It looks like the Charlotte Bobcats are getting closer to that big name change that’s been rumored for months. CBSSports.com is reporting that the city’s pro basketball team has begun the process of changing its name to the Hornets. That was the name of Charlotte’s former NBA team, which moved to New Orleans. But the old name is available thanks to the New Orleans team’s re-christening as the Pelicans. Bobcats owner Michael Jordan has said he’s been studying the idea. NBA officials say it could take 18 months to complete a name change.
RACING TONIGHT: NASCAR'S BACK IN TOWN
NASCAR is back in town. The spring Race Week began Friday night at Charlotte Motor Speedway with qualifying for Saturday night’s All-Star Race and Sprint Showdown at Charlotte Motor Speedway. The All-Star Race begins at 9 o’clock, and Carl Edwards will have the pole position, after posting the top qualifying speed. Dale Earnhardt Jr. is in the No. 2 spot also on the front row. The race will feature an interesting twist – no speed limits on Pit Road. Drivers have had a bit of practice to try out the new rule. Earnhardt said yesterday, “It was chaos.” We’ll see how it works out tonight. Today’s schedule also includes the shorter Sprint Showdown. Martin Truex Jr. has the pole for that race, which starts at 7:30. He’s joined on the front row by Jamie McMurray.
RACE WEEK TRAFFIC
If you’re out on the roads in the speedway area today and over the next week, keep an eye out for heavier than normal traffic, especially on I-85. And beginning Sunday night, the I-85 widening project near NC 73 will lane and ramp closures. You can find traffic alerts on the travelers information system at NCDOT.gov
GOVERNOR SIGNS WIND ENERGY BILL
Gov. Pat McCrory has signed into law a bill spelling out how wind farms can operate. He says it will help diversify the state’s energy supply and boost the economy. The law creates a framework for how companies may obtain wind energy permits from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. It requires public hearings so opponents can raise concerns. And it lets regulators deny an application if a project could adversely affect the environment, private landowners or military operations. … McCrory also signed a bill that makes it a crime not to report a missing child.