Uptown Magazine: July 2009

www.uptownclt.
com uptown 1
July 09.indd 1 6/23/2009 11:12:27 AM

P : call Kylie at 704.370.2861 The ulTimaTe in uRBan liVinG.
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e : info@steelgardens.com
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2 uptown www.uptownclt.com
July 09.indd 2 6/23/2009 11:12:28 AM

Enjoy South Park Living!
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details. uptown 3
For Over 60 Years
July 09.indd 3 6/23/2009 11:12:28 AM

6/23/2009 11:13:27 AM July 09.indd 4
www.uptownclt.com uptown 4
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the seen trying on everything was half the fun
pictures: fenix fotography
It was a night of skirts, shoes, and

wine at Joey Hewell’s J-Studio open
house. All the pretty ladies turned
out for the great deals and fantastic
fashion direct from the Left Coast.
Joey’s selections did not disappoint,
and most of the racks were bare by
the time the last drop of wine was
poured.
jordana harmon
joey hewell, brittney cason, brian kugler
not everyone was interested in the fashion

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July 09.indd 14 6/23/2009 11:14:04 AM

July 09.indd 15 6/23/2009 11:14:05 AM

*
uptown
Originally from A year and a half Ryan Sumner Charlotte native Up-and-coming
NY, Alessandra ago John Zoët was is both Creative Matt Kokenes is graphic designer
Salvatore has called freezing his bollocks Director and Owner no stranger to the Benjamin Gelnett
Uptown Charlotte off in Modesto, of Fenix Fotography, media-sales business contributes this
home for a year California, trying a full-service photo in the Queen City. month’s cover
now. An avid writer to fall asleep in a studio located in He has been selling illustration. Along
of articles, reviews, Burlington Northern Plaza-Midwood that’s both print and with poster
and screenplays, boxcar. Through grace dedicated to creating television for almost exhibitions at the Art
Alessandra’s other and the generosity of compelling and artful seven years. Through Institutes of Charlotte
addictions include good people, he now images for corporate, perseverance and and Indianapolis, Ben
interior decorating, works in a kitchen, advertising, fashion, intestinal fortitude, was featured in Print
red wine, and studies the culinary and weddings. The Matt has shown he Magazine’s Regional
“swapping”—she arts at Johnson & studio also offers on has the toughness Design Annual this
recently created Wales, and sleeps in site studio work for to succeed in this past December. When
SwapSassy.com, a warm bed. Torn executive headshots. business and was he’s not organizing,
a website where between sanity and Ryan photographed recently promoted promoting, or
fashionistas can swap the life of a vagabond, this month’s fashion to Ad Director for participating in local
clothing. When not he writes to quell the section. Click to the magazine. Shake art and music events,
scoping the Charlotte call of the road. fenixfoto.com to find Matt’s hand if you see he enjoys camping
scene, you can find out more. him—he deserves it, with his wife Kara and
her at home in the plus he looks much all his friends.Visit
company of her better in person. smackhound.com
husband, Greg, and
her fat cat, Marcus.
July 09.indd 16 6/23/2009 11:14:07 AM

say more
with your smile!
Bryan Reed is a man Chris Wooten is Freelance writer

of simple interests— a designer, artist, Andy Graves spent
among them, words, builder of tree houses, his childhood and CHELSEA COOLEY- Miss U.S.A. 2005
Dentistry by Dr. Shapiro
records, movies, and father, and avid teenage years on a
adjusting to life as a traveler who is known small, muddy dairy
grown-up (whatever for a neurotically farm in upstate New What our clients have to say...
that means). Since meticulous attention York. He came by
graduating from UNC- to detail. Since the higher education in “I cannot tell you how very impressed we are with Dr. Shapiro
and his entire staff! Thank you for all that you do!”
Chapel Hill’s School 1990s, Chris has Helsinki; Baltimore;
of Journalism and
Mass Communication,
been designing
print and interactive
Cork, Ireland; and
Buffalo, New York.
s
“Your office and staff is the best in the Carolina’s - I always look
forward to my visits and you always make me smile!”
Bryan’s been living solutions with zeal! When pressed about
the dream, working as
the assistant editor of
Modry Design Studio
was born after he
what he does for a
living, he will explain
s
“I absolutely loved the experience and you made me feel like a family
member. I was nervous, but it was over with right away.”
Charlotte-based music hooked up with his that he is a hobo. He
magazine Shuffle, and partner in 2003. For wanders aimlessly,
freelancing for several now the company tells aimless stories, Edward I. Shapiro, DDS
publications includ- is firmly rooted in and generally
Dilworth • Myers Park • Uptown
ing Tiny Mix Tapes NoDa. If you want to commits one aimless
and several weekly talk design, stop by blunder after another. general practice | sedation dentistry
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uptown
IT’S HIP. IT’S URBAN.

IT’S CLOSE.
PLAZA-VU.COM
A NEW VU OF LIFE
IN PLAZA MIDWOOD
Celina Marann SIGNAL is a design, name: Little Shiva
• Modern Loft-Style Design
Mincey is an production, and
• Storefront Windows
emerging artist in creative editorial species: mutant
many forms. She is studio focused on • 10 – 16 Foot Ceilings
the editor of Central creating engaging here for: the smell of • One and Two Bedroom Condos
Speak, a community and entertaining ink on paper
• Walk to Eclectic Shops & Restaurants
magazine. As a work for all forms of
• Priced from the $170s - $240s
singer/songwriter, moving images. Our interests: juxtaposi-
she is beginning core team of Directors, tion, transformation,
to perform locally Designers, Animators, mystery, clarity, the Located conveniently near the corner
while completing and Producers process of becoming,
of The Plaza and McClintock Rd.
an album in the has substantial images, and design
Move in Today!
studio. Capturing experience in both
people with a lens as long and short-format contributions to
well as with words, entertainment, this issue: table of Special Incentives
Celina is a freelance sports, and live action contents
No HOA dues for 2009
photographer and programming for
$2,000 Closing Cost
dabbles in oil painting. broadcast outlets such website:
This month Celina as Speed Channel, littleshiva.com
strolls the streets of FOX, ESPN, ABC, Style
Uptown with Doug Network, National
Smith. Geographic, FUEL TV,
NASCAR, Lionsgate, Pat Deely - (704) 604.9303 - patrick@themcdevittagency.com
IFC, and more. Lana Laws - (704) 779.9005 - lana@themcdevittagency.com
July 09.indd 19 6/23/2009 11:14:14 AM

Letter from the editor Editor/Publisher
Todd Trimakas
Advertising
Matt Kokenes
704.944.0551
Executive Editor
ing back on those days, it’s amazing how much we Andy Graves
fawned over him and his assemblage. Those were
heady days, and everyone, myself and this magazine Contributing
included, was caught up in the momentum. Hell, it Editor
was fun. Peter Reinhart (Food)
In more recent times I also think we’ve also cap-
tured the bottom, with the Dow submarining below Contributors
8,000 and the government all but nationalizing the Celina Mincey
major banks and auto manufacturers. But just as the Chris Wooten
Donald paying a visit might have been Charlotte at Alessandra Salvatore
the top, I think we’ve seen the bottom—and it’s behind Little Shiva
us. The bank stimulus money is coming in, there are Signal Studio
barely any U.S. automakers left for the government John Zoët
to take over, folks are slowly starting to buy houses Bryan Reed
again, and Friday nights in Uptown are a happening
affair. Photography
Imagine where we will be for the next 48 issues Ryan Sumner
of Uptown, who will run the city, which towers will be Todd Trimakas
Four years ago things were different. The Park completed, what social media will spring up next, and Sharan Downes
condo tower was selling like cold beer on a hot night, what will be the topic of the day. One thing I know
George W. was happily ensconced in the White for sure is that we will be here enjoying the interest- Cover
House, the Dow Jones was close to 14,000, Wachovia ing days, capturing the character of the Center City, Benjamin Gelnett
was a bank, and Uptown Magazine was but a twinkle entertaining you, and gathering plenty of stories for
in my eye. Fast forward to today: the landscape the grandchildren. Distribution
couldn’t be more different. Sean Chesney
No shit, right? The Park is a rotting hulk of a ~Todd Trimakas
building, we’re down to one national bank headquar- Publisher / Editor Office
tered in town, the most amazing change has taken Todd@uptownclt.com 1600 Fulton Ave.,
hold in the White House, we “tweet” via Twitter, and #140
post our lives online using Facebook. Plus, I’ve been Charlotte, NC 28205
lucky enough to see the printing of a full 48 issues of Contact us at
Uptown Magazine. info@uptownclt.com
Throughout this period Uptown has captured Uptown Magazine
the top of the Center City, perhaps best exemplified is a trademark of
by the time Donald Trump came to town promising Uptown Publishing
a tower—a tower that never materialized. Look- inc., copyright 2009.
All rights reserved.
Uptown is printed
monthly and sub-
scriptions are $25
annually and can be
purchased online at
uptownclt.com.
July 09.indd 20 6/23/2009 3:07:36 PM

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July 09.indd 21 6/23/2009 11:14:21 AM

health
words: alessandra salvatore
Ahhhh, summer. How we have waited for this! To be sitting at the pool,
soaking up the sun, having a mimosa – this is the life. Days become longer
and clothes become shorter, even on men lately. I don’t know whether it’s
a European trend or what, but I am seeing more and more Speedos these
days, and “boy shorts” are actually being worn by boys. I scan the pool at
my complex, taking in the scene, when suddenly – is that – cellulite? On
the life a man? It can’t be. I look down at my drink. How strong is this stuff? I
readjust my sight and look again to confirm what I had seen – OMG,
men actually get cellulite?
My first instinct is to rejoice, to stand up and do a victory
dance, to point and scream and poke at it (sorry guys). I almost
can’t help myself. I feel like I’ve just spotted Bigfoot, right here at
our pool. We women have been battling cellulite every way we
can, some of us ever-so-conscious of it that we drown ourselves
in cocoa butter and try to sit in our office chairs for as little
amounts of time as possible, to avoid “cottage cheese” butt. So
yes, for a moment I was actually happy to find that men are not
immune to this lovely trait. But, sigh, after careful thought and
consideration, and much sympathy, I am here to help.
Let’s face it boys, you care what you look like; some of
you more than us ladies these days. “Metrosexual” is no longer
a term reserved for that lone boy with spikey hair you see
flexing in the mirror at the gym. Spa books are spilling with
appointments from men, retail is pumping products and ads
at you, and nail salons are enjoying a whole new clientele. It
started out slowly: men would get their hair highlighted, then
their brows waxed; then there was the slow introduction and
acceptance of “guyliner,” “mandals,” and the “murse.” But, as
with most things in life, with the good must come the bad. I
now introduce to you: “maleulite”.
According to Sharon Bell, health and fitness enthusiast
and author, “For many years, men have not really been very
concerned about how they look physically because they really do
not wear very short shorts and expose their thighs and buttocks.
Although women are more likely to have cellulite than men, the
male gender is not spared from this annoying aesthetic problem.”
Still don’t believe me? Anyone remember the infamous moment
when Howard Stern flew over the crowd at the 1992 Video Music
Awards in assless chaps as “Fartman”? Google that, barf, and then
come talk to me. Now that you’ve got your head in the game, here are
some things you could do to keep your maleulite in check:
Take a walk. The more you sit in your office chair, the better your
chances are of having your rear look like an orange peel. Get up and walk
around, even if it’s only for a half an hour a day.
Drink more water. Water is the best way to help keep your skin smooth.
Period.
Invest in a moisturizing body scrub. While this will not eliminate cellulite,
it will help smooth your skin and make it much less noticeable. My favorite is St. Ives
Smoothing In-Shower Exfoliating Body Polish in Mineral Therapy ($7, drugstores).
Good luck with the battle, boys, and remember: We women love a man with dimples.
On his face, that is. U
You can reach Alessandra at alicatt29@aim.com
For more info go to www.uptownclt.com
July 09.indd 22 6/23/2009 11:14:24 AM

IT’S TIME TO
The Presbyterian Hospital Invitational Criterium

will feature an international field of 200 of the world’s
best riders competing for over $75,000 in prize
monies. Last year more than 35,000 spectators
watched an elite field of riders from 23 countries, and
this year’s crowd is expected to be even bigger!
F R E E FA M I LY F U N !
Saturday, August 8th | Trade / Tryon
Women race at 5:30 pm | Men at7 pm
www.charlottecriterium.org
All proceeds benefit Brain Tumor Fund for the Carolinas.

www.charlottecriterium.org
www.btfcnc.org www.btfcnc.org
July 09.indd 23 6/23/2009 11:14:28 AM

July 09.indd 24 6/23/2009 11:14:30 AM

home
Candle lovers, brace yourselves: I’ve hit the and Cedarwood Vanilla, and I am trying my best right now to avoid
mother lode. I may have found the best smelling gnawing through the jar of Banana Nut Bread that is burning next to me.
candles I have ever come across. This is a bold Most of the ingredients in her candles are from local vendors, and she
statement coming from someone like me, as I am recycles virtually everything she can.
completely obsessed with burning candles—so
much so that the other night, when some friends While her line offers several sizes of glasses and tins to choose
the life were coming over, my husband had to tell me to from, Susan will also take your favorite vintage tea cups or containers
leave some un-lit for fear that “they may think and fill them with your favorite scented candle—great for wedding or
we are trying to seduce them.” But I can’t help it; shower favors! After it has burned, you may recycle your container by
something about the flicker of a candle just makes bringing it back to her for a refill. I’m also totally digging the fact that the
me feel instantly calm. candles are all white or cream, so I can put my favorite scents anywhere
I met Susan by chance. We got to talking and she told me about in the house and they will match perfectly.
how she started experimenting making her own line of soy candles, Perhaps Susan says it best: “Our products are designed to be
which she named Classic Wicks, in her basement last year. “Great,” I simple, natural and unadorned, so you can enjoy the calm ambiance
thought, “How can I get out of hosting a candle party? My cat is allergic? provided by the candle.” Susan, keep your phone on; I will need my fix
I have to dye my hair? Think, think!” But before I could concoct a again very soon. U
legitimate excuse, she pulled a few samples out of her bag. One sniff
later and I was hooked: Susan has become my candle dealer. You can visit Susan’s website and view her line at ClassicWicks.com.
Even before taking a whiff, there’s a lot to love about them. They’re You can reach Alessandra at alicatt29@aim.com
hand poured, and made from soy wax, which burns cleaner and is For more info go to www.uptownclt.com
purportedly healthier to breathe than
paraffin wax, which most candles
are made from. An easy way to see
the difference is to inspect the jar
that your candle is in. Most times you
will find heavy black soot around the
rim of your candle jar. This is not the
case with soy candles. A cleaner jar
means cleaner air. Another pleasant
surprise is how easily the soy wax
could be cleaned from the container
it is in. All it takes is soapy warm
water and a damp cloth, which beats
the hours in the refrigerator and the
chisel you need to clean the excess
wax from regular candles.
Although they are soy, this is
not some sort of “green” marketing
ploy. What I love most about Susan
and Classic Wicks is her honesty and
where her motivation stems from.
She has truly created something that
appeals to her personally, something
that she would feel comfortable
burning in her own home around
her own family. She goes to great
lengths to select which scents make
the best smelling candles, and
which fragrances are compatible
with which waxes. Her talent and
experimental nature has yielded
such amazing scents as Cranberry
Marmalade, Sage & Pomegranate,
July 09.indd 25 6/23/2009 11:14:32 AM

drinks
T
his one is for my fellow winos out there. We love our
wine, it warms our insides in a way that nothing
else ever could. Pair it with some cheese,
some laughs, and some of our best friends, and
it doesn’t get much better that that. As much as
I love it, sometimes on a hot summer’s day I just
the life can’t bring myself to order a glass of red and sit
outside. But, as dedicated good little winos must do,
we adapt: Thank God for Sangria!
See, as most of us know, studies show that a
glass (or five) of wine a day is actually good for us! As long as it’s sipped
in moderation (or guzzled by the case) it will really help us get
healthy! Swear! Three times a week (or 50) is a great thing
to do! And what would be an even better way to reap
more health benefits from your wine? Why, to
throw fruit in it, of course! Talk about a guilt-
free drink!
Here are two amazing Sangria
recipes. The white is compliments of
Cantina, on East Boulevard (thank
you Michael!), and the red is
compliments of my sister,
who makes the best
damn red Sangria
I’ve ever tasted.
Enjoy!
Red Sangria:
¼ cup sugar
¼ cup water
2 large lemons
2 large oranges
2 apples, cored and sliced, skin on
2 750-ml bottles of your favorite dry red wine
1 cup Grand Marnier (substituting peach schnapps is okay, but the
White Sangria: Grand Marnier tastes much better)
½ gallon Franzia Chablis
1 cup simple syrup Combine water and sugar in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring
1 cup brandy until the mixture forms a syrup. Remove from heat and let cool. Thinly
1 cup fresh lime juice slice one of the lemons and one of the oranges. Halve the remaining
½ cup O.J. lemon and orange, then squeeze their juice into a pitcher. Throw the
½ cup apple juice rinds into the pitcher, too. Combine remaining ingredients into the
Fresh slices, one each, of lemon, lime, and orange pitcher, including the syrup, and refrigerate overnight. Add your favorite
Handful of raspberries seasonal fruits. We found that peaches, pitted cherries, and grapes
¼ oz Chambord work well. When ready to serve, pack a stem glass with ice and fill with
Sprite ¾ sangria and ¼ with Sprite or seltzer and enjoy!
Seltzer Shelf life: 3 days U
Combine all ingredients except for the Chambord, Sprite, and seltzer.
Let sit overnight. When ready to serve, pack a stem glass full of ice, fill You can reach Alessandra at alicatt29@aim.com
with ¾ Sangria and ¼ Sprite or soda water (if you like it sweeter, use the For more info go to www.uptownclt.com
Sprite). Top off with Chambord.
Shelf life: 3 days
July 09.indd 26 6/23/2009 11:14:35 AM

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July 09.indd 28 6/23/2009 11:14:39 AM

words: john zoët
pictures: fenix fotography
There is a place in the

town where I grew up, a
lunchtime legend, a spot
that sears the memory of
any hot dog-loving man,
called Hap’s Grill. It’s a
dive so narrow it claims
a fraction of an address,
sandwiched in at 116½
North Main Street in
Salisbury, North Carolina.
The grill slings lunch six
days a week, from ten
until three, and on all six
of those days you’ll find
a line before you find the
door. Why, you might
ask? It’s for hot dogs and
hamburgers, priced to
afford, and with a flavor
that keeps barking, “Come
back for more.”
the penguin
&
THe dog
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July 09.indd 30 6/23/2009 11:14:43 AM

I
I think of the hot dog as a series of personal choices. For instance, the road. My first destination: Penguin Drive-In.
I order it “all the way,” and I fancy the notion of ordering one—or A friend gave me simple directions: take a right out of the
three of them—damn near every day. A hot dog “all the way” at parking lot onto Trade Street, a left onto Central, and a right onto
Hap’s is dressed only with mustard, chili, and onions, because Thomas. The Penguin will be on my right; I can’t miss it. She was
perfection doesn’t need help getting noticed. If I had the capacity wrong. The fourth time I crossed over King Street, it occurred to me
to adequately describe the “it” that is the essence of perfection (the that perhaps this busy and centrally located street might morph
intangible element found in every bite, every single time), I might into Central. The primary function of street signs in Charlotte, it
consider trying to describe it, but I’m only human. I have a strong seems, is the befuddlement of motorists (though that’s grist for a
suspicion that it is found somewhere in the chili, but the exact different article). But fortune favors travelers seeking flavor, and
essence has eluded me for years, and not for a lack of searching. where King fell short, Central Street sallied forth. Onward I drove,
Suffice it to say that I’m by no means above jumping inside of a with my ragtop down, my stomach churning in harmony with the
dumpster, if the dumpster contains clues for locating the Holy Grail humming of my engine. An obvious right on Thomas brought me
of hot dogs. face to place with the distinguished Penguin.
I’ve digressed, so let me now speak frankly. Until further Extinguishing my smoke, I stepped inside. I swear I heard
notice, Hap’s Grill sells the greatest hot dog within the width of one of those old fashioned door bells upon entering, though no
this wide world. Yes, I do understand the gravity of my claim, such bell exists. A black and red checkered floor ducks beneath
the absurdity of staking it against the vast plentitude of possible the wooden diner-style booths against the far wall—the original
weenies worldwide, but bettors must lay a wager, and I’ve chosen pine paneling from 1954. Along the length of the wall are large iron
my dog. The time has come to start the circuit, take to the tracks letters, the sort you might see on abandoned ‘50s-era factories,
and size up the competition, measure them dog to dog, open all the spelling out one of the most cherished words ever to exit or enter
doors and see who finishes ahead of the pack. the mouth of a Carolinian: Barbecue.
I tend to take big bites, so where better to begin than in Denying temptation, especially one as sumptuous as
the Queen City where—from old to new, classic to eclectic, and a chopped pig, is not an exercise I’m accustomed to practicing.
bounty in between—an emergently epicurean city houses some Recalling the sanctity of my purpose, I diverted my eyes leftward
stiff competition. After seeking some guidance, I put my nose to and strolled over to the round swivel stools bolted to the floor by
July 09.indd 31 6/23/2009 11:14:48 AM

See Matt
See Matt jump
See Matt fall through the sky at

124 MPH
w w w
uptownclt
c o m
July 09.indd 32 6/23/2009 11:14:49 AM

the bar. They were spaced amply apart optional flavors, dependent on whichever
from each other in a deliberate effort to one, or ones, I focused on.
make even a lone customer feel at home in As I thumbed up the fallen bits of
a bustling atmosphere. Saddling the stool, I bacon, I ordered the dog that had barked
caught the attention of the barkeeper who the loudest from the moment I entered
obliged my request for a glass of water on this open-kitchen “King of Kennels”: the
the rocks. one Penguin declared was their “famous”
Just to be sure, I asked him if they hot dog, delectably decked with pimento
accepted debit cards, to which he replied, cheese and chili: “The Winky-Dink.” I’m
“Of course man, it’s the ‘90s”. Caught off pretty sure that you have to be born below
guard, I paused. He chuckled when he the Mason-Dixon Line to possess a proper
noticed my eyes reaching back, searching appreciation for the combination of pork-
for the section of my mind that remembers something (a.k.a. hot dog) and pimento
which era I’m in. Assuring me that the cheese. I apologize to any regionally aloof
millennium had passed and that they do readers, but the description it evokes isn’t
indeed accept plastic, he asked what I’d be translatable into English—it’s something
havin’. “I’ll start with a Race Track Dog,” I along the lines of mmm-mm-sou-eeeee,
said. It was one of five hot dogs available pronounced phonetically. When chili is put
on the menu. on top of a noise like that, again, I lack the
I apologize to any regionally aloof readers, but the

description it evokes isn’t translatable into English—it’s
something along the lines of mmm-mm-sou-eeeee,
pronounced phonetically.
“The Race Track” was delightful from vocabulary. The Winky-Dink possesses
start to finish, classically adorned with “it,” the intangible element that delights in
chili, mustard, slaw, and onions. It wore disguise.
just enough chili to require a few napkin As for the competition, I’d only be
dabs to the chin, but not too many. The bite telling you what I think you want to hear
of the dog could still be heard, that quick if I conceded my claim of Hap’s greatness
snap of the casing before the flame-swollen to the Penguin. Don’t misunderstand me,
flavor soaks your palate. I checker-flagged Penguin Drive-In runs a damn fine dog, but
“The Race Track” with room to spare, the “it” wasn’t exactly the same. Their hot
double-checked the menu, and flagged dog was dynamite, but in a novel sense; I
down my crew chief (a.k.a. bartender) to couldn’t crave it on a daily basis, as I do the
order doggy number two. Hap’s. But I could, however, and probably
A breed they call “Brian’s will, crave it weekly.
Connecticut Dog” looked like an ideal I can say with certainty that I’ll be
intermezzo (there was still one more I had back to the Penguin again and I encourage
to have), wearing kraut, crumbled bacon, you to join me. If I’m not there, don’t worry;
and stone-ground mustard. I don’t know there’s a stool with your name on it. As
who this Brian chap is, but I’d sure as hell for “The Winky-Dink,” you intoxicatingly
like to shake his hand. The combination delightful dog, I know it won’t be long before
of flavors had class, connecting deep it’s time to take you on another walk. U
within of my palate: dominant but delicate.
The true marvel of “Brian’s” components Penguin Drive-In
was that they were equally established, 1921 Commonwealth Avenue - 704.375.6959
contrastingly complementarily, and still Reach John at JAZ042@students.jwu.edu
the dog barked! I could almost pretend I For more info go to www.uptownclt.com
was eating a naked hot dog, dressed up in
July 09.indd 33 6/23/2009 12:06:00 PM

words: bryan reed
the secret life of geeks sci-fi convention as bachelor party – a final frontier?
“Are you in some sort of play?” asks a Chick-fil-A cashier after I hand him the money for my sandwich.
He’s not saying it so bluntly, but he’s wondering why I’m dressed as the Punisher.
I n a black, skull-emblazoned t-shirt and

combat boots, and strapped head to foot with
weaponry—Nerf weaponry, to be clear—I’m
as close to the Marvel Comics antihero as my
decidedly un-superhuman physique will allow.
And the fact that I’m eating lunch with a Star
Trek: The Next Generation officer, “Ash” from
The Evil Dead, and the hat-wearing stick figure
from the webcomic xkcd probably doesn’t help
my cause.
July 09.indd 34 6/23/2009 11:14:54 AM

all pictures are of attendees of the
concarolinas convention
N one of us had ever been to a sci-fi

convention before. We’d all thought it seemed
like fun, and we’d all kept those thoughts to
ourselves. The fact that among our foursome
were avid fans of comics, zombie movies, and
Star Trek, an amateur blacksmith, and an indie
rock connoisseur was, until now, just run-of-
the-mill geekiness. It had never been formally
acknowledged in public.
And with one of our ranks tying the knot,
it never would have been acknowledged had
we not forgone the standard beer-and-boobies
bachelor party for something far better suited
to our suspended maturity—ConCarolinas.
And any reservations we had were
erased with two words appearing on the
Saturday afternoon schedule: Nerf War.
“If we’re going to do this, then we have to
really do it,” I said.
We were not going to be plainclothes
“No,” I tell him. “There’s a sci-fi observers, but eager participants in all the
convention this weekend.” I gesture across the Con has to offer. We were to arrive costumed
adjacent parking lot to the Hilton University and prepared, and most of all, we were to
Place hotel, the site of the seventh annual find our niche within the many realms of the
ConCarolinas, and my best friend’s bachelor convention’s broad embrace of “speculative
party. fiction”—which encompasses sci-fi, horror,
July 09.indd 35 6/23/2009 11:14:57 AM

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July 09.indd 36 6/23/2009 11:15:00 AM

fantasy, comics gaming and all other things It’s hard to blame the Toys “R” Us cashier for
geeky. the wayward look she tossed our way. We
It took three days, and a somewhat were, after all, three twenty-somethings—
embarrassing trip to Toys “R” Us to gather our grown men by most accounts—pulling out
supplies. the plastic to cover a tab in excess of $200. In
the bag: 12 Nerf guns, a cache of spare foam
ammo, and a top-of-the line phaser—modeled
after the one used by a young James T. Kirk in
J.J. Abrams’s blockbuster Star Trek—for the
groom-to-be.
By Friday afternoon we were ready.
We were early to the convention. Or,
more specifically, we arrived an hour past the
official opening, but at least two hours before
the festivities really picked up.
C onCarolinas is a relatively small

convention, begun, officially, in 2003, though
a mini-con, “Prequel,” was held in 2002. As
it would turn out, this year proved to be the
biggest for ConCarolinas, with 965 participants
registered by Saturday night’s costume
contest.
But at 4 o’clock Friday afternoon,
the scene was tentative. We wandered the
grounds, checking out the vendors whose
wares ranged from replica weaponry and
original fiction to board games and rare Star
Trek memorabilia. We ducked out for an early
July 09.indd 37 6/23/2009 11:15:02 AM

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July 09.indd 38 6/23/2009 11:15:05 AM

dinner and came back in time to catch the first The Geek Comedy Tour’s website offers
set from the Geek Comedy Tour, a troupe of explanation: “Comedy club crowds don’t fully
Washington, D.C.-based comedians and self- appreciate jokes about comic books, anime,
proclaimed geeks. and video games. So, they’ve decided to let
“We’d ask for there to be no heckling,” their freak flag fly, form together, and bring
began Jimmy Merritt. “We got made fun of a their geek jokes to the horde that needs them
lot in high school, and if we got made fun of at most.”
a sci-fi convention, well, one can only handle Like the comedians who sought a
so much.” convention crowd who would understand their

The crowd laughed. Heartily. Debunked jokes, those in attendance at a sci-fi convention
stereotype No. 1: Geeks don’t actually take are looking for people who understand their
themselves all that seriously. vernacular – and who can recognize a good
“We’d ask for there to be no heckling,” began Jimmy

Merritt. “We got made fun of a lot in high school,
and if we got made fun of at a sci-fi convention,
well, one can only handle so much.”
Not only were the four performing Punisher costume when they see it.
comedians – Merritt, Jake Young, James It was a bit absurd, though not entirely
Jones and Joe Deeley – bountifully funny, they unexpected to hear two men debating whether
served as an apt means of understanding the a certain Stargate rifle could defeat a Jedi
convention’s culture. wielding a lightsaber. I’m still not sure, nor
July 09.indd 39 6/23/2009 11:15:07 AM

am I sure it matters. Surely, there are more somehow validated by the wider culture at environment where one can view a screening
important topics to address, such as whether large. Even Star Trek is a blockbuster in the of the independent zombie film, A Fistful of
the Marvel Comics Universe is better than the summer of ’09. What had once been a term of Brains, and then not only run into the entire
DC Comics Universe. (For the record, it is.) disparagement is now a badge of honor. cast the next day, but be offered a role as an
But even amid such straight-faced But the sci-fi convention is still a extra in the forthcoming sequel. For the novice
absurdity, there’s an overriding sense of self- niche experience. It’s something that makes convention-goer that I am, the smaller-scale
awareness that seems to say, it’s okay to laugh the event into something of a lighthearted atmosphere was refreshing and inviting.
It was a bit absurd, though not entirely unexpected

B y the time Saturday finally arrived I had
only one thing on my mind. Nerf war.
Biding my time until the 3 p.m. battle, I
to hear two men debating whether a certain Star- was able to revel in some of the convention’s
gate rifle could defeat a Jedi wielding a lightsaber. more interesting offerings. A screening of
an episode of Star Trek Phase II—the Web-
distributed, fan-created continuation of the
original Star Trek series—proved to be all the
with us; we realize this is all kind of silly. And celebration of all things geek, and one that still campy fun of the original, despite having to
that’s kind of what’s great about it. exists largely outside the mainstream purview. adjust to a Captain Kirk who wasn’t William
The fact that ConCarolinas is a Shatner, and a Spock who wasn’t Leonard
T oday, in a world where techno-gadgets,

video games, and movies based on comic
relatively small convention, with a clean,
simple presentation makes it feel more like
an informal gathering than a hyper-active,
Nimoy.
After that, hotel burgers and a Society
for Creative Anachronism tournament. The
books are as mainstream as you can get, disorienting geek-mall. local branch of the SCA, an organization that
it would seem geek culture has been Instead, ConCarolinas offers an researches and reenacts pre-17th Century
July 09.indd 40 6/23/2009 11:15:08 AM

European warfare, arrived with their full-scale We made sure to make it to the costume
armor and rattan-wood weapons ready for contest, though. In part to cheer on our
battle. This, as it would soon become apparent, “Ash” as he recited the famous “This is my
is very serious business. The knights follow boomstick!” soliloquy from Army of Darkness,
strict armor requirements, as they battle and in part to see what his competition was.
with solid wood arms, and fight in full-force, What we didn’t count on was the
un-choreographed combat. Unlike medieval hilarious, pervasive, and communal heckling.
warfare, nobody in the SCA actually dies, but One costumed contender, dressed as a
serious bruises and even knockouts occur. Jawa—an alien species from the Star Wars
And then the clock struck three. canon—was greeted not with the music
Unloading a backpack full of Nerf accompanying the Jawa scenes in the movies,
armaments—hundreds of rounds of foam which nobody could remember, but with an
darts and those twelve aforementioned uproarious sing-along of the theme from Mel
guns—and holstering it on our persons, our Brooks’s Star Wars spoof, Spaceballs. By the
group proved an intimidating gatekeeper for contest’s end, though, one intrepid spectator
our competitors, who were, compared to us, had downloaded the Jawa theme to his iPhone
woefully under-armed. and proceeded to bring it to the stage to be
“Can I be on your team?” one young played over the loudspeakers.
Stormtrooper offered by way of introduction. Such participation from the audience
He brandished a Nerf sniper rifle and a timid was as crucial to the spirit of the costume
expression. contest as the costumes themselves. At least it
Nobody, it seemed, was interested in a made the fact that our “Ash” didn’t even place
The local branch of the SCA, an organization that

researches and reenacts pre-17th Century European
warfare, arrived with their full-scale armor and
rattan-wood weapons ready for battle.
shoot-out with the Punisher and his posse. in the novice division a bit easier to swallow.
I’m happy to report that the opposing To be fair, with ultra-accurate period
forces, which did arrive eventually, were costumes, a Boba Fett uniform with working
vastly outgunned, even as they outnumbered lights, and a way-too-in-character Rainbow
our close-knit team. And while the skirmish Brite as his competition, poor “Ash” didn’t
was loosely organized, to say the least, it really stand much of a chance. It was a valiant
accomplished its primary objective. We had effort, though.
fun. Maybe next year.
Our foursome had earned a reputation
for Nerf combat that seemed to spread through
the convention halls like a red-hot rumor. T he weekend ends quietly. I go home,
shed my costume and its persona, shelve the
T hough ConCarolinas is considered a small

convention, its offerings are broad. Among
arsenal, and go back to my usual routine on
Monday. The rest of crew does likewise. We
carry on in the real world as relatively normal
the events we missed due to the confines of people. I assume most of the other 961 people
time were a screening of The Rocky Horror who attended ConCarolinas do, too.
Picture Show, another of the Thai ghost movie At least until ConCarolinas VII begins
Shutter, Klingon karaoke, and countless panel June 4, 2010. U
discussions on topics ranging from podcasting Reach Bryan at bryan.c.reed@gmail.com
to paranormal studies. For more info go to www.uptownclt.com
July 09.indd 41 6/23/2009 11:15:09 AM

42 words:
uptown matt kokenes
www.uptownclt.com
pictures: sharan downes
/ skydive carolina
July 09.indd 42 6/23/2009 11:15:14 AM

It was the door that I thought about most often in
the weeks leading up to my jump. Not a large door,
but a very significant one to be sure. Would the door
be friendly and reassuring as I plunged through it,
cheering me on as I trusted my life to time-tested
technology and layers of proven safety measures?
Or would the cold aluminum archway, peppered with
anonymous rivets and bolts, stare me down with a
sinister, threatening glare, as though this may be the
last door I ever step through?
For a month I dreamt of the door almost nightly. I

thought about it during business meetings, at dinner.
The door was on my mind while I was at the bar having
fun, and while I was playing golf. It was top-of-mind
when I drifted off to sleep, and still there as the ceiling
came into focus in the morning. The thing is, I knew
without a doubt that I could harness up and cram into
the small plane with the rest of the thrill seekers. That
much I was sure of.
But would I make it through the door?
July 09.indd 43 6/23/2009 11:15:17 AM

scaling tall stone cliffs with mettle and calculation.
above: matt
But with the safety net of technologically advanced
during his dive
ropes, harnesses, carabiners, and so on, a fall from
200 feet would likely cause little more than a racing
pulse and some chafing around the waist. I don’t remember ever hoping
for a thrill by intentionally jumping off of the wall. Trying to get to the top
every time without falling through the air was the thrill.
A decade ago, at Appalachian State, with the help of deeply
hen the moment came, would I take a discounted student tickets, I discovered I enjoyed flying through the air
deep breath and just jump out, plain and simple—or would my resolve on the local ski slopes. Unwilling to wait until my riding skills reached
crumble like Wachovia? Would I man up and burst through that door even an intermediate level, I charged through icy snowboard parks at
into swirling wet clouds and cobalt-blue sky like everyone else on Hawksnest, Sugar, and Beech, and launched over big double jumps
the plane, or just fold like a lawn chair? Or do people even do that? intent only on soaring through the frigid air, with no consideration on
Has anyone ever gotten up there with every intention of jumping, but how I would safely land on the other side. It was my tailbone, not the
panicked and decided it’s a no go, despite all the favorable statistics? Do edge of my snowboard, that typically bore the brunt of these impulsive
they freeze on that silver threshold, gripped with terror and humiliated, feats, and the shiny, rock-hard North Carolina slopes weren’t any
only to ride in shame back down to earth with the pilot? Maybe I’d be the more forgiving than a hockey rink. Many a 90-minute class was spent
first. painfully shifting from cheek to cheek the next day, but the few seconds
It’s not that I’m new to the idea of risking life and limb for kicks. spent flying through the air was more than worth it. An amazing feeling.
I think dangerous pastimes are fun and it never fails to make me feel When a friend taught me how to work the gearing and clutch to
more alive every time I cheat death. As a teenager, it was rock climbing: tap in to the power band on a Kawasaki KX 250 motocross bike, I forgot
July 09.indd 44 6/23/2009 11:15:21 AM

quiet sports like rock climbing and snowboarding even existed. Both my I was stuck on this idea as he continued on
above: brotha
life and my wallet were for several years consumed by the raw bursts about the ensuing parachute ride that would last
fred pre-jump
of furious, sweet-smelling two-stroke power that could so easily propel a few more minutes. While he spoke more about
cycle and rider over a 60-foot jump from a near standstill. I was soon how the veteran instructor I’d be securely fastened
on a first name basis with the folks at Boone Orthopaedic, yet despite to would handle all the important things, such as packing the main
a steady stream of smashed up motorcycles and shattered bones, and parachute, the backup chute, and pulling the rip cord, I tried hard to get
even against blunt suggestions from my doctor that I consider taking my head around the concept of falling out of the sky for an entire minute.
up golf, the feeling of flying through the air for a few seconds made it What if I didn’t like the feeling of freefall? Once I jump, there’s
all worth it. Despite the doctor bills, months on crutches, ruined sets of no calling time out, no “Stop the ride, I want off!” Would I have a
handlebars, I had become obsessed with the feeling of flying. panic attack? Or would I instead become a skydiving junkie, placing
But even the biggest jumps, the ones where coming up a few feet my previous “dangerous” pastimes in another category of hobbies
short guaranteed a trip to the emergency room, were not in the same altogether, along with knitting and Wii? Perhaps it would be the closest
realm as the 12,000-foot skydive I was chewing my fingernails over. thing to heaven on earth and I’d never want it to end. I’d probably want
And as scary as any big motocross jump might be, it was over in a brief, to go again—three more times before lunch!
heart-pounding flash, as the knobby tires landed safely back on the Or maybe I’d shit my pants midair. Should I pack an extra pair of
ground. underwear just in case?
James LaBarrie, the Director at Skydive Carolina, explained that Hmmm.
once I had flung myself out of their airplane—assuming I did—I would The sun seemed to rise and set at an unfairly quickening pace in
be in a 120-mile-per-hour freefall for an entire minute. the days leading up to “show time,” and before I knew it I was driving
Freefall. I’d be plummeting straight down through the clouds south on I-77 as dawn pushed red light through a cushion of low-lying
from a height of 12,000 feet for 60 whole seconds. clouds to my left. Off to the right, the towering silhouette of Carrowinds’s
July 09.indd 45 6/23/2009 11:15:24 AM

“Drop Zone” ride made me smile. I was to
report at Skydive Carolina, in Chester, South
Carolina—just safely outside the airspace of
Charlotte Douglas International Airport—at 7
a.m. sharp to prepare for an 8 o’clock dance
with destiny. Local radio and TV golden boy
Brotha Fred had signed on for the jump as
well, and I have to admit, I felt a little better
knowing Fred was on board. After all, terrible
air disasters never happen to celebrities.
Well, except for Buddy Holly. And Patsy
Cline and Otis Redding. The Big Bopper.
Randy Rhoads. Stevie Ray Vaughn. Payne
Stewart.
Oh man.
With each passing mile marker, my
heart pounder harder.
Skydive Carolina has been at it since
1986, and it’s apparent as soon as you step
foot on the grounds. The nearly 900-acre
site just an hour south of Charlotte is well
July 09.indd 46 6/23/2009 11:15:28 AM

organized, with three runways forming an efficient triangle adjacent to suit up and board the plane. Just a few more minutes.
the prep hangar, snack bar (Dale’s “Dive” In) and other facility buildings. The group of skydivers who had rumbled up into the gray morning
It was immediately obvious, even to this novice, that the runway layout sky just as we were checking in were now floating back to earth, 20
was conducive to rapid loading, takeoff, and landing—what looked to be parachutes that grew from tiny dots high in the sky to billowing flashes
potentially two dozen takeoffs and landings a day. of brilliant color steering straight down toward us.
After signing, dating, and initialing enough legal documents to The sky suddenly became darker, though, and the few minutes
freak out a real estate closing attorney, the reality of what was about to period before “go time” was extended. Indefinitely. The clouds weren’t
happen began to sink in. My hands moved in slow motion as I signed rain clouds thankfully, but Skydive Carolina’s safety protocol dictates
and dated each page. that the ground be visible from a height of 12,000 feet before anyone
The first two-thirds of the instructional video featured a young, jumps from one of their planes. That made sense to me. Twenty
stern attorney whose lead-in sentence was delivered without the people jumping into a thick white cloud just seconds apart, all pulling
slightest tinge of irony or humor. “What you are about to do is extremely parachutes without sight of each other or the ground didn’t seem like a
dangerous,” he informed us solemnly. After that, he used every possible good idea.
combination of words in the English language to drive home the point A half hour later I was beginning to feel like an iced field goal
that, “All of those papers you just signed are important legal documents. kicker lining up a 30-footer for the win in the final seconds of the big
If you sue us, you cannot win.” game—only I was in some twisted European league where the other
The video also described how to position our bodies during team had 20 timeouts and had saved them all for the sole purpose of
freefall: back arched, arms up and out. No tips on how to grow a pair crushing my nerve. After two hours, the pile of low-lying cloud cover
and jump, though. stubbornly kept the planes grounded, and we continued to wait.
Having signed the legal documents and endured the video, we Noon approached, and while Brotha Fred took pictures with one
were asked to sit tight on standby in the picnic area until it was time to group of adoring fans after another, I sipped one small Styrofoam cup of
July 09.indd 47 6/23/2009 11:15:32 AM

black coffee after another. And I thought some more about that door. canvas seat at the front of the plane, just behind the cockpit. Before
Finally, a patch of brilliant blue sky shoved the clouds aside, there was time to blurt out, “Hold on a minute,” the plane was packed
and there was a flurry of activity. Engines were fired up, instructions with a rainbow of jumpsuits and backpacks and accelerating down the
crackled through the loudspeaker, restless skydivers sprang into action 5,000-foot runway. With a little help from growing spring wind gusts, the
and suited up, packing parachutes, donning helmets and goggles, and sun and the sky had the clouds on the run—but for how long? I could
waiting to board. Our marching orders were given, and my heart rate, see the pilot’s hand throttle up and I felt the twin-prop CASA obediently
which had slowed back to normal over the last five hours, despite the respond, hoisting our group at a steep angle towards the sky.
ten cups of coffee, was now racing again. The mood on the plane was positive and fun, with plenty of high
It was go time. I gulped giant mouthfuls of air and tried to smile fives and bursts of cheering. After all, scary, fun, or all of the above,
big toothy smiles for the camera. My legs were stilts and my chest something incredible was about to happen. Everyone wore a helmet
frosted over as Keith, my instructor and tandem partner, cinched my camera to capture the trip to the ground. I felt an instant bond with every
harness impossibly tight over my shoulders and waist. I’m not sure, soul on that airplane.
but I think Keith must have been a cop or maybe ex-military—an MP Sitting on the floor in front of me wearing a color scheme that
at Guantanamo Bay perhaps. He had me so tight around the arm and Pablo Picasso wouldn’t have thought up, was a man well into his 80s. He
onto the plane so quickly—we were the first ones on, in fact—that for looked at me and smiled, giving me the thumbs up. I felt a little better. I
a second I felt like I was being thrown in the slammer. Perhaps this might not need that extra pair of underwear after all.
is Skydive Carolina protocol: Get the first timers on the plane fast and As the plane rose, the altimeter strapped to my waist dutifully
scuttle any chance of second thoughts and backing out. continued to spin clockwise. With each gain of 1,000 feet, the scene on
Without time to think about it, I was hustled in through the door the plane became more surreal. Even above the din of the engines I now
that I had obsessed about for so many weeks. It actually ended up being could hear myself breathing, my chest straining against the harness.
a ramp in the back of the plane. I was buckled into a military style Brotha Fred and his sister Amanda, who had come all the way
July 09.indd 48 6/23/2009 11:15:36 AM

from Arizona to make this jump with her big brother, were all smiles. Of this: After I jumped out—backwards—I wasn’t scared, and didn’t feel
course that guy’s not nervous, he freaking works in broadcast media for unpleasant in any way. And while I’m sure everyone takes something
a living. Bastard! different from the experience, I think I know now the core reason why
I glanced back at the door. The ramp had begun to lower. The people do these jumps.
span of time that followed I’ll never forget for the duration of my natural For a few glorious moments I was in a peaceful place, deafeningly
life—like my first car crash, or where I was on 9/11. As Keith asked me quiet, where, without technology, human beings can’t normally go and
to go ahead and stand up, my chest heaved and my vision narrowed. live to tell about it. Yes, physically it was amazing. What else could you
Color already had begun streaming out of the back of the plane, put your body through that even comes close?
with some of the veteran skydivers literally sprinting out to leap off of Sorry Carrowinds.
the ramp, backs arched, into the blue abyss. That brief time spent in the air touched a place deep inside me.
“We’ll walk to the back and stand at the edge of the ramp and hold For a few seconds I was shown a glimpse of something mere mortals
onto the overhead railing,” Keith shouted over the roar of the wind. “I’ll aren’t meant to see. A quick peek into heaven maybe.
count to three, and we’ll just step off together, backwards.” I didn’t end up needing that backup pair of underwear after all,
Backwards. and I can say this for certain: The next time I jump, I’ll be sprinting out
That’s how I went through the door that I had obsessed about for headfirst through that door. U
weeks. I tumbled off of the ramp backwards, and with Keith’s help I Special thanks to James, Annette, Keith, and all of the friendly
raced toward the persistent field of cloud cover that in the time since we staff at Skydive Carolina. www.skydivecarolina.com
had taken off had fought its way back over the landing area. I could not
see the ground, only blue on all sides and a blanket of white below. You can reach Matt at matt@uptownclt.com
The 60-seconds freefall blew by and felt more like ten. Describing For more info go to www.uptownclt.com
that brief span just isn’t possible, at least not for me. But I can say
July 09.indd 49 6/23/2009 11:15:41 AM

words: celina mincey
July 09.indd 50 6/23/2009 11:15:43 AM

conversation
You only need to walk a few

blocks with Doug Smith to gain
a sense of his distinctive charm:
insider knowledge combined
with old school ethics mixed
with senior spunk. He’s got a
smile that’s sly but honest, and
he uses it with the energy of a
much younger man. His classic
features make him the kind of
handsome that withstands time.
But what leaves the most lasting
impression is his optimism—
around every corner he has
something positive to say.
Doug Smith www.uptownclt.com uptown 51
July 09.indd 51 6/23/2009 11:15:45 AM

Co., a destination for Charlotte’s elite. At Kress’s, Doug enjoyed
popularity among his teenage peers because his aunt worked the
lunch counter. When she could be sure no one was looking, she’d
slip them a chocolate covered donut or two and they could enjoy
the delectables for free.
Doug conjures a picture of Charlotte’s Uptown remarkably
different from today’s landscape. There used to be five or six big
theaters. Charlotte Theater was cheaper than its fancy counter-
It’s a bright Charlotte day, the

temperature is a smooth 75 degrees and Doug is as easygoing as
parts, the Carolina or the Imperial. For 10 cents you could watch
three cowboy features when the same coin would buy you only
one at the other theaters. It was common for homeless people to
the breeze. His memories seem to grow out of the very buildings frequent the Charlotte to enjoy an air-conditioned afternoon. Doug
we pass, as if there is a piece of his story in each one. He loves this and his friends weren’t supposed to hang out there, or on East
town, but is not blinded by it, and has spent his most of his 42 year Trade Street, the pawn shop lane.
career trying to keep it on its toes. “But we loved it,” Doug remembers. “We were all into World
We begin our stroll in Polk Park near Trade and Tryon’s War II memorabilia. We found hats, knapsacks, ribbons. So even
intersection, now called Independence Square, though Doug though Dad would drop us off to see a movie and say, ‘Don’t go
hasn’t broken the habit of referring to it as “The Square.” He tells to East Trade,’ that’s the first place we’d head.” They also often
me how his great grandfather ran a hauling service in the early skipped the ride, asking their parents for the 15 cent bus fare
1900s, bringing by horse and wagon the stones to build the Inde- which they’d pocket, then walk from their Wilmore neighborhood
pendence Building (now replaced by 101 Independence Center), to Uptown.
which gave Charlotte claim to North Carolina’s tallest commercial This same mischievous spirit is alive in Doug today, and is
building at the time. certainly what helped him excel in his career. When he was as-
We pass the Bank of America building and Doug eases into signed to city hall, it was his job, along with his colleague Pat Stith,
another story. In the 1950s, 100 North Tryon wasn’t a corporate to get the scoop in time for an afternoon deadline. City Hall meet-
high rise, but a department store of a different era, S.H. Kress & ings regularly began at 1:00, forcing the pair to figure out ahead of
July 09.indd 52 6/23/2009 11:15:59 AM

previous: views of uptown
time what interesting items might be on the agenda for the day. He’s not keen to report
They noticed a janitor’s routine: he’d go through the top floor of- on the demise of many
fices, housing the city’s higher ups, to collect trash, and then dump of the same companies
it all in the large can in the men’s room to save himself a trip. Doug he followed throughout
and Pat spent countless afternoons, one on lookout, one sifting his career. As Charlotte’s
trash, digging out memos, partial letters, and discarded agendas. real estate guru, he could
They scooped City Hall so many times the City Manager accused always go for those big
them of breaking and entering the offices! consultant fees! He’s had
Doug laughs about it now, but it’s clear he’d do it all again. a good run, but everything
“That’s what you had to do those days to get information. You in the industry is changing
couldn’t just Google it. Your options were to get people to tell you, fast. It’s not that he can’t
or find it yourself. Everything we could do to get around barriers to keep up, but why should This year on this Independence Day in the
information, anything that was legal anyway, we did it to get the he? United States there are few things that
story to the public.” The best thing for conjure up freedom more than owning
During Doug’s 19 year stint as the Charlotte Observer’s Doug Smith about his your own vehicle. Freedom from oppres-
Development Columnist, information came a lot easier. However, career was watching Char- sive government started with the Boston
getting to that position took some doing. Doug was loyal to The lotte return to its former Tea Party, and Paul Revere, a local business
man, who had horse power even then, and
Charlotte News from an early age. He delivered papers for the stature as a regional hub,
warned the people of the oncoming British
afternoon daily when he was in seventh grade and later began his a place with pull, to which Army. Taxation without representation was
reporting career there. His paper had always been in fierce com- citizens from all around the slogan over tea being taxed unfairly. I
petition with The Charlotte Observer. When the Observer closed the Piedmont gravitated. wonder what those folks would feel like
The Charlotte News in 1985, rather than defect to the rival morning He’s seen it through. today if their gas was taxed. In today’s world,
publication, Doug took a position in Wichita. Brutal winters, miss- From his beginnings as a now with even the government also getting
ing his family, and reporting on cattle and wheat prices helped Charlotte Newsman, when into the car business, they believe in horse
change his mind. When after four years the Observer called to well-to-dos pulled up to power too. With government bailouts for
offer him a post, he took it. Montaldo’s Department what seems like everybody, why don’t you
bail yourself out and hit the open road for
Doug served as the Executive Business Director for the Store in chauffeured cars
some relaxation?
Observer, but tired of being inside an office all day. He thought and greeters escorted
M.S. Van Hecke had the paper’s best job—a high level of autonomy, them inside, to the demise True freedom is being able to go where
trusted to cover development, freedom to roam out of the office, of Uptown’s vibrancy and you want to when you want to, and noth-
lots of connections—and asked Van Hecke to let him know if he closing of the store, to the ing says that more than owning your own
was going to retire. building’s current state as car or truck. The feeling of “I own this and
As soon as Doug got the news, he went to the Managing the Mint Museum of Craft nothing owns me” is no more prevalent than
Editor. “I told him that I was a local guy, born and raised. I had & Design. That the arch- when you on a long stretch of open road
reported across all the different sectors: police, politics, local news. ways that once formed with nothing on your mind but the wind
noise (hopefully not too much) or the radio
I convinced him I knew all the players and could earn their trust.” the grand entryway for
playing. This is why Americans are in love
As the development columnist, Doug didn’t have to search shoppers have been with the automobile. I believe this is why
for his story in a trash can. Van Hecke helped him establish con- preserved, but the whole buying a vehicle this July 4th is a way to as-
tacts so that when Doug called, people answered and were willing building modernized to sert your independence. While your on your
to speak to him. His articles kept Charlotteans abreast of the real create a stunning, current drive we can both be happy we have a form
estate climate. Highlighting Charlotte’s exciting growth and devel- cultural space, is a perfect of elected government. Maybe you will get
opment opportunities, his column, “The Next Big Thing,” became metaphor for Doug’s lucky enough to have a friend or loved one
a must-read for consumers and real estate professionals alike. contribution to Charlotte. next to you, or even to meet your next loved
Developers and brokers called Doug, eager to share the latest on a His memories are a vivid one. Who knows?
project. This is easy to imagine. We don’t walk two blocks without backdrop upon which
someone stopping to say hello, to shake his hand, to discuss a little he envisions the city’s
piece of business. Doug knows everyone, even the area farmer future. U
who runs both a booth at the farmer’s market and a great Uptown
martini spot. You can reach Celina at
I can tell Doug loved his job at the paper so I ask him why he celinamincey@yahoo.com
decided to retire. His answers make sense in a lot of ways. Cutting For more info go to
his higher-on-the-scale salary saves jobs of young up and comers. www.uptownclt.com
He wants to travel, while he’s still, as he tells it, “young and spry.”
special information section
July 09.indd 53 6/23/2009 11:16:00 AM

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July 09.indd 54 6/23/2009 11:16:02 AM

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6/23/2009 11:16:09 AM
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July 09.indd 60 6/23/2009 11:16:41 AM

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July 09.indd 61 6/23/2009 11:16:45 AM

July 09.indd 62 6/23/2009 11:16:47 AM

Dining and Nightlife Guide
AMERICAN Bentley’s on 27 – $$$ Thai Taste – $ Dilworth Coffee – $
201 S. College St. Fl. 27 704.343.9201 324 East Blvd. 704.332.0001 1235 East Blvd # B, 704.358.8003
Alexander Michael’s – $ (Charlotte Plaza Building) Taipei Express – $ 330 S Tryon St, 704.334.4575
401 W. 9th St. 704.332.6789 Bonterra Restaurant – $$$ 731 Providence Rd. 704.334.2288 Dilworth Playhouse Cafe – $
Brevard Court Sundries – $ 1829 Cleveland Ave. 704.333.9463 Tin Tin Box & Noodles – $ 1427 South Blvd. 704.632.0336
145 Brevard Court 704.342.4700 Carpe Diem – $$$ 101 N. Tryon St. 704.377.3223 Einstein Brothers – $
Camilles – $ 1535 Elizabeth Ave. 704.377.7976 Zen Asian Fusion – $ $ - 201 S. Tryon St. 704.332.4015
1518 E. 3rd St. 704.342.4606 City Tavern – $$ 1716 Kenilworth Ave. 704.358.9688 Einstein Brothers – $
Cans – $ 1514 East Blvd. 704.343.2489 1501 South Blvd. 704.333.4370
500 W. 5th St. 704.940.0200 City Tavern – $$ BAKERY Java Passage – $
Cedar Street Tavern – $ 214 N. Tryon St. 704.334.6688 101 W. Worthington 704.277.6558
120 N. Cedar St. 704.333.3448 Custom Shop – $$$ Cloud 9 Confections – $ Jump N Joe’s Java Joint – $
Champions – $ 1601 Elizabeth Ave. 704.333.3396 201 S. College St. Suite 270 704.334.7554 105 E. Morehead St. 704.372.3217
100 W. Trade St. - Marriott Hotel 704.333.9000 Fig Tree – $$$ Great Harvest Bread – $ La Tea Da’s – $
Comet Grill – $ 1601 E. Seventh St. 704.332.3322 901 S. Kings Dr. 704.333.0431 1942 E. 7th St. 704.372.9599
2224 Park Rd. 704.371.4300 Harry & Jeans Marguerite’s Bakery – $ Nova’s Bakery – $
Cosmos Cafe – $ 201 S. Tryon St. 704.333.4300 2424 N. Davidson St. 704.675.5756 1511 Central Ave. 704.333.5566
300 N. College St. 704.372.3553 Lulu – $$ Nova’s Bakery – $ PJ’s Coffee & Lounge - $
Dogwood Cafe – $ 1911 Central Ave. 704.376.2242 1511 Central Ave. 704.333.5566 210 E. Trade St. (Epicentre) 704.688.0366
138 Brevard Court 704.376.8353 McNinch House – $$$ Panera Bread – $ Port City Java – $
East Boulevard Grill – $ 511 N. Church St. 704.332.6159 601 Providence Rd. 704.374.0581 214 N. Tryon St. (Hearst) 704.335.3335
1601 East Blvd. 704.332.2414 Mimosa Grill – $$ SK Netcafe – $
Ember Grille – $$$ 301 S. Tryon St. 704.343.0700 BARBEQUE 1425 Elizabeth Ave. 704.334.1523
601 S. College St. WestinHotel 704.335.2064 Monticello – $$ Starbucks – $
Fenwick’s – $ 235 N. Tryon St. – Dunhill Hotel 704.342.1193 Art’s Barbecue – $ 545 Providence Rd. 704.372.1591
511 Providence Rd. 704.333.2750 Pewter Rose Bistro – $$ 900 E. Morehead St. 704.334.9424 Starbucks – $
Fox and Hound – $ 1820 South Blvd. 704.332.8149 Jolina Tex Mex & BBQ – $ 101 S. Tryon St. 704.374.9519
330 N. Tryon St. 704.333.4113 Ratcliffe on the Green – $$ 500 S. College St. 704.375.0994 Tic Toc Coffee shop – $
French Quarter – $ 435 S. Tryon St. 704.358.9898 Mac’s Speed Shop – $ 512 N. Tryon St. 704.375.5750
321 S. Church St. 704.377.7415 Taverna 100 – $$$ 2511 South Blvd. 704.522.6227
John’s Country Kitchen – $ 100 N. Tryon St. – Founder’s Hall 704.344.0515 Rib Palace – $ DELI
1518 Central Ave. 704.333.9551 Zown Restaurant – $$ 1300 Central Ave. 704.333.8841
Nix – $ 710 W. Trade St. 704.379.7555 Adams 7th Street Market – $
201 N. Tryon St. 704.347.2739 Zink – $$ BREAKFAST 401 Hawthorne Ln. 704.334.0001
Pike’s Soda Shop – $ 201 N. Tryon St. 704.444.9001 Art’s Barbecue – $
1930 Camden Rd. 704.372.0097 Art’s Barbecue – $ 900 E. Morehead St. 704.334.9424
Presto Bar and Grill – $ ASIAN 900 E. Morehead St. 704.334.9424 Common Market – $
445 W. Trade St. 704.334.7088 Coffee Cup – $ 2007 Commonwealth Ave. 704.334-6209
Providence Café – $ $ 88 China Bistro – $ 914 S. Clarkson St. 704.375.8855 Dikadee’s Deli – $
829 Providence R d. 704.376.2008 1620 E. 4th St. 704.335.0288 Einstein Brothers – $ 1419 East Blvd. 704.333.3354
Providence Road Sundries – $ Basil Thai – $ 201 S. Tryon St. 704.332.4015 Dogwood Cafe – $
1522 Providence Rd. 704.366.4467 210 N. Church St. 704.332.7212 Einstein Brothers – $ 138 Brevard Court 704.376.8353
Rock Bottom – $ China King – $ 1501 South Blvd. 704.333.4370 Fresco Cafe & Deli – $
401 N. Tryon St. 704.334.2739 128 Brevard Ct. 704.334-7770 IHOP – $ 3642 Moultrie St. 704.376.5777
Selwyn Pub – $ China Queen Buffet – $ 2715 E. Independence Blvd. 704.334.9502 Grand Central Deli – $
2801 Selwyn Ave. 704.333.3443 127 N. Tryon St. Ste 3 704.377.1928 Monticello – $$ 101 N. Tryon St. 704.348.7032
Simmons Fourth Ward Restaurant – $ China Saute – $ 235 N. Tryon St. – Dunhill Hotel 704.342.1193 Great Harvest Bread Co. – $
516 N. Graham St. 704.334.6640 2214 Park Rd 704.333.1116 Owen’s Bagel & Deli – $ 901 S. Kings Dr. 704.333.0431
Something Classic Café – $ Creation – $ 2041 South Blvd. 704.333.5385 Groucho’s Deli – $
715 Providence Rd. 704.347.3666 1221-A The Plaza 704.372.2561 Tic Toc Coffeeshop – $ 201 N. Tryon St. 704.342.0030
South 21 – $ Cuisine Malaya – $ 512 N. Tryon St. 704.375.5750 Halfpenny’s – $
3101 E. Independence Blvd. 704.377.4509 1411 Elizabeth Ave. 704.372.0766 30 Two First Union Ctr. 704.342.9697
Southend Brewery – $$ Dim Sum – $ BRITISH Jersey Mike’s Subs – $
2100 South Blvd. 704.358.4677 2920 Central Ave. 704.569.1128 128 S. Tryon St. 704.343.0006
Stool Pigeons – $ Eggroll King – $ Big Ben’s Pub – $ Jersey Mike’s Subs – $
214 N. Church St. 704.358.3788 8907 Steelechase Dr. 704.372.6401 801 Providence R d. 704.334.6338 1408 East Blvd. 704.295.9155
The Gin Mill South End – $ Emperor Chinese – $ Jersey Mikes Subs – $
1411 S. Tryon St. 704.373.0782 337 S. Kings Dr. 704.333.2688 CAJUN & CREOLE 2001 E. 7th St. 704.375.1985
The Graduate – $ Fortune Cookie – $ Jump N Joe’s Java Joint – $
123 W. Trade St. 704.358.3024 208 East Independence Blvd. 704.377.1388 Boudreaux’s Louisiana Kitchen – $ 105 E. Morehead St. 704.372.3217
The Penguin – $ Fujiyama – $ 501 E. 36th St. 704.331.9898 Laurel Market South – $
1921 Commonwealth Ave. 704.375.6959 320 S. Tryon St. 704.334.5158 Cajun Queen – $$ 1515 South Blvd. 704.334.2185
The Philosopher’s Stone – $ Fuse Box – $ 1800 E 7th St. 704.377.9017 Leo’s Delicatessen – $
1958 E. Seventh St. 704.350.1331 227 W. Trade St. 704.376.8885 1421 Elizabeth Ave. 704.375.2400
The Pub – $ Ginbu 401 – $ C A R I B B E A N Li’l Dino – $
710 West Trade St. 704.333.9818 401 Providence Rd. 704.372.2288 401 S. Tryon St. 704.342.0560
Thomas Street Tavern – $ Great Wok – $ Anntony’s Caribbean Cafe – $ Matt’s Chicago Dog – $
1218 Thomas Ave. 704.376.1622 718 W Trade St. Ste M 704.333.0080 2001 E. 7th St. 704.342.0749 425 S. Tryon St. 704.333.3650
Tic Toc Coffeeshop – $ Ho Ho China Bistro – $ Austin’s Caribbean Cuisine – $ Owen’s Bagel & Deli – $
512 N. Tryon St. 704.375.5750 1742 Lombardy Cir. 704.376.0807 345 S. Kings Dr. 704.331.8778 2041 South Blvd. 704.333.5385
Union Grille – $ Hong Kong – $ Philadelphia Deli – $
222 E 3rd St. – Hilton Towers 1713 Central Ave. 704.376.6818 CHINESE 1025 S. Kings Dr. 704.333.4489
704.331.4360 Koko – $ Phil’s Tavern – $
Vinnie’s Sardine – $ 6609 Elfreda Rd. 704.338.6869 88 China Bistro – $ 105 E. Fifth St. 704.347.0035
1714 South Blvd. 704-332-0006 Monsoon Thai Cuisine – $ 1620 E. 4th St. 704.335.0288 Rainbow Café – $
Zack’s Hamburgers – $ 2801 South Blvd. 704.523.6778 Vanloi Chinese Barbecue – $ 400 South Tryon 704.332.8918
4009 South Blvd. 704.525.1720 Orient Express – $ 3101 Central Ave. 704.566.8808 Reid’s – $
3200 N Graham St. 704.332.6255 Wok Express – $ 225 E. 7th St. 704.377.1312
AMERICAN MODERN Pho An Hoa – $ 601 S. Kings Dr. 704.375.1122 Ri-Ra Irish Pub – $
4832 Central Ave. 704.537.2595 208 N. Tryon St 704.333.5554
131 Main – $$ Pho Hoa – $ COFFEE SHOPS Salvador Deli – $
1315 East Blvd. 704.343.0131 3000 Central Ave. 704.536.7110 N. Davidson St. 704.334.2344
300 East – $$ SOHO Bistro – $ Caribou Coffee – $ Sammy’suptown
www.uptownclt.com Deli – $ 63
300 East Blvd. 704.332.6507 214 N Tryon St. 704.333.5189 100 N. Tryon St. 704.372.5507 1113 Pecan Ave. 704.376.1956
July 09.indd 63 6/23/2009 11:16:47 AM

Sandwich Club – $ Luce Ristorante & Bar – $$$ East Boulevard Grill – $ Pasta & Provisions – $
525 N. Tryon St. 704.334.0133 214 N. Tryon St. – Hearst Plaza 704.344.9222 1601 East Blvd. 704.332.2414 1528 Providence Rd. 704.364.2622
Sandwich Club – $ Mama Ricotta’s – $$ Ember Grille – $$$ Pita Pit – $
435 S. Tryon St. 704.344.1975 601 S. Kings Dr. 704.343.0148 601 S. College St. - Westin Hotel 704.335.2064 214 N. Tryon St. 704.333.5856
Substation II - $ Open Kitchen – $ Ri-Ra Irish Pub – $ Quiznos Sub – $
1601 South Blvd 704-332-3100 1318 W. Morehead St. 704.375.7449 208 N. Tryon St 704.333.5554 127 N. Tryon St. 704.374.9921
1941 E. 7th St. 704-358-8100 Pasta & Provisions – $ Sullivan’s – $$$ Quizno’s – $
1528 Providence Rd. 704.364.2622 1928 South Blvd. 704.335.8228 320 S. Tryon St. – Latta Arcade 704.372.8922
DESSERT Portofino’s Italian – $$ The Corner Pub – $ Roly Poly Sandwiches – $
3124 Eastway Dr. 704.568.7933 335 N. Graham St. 704.376.2720 317 S. Church St. 704.332.6375
Crave the Dessert Bar – $ Primo Ristorante – $$ Sbarro – $
501 W. 5th St. 704.277.9993 116 Middleton Dr. 704.334.3346 PIZZA 101 S. Tryon St. 704.332.5005
Dairy Queen – $ Cafe Siena – $$ Simply Subs – $
1431 Central Ave. 704.377.4294 230 N. College St. 704.602.2750 Brixx – $ 212 S. Tryon St. 704.333.0503
Dolce Ristorante – $$ Salute Ristorante – $$ 225 East 6th St. 704.347.2749 Smoothie King – $
1710 Kenilworth Ave. 704.332.7525 613 Providence Rd 704.342.9767 Donato’s Pizza - $ Epicentre - 210 Trade St. 704.979.6911
Luce Ristorante – $$ Terra – $$ 718-A West Trade St 704.714.4743 Smoothie King – $
214 N. Tryon St. – Hearst Plaza 704.344.9222 545-B Providence Rd. 704.332.1886 Domino’s Pizza – $ One Wachovia Center 704.374.0200
Monticello – $$ Villa Francesca 343 S. Kings Dr. 704.331.9847 Spoons – $
235 N. Tryon St.– Dunhill Hotel 704.342.1193 321 Caldwell St. 704.333.7447 Fuel Pizza – $ 415 Hawthorne Ln. 704.376.0874
Volare – $$ 214 N. Tryon St. 704.350.1680 Woody’s Chicago Style – $
ECLECTIC 1523 Elizabeth Ave. 704.370.0208 Fuel Pizza – $ 320 S. Tryon St. - Latta Arcade 704.334.0010
Zio Authentic Italian – $$ 1501 Central Ave. 704.376.3835 Zack’s Hamburgers – $
The Melting Pot – $$$ 116 Middleton Dr. 704.344.0100 Hawthorne’s NY 4009 South Blvd. 704.525.1720
901 S. Kings Dr. Stuite 140-B 704.548.2431 1701 E. 7th St. 704.358.9339
Therapy Cafe – $ L AT I N Latta Pizza – $ S E A F O O D
401 N. Tryon St. 704.333.1353 320 S. Tryon St. 704.333.4015
The Fig Tree – $$ Cloud 9 Confections – $ Papa John’s Pizza – $ Aquavina – $$$
1601 E. 7th St. 704.332.3322 201 S. College St. 704.334.7554 1620 E. 4th St. 704.375.7272 435 S. Tryon St. 704.377.9911
Latorre’s – $$ Picasso’s – $ Cabo Fish Taco – $
FRENCH 118 W. 5th St. 704.377.4448 214 N. Church St. 704.331.0133 3201 N. Davidson St. 704.332.8868
Coffee Cup – $ Pie Town – $$ Capital Grille – $$$
Terra – $$ 914 S. Clarkson St. 704.375.8855 710 W. Trade St. 704.379.7555 201 N. Tryon St. 704.348.1400
545-B Providence Rd. 704.332.1886 Pizza Hut – $ Fig Tree –$$$
M E AT & T H R E E 901 S. Kings Dr. 704.377.7006 1601 E. Seventh St. 704.332.3322
GREEK Rudino’s Pizza & Grinders – $ GW Fins – $$
Dish – $ 2000 South Blvd. - Atherton Mill 704.333.3124 525 N. Tryon S 704.716.3467
Greek Isles – $$ 1220 Thomas Ave. 704.344.0343 UNO Chicago Grill – $ LaVecchia’s – $$$
200 E. Bland St. 704.444.9000 Mert’s Heart & Soul – $ 401 S. Tryon St. 704.373.0085 225 E. 6th St. 704.370.6776
Little Village Grill – $ 214 N. College St. 704.342.4222 Villa Francesca McCormick & Schmick’s – $$$
710-G W. Trade St. 704.347.2184 Blue – $$$ 321 Caldwell St. 704.333.7447 200 South Tryon St. 704.377.0201
Showmars – $ 214 N. Tryon St. 704.927.2583 Zio Authentic Italian – $ McIntosh’s – $$$
214 N. Tryon St. 704.333.5833 Intermezzo Pizzeria & Café – $ 116 Middleton Dr. 704.344.0100 1812 South Blvd. 704.342.1088
1427 E. 10th Street 704.347.2626 Outback Steakhouse – $$
INDIAN QUICK BITES 1412 East Blvd. 704.333.2602
MEXICAN
Copper – $$ Bojangles’ – $ SOUTHERN & SOUL
311 East Blvd. 704.333.0063 Cabo Fish Taco – $ 310 E Trade St. 704.335.1804
Maharani – $ 3201 N. Davidson St. 704.332.8868 Boston Market – $ Lupie’s Cafe – $
901 S. Kings Dr. 704.370.2824 Johnny Burrito – $ 829 Providence Rd. 704.344.0016 2718 Monroe Rd. 704.374.1232
Suruchi’s – $ 301 S. Tryon St. 704.371.4448 Burger King – $ Mert’s Heart and Soul – $
129 W. Trade St. 704.372.7333 La Paz – $$ 310 E. Trade St. 704.334.3312 214 N. College St 704.342.4222
1910 South Blvd. 704.372.4168 Chick-fil-A – $ Price’s Chicken Coop – $
I TA L I A N Phat Burrito – $ 101 S. Tryon St. 704.344.0222 1614 Camden Rd. 704.333.9866
1537 Camden Rd. 704.332.7428 Chicks Restaurant – $ Savannah Red – $$
Carrabba’s Italian Grill – $$ Salsarita’s – $ 320 S. Tryon St. – Latta Arcade 704.358.8212 100 W. Trade St. 704.333.9000
1520 South Blvd. 704.377.2458 101 S. Tryon St. 704.342.0950 Church’s – $ Marriott City Center
Coco Osteria – $$ Taqueria La Unica – $ 1735 W. Trade St. 704.332.2438
214 N. Tryon St.–Hearst Plaza 704.344.8878 2801 Central Ave. 704.347.5115 Dairy Queen – $ S P A N I S H
Dolce Ristorante – $$ 1431 Central Ave. 704.377.4294
1710 Kenilworth Ave. 704.332.7525 MIDDLE EASTERN Domino’s Pizza – $ Arpa Tapas – $$$
Fig Tree – $$$ 343 S. Kings Dr. 704.331.9847 121 W. Trade St. 704.372.7792
1601 E. 7th St. 704.332.3322 Kabob Grill – $ Fuel Pizza – $ Sole Spanish Grille – $$$
Frankie’s Italian Grille – $$ 1235-B East Blvd. 704.371.8984 214 N. Tryon St. 704.350.1680 1608 East blvd.. 704.343.9890
800 E. Morehead St. 704.358.8004 Fuel Pizza – $
Hawthorne’s NY Pizza – $ OUTDOOR DINING 1501 Central Ave. 704.376.3835 S T E A K H O U S E
1701 E. 7th St. 704.358.9339 Green’s Lunch – $
Intermezzo Pizzeria & Café – $ Big Ben’s Pub – $$ 309 W. 4th St. 704.332.1786 Beef & Bottle – $$$
1427 E. 10th St. 704.347.2626 801 Providence Rd. 704.334.6338 Mr. K’s – $ 4538 South Blvd. 704.523.9977
Little Italy – $ Cans Bar – $ 2107 South Blvd. 704.375.4318 Capital Grille – $$$
2221 Central Ave. 704.375.1625 500 W. 5th St. 704.940.0200 Papa John’s Pizza – $ 201 N. Tryon St. 704.348.1400
1620 E. 4th St 704.375.7272
July 09.indd 64 6/23/2009 11:16:48 AM

LaVecchia’s – $$$ Dilworth Bar & Grille
225 E. 6th St. 704.370.6776 911 E. Morehead St. 704.377.3808
Longhorn Steakhouse – $$ Dilworth Billiards
700 E. Morehead St. 704.332.2300 300 E. Tremont Ave. 704.333.3021
McIntosh’s – $$$ Dixie’s Tavern
1812 South Blvd. 704.342.1088 301 E. 7th St. 704.374.1700
Morton’s – $$$ DoubleDoor Inn
227 W.Trade St.- Carillon bldg. 704.333.2602 218 E. Independence Blvd. 704.376.1446
Outback Steakhouse – $$ Ed’s Tavern
1412 East Blvd. 704.333.2602 2200 Park Rd. 704.335.0033
Ruth’s Chris – $$$ Evening Muse
222 S. Tryon St. 704.338.9444 3227 N. Davidson St. 704.376.3737
Sullivan’s – $$$ Fox and Hound – $
1928 South Blvd. 704.335.8228 330 N. Tryon St. 704.333.4113
The Graduate – $
S U S H I 1308 E. The Plaza 704.332.8566
Grand Central Deli – $
Cosmos Cafe – $$ 101 N. Tryon St. 704.348.7032
300 N. College St. 704.372.3553 Hartigans Pub – $
Fujo Uptown Bistro – $$ 601 S. Ceder St. 704.347.1841
301 S. College St 704.954.0087 Hawthorne’s NY Pizza – $
KO Sushi – $$ 1701 E. 7th St. 704.358.9339
230 S. Tryon St. 704.372.7757 Howl at the Moon – $
Nikko – $$ 210 E. Trade St. 704.936.4695
1300-F South Blvd. 704.370.0100 Jillian’s SouthEnd – $
Restaurant i – $$ 300 E. Bland Street 704.376.4386
1524 East Blvd. 704.333.8118 Loft 1523 – $$
Ru-San’s Sushi – $$ 1523 Elizabeth Ave. 704.333.5898
2440 Park Rd. 704.374.0008 Madison’s – $$
115 Fifth St. 704.299.0580
T A P A S Morehead Tavern – $
300 East Morehead St. 704.334.2655
Arpa Tapas – $$$ 704.372.7792 Phil’s Tavern – $
121 W. Trade St. 105 E. Fifth St. 704.347.0035
Cosmos Cafe – $$ 704.372.3553 Picasso’s – $
300 N. College St. 214 N. Church St. 704.331.0133
Town Restaurant – $$ PJ’s Coffee & Lounge - $
710 W Trade St. 704.379.7555 210 E. Trade St. (Epicentre) 704.688.0366
Pravda – $$
V E G E T A R I A N 300 N. College St. 704.375.8765
Presto Bar and Grill – $
Dish – $ 704.344.0343 445 W. Trade St. 704.334.7088 CATERING by
OVEN BAKED
1220 Thomas Ave. Ri-Ra Irish Pub – $
Something Classic Café – $ 208 N. Tryon St 704.333.5554
SUBS
715 Providence Rd. 704.347.3666 Selwyn Pub – $ Serving the best since 1963.
2801 Selwyn Ave. 704.333.3443
V I E T N A M E S E Stool Pigeons – $
214 N. Church St. 704.358.3788
FRESH, CRISP
Pho An Hoa – $ Suite – $
SALADS
4832 Central Ave. 704.537.2595 210 E. Trade St. 704.999.7934
The Attic – $
B A R S 200 N. Tryon St. 704.358.4244
The Corner Pub – $ PARTY
Amos SouthEnd – $ 335 N. Graham St. 704.376.2720 SIZES
AVAILABLE
The Forum – $$
BIG & MEATY
1423 S. Tryon St. 704.377.6874

WINGS
Apostrophe Lounge – $$ 300 N. College St. 704.375.8765

1400 S. Tryon St. 704.371.7079 The Gin Mill – $
BAR Charlotte – $ 1411 S. Tryon St. 704.373.0782 Award winning
300 N. College St. 704.342.2557 The Penguin – $ Edge To Edge® Pizzas
Big Ben’s Pub – $$ 1921 Commonwealth Ave. 704.375.6959
801 Providence Rd.
Brick & Barrel – $
704.334.6338 The Pub – $
710 West Trade St. 704.333.9818 UPTOWN 704-714-4743
200 N. Tryon St. 704.370.2808 Thomas Street Tavern – $ 718 W. Trade Street
Buckhead Saloon – $ 1218 Thomas St. 704.376.1622 DINE IN, CARRYOUT & DELIVERY • ORDER ONLINE AT WWW.DONATOS.COM
5.00 19.99
201 E. 5th St. 704.370.0687 Tilt – $$
Cans Bar – $
500 W. 5th St.
Cedar Street Tavern – $
704.940.0200
127 W. Trade St.
Tremont Music Hall – $
400 W Tremont Ave.
704.347.4870
704.343.9494
$ $
120 N. Cedar St. 704.333.3448 Tutto Mondo – $ OFF FOR
Connolly’s on 5th – $
115 E. 5th St. 704.358.9070
1820 South Blvd.
Tyber Creek Pub – $
704.332.8149
ANY TWO LARGE
Cosmos – $$ 1933 South Blvd. 704.343.2727 LARGE ONE TOPPING
300 N. College St. 704.375.8765 Vinnie’s Sardine – $ PIZZA PIZZAS
Coyote Ugly – $ 1714 South Blvd. 704.332.0006 Tax & delivery not included.
521 N. College St. 704.347.6869 Visulite Theater – $
Crave the Dessert Bar – $ 1615 Elizabeth Ave. 704.358.9250
EXPIRES 8/31/09 EXPIRES 8/31/09
501 W. 5th St. 704.277.9993 Whiskey River – $
Crush – $ 210 E. Trade St. 704.749.1097
300 E. Stonewall St. 704.377.1010
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July 09.indd 66 6/23/2009 11:16:54 AM

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