St. (Charlotte Business Journal)
Try This
The world’s largest bounce park is coming to town. Funbox is taking over Carolina Place for three days, starting next Friday, March 27. Tickets are $18 in advance for a 90-minute session, perfect for kids, a different-looking date idea, or anyone who trusts their knees. (@dailydreclt)
List
Inc. Magazine’s 2026 Female Founders 500 list is out, and one business owner from Charlotte made the cut. The list highlights women leading companies and nonprofits across the US, including Left Main REI CEO and founder Stephanie Betters.
Holiday
Charlotte Eid Festival takes place tomorrow, March 21, at Ridge Road Middle School. The free family-friendly event will celebrate the end of Ramadan, and will feature food, henna, and a bounce house from 12 to 5 p.m.
Health
Strength training isn’t just for athletes — it becomes more important as we age. Experts at Novant Health say resistance training can help protect bone health, boost mobility, and support long-term independence. Ready to age stronger?Learn more.*
Practice Makes Progress. It’s not just a good reminder, it’s the title of Four-time Emmy-winning journalist Molly Grantham’s upcoming talk at Winthrop University on Thursday, March 26. Register to attend this free event, and stay tuned for more speakers as part of the Whitton Executive Series.*
Read
Overwhelmed by biased news? Cut through the noise and get the facts by reading 1440’s daily newsletter. You’ll be in good company — it’s already trusted by 4.5 million Americans. Subscribe for free.*
It’s hard not to smile when you’re running with friends for a good cause.
Photo via The Go Jen Go Foundation
The 14th annual Run Jen Run 5K and Festival takes place tomorrow, March 21 at 7 a.m. at SouthPark’s TowneBank Symphony Park. The 5K and fun run support The Go Jen Go Foundation, a nonprofit that provides support to Charlotte-area families and supporters living with cancer.
Registration for the 5K and fun run is still open + the price will increase on race day.
The Buy
Today marks the official first day of spring. To celebrate, we’re sharing our wardrobe must-haves for the season:
👚 Slip on this short sleeve cardigan for seamless warm weather layering.
☀️ Stay comfy and cute in this elevated casual gingham two-piece set.
👕 Opt for a lightweight henley tee on those chillier spring mornings.
👗 Flaunt this boho maxi skirt available in springtime hues like light pink, baby blue, and rose.
🩳 Lounge in these casual high-waisted shorts with pockets and a drawstring.
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