Captivating Photo of Barack Obama

GPT Exclusive: Anthony Hamilton's Album Release Date

Anthony Hamilton's oft-delayed third studio album is scheduled to be released November 18. I just got the date from the man himself.

The title of the album, The Point Of It All, has been floating around out there for months (it was originally titled The Life of a Southern Gentlemen), leaving fans waiting for it to actually be released. In the meantime, the Charlotte singer/songwriter has been collaborating with and writing songs for many of your other favorite artists. And you probably most recently saw him performing last month at the BET Awards.

Stay tuned for more details on Hamilton's upcoming album...

America's Next Top Model Casting

America's Next Top Model is holding a casting call in Charlotte on Saturday, August 9. For all you ladies who've been dreaming of runway and/or reality show stardom, here's your chance. I may go just to watch. Man Law.

This could be you, girl.

The ANTM casting will be held at the Renaissance Charlotte hotel in SouthPark. You can learn more details and download an application by clicking here.

A 'Sly' Way To Leave Voicemails

Have you ever needed to leave someone an awkward or uncomfortable voicemail message without wanting to call them and risk them answering the phone? Now there's a way.





Try Slydial for yourself by clicking here.

Events for the Week: July 28-August 3

Note: If I learn of more events for the week, I'll update this post.

Tuesday, July 29

Tone X and Friends (weekly event)
Enjoy a night of stand-up comedy, live skits, improv, and music, along with a performance by the Hunnie Dipz Dancers. $15. 8 p.m. Skandalos, 5317 E. Independence Blvd. 704-890-0771.
GPT says: It's a weekly hood affair. If you enjoy the comedy of Power 98's Tone X on the No Limit Larry and the Morning Maddhouse show then you'll likely enjoy this event.

Nas
See God’s Son in concert with special guests Talib Kweli and Jay Electronica. $40. 7:30 p.m. Amos Southend, 1423 S. Tryon St. 704-377-6874, www.amossouthend.com.
GPT says: Nas put on a good show last year at the Neighborhood Theatre and he did it without the great guests of this show. Last year’s show wasn’t a sellout, which is a shame for a venue that only held 1,000 people.

Wednesday, July 30

Pop Life (weekly event)
This is the city’s most popular Wednesday networking event. Enjoy a great view of the city while listening to music by local DJs, sometimes accompanied by live instruments. Sponsored by Creative Loafing and the Sol Kitchen. Free. 7 p.m. (Normal weekly start time is 6 p.m.) Loft 1523, 1523 Elizabeth Ave. www.thesoulmovement.com.
GPT says: The crowd, filled with attractive movers and shakers, usually peaks around 9 p.m., but people often hang well past 11.

Amos Lee
He’s folk, soul, and jazz infused in one artist. And he’s performing live. $25. 8 p.m. Neighborhood Theatre, 511 E. 36th St. 704-358-9298, www.neighborhoodtheatre.com.

Thursday, July 31

Alive After Five (weekly event)
This Charlotte staple is in its eighth year. From spring to fall you’ll find Charlotte’s professionals coming to this outdoor after-work party each Thursday. Free. 5-9 p.m. Wachovia Plaza, corners of Tryon St. and Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Free. 5-9 p.m. Wachovia Plaza, corners of Tryon St. and Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. www.charlottealiveafterfive.com.

Epicentre at Five (weekly event)
Epicentre is the new hotspot, with its new bars and clubs (Whisky River, Suite, Howling Moon, and more to come). And now there’s an outdoor after-work party to compete with Alive After Five. Free. 5 p.m. Pavilion at Epicentre, 210 E. Trade St. www.epicentreat5.com.

Got Beauty? Got Fashion? Rock It!
This monthly fashion event showcases local designers and models. Mingle over wine while enjoying DJ-spun hip-hop and R&B. Presented by KMB Marketing. Free. 7-11 p.m. The Grape-Northlake, 6801 Northlake Mall Drive. www.kmbmarketingllc.com.

Touch One Thursday (weekly event)
Come and enjoy a live band and spoken word by Concrete Generation. $10. 9 p.m. Wine Up, 3306 N. Davidson St.
GPT says: Wine Up is the home base for Charlotte’s flourishing spoken word and slam poetry scene. You’re guaranteed to enjoy it, so long as you’re not easily offended.

Friday, August 1

South End Gallery Crawl
Tour eight art galleries throughout historic South End and let the trolley bus take you around during this monthly gallery crawl. Free. 6-9 p.m. Trolley departs from Jillian’s every 15 minutes, starting at 5:30. Jillian’s, 200 E. Bland St. 704-332-9587, www.historicsouthend.com.

Interracial Dating in America Uncovered
In this film, director Chris Clay takes a look at the strong emotions, opinions, and challenges of interracial dating. $8. 7 p.m. Afro-American Cultural Center, 401 N. Myers St. 704-374-1565, www.aacc-charlotte.org.

First Fridays “Vanilla Sky”
The popular monthly event features its annual white party this Friday. Cost varies. 10 p.m. Ladies free before 10:30. NV Nightclub, 20924 Torrence Chapel Road, Cornelius. www.1stfridayscharlotte.com.
GPT says: The First Fridays series always draws a large crowd. And the crowd varies from the beautiful and trendy to the slightly rough around the edges.

Saturday, August 2

International Art Market
Experience art, music, and food from around the world. Free. 4-10 p.m. Area 15, corner of 15th and N. Davidson streets, NoDa. www.areafifteen.com.

Summer Fest 2008
Power 98 presents its annual concert, featuring Plies, Mario, Yung Berg, Three Six Mafia, Jazmine Sullivan, Pretty Ricky, and Lloyd. $25. 7 p.m. Cricket Arena, 2700 E. Independence Blvd. 704-522-6500, www.power98fm.com.

High Society Saturdays
Come dressed to impress each first Saturday of the month. $5 drink specials. Music by DJ Boney B. Presented by The Funklabb and GQ Entertainment. Cost varies. 10 p.m. Ladies free before 10:30. Rustic Martini, 616 N. Tryon St.

Sunday, August 3

Def Poetry Charlotte (weekly event)
Hosted by popular Slam Charlotte poet Bluz, this event is an open mic for spoken word artists. 9 p.m. Allure, 1508 S. Mint St. 704-713-7703.

Culture and Spirituality On a Summer Day

It’s amazing the things you can see and do when you get out on a Saturday afternoon. I don’t get out much on Saturday afternoons—especially during the summer heat—but I did over the weekend. And I’m glad I did.

I work with a youth group and I took two of the kids out to a couple of things I thought would be good for them to experience. I wasn’t exactly sure if they would enjoy it—as teenagers their biggest concern is usually whether girls are gonna be there or not—but I knew the events would be culturally rewarding.

First, we went to the Family Cultural Appreciation Day at the Afro-American Cultural Center. It’s an annual one-day festival the center puts on in July. They open the place up so people can tour the art exhibits and there were several vendors and activities outside. Because it was hot out—and I’m lazy—I copped a nice seat in the shade at the outdoor amphitheater and watched the various performances.

African dance groups showcased their skills, reminding me that the dances they do aren’t all that different from what we see in hip-hop videos. The drums they dance to are similar as well. A Latin dance group and a Latin band performed also. The young fellas I brought with me watched for a little bit, then they walked around, looking for girls I’m sure. There were people there of all ages.

We stayed for about an hour and a half, and then headed over to Area 15 in NoDa. There’s an International Art Market held there every Saturday, from 4 to 10 p.m. We arrived around 5, which I figured would be too early for this type of event so I didn’t expect to see many people there. We walked around the communal art space. It’s a cool and eclectic place. It’s probably even better in the evening when more people are there and the live music is going. There’s art on display, some for sale. Then there’s the Area 15 Buick parked on the front lawn. It’s a piece of art itself, with ceramic fish scales and fins, looking like something a 1980s Aqua Man would drive.

Throw some Ds on that, on that!

We were actually about to leave when I saw a sign on the sidewalk that said “24-7. Come on in.” I realized this was the same 24-7 I had assigned a story on last year when I was an associate editor for Charlotte magazine. At the time, I had received an email about events going on at 24-7 and asked the writer to check it out and see if it was worth doing a story on. She did and came back in awe. So she wrote the story (click here to read it) and while editing it I remember saying that I wanted to check this place out for myself. It may have taken me seven months, and I came across it by accident, but I found it. Or maybe it found me.

24-7 is an urban prayer room in NoDa. (Photo by Chris Edwards/Charlotte magazine)

Before I describe 24-7, let me first say that it’s hard to describe. It’s the kind of place you really must experience for yourself. It’s run by a nonprofit organization and is labeled as an urban prayer room. While it’s definitely a spiritual place, I wouldn’t exactly call it a religious institution. It’s a place you go to connect in any way you see fit—pray, meditate, read, converse, draw, etc. From the floor to the walls are scriptures and words of wisdom drawn or painted just about everywhere you look in the dimly lit space. (“If you seek with all your heart, you will find me” —God.)

There are several booths in which you can sit and partake in some type of activity. Many have portable DVD players with headphones for you to watch videos. I watched about 15 minutes of one that explained what it means to be a disciple. It was pretty interesting. Some of the stations have art supplies so that you can express how you’re feeling. Others have post-it notes for you to leave messages or write the name of a person you would like to be prayed for. There’s also a booth dedicated to Villa Heights. It explains the work 24-7 members are doing to help the neighborhood bounce back from crime and poverty.

One of the things I liked most about 24-7 is how you’re free to roam and experience the place. No one came up to us asking any questions or offering any reading material. Religion and spirituality can be touchy subjects with most people. But this place is meant for you to discover whatever you’re meant to—if you’re meant to. I highly recommend you visit 24-7, even if it’s just to see something different than you’re used to.

24-7
Open Mon-Sat., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.
514 E. Fifteenth St.
http://www.charlotte24-7.com/.

Target: The News We've Been Waiting For

The SuperTarget near Northlake Mall is opening this Sunday, July 27. It seems like construction has taken forever, but I guess that's just the feeling you get with anticipation. I know that I along with the tens of thousands of people who live on the north side are very happy now.

I never knew how much I was a fan of Target until I moved to north Charlotte (from south Charlotte) where there wasn't one until now. I found myself going to Wal-Mart more than I would prefer to. Sure, Target is more expensive, but the merchandise is of higher quality as are the women who roam the aisles. Man Law.

SuperTarget
Corner of Vance and Reames roads

Banks, I'm Begging You

Both Bank of America and Wachovia posted second quarter earnings this week. While BofA's profits fell 41 percent from the previous year's second quarter, the red bank still made a profit of $3.41 billion. Some analysts are becoming a little optimistic during these hard times. I'm not.

Wachovia reported that it loss $8.9 billion during the second quarter and as a result will be cutting 10,750 jobs. While the locations of these jobs are not yet known, I don't think there's anyway Charlotte can be spared. While I'm not at all an economist, I foresee a significant number of jobs being loss here at the blue bank.

Today, I'm making my plea again. And I'm doing it by directing you to a blog I posted a couple of months ago: Big Banks: Please Save Our Women.

Events for the Week: July 21-27

Note: If I learn of more events for the week, I'll update this post.

Tuesday, July 22

Tone X and Friends (weekly event)
Enjoy a night of stand-up comedy, live skits, improv, and music, along with a performance by the Hunnie Dipz Dancers. $15. 8 p.m. Skandalos, 5317 E. Independence Blvd. 704-890-0771.
GPT says: It's a weekly hood affair. If you enjoy the comedy of Power 98's Tone X on the No Limit Larry and the Morning Maddhouse show then you'll likely enjoy this event.

Wednesday, July 23

Pop Life (weekly event)
This is the city’s most popular Wednesday networking event. Enjoy a great view of the city while listening to music by local DJs, sometimes accompanied by live instruments. Sponsored by Creative Loafing and the Sol Kitchen. Free. 6 p.m. Loft 1523, 1523 Elizabeth Ave. http://www.thesoulmovement.com/.
GPT says: The crowd, filled with attractive movers and shakers, usually peaks around 9 p.m., but people often hang well past 11.

CNN’s “Black In America” Viewing Party
View the latest special in CNN’s highly talked about series in style. Music by DJ Rham. Presented by Digital Divas and Pride Magazine. Free. 7-11 p.m. (show starts at 9 p.m.) KISS Lounge, 204 W. Woodlawn Rd. http://www.digitaldivasevents.com/.

The Underground Soul Tour
Featuring live performances by R&B and soul singers Bilal, Eric Roberson, and Yahzarah. $20 and up. Doors open at 8 p.m., show starts at 10 p.m. Tempo Entertainment Complex, 4809 Wilkinson Blvd. http://www.tempocharlotte.com/.
GPT says: While Tempo is for people 25 and older, it attracts a largely 35 and older crowd.

Thursday, July 24

Alive After Five (weekly event)
This Charlotte staple is in its eighth year. From spring to fall you’ll find Charlotte’s professionals coming to this outdoor after-work party each Thursday. Free. 5-9 p.m. Wachovia Plaza, corners of Tryon St. and Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Free. 5-9 p.m. Wachovia Plaza, corners of Tryon St. and Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

Epicentre at Five (weekly event)
Epicentre is the new hotspot, with its new bars and clubs (Whisky River, Suite, Howl At the Moon, and more to come). And now there’s an outdoor after-work party to compete with Alive After Five. Free. 5 p.m. Pavilion at Epicentre, 210 E. Trade St.

Cufflinks and Cocktails
Presented by Charlotte’s Kappas, this monthly event draws an elite group of professionals. Free. 6-10 p.m. CANS, 500 W. 5th St. www.cltkappas.com/cufflinks-cocktails/.
GPT says: Past sites for this event have included more upscale places like Woods On South, M5, and GW Fins. It’ll be interesting to see if the dynamic changes at CANS.

Martini Mingle
Network with young professionals in a relaxed setting and cool bar. Presented by IKON Entertainment. Free. 7-11 p.m. Rustic Martini, 616 N. Tryon St. http://www.ikonent.com/

Snoop Dogg and 311
The Doggfather is coming to town along with rockers 311 and Fiction Plane. $30-$40. 7 p.m. Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, 707 Pavilion Blvd. 704-549-5555, http://www.livenation.com/.

Touch One Thursday (weekly event)
Come and enjoy a live band and spoken word by Concrete Generation. $10. 9 p.m. Wine Up, 3306 N. Davidson St.
GPT says: Wine Up is the home base for Charlotte’s flourishing spoke word and slam poetry scene. You’re guaranteed to enjoy it, so long as you’re not easily offended.

$3 Talk About It Thursdays (weekly event)
Formerly held at Allure, this event allows you to mingle and do a little light partying while enjoying $3 drink specials. Ladies $3, men $10. 9 p.m. Prevue, 2909 N. Davidson St. 704-231-1582.

Friday, July 25

Digital Divas All White Affair
If you want to see a lot of beautiful people dressed all in white, this is the place to be. Plus, the club’s Miami flair should enhance the experience. Dress code is classy. Presented by Digital Divas. Cost varies. 10 p.m. KISS Lounge, 204 W. Woodlawn Rd. http://www.digitaldivasevents.com/.

Sketches of a Man Tour
See Dwele perform live. Presented by The Sol Kitchen. $25 and up. 8:30 p.m. Amos Southend, 1423 S. Tryon St. 704-377-6874, http://www.amossouthend.com/.

Flirt Friday
Enjoy a Friday Night party in the heart of uptown. Presented by The Funklabb and Thomas Washington. Music by DJ Chase. $15 and up. Ladies free before 10:30 p.m. Doors open at 10 p.m. City Tavern, 214 N. Tryon St. http://www.thefunklabb.com/.

Funky Fresh Friday
Witness this celebration of music and fashion, inspired by the era 1985-1995. Presented by AJ Spade Entertainment. $15. 9 p.m. Wine Up, 3306-C N. Davidson St. http://www.wine-up.com/.

Saturday, July 26

Family Cultural Appreciation Day
This annual mid-summer intergenerational community day celebrates African and African-American culture, history, art, and Charlotte's diverse community. Free. 12-6 p.m. Afro-American Cultural Center, 401 N. Myers St. 704-375-1565. www.aacc-charlotte.org.

International Art Market
Experience art, music, and food from around the world. Free. 4-10 p.m. NoDa, corner of 15th and N. Davidson streets.

The Summer Society: The Chocolate Episode
Enjoy complimentary chocolate delicacies and martini drink specials. Door prizes will be given away. Music by DJ DR. 25 and up preferred. $20. 10 p.m. Presto’s Lounge, 445 W. Trade St. 704-241-2098.
GPT says: There have been white parties all season, now try a chocolate one.

In Between the Sheets
They’re bringing beds inside the lounge. Cabana beds draped with sheer sheets to be exact. Along with platters of hors d’oeuvres and candles. Music by DJ Silvio. Hosted by Satomi Mack. Presented by LymeLight Entertainment. $10 and up. 9 p.m. Prevue, 2909 N. Davidson St.
GPT says: This is the same group that brought you the “Naked Sushi” event last week. They’re freaky.

Sunday, July 27

Def Poetry Charlotte (weekly event)
Hosted by popular Slam Charlotte poet Bluz, this event is an open mic for spoken word artists. 9 p.m. Allure, 1508 S. Mint St. 704-713-7703.

This Is How People 'Meet' Nowadays

I went to a Meetup event Saturday. I blogged about Meetup a few months ago, but this time I went with a friend who is a member of the Women of Color Meetup group. One of the members hosted a fish fry at her house. I grew up in the South, where fish frys are common, but I haven't been to one in years. And it was just as I remembered—people love fish right out of the grease. But most of the people here weren't from the South.

Just serve me mine with two pieces of bread. No sauces needed.

I'm not a member of any Meetup groups and this is only the second such event I've gone to, but I can tell you why people join. As is obvious by the name of the social networking site, it's a great and easy way to meet people.

At one point during the fish fry, the organizer led an introduction in which she asked everyone to stand up, say their name, where they're from, what they do for a living, and why they decided to join Women of Color. One of the things that occurred to me was that the majority of the women had lived in Charlotte less than a year, coming from places like Detroit, Philadelphia, New Jersey, Illinois, and Wisconsin. So it shows you that people are relying on sites like Meetup to connect with people when they move to a new city. Women of Color has more than 450 members, and it was founded just last September, which is when its organizer moved to Charlotte.

Hi, I'm Jarvis. And I'm a Leo.

I'm of the college generation, where most of us were expected to go to college. This has created an environment in which as adults we generally don't live in our hometowns. Instead, we live in cities where we've moved to for jobs after college. That's one of the biggest differences between my generation and my parents'. For their generation, they usually settle down either in their hometown or the hometown of their spouse.

When the women were introducing themselves, most said they joined this Meetup group because they moved here not knowing anybody and wanted a way to meet and network. Supporting my hypothesis that only one out of every ten people I meet is a Charlotte native, only one woman introduced herself as being from Charlotte. She said she joined Meetup because all of her friends moved away.

Hancock, Dark Knight—Experience Movies Differently In Charlotte

I went to see Hancock at the AMC Northlake 14 Theatre (at Northlake Mall) last night. I'm not here to tell you what I thought of the movie (I thought it was great) because why would you care what I think about a movie? But I am here to share with you that I went to see the 9:15 p.m. movie and my ticket cost only $5. I was astounded. I was truly expecting to hand over an Alexander Hamilton and not get back any change. But $10 is only the cost of tickets on the weekend after 4 p.m. Tickets are only five bucks all day Monday through Thursday; and Friday, Saturday, and Sunday before 4 p.m.

Maybe many of you knew that, but I didn't. Besides, I don't go to the movies a lot anyway. I like to think that I'm more creative when it comes to a night out (last night I took my teenage cousins who are in town visiting). Chicks I've dated will tell you that I hardly ever took them to the movies. And no, it's not because I'm cheap. But when I do go to the movies, I'm more likely to go to either Ballantyne Village Theatre or the IMAX Dome Theatre at Discovery Place. And I'll tell you why.

At Ballantyne Village Theatre, if you haven't heard by now, they serve alcohol. Yep, you can have beer or wine while watching a movie. They also have a small, selective menu that includes sushi, pizza, and cheesecake. BVT shows only independent and art films, so it also provides an opportunity for you to become more enlightened than with your typical big-budget blockbuster. Tickets range from $7.25 for a matinee to $9.25 for an evening flick.

Go see this movie at Ballantyne Village Theatre if you want to feel intellectual.

And the reason the IMAX is cool is, of course, because of the three-story high, 80-foot wide screen. But also because it usually shows one mainstream film at a time, in addition to its science films that often coincide with an exhibit at the museum. I wouldn't go see a film on dinosaurs or whales, but I'm going to see Dark Knight, which opens there tomorrow. A couple of years ago, IMAX theatres began releasing their films simultaneously with the mainstream release (in the past, the IMAX films, which have to be greatly modified in size, would open months after the original). Dark Knight is sold out all weekend at IMAX, by the way. Tickets are $11.

Go see this movie at the IMAX if you want to feel badass.

What I've shared with you isn't anything out of the ordinary or particularly special. But it's probably different from what you're accustomed to. So fellas, if you must take a chick to see a flick, take her someplace where she can enjoy wine and sushi. Or where she can see Batman the size of a three-story building. Man Law.

Events for the Week: July 14-20

Note: If I learn of more events for the week, I'll update this post.

Tuesday, July 15

H.E.A.T.
Held the third Tuesday of every month, the after work networking series continues. Features a free wine giveaway. Presented by KMB Marketing. Free. 5-9 p.m. The Grape-SouthPark, 4300 Sharon Rd. www.kmbmarketingllc.com/.
GPT says: It’s the only networking event in the SouthPark area.

Tone X and Friends (weekly event)
Enjoy a night of stand-up comedy, live skits, improv, and music, along with a performance by the Hunnie Dipz Dancers. $15. 8 p.m. Skandalos, 5317 E. Independence Blvd. 704-890-0771.
GPT says: It's a weekly hood affair. If you enjoy the comedy of Power 98's Tone X on the No Limit Larry and the Morning Maddhouse show then you'll likely enjoy this event.

Anthony David Live
Signed by India.Arie, David will be performing songs from his recently released major label debut. $15. 8 p.m. Evening Muse, 3227 N. Davidson St., www.theeveningmuse.musictoday.com/.

Wednesday, July 16

Pop Life: The Get Involved Edition
This edition of the city’s most popular Wednesday networking event is a party with a purpose. It will be spotlighting local groups that are making a difference such as the Urban League of Central Carolinas, Planned Parenthood Young Advocates, GenerationEngage, and the Arts & Science Council. And you'll learn how you can get involved. Music provided by Kitch and DJ Stacey Blackman. Sponsored by Creative Loafing and the Sol Kitchen. Free. 6 p.m. Loft 1523, 1523 Elizabeth Ave. www.thesoulmovement.com/.

Thursday, July 17

Alive After Five (weekly event)
This Charlotte staple is in its eighth year. From spring to fall you’ll find Charlotte’s professionals coming to this outdoor after-work party each Thursday. Free. 5-9 p.m. Wachovia Plaza, corners of Tryon St. and Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Free. 5-9 p.m. Wachovia Plaza, corners of Tryon St. and Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

Epicentre at Five (weekly event)
Epicentre is the new hotspot, with its new bars and clubs (Whisky River, Suite, Howling Moon, and more to come). And now there’s an outdoor after-work party to compete with Alive After Five. Free. 5 p.m. Pavilion at Epicentre, 210 E. Trade St.
GPT says: So far Epicentre at Five hasn’t proved to be much different that Alive After Five. But it’ll continue to draw a good crowd because it’s new.

Mingle and Sprints
A networking mixer in the heart of the government district. And sure to be the delight of many, there’ll be a free gas card giveaway. Presented by IV Horseman Entertainment. Free. 6:30-9:30 p.m. KokoMo’s Coffeehouse, 901 E. Fourth St.

Touch One Thursday (weekly event)
Come and enjoy a live band and spoken word by Concrete Generation. $10. 9 p.m. Wine Up, 3306 N. Davidson St.
GPT says: Wine Up is the home base for Charlotte’s flourishing spoken word and slam poetry scene. You’re guaranteed to enjoy it, so long as you’re not easily offended.

Frankie, Neffe, and Keyshia Cole—this family puts the "real" in reality TV.

Celebrity Third Thursday
Keyshia Cole along with her sis Neffe and mom Frankie will be in the house and cameras will be rolling as they're filming for the third season of Keyshia Cole: The Way It Is on BET. Music by DJ Live. Presented by Mr. 305 Entertainment. Cost varies. Club Savoy, 3930 Brookshire Blvd.
GPT says: Not sure why they chose Club Savoy of all places. They must want a ghetto-centric flair.

Friday, July 18

Summer Soul Series
See Shableek and Uncommon Jazz perform in a beautiful rooftop setting. Admission starts at $20. 6 p.m.-12 a.m. The Terrace, 201 S. Tryon St. (fifth floor above Harry and Jean’s).
GPT says: This should be a great date night event—romantic even.

Saturday, July 19

Maybe this makes sushi more appetizing.

Nyotaimori (Naked Sushi)
It’s an exotic event in which sushi will be served on models' bodies. Music by DJ Silvio. Presented by LymeLight Entertainment. 9 p.m. $10 before midnight. Prevue, 2909 N. Davidson St.
GPT says: It’s naked sushi. Enough said.

Block Party IV
The series continues and this party features legendary DJ Spinderella (of Salt-N-Pepa). Hosted by Ifé Moore and Q92.7 will be broadcasting live. Cost varies. 9:30 p.m. Tempo Entertainment Complex, 4809 Wilkinson Blvd.
GPT says: Tempo usually attracts a 30 and older crowd.

Sunday, July 20

Def Poetry Charlotte (weekly event)
Hosted by popular Slam Charlotte poet Bluz, this event will be an open mic for spoken word artists. 9 p.m. Allure, 1508 S. Mint St. 704-713-7703.

Startling Statistic About CEOs' Salaries

Charlotte CEOs have been making the news a lot lately. After firing CEO Ken Thompson last month, Wachovia hired Bob Steel away from the U.S. Treasury Department last week to run—and hopefully save—the suddenly struggling bank. (You can read a blog I posted a couple of months ago about why I especially want Wachovia to survive.) And a couple of weeks ago, news broke that United Way of the Central Carolinas CEO Gloria Pace King was paid $1.2 million last year, with about $800,000 of that said to have been for underpaid pension payments.

During this currently struggling economy, people are paying a lot more attention to all things financial. In the past when we would hear of CEOs' astronomical salaries (I remember a couple of years ago Bank of America's CEO Ken Lewis's salary for the year including bonuses topped $20 million) we would usually say things like "I wish I made that kind of money." But now we're more outraged, as we see people losing their homes and gas escalating above $4 a gallon.

Last night I was watching Meet the Press (it originally airs Sunday mornings on NBC, but I was watching the rebroadcast on MSNBC) and I heard a startling statistic. The first half of the show featured surrogates for presidential candidates Senators John McCain and Barack Obama. Sen. Claire McCaskill of Missouri is the national co-chair for the Obama campaign and this is what she said as she spoke about the changes that are needed in how the economy is being run:

In America, CEOs at big companies make 400 times more than their employees. In Japan, CEOs make ten times more.

When Meet the Press host Tom Brokaw asked McCaskill what Obama would be able to do about that she said he would support legislation that required shareholders to approve CEO's salaries. I'd never heard of that, but I would certainly support it. At most large companies and organizations, such as Wachovia and the United Way, the board of directors approve CEO's pay. So you have 8-12 people in a boardroom who have fat pockets themselves making the decision, all the while they're hollering how their biggest responsibility is to their shareholders. Okay, so let the shareholders approve the salaries and see if they give the top brass golden parachutes while they, themselves, are just trying to stay afloat.

My Fondness for Mya Continues

In a blog post last week, I briefly mentioned my fondness for Mya. The sultry R&B singer was in town over the weekend to host a birthday party for Power 98's Consuella at Stir. I just viewed the photos on NightlifeLink.com. I've borrowed a few and posted them below.

I'm an 80s baby, but I do know that in the 70s there was a popular piece of clothing called hot pants. James Brown even made a song about them. But those hot pants were shorts. These pants that Mya are wearing, these are what I consider hot pants. Man Law.

Consuella and Mya at Stir on Friday.

See more photos from this event (more than 100 of them—not all are of Mya) by clicking here.

Local Photos on MediaTakeOut—Whodunnit?

I hate gossip websites. Even though they usually only target celebrities, I still look at it like I would be mad if I saw something hurtful written about me. Unfortunately, the bloggers and their readers love it. I won't get into a spiel again about what's right and wrong with the Internet, as I frequently do, but I will say this: why don't these bloggers and operators of these sites reveal themselves? Most of them hide behind their anonymity, which gives them the courage to write and post whatever they like. I'm a journalist. My name is on everything I do, dammit.

So, the reason for my soap box today: I just saw some unflattering photos of Fantasia on MediaTakeOut.com. MTO is one of the worst gossip sites around, which sadly, in that world makes it one of the best. The site posted photos yesterday from Fantasia's birthday party at NV Nightclub last Saturday. Coincidentally, I'd just seen the same photos a couple of days ago on local website CharlotteVibe.com. One of CV's photographers took them. But here's the problem. Someone picked the two most unflattering photos of Fantasia from the gallery of 36 photos on CV and posted them to MTO, ridiculing her in front of MTO's millions of viewers. Then, of course, with these gossip sites the comments sections take on a life of their own.

And to make matters worse, one of YOU is the culprit. I'm pretty sure it was a local person who sent the photos to MTO.

I'm not trying to draw anymore unnecessary or unneeded attention to the photos, which is why I'm not posting them here. But you can see them for yourself at the links below:

Photos on MediaTakeOut

Photos on CharlotteVibe (originals)

Fantasia: Queen of Stage Presence

Here's video of Fantasia, a Charlotte resident, performing recently at the African-American Heritage Festival in Baltimore. I don't know the name of the song she's singing, but man, you gotta see for yourself. It's like a workout just watching her.

K.I.S.S. Is Nice—I Hear

Charlotte has another new nightspot. It's exciting times in nightlife around here. The newest dig is K.I.S.S. Charlotte, opened by the owners of the Sunset Club (Sunset is currently closed for renovations—can't wait to see what it looks like after). K.I.S.S. is holding its grand opening through the weekend, beginning last night with a going away party for Kris Jenkins, who was traded from the Carolina Panthers to the New York Jets.

My brother went last night, so I'm giving you second-hand information here. But I'm sure I'll be checking K.I.S.S. out soon. (By the way, I have a twin brother. So if you know me, see me and wonder why I don't speak, it's likely because it's not me and he doesn't know you. This happens all the time.)

According to my brother, K.I.S.S. is a very plush lounge—a lot of seating, big leather couches. Not the kind of place you go to dance, because there's not much of a dance floor. It's the kind of place you go to, well, lounge. Kick back with your entourage, get VIP treatment. You're so well-dressed, you don't want to dance and get sweaty anyway. If you want to dance, dance on top of the couches like Diddy does! This seems to be the type of lounge you'll find in most big cities. In fact, the club is promoting itself as a Miami-style lounge.

Charlotte needs places like this. Not everyone, especially once you reach a certain age, wants to go to crowded dance clubs for a night out. The only thing that seems to be of concern right now is the location. K.I.S.S. is located off of Woodlawn Road in the plaza that houses The Gentleman's Club and The Red Door. Some may not be comfortable hanging out late at night in that area, but a place is only as good as the people it attracts. And based on last night along with Sunset's reputation, K.I.S.S. looks like it will be attracting the kind of people you want to party with. A lot of ballers and pretty ladies.

Digital Divas is holding a party there tonight. Starts at 10 p.m. and free admission before 11.

K.I.S.S. Charlotte

204 W. Woodlawn Rd.

Random Notes From Fashion Mixer

I attended the Pre-Charlotte NC Fashion Week Industry Night mixer at Rustic Martini last night. Here are some random things I observed.

• I've never seen so many tall chicks in one place in my life. I'm 6'2 so most women aren't at eye level with me. But these models/aspiring models, with their 5'10-plus frames and three- to four-inch heels, were face to face with me. I wonder if the short guys in attendance felt awkward.
• Everyone was very well dressed. I even threw on a fine pair of slacks. Though some people were dressed a little weird—I guess it was high fashion, maybe something from Europe.
• There were several gay dudes there. I guess that's the norm for the fashion industry. If you've ever watched Kimora Lee Simmons' Life in the Fab Lane then you've noticed that almost all of the men who work for her are gay. I watch the show to see the models, by the way. Man Law.
• A roomful of models/aspiring models and fashion designers has an air of arrogance.
• I was really happy to see an event like this in Charlotte.
• Rustic Martini (616. N. Tryon St.) is a great bar. I like the atmosphere. And I love the fact that it has its own parking lot, a rarity for uptown. Rustic Martini made Charlotte magazine's 2008 Best of the Best in Nightlife. (I worked on that feature.)
• I'm starting to get more comfortable drinking martinis. I still have a problem with the glasses they're served in, though. Man Law.
• Rustic Martini has a great martini list, which you would expect from a martini bar.
• I only knew a few people there, but a lot of the other people knew each other. It's the building of that fashion scene I've talked about.
• There was food there. Models do eat.
• Martinis are expensive.

Learn more about Charlotte NC Fashion Week, scheduled for September 18-20, by clicking here.

Events for the Week: July 7-13

Note: If I learn of more events for the week, I'll update this post.

Tuesday, July 8

Tone X and Friends

Enjoy a night of stand-up comedy, live skits, improv, and music, along with a performance by the Hunnie Dipz Dancers. $15. 8 p.m. Skandalos, 5317 E. Independence Blvd. 704-890-0771.

GPT says: It's a weekly hood affair. If you enjoy the comedy of Power 98's Tone X on the No Limit Larry and the Morning Maddhouse show then you'll likely enjoy this event.

Wednesday, July 9

Lunch and Stilettos
On the second Wednesday of each month enjoy free hors d’ouevres and personal shoe shopping. Free. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Epiphany Shoes, 136 Brevard Ct. 704-332-SHOE, http://www.epiphanyshoeboutique.com/.
GPT says: Who don't understand a broad with a mean shoe game / Whose up on Dot Dot Dot and Vera Wang. —“Change Clothes,” Jay-Z

Pop Life
This is the city’s most popular Wednesday networking event. Enjoy a great view of the city while listening to music by local DJs, sometimes accompanied by live instruments. Sponsored by Creative Loafing and the Sol Kitchen. Free. 6 p.m. Loft 1523, 1523 Elizabeth Ave. http://www.thesoulmovement.com/.
GPT says: The crowd, filled with attractive movers and shakers, usually peaks around 9 p.m., but people often hang well past 11.

Pre-Charlotte NC Fashion Week Industry Night
This is the latest installment of the mixers being held leading up to September’s fashion week in Charlotte. A special invite to all fashion and beauty professionals. Free. RSVP required, rsvp@charlottencfashionweek.com. 6-11 p.m. Rustic Martini, 616 N. Tryon St. http://www.charlottencfashionweek.com/.
GPT says: The next best thing to seeing models is seeing wannabe models. This should be a good networking event for people looking to break into the industry.

Unwind: The Pretty Girls Edition
Come network with young professionals, as the ladies of AKA continue their centennial celebration. Presented by Pinkies Up Productions and So Kel Events. Free. 6:30 p.m. Presto’s Bar & Grill, 445 W. Trade St. http://www.pinkiesupproductions.com/.
GPT says: If you loved AKAs in college, come see them fully grown.

Thursday, July 10

Alive After Five
This Charlotte staple is in its eighth year. From spring to fall you’ll find Charlotte’s professionals coming to this outdoor after-work party each Thursday. Free. 5-9 p.m. Wachovia Plaza, corners of Tryon St. and Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Free. 5-9 p.m. Wachovia Plaza, corners of Tryon St. and Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

Epicentre at Five
Epicentre is the new hotspot, with its new bars and clubs (Whisky River, Suite, Howling Moon, and more to come). And now there’s an outdoor after-work party to compete with Alive After Five. Free. 5 p.m. Pavilion at Epicentre, 210 E. Trade St.
GPT says: So far Epicentre at Five hasn’t proved to be much different that Alive After Five. But it’ll continue to draw a good crowd because it’s new.

$3 Talk About It Thursdays
Formerly held at Allure, this event allows you to mingle and do a little light partying while enjoying $3 drink specials. Ladies $3, men $10. 9 p.m. Prevue, 2909 N. Davidson St. 704-231-1582.

Omar Gaither NFL Day Camp Post Party

The Philadelphia Eagles linebacker and Charlotte native is having a party and has invited several of his NFL friends. Hosted by Q 92.7's Ife Moore. Cost varies. Ladies free before 11 p.m. Party starts 10 pm. Rustic Martini, 616 N. Tryon St. 704-605-9970.

GPT says: Here's your chance, ladies.

Friday, July 11

My friends used to be crazy about Mya. I'm rather fond of her myself.

Consuella’s Candyland
It’s a birthday celebration for Power 98’s Consuella and it’s being hosted by R&B singer Mya. Many celebrities, professional athletes, and radio personalities have been invited. Presented by Michael L Entertainment. Advance tickets $20. Ladies free before 9:30 p.m. Doors open 9 p.m. Stir Concert Theater, 3500 E. Independence Blvd. 877-993-8499, http://www.ez-tixx.com/.

KISS Lounge Grand Opening
Charlotte's got a new nightspot. This said-to-be plush new place is being opened by a couple of the partners from the Sunset Club. Cost varies. 10 p.m. KISS Lounge, 204 W. Woodlawn Rd. http://www.kisscharlotte.com/.
GPT says: If you like the Sunset Club, you should like KISS. And with it being located between The Gentleman's Club and The Red Door, this may be the making of Charlotte's first Red Light District.

Saturday, July 12

The White Affair 2008
Put on your all-white outfit and come out to this annual event. Presented by Executive Entertainment. Advance tickets $20. 9 p.m. Omni Charlotte Hotel, 132 E. Trade St. www.executiveent.com/events.html.
GPT says: There seems to be a “white” event every week now, but this is one of the most popular and well-attended ones.

Lil Kim
See the Queen Bee performing live. Presented by BlackIce. Cost varies. Advance tickets can be purchased at DTLR. 10 p.m. Crush Nightclub, 300 E. Stonewall St.
GPT says: Does Lil Kim have any new music to perform? Well, she at least has past hits.

Sunday, July 13

Def Poetry Charlotte Launch Party
Hosted by popular Slam Charlotte poet Bluz, this event will be an open mic for spoken word artists. 9 p.m. Allure, 1508 S. Mint St. 704-713-7703.
GPT says: Charlotte has a thriving spoke word and slam poetry scene. You’ll want to see these guys in action.

Brunch At Pewter Rose: Great Grits and Mimosa

Okay, this is already known by many Charlotteans, but it is a first for me. Plus, I try to blog about things that I hope will be helpful to Charlotte's many newcomers. Today I had brunch at Pewter Rose Bistro for the first time. I'd heard about how good it was, but I'd just never gotten around to going before now.

I attended a brunch for a media colleague who's leaving her producer position at WCNC to join the military (Good luck Alva!). I arrived at 11:30 this morning and the parking lot was packed, as was the restaurant and the patio. The service was pretty good considering the large crowd, and our party alone numbered close to 20. So if the service is good, the other very important element is the food, right?

I ordered pancakes, bacon, and grits. I also ordered a mimosa, which I had to wait a few minutes before I could place the order for since you can't buy alcohol in North Carolina until after 12 p.m. While we waited for our food, the server brought out complimentary scones. They're hard to describe—a type of sweet bread with apple in it I think—and they were really good.

The scone held me over until my food arrived. The grits were awesome. I only had to add a little salt, but other than that they were near perfect. The bacon was good, too—fried just right. But I was a little disappointed in the pancakes. There were three hefty ones, which was more than I could eat, but they lacked the flavor I've come to expect from great pancakes. Plus, I didn't like the syrup. Give me the thick stuff.

Bland pancakes aside, I highly recommend brunch at Pewter Rose. I would venture to guess that many people come here every Sunday, or at least once a month. It'll definitely be something I do more often on a late weekend morning/early afternoon after sleeping in.

Pewter Rose Bistro
Brunch
Saturday and Sunday
10 a.m-2:30 p.m.
1820 South Blvd.

Obama's In Charlotte Tomorrow

Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama will visit Charlotte tomorrow (Monday, July 7), the Associated Press is reporting. His campaign hasn't released many details about the visit, which is to be held at an unnamed middle school and is invitation only. So sorry folks, unless you've been invited you won't have a chance to see the Barack-star in person.

Obama is coming to listen. This is what it looks like.

Obama's campaign says he will be meeting with working families to discuss his plans to help those who have been hurt by the current state of the economy. Maybe it'll be televised. And I wonder at which middle school it will be held. One in the burbs or one in the hood? You know all this stuff is strategically planned.

Woods on South Has Closed; Plan B Is a Nice Option

Woods on South closed this week. The South End restaurant helmed by celebrity Chef Marvin Woods lasted only eight months. The restaurant was previously known as Southend Brewery. Woods tried to do some innovative things to the Southern cuisine on the menu, but it apparently wasn't enough to make the restaurant a success.

I think it's going to be a challenge for anyone who tries to run that space. It's one of the largest restaurants around, certainly in South End, which I'm sure makes the overhead expensive. The large space, including the patio, and the large parking lot made it an appealing place for special events. I went to several events there as Woods on South and a few when it was Southend Brewery. But a restaurant needs substantial daily lunch and dinner traffic to survive, and when I went there on regular occasions it was always rather sparse. I suggest whoever opens it next divide it into two separate restaurants.

There's a new restaurant in town, Plan B, that I checked out for the first time last night. Plan B opened about a month and a half ago in the former space of City Tavern on East Boulevard in Dilworth. The new place is more of a bar than a restaurant. Gone are the restaurant style tables and booths. They've been substituted with high tables, which are advantageous for standing at with drink in hand and appetizer on table.

Plan B looks cool inside. Very sleek with white walls and great lighting. The servers wear shirts that say "got plans?" And about its name, it's rather interesting, don't you think? It makes me think of the place being a second option or of the birth control method. Neither one is a good connotation for a new bar. I made a similar comment about the naming of the new Club Amnesia. I made a funny—at least I thought it was funny (read that blog post here).

I met a friend at Plan B last night who told me that Tuesday nights on the rooftop were popular. Apparently that was also the case when it was City Tavern. The weather was perfect to be on the roof. The appetizers we had were pretty good—Asian Chicken Quesadillas and Tex-Mex Tacos. But the best part of it all, which I'm sure is why this night is so popular, is that Tuesdays are half-price wine bottles night. You can't beat getting a bottle of wine for the price of two glasses.