Apparently, the 'Greatest Weekend Ever' Can Be Had in Charlotte and on Lake Norman

Great Clips is holding a contest offering a chance to experience what the world's largest hair salon chain has dubbed the Greatest Weekend Ever. It's a weekend for four in the Charlotte area with NASCAR star drivers Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Kasey Kahne, centered on Dale Jr.'s house on Lake Norman (both guys have homes--mansions, really--in Mooresville).

Credit: Great Clips

Here's the contest in a nutshell:

The winner and three friends will "fly to Charlotte with your buddies and stay at Dale Jr.’s lake house. Swim, relax and chow down. We’re going to throw a finger-lickin’ BBQ party in your honor with Dale Jr., Kasey Kahne and more of the Great Clips racing crew. You and your friends will [also] get VIP passes to two Darlington races so you can see each race from the best seats possible." And to top it off, the winner will also receive a 2014 Chevy Silverado.

The coolest thing, as I've said previously, is the thought that Dale Jr. lives like this all the time. I would even venture to say that he really does have mermaids in his swimming pool. He's a rock star who doesn't play music (at least not professionally, though there is a band named after him) but drives fast cars for a living (a major living). He recently won the Most Popular Driver Award for the 11th consecutive year, presented by the National Motorsports Press Association.

Visit http://bit.ly/GreatestWeekend for complete Greatest Weekend Ever contest details and to enter.

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Personal Look at the Curry Family in Montessori Video

While most of the world knows Sonya Curry as Stephen and Seth's mom, the lady we enjoyed watching on television in the stands at college basketball games, she has an important day job. Aside from being the matriarch of Charlotte's First Family of sports, which also includes husband Dell and daughter Sydel, Sonya is the founder and head of school of the Christian Montessori School at Lake Norman. Because the school is a member of the American Montessori Society, we're treated to a video the society produced, featuring the Curry family discussing how receiving a Montessori education positively impacted their lives.

Photo of a young Curry family, shown in the Montessori video. 

I first became familiar with Montessori schools several years ago, shortly after moving to Charlotte. I was working on a magazine article that led me to learn that Montessori schools, for the most part, allow students to learn at their own pace and there are usually multiple ages placed in a classroom to foster peer learning. In the video, all five of the Currys talk about what they like about Montessori education. But what I think you'll enjoy most is getting a rare glimpse into the personal lives of a family that has been in the public eye for much of the last 20 years, but does their best to keep a relatively low profile outside of their professions.

In describing each of her kids' personalities, Sonya says Steph is really task oriented, Seth is quiet, shy, and reserved, and Sydel is a social butterfly. If you've ever come across Sydel's Twitter, then you know the Elon University freshman volleyball player is social. And I know that the Sonya Curry stans will be happy to see that the hot mom gets a lot of face time in the video.

I learned of this video from a tweet Steph posted yesterday.

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Read About It: Hot Cars On the Lake

I wrote a feature for the July 2013 issue of Lake Norman Magazine, "Get Your Motor Running," that focuses on car dealers and shops in the lake area that sell/build exotic, luxury, and classic cars. We're talking everything from vintage cars from the 1930s to late-model sports cars.

While conducting interviews and doing research for this story, I learned that selling cars on consignment is big business, and that people search all over the world for specific cars. Because of the Internet, car dealers like the ones on Lake Norman are able to sell and ship cars to buyers from anywhere. Yes, a couple of the dealers told me they have people--from the West Coast to the Middle East--buy cars from them online without ever setting foot on the car lot or seeing the cars in person. That's why many of the dealers place detailed info, multiple photos, and sometimes even video of each of these exotic and luxury cars, to give potential buyers a good idea of the quality and appeal of the vehicle.

One of the Lake Norman dealers told me he sold two of the Range Rover Autobiography Ultimate Edition SUVs to a single buyer for $250,000 each. Rolling in it!

The July issue of Lake Norman Magazine is online and on newsstands now.

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Read About It: The Growth of Local MMA

The popularity of mixed martial arts, simply known as MMA, has exploded over the years. UFC fights are more anticipated than heavyweight boxing matches these days (who's the current heavyweight boxing champion anyway?). MMA has really taken off in the Charlotte area, and I was surprised to learn of its growth particularly in the Lake Norman area. You can read about it in the story I wrote, "Tough Enough," for the May issue of Lake Norman Magazine.

I talked to trainers and fighters at The Rock MMA & Fitness Center in Huntersville, the Gracie Jiu Jitsu LKN Academy in Mooresville, and Crossface MMA in Cornelius. And, as you might know, Team R.O.C. in Harrisburg, just north of UNC Charlotte's campus, has produced two UFC fighters, Rodney "Sho Nuff" Wallace and Jordan Rinaldi. But the growth of MMA locally is being spurred largely by people who want to learn the techniques to stay physically fit; not to get kicked and punched in the face.

Rock at the Dock 5
You can watch MMA fighters up close at Rock at the Dock 5, taking place Saturday, May 12 at Queens Landing (1459 River Hwy., Mooresville). It's the fifth installment of the popular fight series put on by Matt Sredzinski, owner of The Rock MMA. About 2,000 fans are expected, and in addition to live cage fights, there'll be music by bands and DJs, food and cash bars, strong man demonstrations, babes in bikinis, and more. Visit www.therockatthedock.com for details.

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Read About It: Huntersville Home (Ball So Hard) Renovation Story

In the March issue of Lake Norman Magazine, you'll find a home renovation story I wrote, titled "Sophisticated Sanctuary." The work was done by Starr Miller Interior Design, and in early January, Starr took me on a tour of the house. You can read the story and see the photos and understand how posh the place is--and this just focuses on about a fourth of the house without even detailing the immaculately landscaped yard and an outdoor living space that Hugh Hefner would approve of.

But there's one thing in particular I'd like to point out in this picture below from inside the house. The flatscreen TV is behind/inside the wall mirror, and the speakers are hidden in the wall as well. It all comes to life with a remote control that looks like a mini-keyboard. Ball so hard.

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Read About It: Boyz II Men, Dinner Cruise, Celebrity Poker Tournament Highlight July 23 Fundraiser

This Saturday, July 23, Lake, Land & Lyrics takes place at Queen’s Landing on Lake Norman, as a fundraiser for Autism Services of Mecklenburg County. The eventful evening features three dinner options (two dinner cruises on the lake and one dinner on land), the Brentson A. Buckner Celebrity Poker Tournament, a concert at the outdoor amphitheater featuring Boyz II Men and Jim Quick & Coastline, and several celebrity guest appearances.

I interviewed Shawn Stockman from Boyz II Men for Creative Loafing. The article was posted online yesterday and you can read it here.

Visit www.lakelandandlyrics.org for more details on the event, and buy your tickets today to support this great cause.

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Events for the Week: August 11-15

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. Use contact/website info listed to verify event details.

Wednesday, August 11

Pop Life
It’s still the city’s most popular Wednesday night event. Starts after work but runs late. Complimentary food 7-9 p.m. from Sadie’s. Music by DJ DR. Presented by Sol Kitchen. 7 p.m.-2 a.m. Free. Luna Lounge, 521 N. College St. www.lunacharlotte.com or www.thesolkitchen.com.


Thursday, August 12

The Beautiful People Event
This stylish event offers an evening that includes photo shoots and a Glam Bar. Mingle with tastemakers from Charlotte's fashion scene. For guest list consideration, send an email including your name and occupation to stylemayvinpr@gmail.com. 7-11 p.m. Free. Chima Brazilian Steakhouse, 139 N. Tryon St. www.stylemayvin.com.


Friday, August 13

The Art of Body
This artistic event is poised to get your weekend off to a great start. Enjoy Gentleman Jack and other drink specials in a posh lounge, while listening to music by DJ Shogun. And the treat of the evening will be models wearing body paint. Presented by Team Takerz. 7 p.m. Free. Apostrophe Lounge, 1440 S. Tryon St. www.apostrophelounge.com.


Saturday, August 14

5K Rock 'N Run/Walk Event
North End Partners invites you to run (or walk) this 5K event to support four non-profit agencies: Crisis Assistance, Hope Haven, Historic Rosedale, and Uptown Men's Shelter. Immediately following the run will be a concert. 6:30-7:30 a.m. registration; 8 a.m. 5K begins. $25-$30. NC Music Factory, 820 Hamilton St. Register at www.ncrockandrun.com.

Back to School Bash
Celebrate back to school time during this event presented by The Prodigal Son Foundation, an organization that provides education assistance and mentoring to youth. There will be free food, games, school supply giveaways, prizes, moon bounce, music, new student registration, and more. 4-7 p.m. Free. Nathaniel Alexander Elementary School, 7910 Neal Rd. www.prodigalsonfoundation.org.

Le Reve II
Upgrade your nightlife experience at one of Charlotte's most luxurious sceneries. This party caters to the classy and sophisticated. VIP includes heavy hors d'oeuvres, complimentary champagne, and private massages. Presented by Blue Goose Entertainment. 10 p.m.-2:30 a.m. General admission $15, VIP $25. M5 Modern Mediterranean, 4310 Sharon Rd. www.bluegoosenc.com/lereve.

Antawn Jamison's 2nd Annual All-White Party
Wear your best white attire and join the Cleveland Cavalier and Charlotte native along with his NBA friends. Hosted by Columbia radio station Hot 103.9's Neek. 10 p.m. Members and ladies dressed in white free until 11 p.m. Advance tickets: general admission $15, VIP $30. Club 935, 935 S. Summit Ave. www.club935.com; tickets at www.ez-tixx.com.


Sunday, August 15

So Fancy Yacht Party
“I'm on a boat” is what you can be saying during this party on the water. Special birthday celebration for the Leos. Music by DJ Polo. Presented by SDE Marketing & Promotions. 8-11:30 p.m. $30 and up. Kingspoint Marina on Lake Norman. sofancy.eventbrite.com.

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Events for the Weekend: July 30-Aug. 1

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. Use contact/website info listed to verify event details.

Friday, July 30

Chife, Changing Reflections of My Life
Chife, which stands for changing life, is an original piece about how the power of love and forgiveness can and will change one's existence. The stories are real, personal, and are based on songs by Michael Jackson. Friday, 8 p.m.; Saturday, 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. $7-$12. Duke Energy Theatre, 345 North College St. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Rock & Republic Fashion Show Model Casting Call
Whether you're an aspiring model or just want to mingle with them, attend this model casting call for the upcoming Rock & Republic Fashion Show. Models are asked to bring their photo/comp card. 9:30 p.m. Suite, at the EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St. www.suitecharlotte.com.

I Heart Hip Hop
DJ K-Nyce plays the best in hip-hop from old-school classics to today's hits, while you party at this sophisticated lounge. 10 p.m. Free. Apostrophe Lounge, 1440 S. Tryon St. www.apostrophelounge.com.

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Charlotte Restaurant Week Summer 2010

It comes around twice a year, when fellas can treat their ladies to a nice dinner without breaking the bank. The summer 2010 installment of Charlotte Restaurant Week takes place July 16-25. In what's becoming a local dining tradition, this 10-day celebration of some of the city's finest restaurants once again offers a prix fixe, three-course dinner for $30 per person (not including tax and gratuity) at nearly 90 participating restaurants in the Charlotte area. And several restaurants are known to sweeten the deal by either including a fourth course or throwing in a glass of wine.

Interior shots of some of the participating restaurants - from left to right - bottom row: Customshop, Aquavina, Aria; middle row: Global, Carpe Diem, Vivace; top row: M5, The Liberty, Blue (click image for larger view).

Participating restaurants include:

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Events for the Weekend: July 4th Edition

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. Use contact/website info listed to verify event details.

Saturday, July 3

The Queen City Summer Festival (2 events)
-Saturday Fun Fest—Free Cookout
It's an afternoon of food and fun, with games hosted by PlayDate Charlotte. Presented by The Sol Kitchen, The A List, and Velvet Entertainment. 3-8 p.m. Free. Marshall Park, 800 E. Third St. www.thesolkitchen.com.
-Saturday Night Carnivale—After-Party
After the cookout it's the after-party. Plenty of drink specials and late-night menu. Music by DJ Bro Rabb. 10 p.m.-2:30 a.m. Cost varies. Therapy Cafe, 401 N. Tryon St. www.velvet-ent.com.

Yacht Party—The Independence Edition
Take a boat ride while enjoying food, live entertainment, and giveaways, with music by DJ Polo. 8-11:30 p.m. $30 and up. Kings Point Marina, 18020 Kings Point Dr., Cornelius. 704-492-0069, qcinfobroker@gmail.com.

Saturday Night Live Featuring Shableek
Enjoy a great night of live music at this eclectic venue. 9 p.m. $10. Wine-Up, 3306 N. Davidson St. www.bandtastic.com/shableek.


Sunday, July 4

Red, White and Boom and Family Fun Festival
It's Uptown Charlotte's annual fireworks display and gathering. A family-friendly event with plenty of activities for kids. 6-10 p.m. Free admission; $5 parking fee. Memorial Stadium, 301 N. Kings Dr. www.findyourcenter.com.

July 4th Summer Jam
This venue and its great balcony offers one of the best views of the Uptown fireworks. Enjoy drink specials, games, and hookahs. Live performance by Blue Monday playing 80s and 90s alternative rock. 8 p.m. Loft 1523, 1523 Elizabeth Ave. www.loft1523.com.

Frolic on the 4th
Just a week after throwing its hugely successful Mansion Party, Maz Entertainment is getting it popping for the holiday. Party on all three levels of this night spot. 10 p.m. Cost varies (for discounted entry, text 704-280-4577 or email frolic@mazentertainment.net). LaTorre's, Fiji, Kashmir. 116 W. Fifth St. www.mazentertainment.net.

Sunset Sunday
Party at one of Charlotte's most exclusive lounges, while popping bottles and puffing cigars. Music by DJ Dexter Dynamite. 10 p.m.-2 a.m. Men free til 11 p.m.; ladies free til 11:30 p.m. The Sunset Club, 1820 South Blvd. www.young-vets.com/NightLife.html.

This Is It featuring DJ Jazzy Jeff
The world-famous DJ leads the music at one of the last scheduled parties before this nightclub closes for good. Brought to you by The Sol Kitchen, Dee Autry, and Rickmond Media. 10 p.m. Cost varies. The Forum, 300 N. College St. www.thesolkitchen.com.

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You Can Still Treat Your Boo: Charlotte Restaurant Week Extended at Many Restaurants

After snow and ice kept many Charlotteans in over the weekend, which was the final weekend of the winter installment of Charlotte Restaurant Week, several restaurants are extending the popular culinary celebration. Originally scheduled for January 22-31, many restaurants are extending the three-course, $30 special through this weekend.

Restaurants offering the special, also known as Queen's Feast, through Saturday, February 6 include: Basil Thai, Mez, Sole, D'Vine Wine, Morton's, 300 East, Mimosa Grill, Zink American Kitchen, Upstream, M5 Modern Mediterranean, Carpe Diem, and many more. Blue Restaurant and Bar is extending it until February 12.

You can keep up with the growing list of restaurants offering the extension by visiting Charlotte Restaurant Week on Facebook (www.facebook.com/CharlotteRestaurantWeek) or Twitter (twitter.com/QueensFeast).

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