Mayor calls Charlotte a ‘sports city’ + Bryce Young takes all first-team reps

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Growth vs. Gentrification: Stop it or embrace it? The Charlotte Observer presents a community conversation illuminating this key topic of concern to residents.

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On to your news.

1. Mayor calls Charlotte a ‘sports city.’ Will it pay to keep things that way

Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles described Charlotte as a “sports city” at the Hood Hargett Breakfast Club, a business executive luncheon.

Charlotte has an NBA team, an NFL team and several golf tournaments that bring in tourists. There’s even the possibility of a prestigious tennis tournament, the Western and Southern Open, coming to the Queen City.

Genna Contino explains.

2. Panthers OTAs: Bryce Young takes all first-team reps, Jaycee Horn out with ankle injury

The Panthers wrapped up their final week of organized team activities Thursday. Rookie QB Bryce Young took all of the first-team reps in drills in practice.

Young, who had some early misfires in individual and 7-on-7 sessions, found his accuracy during the 11-on-11 work. Young had a trio of impressive tosses to wideout Terrace Marshall during the full-team drills.

Mike Kaye has more.

3. Is it OK to walk your dog in Charlotte? What to do with pets during air quality crisis

As wildfires in Canada continue to burn, smoke and harmful particles have led to unhealthy air quality conditions that could affect you and your pets.

Air quality in Charlotte currently sits at 47, which is considered “good”. While people have been advised to wear masks, limit outdoor activities and even avoid going outside at all, animals and pets need protection, too.

Evan Moore has more on if its safe for pets to be outside.

4. We’re looking for the best tattoo shop in the Charlotte area. Nominate your favorite.

I’ve been thinking about getting a tattoo... Where would you go for the ink in Charlotte?

Take our poll to tell us your favorite tattoo shop and why. And if you have more than one favorite spot in the region, just refresh the page and vote again.

Vote now and share with your friends!

5. Some more stories to read

• Truck spills its chicken guts on the road, delaying I-485 commute Thursday morning

• These are the 8 best sushi spots in the Charlotte area. Vote now for your favorite.

• Fire department: Apartment building contractor broke NC rules before SouthPark fire

• Need medication to treat strep but can’t find it? A Charlotte pharmacist explains why

• NC’s Native American students will soon be able to wear feathers at their graduations

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