🌱 Charlotte Ranked No. 4 Moving Destination + Crayola IDEAworks

Happy Monday, Charlotte! Let's get you all caught up on what's happening locally to start today off on an informed note.

First, today's weather:

Sunny and beautiful. High: 73 Low: 51.

Here are the top three stories today in Charlotte:

1. The City of Charlotte's growth is now being highlighted on a national level. Charlotte ranked at No. 4 on Penske Truck Leasing's top 10 moving destinations for 2021. This instance is the first time Charlotte has made the list since 2017. See the full list of Penske's top moving destinations at the link. (WCNC.com)
2. Organizers of Crayola IDEAworks are bringing a new "ultimate creativity" attraction to the Queen City. The event was first introduced in Philadelphia and is making its way to Camp North End from May 13 through Labor Day. "It's a great location, but it's also for families. There's just so many things you can do in the area — food trucks, engagement, coffees, some areas for the kids to play," said executive producer Clayton Ferguson. "So, we just fell in love with it and are really excited to be in Charlotte." For ticket information, click here. (WCNC.com)
3. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department is investigating a homicide that happened over the weekend in south Charlotte. According to police, just after midnight on Sunday, officers responded to Granite Point Apartments on Deep Rock Circle on reports of a shooting. A man suffering from a gunshot wound was pronounced dead at the scene. Anyone with information is encouraged to call 704-432-TIPS and speak directly to a Homicide Unit detective. (WBTV)

Today in Charlotte:

• Family Storytime At Independence Branch (10:30 AM)
• French For Beginners Conversation Club (Virtual Event), Hosted By Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Main Branch (11:00 AM)

From my notebook:

• Charlotte's own Idlewild Elementary School has received national recognition from Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools. Idlewild Elementary brings together students with and without disabilities through engagement, youth leadership, and participation in Unified sports. (Facebook)
• Calling all prospective homeowners: don't miss the latest Charlotte-area houses to hit the market, courtesy of Patch and Redfin. (Charlotte Patch)
• Sometimes it’s just nice to sit back and listen to someone read you a story, and Charlotte Mecklenburg Library aims to meet that need with its Library on Call outreach service. Learn more about the program and see what stories are offered here. (Facebook)

More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

Events:

• Taxes in Retirement Seminar on 5/10 & 5/12 (May 10)
• Add your event

You're officially in the loop for today. I'll be back in your inbox tomorrow morning with your next update!

— Dan Casarella

About me: Dan Casarella is a writer, podcast producer, and small business development specialist who formerly worked in late-night television. He’s produced many talk segments, including with President Joe Biden, Kobe Bryant, and Chadwick Boseman. Dan studied Media Studies and Production at Temple University. He also enjoys running, painting, and the highs and lows of Philadelphia’s sports teams.