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Charlotte Firefighters Go Above And Beyond By Doing THIS After Responding To A Car Crash

People who go above and beyond are typically self-motivated and have a strong work ethic. They are passionate about their work and take pride in what they do. These individuals…

Portrait of firefighter carrying hose

If firefighter is your dream job, it’s one of the easier ones to get. Of course you have to be able to pass the rigorous fitness test, but your odds of securing the job? 1 in 287.

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People who go above and beyond are typically self-motivated and have a strong work ethic. They are passionate about their work and take pride in what they do. These individuals are not content with simply meeting the minimum requirements; they strive to do their best and make a difference in the lives of those around them, and that is exactly what one Fire Department in our county did!

One evening last week, the West Mecklenburg, North Carolina, Fire Department responded to a car accident west of Charlotte. Both of the drivers sustained non-life-threatening injuries and after firefighters had done their duty tending to the drivers, they went one step further by completing a DoorDash delivery for one of them.

According to QCNews When firefighter Brendan Montesi learned that the delivery location was only a few minutes from the crash site, he asked his fellow firefighters, “Why don’t we just go take this DoorDash order and finish it out?" Video of the crew pulling into the apartment complex where the McDonald’s order was being delivered shows one of the firefighters dropping off two bags to the grateful customer.

Montesi says it’s all part of serving “the same people we see every day,’ and adds that, in his line of work, you never know what the job might require. And Fire Chief Scott Hunter commended the act, saying, "This is just another example of how public safety personnel make a difference, whether it’s an emergency or not."

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Grown-up Playdates To Enjoy Around Charlotte With Your Partner and Friends

When was the last time you and your partner did something silly together? If you can’t remember, it’s time to fix that with an adult playdate. Kids have playdates with their besties all the time, but they shouldn’t be the only ones having fun because playing is important for both our physical and mental health. Not only is it a good time, but according to Cafe Mom, research shows people who laugh every day have a lower rate of heart disease. Cafe Mom had some great ideas for dates so I thought I would give you my local picks for great dates that will spice up your social life too!

When planning dates with your partner, it is important to consider both of your interests and schedules. Try to find activities that you both enjoy and that allow for quality time together. It can also be helpful to switch up the types of dates you go on, such as trying new restaurants, going on outdoor adventures, or staying in for a cozy night.

Communication is key when planning dates, so be sure to discuss your ideas and preferences with your partner to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience. Also, try to be open-minded. If something doesn't sound like you would be into it, instead of shutting it down, take it as an opportunity to expand your horizons. You might even surprise yourself.

Ready to strengthen your relationship and improve your well-being? Try these grown-up playdates around Charlotte with your sweetie:

Hike Crowder Mountain

Crowder Mountain is one of Charlotte's gems. Plus, hiking ignites your sense of wonder and problem-solving abilities, and it’s good exercise, and there are tons of apps out there to help you plan your hiking route and find the right trail for your interests and abilities.

Wanna go a little farther? Brevard has some amazing trails too if you want to plan a little day trip!

Dog day at the park

Who doesn't love dogs?!? And if you and your hunny share a pet this is a great option to make the chore of walking fido a way to connect with all 3 of you. Spending time with your pet can help lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol and your dog would love some quality time at the park with you and your partner.

Have a friend couple that also has a dog? Grab a glass of wine and double date.

Laser tag

Battle it out with a few rounds of Laser Tag game, which is perfect for a hot summer day since you’ll be playing inside with cool AC. 

Laser tag is a fun and exciting activity that can be perfect for a date. It is a great way to bond and share a thrill with your partner. Laser tag venues often have different game modes to choose from, such as team vs. team or free-for-all, allowing for variety in gameplay. Additionally, laser tag can be a good icebreaker, as it provides an opportunity for playful banter and friendly competition.

Overall, laser tag can be a unique and enjoyable date idea that is sure to create lasting memories.

Ziplining at the Whitewater Center

Find a course and enjoy racing your partner through the treetops while you get some fresh air and healthy movement. 

Ziplining is an adventurous activity where you glide through the air on a cable suspended between two points. It's a thrilling way to experience beautiful scenery and get an adrenaline rush at the same time.

Ziplining can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels, making it a great activity for dates or groups. Safety is always a top priority, and zipline courses are typically designed and maintained to high standards. If you're looking for a unique and exciting outdoor activity, ziplining is definitely worth considering. Especially since we have one right here in Charlotte at the Whitewater Center.

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Kayaking or Whitewater Rafting

Going on a whitewater rafting date can be a thrilling and adventurous experience. It's a great way to bond with your partner while enjoying all the Whitewater Center has to offer.  Pay attention to the safety instructions provided by the rafting company and communicate effectively with your partner during the ride. Don't forget to capture the memories by taking photos or videos of your exciting date.

It's also a fun place to invite friends since you can have more than 2 people in the raft, and Whitewater Center has a lot of bars and other activities for when you get bored of paddling.

Bowling

Some bowling alleys have deals on certain days of the week so you can play a few games, have some snacks and engage in a little friendly competition on the cheap. And with so many great bowling alleys from Pins Mechanical to Bowlero and Queen Park Social to Spare Time there are lots of places to make this happen. It's a great couple's date idea too! Just don't get too competitive. It might just turn your significant other off. 

Ballroom Dancing

The guys are gonna kill me for this one but ballroom dancing can be a great date idea for several reasons. Firstly, it provides an opportunity for physical touch and connection, which can help to create intimacy and closeness between partners.

Additionally, ballroom dancing requires coordination and communication, which can be a fun and engaging way to get to know each other better. Furthermore, the elegant and sophisticated nature of ballroom dancing can create a romantic and memorable atmosphere for a date.

Finally, learning a new skill together can be a bonding experience that helps to build a stronger relationship.

And listen, if ballroom isn't your thing, you can go to a club or a country bar and line dance too!

Golf

Andddd likewise, the women might hate me for this one. GOLF!

Hit some balls at Top Golf or the range, play a full nine holes, or practice putting at a mini golf course; as long as you’re having fun with your partner, it’s a perfect grown-up playdate.

And you know what, if you try something new, you never know, you might enjoy it too and find a new hobby. 

LauRen Merola Strager is a former NFL & NBA cheerleader turned radio host. LauRen is a former Miss Pennsylvania USA and is a proud wife and mother of two. She is the owner and chief editor for her fashion and lifestyle Blog “All Of The F-Words” and is a champion for the Autism community. You can read all about LauRen’s thoughts on motherhood, pageant life, and everyday life through her online content.