The Big 4-0 for No. 88 a.k.a. Dale Jr. a.k.a. Junior from Mooresville; and It's Been Reason for Me to Celebrate

I had the privilege of writing about Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s newest milestone for the October issue of Charlotte magazine. Titled "Junior Turns 40," it's about, well, Junior turning 40 years old. But if you've gotten the chance to read the eight-page feature (the print issue came out about three weeks ago, the story went online two weeks ago), then you know the story is about much more than a birthday. It's about how much Dale Jr. means to this area (he's got a bar at the EpiCentre, his dad's got a roller coaster at Carowinds, to put each of them mildly), how much this area means to him (he still resides in his hometown of Mooresville), and sprinkled in between are anecdotes about how he's worth $300 million, has his name attached to more brands than Disney, and has been the most popular driver for more years than you have fingers.

Photo by Logan Cyrus for Charlotte magazine.

But if you've paid close attention to the story, then you've also realized that it's both a reflection of how Junior has grown and evolved over the years, just as any of us hope we are as we reach our 30th, 40th, 50th birthdays, etc.; and how the Charlotte area, including Mooresville, has grown and evolved with him. And, as the story illustrates, he's such a down-to-earth, humble person, that he'll even stop outside of his favorite hometown pizza joint to help a lady whose car won't start.

Since the story came out, I've received some of the most flattering feedback I've ever gotten during my career as a writer. One of the best came in the form of a tweet from Dale Jr.'s sister, Kelley Earnhardt:

@Hendrick88Team @CharlotteMag @DaleJr honestly best article I've ever read

— Kelley Earnhardt (@EarnhardtKelley) September 24, 2014

And I've received several emails from readers, expressing how much they enjoyed the story. Here are a couple:

Great work on the Dale Jr. piece. I really liked the ending about the billboard. Among many great insights, this was the best: "For years, Dale Earnhardt Jr. was famous because of his father. But time does funny things, and now that he’s older, the shift is apparent: These youngsters standing in front of the car only know who Senior is because they know who Junior is." I'm fairly certain every NASCAR writer is going to write a "Dale Jr. is 40" piece and frankly they shouldn't bother after this one.

I wanted to take the time to say I thoroughly enjoyed the recent article you authored about Dale Earnhardt Jr. Given his iconic stature, there is no shortage of articles about Dale, but there is a shortage of well written or insightful articles. I found yours to be both. You touched upon so many facets and nuances that I believe others miss, or dismiss, in their attempts to grab headlines or create them with their words.

Okay, enough of my victory lap (pun intended).

Now, Junior's big day is upon us. His birthday is this Friday, October 10, the day before he competes in the Bank of America 500 at Charlotte Motor Speedway, his hometown track. My guess is that what he wants most for his birthday is to win the race Saturday night, to put himself in better contention to win the 2014 Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup (the championship), which would be his first.

But he's probably been celebrating all week. According to a post on Whisky River's Facebook page, there was a surprise party for him Monday night:

Post by Whisky River CLT.

And even Dale Jr. shared a photo from the private party:

This is what a @mattgood @twentyonepilots combo will deliver. #Epic40th pic.twitter.com/jt9VNMK51I

— Dale Earnhardt Jr. (@DaleJr) October 7, 2014

On Thursday, his girlfriend Amy Reimann is competing in the Better Half Dash, the annual fundraising competition in which the wives and girlfriends of several NASCAR drivers, crew chiefs, and team owners drive race cars. You can bet Dale Jr. will be there to cheer on his better half. And on Saturday afternoon, the speedway is throwing the Dale Jr. Birthday Pit Party.

And just imagine all of the celebrations we aren't privy to! Though, Dale Jr. has revealed some of his gifts on Twitter, @DaleJr.

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Happy 25th Birthday Cam Newton!

Cam Newton turns 25 years old today. We tend to forget how young these star athletes are, when we're creating high demands and expectations of them on the playing fields and beyond. And Cam is entering his fourth season as the starting quarterback of the Carolina Panthers, of which he's now the de facto leader. Add in that he has his own clothing line, a charitable foundation, and lives in the same Charlotte condo building as Michael Jordan (and he recently began using his Twitter account and joined Instagram), it's safe to say the young man has accomplished a lot in a few years.

Credit: Cam Newton Foundation

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Do You Know Who Billy Graham Is? He Has 'Hope' for You, America

Legendary Christian evangelist Billy Graham turns 95 years old on November 7. And on that night the country will get a televised special from the man who, in his heyday, was referred to as America's pastor. The reason I say in his heyday is because, obviously, he hasn't been as active, vocal, or even made many public appearances over the last several years due to his age and frequent health issues. However, that hasn't stopped U.S. presidents and presidential candidates, as well as many of the country's other most influential people from seeking his counsel.

Credit: myhopewithbillygraham.org

But are young people today interested in what Rev. Graham has to say? We'll find out when "The Cross" airs Thursday, November 7. It's part of the "My Hope America with Billy Graham" initiative that culminates this month. "My Hope America" is Rev. Graham and his Charlotte-based Billy Graham Evangelistic Association's (BGEA) "effort to reach people across the United States with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Following a simple biblical model, [it] combines the impact of video programs with the power of personal relationships. Christians across America will open their homes this November to share the Gospel message with friends, family, colleagues, and neighbors using one of several new evangelistic programs featuring life-changing testimonies and powerful messages from Billy Graham," according to its website.

"The Cross" television special will feature scenes from an evening event with Rev. Graham that took place last week at The Billy Graham Library. In this minute-long trailer for the special, it's clear that they want their message to reach young people. It, for example, features Christian hip hop artist Lecrae (did you know there was such a thing?) and rocker-turned-Christian-singer Lacey Sturm.

An article published by Reuters yesterday gives an insightful look into what the Grahams, including the elder's son Franklin, are seeking to accomplish with "My Hope America." The article briefly describes the impact Rev. Graham and BGEA have had over the last seven decades but also cites studies such as a 2005 Gallup Poll that "revealed that 45 percent of young adults were not familiar with Billy Graham. And one third of adults under 30 consider themselves religiously unaffiliated, according to a 2012 Pew Research Center report."

Also as a part of "My Hope America," as the article points out, Christian believers from more than 24,000 U.S. churches will invite people into their homes and congregations to learn about their faith from Rev. Graham.

Visit myhopewithbillygraham.org for more details, and watchbillygraham.com for TV listings for the special. "The Cross" is scheduled to air nationwide on FOX News on November 7 at 10 p.m. It will also be broadcast on several faith-based networks as well as local TV stations around the country over a four-day period, including November 8, 7:30 p.m. on WBTV, Charlotte's CBS station.

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Happy Birthday Anthony Foxx. The Best Is Yet to Come for You--and Hopefully Charlotte

Charlotte Mayor Anthony Foxx turns 42 years old today. If you've even slightly paid attention to news in Charlotte over the last 24 to 36 hours then you know that Foxx has been nominated by President Obama to become the next U.S. Secretary of Transportation, to replace outgoing secretary Ray LaHood.

Credit: whitehouse.gov

Foxx as Obama's latest cabinet pick is being written and opined about everywhere. Here are a few links to what the national media is saying:

What You Need to Know About Obama Transportation Pick Anthony Foxx - National Journal

Meet Anthony Foxx, Obama's Next Transportation Secretary - The Atlantic

President Obama announces Anthony Foxx pick - Politico

Obama Diversity Promise Makes Second Cabinet Like First - Bloomberg Businessweek

Locally, The Charlotte Observer has done great reporting since news leaked on Sunday that Obama would nominate Foxx the following day. The story is the main feature on today's front page.

So, you have plenty you can read up on about Foxx as far as news is concerned. Here's what I'd like to add.

In 2009, when Foxx was running for his first term as mayor of Charlotte, I wrote here on Grown People Talking: "10 Reasons Why Anthony Foxx Will Be Charlotte's Next Mayor." In that blog post, the first nine reasons I listed described the attributes that made Foxx very electable, the strength of his campaign, the political climate in 2009, and even a couple of comparisons of him to Obama. Then in the tenth point on my list, I said:

He's a Charlotte native with a terrific story. Not only do we not encounter many Charlotte natives these days (I always say that only 2 out of every 10 people I meet in Charlotte are actually from here), but we have even fewer in leadership positions. Foxx has a great story that shows what a person can accomplish with hard work, talent, and ambition. As he remarked last evening, he grew up in a neighborhood off Beatties Ford Road, where he wasn't expected to succeed. After graduating from West Charlotte High School, he then went on to graduate from Davidson College (where he served as student body president), and got his law degree from NYU. He's been a successful attorney for the last 13 years, and a city councilman since 2005.

Today, Washington's gain is Charlotte's loss. Foxx was a great fit as this city's mayor. You might not agree with all of his policies, but you have to acknowledge that not many people actually care as much about this city as he does, or are as personally invested as he is. I ran into, met with, interviewed, and wrote about Foxx several times over the next four years, including that time I proclaimed "Mayor Foxx Is Charlotte."

I had plenty of interaction with him during the year I wrote The DNC In The CLT blog about the 2012 Democratic National Convention, including this Q&A published last May and the video below I captured of a DNC press conference last April when Foxx welcomed the mayor of Los Angeles to the city.

Then when I ran into Mayor Foxx about three weeks ago, after speculation had been swirling that he was being considered for the Obama cabinet position, after he announced that he wouldn't seek reelection as mayor, we had this brief exchange:

Ran into @mayorfoxx last night. He said "Jarvis, writing about anything exciting?" I said "Not as exciting as what you have going on." #CLT
— Jarvis Holliday (@HollidayInk) April 12, 2013

At 42 years old, and with the opportunity to serve in a high-profile position in the Obama Administration for the next three and a half years, Foxx's national political success will be his for the taking. And for all the kids attending west Charlotte schools today, who may feel like they have too many obstacles to overcome to be successful in life, they can point to a guy in the White House who used to attend schools along the Beatties Ford Road corridor too.

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Michael Jordan Is 50; We're Getting Old, Yet We Still Want to Be Like Mike

I'm an '80s baby, which means I was born at the greatest time ever. I grew up listening to music by--and trying to emulate the dance moves of--Michael Jackson. I watched great television shows created by Bill Cosby. I ate sweetened cereal that came with prizes in the box, and sat down with a big bowl in front of Saturday morning cartoons. I witnessed some of the greatest movies come to the big screen, and when my parents bought a VCR sometime around 1985, we watched many of those movies at home on our floor-model TV. But of all the entertaining marvels I was fortunate to have witnessed because of the era in which I was born, there are two that top them all: the aforementioned Michael Jackson and the other MJ: Michael Jordan.

Jordan turned 50 today, which you already know, sparking reflection throughout the sports and non-sports world. It's only fitting that his 50th birthday falls on the same day as this year's NBA All-Star Game (he threw a star-studded bash Friday night in Houston), and that sports news giant ESPN has spent the past two weeks counting down to this momentous occasion.

Sports analysts, reporters, bloggers, and anyone with a social media account have opined on what Jordan has meant to the game of basketball, sports as a whole, pop culture, fashion, and to their individual lives. He's widely considered the greatest basketball player of all time, and he's the player every great player after him is and will be forever compared to, i.e. Kobe Bryant and LeBron James.

For me, personally, it's kind of hard to believe that Jordan is now 50 years old. But contrary to the media reports as to how he's dealing with growing older, we're the ones who are actually getting old. When you're as great and legendary as Jordan--and for him to have played his entire professional career at a time that allowed it to be captured on video--the stories that will be told about him 50 years from now will be supplemented by highlight films of him hitting game-winning shots, dunking over star players, waving championship trophies in the air, gliding from the free throw line, endorsing major brands and products, and releasing sneakers that bear his name and that people rush to the stores to buy years after he's quit playing.

I was a Chicago Bulls fan growing up, even though I'd never been to Chicago nor had I seen the Bulls play in person. I was a fan because as I was learning about the game of basketball and watching NBA games on TV for the first time, No. 23 was mesmerizing us. When my brother and I and numerous friends would play countless games on our backyard court, we all dreamed of playing like Jordan. When he retired for the first time in 1993, I was devastated. And when Jordan returned to the NBA in the spring of 1995, I remember his first game back being on a Sunday and how I couldn't wait to get home from church and watch the nationally televised game. Then the following season, when the Bulls won a record 72 games and embarked on their second three-peat, I couldn't wait to watch every game I could. His absence during his year-and-a-half-long retirement taught me not to take witnessing greatness for granted.

No other athlete, entertainer, or icon, for that matter, has had as large an impact on culture the way Jordan has. I was happy when he became majority owner of the Charlotte Bobcats a few years ago and made Charlotte his part-time home, just so I could have that association with him (and be able point to his Uptown condo when I have guests visiting from out of town). Now, Jordan needs to prove he can build a winning NBA franchise as an executive.

I'm sure Jordan feels he has a lot left to accomplish in life, and why wouldn't he? But regardless, he's already left an indelible mark on the world and hundreds of millions of people. We all want to witness greatness, even if it's from a distance. Or for the once-in-a-lifetime chance to come face to face with it, like some kid named Justin Bieber had a few weeks ago.

Justin Bieber poses with Michael Jordan, backstage at his concert at Time Warner Cable Arena in January. Credit: instagram.com/charlottebobcats

I have three teen-aged nephews who are between two and four years younger than Bieber, and like him they're too young to remember the peak of Jordan's playing days. But they all know who he is, and they all want to wear his sneakers. Decades later, we all still want to be like Mike.

Below are links to a few of the many recent news stories and reflections on Michael Jordan's legacy now that he's turned 50 years old.

50 memories of Michael Jordan - Chicago Tribune

Michael Jordan's 50 SI Covers - Sports Illustrated

In Chicago, Especially, Jordan Still Reigns Supreme - The New York Times

Michael Jordan's Influence Praised By J. Cole, Kobe Bryant - MTV News

MJ at 50: A look at Michael Jordan's final All-Star Game performance - CBS Sports

Celebrating Michael Jordan's 50th Birthday with His Top 50 Career Moments - Bleacher Report

Michael Jordan's 50th birthday stirs memories of his basketball greatness - New York Post

Michael Jordan Top 50 All Time Plays - YouTube/Meir21

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Anthony Hamilton's Got Them J's, Up for Two GRAMMYs

Charlotte-native and platinum-selling recording artist Anthony Hamilton was stuntin' on 'em this week. He celebrated his 42nd birthday a few days ago and took to Instagram to show off the gifts he received from Jordan Brand, the lucrative division of Nike, run by Michael Jordan, and maker of the forever-popular Air Jordan sneaker. A-Ham has had a friendship with MJ for several years now, something he attributes to their "North Carolina connection." Jordan's company sent over a dozen pairs of retro Air Jordans, or J's as they're known in the streets, as well as a nice watch for Anthony's birthday. The company has also thrown parties for him in the past (see here and here).

That watch reminds me of one of my favorite lyrics from rapper Sauce Money, years ago: "Since my watch was a gift, there's no better time than the present."

The good times continue for A-Ham. He's nominated for two GRAMMY Awards this year: Best R&B Song for "Pray for Me" and Best R&B Album for Back To Love. He's up against R. Kelly, Robert Glasper, Tamia, and Tyrese in the album category. The 55th GRAMMY Awards air live Sunday, February 10, 8 p.m. on CBS.

Photos credit: instagram.com/anthonyhamiltonofficial

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Happy Birthday Cam Newton!

Cam Newton turned 23 years old today. It has to feel awesome to be that young, that rich, and that successful with such a bright future ahead.

The Carolina Panthers quarterback said and did all the right things his first year in the NFL and in Charlotte. I'm not sure if he's celebrating his birthday here or in his hometown of Atlanta, but I would think he would want to spend time breaking in the condo at The Trust he recently purchased in Uptown.

Cupcrazed Cakery in Fort Mill made these cupcakes in honor of Cam's birthday.

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Happy Birthday Anthony Hamilton and J. Cole!

Singer Anthony Hamilton and rapper J. Cole have more than just their musical talents and North Carolina roots in common. They also share January 28 as their birthdays. Happy birthday, fellas, and keep repping for N.C.--Charlotte and Fayetteville, respectively!

J. Cole turns 27 today. Another important date on his calendar is February 12 at the Grammy Awards (8 p.m., CBS), where he's nominated for Best New Artist along with The Band Perry, Bon Iver, Nicki Minaj, and Skrillex. Anthony is 41 today and while he already has a Grammy trophy on his mantle, he's performing this year at the Grammy In The Schools Live! concert February 8 at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles.

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'Cotton Fields to Skyscrapers' Keeps Telling Charlotte's Story

I always say that eight out of 10 people I meet in Charlotte aren't from here. I can't say that my 80 percent theory is scientific, but I'm sure you would agree that Charlotte has a lot of newcomers and transplants. I've lived here for almost six years now and because of the work I do I've gotten to know the city really well. But it's easy to get caught up in the present and future and not know much about a place's history. There's no better way to learn Charlotte's story than by visiting the Cotton Fields to Skyscrapers exhibit at Levine Museum of the New South. The award-winning exhibit that debuted in 2001 has just been renovated and updated to reflect the past decade.

Levine Museum tells the history of the New South, which is defined as the period from the end of the Civil War (1865) to today. Cotton Fields to Skyscrapers is its permanent exhibit, located on the first floor, so if you've ever visited the museum you've likely journeyed through it. It's a large exhibit that literally guides you through Charlotte's history from when cotton fields dominated the landscape in the late 1800s and early 1900s to how the economy changed that eventually led to the businesses that built the skyscrapers we see in Uptown today. Or as the museum folks say, it goes from "farm to factory to finance." And along the way, you experience cool artifacts and features such as equipment from a cotton mill, a replica of an old Belk department store, a lunch counter that tells the story of Civil Rights Movement-era sit-ins, the history of integrating schools, the plight of factory workers, how Duke Energy became the largest utility company in the country, and more.

Levine Museum has been celebrating its 20th anniversary since the beginning of the year, and things ramped up this week with an elaborate and festive gala, "Taste of Time," on Thursday that drew hundreds of people, including some of the city's most prominent figures. This week also saw the reopening of Cotton Fields to Skyscrapers, which underwent a three-month renovation. It now contains an additional 750 feet of gallery space, primarily comprised of the new end section, titled "Whirlwind of Growth, 1970s-2010s." In this section, which largely reflects the changes Charlotte has experienced since 2001, you see how the big banks got bigger--Bank of America and Wachovia--and how the latter was acquired by Wells Fargo. You also see how Charlotte has become one of the South's most diverse cities.

A replica of the Bank of America Corporate Center stands tall in Cotton Fields to Skyscrapers.

The exhibit also now features many new interactive components with touchscreen technology. There's the "Remix History" feature, where you can play with digital graphics on flatscreens to manipulate historic photos (it reminds of how the folks at CNN slide things around on their big screens when telling the news). There's also "Picture Yourself in History," where you sit in front of a green screen and have your picture taken to place yourself into an historic moment. The computer allows you to email the photo to yourself so you can have a keepsake (look for these to pop up on people's Facebook pages).

But before you get to all of the cool new stuff at the end of the exhibit, you get to experience a new 10-minute intro film. Sitting in the theater at the entrance to the exhibit, you can watch a video that I guarantee will tell you some stuff about Charlotte you never knew. But you'll likely recognize the names of the voices narrating the film--former Bank of America chief Hugh McColl, NASCAR pioneer Humpy Wheeler, and radio personality Ramona Holloway.

On Tuesday I attended a media tour for the reopening of Cotton Fields to Skyscrapers. Below is a few minutes of video I captured that showcases the new section at the end. Levine Museum historian Tom Hanchett points out some of the new features; then I wander off a little on my own.

You should make sure to check it out for yourself, which you can do tomorrow (Sunday, May 1) during the museum's 20th Anniversary Community Celebration. The free event takes place 12-5 p.m. and you'll be treated to exhibit tours, music and dance performances, multimedia art, photography, family activities, and birthday cake. Levine Museum of the New South, 200 E. Seventh St., 704-333-1887, www.museumofthenewsouth.org.

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Third Time's the Charm: 'Grown People Talking' Celebrates Another Year

Grown People Talking turned three years old today. Unlike some milestones, it actually does feel like a significant amount of time has passed since I launched this blog on April 11, 2008. I guess it's because I've chronicled so many experiences, moments, and topics, which almost always pertain to Charlotte. And I've had a lot of fun doing it, which is why I believe I've continued to keep it going whereas I've seen plenty of other blogs come and go.

Over the past year, some things have changed however. Most significantly, in December I began writing a nightlife blog for Charlotte magazine called "Dusk Till Dawn". That's been so far so good as well, but because of it I don't blog on GPT as much as I have in the past and is why you don't find much about nightlife on here anymore. But when you add up the number of posts between the two sites, I'm probably blogging as much as ever. It's been nice to have a blog with a singular focus, which is what DTD allows me to do as I opine on Charlotte nightlife ranging from happy hour to late-night. If you haven't been reading it, you might want to if you're looking to navigate the party and social scene in this city. And here on GPT, I pretty much write about everything else related to Charlotte: sports, music, entertainment, arts, education, business, politics, philanthropy, community issues, and more.

From the beginning of GPT, I've blogged about what I want, when I want, which is the kind of creative control most creative people love to have. It's a great balance to my "day job" as a freelance writer when I'm writing stories that first begin as an idea I usually pitch to an editor, which he/she must first approve of before I proceed to write the story, that he/she then edits or asks me to revise. I respect the process, though, because it usually makes the story better, but sometimes it's just good to say what you want, how you want. And since day one, this blog has helped me become a better freelance writer, I think, because it keeps me plugged into the city and people I cover in between the articles that appear in monthly magazines.

But while there are some selfish reasons as to why I maintain Grown People Talking, there are also reasons I do it that I think others appreciate. I often get emails from readers who thank me for keeping them informed on what's going on in Charlotte and for adding my perspective. And I especially take pride in being able to write about a community event or nonprofit organization, and do a small part in helping spread their message and perhaps be the reason a few more people showed up to volunteer at an event.

GPT is getting more traffic than ever, so that's more motivation for me to continue it. Like I do each year, below I've listed the top-five blog posts that received the most page views during the past year. In parenthesis are the dates the articles were originally posted, and I measured the traffic from April 11, 2010 to April 10, 2011, which is for the last twelve months. So when you take that into consideration, it's remarkable that interest in Sonya Curry continues to lead the way after more than two years and that the Sun Drop post ranks so high after being up less than a month. According to Google Analytics, 45 percent of my traffic comes from search engines, and there are just certain topics and names that draw people to the site.

1. Two Things I Realized About Sonya Curry (February 13, 2009)
2. CIAA 2011 Parties and Events: The List (January 17, 2011)
3. Sun Drop Is Dropping It Like It's Hot in Funny Commercial (March 15, 2011)
4. Charlotte's Kendra James Is a 'Bad Girl' (December 2, 2009)
5. Facebook Campaign to Bring Jacinda Back to 'The Beat' (April 29, 2010)

Cheers to another great year as I celebrate this third birthday! And may the best be yet to come. Thank you for your continued support.

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The Best Picnic Spot in Charlotte

Friday was my birthday. Yes, I've stopped celebrating--it only lasted through the weekend. But I wanted to tell you about the great evening my girlfriend, Andrea, planned for me on Friday. She arranged a private picnic for the two of us at VanLandingham Estate and not only was it picture perfect, but you can do it too.

It's something like a best kept secret that this historic bed and breakfast caters private picnics on its beautiful grounds. Andrea called ahead early in the week to inquire about the menus offered (she even stopped by to see what spot she wanted). When we arrived at 6 p.m., all we had to do was pick up our fully packed basket, wine chiller, and blanket. Then we sat down in a shaded area near the pond. The weather was perfect for it.

The basket was packed with five courses and a bottle of wine. We were nearly full before even eating the main course (a turkey, brie and pepperoncini panini), and although there was a dessert for each of us we only had enough room in the belly to split one. (Plus, I had a yellow cake with chocolate icing--my favorite--waiting at home that Andrea made for me earlier that day.)

Click here for more details on the picnics offered at VanLandingham Estate.

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It's My Birthday!

So this is what 30 feels like, huh? I ain't tripping. My 20s were great, I'm grateful to see another year, and I'm excited about what this next decade holds. Happy birthday to my younger brother (by eight minutes) Marvis. My (our) birthday is today, but we're partying it up tomorrow night. I've invited my closest family, friends, and colleagues and I'm looking forward to us having a good time. Always make time to celebrate life and those who are a part of it!

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Fantasia Holds Big Birthday Shindig at Her Home

Fantasia Barrino turned 26 Wednesday--you might've seen her on BET's 106 & Park that day where they presented her with a birthday cake after she premiered her video for "Bittersweet." And Tasia kept the celebration going with a party at her Charlotte home Friday. As you can see in these camera phone pics below, VH1 cameras were there (she's taping season two of Fantasia For Real) as was fellow R&B star Anthony Hamilton.

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Kourtney Kardashian Blogs About Her Weekend in Charlotte

Kourtney Kardashian and her fiancé Scott Disick were in Charlotte during Memorial Day weekend, and Kourtney has written about it today on her website. They partied at Butter NC that Friday night where it was advertised that Scott would be celebrating his 27th birthday. The couple brought their five-month-old son on the trip (not to the club, of course) and among the highlights Kourtney notes is eating at Chick-Fil-A. "We were all dying over the chicken sandwiches with pickles...yum!"

Click here to read about the Kardashians' experience and see photos from their night.

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Terrible Twos: 'Grown People Talking' Another Year

I realize that I have a lot going on, but I can't believe I almost forgot my birthday. Actually, the birthday of my blog, Grown People Talking. GPT turned two years old today--I launched this site April 11, 2008. So here, on April 11, 2010 at 10-something at night, I'd like to briefly reflect on my past year of blogging.

(I borrowed this cool image from a fellow blogger).

I tend to blog a lot about famous people visiting Charlotte, people from Charlotte who are becoming famous, when a cool place opens or goes out of business, when Charlotte gets an interesting top ranking on a cities list, as well as when this city is the focus of a national story regarding a certain trend. And then there's the shameless self-promotion when I post links to articles I've written for magazines and newspapers. Admittedly (and regrettably), I've slacked on my posting of Events for the Week, which, when I do it lately, has been Events for the Weekend. I have had several GPT readers scold me about this and I plan to get back to posting events consistently.

Like I did last year, below are the top-five blog posts that received the most page views during the last twelve months:

1. Two Things I Realized About Sonya Curry (February 13, 2009)
2. My First Time: Club 935 (January 11, 2009)
3. History Channel Profiles Hidden Valley Kings (April 10, 2009)
4. The List: 2010 CIAA Events and Parties (February 2, 2010)
5. Charlotte's Kendra James Is a 'Bad Girl' (December 2, 2009)

I hope I'm able to continue to find the time to blog on this site, and I hope you'll continue to find the interest to read it. Cheers!

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Happy Birthday Anthony Hamilton; Good Luck at the Grammys!

R&B singer Anthony Hamilton is celebrating his birthday today and he has a lot to be thankful for. I sent A-Ham a text this morning wishing him a happy b-day and asking him how things are going.

"This is an amazing day for me," he replied. "It's my birthday and I'm in L.A. readying for my party tonight that Brand Jordan and Michael are throwing for me. God is great."

So not only is Michael Jordan throwing a party tonight for Hamilton, 39, but this is a busy week for the Charlotte native. This is Grammy Week, which means there are tons of celebrity and music industry events going on in Los Angeles leading up to Sunday's show (8 p.m., CBS).


Hamilton, who won his first ever Grammy last year after receiving several nominations over the years, is nominated for three Grammy Awards this year:

-Best Male R&B Vocal Performance for "The Point Of It All," the title track from his latest album.

-Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance for "Soul Music," the song he performed on the Soul Men Original Motion Picture Soundtrack.

-Best R&B Album for The Point Of It All.

You can see a full list of Grammy categories and nominations by visiting www.grammy.com/nominees.

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This Isn't CLT, but Happy Birthday Jay-Z!

The Greatest Rapper of All Time, King of New York, Young Hov, Lucky Lefty, Jigga, Jay-Z, Shawn Carter turns 40 today. And hopefully now the rest of hip-hop will grow up.

Roc4Life.com put together this great slideshow from the legendary-still-hottest-rapper-in-the-game's career. (Can you tell I'm a fan?)



I could recite any number of Jay-Z's lyrics, but the one that comes to mind is: "Being broke is childish and I'm quite grown." That's a 1997 throwback, evidence to how long he's been at the top of his game.

Now the owner of the 40/40 nightclubs is 40 himself. And he's got Beyonce to sing happy birthday to him. Makes getting old something to look forward to.

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Events for the Week: August 23-29

Your best weekly list for parties, nightlife, social, and cultural events in Charlotte. This isn’t intended to be a complete list of everything that's going on, but instead are the events GPT recommends.

Wednesday, August 26

Pop Life (weekly event)
It’s the most popular social networking event on a Wednesday night. Starts after work but runs late. Various types of people pop in and out throughout the night so you never know who you’ll run into. Music by top DJs. Presented by Creative Loafing and The Sol Kitchen. 6 p.m.-1 a.m. Free. Apostrophe Lounge, 1440 S. Tryon St. www.apostrophelounge.com.

The R.E.A.L. Empowerment Pen Series
This after-work networking event is structured to provide professionals with an array of career and entrepreneurial opportunities. This week’s featured speaker is Charlotte mayoral candidate Anthony Foxx. The event will also include representatives from the Urban League of Central Carolinas, hiring managers, and consultants. 6:30 p.m. Free. Loft 1523, 1523 Elizabeth Ave. www.realempowerment.org.

Thursday, August 27

Alive After Five at EpiCentre (weekly event)
This week’s featured bands are Mr. Potato Head (party band) performing on the rooftop stage, and Déjà vu (beach music and oldies) playing on the courtyard stage. There will be plenty of drink tents scattered throughout. Wristbands also get you into Blackfinn, Whisky River, Suite, and StrikeCity. 5-9:30 p.m. Free. The EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St. www.aliveafterfiveatepicentre.com.

Politicking Part I
Learn more about Charlotte’s political scene and meet some of the candidates running for local office. Network while enjoying food and drink specials ($1.95 appetizers and half off drinks). Brought to you by The Friends of Nicole Hudson, candidate for Charlotte Mecklenburg School Board District 3. 6-9:30 p.m. $10 donation requested (campaign contribution). Chima Brazilian Steakhouse, 139 S. Tryon St.

ROCK * IT Thursdays
Charlotte has another new nightclub in Uptown. Luna Lounge opened last week in the former location of Coyote Ugly. This Thursday night party is your chance to check out the posh new venue (owned by partners from the Sunset Club and Kiss Lounge). 9 p.m. Cost varies. For free tickets, email mouzakitis.constantine@gmail.com. Luna Lounge, 521 N. College St. www.lunacharlotte.com.

BlackBerry Thursdays (weekly event)
Join the urban elite in a business casual environment, while rocking the night away to the sounds of hip-hop, R&B, old-school, neo-soul, dancehall, and even top 40. Drink specials include $2 vodkas and $4 Hennessey, and complimentary appetizers catered by Taste of Elegance. Music by DJ Live. Win prizes provided by Verizon Wireless. Presented by Working Women Entertainment. 9 p.m. Free. Urban Affairs (formerly Rustic Martini), 616 N. Tryon St. www.drinksonbigmike.com.

Friday, August 28

SEC Alumni Kick Off 2009
Kick off the college football season with a happy hour that’s bringing together all SEC alumni in the Charlotte area, including the following schools: South Carolina (Go Gamecocks!), Florida, Arkansas, Georgia, Miss St., Auburn, Vanderbilt, Tennessee, Kentucky, Ole Miss, Alabama, and LSU. Plenty of drink specials: $2 Beer of the Month, $2 well drinks, $3 middle- to top-shelf liquor, and $4 wine specials; and food provided. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Dixie’s Tavern, 301 E. Seventh St. www.dixiescharlotte.com.

Friday Afterwork Rendezvous (weekly event)
End your workweek on a high note at this networking party, held at a different venue each week. Enjoy drink and food specials while listening to live music. Presented by Talk of the Town. 6-11 p.m. Free. Apostrophe Lounge, 1440 S. Tryon St. www.apostrophelounge.com.

Ballantyne Nightlife Crawl
See what’s poppin’ on the Southside during this second Ballantyne bar crawl as you’re transported to Town Tavern, City Tavern, On the Roxx, O’Shea’s, and a private party at LA East. Beer will be served on the party bus. 6:30 p.m. $10. Ballantyne. Register at www.bandtastic.com.

Hysteria Fridays Hosted by D. Woods
Meet the former Danity Kane member turned solo artist. Music by DJ Flemingo. 9:30 p.m. $10; ladies free before 11:30 p.m. Décor 1202, 1202 Charlottetowne Ave.

Saturday, August 29

Cedric the Entertainer
See this King of Comedy perform live, along with opening comedians J.J. and Malik S. Hosted by Tone-X. Doors open 7 p.m., show starts 8 p.m. $39.50-$54.50. Bojangles’ Coliseum, 2700 E. Independence Blvd. www.bojanglescoliseum.com.

Reel Goodflix Screening Series
This new monthly film event showcases independent cinema with food, drinks, and a party following the movie. This first installment features L.A. Proper, a comedy about a multi-ethnic group of friends looking for love, sex, work, and happiness during the long days and short nights in Los Angeles. L.A. Proper, which was written and directed by former Charlottean Barry Canty, is the winner of the Heineken Red Star Filmmaker Award for Innovation, Originality, and Vision. 9 p.m. $17 in advance, $20 at the door. Carolina Actors Studio Theatre, 1118 Clement Ave. www.nccast.com.

Happy Birthday to Michael Jackson, Pop Life, and Apostrophe
Celebrate the King of Pop’s life and legacy along with the two-year celebration of Pop Life and one-year of Apostrophe Lounge. Music by DJ Frase and DJ DR. 9 p.m. Free. Apostrophe Lounge, 1440 S. Tryon St. www.apostrophelounge.com.

Marquee Saturdays—Martini Madness Edition
It’s Charlotte’s newest and hottest Saturday night party at this newly revamped nightclub. Enjoy the large dance floor, plentiful seating, and large outdoor patio at this upscale party. This week features the launch of a new flavor of Three Olives vodka, which will be served for free 9-11 p.m. Presented by Sleeping Giant Productions. 9 p.m. Cost varies. To get on the guest list, email marqueesaturdays@haloclt.com. Halo, inside the N.C. Music Factory, 820 Hamilton St. www.haloclt.com.

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Events for the Week: August 16-22

Your best weekly list for parties, nightlife, social, and cultural events in Charlotte. This isn’t intended to be a complete list of everything that's going on, but instead are the events GPT recommends.

Tuesday, August 18

Tone-X and Friends (weekly event)
Come laugh at the jokes and skits by Power 98’s Tone-X, Chris “Funnyman” Robinson, and other comedians. Music by DJ Stacey Blackman. 8 p.m. $10 in advance, $15 at the door. Skandalos, 5317 E. Independence Blvd. www.myspace.com/tonexandfriends.

Wednesday, August 19

Pop Life (weekly event)
It’s the most popular social networking event on a Wednesday night. Starts after work but runs late. Varying types of people pop in and out throughout the night so you never know who you’ll run into. Music by top DJs. Presented by Creative Loafing and The Sol Kitchen. 6 p.m.-1 a.m. Free. Apostrophe Lounge, 1440 S. Tryon St. www.apostrophelounge.com.

Thursday, August 20

Jarvis Holliday’s Birthday
This “National Holliday” should be celebrated by all. Shout-out to my twin brother and all my fellow Leos! If you see me out, buy me a drink! www.grownpeopletalking.com.

Alive After Five at EpiCentre (weekly event)
This week’s featured bands are Peace And Love performing on the rooftop stage, and The Kays playing on the courtyard stage. There will be plenty of drink tents scattered throughout. Wristbands also get you into Blackfinn, Whisky River, Suite, and StrikeCity. 5-9:30 p.m. Free. The EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St. www.aliveafterfiveatepicentre.com.

Cufflinks and Cocktails
Presented by Charlotte’s Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity alumni, this event is held at a different bar each month. Come mingle with a group of well-dressed professionals, from 20- to 40-somethings. Live music by Bayou Butch Lucas. Drink and appetizer specials will be served (Long Island Iced Tea, margaritas, and Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka for $5; half-price appetizers). 6-10 p.m. Free. Villa Antonio Ristorante, 4707 South Blvd. www.cufflinksandcocktails.com.

Annual Back to School Unwind Happy Hour
Mix and mingle with a professional crowd, and bring school supplies to be donated to area schools. Presented by Pinkies Up Productions. 6-10 p.m. Free. Bentley’s RSVP, 305 W. Fourth St. www.pinkiesupproductions.com.

Community Cinema Screening: Chicago 10
When anti-Vietnam War protestors clashed with the police during the Democratic National Convention in 1968, the resulting Chicago Conspiracy Trial was a media circus that pitted courtroom authorities against movement leaders. Blending original animation and rare archival footage, Chicago 10 tells the story of 10 young Americans who dared to take a stand. Presented by GenerationEngage. 6:30-9 p.m. Free. PLCMC Main Library, Francis Auditorium, 310 N. Tryon St. www.generationengage.org/state/chltt.

Friday, August 21

Friday Afterwork Rendezvous (weekly event)
End your workweek on a high note at this networking party, held at a different venue each week. Enjoy drink and food specials while listening to live jazz and music from a DJ. Presented by Talk of the Town. 6-11 p.m. Free. House of Jazz, 8630 University Executive Park Dr. www.thehouseofjazz.net.

The Jonas Brothers World Tour 2009
They're one of the biggest groups in music today--and they're brothers (with family ties to Charlotte). Opening acts include Jordin Sparks, Honor Society, and Wonder Girls. 7 p.m. $29-$89. Time Warner Cable Arena, 333 E. Trade St. www.timewarnercablearena.com.

Drinks @ Kiss
This monthly “all night happy hour” attracts great crowds to one of the city’s trendiest lounges. Featuring complimentary Nuvo drinks for the first 50 people and several other drinks specials. DJ HeartBreak will be playing the best in R&B, hip-hop, and reggae. 10 p.m. Free before 11 p.m. with RSVP. $10 and up after. Kiss Lounge, 204 W. Woodlawn Rd. www.mingleberry.com/drinks.

Saturday, August 22

4th Annual Battle Slam Jam
Witness the baddest and best urban artists, athletes, and professional performers from North Carolina and beyond. Battle Slam Jam is an all-inclusive community festival featuring multiple skateboard contests, DJs, live bands, a B-boy contest, graffiti writing, breakdancing, urban freestyle soccer, a Comic Book Corridor, and more. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free for the general public; $10 registration fee for competitors. Grayson Skate Park, 750 Beal St. www.battleslamjam2009.com.

PlayDate Charlotte
Bring out the kid in you. Charlotte has joined the network of more than 30 cities that offer this alternative to typical partying and nightclubbing. Enjoy music and drinks while playing card games, checkers, dominoes, Connect Four, Twister, Monopoly, old-school video games, and more. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. (8 p.m. for advance ticket holders) $10. Tyvola Marriott, 5700 Westpark Dr. www.playdatecharlotte.com.

Marquee Saturdays (weekly event)
It’s Charlotte’s newest and hottest Saturday night party at this newly revamped nightclub. Enjoy the large dance floor, plentiful seating, and large outdoor patio at this upscale party. This week features a tribute to Michael Jackson (10:30 p.m. performance by J. Lucas from L.A.). Music by DJ Complete and DJ R Wonz. Presented by Sleeping Giant Productions. 9 p.m. Cost varies. Halo, inside the N.C. Music Factory, 820 Hamilton St. www.haloclt.com.

Annual Cream and Butter Affair
Building off the success of last year, this party will likely attract hundreds of attractive, well-dressed 20-somethings (and early 30s) once again. Presented by Six Figure Entertainment. 9 p.m. $20 and up ($10 advance tickets have sold out). VIP is available. University Hilton Hotel, 6289 J.M. Keynes Dr. www.sixfigureentertainment.com.

Champagne Wishes
You never really want to miss an opportunity to party at the Sunset Club. Come dressed to impress. Presented by Clique Productions. 10 p.m. $10 and up; ladies free before 11 p.m. Sunset Club, 1820 South Blvd. www.cliqueproductions.com or www.sunsetclubcharlotte.com.

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Events for the Week: April 20-26

Your best weekly list for parties, nightlife, social, and cultural events in Charlotte. This isn’t intended to be a complete list of everything that's going on, but instead are the events GPT recommends.

Wednesday, April 22

Neo Soul Listening Party (weekly event)
This soulful evening is hosted by V101.9 personality Chirl Girl. Featuring live music by Kobi Keys and Company. 6-10 p.m. Free. Utopia Restaurant, 10210 Berkeley Place Dr. www.utopianc.com.

Pop Life (weekly event)
It’s the most popular social networking event on a Wednesday night. Starts after work but runs past midnight. This week is the “Eco-Chic Edition” in celebration of Earth Day and guests are asked to wear green. Music by select DJs. Sponsored this week by Sotac-I. Presented by Creative Loafing and The Sol Kitchen. 6 p.m.-1 a.m. Free. Apostrophe Lounge, 1440 S. Tryon St. www.apostrophelounge.com.

Thursday, April 23

Alive After Five (weekly event)
The newly combined Alive After Five launches at its new home, the EpiCentre. Enjoy live music by Celebration Club and plenty of drinks from cash bars scattered throughout. This will be Charlotte’s largest weekly outdoor party. Wristbands get you into Blackfinn, Whisky River, Suite, and StrikeCity. 5-9:30 p.m. Free. Pavilion at EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St. www.aliveafterfiveatepicentre.com.

Friday, April 24

Friday Afterwork Rendezvous (weekly event)
End your workweek on a high note at this networking party, held at a different venue each week. Enjoy drink and appetizer specials and live music by Peace & Love Jazz Soul Band. DJ Daddy D on the turntables. Presented by Talk of the Town. 6-11 p.m. Free. Utopia Restaurant, 10210 Berkeley Place Dr. www.utopianc.com.

Fall Out Boy and 50 Cent
See rock and hip-hop’s finest in one night. Charlotte is one of only a handful of stops on Fall Out Boy’s Believers Never Die Tour where 50 Cent is performing. 7 p.m. $30. Bojangles' Coliseum (formerly Cricket Arena), 2700 E. Independence Blvd. www.bojanglescoliseum.com.

The Heart of Motown
Join Albert-George Schram, the Charlotte Symphony, and the four-member vocal group Spectrum as they recreate the “Motown Sound.” Spectrum, the country’s leading Motown tribute band, will perform favorites by the Temptations, the Four Tops, the Spinners, and more. Party afterwards at the historic Excelsior Club (921 Beatties Ford Rd.). Sponsored by Opus X. 8 p.m. $35, includes concert ticket and admission to Excelsior. Belk Theater, Blumenthal Performing Arts Center, 130 N. Tryon St. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Spring Bliss
It promises to be a “progressive and exclusive crowd” at Charlotte’s newest nightclub. Music by NYC’s DJ Magic and Power 98’s DJ Danny Diaz. Presented by the Sol Kitchen, Simmons Media, and LV Productions. 9 p.m. Cost varies, ladies free before 11 p.m. Décor 1202, 1202 Charlottetowne Ave. www.thesolkitchen.com.

Yin and Yang Part II: The Black and White Party
Come dressed to impress in your best black and white attire. The party is sure to be live from the bar to the patio and look for many of Charlotte’s movers and shakers among the mostly 30-and-older crowd. Music by DJ C-Rob. Presented by Digital Divas. 10 p.m. $10 in advance, more at the door. Sunset Club, 1820 South Blvd. www.digitaldivasevents.com.

Saturday, April 25

Foreclosure Prevention Event
The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond is partnering with HOPE NOW and NeighborWorks America in sponsoring a public event to address the home foreclosure problem. Homeowners will have the opportunity to meet individually with their mortgage servicer and housing counselors to discuss feasible options to avoid foreclosure. Throughout the day, certified housing counselors will offer educational workshops on foreclosure prevention and credit counseling. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. The Park, 2500 E. Independence Blvd. www.richmondfed.org.

Art and Soul of South End
This annual two-day festival showcases the beauty and culture of historic South End. Enjoy artworks from more than 75 of the region and country’s best artists along with live music and dance and great food from vendors. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Free. A block party follows with performances by Erika Blatnik, Go Go Pilot, Volatile baby, and The Hot House Hefftones. South End, Camden Road from East Boulevard to Tryon Street. Take the light rail. www.artandsoulofsouthend.com.

I.O.U.S.A. Film Screening and Panel Discussion
Join GenerationEngage and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. as they present a screening of I.O.U.S.A., a film that boldly examines the rapidly growing national debt and its consequences for the United States and its citizens. Immediately following the film will be a panel discussion with U.S. Representative Mel Watt; Craig Dipken, associate professor of economics; and Tanya Dial Bethune, Mechanics and Farmers Bank. 4 p.m. Free. Cone Center (room 210), UNC Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd. www.generationengage.org/state/chltt.

Something Green
Part 1 (9-10 p.m.): Get informed through a discussion with local elected officials and experts on opportunities in the Green Economy. Part 2 (10 p.m.-1 a.m.): Party and birthday celebrations for Q92.7’s Ifé Moore, Rod Garvin of GenerationEngage, and Jason Bennett. Music by So So Def’s DJ Avi-X. Arrive early and get a free compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulb that uses 75 percent less energy. Presented by Six Figure Entertainment and GenerationEngage. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Cost varies, reduced admission before 9:30, VIP available. Chima Brazilian Steakhouse, 139 S. Tryon St. www.sixfigureentertainment.com.

Sunday, April 26

Art and Soul of South End
This annual two-day festival showcases the beauty and culture of historic South End. Enjoy artworks from more than 75 of the region and country’s best artists along with live music and dance and great food from vendors. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. South End, Camden Road from East Boulevard to Tryon Street. Take the light rail. www.artandsoulofsouthend.com.

Heaven On Earth: An All White Affair
It’s a party for college students—celebrating the graduating class—and twenty-somethings. Presented by Y.C.F.R. Entertainment. 9 p.m. Free before 10 p.m., $10 and up after. Kiss Lounge, 204 W. Woodlawn Rd. www.myspace.com/ycfr.

SSSHH: Sensual Seduction Sundays at Happy Hour (weekly event)
Enjoy an infusion of open-mic poetry and jazz over candlelight. Hosted by poet Bluz. After-party and dancing follows. Presented by Pink Diamond. 9 p.m. $10. Happy Hour Bar and Lounge, 3603 S. Tryon St. www.pinkdiamondpromo.com.

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