Jay-Z's Here Tomorrow

If you've been "Jockin' Jay-Z," you'll have the opportunity to do it in person tomorrow. The Jigga Man aka Shawn Carter is coming to Charlotte for The Last Chance for Change Rally in support of Barack Obama.

I've said before that I didn't go to presidential election rallies because they seemed too much like fans at a concert. Well, now I have a reason to go because I'm a Jay-Z fan (I saw him in concert in Greensboro earlier this year).

No word on whether Jay-Z will perform, but it should be cool just to see the greatest rapper of all time (who's married to the hottest chick in the game). The event is free and doors open at 11:15 a.m. The rally will be held at the Phillip O. Berry Academy, 1430 Alleghany St.

Get more info by visiting nc.barackobama.com/ncjayz.

Also, for a chance to meet Jay-Z, text NCJAYZ to 62262.

Living in a presidential election battleground state sure does have its perks. The Beastie Boys and Sheryl Crow were here Monday. Usher was here Tuesday. The Hip Hop Caucus brought artists yesterday. All efforts to encourage people to get out and vote. We haven't had this many celebrities come through Charlotte since CIAA Week.

Happy Halloween!

Here are a list of events going on tonight for Halloween. I've had them posted in the right column on this site for the past week, but I thought I'd bring them to the forefront today.

SCarowinds
The Carolinas’ popular theme park is transformed into a place of fright. 7 p.m.-12 a.m. $34 and up. Carowinds, 14523 Carowinds Blvd. www.scarowinds.com.

CarnEvil
It’s two nights of debauchery. Several bands will perform. 8 p.m. $25 in advance, $35 at the door. Amos’ Southend, 1423 S. Tryon St. www.carnevil.org.

Monster Mash
This annual event usually sells out and proceeds will benefit The Bethlehem Center. Presented by Guys With Ties. 8 p.m. $10. Cans, 500 W. Fifth St. www.guyswithtiescharlotte.com.

All Black Affair
It’s a masquerade party and night at the museum. 9:30 p.m. Cost varies. Email isaiahsimmons@gmail.com for more info. Levine Museum of the New South, 200 E. Seventh St.

Purgatory
The popular Inner Circle crew is taking over two bars. Costumes are encouraged. 10 p.m. Cost varies. Pewter Rose and Tutto Mundo, 1820 South Blvd. www.innercircleevents.com.

Haunted Hom
This Halloween party at one of uptown's trendiest clubs will feature Scarowinds' Halloween Haunt. 10 p.m. Free. HOM (Feast, Play, and Liv are the three levels), 116 W. Fifth St. www.myhom.com.

Hollywood Halloween
Dress up as your favorite celebrity. Presented by MAZ Entertainment. 10 p.m. $10 before midnight. Arpa Wine Bar, 129 W. Trade St.

The Masquerade Edition
Come in your mask and sexy attire. Presented by Six Figure Entertainment. 10 p.m. Cost varies. Mimosa Grill, 327 S. Tryon St. www.sixfigureentertainment.com.

Obama Is Everywhere—And May Come to Charlotte One More Time

It's Tuesday about 6 p.m. and my doorbell rings. (I never get unexpected visitors except when it's someone selling something.) I go to the door and it's a Barack Obama campaign worker. She's going door to door, checking off registered voters. "Have you voted yet?" she asks. "No, ma'am," I say (she's old enough to be my grandmother). "I'm planning to vote Friday during the early voting." "May I ask who you're voting for?" she says. Then she gives me an Obama brochure.

It's Wednesday about 7:30 p.m. and my home phone rings. (Who has a home phone these days, right? Well, I got one in March when I began working from home.) I answer the phone and it's an Obama campaign worker. She sounds young, like maybe a college freshman. She's clearly reading a script when she tells me how important the election is. She asks if I've voted yet. I tell her I plan to Friday. "Do you need a ride?" she asks. "No," I say. She reminds me that Saturday is the last day for early voting then asks who am I planning to vote for.

Thirty minutes later, I, like most of you, am watching Obama's 30-minute infomercial that he paid to run on on seven networks. I find it intriguing, yet I fall asleep on it. I was tired--physically and probably of all the campaign stuff I've been seeing and hearing. I awaken at the rally portion of it. I guess the cheers from the crowd did it.

At 11:20 p.m. I watch Obama on The Daily Show. Then when that goes off, I switch over to MSNBC and see him and Bill Clinton doing a live rally together in Florida.

A few minutes ago, I read an article on The News & Observer's website that says Obama may come back to Charlotte Monday. "According to a local source close to the campaign, the Democratic presidential candidate will hold an event in Charlotte the day before the Nov. 4 election," the article states. But it also says the event hasn't been officially confirmed by the Obama campaign. Click here for the article.

Obama is serious about not letting up until after the election is over. He's leading in every national poll and ahead in several battleground states, but he's still fighting like he's the underdog. His campaign recently released this video, titled "Don't Let Up."

'Respect My Vote Tour' Stops In Charlotte Tomorrow

The Hip Hop Caucus is bringing its Respect My Vote Tour to Charlotte tomorrow to three DTLR locations. The campaign, which launched in July to encourage young voters, is supported by numerous artists and members of the hip-hop community. The most prominent spokesman is T.I. No word, though, on which of the artists will appear here tomorrow. If for nothing else, go there and get yourself a cool T-shirt.



Respect My Vote Tour stops at DTLR
Thursday, October 30

2-3:30 p.m.
Northlake Mall
6801 Northlake Mall Dr.

4-5 p.m.
Eastland Mall
5601 Central Ave.

6-8 p.m.
Westerly Station
3250 Wilkinson Blvd.

Click here for more details on Respect My Vote.

The Most Powerful People In Charlotte

Charlotte magazine presents "The Power 50" in its November issue, on newsstands now. The issue features a list of the 50 most powerful people in Charlotte, along with a few other interesting tidbits as to who the men and women are who run this city.


Click here to see if you (more likely your boss) made the list.

Panthers Third In ESPN's Power Rankings

We're halfway through the NFL season and the Carolina Panthers have a 6-2 record. I, for one, am very surprised. I should be saying that I'm pleasantly surprised since I'm a Panthers fan, but I'm not a believer just yet. I'm not a bandwagon or fair-weather fan; I just look at things realistically. And I'm not convinced the Panthers will equal their win total in the second half of the season. But I could be wrong.

I was watching SportsCenter this afternoon when they showed their Power Rankings for the NFL teams through Week 8. They ranked the Panthers third, only behind the Tennessee Titans (7-0) and New York Giants (6-1). The Titans and Giants maintained their first and second place spots from the previous week, while the Panthers moved up from seventh.

The reason I was so skeptical of the Panthers coming into this season was because I felt they didn't make enough changes in the offseason. Though it appears the few moves they did make, along with a healthy Jake Delhomme, are paying off. But I still have my doubts. Pay me no mind, die-hard Panthers fans. But I can't say I value much what ESPN has to say. They picked the Panthers to go to the Super Bowl in 2006 and 2007, and we all know that didn't happen.

When Winning the Lottery Isn't Lucky

The poor guy in this video was just trying to collect the $30 he'd won with his lottery ticket when a gunman held up this convenience store on The Plaza.

Events for the Week: Oct. 27-Nov. 2

Note: If I learn of more events, I’ll update this post throughout the week. Also, for a list of Halloween parties, see right column on this site.

Tuesday, October 28

Early Vote Rally
Event features celebrity appearances by Usher and Hill Harper. Doors open 3 p.m. Free. Grady Cole Center, 310 Kings Dr.

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. 8 p.m. $15. Skandalos, 5317 E. Independence Blvd. 704-890-0771.

Touch One Tuesdays (weekly event)
See Charlotte’s gifted poets perform—and if you have the courage, join them onstage—during this open mic event. Presented by Touch One Productions. Hosted by Filmore and music by DJ Flemingo. 10 p.m. $10. Wine-Up. 3306 N. Davidson St. (NoDa). www.wine-up.com.

Wednesday, October 29

Pop Life (weekly event)
The most popular social networking event on a Wednesday night starts after work but runs late. Music by select DJs. Presented by Creative Loafing and The Sol Kitchen. 6 p.m. Free. Apostrophe Lounge, 1440 S. Tryon St. (South End). www.thesolkitchen.com.

Thursday, October 30

New Paradigm or Politics As Usual?
Hodding Carter and Ed Williams will lead a discussion on southern politics from the past to the present, and presidential leadership and the current campaign. The evening will also feature poet, artist, and storyteller Kali Fergusen. Reception 6:30 p.m., program 7:30 p.m. $10. Reservations recommended. Levine Museum of the New South, 200 E. Seventh St. www.museumofthenewsouth.org.

New Kids on the Block
Relive your teen years and see NKOTB live. Opening act will be Lady Gaga. 8 p.m. $35-$75. Time Warner Cable Arena, 333 E Trade St. www.timewarnercablearena.com.

Touch One Thursdays (weekly event)
Come and enjoy a live band and spoken word by Charlotte’s slam poets. An after-party follows. 9 p.m. $10. Wine Up, 3306 N. Davidson St. www.wine-up.com.

No Limit Thursdays: The Launch Party
It’s the first installment for this new weekly event hosted by Power 98’s No Limit Larry. Music by DJ Buttafingaz and a special appearance by Avant. 9:30 p.m. Free before 10:30 p.m., afterwards cost varies. Stir Nightclub, 3500 E. Independence Blvd. www.stirnc.com.

Friday, October 31

See right column on this site for a list of Halloween parties.

Friday Afterwork Rendezvous (weekly event)
End your workweek on a high note at this networking event, held at a different venue each week. Enjoy live music and drink and appetizer specials. Presented by Talk of the Town. 6-9 p.m. Free. Ruth’s Chris Uptown, 222 S. Tryon St.

Grown Folks Fridays
Party with a 25-and-older crowd. Music by DJ Rham. Kitchen open all night and serving chicken and waffles. Cost varies. 10 p.m. Ladies free before 11 p.m. Stir Nightclub, 3500 E. Independence Blvd. www.stirnc.com.

Saturday, November 1

Carolina Renaissance Festival
Travel back centuries and enjoy outdoor theater, circus entertainment, an arts and crafts marketplace, a jousting tournament, and a feast fit for royalty. This annual festival runs for consecutive weekends October 4-November 16. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. $17 for adults, $6 for kids ages 5-12. 16445 Poplar Tent Rd., Huntersville (go to website for directions instead of using Mapquest or Google Maps). www.royalfaires.com/carolina.

High Society Saturdays
If you aren’t partied out from Halloween night, come here and come dressed to impress. Hosted by radio personality Ifé Moore. Music by DJ Dr. 9 p.m. $15 and up. Rustic Martini, 616 N. Tryon St.

The Blue Party
It’s a party to celebrate Democratic Presidential Nominee Barack Obama. Partiers are asked to wear blue. 10 p.m. $10 in advance. Ember Grille, inside The Westin, 601 S. College St. www.mazentertainment.net.

Sunday, November 2

Carolina Renaissance Festival
Travel back centuries and enjoy outdoor theater, circus entertainment, an arts and crafts marketplace, a jousting tournament, and a feast fit for royalty. This annual festival runs for consecutive weekends October 4-November 16. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. $17 for adults, $6 for kids ages 5-12. 16445 Poplar Tent Rd., Huntersville (go to website for directions instead of using Mapquest or Google Maps). www.royalfaires.com/carolina.

Ssshh! Sensual Seduction Sundays
Enjoy an infusion of open-mic poetry and jazz over candlelight. After-party and dancing follows. Presented by Pink Diamond. 9 p.m. $10. Happy Hour Bar and Lounge, 3603 S. Tryon St. www.pinkdiamondpromo.com.

How I Cost Obama the Election

Apparently it's true. Because videos don't lie, right?



It's a spoof you can do to your friends (as it was done to me). Click here.

Happy Birthday Jessica!

Actress Jessica Stroup turned 22 today. I bet she's having some big Hollywood-style party, one where only pretty people and young celebrity A-listers get in. Stroup stars as Silver on the new 90210 on The CW. She grew up here and graduated from Providence High School.

I don't know how much the new 90210 is like the old Beverly Hills, 90210. (They shortened the name and a couple of the old cast members appear. Oh, and the new version has black people.) But I do know they've continued the trend of casting adults to play high-schoolers. I think Stroup's character is 16, which would make it six years younger than her actual age. I'm not knocking her, though. The popularity of this show could be good for her career. And at least it's not as bad as when Luke Perry was on the show. He was old enough to be his character's father.

Fantasia Is In Her Own Lane

As you should know, the BET Hip-Hop Awards show was held in Atlanta over the weekend. It airs tonight at 8 p.m. (I don't know why BET doesn't air its show live--or at least with a taped-delay--like MTV does.) As would be expected, there were a lot of parties going on in the ATL. I know some of you went down there just to party.

Well, here's a photo of Fantasia from a party Jermaine Dupri hosted. I'm not even here to comment on the photo. Like it or not, Fantasia has her own style. And she appears not to care what anyone thinks. That's the making of a trendsetter, if you ask me. I'll be watching the Hip-Hop Awards tonight and it'll be interesting to see what Fantasia is wearing.

By the way, the reason I blog about 'Tasia from time to time, in case you didn't know, is because she's one of us--she lives in Charlotte. Though she spends a lot of time in Atlanta nowadays. She may have a home there, too, aside from dating ATL rapper Young Dro.

Joe Biden's In Charlotte Tomorrow

Democratic vice presidential nominee Joe Biden will hold a rally at UNC Charlotte Thursday. These candidates are courting us like we're the hot chick at the small high school.

I'm surprised Obama and 'em are still letting ol' Joe stump after his "they're going to test him" remarks a few days ago. I doubt if he'll draw half the people Obama did here last month. I won't go see him just like I haven't gone to see any of the national figures. If you've been reading my blog then you know what that's all about.

Speaking of this blog, my second ever post here on Grown People Talking was about me meeting Tatyana Ali when she came here as a surrogate for Obama ("I Felt Like a Fresh Prince"). That seems so long ago--because it was. And these campaigns started way before that.

But please, don't let my cynicism deter you. Here are the details for the "Change We Need Rally with Joe Biden" tomorrow:

UNC Charlotte Campus

Halton Arena in the Barnhardt Student Activity Center

9201 University City Blvd.

Doors open at 8:30 a.m. Program begins at 10:30 a.m.

Events for the Week: October 20-26

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

Wednesday, October 22

Pop Life (weekly event)
It’s the most popular social networking event on a Wednesday night. It starts after work but runs late. Music by select DJs. Presented by Creative Loafing and The Sol Kitchen. 6 p.m. Free. Apostrophe Lounge, 1440 S. Tryon St. (South End). www.thesolkitchen.com.

Speed Dating
If you’ve never gone speed dating, you’re missing out. Complimentary refreshments and drink specials will be served. Presented by Coretta Livingston. 6-9 p.m. $15. Kokomo’s Coffeehouse, 901 E. 4th St.

Thursday, October 23

Business After Hours
Held at a different venue each month, this event offers great hors d’oeuvres and drinks while you mingle with Charlotte’s business leaders and professionals. Presented by the Charlotte Chamber. $15 for non-Charlotte Chamber members, free for members. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Hyatt Place Charlotte Airport, 2950 Oak Lake Blvd. www.charlottechamber.com.

Touch One Thursdays (weekly event)
Come and enjoy a live band and spoken word by Charlotte’s slam poets. An after-party follows. 9 p.m. $10. Wine Up, 3306 N. Davidson St. www.wine-up.com.

Friday, October 24

Wine Day Fridays (weekly event)
This event recently moved from Wednesdays to Fridays so you can roll right into the weekend. Enjoy some new wines while listening to music. 5 p.m. Free. Village at SouthPark, corner of Sharon Road and Morrison Boulevard (in front of M5). www.elevatecharlotte.com.

Friday Afterwork Rendezvous (weekly event)
End your workweek on a high note at this networking event, held at a different venue each week. Enjoy live music and drink and appetizer specials. Presented by Talk of the Town. 6-9 p.m. Free. The Grape at SouthPark, 4400 Sharon Rd.

Grown Folks Fridays
Party with a 25-and-older crowd. Music by DJ Rham. Kitchen open all night and serving chicken and waffles. Cost varies. 10 p.m. Ladies free before 11 p.m. Stir Nightclub, 3500 E. Independence Blvd. www.stirnc.com.

Saturday, October 25

Carolina Renaissance Festival
Travel back centuries and enjoy outdoor theater, circus entertainment, an arts and crafts marketplace, a jousting tournament, and a feast fit for royalty. This annual festival runs for consecutive weekends October 4-November 16. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. 16445 Poplar Tent Rd., Huntersville (go to website for directions instead of using Mapquest or Google Maps). www.royalfaires.com/carolina.

Insatiable Saturday
Party with a lively crowd, including JCSU alumni celebrating their homecoming. Presented by MAZ Entertainment. 10 p.m. $10 and up. City Tavern Uptown, 214 N. Tryon St., inside Hearst Tower.

Uptown Saturday Night
Party in the heart of uptown at this special JCSU Homecoming edition. Music by DJ Stretch-O-Matic. Presented by IV Horseman Entertainment. 10 p.m. $10-$15. Verona Lounge, 127 N. Tryon St., second floor of the Ivey Building.

Sunday, October 26

Carolina Renaissance Festival
Travel back centuries and enjoy outdoor theater, circus entertainment, an arts and crafts marketplace, a jousting tournament, and a feast fit for royalty. This annual festival runs for consecutive weekends October 4-November 16. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. 16445 Poplar Tent Rd., Huntersville (go to website for directions instead of using Mapquest or Google Maps). www.royalfaires.com/carolina.

Ebony Fashion Fair
It’s the 51st annual event where great fashion and hair will be on display. Prizes will also be given away at this event with proceeds going to local charities. Presented by the Zetas of Charlotte. 6 p.m. $25. Ovens Auditorium, 2700 E. Independence Blvd. www.zetasofcharlotte.org.

Ssshh! Sensual Seduction Sundays
Enjoy an infusion of open-mic poetry and jazz over candlelight. After-party and dancing follows. Presented by Pink Diamond. 9 p.m. $10. Happy Hour Bar and Lounge, 3603 S. Tryon St. www.pinkdiamondpromo.com.

Anthony Hamilton On 106 & Park Tomorrow

Tune into BET's 106 & Park Wednesday, October 22, at 6 p.m. to see Anthony Hamilton debut his video for "Cool," which features David Banner. It'll be interesting to see what questions hosts Terrence J and Rocsi ask him, particularly since Hamilton makes grown people's music (GPT-approved) and the show clearly targets teens. He'll likely still have a lot of fans in the audience, though, because many of the kids know him best from the hooks he sings on rappers' songs (one of the most recent is "Everything," his collaboration with Young Jeezy).

I would imagine that Hamilton and Terrence have some type of friendship since they're both from North Carolina and they've been places together, including when both of them served on the panel for the Hip-Hop Summit that was held here back in April. Click here to read my blog post from that event nearly six months ago. That was right after I launched Grown People Talking. My, how time flies!

Random Notes From Watching Bank of America on 60 Minutes

I just finished watching Bank of America and its CEO Ken Lewis on CBS's 60 Minutes. (I'm pretty sure I'm the first person on the 'net tonight to blog about it.) Lewis was interviewed by correspondent Lesley Stahl. Much of their interview was a walk-and-talk through Bank of America's offices and downtown Charlotte.

Here are my notes.

• Lewis said "every other American family in the United States does business with us in some form or fashion."
• During this economic crisis, people have been taking their money out of other banks and depositing it into Bank of America because it seems to be the strongest and safest bank.
• The way BofA became the largest bank in the country is by buying the number one companies in virtually every category of banking: Countrywide in mortgages, MBNA in credit cards, etc.
• BofA is a nearly $3 trillion conglomerate, "the Wal-Mart of banking," Stahl says.
• The segment showed BofA's trading floor, showing "600 wheeler-dealers" and what Stahl said is "the iconic image of Wall Street." Except this trading floor is 600 miles south of New York. "The biggest bank in America is headquartered in Charlotte?" Stahl asks rhetorically. "Some people don't even know what state Charlotte is in, whether it's in North or South Carolina. Am I insulting you?" "No," Lewis says. "In fact, I always say 'Charlotte, North Carolina' so they don't have to ask questions."
• Lewis walks with Stahl down Tryon Street and points to all of the buildings BofA owns. "This building, that building, that building, that building..."
• "We didn't like being small. There's nothing really attractive about being small," says former BofA CEO Hugh McColl. He's then asked if he felt like New York used to treat him and his bank like country bumpkins. And he basically says he wasn't trying to take over New York; he wanted to take over the country.
• Says Stahl, "The crowning victory came last month when Wall Street's most famous investment houses were collapsing under the weight of their toxic portfolios and needed rescuing. They went hat in hand to Charlotte, North Carolina."
• Lewis said New York's brokers are being paid too much money. He also said that executive compensation has gotten out of hand. When asked if he thinks his job is secure, he looks stumped, then laughs and says, "I must think that because I don't think about that question."
• "Did you defeat Wall Street," Stahl asks. "To some degree, we're part of it so I don't know that we defeated it," Lewis says. "Well, if you're number one, and if the idea was to compete with New York or Wall Street, you won," Stahl insists. "Yes, we have won in that sense."
• The segment makes no mention of Wachovia. All the camera had to do was pan left.

Click here for a podcast of the episode.

Candid Shots From Panthers Sidelines

I was on the sidelines of today's Carolina Panthers vs. New Orleans Saints game. I'm working on a magazine article so I was there to interview a few people before the game. Then I hung around a little longer. Here's what I saw.

Reggie Bush running into the locker room after pre-game warm-ups. I overheard a fan yelling, "I saw your girlfriend's sex tape!"

Miss North Carolina Amanda Watson singing the national anthem. After her pageant days are over, she could have a career as a singer. And maybe a future as a vice presidential candidate.

Retired Panther Mike Rucker and his family reminding fans to behave during the game. You could smell the beer in the air.

The Top Cats.

Man Law.

This reminds me that just because I have a camera doesn't mean I'm a photographer.

Behind the Scenes of 'Cool'

It's Anthony Hamilton and David Banner making the video (but without MTV).

Anthony Hamilton's 'Cool' New Video

Anthony Hamilton has a new video for "Cool," featuring David Banner. It's the first single off his upcoming album, The Point of It All. The release date for the album, by the way, has been moved to December 2. In advance of the album, though, the Charlotte native is kicking off his Play It Cool tour November 5 in Chicago. There are 25 cities confirmed so far and he will perform in front of the home crowd November 23 at Amos' Southend. Keep up with Hamilton at www.anthonyhamilton.com. And enjoy the video below.

Katie Couric's In Charlotte Tomorrow

Katie Couric will be broadcasting live from Charlotte tomorrow for the CBS Evening News. Don't worry about the site because the public won't be allowed there. It's not like her old days on the Today Show, when you could stand in the background, scream, wave, and flash signs. The city's skyline will be the backdrop for this show.

Charlotte is the first stop of three cities in presidential election battleground states Couric will be broadcasting from leading up to the election. As you should know, North Carolina is currently a tight race for Obama and McCain. Aside from talking about those two, Couric will interview Elizabeth Dole and Kay Hagan, the two women who are battling for U.S. Senate.

I met Hagan last month when she spoke at the "Your Voice. Your Vote." event my black journalists organization held. She even sent me a nice letter afterwards thanking us for working "to make this event happen and even when Senator Obama's visit threatened to steal the spotlight, you still had a great event." Yes we did.

Another Chance to Meet Local Candidates

Between now and November 4 I'm going to continue to harp on not the importance of voting--you have Diddy, Bow Wow, and Leonardo DiCaprio telling you that--but the importance of knowing who and what you're voting for. As I've been saying for weeks, particularly to the first-time voters, when you go to the polls there's going to be more boxes to check other than the one next to Obama or McCain. And you wouldn't be "rocking the vote" if you're guessing.

So after you watch tonight's presidential debate, make sure you go to this event tomorrow. The Charlotte Chamber and the Greater Charlotte Hospitality & Tourism Alliance are hosting a Meet & Greet the Candidates reception. You'll have the opportunity to meet candidates seeking office in Charlotte and Mecklenburg County. You know, the people who decide how much and where local money goes for neighborhood improvements, roads, schools, parks, to fight crime, and more. Yeah, the little stuff.

Not only is tomorrow's event free, but food will be served from some of Charlotte’s best restaurants: Omaha Steakhouse, Sonny's Real Pit Bar-B-Q, Brixx Woodfired Pizza, Dilworth Neighborhood Grille, Blackfinn Restaurant & Saloon, and more. It's 5:30-8 p.m. at the Charlotte Chamber’s Belk Action Center, 330 S. Tryon St. Click here to register to attend.

Relationship Reality Show Casting Call

The CW is holding two casting calls in Charlotte this weekend for a new relationship reality show. The producers are looking for "young hot couples who’ve been together for over a year but haven’t taken that next step."


The first casting call will be held this Saturday, 2-6 p.m., at The Grape at SouthPark, 4300 Sharon Rd. The second will be held Sunday, 2-6 p.m., at Cans, 500 W. Fifth St. Click here for more info.

I Don't Care If McCain Comes Saturday

It's being reported that John McCain may appear in Charlotte this weekend. The source is the chairman of N.C. Citizens for McCain, but McCain's campaign hasn't confirmed it.

I think presidential campaign rallies at this point are useless. Just like I thought it was useless when Barack Obama came to Charlotte last month. The only people who are going to these rallies are the supporters of the candidates, so what are the candidates gaining? How does seeing your speech and rhetoric in person solve any more problems than seeing it on TV as we do daily? Plus, I'm convinced there aren't any "undecided voters" this late in the game. Anyone who says he or she is an undecided voter is either lying or hasn't been paying attention for the past six months.

But if McCain does indeed come to Charlotte, he'll attract thousands of supporters, just as 30,000 came to see Obama last month. I wish the two candidates would find something more productive and effective to do during these final three weeks leading up to the election. Forgive me but I have campaign fatigue. Perhaps it's because I watch too much cable news, but I don't care to hear another speech from either one of these guys. And I'm voting for one of them next month. I just hope the winner makes good on all of these promises they've been making during the campaign. And I hope at some point the voters understand that they need to stop acting like fans and remember to hold their elected officials accountable.

Events for the Week: October 13-19

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

Monday, October 13

Uptown Mondays
If you wanna get the party started early in the week, here you go. Free food, $3 martinis, and $3 happy hour all night. And enjoy Monday Night Football on a big screen. 7 p.m. Free. Grand Central, 101 N. Tryon St.

Tuesday, October 14

Center City Schmooze
This annual networking event, presented by the Charlotte Chamber Center City Chapter, will be held at one of Charlotte’s premier night spots. Admission includes two complimentary drinks, hors d’oeuvres by BlackFinn American Saloon, and free entrance into Whisky River and BlackFinn after 9 p.m. 6-9 p.m. $25. Suite at Epicentre, 210 E. Trade St. www.charlottechamber.com/events.

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. 8 p.m. $15. Skandalos, 5317 E. Independence Blvd. 704-890-0771.

Touch One Tuesdays (weekly event)
See Charlotte’s gifted poets perform—and if you have the courage, join them onstage—during this open mic event. Presented by Touch One Productions. Hosted by Filmore and music by DJ Flemingo. 9 p.m. $10. Wine-Up. 3306 N. Davidson St. (NoDa). www.wine-up.com.

$3 Tuesdays (weekly event)
It's a $3 cover, $3 drink specials, and $3 chicken and waffles each Tuesday night. Also enjoy old school hip-hop and R&B spun by DJ Supreme. 9 p.m. Ladies free before 10 p.m. Stir Nightclub, 3500 E. Independence Blvd. www.stirnc.com.

Wednesday, October 15

Pop Life (weekly event)
After taking a month off to change venues, the popular Wednesday social networking event hasn’t missed a step. Presented by Creative Loafing and The Sol Kitchen. 6 p.m. Free. Apostrophe Lounge, 1440 S. Tryon St. (South End). www.thesolkitchen.com.

A Westside Story
Enjoy music, drinks, and a soul food buffet at this networking event held at a historic African-American club. Special invited guests include local politicians. Presented by Digital Divas. 6-10 p.m. Free. Excelsior Club, 921 Beatties Ford Road. www.digitaldivasevents.com.

Debate Watch Party: The Finale
Watch the final debate between presidential candidates Barack Obama and John McCain in style. Food and drinks while they last. Presented by GenerationEngage. 8 p.m. Free. KISS Lounge, 204 W. Woodlawn Rd. www.generationengage.org/state/chltt/indexnew.php.

Thursday, October 16

Third Thursdays: Live Jazz
Enjoy live jazz, light refreshments, and great art during special late hours at the museum. This month’s featured musician is Calvin Edwards. Sponsored by V101.9. Mint Museum of Craft + Design, 220 N. Tryon St. Free. 5-8 p.m. (music 6:30-7:30 p.m.) www.mintmuseum.org.

Meet & Greet the Candidates
This annual candidates reception, presented by the Charlotte Chamber and the Greater Charlotte Hospitality & Tourism Alliance, brings members of the business community together with candidates seeking office in Charlotte and Mecklenburg County. Food and beverages will be served from some of Charlotte’s best restaurants. 5:30-8 p.m. Free. Charlotte Chamber’s Belk Action Center, 330 S. Tryon St. www.charlottechamber.com/events.

Cufflinks and Cocktails
This installment of the monthly after-work event is “The Bar Hop.” You’ll experience three upscale restaurants and bars in Piedmont Town Center in SouthPark. The hop starts at Oceanaire Seafood Room, then on to Dolcetto Wine Room, and ends at Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse. 6 p.m. Free. Piedmont Town Center, 4720 Piedmont Row Dr. www.cltkappas.com/cufflinks-cocktails.

Friday, October 17

Wine Day Fridays (weekly event)
This event recently moved from Wednesdays to Fridays so you can roll right into the weekend. Enjoy some new wines while listening to music. 5 p.m. Free. Village at SouthPark, corner of Sharon Road and Morrison Boulevard (in front of M5). www.elevatecharlotte.com.

Where Is the Love?
The relationship series continues and this month’s topic is “Dating with Children/Dating Someone with Children?” Presented by Not the Average Chicks. 6:30 p.m. Free. Café Room and Lounge, 1250 Lucky Penny St.

SCarowinds
The Carolinas’ popular theme park is transformed into a place of fright for the Halloween season. 7 p.m.-12 a.m. $34 and up. Carowinds, 14523 Carowinds Blvd. www.scarowinds.com.

Grown Folks Fridays
Party with a 25-and-older crowd. Music by DJ Rham. Kitchen open all night and serving chicken and waffles. 10 p.m. Men free before 11 p.m., ladies free before 12 a.m. Stir Nightclub, 3500 E. Independence Blvd. www.stirnc.com.

Saturday, October 18

Carolina Renaissance Festival
Travel back centuries and enjoy outdoor theater, circus entertainment, an arts and crafts marketplace, a jousting tournament, and a feast fit for royalty. This annual festival runs for consecutive weekends October 4-November 16. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. $17 for adults, $6 for kids ages 5-12. 16445 Poplar Tent Rd., Huntersville (go to website for directions instead of using Mapquest or Google Maps). www.royalfaires.com/carolina.

3rd Ward Picnic in the Park
Enjoy an afternoon of picnicking and live music at this annual event. Bring your own picnic or enjoy free hotdogs, chips, and drinks (for the first 500 people). Johnson and Wales will provide dessert. 12-2 p.m. Frazier Park. 1201 W. Fourth St.

SCarowinds
The Carolinas’ popular theme park is transformed into a place of fright for the Halloween season. 7 p.m.-12 a.m. $34 and up. Carowinds, 14523 Carowinds Blvd. www.scarowinds.com.

Dangerous
This event will feature a fashion show highlighting Charlotte-based boutique Jordanos’ fall lines, a diamond giveaway, live entertainment, hair exhibits by top stylists, and swag bags (Oscar-style gift bags). Presented by Jordanos, Elevate Magazine, and Suite Nightclub. Proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society. 8 p.m.–2 a.m. $20; VIP is also available. EpiCentre Rooftop Pavilion, 210 East Trade St. www.bandtastic.com.

Sunday, October 19

Carolina Renaissance Festival
Travel back centuries and enjoy outdoor theater, circus entertainment, an arts and crafts marketplace, a jousting tournament, and a feast fit for royalty. This annual festival runs for consecutive weekends October 4-November 16. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. $17 for adults, $6 for kids ages 5-12. 16445 Poplar Tent Rd., Huntersville (go to website for directions instead of using Mapquest or Google Maps). www.royalfaires.com/carolina.

SCarowinds
The Carolinas’ popular theme park is transformed into a place of fright for the Halloween season. 7 p.m.-12 a.m. $34 and up. Carowinds, 14523 Carowinds Blvd. www.scarowinds.com.

Ssshh! Sensual Seduction Sundays
Enjoy an infusion of open-mic poetry and jazz over candlelight during the first and third Sundays. Featuring jazz saxophonist Shableek Richardson and nationally ranked slam poet Bluz. After-party and dancing follows. Presented by Pink Diamond. 9 p.m. $10. Happy Hour Bar and Lounge, 3603 S. Tryon St. www.pinkdiamondpromo.com.

Advanced Screening of The Secret Life of Bees

RushmoreDrive.com is hosting a special screening of The Secret Life of Bees next Tuesday at Ballantyne Village Theatre. That's three days before the film, which stars Queen Latifah, Jennifer Hudson, Alicia Keys, and Dakota Fanning, hits theaters nationwide. The invitation says it's a private screening, but it appears that anyone can register online. RSVP is required. Click here.

Today's the Deadline to Register to Vote

If you're a North Carolina resident, today is the last day for you to register to vote for next month's election. If you haven't registered yet, either you're not going to or you're the world's biggest procrastinator. This year has seen the biggest promotions for voter registration in history. You couldn't turn on the TV or radio or surf the Net without hearing or seeing something or someone telling you to register to vote.

Registering to vote wasn't always so easy. Remember?

It's not that hard, you slacker. You can get all of the info you need from the North Carolina State Board of Elections website. Click here. And according to the site, as of today 6,072,277 North Carolinians are registered to vote. It breaks down like this:

-Democratic: 2,758,161
-Republican: 1,967,441
-Libertarian: 1,987
-Unaffiliated: 1,344,688

-You: 1

People Will Party When It's Free

During this economic crisis, people are looking to cut costs wherever they can. Reports released today show that consumer spending was down in September and analysts expect it to continue to fall the remainder of the year. I wonder if nightlife is being affected. I would think fewer people are going out or spending less money when they are out. I've noticed of late that more clubs and promoters are having free parties (hoping that they can make up for it at the bar, I assume).

Free parties are a welcomed relief because Charlotte promoters are notorious for renting venues and jacking up the price at the door. "Forty dollars to get in here and an hour ago this was just a restaurant?" I know there are a lot of you who are familiar with that sentiment. It doesn't have to be free for me to attend, but I like to avoid being taken advantage of.

KISS Lounge, one of Charlotte's newest and nicest clubs, has free nights sometimes. They recently kicked off Free Friday, the first Friday of every month. Here's a photo from the event last Friday. KISS is a very well-appointed lounge, but it's so crowded in there you can't tell. I'm sure the outdoor patio was equally packed. It's never been that crowded the nights I've been there, and I bet it's because those times there was a cover charge.

It's Race Week

The Bank of America 500 is this Saturday at Lowe's Motor Speedway and there's a lot going on in Charlotte this week surrounding the race. Many activities start today. If you're a NASCAR fan, you'll have several opportunities to see drivers up close. If you're not a fan or don't know much about racing, here's your chance to see what all the fuss is about.

ThatsRacin.com has compiled a great list of race week events and driver appearances. Click here.

Lowe's Motor Speedway's website has the official fan guide. (Jessica Simpson will perform a 40-minute pre-race concert.) Click here.

And finally, the October issue of Charlotte magazine, on newsstands now, features a great photo essay by Chris Edwards that is made up of photos from last year's Bank of America 500. Click here.

Nicole Atkins On 'The 101' Tonight

Catch singer Nicole Atkins performing tonight as part of the DirecTV Concert Series. That means you have to have DirecTV to see it. The one-hour concert airs at 7 p.m. on the satellite-only channel called The 101 (which is channel 101). The 101 has been showing some great concerts. I saw Katy Perry and Ferras over the weekend and I was surprised that I enjoyed it. If you can't catch Atkins tonight, the concert will be re-airing.

Atkins is a New Jersey native who spent several years here as a student at UNC Charlotte and lived here a while after graduating. She was writing songs the whole time and performed with other local artists, including the Avett Brothers. She landed a record deal with Columbia Records in 2006 and released her debut album, Neptune City, almost a year ago. She was last in Charlotte in the spring for a couple of shows.

Read more about Atkins in an article I wrote for Charlotte magazine earlier this year. Click here.

Events for the Week: October 6-12

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

Tuesday, October 7

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. 8 p.m. $15. Skandalos, 5317 E. Independence Blvd. 704-890-0771.

Touch One Tuesdays (weekly event)
See Charlotte’s gifted poets perform—and if you have the courage, join them onstage—during this open mic event. Presented by Touch One Productions. Hosted by Filmore and music by DJ Flemingo. 9 p.m. $10. Wine-Up. 3306 N. Davidson St. (NoDa). www.wine-up.com.

$3 Tuesdays (NEW weekly event)
It's a $3 cover, $3 drink specials, and $3 chicken and waffles each Tuesday night. Also enjoy old school hip-hop and R&B spun by DJ Supreme. Ladies free before 10 p.m. Stir Nightclub, 3500 E. Independence Blvd. www.stirnc.com.

Wednesday, October 8

Pop Life (weekly event)
After taking a month off to change venues, the popular Wednesday social networking event hasn’t missed a step. Presented by Creative Loafing and The Sol Kitchen. 6 p.m. Free. Apostrophe Lounge, 1440 S. Tryon St. (South End). www.thesolkitchen.com.

Mary J. Blige with Robin Thicke
CANCELLED...Again.

Thursday, October 9

Taste of the World
This annual guided tour through East Charlotte's International District includes opening and closing receptions at the Charlotte Museum of History and the VanLandingham Estate, and samplings of cuisine at authentic international restaurants. Buy a ticket and bring a friend for free. 5 p.m. Charlotte Museum of History, 3500 Shamrock Dr. www.charlotteeast.com/TasteofWorldnext.htm.

Premiere Party for GoodWorks with Rahman Khan
It promises to be a swanky party to introduce a great new TV show that will showcase the best Charlotte has to offer. 6-8:30 p.m. $35. Ballantyne Village Theatre, 14814 John J. Delaney Dr. www.goodworkstv.net.

Friday, October 10

Wine Day Fridays (weekly event)
This event recently moved from Wednesdays to Fridays so you can roll right into the weekend. Enjoy some new wines while listening to music. 5 p.m. Free. Village at SouthPark, corner of Sharon Road and Morrison Boulevard (in front of M5). www.elevatecharlotte.com.

Friday Afterwork Rendezvous (weekly event)
End your workweek on a high note at this networking event, held at a different venue each week. Enjoy live music and drink and appetizer specials. Presented by Talk of the Town. To learn this week’s location, text “rendezvous” to 58714. 6-9 p.m. Free.

SCarowinds
The Carolinas’ popular theme park is transformed into a place of fright for the Halloween season. 7 p.m.-12 a.m. $34 and up. Carowinds, 14523 Carowinds Blvd. www.scarowinds.com.

Fresh Fest
If you love ol’ school hip-hop, you’re going to love this. See Naughty By Nature, Doug E. Fresh, Slick Rick, Big Daddy Kane, Whodini, and The Force MD’s perform your favorites from the 1980s and ‘90s. 8 p.m. $35.50-$42.50. Cricket Arena, 2700 E. Independence Blvd. www.cricketarenacharlotte.com.

Saturday, October 11

Carolina Renaissance Festival
Travel back centuries and enjoy outdoor theater, circus entertainment, an arts and crafts marketplace, a jousting tournament, and a feast fit for royalty. This annual festival runs for consecutive weekends October 4-November 16. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. 16445 Poplar Tent Rd., Huntersville (go to website for directions instead of using Mapquest or Google Maps). www.royalfaires.com/carolina.

The Ciao, Italia! Festival
This annual one-day festival displays Italy's rich culture, traditions, arts, wine, and cuisine. The day features entertainment such as performances by the Opera Carolina Chorus, mandolin players, Italian singing sensation Franco Corso from San Remo, Italy, and the International Pizza Toss Champion Siler Chapman. There will also be Italian language lessons, wine tasting, and a variety of children's activities. And, of course, there's the food. The Club's famous sausage and pepper sandwiches top the menu, along with eggplant parmigiana sandwiches, pasta, pizza, Italian ice, and an array of Italian pastries and cookies. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. $3. Wachovia Atrium, 301 S. Tryon St.

South End JazztoberFest
Enjoy an all-day free jazz concert featuring performances by The Timo Vollbrecht Band, John Alexander Group, Ziad Group, Uncommon Jazz, and Noel Freidline Group. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Free.
Atherton Mill Parking Lot, Tremont Avenue and South Boulevard. www.historicsouthend.com.

Bank of America 500
It's the fifth race in the 10-race Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Championship. Gates open 2 p.m., race starts 7:25 p.m. You'll want to get there early to catch all of the pre-race festivities, including a concert by Jessica Simpson. Visit website for ticket prices. Lowe's Motor Speedway, 5555 Concord Pkwy. South, Concord. www.lowesmotorspeedway.com.

SCarowinds
The Carolinas’ popular theme park is transformed into a place of fright for the Halloween season. 7 p.m.-12 a.m. $34 and up. Carowinds, 14523 Carowinds Blvd. www.scarowinds.com.

Fresh and Magnificent
Break out your '80s attire and enjoy '80s hip-hop, '80s dancing, and even '80s drinks. 9 p.m. $10. Ladies free before 10 p.m. Presented by Pink Diamond. Prevue, 2909 N. Davidson St. www.dothewop.com.

Sunday, October 12

Carolina Renaissance Festival
Travel back centuries and enjoy outdoor theater, circus entertainment, an arts and crafts marketplace, a jousting tournament, and a feast fit for royalty. This annual festival runs for consecutive weekends October 4-November 16. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. 16445 Poplar Tent Rd., Huntersville (go to website for directions instead of using Mapquest or Google Maps). www.royalfaires.com/carolina.

Latin American Festival
This annual one-day festival has grown so large that it's moved to a new venue this year. About 25,000 people are expected to come for a variety of entertainment, arts and crafts, food, and activities rooted in Latin American culture. The live music includes performances from Richmond's fusion salsa octet Bio Ritmo; Atlanta's 10-member Mariachis De Pepe Lopez; and Miami's multicultural Bachaco. 12-7 p.m. $5. Symphony Park at South Park, 4400 Sharon Rd. www.festivallatinoamericano.org.

An Evening with Eric Benet
Even though he broke Halle Berry’s heart, his music is still good. Presented by The Sol Kitchen. 8 p.m. $25 in advance. Neighborhood Theatre, 511 E. 36th St. www.thesolkitchen.com.

Wachovia Employees: Have a Drink

Things are still unfolding regarding who will buy or merge with Wachovia and a legal battle has ensued. If you work at the Charlotte-based bank, it has to be stressing you out, worrying about the future of your job. On CharlotteMagazine.com, I've listed the top-five bars for our fellow bankers to drink away their worries. Click here.

New York Times Article Captures Charlotte's Banking Culture

The New York Times is publishing an article in tomorrow's paper (available online today) titled "For Two Longtime Bank Rivals in Charlotte, Competition Turns to Concern." If you live here, the article likely doesn't offer much you didn't already know. But the writer did an excellent job of recapitulating what the culture has been like in Charlotte for the last several years as home to both Bank of America and Wachovia's headquarters, and tells our story on a world stage.

Here's an excerpt:

No sooner had construction begun in the late 1980s on the 42-story bank headquarters — the tallest building in North Carolina — than its biggest rival announced it would build a taller building right up the street.

If one bank gave $50,000 to the Chamber of Commerce, the other wrote a check for the same amount. When one built a performing arts center, the other built a museum. For decades here, it has been thus: the two banks, homegrown Wachovia and the larger Bank of America, gleefully one-upping each other, and Charlotte coming out the winner.

With Wachovia dominating the south end of Tryon Street, uptown’s main thoroughfare, and Bank of America dominating the north end, Charlotte became the nation’s second-largest banking center behind New York.

But last week, as Wachovia, which employs 20,000 people here, became the latest financial institution to succumb to the credit crisis, the long spirit of competition between the two banks swiftly turned to concern.

Click here for the full article.

Don't Believe Email About Voting

There's an email going around that says you shouldn't wear pro-Obama apparel--T-shirts, hats, buttons, etc.--when you go to vote because you'll be turned around. I've received the email a couple of times, forwarded from friends, and I'm sure many people believe it. It has that conspiracy-theorist/the-man's-trying-to-keep-us-down feel to it.

Fortunately, WCNC looked into the topic and aired this story.

Trying to Keep Up With the News

The Charlotte Observer has been on top of the news surrounding Wachovia this week. And there has been a lot of news. The Charlotte-based bank has the financial world buzzing again today after announcing that it would be backing out of its planned sale to Citigroup (which it just announced Monday) and instead would be merging with Wells Fargo. There's still a lot of uncertainty surrounding the deal and analysts still speculate that thousands of Wachovia jobs, particularly in Charlotte, will be lost. Plus, Citigroup has just issued a statement opposing the Wachovia/Wells Fargo deal saying Wachovia has violated its agreement with Citigroup. This will definitely be a developing story.

The Observer has posted breaking news and updates on its website all day, all week, and gone even more in-depth in the print edition each day. Yes, it is true that more and more people are getting their news from the web. I read CharlotteObserver.com at least three times a day. But as a journalist (I have a journalism degree; I'm not just a blogger.) and news junkie, I hope that people realize that no matter how or where you get your news, true journalism can't be replaced. You won't get in-depth reporting from YouTube, The Daily Show, or sound bites. We need print journalism, even if it's printed on the web.

Now where the newspaper becomes problematic and appears archaic is when breaking news happens overnight, after the print edition has been sent to press. Today's printed edition of The Charlotte Observer mentions nothing of Wachovia's merger with Wells Fargo, but instead continues to report on the rippled effects of the sale to Citigroup. But the Observer did the best it could and began updating stories online this morning. The first one I read was posted at 7:31 a.m. and they've updated it seemingly every hour.

The story in the top right column of today's paper, "Wachovia: What will remain?" quickly became old news.

Because fewer people are reading the print edition, which means fewer are subscribing to it, and fewer businesses are advertising in it, revenue is down increasingly at the Observer and newspapers around the country. A couple of my friends and members of my black journalists organization have lost their jobs over the last few months because of layoffs at the Observer. And just this week, the parent company of Creative Loafing filed for bankruptcy (we don't yet know how CL Charlotte will be affected), while last week the local Rhinoceros Times folded its print operations, laid off workers, and will be publishing solely on the web.

I hope we find a way to save newspapers because they really are needed. Even though more people are turning to the web, it's not the same. A lot of us are just skimming stories online because the advent of technology and personal devices (laptops, BlackBerrys, cell phones) is giving us short attention spans. But we need to be going deeper than the headlines and soundbites. If you do, you'll realize there's more to the story.

Jeff Gordon Shows Off New Colors

This morning on the Today Show, Jeff Gordon unveiled the new paint scheme for his No. 24 Dupont Chevrolet. He'll be driving it for the 2009 season and it's only the third time in 16 years he's changed his paint scheme. It's a pretty major change--he added black and ditched the blue and now the car looks a little more badass. He'll need a new nickname now, though, because Rainbow Warrior doesn't quite fit anymore. Plus, the sound of Rainbow Warrior was never very intimidating. Speaking of, I bet some fans of the late Dale Earnhardt are going to say that Gordon's trying to be more like The Intimidator (black Chevy No. 3).



Gordon, like many NASCAR drivers, lives in Charlotte. When I attended Hendrick Motorsports' Media Day at the start of the season, one of the reporters asked him about the new house he's building here. He already has a mansion on Lake Norman. Plus, a hot wife. All NASCAR drivers have hot wives. It's like it's a rule or something. (Man Law?) I guess they really love trophies.

His teammate, Jimmie Johnson, can currently be seen on Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel on HBO for about two more weeks (each episode runs for a month). The segment on Johnson was taped in Charlotte at his home and at Lowe's Motor Speedway.

Gordon and Johnson are a lot alike. Both aren't like your typical drivers. They're more metropolitan than mechanic. But Johnson has been the better driver over the last three years. With his win last weekend, he moved to the top spot in the Chase, trying to make it three consecutive championships. Gordon is currently sixth; but his wife is hotter.

September Madness

I received this in an email this morning (think March Madness). I'm pulling for the home team, Bank of America.

Click to enlarge.

Bobcats In Training

The Charlotte Bobcats kicked off training camp Monday in Wilmington. See video below of head coach Larry Brown and players Raymond Felton and Jason Richardson discussing the state of the team.