Talking About Nightlife on The Charlotte Podcast

I was the guest on this week's episode of The Charlotte Podcast with hosts John and Miller. The guys had me on to talk about Charlotte nightlife. And because I have a tendency to give backstories, a lot of our discussion focused on how far the city's nightlife scene has come during the decade I've lived here; plus, where I feel it's headed and what we need more of. They also had me recommend a bachelor party night out in Charlotte, which was a fun, on-the-spot question.

During our conversation, I pretty much gave a walk down memory lane on "nightlife" in Charlotte, to the lonely days before there was an EpiCentre or Music Factory in Uptown, or bars and breweries all over NoDa, South End, and Plaza Midwood. Back when the most there was to look forward to in the nightlife and social scene was Alive After Five. (Not knocking AA5, though, which returned for the season last week, and runs each Thursday through August; it's a rite of passage for newcomers, and is still a great social event to meet people.)

If you haven't lived in Charlotte very long and/or you feel the current nightlife scene leaves a lot to be desired, you should listen to this podcast discussion because it will: 1) Cause you to realize how good you have it here now compared to before; 2) Help you understand the positive momentum and growth the scene is continuing to experience, which bodes well for the future. And, it's just fun to talk about "going out" even if you don't do so often, but we all have FOMO from time to time.

I've gone to Red Clay Ciderworks a couple of times, which is an extension of Charlotte's craft brewery scene

I enjoyed talking to Miller and John, and I appreciate them for having me on. I first "met" Miller through Twitter (@MillerYoho), maybe a couple of years ago, and we've since gotten to know each other through our day jobs. And this was my first time meeting John in person, since I'd only previously known him through his Twitter alias (@TheTrolleyWalk).

Listen to the episode in the embed below or directly on Soundcloud or iTunes (episode 015).

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Money Magazine Reveals What We Already Know: Charlotte Is the 'Best Big-City Bargain' In the Country

ICYMI, earlier this week, Money magazine published its annual package of stories and rankings comprising its "Best Places to Live in America." Among the 2014 lists is the "Best Big-City Bargains," and coming in at No. 1 is Charlotte, which you likely agree with if you live here. Nos. 2-5 are Phoenix, Fort Worth, Boston, and Chicago. The Time Inc.-owned publication describes its methodology for determining the list:

To create this list of best-value big-city neighborhoods, we ranked places with over 500,000 in population on housing affordability, economic strength, home price forecasts, and livability using data from NeighborhoodScout, OnBoard Informatics, and CoreLogic. Then we looked for promising, well-priced neighborhoods in our top 10 locales.

It highlights two thriving Charlotte neighborhoods in particular: Plaza Midwood, writing, "Just 10 minutes by car from the center of Charlotte, this artsy, bike-friendly neighborhood is an interesting mix of the gritty and the pretty;" and Mountain Island Lake, "Convenient to the soon-to-be-completed I-485 beltway, Mountain Island Lake features pretty, spacious homes." I live in the less glamorous section of the Mountain Island area, but about five minutes north of me is the community Money is referring to, which really is a hidden gem in Charlotte (and maybe in five years I'll be able to afford to live there).

In addition to Best Big-City Bargains, Money, in the October 2014 issue, also profiles the 50 Best Small Cities, Best Places to Be Rich and Single, Top Earning Towns, and Best Places to Find a New Job.

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The Air Jordan 5 'Bel-Air' Releases Saturday

For sneaker heads, Saturday is often an important day. That's when a lot of the highly anticipated sneakers are released for sale in stores. This Saturday, October 5 is a big day for fans of the J's. The Air Jordan 5 "Bel-Air" is being sold at limited stores nationwide and is expected to sell out.

The 5's continue the lucrative trend by Jordan Brand of releasing retro sneakers in new colors. You have people my age and older who remember when these sneakers were originally released in 1990 and they want them today partly because of the nostalgia or because they can afford them now. And then there are the teenagers like my nephews who are intrigued by the sneakers that originally came out before they were born.

This release of the Air Jordan 5, or V, which retails for $185, has been given the nickname Bel-Air because the colors are reminiscent of the flashy and funky styles Will Smith wore on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. The colorway for the sneakers are cool grey, court purple, game royal, club pink. Guess you could say it's a classic's ode to a classic, and one of the best sitcoms of all time also debuted in 1990, the same year as the Jordan 5's. Will's character often wore Air Jordans on the show.

If you're looking to buy these sneaks tomorrow, good luck. They're only being sold at select stores. If you're looking for them in the Charlotte area, the Foot Locker stores at SouthPark Mall and Carolina Place Mall are selling them, but you won't be able to just show up to buy them. Having learn from the craze, headaches, and even potential dangers of crowds forming outside of stores on the morning of popular sneaker releases, stores like Foot Locker now do sweepstakes or lotteries--just for the opportunity to buy the shoes. Specifically for the Bel-Airs, the Foot Locker at SouthPark and Carolina Place (as well as other select FL stores nationwide) issued tickets on Wednesday and Thursday to people who came by the store. You had to designate the exact size you wanted. Then today, Foot Locker called the winners, who'll now be able to come to the store tomorrow to buy the sneakers.

If you want to buy them from a store locally, you'll have the chance to cop the kicks from Social Status, the high-end sneaker boutique and men's clothing store in Plaza Midwood (1519 Central Ave., 704-632-9902). I called the store and the representative said they're selling the Bel-Airs on a first-come, first-served basis when they open at 11 a.m. tomorrow, and that you must also spend an additional $100 on merchandise to be able to buy the sneakers.

Social Status. Credit: socialstatuspgh.com

Foot Locker also says the sneakers will go on sale online tomorrow at 8 a.m. at Footlocker.com.

And artists are still making new songs about wearing J's.

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'Homeland' Season 3 Begins September 29

The cast and crew of the hit Showtime television series Homeland have been spotted around Charlotte a lot over the last couple of months--Uptown, SouthPark, Plaza Midwood--filming scenes for the upcoming season. Now we know when we'll get to see the highly anticipated season three: it premieres Sunday, September 29, 9 p.m. Showtime released this 30-second tease video, "Signals," today, and although it doesn't show any scenes, it's enough to get hardcore fans like me excited.

I'll certainly be among the millions of viewers tuning in to Showtime exactly two months from today to see what's going to happen with Brody, Carrie, Saul, and 'em, particularly after that explosive end to season two (literally). ShowBiz411 has revealed the titles of the first seven episodes of season three, and reports that episode nine is still being cast. The latter appears to align with the calls for extras in Charlotte on the Homeland Casting Facebook page, and since each season of Homeland features 12 episodes, I'm assuming the show is still in production on a handful of episodes.

The working relationship/friendship between Carrie (Claire Danes) and Saul (Mandy Patinkin) is expected to be one of season three's most pivotal storylines.
Credit: facebook.com/homelandonshowtime 

Visit the multi-Emmy-winning show's website at www.sho.com/homeland.

UPDATE: 8-09-13
The official Homeland Season 3 trailer was released today. It's a little more than three minutes long and is full of riveting snapshots.

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My First Time: Nova's Bakery in South End

I had a coffee meeting yesterday afternoon with an editor for one of the publications I write for. When we were scheduling the meeting, I suggested we have it at Nova's Bakery in South End. I hadn't been there before, so I figured now would be a good time to check it out.

There are actually two Nova's Bakery locations. This one opened last fall at 1515 South Boulevard (in the former Laurel Market space), and the main one is located in Plaza Midwood--they also set up shop on Saturdays at the Charlotte Regional Farmers Market. All told, Nova's has been making fresh European breads and pastries in Charlotte since 1996, and eventually began serving coffee.

We all hold meetings from time to time at coffee shops/bakeries, but rather than go to the big chains like Starbucks and Panera all the time, I try to support the mom-and-pops. And the great thing about the South End location of Nova's is that it's opened 24 hours a day (Nova's joins Amelie's French Bakery in NoDa as, I believe, the only two 24-hour coffee/bakery spots in the Center City and surrounding areas).

I enjoyed a large cup of Brazilian roast coffee and two croissants--one almond-filled and the other chocolate. The croissants were fresh and tasty, but I wish there was more filling. As for the building, it's a quaint space, with free WiFi, seating inside for eight to 10 people, and seating outside for 10 to 12.

Visit www.novasbakery.com for more details.

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'Man v. Food Nation' Takes on Charlotte

Last night's episode of Man v. Food Nation on Travel Channel showcased Charlotte eateries that you've either made a beeline to often or at least have heard people rave over. Host Adam Richman and crew visited Charlotte a few months ago to try out popular or extreme menu items at The Penguin Drive-In (Plaza Midwood), Price's Chicken Coop (South End), and Jackalope Jacks (Elizabeth). The Penguin's Double Pounder (pictured below), with four half-pound patties (two pounds of beef), pimento cheese, and fried pickles, is the star of the show (and a cardiac event waiting to happen).

Source: travelchannel.com.

I can personally attest to the mouthwatering goodness served at The Penguin and Price's, but I've never eaten at Jackalope. If you missed the show last night, it re-airs this Saturday at 12 p.m. You can also watch a few video clips from the episode by clicking here.

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Saturday: Become a Better Blogger, Social Media-er; Plus, Empowerment Event for Women

There are two events taking place this Saturday, January 21 that can help you become a better you. I'm sure you haven't reneged on those New Year's resolutions already, right?

First up, Saturday at 11:30 a.m., the Charlotte Area Association of Black Journalists (CAABJ) is presenting "The Social Guide for Journalists," tips and strategies to become a better journalist, blogger, and overall writer in today's ever-changing world of social media. Whether you're a professional journalist, budding blogger, or just interested in learning more about social media, you're invited to attend. I'm one of the panelists (@HollidayInk), along with social media gurus Jameka Whitten (@JamekaShamae) and Davida Jackson (@Called2Connect). The event takes place at Kickstand Burgers-N-Bar, 1101 Central Avenue.

Then, on Saturday afternoon, Motivation Marketing Firm, GP Events, MotherInMe.com, and Swank Group are partnering to present the New Year, New You Ladies Empowerment Event. It takes place 12-4 p.m. at Kalu, 505 E. Sixth Street, and is free for women to attend. The event will feature mini workshops by beauty, hair, financial, fashion, and health professionals to help women become better versions of themselves in 2012. There will also be Asian-inspired food, music by DJ Yasmin Young of Power 98, items for sale by local vendors, live performances, and attendees will receive gift bags, giveaways, and more.

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Next Charlotte Restaurant Week—January 20-29, 2012

The semi-annual Queen's Feast: Charlotte Restaurant Week returns for its Winter 2012 edition, taking place Friday, January 20 through Sunday, January 29. The CRW website, www.charlotterestaurantweek.com, went live today with the updated info and there are a record 101 restaurants participating.

Charlotte Restaurant Week began in 2008 and since then has been held each January (winter) and July (summer). I remember the first time I blogged about it here on Grown People Talking was in the summer of 2009, in which was its third installment--it featured a then-record high 71 restaurants and also marked the first time it spanned 10 days. Clearly, CRW has grown—the last one featured 92 restaurants—and it's now solidified as a culinary tradition in the city.

It's the same deal you love: participating restaurants offering a prix fixe, three-course dinner for $30 per person (not including tax and gratuity). Many restaurants will throw in a fourth course or glass of wine for the deal.

Fern, Flavors from the Garden is one of a dozen first-time participants in restaurant week.

Restaurant owners love the promotion because it draws in diners during what is typically slow periods, and brings them a lot of first-time customers whom they hope will become regulars. And we, patrons, love it because it's a chance to enjoy a great meal and evening out at a reduced cost. Hensley Fontana Public Relations & Marketing, which owns and executes Charlotte Restaurant Week, reports that the summer edition in July 2011 generated approximately 90,000 dinners and an estimated economic impact of more than $4 million in revenue.

While nearly two-thirds of the participating restaurants are located in the Uptown, Dilworth, SouthPark, and south Charlotte areas—understandably so because those areas have the most restaurants period—the list spans the entire Charlotte area. The Lake Norman/North Mecklenburg/Iredell County section of the list has grown the most, now featuring 17 restaurants.

There are also a dozen first-time participants, including Bernardin’s at Ratcliffe in Uptown; Campania Cafe in Davidson; Fern, Flavors from the Garden in Plaza Midwood; Waldhorn Restaurant in Pineville; Yama Asian Fusion in SouthPark; Jeffrey’s Restaurant in Mooresville; Osso Restaurant & Lounge at N.C. Music Factory (opened just last week); La Paz in the Metropolitan; and several others.

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Charlotte Restaurant Week Summer 2011 Is Underway

It's that time of year again when you can eat out at a great restaurant without hurting your pockets. The summer installment of Charlotte Restaurant Week began yesterday and runs through next Sunday (July 15-24). Also known as Queen's Feast, and held for ten days twice a year--once in the winter and once in the summer--Charlotte Restaurant Week is as popular as ever. You can tell that by the huge banner hanging in Uptown and by the fact that there are 92 restaurants participating this time, which I think is a record number. When CRW started a few years ago, there would be around 70 restaurants involved.

It's the same deal that people have come to love: a prix fixe, three-course dinner for $30 per person (not including tax and gratuity) at each of the participating restaurants. Plus, several of the restaurants either throw in a fourth course or a glass of wine. Eighteen restaurants in Uptown are participating, which is the most for any section of town. Followed by sixteen in the SouthPark/Park Road/Foxcroft area. There are several participating in Dilworth, south Charlotte, Lake Norman, and a few in Elizabeth, South End, Plaza Midwood, and other neighborhoods around Charlotte.

While there are a lot of top-notch, typically expensive restaurants on the list--Del Frisco's, Upstream, BLT Steak, etc.--I'm more inclined to try some of the places I've heard a lot about but have yet to visit, like Fran's Filling Station, Table 274, 15 North Roadside Kitchen, and Pisces Sushi Bar & Lounge.

Go to www.charlotterestaurantweek.com for all the details, which includes a page for each restaurant and the menu it's offering for the special. You can also become a fan on Facebook (www.facebook.com/CharlotteRestaurantWeek), where you can see people post comments about their experiences.

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CNN Is 'Defining America', Starts with Charlotte

Around noon today, a story started popping up in my News Feed on Facebook as several friends were sharing the link to the article posted today to CNN.com, titled "What Charlotte learned 'when the world flipped'." I'm always intrigued to read these articles or watch broadcasts by national news outlets about the city in which I live. Charlotte has been in the national spotlight a lot over the last few years, from the growth of banking and NASCAR, to North Carolina becoming a political swing state, to our growing population, to the meltdown of the financial industry, to the announcement of the city being awarded the 2012 Democratic National Convention, and so on.

Some national media outlets do a good job of depicting life in Charlotte, while others make it obvious they just parachuted in, talked to a few people, and didn't get a keen understanding of the lay of the land. For this CNN article and writer Thom Patterson, I would give a grade of B. The profile on Charlotte is part of CNN's summer-long Defining America project, in which the multi-platform news network "will be traveling the country with the CNN Express to explore the stories behind the data and demographics."

Here are a few notable things I feel the article on Charlotte did well:

• Described what the financial industry means to Charlotte and how the loss of thousands of jobs have impacted the city and people.
• Drew distinctions between the different neighborhoods: Uptown, NoDa, South End, Plaza Midwood, and even the 'burbs of Union County.
• Interviewed key people: local businessmen, journalists, civic leaders, and everyday patrons and neighbors.
• Highlighted the growing energy sector and how Duke Energy is emerging.

And here are things I feel the article could've done better:

• The video on NoDa, which was placed at the top of the page, should've explored the neighborhood more.
• More attention should've been paid to the city's growing diversity. It was mentioned in the paragraph about population growth, but wasn't elaborated.
• Education wasn't covered at all. How can you chronicle a city and not talk about its public schools or higher education offerings?
• Ballantyne should've at least been mentioned--with all the money and growth over there.

Those are just a few of my thoughts. The article is a good read whether you live in the Charlotte area or not. There are also a few videos included and there's one in particular I wanted to highlight. In the left column of the page is a thumbnail for a video segment titled "Chef turns profits into food for poor." It's about chef/restaurant owner Jim Noble and the great work he's doing for the community with his not-for profit restaurant, The King's Kitchen. I've embedded the video below.

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Valerie Hamilton's Case on 'Good Morning America'

Bad news turned to worst when 23-year-old missing woman Valerie Hamilton's body was found Saturday night inside a storage unit in southeast Charlotte. When she went missing early Wednesday morning after leaving Thomas Street Tavern in Plaza Midwood, her case quickly made local and national news because she's the daughter of Concord police Chief Merl Hamilton. This morning, Hamilton and Concord Mayor Scott Padgett appeared on Good Morning America to help bring attention to suspect Michael Neal Harvey, a registered sex offender with a long rap sheet who's now on the run.

With all of the attention Valerie's case is getting, her killer will likely be caught soon. And when the suspect is captured, I hope the media will take a look at how their coverage made it impossible for this animal to hide, and realize that if they gave this same kind of immediate coverage whenever a person went missing, particularly when there's a suspect, how much more likely it is the criminal will be caught. Just think of how these real-life cases are depicted in A&E's The First 48. Far too many missing people are never found or their abductors/killers are never brought to justice because their case lacks the sensationalism that media too often desires.

This is not to in any way diminish how tragic Valerie's murder is and I certainly offer my condolences to her family and friends. She was a young woman who taught swim lessons and loved working with children, and it's always sad to see the good die young. Hopefully, the Good Morning America broadcast, which I've posted video of below, will help lead to her killer's arrest.

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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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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: June 4-7

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, June 4

Art of Dope Vol. 1 Opening Reception
God City artists are presenting a series of shows that play off of drug culture, done through artistic expression in order to bring awareness to what’s going on in our society. 7-10 p.m. The ArtHouse, 3103 Cullman Ave., NoDa. www.godcity7.net.

AZÚCAR! A Caribbean Celebration
Experience a true Caribbean evening featuring native music and dancing in a family-friendly atmosphere. Enjoy the cuisine of the Spanish Caribbean, purchase handmade artisan craftwork, and sip tropical mojitos. Presented by Latin American Coalition. 7-11 p.m. $15. Neighborhood Theatre, 511 E. 36th St. www.latinamericancoalition.org.

Free Friday
This monthly night out has a new location (formerly held at Kiss Lounge). Enjoy a great view of the city while listening to music by DJ C-Rob and a live performance by Unique Rhythm. 9 p.m.-2:30 a.m. Free until midnight. Loft 1523, 1523 Elizabeth Ave. www.loft1523.com.

Saturday, June 5

Grand Opening of Pickles Farmers Market
This new, indoor farmers market will be open every Saturday in NoDa. Shop from a lineup of vendors offering fresh fruit and vegetables, baked goods, herbs, plants, cut flowers, crafts, grass fed beef, pasture chickens and eggs, fair trade coffee, and more. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Hart Witzen Gallery, 136 E. 36th St. www.picklesfarmersmarket.com.

Minute to Win It – Charlotte Casting Call
NBC’s new hit game show, which features 10 deceptively simple games that require savvy contestants to complete under pressure with a prize of $1 million awaiting the winner, is holding a casting in select cities including Charlotte. Come see if you have the skill it takes. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. StrikeCity, inside the EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St. www.nbc.com/casting/#minute.

Prince Tribute/Funky Disco Brunch
DJ Rsenal will be playing your favorite Prince (and other disco) songs while you order food from one of the city’s best brunch menus. 11 a.m. -3 p.m. Free admission. Soul Gastrolounge, 1500 Central Ave. www.soulgastrolounge.com.

On The Roxx Ballantyne’s 3 Year Anniversary Party
Enjoy great music from Red Bull-powered DJ Ben Hamilton, and plenty of drink specials including $2 select beers, $3 flavored vodka shooters, and $5 jager bombs. Plus, play in the corn hole tournament, Wii, and more. 7 p.m.-2 a.m. Free. On The Roxx, 14021 Conlan Circle. www.ontheroxx.com.

Sunday, June 6

Kazba Café Brunch Party
This monthly brunch event gets quite wild, yet fun, against the backdrop of a posh lounge. DJ Stan Courtois and Felly (saxophonist) will be performing with DJ Stan on the turntables. Event will be videotaped and recorded to be broadcast on Sirius Radio channel AREA. 1-6 p.m. Kazba, 210 E. Trade St., third level of EpiCentre. www.kazbacharlotte.com.

Symphonic Dances
The Charlotte Symphony opens its Summer Pops season by showcasing the best of classical dance music. Albert-George Schram conducts. Prelude performance (7 p.m.) by the Charlotte Symphony Youth Orchestra. 8:15 p.m. Free; donation appreciated. Symphony Park at SouthPark Mall, 4400 Sharon Road. www.charlottesymphony.org.

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Sunday Brunch at Soul Gastrolounge

Here's a camera phone pic of the delicious chicken and waffles I ate today during Sunday brunch at Soul Gastrolounge in Plaza Midwood. It was a great after-Easter-church-service meal, plus we ate on the balcony, enjoying the spring weather. The chicken and waffles is part of their regular brunch menu, which is served Saturdays and Sundays 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and they also had special items like Rabbit Pot Pie in honor of the holiday.

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