Melissa Oyler

2 weeks ago | charlotteobserver.com | Melissa Oyler

If the idea of a summer spent kayaking, swimming, or boating on a local lake has you hooked, you're in luck. The Charlotte metro area boasts a stunning array of public lakes, each with its own charm and recreational opportunities. So whether you're new to the Charlotte area or you're just looking for a new place to stay cool this summer, I'm here to help. For me, this connection runs deep - I grew up on these lakes. My grandmother's house at Lake Wylie was a second home to me.

1 month ago | charlotteobserver.com | Olivia Lee |Melissa Oyler

Small businesses in Western North Carolina, such as French Broad Chocolates, can still use help as the area rebuilds from Hurricane Helene. Although it's been months since Hurricane Helene devastated many North Carolina mountain towns, residents and local businesses are still struggling to get back on their feet in a region that relies heavily on tourism. With a decline in visitor numbers and travel dollars, and federal aid nowhere in sight, the future remains uncertain for many in the area.

1 month ago | charlotteobserver.com | Melissa Oyler |Heidi Finley

Whether you've lived in Charlotte for a short time or you've been here your whole live, you probably know how lucky we have it here in the Carolinas: Close to the mountains, close to the ocean. There are plenty of places to go for a day trip or a weekend getaway. The most difficult part is choosing where to go. Do you drive south to the Lowcountry, visiting Charleston and Beaufort?

1 month ago | charlotteobserver.com | Melissa Oyler

Morelia Gourmet Paletas can be dipped, drizzled and covered in your preferred topping. An added bonus is that it can rest in a fresh waffle bowl. A juice and smoothie bar and an ice cream shop are joining Charlotte's Centro NoDa. They will be part of a curated lineup that includes a Yemeni café, a Philly hoagie restaurant, a children's boutique and a local clothing store.

1 month ago | islandpacket.com | Melissa Oyler

Grill and bonfire safety made easy: Safety tips and Beaufort County regulations for a worry-free summer of outdoor celebrations and fun. Melissa Oyler CharlotteFive Nothing defines summer more than evening bonfires, s’more making and hot dog grill-offs. With these activities embodying the epitome of summer fun, they can unfortunately cause some safety concerns if things get a bit too out of hand.