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TABLE OF

contents3rd Quarter 2018

49

30

54

FEATURES

EAST CHARLOTTE EXPLOSION

18 Take a walk on the east side

by Kathy Buckley

22 Fashion on the sidewalks of Central Ave.

by Tracy Saunders

26 Aldersgate celebrates 70 years

by Kathy Buckley

30 Historical style at the Museum of History

by Richard Pattison

CHARLOTTE FASHION WEEK

37 See the glitz and glam of Charlotte

Fashion Week with the official program

printed inside.

REDEFINING HIS AMERICAN DREAM

54 Najam Usmani has learned the true

purpose of success.

by Sherri K. Johnson

charlottelivingmagazine.com

DEPARTMENTS

STYLE FILE

49 Erik Jones at Joe Gibbs Racing

by Hade E. Robinson, Jr.

CHARLOTTE CHIC

53 The Costume Designer

by Rev. Tony Marciano

MIND, BODY & SOUL

56 The man makes the clothes

by Rev. Tony Marciano

58 Relax, don’t freeze

by Summit Kundaria, MD

60 Your beautiful smile

by Ramesh K. Sunar, DMD

VERY CULINARY

by Heidi Billotto

62 The 2018 NCRLA Chef Showdown

66 Good Cup Coffee

68 Pasta & Provisions

GIVING BACK

74 Chef’s Best Dinner for Second Harvest

by Jessica Annunziata

76 Allegro Foundation Ambassador’s Ball

by Stephen Davis

IN THE CITY

78 Center City’s cultural scene

by Adam Rhew

IN EVERY ISSUE

12 credits

14 editor’s letter

16 contributors

80 photo finish

ON THE COVER

Charlotte Fashion Week

by Gerin Choiniere

See page 37 for your

Charlotte Fashion Week

official program.

10 | CHARLOTTE LIVING

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Call 704.375.4252 to schedule a free consultation.

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www.CharlotteDentalImplantCenter.com

PUBLISHER/EDITOR IN CHIEF

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

PHOTOGRAPHER

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

GRAPHIC PRODUCTION

FOOD EDITOR

CONTRIBUTORS

Kathy Buckley

Glen Williamson

Gerin Choiniere

Bill Lands

Spectrum Creative Graphics

Heidi Billotto

Jessica Annunziata

Heidi Billotto

Cassandra Bradley

Sherri K. Johnson

Summit Kundaria, MDs

Rev. Tony Marciano

Richard Pattison

Tom Petaccia

Adam Rhew

Hade E. Robinson, Jr.

Tracy Sanchez

Michael Smith

Ramesh Sunar, DMD

PROJECT CONSULTANT

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

Professional Consultant Group, Inc.

Mark Vita

Visit charlottelivingmagazine.com and join our email list for updates and information.

Follow us on Facebook @Charlotte Living, twitter @CLTLivingMag or

Instagram @charlotteliving.

For advertising information please call Kathy Buckley at 704.641.2132 or email

kathy@charlottelivingmagazine.com.

CHARLOTTE LIVING magazine is published quarterly by Charlotte Living

Magazine, LLC, 3739 Havenwood Road, Charlotte, NC 28205.

All contents copyright 2018 by Charlotte Living Magazine, LLC. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in part or in whole without written permission from the publisher

is strictly prohibited. Manuscripts, artwork, photographs, inquiries, and submitted

materials are welcomed and will be returned only if accompanied by a stamped,

self-addressed envelope. However, CHARLOTTE LIVING cannot be responsible for

unsolicited material. All materials received will be treated as intended for

publication and will become the property of the magazine and subject to editing.

Opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of Charlotte Living Magazine,

LLC or its employees.

charlottelivingmagazine.com


FROM THE EDITOR

Take aWalk on the East Side

When the sun rises over our city every morning, its sunbeams shine first on East Charlotte. The windows in my den and

kitchen face the east, and they are as bright as headlights as the day begins. It is a lovely place to sip coffee.

For as long as I can remember, my parents loaded us in the car at 9:30 every Sunday morning and headed to Sunday

school. We went to Commonwealth Methodist Church, which was a new church in a new development east of downtown

Charlotte. Independence Boulevard was brand new, and my family

lived nearby in an adorable little house that was built in the 1940s. The

roads on the way to church had giant trees and manicured lawns, but nothing

was ever too rich or fancy. The streets on the east side make me feel at

home. I love to walk in my neighborhood or almost anywhere close by.

It is rare to meet local Charlotteans who have lived here all their lives, but

I just happen to be one of them. The radical changes that are taking place

all around will turn your head as you ride by and wonder what used to

be there. Not too long ago, Charlotte was considered to be “vanilla” – all

Southern charm with no substance or edge. That is no longer the case, and the spicy flavors of many cultures can be

savored in the upcoming “Taste of the World” event on October 3rd sponsored by the board of CharlotteEAST. We hope

you will come out to support our local businesses and restaurateurs.

This issue of Charlotte Living is near and dear to my heart, and we are thrilled to be part of Charlotte Fashion Week 2018.

The official guide for this exciting event is printed in these pages. You will love the extraordinary styling and fall

fashion by the best of the best in our fair city. This is the perfect time of year to explore the Charlotte Museum of History

or window shop along Central Avenue. You will be inspired and entertained, but be sure to stop and experience the delicious

cuisine in the neighborhood.

We hope you enjoy our look at the east side and the many heartwarming stories in this issue. Come join us for dinner

and take a walk to fill your heart and soul!

Kathy Buckley, Editor in Chief


CHARLOTTE LIVING CONTRIBUTORS

JESSICA ANNUNZIATA is a former restaurateur with

20 years in hospitality. Always a consummate storyteller,

she has decided to follow her true passions: travel and

writing with her new venture, Eat Sip Wander LLC, a food

& beverage tourism company. Jess is a serious lover of

Champagne, music, books, and finding undiscovered far

off places.

RICHARD PATTISON is a founding partner of Taylor

Richards & Conger and has been a student of men’s

clothing for nearly four decades. With his business associates,

he has created a nationally recognized men’s

store that has consistently achieved Esquire Magazine’s

coveted Gold Standard Award of Excellence.

HEIDI BILLOTTO writes about food and restaurants in

Charlotte, teaches cooking classes and has a successful

catering business. Heidi is married to guitarist and vocalist,

Tom Billotto. The two often work together providing

“food and mood” at parties and events. Be sure to check

out Heidi's blog at HeidiBillottoFood.com.

HADE ROBINSON, JR. a.k.a. Carolina Style Guy on

WCNC/NBC’s Charlotte Today is Personal Stylist & Sales

Manager at Nordstrom SouthPark. He serves on the

Board of Advisors to the International Fashion Style

Academy and is a Certified Judge with the Miss America

Organization. Hade is well known for his style expertise

and hosts fashion shows and events in the city.s

CASS BRADLEY is a commercial/editorial portrait and

wedding photographer with clients across the US and

internationally. She has been published in many magazines,

including Southpark Magazine, Carolina Bride and

Grace Ormond Wedding Style. Cass spent 17 years in the

corporate world and made the decision to leave it nine

years ago to open her studio, BlueSky Photo Artists, and

hasn’t looked back.

TRACY SANCHEZ is a creative, artist, and visionary; and

fashion styling is second nature. After spending 20 years

in the corporate real estate industry, she decided to follow

her heart and start a career in styling. Tracy puts a fresh

yet classic twist on fashion, pulling inspiration from ’70s

icons and current fashion leaders. She has extensive

experience with styling weddings, commercials, fashion

shoots, personal styling, and shopping.

SHERRI K. JOHNSON is a seasoned PR pro, content

strategist and self-proclaimed word nerd. Her 25 years

of public relations experience combined with a love of

writing form the foundation of her business, The

Content Shop. In her free time, she enjoys adventure

travel which has kick-started her next career as a travel

writer. She is a big fan of the em dash and Oxford

comma enthusiast.

MICHAEL SMITH is President and CEO of Charlotte Center

City Partners, which facilitates and promotes the cultural

and economic development of the Charlotte region’s

urban core. His background blends corporate and nonprofit

experience.

SUMMIT KUNDARIA, MD is the owner of Nuance Facial

Plastics, based in Cotswold. A recent transplant from

California, he takes pride in defying expectations using

his non-traditional approach. His interests include philanthropy,

photography, reef aquariums, and parenting.

REVEREND TONY MARCIANO is the Executive Director

of the Charlotte Rescue Mission (CRM). Located in the

shadow of Bank of America stadium, CRM provides free

Christian residential recovery programs for people struggling

with addiction, poverty and hopelessness. He is also

available able to speak to your group.

RAMESH K. SUNAR, DMD is the founder of Charlotte

Root Canal Center and Charlotte Dental Implant Center.

He was born and raised in India. He earned his degree in

Dental Medicine in 1998 from the University of

Connecticut School of Dental Medicine and in 2007

began his training in cosmetic dentistry. He now provides

all phases of dental implant dentistry, cosmetic

dentistry and full mouth rehabilitation in South Park.

DEBORAH WILLIAMS is the owner and president of

Professional Consultant Group Inc., serving clients in

hospitality, transportation, aviation, food, wine, packaging,

real estate, media, health & beauty, fashion, and

multiple medical specialties since 1994. Her love of

marketing, media and helping others achieve their goals

is the passion that drives her company. She lives in

Charlotte with her husband, J.D.


CHARLOTTE EAST

East Side Explosion

There is a population explosion in Charlotte, and the

east side is bursting with color, life and energy in a

multi-cultural transformation that keeps on evolving.

TEXT BY KATHY BUCKLEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY BLUESKY PHOTO ARTISTS

There is no place like home in East Charlotte where colorful sights and sweet sounds fill this vibrant community. Old homes and once sleepy streets are being reborn,

as the next generation populates lovely old neighborhoods. There is a sensory overload in the air that will make you feel alive.


The shops in Plaza Midwood have changed throughout

the years, but the streets are busy with people, music

and pups when the sun goes down every evening.

The Charlotte city skyline can be seen in the distance,

and there are surprises around every corner.

Bojangles’ Coliseum and Ovens

Auditorium Connector Underway

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CHARLOTTE REGIONAL VISITORS AUTHORITY

CHARLOTTE EAST

Since 1955, kids of all ages have flocked to East Charlotte for performances,

hockey games and all sorts of entertainment at Ovens Auditorium and Bojangles'

Coliseum, formerly known as “the Coliseum”. The historic domed arena was

unlike any other in its time, and both venues have a special place in the city's

history. The buildings will soon be connected, and guests will truly enjoy the

beautiful renovation when they visit. Groundbreaking took place on August, 28,

2018. Turning the dirt are Blumenthal VP of Theater Operations Bill Dantos,

Charlotte Checkers COO Tera Black, Mayor Vi Lyles, CRVA CEO Tom Murray, City

Council Member Larken Egleston, Bojangles’/Ovens General Manager Cathy

Buchhofer, and CRVA VP of Venues Steve Bagwell.

REMEMBER WHEN...

Almost everyone who has lived in Charlotte can share

special memories of concerts and events they have

enjoyed at the Coliseum or Ovens. Some may have

seen Elvis, Billy Graham, Bob Dylan, Aretha Franklin

or Bruce Springsteen, yet they still love the shows,

sports and fun that light up Independence Boulevard.

For many thousands of tiny dancers and musicians,

Ovens Auditorium is where they first performed on

stage. My first solo at Miss Donna’s dance recital was

a thrill I will never forget.

CHARLOTTE LIVING | 21

CHARLOTTE EAST

On the Sidewalks of Central

Day Trippin’ in the Heart of East Charlotte

The busy corner of Central Avenue and The Plaza is a treasure trove of old and new, and it is bright with color and personaity.

These streets tell the story of Charlotte’s rich history and the exciting explosion of people and creative energy that is filling the atmosphere.

The neighborhoods are diverse and eclectic, and the style on the street reflects the soul of East Charlotte.

22 | CHAR LOTTE LIVING

CHARLOTTE EAST

East Charlotte gives you the sense of nostalgia. It’s

like a twinge in your heart that is delicate, yet potent,

far more powerful than memory alone. East Charlotte

vibes can feel like a time machine – something that

once was, but with a spark of what is.

The trends in East Charlotte can transport you

across the decades with the young embracing the

future of this great city, the architecture and street

style to remind you of a dance between what was


and what will be, much like the fashion trend we

are embracing.

Matching sets. Two for one, yes please! All colors,

any textile. Matchy-matchy for the win! A ’70s trend

that is overtaking our logic for separates.

Bodysuits were first worn by Bettie Page in the

’50s, again in pop culture in the ’60s, and always a

trademark for a sexy, flirty flare – then again in the

’80s as a mainstream fashion statement – and now

a steady, eddie in every girl’s arsenal. Much like patch

work pieces from past decades, it’s reinstalling itself

on the runways for FW18 and SS19.

In our beloved East Charlotte neighborhoods,

homegrown artistry is strong and thriving. Local

artists featured here are Geoflora, Black and Silver,

and Mona Anom. Clothing designers are Susana

Monaco, Free People, Bobi Black LA, and Pharaoh.

Shop the sidewalks of Central for unique treasures.

COLORFUL SCENERY

Murals and street art are

appearing all around the area,

such as the giant blue and

purple painting of Neptune on

the side of Bank of America

next to the Dairy Queen which

opened in 1950 on Central

Avenue at Pecan.

SPECIAL THANKS

Charlotte Living would like to

thank the Tim Smyre of Fifteen

Ten Antiques for his assistance

and location; Tracy Sanchez

for styling; Zenia McCants for

makeup; Jonathan Phillipe

for hair; Summerbird and Lipp

Boutiques for clothing; Debbie

Williams for project development

and coordination; and models

Taylor Drake from Directions USA

and Dell Lewis.

CHARLOTTE EAST

East Side Legacy

Aldersgate Celebrates 70 Years of Honoring Elders BY KATHY BUCKLEY

MISSION: We honor elders and are committed to

creating and fostering diverse, caring communities

where everyone has a voice and value.

In springtime colorful azaleas adorn the naturalistic campus with its wooded paths, a three-hole, par-three golf course and a private stocked lake.

When I recently visited Aldersgate for the first time

in many decades, it was far more expansive than I

ever imagined. The sprawling campus is green and

serene, but the activity and construction all around

is mind blowing. Aldersgate is a very busy place.

This extraordinary Life Plan Community was

founded as a home for retired Methodist ministers

and their spouses in 1943. Brothers Eugene M. Cole

and Rev. Edwin O. Cole donated the 180-acre

Hezekiah Alexander farm to the Western NC

Conference of the Methodist Church who broke

ground on The Methodist Home in 1947. As a child I

remember thinking that the “old folks home” was a

place where sick people went when their lives were

over. Oh, how things have changed, and for many

seniors, some of their best days lie ahead in the thriving

Aldersgate community.

CEO Suzanne Pugh volunteered at Aldersgate as a

teen and then began working there 22 years ago.

She has seen the incredible transformation take place.

Suzanne has served as CEO for the last seven years

and carries out the vision, developed by the board

and leadership, to embrace their place in the East

Charlotte community as a true partner. She is proud

of their outreach, including being able to serve residents

from the surrounding Charlotte community in


their Asbury Health and Rehab Center. “We want to be

welcoming and inclusive,” she says. “There is no gate

at our new entrance for a reason.”

The sprawling 231-acre campus is tucked away off

Shamrock Drive in East Charlotte, and you would never

know it existed unless you turned in at the light on

Willard Farrow Dr. Aldersgate is one of the largest

green spaces in Mecklenburg County and is located

just minutes from Uptown in the most diverse area

of the city. Nearby neighborhoods have been infused

with international colors and flavors while maintaining

the southern hospitality of old timers like me.

For 70 years Aldersgate has been advocating for

our aging community, and their evolution is rich in

history. Here are just a few of the highlights:

• In 1963 the Wesley Nursing Center opened with

248 skilled nursing beds.

• The Supplemental Assistance Fund was started in

1969 to help struggling residents with financing.

• The Charlotte Museum of History was built in

1975 on the property by the Mint Museum.

• In 1999 The Methodist Home was renamed to

Aldersgate, which is the London street where John

Wesley experienced the “confirmation of his salvation

by the grace of God.”

• In 2000 expansion plans were announced with

new apartments, cottages, a memory support

assisted living facility and a community center.

ourBRIDGE for KIDS, a nonprofit after-school program

for immigrant and refugee children, operates

on Aldersgate’s 231-acre campus.

CHARLOTTE EAST

• In 2015 a major expansion was planned adding

62 apartments and villas, state-of-the-art skilled

nursing addition and a renovation/expansion of

memory support.

• The 125-bed Asbury Health and Rehabilitation

Center opened in the fall of 2017 providing skilled

care in a patient-centric environment which is a

dramatic shift from traditional institutional care.

• The 70-million dollar expansion, the “Gateway

Promise”, with 62 new apartments, villas and

an amenity-rich Commons area for residents to

enjoy, will be completed this fall. It also includes

Aldersgate’s promise to the greater community to

invigorate East Charlotte in a way that will positively

impact youth, family and senior living.

Community Leader in Action

Aldersgate is committed to be a catalyst for inclusiveness,

intergenerational engagement, advocacy

for elders and greater community enrichment. Their

commitment can be seen in action all over the property.

OurBRIDGEforKids moved to the Aldersgate

campus in June 2017 as an after-school program for

immigrant and refugee children. The Urban Farm at

Aldersgate is a working farm coming soon to help

eastside neighbors enjoy healthy produce. Elders

at Aldersgate work with CMS students in a fourweek

summer reading camp designed to improve

children’s literacy.

Aldersgate recently earned platinum status (the

highest level possible) from SAGECare, the training

and consulting division of New York-based SAGE

(Services & Advocacy for LGBTQ elders). Aldersgate is

the first senior living community on the East Coast

to earn this designation.

The Legacy Lives On

Progress often requires sacrifice, and when residents

learned that the Gateway expansion would bring

down two beloved trees, they were very sad. A Deodar

Cedar and a giant White Oak had to be removed

during construction. The Deodar Cedar, brought from

Israel in 1947, held a strong emotional attachment

among residents and staff. The giant White Oak

was estimated to be 214-220 years-old by a double

counting of its rings. Residents had the outstanding

idea of repurposing wood from the trees, and architect

Faron Franks of Shook Kelley brought in sculptor

Anatoly Tsiris to save the day.

Anatoly is a charming and humble artist from

Ukraine who created beautiful pieces of art from the

wood to keep its legacy alive. Franks says, “Anatoly

brings out its character through process and ‘divines’

the way the wood will best work.” The artistic pieces

now adorn the Cuthbertson Memory Care Town

Center and Meditation Garden, the new Commons

area, Asbury Health and Rehabilitation Center, the

chapel, staircase and main lobby for residents to

admire. When asked how he knows what to make

out of the wood, Anatoly simply said, “I feel it.”

Aldersgate is an active Life Plan Community

PHOTOGRAPH BY GERIN CHOINIERE

Aldersgate CEO Suzanne Pugh collaborated

with artist Anatoly Tsiris, who created inspired

works of art from two special trees that were

cut down in the Gateway expansion.

that serves 450 residents and an additional 600-

700 individuals a year through Asbury Health &

Rehabilitation. The nonprofit promotes wellness,

diversity and a caring community where everyone

has a voice and value. Visit aldersgateccrc.com for

more information.

CHARLOTTE LI V I NG | 27

CHARLOTTE EAST

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHERYL HOKE

International Sandwich Festival

Aldersgate Hosts the Community for the

Best Bites and Bands of East Charlotte

Neighbors and residents of Aldersgate came out for a fun-filled day of music, food

and festivities at the third annual International Sandwich Festival on April 28, 2018.

Happy 70th Birthday, Aldersgate! Thanks

for bringing your community together.

East Charlotte is culturally

diverse, and the Sandwich

Festival is an intergenerational

celebration with lively

entertainment and fun for

everyone.


CHARLOTTE EAST

A Tribute to an East Charlotte Advocate

For the third year, Aldersgate invited

its neighbors for a big lawn party,

and everyone who came had a ball.

“Our wooded campus is 231 acres,”

said Erin Barbee, Aldersgate’s director

of mission advancement and

chair of this year’s festival. “It’s an

honor to host everyone – and especially

our eastside neighbors.”

Kids of all ages enjoyed music, dancing, “creative”

sandwich-making, free face painting, balloon

artistry and delicious food from all over the world.

The celebration was emceed by Hardin Minor.

By: Maureen Gilewski, Co-Chair CharlotteEAST

I met David High in 2016 when he joined the

CharlotteEAST board. David was employed as the

Director of Strategic Planning and Development

at Aldersgate Continuing Care Retirement

Community (CCRC), a highly respected 70-year

East Charlotte non-profit business. In 2017, David

became an active voice on the CharlotteEAST

board, and began sharing with me Aldersgate’s

community mission. Aldersgate was well into

their mission to open the gates and embrace the

diverse East Charlotte community beyond them.

David was 100% on board with

the mission, because not only

was Aldersgate talking about

East Charlotte’s economic and

social capital issues, they

were also walking the walk by

investing in the community.

At CharlotteEAST, David was

Chair of our Neighborhood Task

Force, which was a natural

complement to the mission of

Aldersgate. In April 2018, under his direction, the

Neighborhood Task Force had its first East community

leadership meeting called T3 – Together

Towards Tomorrow.

David quickly became a familiar face and

voice in the East community. To launch the mission,

he contacted neighborhood leaders and

began attending neighborhood meetings.

David spoke enthusiastically about the process

Aldersgate was using to build relationships

with the diverse communities of people surrounding

their 231-acre campus. In early 2017,

David invited me to attend the pilot Story Circle

Group used for community engagement. By the

end of that same year, the community relationship

building phase was complete. Although

David was not a resident of the East Charlotte

community, he was a huge champion. He established

numerous relationships with area

residents, businesses, non-profits, and elected

officials. David was always eager to engage and

connect with new partners. If I suggested he

introduce someone to Aldersgate and the East

Charlotte community to advance the mission,

he readily accepted and scheduled a personal

tour of the property and a chat about the mission.

His passion for the mission was contagious!

Sadly, David passed away unexpectedly on

July 12, 2018. He led the way for the East community

on this remarkable mission. We saw

him engage and partner with respect and inclusiveness

in our diverse community.


CHARLOTTE EAST

HISTORICAL STYLE

at the Charlotte Museum of History

TEXT BY RICHARD PATTISON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GERIN CHOINIERE

We've all been told there's nothing new under the

sun, but were that totally true, this existence would

be quite a boring one. So let's agree to the real truth

that changing a detail or two in what has been

before will result in something that truly is new

under the sun. In the world of style, subtle changes

in design, innovation or improvements in quality

can, in fact, create newness.

This newness is perfectly illustrated in Herno's

down-filled red jacket, as shown here modeled by

Emily. The almost weightless quality of this piece is

a result of Herno's innovative methods of removing

the quill of each and every feather, of creating super

lightweight zippers and of using a paper-thin yet

sturdy outer shell. Similarly, Barba's luxurious

leather baseball jacket, as worn by Luke in these

images, is crafted from supple lamb suede that is

extremely light and durable. Its knitted cuffs, waistband

and collar are tastefully tailored in navy blue to

add a certain sense of style to a classic design. Even

the lining, made of a lightweight striped flannel

men's suiting fabric and unseen by everyone but the

wearer, adds to the unique quality of this remarkable

piece of outerwear.

These and many other innovations are to be

found in the pieces shown in this article, so artfully

photographed at the Charlotte Museum of History,

an apt setting that illustrates the truth that although

there may not really be anything new under the sun,

there's always a fresh way of looking at it.

CELEBRATE CHARLOTTE’S 250TH BIRTHDAY AT

THE CHARLOTTE MUSEUM OF HISTORY

The story of how this Native American territory

became a colonial outpost, a new American city, a

place of thriving commerce, and finally the metropolitan

city we see today should not be forgotten.

The Charlotte Museum of History is proud to be

the steward of the Hezekiah Alexander Homesite

and to preserve and share this treasure with local

students and the visiting public. As the only home in

our area that was built before the American

Revolution, when Charlotte was still our Queen, we

hope you will visit this very special cultural and

community cornerstone.

The Charlotte Museum of History is located at

3500 Shamrock Drive, Charlotte, NC 28215. Visit

charlottemuseum.org for more information.

“... you kind of believe there's nothing

new under the sun, but there's always a

fresh way of looking at something.”

– Jacki Weaver

THE ROCK HOUSE

The Revolutionary War-era home of Hezekiah

Alexander was built in 1774, and the two-story

stone house is the oldest surviving structure in

Mecklenburg County. The house is listed on the

National Register of Historic Places.


EMILY – Herno red puffer jacket,

Parker Smith front seam denims,

Lamberto Losani black cashmere

flower sweater, Majestic grey tank,

Eleventy grey beanie with fox fur

puff ball, Peserico tan and grey

suede sneakers

LUKE – Barba double-zip baseball

jacket in camel suede with navy knit

details, Raleigh Denim dark wash

jeans, Sanfort chambray sport shirt,

Orciani suede & wool flannel sport

belt, To Boot New York double-monk

strap suede boots

THE SPRINGHOUSE

The springhouse had multiple

uses, the most important

being food preservation.

Inside the lower level of the

springhouse, natural spring

water still flows over a floor

of bedrock.

EMILY Seventy floral blouse in navy,

rose & wine, Incotex wide leg pant

in navy, Harris Wharf London 3/4

length 2 button heather blue coat,

W. Bracelets, W.Britt silver hoop

earrings, Santoni tobacco booties,

Created Beautifully hair on hide tote

LUKE Eleventy boiled wool sportswear

jacket in navy, Sanfort

brushed cotton plaid sport shirt,

Hiltl 5-pocket sport pants in grey

wool flannel, Orciani vintage sport

belt in oiled chocolate suede,

Andrea Zori sport boot in dark

brown calf

CHARLOTTE EAST

THE LOG KITCHEN

Eighteenth-century kitchens were often separate

structures from the house because of the danger of

fire. The log kitchen is located behind the rock house.


CHARLOTTE EAST

EXHIBITS & EVENTS AT THE MUSEUM

Explore Charlotte’s rich history and art in the

modern galleries and exhibitions at the Museum of

History which is a beautiful venue for special events

and occasions.

Pictured at right:

EMILY Piazza Sempione plum v-neck tailored dress,

W.Kleinberg cigar color crocodile handbag with Massimo

Bizzocchi handkerchief, Brunello Cucinelli necklace, 2

Milliana bracelets, W. Britt gold earrings, Santoni tobacco

booties

LUKE Ermenegildo Zegna cashmere/silk/wool wine &

navy sports jacket, TRC cashmere zip polo in marled grey

cashmere, Canali grey on white striped dress shirt, Altea

striped silk knit tie, Incotex slim fit wool flannel trousers in

charcoal grey, To Boot New York nubuk suede lace-ups in

dark olive

Pictured on opposite page:

EMILY Walter Voulaz white button fancy sleeve blouse,

Hartford navy rabbit fur vest, Incentive grey suede leggings,

Santoni black booties, W. Kleinberg croc navy cuff, W.Britt

silver hoop earrings

LUKE Eleventy nylon & wool sport vest in charcoal grey,

Eleventy herringbone jogger-style pant in charcoal grey,

John Smedley popcorn knit crew over Good Life cotton tee,

Eleventy taupe suede sneaker

SPECIAL THANKS

Charlotte Living would like to thank the Charlotte Museum

of History for our extraordinary location and their gracious

hospitality; Richard Pattison, Taylor Richards & Conger, for

men’s styling; Martha Jones, TRC W, for women’s styling;

Zenia McCants for makeup; Sonja Woodard, Sharper Image

Hair Salon, for hair; TRC W for women’s clothing; Taylor

Richards & Conger for men’s clothing; Debbie Williams,

Professional Consultant Group, for project development and

coordination; and models Luke Gentlesk and Emily Miner

from Directions USA.

Taylor Richards & Conger, trcstyle.com, 704.366.9092

TRC W, trcstyle.com, 704.366.2905

Professional Consultant Group,

Debbie@pcgmeansresults.com, 704.231.4724

Zenia McCants, zenia_mccants@belk.com

Sonja Woodard. 803.446.2123

Directions USA, directionsusa.com, 336.292.2800


STYLE FILE

TEXT BY HADE E. ROBINSON, JR.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GERIN CHOINIERE & COURTESY OF JOE GIBBS RACING

NASCAR on the Fashion Track

A few months ago, I got a stylist appointment call for

a young man who needed a few fashion items and a

complete look for an upcoming event. Once meeting

him, I realized he was a rising star with NASCAR –

Erik Jones.

Now, I knew nothing about NASCAR, but he

quickly gave me the “CliffsNotes” version on what

I needed to know to at least have an intelligent

conversation. One being that he is the driver of the

No. 20 car – racing a Toyota Camry; and the second

being, he is a member of Joe Gibbs Racing. But as

much as he educated me on NASCAR, I could teach

him some great styling points.

The styling experience with Erik was so fun, I

knew he was a must for a magazine feature. The

plan was to see him out of his racing gear, but to

show off his cool personality in a relaxed and fashionable

way, which I knew his fans would enjoy.

I want to thank Erik for saying YES to do this feature

and opening his race car studio to the Charlotte

Living crew to do this photo shoot. Another big

thanks to his assistant Amy Stein for giving us so

much support and access.

Erik – Topman Sport Coat,

Hugo Boss V-neck T-shirt &

Pants, Eton Pocket Square.

Jones earned his first Monster Energy NASCAR Cup

Series victory on the famed Daytona International

Speedway in July of 2018

Olivia – Robert Rodriguez

Dress, Bauble Bar Earrings


SPECIAL THANKS

Charlotte Living would like to thank Erik Jones and

Amy Stein for their time and gracious hospitality;

Joe Gibbs Racing for our location; Hade Robinson

and Justin Small, Nordstrom, for styling; Nordstrom

for clothing; model Olivia Aldridge; Josie Boytek for

hair and makeup; Kalli Fletcher for makeup;

Jonathan Phillipe for hair; Charlotte Seen, Charlotte

Fashion Week, Berhan Nebioglu and Rita Miles for

model coordination.

Blank NYC Leather Jacket,

TopShop Blouse & Skirt,

Bauble Bar Earrings

Erik Jones “Fun Facts”

• Birthdate – May 30, 1996

• Hometown – Byron, Michigan

• Website – ErikJonesRacing.com

• Favorite Sports Team – Detroit Lions,

University of Michigan Football

• Hobbies – Scuba Diving and Golf

Erik Jones on Social Media Network

• Twitter - @Erik_Jones

• Instagram - @Erik_Jones

• Facebook - /ErikJonesRacing


Erik - Bonobos Suit, Theory T-Shirt, Goodman

Brand Sneakers, Nordstrom Pocket Square

Olivia – Topshop Dress & Blouse, Marc Jacobs

Handbag, Valentino Shoes, Bauble Bar Earrings

We Put The Fun In Funky

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CHARLOTTE CHIC

The Costume Designer

Maria Ortiz (The Costume Designer) is an incredibly

passionate designer and seamstress who has been

sewing since the age of eight-years-old. As a young

adult she studied theater and graduated with a

Bachelor's Degree from the University of North

Carolina in Charlotte while also interning for Disney

in Orlando, Florida.

Since graduating Maria has worked with several

dance and theatre companies including CPCC

Summer Theatre, The Children’s Theatre, CAST

(Carolina Actors Studio Theatre), as well as several

groups within the Carolina Rennaissance Festival.

Today she creates customized pieces for individuals

and groups including dancewear of all varieties,

unique costumes inspired by various pop culture fandoms

and beautiful one of a kind bridal gowns.

Maria can be contacted through her website at

www.thecostumedesigneronline.com


BY SHERRI JOHNSON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GERIN CHOINIERE AND COURTESY OF NAJAM USMANI

Redefining His American Dream

How a Boy from Pakistan Became a Man of

this Country with an Unstoppable Purpose

Most people who’ve come to know Najam Usmani,

either by way of his gifts or the honor of his company,

will tell you that his spirit is contagious. He’s a

self-proclaimed entrepreneur, who found excellence

in his DNA through hard work, determination and

the notion that failure was never an option. This is

the story of a man who lived what he thought was

the American Dream, until he realized instead that

his American Dream is tied to his legacy and the

unselfish road ahead – giving back and paying forward

what he earned and learned over the past

thirty years.

Perfect Stranger

Growing up in Pakistan as the oldest son of eleven

children, Najam took on jobs and became a tutor at

an early age to help his parents. He dreamed of one

day going to America, but when he shared his dream

with others, they laughed and said it would never

happen. Najam faced the challenge with fearlessness

and naive determination.

Najam came to the U.S. from Karachi, Pakistan at

the age of 19, where his only reference to the

American way of life was the TV sitcom, Perfect

Strangers. Minnesota State University Moorhead is

not the windy city he’d seen on television, but

nonetheless, he settled in to gain an education and

pursue the American Dream. He self-funded his education

as a finance major and computer science

minor, where he bucked the belief that technology is

the target. Instead, he felt that it’s the people using it,

and making business run, who are at the core of

everything.

“Human connection is essential no matter how

technologically savvy we become,” says Najam. This

is a belief that led him toward a lifetime of connections,

collaborations and exploration.

After college, he did everything from stocking

shelves to selling insurance. Then Najam focused his

career on Information Technology (IT); and in 1996,


he was one of the first 500 to be named Microsoft

Certified Service Engineer (MCSE) by Bill Gates,

which allowed his career and income to soar and his

focus to shift to a new entrepreneurial spirit.

Years later he bought his first Jackson Hewitt Tax

Service franchise, which is where he learned that it’s

people he likes to lead. He built his business on

ethics, integrity and handshakes, asking his employees

every day, “How may I help YOU?”

“Motivating my employees to help them reach

their goals was way more gratifying to me than

growing the numbers,” says Najam. “In the end, it

was the best thing for the company, too,” says

Najam, who multiplied his business to nearly

50 franchises in his people-centric organization.

Philanthropy and Flipping Houses

As a side business, Najam began dabbling in real

estate. He enjoyed bringing people together to

accomplish something tangible. Epic Holdings was

not your ordinary real estate company – it was a

tightly knit team that moved fast and made a profit

– of which five percent was allocated toward community

charities.

“We acquired and rehabbed about 50 properties

including single family homes and townhomes in

just three years,” says Najam. “We were beautifying

neighborhoods, but we were also changing lives.” He

trusted and empowered his team to do extraordinary

work together and began his practice of giving

5% of the profit to local causes.

According to Najam, he found his purpose

through the joy (and success) he realized by helping

people. Whether supporting education initiatives

from the Governor’s office, or serving local charities

like Loaves & Fishes, Allegro Foundation...A Champion

for Children with Disabilities or Steve Smith

Family Foundation, it was more satisfying than any

other bottom line benefit he knew in corporate

America. To him, THIS was the American Dream.

Impacting the Next Generation

With children of his own, he noticed the need for

nurturing greatness in young people, specifically

high school students. Najam’s idea of bringing mentors

and high school kids together brought about the

birth of Champ Camp. He covers all the costs and

will be taking it to colleges and universities free of

charge with plans to register as 501 (c) organization.

“Champ Camp was started to fill a gap in our education

system and give kids face-to-face exposure

with professionals in all areas of business,” says

Najam. “They can ask questions at our high octane

events, where they dress up and spend the day at a

country club meeting mentors.”

It wasn’t until he was invited to speak at his college

alma mater that his purpose grew, and his scope

expanded to include college students. He realized

that his life learnings could be a big benefit during

this critical stage in life – from deciding a career path

to being the best employee to grow your career.

“I’m now extending Champ Camp to Universities,”

says Najam, “because I want young adults to know

that having an entrepreneurial mindset doesn’t

Senator Tim Kaine

Impacting young lives at Champ Camp

mean you have to fund a start-up. If kids develop

that mentality before they enter the workforce, they

will take pride, take initiative and set goals as if it

were their own business.”

Najam is not a motivational speaker nor a Life

Coach, but he does hope that his life events will

inspire others to create greatness.

“This is MY American Dream – I want my life to be

counted,” says Najam. “If we don’t invest in our next

generation, who will?”

Najam believes that greatness begins with gratitude

and is forever grateful for this country. He and his

wife Farah were recently awarded the 2018 Mayor’s

International Community Award for Global Leadership

by Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles.

Najam Usmani can help create a winning mindset and a

culture of cooperation in your business. For more information

visit najamusmani.com or call 252.592.4810.

Bringing Back the Human Touch

Najam Usmani is a natural born teacher who

loves to share colorful stories and lessons learned

from his vast experiences. He found that success

comes from being truthful, compassionate and

doing your best at every job. Serving others and

seeking win-win solutions has always been his goal.

Creating a culture of collaboration

in the workplace


MIND, BODY & SOUL

BY REV. TONY MARCIANO,

CHARLOTTE RESCUE MISSION

When I was in grades K-3, my mother thought it was

great if she could send her son to school in a button

down white shirt, dress slacks and a clip-on bow-tie.

By the time I was in third grade, all the cool kids were

wearing shirts that were plaid or had stripes. My

mother insisted I wear a white shirt with a clip-on

bow-tie. Since this was long before the days of

Woodstock rebellion, I’m not sure exactly what

happened, but I said, “No, I will no longer have a

target on my back that says, ‘kick me‘ – I look like a

momma’s boy.”

Perhaps I threatened to go to school naked, I don’t

remember, but a short time later, the clip-on bow-ties

were left at home. My shirts had color. I had shirts

that were plaid or striped. All the girls oohed and

awed at me. (Ok – I’m exaggerating here. I’m not sure

there was ever a time in my life that women fainted

at the site of me.) My life changed; I was now “cool.”

The day of my college graduation picture, I took a

page out of my third grade playbook. I wore a big

green crushed velour bow tie, yellow shirt, plaid suit,

matching plaid suit jacket and kelly green pants.

Wait, the best is yet to come. I didn’t cut my hair for

four and a half months. Remember the song by

Crosby, Stills and Nash, “Almost Cut My Hair”? That

was me. I wanted to see how long I could grow it.

Unlike anyone else in that era who had long straight

hair, I had naturally curly hair. It looked like an Afro. I

owned an Afro pick that was black with red and

green handles.

My mother saw me in the bathroom that morning

fixing my hair and said, “NO.” She hated my high

school graduation picture. She was going to redeem

my college graduation picture. She got a pair of scissors

and started to attack my hair in the bathroom. I

remember standing in front of the mirror when she

cut off a piece of my hair. It’s the only time I yelled at

my mother and said, “STOP. You are not cutting my

hair.” Whenever I look at that picture, I can tell the

exact spot she cut.

I always thought if I wore the right clothes that

were fashionable at that time, I would “fit in”, be

“accepted”, and be part of the “cool group”. A

few years ago, I wore my Hawaiian shirt to

a church event. All the guys wore golf

shirts. While the minister had everyone

bow their heads, close their eyes and

pray, I slipped out and went home. I

would have stuck out like a sore

thumb.

There is a Bible story where

Samuel is selecting the next king

after Saul. It would be one of

Jesse’s sons. When he meets the oldest

son Eliab, he says, to himself, “Surely

the LORD’s anointed stands here

before the LORD.” But the LORD said to

Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance

or his height, for I have rejected

him. The LORD does not look at the things

people look at. People look at the outward

appearance, but the LORD looks at the

heart.” It’s about the character of the

person’s heart that makes the individual.

Maybe it’s a flashback to that clip-on tie

from third grade, but today, I enjoy wearing a

dark pin stripe (has to be pin stripe) suit with

a crisp shirt and tie. I still have that green

crushed velour bow-tie from years ago, but it

doesn’t go with a dark pin stripe suit. I know

that it’s not the clothes that make the man;

it’s the man that makes the clothes.

Rev. Tony Marciano is the President/

CEO of the Charlotte Rescue Mission. The

Charlotte Rescue Mission provides a free

long-term Christian recovery program

for men and women who are addicted

to drugs and alcohol. For more

information, visit our website at

www.charlotterescuemission.org


MIND, BODY & SOUL

Relax,Don’t Freeze It

TEXT BY DR. SUMMIT KUNDARIA

More is usually better. There are several examples to

prove this. Ice cream, peanut butter, and the number

of days in a weekend, to name a few. When it comes

to the face, however, moderation is almost always

the winner. One of the first places I see a downfall in

the “more is better” mentality is with the use of

Botox (or one of its cousins, Dysport and Xeomin).

Too many faces, whether at the mall, on television,

or runway, are moving too little, if at all. This needs

to change.

First, a little background. Botox, Dysport, and

Xeomin, are the most common plastic surgical procedure

done worldwide, and involve injected

medication that temporarily relaxes the muscles

they are injected into. The effects last for 3-6 months

in most people, and at the end of this time you

return to your pre-treated look.

The most common places to treat are the frown

lines (the vertical lines between the brows, or “the

11s”), forehead furrows (the horizontal lines across

the forehead), and the crow’s feet (the radial lines

emanating from the outer corners of the eyes).

Additional treatments can be of the “bunny lines” of

the nose, the vertical neck bands, and the jawline

slimming treatment of the massater muscles,

though the vast majority of use is in the upper third

of the face.

The natural history of the skin of the face is that it

starts out thick, rich in collagen and elastin, proteins

that give the skin volume and resilience. Inserted

into the skin are muscles to move the face, enabling

you to make expressions, such as raising your brow,

smiling, and squinting (though not necessarily all at

the same time). The muscles keep moving your face

as time passes, but the skin continues to thin over

time, losing collagen and elastin, and the thickness

of youth. The muscles eventually pull a line in the

skin, which is initially only present with motion, but

with time become etched lines, or wrinkles, that we

see in the mirror at rest.

Lines that are present only with motion (such as

the frown lines in a young face) can be treated before

they become etched into the skin. This treatment is

aimed at prevention. Lines that are already present

at rest can be treated so they are less deep at rest,

and to slow their progression.

The problem arises when faces are over treated,

and they “freeze”. They are not moving at rest, and


they also cannot move with effort. Why is this a

problem? Because our faces are made to convey

emotion. A mismatch in expressive motion of the

face between the upper half and lower half is perceived

as “strange” by an observer, even though they

may not be able to pinpoint why it feels so.

Being able to show emotion is an integral part of

non-verbal communication. Someone looks at us

with a happy face, and our face instinctively mirrors

that emotion. This is called emotional resonance.

This emotional resonance is interrupted when one

face is unable to express, as the communication loop

cannot be completed.

A study done in France in 2012 compared children

who used pacifiers during the daytime (impairing

their emotional resonance) with their counterparts

that had no pacifier use. They found that children

that had extended daytime pacifier use at a young

age showed decreased emotional engagement compared

to their peers even 5 and 18 years after

stopping pacifier use. There have been follow-up

studies to this as well, but this result alone showed

that emotional resonance is important in day to day

life. It’s easy to take these results too far, though you

can see how it may apply to communication

between adults.

I am not suggesting that using Botox to relax the

facial muscles is going to give us long term emotional

impairment, but I am also trying to convey

that it may have consequences. These effects may be

felt in your daily life as you communicate with your

peers and family, even if they seem invisible. That is

why I promote relaxation, not full paralysis, of the

facial muscles during cosmetic treatments. Having

less motion at rest, with the retained ability to move

with volition, is the goal of treatment, and should

preserve our nonverbal communication. Furthermore,

using less looks more natural and is lower in

cost, making it a win-win for all.

If you have questions or would like to know more,

contact Dr. Summit Kundaria at Nuance Facial Plastics,

704.593.6802 or email doctor@nuancefacialplastics.com.

To learn about the latest surgical and non-surgical

options, visit nuancefacialplastics.com.

MIND, BODY & SOUL

YourBeautifulSmile

TEXT BY DR. RAMESH SUNAR, DMD

They say your eyes are the window to your soul, but the window to your health

is your mouth. Let me add the following new axiom: the window to your personality

and confidence is your smile.

A smile adds an unfathomable amount of confidence to one’s personality. You

cannot put a dollar value to it. In today’s business world, one’s confidence can be

the difference between joblessness and boundless success. And, one of the currencies

for this confidence is, needless to say, a beautiful smile.

No wonder Americans spent $8 billion dollars just last year on cosmetic dentistry

alone, and that figure is only going to go up. One may blame our vanity for

this splurge, but we cannot rule out our obsession to buy confidence. If you analyze

the flip side of this argument, one will be pleasantly surprised to find the

dawn of a new awareness in the world of dental/oral health. Americans overall

are better today in their oral/dental health than ever. So, this stampede to a

better smile is doing some good in the long run.

Let’s talk about dental implants. There is no need to pontificate about what

implants have done to dentistry. One simply has to google the words “dental

implant” and will come away with a wealth of information and, perhaps, welleducated

as well.

Allow me present to you the example of Kathy, the editor-in-chief of this magazine.

She came to me with her concern of being very self-conscious of her smile

because she was missing one of her teeth, and the gap showed when she smiled.

Kathy had done her homework and knew about implants, plus she was a perfect

candidate for implant-based restoration. The result came out perfectly, and now

Kathy can’t stop smiling. I asked her the secret of her confidence, and her answer

was: A New Smile!

I am a firm believer that God-given teeth are the best implants in our mouth.

Being an Endodontist, a root canal specialist, I do my best to save teeth; however,

there are times one must resort to implants. Implants have certainly changed the

way I look at a clinical case. I have been placing and restoring them since 2007,

and it has been a very gratifying experience. Implants are the best way to restore

missing teeth in your mouth.

As mentioned above, I am first and foremost an Endodontist, a profession that

deals primarily in relieving people from pain and preserving the teeth. However,

when I realized that there are some teeth that cannot be saved, it bothered me

that I could not offer an alternative. So after intense training in implant dentistry,

I established Charlotte Dental Implant Center and have been doing implants for

over ten years.

Implants that are needed in the front part of the mouth, also called the

esthetic zone, require a dentist who is very well versed in their technique and

knowledge. Therefore in 2015 I went to Los Angeles for a full 2-year residency to

train in cosmetic and full mouth rehabilitation which completed my training to

give a full knowledge and experience not only implant dentistry but also cosmetic

dentistry.

If you are self-conscious because of your teeth, check out the options available

to give you back your smile. It is the window to your health and happiness.

At Charlotte Dental Implant Center, we provide all phases of dental implant

dentistry, cosmetic dentistry and full mouth rehabilitation. For more information

visit charlottedentalimplantcenter.com or call 704.375.4252.


Lee Kieffer

Realtor ® /Broker

Lee Kieffer Residential Real Estate, Inc.

704-956-3169

www.somewhereyouwilllove.com

Helping

You Find

Somewhere

Love.

You Will

VERY CULINARY

TEXT BY HEIDI BILLOTTO

PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE BEAUTIFUL MESS PHOTOGRAPHY

RECAP OF THE 2018 NCRLA CHEF SHOWDOWN

When North Carolina chefs gather, deliciously local things begin to happen

Charlotte Living’s own Heidi Billotto with all the participating chefs from the 2018 NCRLA Chef Showdown

As food editor and writer for Charlotte Living, I also

do quite a bit of freelance work and am in contact

with chefs and restaurants across the state. I am

delighted to share this story as it was my pleasure to

once again work with the North Carolina Restaurant

& Lodging Association (NCRLA) to help organize and

host this annual event showcasing the talent of

North Carolina chefs from the mountains to the

coast. Enjoy every bite! – Cheers, Heidi

Now in its third year, the NCRLA Chef Showdown

originally started as a fun twist on the Monday night

“dinner” event held in conjunction with the annual

NCRLA Expo.

NCRLA members, all active participants in the

hospitality industry are invited to attend the annual

NCRLAExpo each year. The expo is a unique two-day

trade show/exhibition/seminar event which connects

the North Carolina restaurant and lodging industries

for an all-inclusive program of education and an

exposition of the latest products, services and technologies

from across the state. As such, the Expo

creates a forum for this stellar group of industry professionals

to discuss state-of-the-art practices and

innovative ideas affecting restaurant and hospitality

businesses today.

The 2018 Expo took place in Charlotte at the

Charlotte Convention Center on Monday, Aug. 27

and Tuesday, Aug. 28. The NCRLA Chef Showdown is


still held on the first night of the Expo, but since that

first year it has grown by leaps and bounds into an

event all its own.

The mission of the NCRLA Chef Showdown is to

celebrate and recognize the talent of North Carolina

chefs and mixologists. The North Carolina Department

of Agriculture is the event’s presenting sponsor and

the event is the state's premier culinary competition.

With that “eat and drink local” tie in, chefs and

mixologists are asked as they conceptualize their

plate or cocktail, to incorporate all the GotToBeNC

local product that can get on the plate and in the glass.

This year’s Chef Showdown, started in January

2018 with a call to apply. 50 + chefs responded; 30 of

whom were invited to participate in one of three

semi-final rounds held across the state. The venues

hosting the regional semi finals are all excellent

restaurants in their own rite - all places to put on

your must-try list. They include Highland Avenue in

Hickory NC; Lawson’s landing in New Bern NC and

Vidrio in Raleigh NC. Same creds go to our host

venue for the finals: Aria Tuscan Grill at Founders Hall

in the Bank of America Center in Uptown Charlotte.

The twenty-one top scoring chefs from the semi

final rounds were invited to participate in the

August 27 NCRLA Chef Showdown in Charlotte.

At the competition, each of the chefs served the

excited crowd sample-sized offerings of each dish;

but only 12 chefs - those with the highest semi final

round scores - took the next step to the final round of

competition, presenting their dishes to a panel of

judges, live onstage.

With two Judges’ Tables on stage, Chefs each presented

to a panel of five culinary judges, while six

North Carolina mixologists representing six North

Carolina distilleries presented to a trio of mixology

judges, simultaneously. Meanwhile, the crowd of

some 375-400 attendees walked the room, moving

from chef to chef and bar to bar, eating and drinking

local all along the way. NCRLA Chef Showdowngoers

voted for their favorite dishes and drinks to

determine the People’s Choice award winners for

Best Savory Dish, Best Pastry Dish and Best Specialty

Cocktail.

Lynn Minges, President and CEO of the NCRLA and

Billy Sewell, Chair of the NCRLA Board of Directors

were on hand to welcome guests and present the

awards.

In the end Chef Travis Myers of Willow’s Bistro in

Winston-Salem won the coveted NCRLA Chef of the

Year, while Miranda Brown of Charlotte’s The

Asbury at the Dunhill earned NCRLA Pastry Chef of

the Year. Joe Nicol, Asheville-based mixologist took

home NCRLA Mixologist of the Year awards with a

cocktail he crafted using Greensboro’s Fainting Goat

Sprits, Emulsion Gin.

VERY CULINARY

Heidi Billotto, center, with 2018 NCRLA Chef Showdown panels of judges, from left, Chef Catherine Rabb, Fenwicks in Charlotte; Chef Mark Alison,

Cabarrus Health Alliance; Lisa Bullock Prince, host of Flavor NC; Tim Parrish, NC Department of Agriculture; Chef Scott Crawford, Crawford & Sons

in Raleigh; & Amanda Britton, 2017 NCRLA Mixologist of the Year. Not Pictured, Johnny Caldwell and Taneka Reaves, of The Cocktail Bandits.

HERE IS THE LIST OF THE 2018 WINNERS:

• NCRLA Chef of the Year: Chef Travis Myers of Willow’s

Bistro in Winston-Salem, NVC

• NCRLA Pastry Chef of the Year: Chef Miranda Brown

of The Asbury at the Dunhill Hotel, Charlotte

• NCRLA Mixologist of the Year: Joe Nicol from

Asheville, representing Fainting Goat Spirits of

Greensboro, NC

• People’s Choice Savory Plate honors went to Chef

Thomas Card, Counting House at the 21c Museum

Hotel, Durham

• People’s Choice Pastry Plate went to Chef Anika

Rucker of Fahrenheit Charlotte

• People’s Choice Specialty Cocktail: Hannah Forde-

Smith, mixologist at Chef and the Farmer in Kinston,

NC, representing Mother Earth Spirits also located

in Kinston, NC

• Best Booth Design – Distillery: Sarah Wells, FS Food

Group, Charlotte; representing Durham Distillery in

Durham, NC

The North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging

Association (NCRLA) is the driving force behind North

Carolina’s $23.5 billion restaurant, foodservice and lodging

industries. For more information on the 2019 NCRLA

Chef Showdown, follow the event on social media

feeds or visit the website at ncrla.org/chefshowdown

NCRLA Chef Showdown People’s Choice for

Pastry from Chef Anika Rucker, Fahrenheit

Charlotte NC

NCRLA Chef Showdown Savory People’s Choice

from Chef Thomas Card, The Counting House in

Durham NC

OTHER AWARDS INCLUDED:

• Best Use of a “Got to Be NC” Ingredient – Savory:

Chef Teddy Diggs, Coronato, Chapel Hill, NC

• Best Use of a “Got to Be NC” Ingredient – Pastry: Chef

Cody Middleton, Forsyth Country Club, Winston-

Salem

• Most Creative Presentation – Savory: Chef Brandon

Shepard, Urban Street Eats Catering & Food Truck,

Cedar Point, NC

• Most Creative Presentation – Pastry: Chef Cody

Middleton, Forsyth Country Club, Winston-Salem, NC

• Best Booth Design – Savory: Chef Matthew Hannon,

Ashten’s, Southern Pines, NC

• Best Booth Design – Pastry: Chef Gerald Hawkins,

Gaston Country Club, Gastonia, NC


VERY CULINARY

2018 NCRLA Pastry Chef of the

Year, Miranda Brown, The Asbury

in Charlotte, NC with her Corn

Cremeux dessert

2018 NCRLA Chef of the Year, Travis Myers, Willows Bistro

in Winston-Salem, NC with his Duck Two Ways entree


A stunning presentation of his winning cocktail “Left Turn at Albuquerque”

with 2018 NCRLA Mixologist of the Year, Joe Nicol based in Asheville, NC

VERY CULINARY



Start your weekend with Good Cup Coffee Co.

Nothing like starting the morning off with a fresh

made cup-o-joe. Why, I have friends that go to bed

dreaming of that first sip of that first cup in the

morning. The pleasure is more than doubled when

that first sip is combined with an early morning

shopping trip to a local Saturday morning farmers’

market. Drink Local, Shop Local don’t you know!

With the smell of fresh perked or poured over

coffee in the air, next time you find yourself on a

Saturday morning at the Matthews Community

Farmers Market, do start your trip with a short

wait in the cue at Good Cup Coffee Co..

The stand was originally opened by Benjamin

Koenigsberg, son of Sammy and Melinda

Koenigsberg, long time farmers at New Town

Farms and front runners of the team at the

Matthews Market. The idea was to just be able to

get a good cup of coffee at the market, and that is

exactly what Benjamin and his team provided.

Customers loved it, among them, Debbie Chopas,

who always came up asking what was new. Her

enthusiasm was contagious, so when Benjamin

decided to sell his concept, Debbie and her husband,

Joshua were his first call.

For them the business has become a family

affair with LuLu, the youngest barista in the family

(only because her younger brother Titus isn’t really

walking and talking yet), offering a spin on her

own original libation as well.

The Chopas family has taken the original concept

of a good cup of coffee and raised the bar with

syrups from local botanicals, local honey, local

herbs and edible flowers added to the mix of cold

and hot offerings on the menu. Their goal – to

offer a refined coffee experience in a fun casual

atmosphere.

The market is nothing if not that, and to add to

the fun, Joshua and Debbie have recently pur-

chased a 1972 VW camper that they are refurbishing

to use as a portable coffee house on

wheels, so they can serve at events, festivals

and even private parties around town. Look

for them at the Windcrest Farms Ginger Fest

on October 7, 2018 or call to book them if you’d

like to offer a fun coffee bar at your next party

of event.

This summer drinks like a coffee affogato

with local gelato, honey and edible blossoms,

called the Sammy (after Sammy Koenigsberg),

took the market crowd by storm; and a coffee

granitee, called Big Poppy, made with with local

Uno Alla Volta ricotta wowed the crowds with

its cool crunchy texture and rich creamy finish.

This fall look for equally creative flavor combinations

with local ginger, figs, spice, and I am

sure pumpkin and winter squash to warm up

the chilliest of seasonal Saturday mornings.

Debbie is also working on an interesting recipe

for tonic with homemade almond or cashew

milk and activated charcoal. These hand crafted

brews, lattes and fun coffee concoctions are a

truly wonderful way to Drink Local. ■


VERY CULINARY

Life has been full of “Pastabilites” for this Charlotte family-run food business



Then and Now - Tommy and Debbie

George with son Max just after the

shop opened in the black and white

insert; in the color shot, Tommy and

Debbie George with Dylan George,

GM of Pasta & Provisions


THE FORWARD

This story starts by looking back.

Circa 1984, Boston, Mass. A young, single Tommy George is looking for work

to help pay expenses while he is in school studying Spanish at UMass-Boston.

He takes a job with a company called Al Capone Cheese Co., selling wholesale

cut-to-order cheeses.

Tommy’s education took him to Spain on an exchange program, so the job was

part time at first. It was in Boston, that Tommy met his wife to be, Debbie. The

couple got engaged in Spain and then found themselves back in Massachusetts.

Soon the couple was married and before too much longer, little ones followed –

three boys to be exact. In what seemed like no time, the couple had become a

family of five.

Tommy needed to take care of his growing family and so went back to work

for Capone, but now he was not only selling cheese, but fresh made pasta as well.

Back in the day fresh made pasta was a rare commodity and Tommy sold high

quality product to all the big names in the culinary industry. Because

he was great at what he did and processed an

uncanny attention to detail and

Tommy, Debbie and Michael

George, happy to be outside

the first ever Pasta &

Provisions in Charlotte NC

CHAPTER 1 – PROVIDENCE ROAD

When Tommy & Debbie George make a decision to roll, things happen

fast. With three young boys – Max, 4 years old; Dylan, 3 years old and

Simon, 3 months – they flew down to Charlotte for a week to secure a

small business loan and find a location for a shop all their own. At first

they thought they would continue with the wholesale format to

which they had been accustomed.

But when they found the small shotgun space in the Myers Park

neighborhood on Providence Road, the concept changed gears and

went from wholesale to retail.

The couple moved back to Charlotte in the late summer of 1992,

signed the loan papers and the shop’s lease all in the same day.

offered excellent customer

service, he was invited to big dinners at all

the up and coming places and became a bit of a celebrity in New

England culinary circles. Life was good but work was intense.

The George’s and their young family were in a city with no

extended family support. Tommy feared becoming a workaholic,

spending his time and energy building a business for

someone else and didn’t want that kind of life for himself or

his family.

Encouraged by Tommy’s brother Michael, Debbie and Tommy

decided to take the leap of faith, write a business plan and open

a shop of their own, back home in Charlotte, NC.

VERY CULINARY

They hired an architect to help upfit the space located next to Providence

Sundries on Providence Road and as everything was done and appeared ready,

they decided to open the Wednesday before Thanksgiving 1992.

With doors open and shelves and cheese cases full, they were driven by

enthusiasm and ready to go…that is, until the first customer came in to buy

cheese and they realized they had forgotten to purchase any knives to cut

cheese or charcuterie into slices or serving-sized portions.

They closed for the day and reopened the Friday after Thanksgiving instead.

Since that first day, The little Italian-themed market called Pasta & Provisions

has sold high quality cheeses, pastas and great Italian grocery items.

They made lasagna casseroles to sell, but other than that there were no prepared

foods in the beginning.

While the shop has always made fresh, cut-to-order noodles, at first Tommy

bought ready-made ravioli out of Boston; but as business grew, he eventually

made the ravioli on his own, purchasing the same professional ravioli machine

they still use today. Since those early days, the shop has made fresh ravioli with a

myriad of fillings to sell to customers and has worked with area chefs to develop

a custom wholesale ravioli cliental, as well. That was in 1994. The wholesale and

retail pasta business continues to thrive and the couple has never looked back.

Meantime the tiny store had growing pains and when the space between P&P

and the original Providence Road Sundries became available

Tommy jumped at the option to lease. They blew out

the walls under the archways that separated the two

spaces and were able to create a bit of breathing room.

WITH ONE COMES MORE

Enjoying the success of the original shop, the George’s

weren’t really actively looking to open other locations, but

opportunities came their way.

They opened a location at the Arboretum in 1995 that

was there for 10 years. In 1996,they opened an Uptown

location in the old Ivey’s building – here the lunch business

was great, but not so much in the evenings. In 1997-98, a

plan to expand took the shop concept north of Charlotte in

Huntersville; but the truth was, it was a long drive

between locations and Tommy was more comfortable

being in the heart of town than expanding out very far. He

sold the Huntersville and Uptown businesses and went

back to the single location on Providence Road.

CHAPTER 2 – PASTA & PROVISIONS ON PARK ROAD

In the 10 years that past since his decision to go back to a single shop,

Tommy had been eyeing a funky little property on Park Road. Then home to

Mike’s Discount Beverages, Tommy would give the landlord a call twice a year

for 10 years just to say if the space ever became available he was interested,

then the last two years, he called quarterly.

Persistence paid off and the Park Road location of Pasta & Provisions

opened in late January 2016. At this new location there was the luxury of

space, plenty of parking, room in the kitchen for a pizza oven and some seating

plus a large outdoor patio. Like the Providence Road locale, this shop had

a cozy neighborhood feel and that was important to the Georges. On the

patio-side wall of the building there is also room for a very personalized

mural – go take a look and see who you recognize!

With the opening of this location Tommy also hired Chef Brent Martin to

join the team as the executive chef. With pasta as the mainstay, the second

store provides the opportunity to prepare and sell more take-and-bake dinners,

prepackaged homemade sauces, local and regional cheeses as well as

imported varieties, wine and beer and more.

A veritable one stop shop for anything one needs on the way home for

dinner and a great place to land if salads, sandwiches and pizza are what calls

to you. Favorites of this food writer include the Kale Salad, the Cobb Salad, the

meatball sandwich and the caprese pizza.

While the team at P&P has hosted wine and beer dinners at the Providence

Road location, space for makeshift seating is tight. At Park Road, specialty

theme dinners can take place out on the patio, unless of course it rains and

then there is plenty of room for creatively constructed seating inside.

A FAMILY AFFAIR

Remember those three little boys that made the big move with mom and

dad from Boston to Charlotte so many years ago? The three George boys grew

up in the pasta business. Old drawings and tons of fun photographs – many

used for ad campaigns – still adorn the walls in the original Providence

Road location.

Tommy and Debbie didn’t start P&P with the intention of having it

become a family business, they just wanted to open a “cool store where

people loved to shop.” Mission Accomplished.

Son Simon is now an accomplished musician in Asheville, while Max is a

writer and the managing editor of The Oxford American, a southern literary

magazine.

Dylan expressed an interest early on in being a part of the business. At first

his parents wouldn’t let him – at least for a while – and insisted he go out to

learn the trade, learn about customer service, working with people and

everything else being in the retail business entailed.

To that end he worked for several years as a successful wine wholesaler

and learned a lot, but was always anxious to continue the family legacy his

father had started.

After several years away Dylan reached out once again to his dad and

they came up with a deal that worked for both sides. Today Dylan George is

the general manager of Pasta & Provisions and is following in his father’s

footsteps.

“My Dad is legendary. He gives back and creates second chances for people.

Everything he does is based in love and kindness and has used this business

as an engine to drive that in supporting our community. I don’t ever want to

see that end and want to be able to help continue that on into the future.”

Executive Chef

Brent Martin

VERY CULINARY

Chef Raymond Grubb,

bakes cookies and other

specialty items in the

kitchen at the Providence

Road location


VERY CULINARY

CHAPTER 3 - PASTA & PROVISIONS ON MINT STREET

After opening the Park Road location, Tommy said he would never

do it again unless he could own the property. He swore he wouldn’t

open another location and as he has been at this for some time now, he

wanted time with Debbie to travel and time to enjoy.

Working side by side with Dylan on the day to day, he got word

about a cool spot in the up and coming Gold Rush district of Charlotte

between the Wilmore neighborhood and Uptown on Mint Street and

fell in love once again.

The Mint Street location of Pasta & Provisions opened the summer

of 2018 and again offers space and another kitchen for Brent Martin

and the culinary team. The transformation of the building is fabulous

and will most certainly make its mark on the resurgence of this historic

Charlotte neighborhood. The newest Pasta & Provisions is another

neighborhood one stop shop for wine, beer, meats and cheeses, dry

good Italian-themed grocery, to-go, take and bake; with eat-in options

for lunch or dinner, a glass of wine or a pint of beer and more.

Once you enter the shop, you’ll want to look around, but be sure to

take the time to look up and you’ll see the original wood inner structure

transformed with a slightly modern take on an open ceiling concept.

The original rafters, once hidden by the ceiling in the main store area

were pulled out to create an airier more open space and then were

resurfaced to be reincarnated as the shops “new” hardwood floors.

To learn more about what is happening day to day at any of the

Pasta & Provisions locations, follow Pasta & Provisions' social media on

Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. You can also visit their website at

pastaprovisions.com #TellThemHeidiSentYou. ■


GIVING BACK

A Night of Giving

CHEF’S BEST DINNER

Benefitting Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina

TEXT BY JESSICA ANNUNZIATA PHOTOGRAPHY BY TOM PETACCIA

There are few moments in life when you meet

someone, and you know you are in the presence of

greatness. When those moments do occur, there is

this assessing, scrutinizing and evaluating of your

own life. Scenes of past events flutter by to determine

whether you are worthy to converse with this

high-minded, noble of spirit individual whom you

have been fortuitous enough to cross paths with.

Every year for the last 29, The Chef’s Best Dinner

benefits the Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina.

Harris Teeter is one of the largest corporate sponsors,

and along with dozens of other benefactors, they

make this evening possible. I was honored to attend.

As I passed through the Convention Center’s

colossal doors, I followed the flow of fellow attendees

into the belly of the ballroom and on to the

check-in table. I furnished my name and was

thanked for my attendance. The exchange was so

sincerely warm that as I walked away, I did a doubletake

for another look at the sender of such kindness.

To my surprise, I was the recipient of the compassion

that CEO Kay Carter has showered on all she

comes in contact with. Regardless of whether it is

personally or indirectly, this woman moves mountains.

It is Ms. Carter's giving heart that makes this

event happen. No wonder she would be the person

ushering the guests into the room. What motivates

this lady is also what would make this a full circle

moment for her. We will delve further into Ms.

Carter and her tremendous capacity to serve in a

future issue of Charlotte Living.

Most interesting is how the funds and in-kind

contributions are funneled out to so many different

channels where the need is prodigious. If you have

been in Charlotte for any length of time, I am sure

you have heard of Second Harvest Food Bank of

Metrolina; although you may not be aware of its

scope in our community. The organization impacts

19 counties of both North and South Carolina.

Through education, advocacy and partnerships,

their goal is to categorically eliminate hunger.

In 2018, SHFBM distributed over 54 million

pounds of food to 700+ non-profit partner agencies

for those living below the poverty line, of which


Second Harvest CEO

Kay Carter at check-in

Guests enjoyed culinary delights

from Chef David Lucarelli of Vivaci,

Chef Stephen Schmitt of WP Kitchen

+ Bar and Chef Ryan Daugherty of

Fin & Fino.

188,000 are children and 41,000 are elderly. They are

the largest non-profit agency in the Charlotte region

with annual revenues in donations reaching a staggering

$84 million dollars. Agencies include soup

kitchens, emergency pantries, homeless shelters,

senior programs, veteran assistance organizations,

and animal rescue shelters.

Initiatives like the backpack program enable children

to receive nutritious meals sent home in their

backpacks for weekends and holidays when school

is not in session. There are 40 kid’s cafe locations in

the region, which are feeding sites for children. Food

shopping for low-income families happens through

a mobile food pantry. Giving kids the ability to think

and learn their curriculum at school is the goal.

Nearly 41,000 seniors in our area often must make

the hard decision between buying medicine or food

to eat. Boxes of nutritiously prepared food are sent

to homebound elderly in need. Mobile markets work

with senior programs in seven counties, all distributing

where the need is greatest. Veterans also receive

GIVING BACK

Emcee Maureen

O’Boyle of WBTV

Chef Rocco Whalen

and his team from

Fahrenheit Charlotte

prepared the main

course and dessert.

relief from SHFBM. In the U.S. more than 3 million

veterans and their families do not have enough to eat

each month.

A staggering amount of food is wasted every day

and to combat loss, food is being salvaged from area

restaurants, catered events, and markets to feed people

in rural areas where resources are scarce. Through the

CFR program (Community Food Rescue) produce is also

salvaged and delivered to shelters to feed the homeless.

This “Go Green” program annually saves over 6

million pounds of food.

Second Harvest also gathers and distributes salvaged

pet food and supplies through a Pet Food Bank,

Chef David Feimster and Pastry Chef Anika Rucker of

Fahrenheit Charlotte

created to assist pet owners who cannot afford to

feed their pets. When disaster strikes, there are distribution

points set up in order to assist those in crisis.

The reception was hosted by Maureen O’Boyle,

WBTV's news anchor and native Charlottean who graciously

donated her time and talent to raise awareness

and donations. "Giving back has been one of the greatest

blessings of my life and career,” says Ms. O’Boyle,

who works with a number of charities in our region.

It should also be noted that although Maureen had a

family member in the hospital, she recognized the

importance of her role as spokesperson and emcee of

the event, and we are grateful for her dedication.

Jon Wilson of WCCB Charlotte did an outstanding

job as the auctioneer. Mr. Wilson is very active in the

community as well. He is on the advisory board of

the USO of North Carolina and a supporter of The

American Red Cross, Salvation Army, and Purple Heart

Homes. His facetious humor and cajoling made it fun

and easy to open our wallets.

Since the goal is a fight to end hunger, of course,

you need some culinary star power with big hearts

as well. Chef Rocco Whalen of Fahrenheit was the

featured chef. Chef Rocco has participated three years

in a row with Chef’s Best, and when asked why he

donates his time, his response was, “if you have ever

sat with a youngster that doesn’t know where his

next meal is coming from, its life-changing.” His passion

is evident in making a difference, but chef looks

at raising awareness for those in need as the “cherry

on top” of the love he has for his craft. Other culinary

contributions came from Chef David Lucarelli of Vivaci,

Chef Stephen Schmitt of WP Kitchen + Bar and Chef

Ryan Daugherty of Fin & Fino. Each course was paired

with wines by E.J. Gallow Winery.

The monetary goal of the dinner was $800,000

and is still being tabulated. If you would like to make

a donation or attend a scheduled event benefitting

Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina, please visit

www.secondharvestmetrolina.org.

Charlotte Living’s Jessica Annunziata and auctioneer

Jon Wilson of WCCB Charlotte

CHARLOTTE LIVING |75

GIVING BACK

On January 12, 2019, the halls of Quail Hollow Club

will echo with the cheer and excitement of 300

guests, adorned in their finest black tie attire and

couture gowns. They will be welcoming the arrival

of Daniel Mulhall, Ambassador of Ireland to the

United States, as they all celebrate an evening of festivities

to benefit the Allegro Foundation…a

Champion for Children with Disabilities.

Allegro Foundation is a nonprofit organization

that combines movement instruction with medical

and educational expertise, creating new techniques

to teach children with disabilities and enhance their

quality of life. Annually, Allegro teaches over 700

children with intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome,

orthopedic challenges (wheelchairs and

walkers), spina bifida, autism, cerebral palsy, learning

disabilities, muscular dystrophy, visual and

hearing impairments, children at-risk, and children

with cancer in FREE classes every week! **Allegro

Foundation does not discriminate against any type

of disability! **

TEXT BY STEPHEN DAVIS

The Board of Directors of Allegro Foundation are

honored to welcome Ambassador Mulhall to

Charlotte. The Ambassador truly believes in the

work Allegro is doing throughout our community.

As a country, Ireland is very advanced in how they

view and work with those living with disabilities. As

one of the first European countries to host the

Special Olympics, the Ambassador is looking forward

to seeing Allegro’s mission first-hand during

his trip to Charlotte in January.

Ambassador Mulhall is also looking forward to

making strong connections with Charlotte business

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIEL COSTON

Allegro Foundation will celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the

Ambassador’s Ball! January 12th, 2019 at Quail Hollow Club.

and community leaders, as Ireland plays an important

role in Charlotte with many Irish businesses,

restaurants, and nightlife venues.

As a renowned leader in teaching children living

with disabilities, Allegro Foundation will be celebrating

its 10th Annual Ambassador’s Ball, to kick off

2019 with a social event that sets a precedent for all

those following. The event began as an outgrowth of

Allegro making history as the first organization for

children living with disabilities to ever present at the

White House.

As the evening of glamour and excitement


GIVING BACK

begins, each guest will ascend the Quail

Hollow main entrance stairway and be

welcomed to a cocktail reception, including

top shelf liquors, beers, and wines. A

silent auction awaits the guests throughout

the many rooms adjacent to the

elegant Ballroom. The white-linen covered

auction tables include everything

from packages for your pets, spa retreats,

diamond jewelry, to once in a lifetime His Excellency, Ambassador Daniel

trips to a number of exotic destinations, Mulhall, Ambassador of Ireland

including the Signature Trip to the country being honored at the Ambassador’s

Ball. This year’s guests will have the pleasure of bidding on the Signature Trip to

Ireland during the Live Auction segment of the evening.

As the night continues, attendees of the Allegro Foundation Ambassador’s

Ball will be served a three course meal. After His Excellency, Ambassador

Mulhall speaks to the guests and thanks each of them for taking part in the

event to benefit the work Allegro does for children living with disabilities, a

presentation from a few of the Children of Allegro will take place. Many guests

consider this the highlight of the event. It truly shows everyone the reason they

are there.

Once the presentations and

the dinner conclude, the live

band will take the stage for the

guests to enjoy the remaining

portion of the Ambassador’s Ball,

as they continue to celebrate

the work Allegro Foundation

provides children living with

disabilities throughout Charlotte

and the surrounding areas.

For sponsorship opportunities

at this prestigious event,

please contact Stephen Davis,

Allegro’s Communications &

Marketing Specialist, for details

at stephend@allegrofoundation.net

or 704-412-5229.


IN THE CITY

TEXT BY ADAM RHEW, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

FOR CHARLOTTE CENTER CITY PARTNERS

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CHARLOTTE CENTER CITY PARTNERS

On a recent Thursday night, Uptown’s

museums and art galleries were

bustling. Couples out for date nights

strolled past sculptures; families wandered

through exhibits before heading

to their next stop. This was the scene at

Uptown Crawl—a monthly event that

provides free access to participating

galleries and museums in the heart of

Charlotte. A unique feature of Uptown

Crawl is the free trolley that shuttles

visitors from one cultural institution

to the next.

Center City is home to a thriving and

vibrant cultural scene, with a con-

and an opportunity to meet the artists.

The galleries are always rotating interesting

displays of everything from fine

art oils and pastels, encaustic cityscape

paintings, contemporary glass, jewelry

and mosaics.

And let’s not forget the dramatic—

and fun—public art that is visible

throughout Center City. From the iconic

firebird in front of the Bechtler

Museum of Modern Art to “Spiral

Odyssey” in Romare Bearden Park to

the multicolored magic carpet murals

painted on the Charlotte Rail Trail, it’s

virtually impossible to walk through

Charlotte was founded as Charlotte-Towne,

in honor of Her Majesty Queen Charlotte of

Mecklenburg on December 3, 1768.

stantly evolving roster of arts events.

There are 23 galleries and nine performing

arts venues in Center City, not

to mention many more places to hear

live music and watch performances in

parks and public spaces.

Indeed, we are lucky to be the home

of the region’s largest concentration of

arts and cultural amenities, many of

which attract visitors from far and wide.

The magic extends to South End,

where a popular gallery crawl has

become one of the neighborhood’s

most anticipated events. On the first

Friday evening of every month, many

South End galleries (and the occasional

unconventional space like a design

studio or furniture shop) will stay open

late to host lively receptions for new art

exhibitions with music, food and drink,

Center City without experiencing art.

There will be even more opportunities

to interact with the cultural sector

during the next year as we celebrate

the city of Charlotte’s 250th anniversary.

Thanks to a partnership among

city leaders and with the incredible

support of presenting sponsor Atrium

Health, CLT250 is a community-wide,

year-long celebration filled with events

large and small that will invite our citizens

to share and commemorate our

storied past; celebrate our city’s independence,

ingenuity, determination,

collaboration, compassion and

resiliency; and imagine a successful

and unified future filled with hope and

opportunity for all.

CLT250 will culminate in May 2019

with the return of Charlotte Shout, a

signature festival of music, art, food and

innovation. This celebration highlights

Charlotte’s vibrant arts scene—one

that’s fully on display every day in the

heart of the urban core. ■


PHOTO FINISH

Crawfish Time in NOLA


CLM Fall 2018

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