Uptown Magazine February 2009

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photos © iStockphoto.com/Yuri_Arcurs

One One thing thing that that hasn't hasn't changed changed is is our our dedication dedication

WE WILL HELP YOU EVEN IF UNCLE SAM DIDN’T

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Uptown Magazine’s FOURTH annual aPRIL real estate guide will help you sell your properties

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CALL TODAY 704.944.0551 1/27/2009 9:29:59 AM

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Element at Craig Avenue Where modern architecture breaks away from condo living Charlotte’s premier single family green community – 36 “eco” features in each home Standard features include 13’ to 19’ ceilings, outdoor living with fireplaces and covered parking Upgrade specials with purchase contract by March 1, 2009 Solar panel options available Special financing available on lots 4 and 5 Only 4 units remaining Learn more from our agent today

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Office 704.375.3408 4547 Craig Ave. Charlotte, NC 28211 www.uptownclt.com

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Enjoy South Park Living! Townhomes From The $180’s.

Tour 6 decoraTed model homes, open daily! • 1,747 to 4,500 square feet • 1 or 2 car attached garage • 2 to 5 bedrooms and 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 baths with owner’s bedroom up or down • Bonus room, loft & rec rooms available •Gated entrance with clubhouse, fitness center & Jr. olympic pool •1 mile from south park mall and lynx light rail station

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Prices and offers subject to change without notice. See a sales representative for details.

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pictures: fenix fotography

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l to r: kelsey richards, jill bainbridge, allison burgess ryan and ashley clark

One recent Friday evening, high above the gleaming city, at Bentley’s on 27th, the Charlotte Trolley association broke out the black ties and formal wear to enjoy their fifth Annual Gala. This historical society had plenty to celebrate with the completion of the base construction phase of the Charlotte Trolley Powerhouse Museum, on Camden Road. The event was more than just an excellent opportunity for the members and guests to dress up in their finest -- all auction and ticket proceeds benefit Charlotte Trolley’s education programs, which help bring Charlotte’s rich history to life in local schools.

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T e o o n st th a g a U

l to r: dave brown, meg nealon, jen and sean fergeson

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l to r: keith parker, olaf kinard

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Why now is the time to make your move uptown.

At Centro CityWorks, we’re proud to say that we have led Uptown Charlotte’s residential renaissance, from Gateway Lofts to 10th Street Towns to Trademark. After all, our company was born here. Our offices are right here in the center of the city, near the corner of Trade and Tryon. We love Uptown. And, we’re committed to helping fulfill the vibrant urban vision that’s well on its way to transforming our city’s landscape.

Prices at Quarterside begin in the $140,000s. We invite you to contact us. Come talk with us. And let us show you why right now is perhaps the best time ever to make your move Uptown.

That’s why we’re especially proud to offer Quarterside,, our newest exciting neighborhood village – strategically located in the First Ward and adjacent to all the great entertainment and amenities that Uptown has to offer. Quarterside is more than a terrific new community. It’s our way of showing our unbridled confidence in a remarkable city.*

NO ONE BRINGS YOU THE CITY LIKE CENTRO.

We know there’s a lot more growth to come.

704.999.0887. www.uptownclt.comcentrocityworks.com 9 uptown *Did you know that over 3,000,000 square feet of office space is currently being built to address the tightest vacancy rates in the country? We kid you not.

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Nova’s Bakery A gift from Nova’s Bakery is the perfect way to say “I love you!”

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Matt Kokenes Uptown Magazine 704.340.8170 [email protected]

Urban Pet We have everything you need for your new pet! Also check out our 50% off section for great gifts and supplies. Urban Pet 4149 Park Road Park Road Shopping Center 704.644.7019 urbanpetcharlotte.com

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* North Carolina native Ryan Sumner is Creative Director of Fenix Fotography. Though Sumner’s been shooting in the Queen City professionally for years, he spent nearly a decade as a designer at the Levine Museum until he set up his studio last year in NoDa’s historic Highland Mill. This month Ryan’s work appears throughout the magazine.

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Charlotte native Matt Kokenes is no stranger to the media-sales business in the Queen City. He has been selling both print and television for almost seven years. Matt, through perseverance and intestinal fortitude has shown he has the toughness to succeed in this business and has recently been promoted to Ad Director for the magazine. Shake Matt’s hand if you see him, he deserves it.

Celina Marann Mincey is an emerging artist in many forms. She is the editor of Central Speak, a community magazine. As a singer/songwriter, she is beginning to perform locally while completing an album in the studio. Capturing people with a lens as well as with words, Celina is a freelance photographer and dabbles in oil painting. This month Celina opens the door to club CBGB with Mitchell Kearney.

name: Little Shiva species: mutant here for: the smell of ink on paper interests: juxtaposition, transformation, mystery, clarity, the process of becoming, images, and design contributions to this issue: table of contents website: littleshiva.com

Bryan Reed is a man of simple interests— among them, words, records, movies and adjusting to life as a grown-up (whatever that means). Since graduating from UNCChapel Hill’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication, Bryan’s been living the dream, working as the assistant editor of Charlotte-based music magazine Shuffle, and freelancing for several publications including Tiny Mix Tapes and several weekly newspapers across the Carolinas.

Sheri Joseph is a true Uptown mama. If she isn’t chasing after her two young sons, Sheri is writing for our blog, working on her first book, volunteering, or hanging out with her husband, MJ. She is originally from Texas and knows the best Texas ribs and margaritas in town can be found at her house. When she’s not scouring the city for her next article she can be found at home eating bonbons with her children locked in a closet.

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COMPLETE COMPASSIONATE WOMEN’S CARE Here in Your Neighborhood

At Randolph OB/GYN, we provide compassionate, comprehensive healthcare for all ages – adolescence to menopause. We offer a variety of gynecological and obstetrical services, including exams, screenings, infertility medicine, routine and high-risk pregnancy care and minimally invasive surgery. Beyond your own personal physician, you’ll also benefit from the varied specialties of our entire team.

Whitney Ferrall smiled at birth (so swear her parents), colored on her purple bedroom wall at age four, took second place in the schoolwide spelling bee at nine, spent her first summer in New York at 11, fell in love with an architect’s son at 15, got lost in Amsterdam at 17 (and again at 22), wrote about squash at 26, and became a mother twice-over at 28.

Freelance writer Andy Graves spent his childhood and teenage years on a small, muddy dairy farm in upstate New York. He came by higher education in Helsinki, Finland; Baltimore, Maryland; Cork, Ireland; and Buffalo, New York. When pressed about what he does for a living, he will explain that he is a hobo. This is not as much a lie as he would have you believe. Feel free to ply him with wine.

Born and raised in a small Connecticut town, Erica A de Flamand migrated south looking for warmer weather. A graphic designer by degree and do-gooder at heart, she spends equal time “creating” and working with special needs children in the world of equine therapy. She always has a camera and a dog by her side, and is known to drink too much coffee.

Patients of Randolph OB/GYN experience a remarkable level of attention, devotion and care. Our experienced physicians take the time to develop a close relationship with the women who entrust us with their care. Our highest priority is our patients and the quality of care they receive.

Experience remarkable women’s care. Charlotte • 704-333-4104 2711 Randolph Road, Suite 512 Cornelius • 704-895-7224 18515 Statesville Road, Suite C-6 www.RandolphOBGYN.com

Our Physicians (Standing L-R, Seated L-R) John McNamara, Phillip Harston, John Culp, David McAllister, Janice Naumann, Philip Jones,Tracy Mann Larson.

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* Erin Kasari is the creator and editor of TheLuckyLoop.com; an online directory that promotes and supports Charlotte’s independent, locally owned businesses and non-profit organizations. She’s an avid freelance writer and shopping diva – always on the lookout for great gifts at dime-store prices. Erin has made Charlotte her home for the last eight years and, when not musing on Japanese minimalism, she enjoys being the center of attention of her husband and two dogs. 16

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Chris Wooten is a designer, artist, builder of tree houses, father, and avid traveler who is known for a neurotically meticulous attention to detail. Since the 1990s, Chris has been designing print and interactive solutions with zeal! Modry Design Studio was born after he hooked up with his partner in 2003. For now the company is firmly rooted in NoDa. If you want to talk design, stop by their studio or find them them online at ModryDesignStudio. com

Originally from Atlanta, Joey has made Charlotte his home for six years now. His ‘hood roots and current Uptown lifestyle allow him to relate to just about everyone As fashion editor of Uptown Joey gets to combine all of this into one fun package and each month he strives to bring you something fresh, fun, and inspiring. You can find Joey and his constant companion, Bamboo, at J Studio in South End.

Writer and Editor David A. Moore has more than 15 years of journalism experience. In addition to his work with “Elmwood Park” for Uptown, Moore has written for Atlanta Magazine and Creative Loafing, to name a few. He’s interviewed such personalities as John Travolta and Melissa Etheridge among many others. In years past, he’s worked as an editor for such publications as Jezebel, Q-Notes and Southern Voice.

All the things Zoë Balsamo is, organized, fashionable and on time, are all the things our editor is not. That’s why as the Director of Sales she has made such a positive impact in such a short period of time. Zoë has made Plaza-Midwood her home and her new husband Sal has made an honest woman out of her. If you’re lucky enough to get a call or visit from Zoë, make sure you make the meeting---you’ll be glad you did.

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Letter from the editor Editor/Publisher Todd Trimakas Advertising Matt Kokenes 704.944.0551 Contributing Editors Joey Hewell (Fashion) Peter Reinhart (Food)

Life is an amazing miracle of unimaginable perfection and luck. Here’s why. Your dad in his lifetime produces some 525 billion swimmers -- yes: sperm. And your mom? Roughly two million follicles, although only about 450 eggs make it to fruition. Then, once the constituent parts have landed in the country where inspiration, innovation, and perspiration meet, there’s about a one in 194 chance of making it there. So quick calculations, the odds of you being here to read this written word look something like this: 1 in 2,037,000,000,000,000,000. Those odds are so great they’re unimaginable,

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hell unpronounceable. By comparison, winning the recent Powerball, with odds at a mere 195 million to 1, might as well be the odds of water hitting you when you turn on the shower. Pulled like weeds from our mother’s body, we come kicking and screaming into this world where we slowly learn to feed ourselves, poop in the potty, dress appropriately, and, somewhat later, supposedly figure out what a dangling participle might be. But somewhere along the way I think we lose the sense of the miraculous good fortune that we are here at all, that we can think, that we can see, that we can walk over to the copy machine to pick up the latest email from Bob in accounting. Personally I’d like to blame NBC’s Ann Curry for this but that’s my personal bias. But I digress. We are HERE, taking one more breath, catching the muted rays of the winter sun, blinking your eyes one more time, and maybe enjoying one more bite of heaven in a fried pickle from the Penguin. It’ll be all right, sure we might be in a recession/depression/whatever, but the odds we’ve all already overcome are so astronomical as to be unthinkable. Nice to think about now and again. ~Todd Trimakas Editor [email protected]

Executive Editor Andy Graves Contributors Sheri Joseph Celina Mincey David Moore Little Shiva Chris Wooten Bryan Reed Whitney Ferrall Erin Kasari Photography Ryan Sumner Todd Trimakas Jim McGuire Distribution Sean Chesney Office 1600 Fulton Ave., #140 Charlotte, NC 28205 Contact us at [email protected] Uptown Magazine is a trademark of Uptown Publishing inc., copyright 2008. All rights reserved. Uptown is printed monthly and subscriptions are $25 annually and can be purchased online at uptownclt.com.

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love

words: sheri joseph pictures: fenix fotography

My friend, Shelly, is a divorced mother of two. She’s attractive, smart, and successful in her career, and has a great sense of humor. She goes to Cub Scouts, not “da club.” Her life is centered on her kids, career, and keeping her sanity. She’s not on the prowl, but she’d like a reason to go to a decent restaurant now and then. Enter online dating. “I’m scared to do it,” she admitted the other day. Shelly has the same fears as other potential online daters: she’ll look like a loser, everyone online is a freak, and there is no way she’ll possibly find the right man online. But times have changed. Approximately one in eight newly married couples were introduced via some kind of online dating site. Since it’s always nice to get the nitty gritty info from a gal pal, I enlisted two friends who have experience with two of the most popular online dating sites.

the life

Profile: Liza, a 36 year old who works in advertising, has been online dating for a couple of years and had the most success with Match. com, but has also tried eHarmony.com. She likes Match better because you can see all the potential suitors (and your competition), whereas with eHarmony you view people whose profiles fit with yours. Liza had a long term relationship through Match and although it didn’t work out -- “It’s not Match’s fault I found Dick in bed with another girl” -- she’s ready to try again. After a year of licking her wounds, she’s back to the screen and has a few tips for the guys and the girls. Amanda, 28 and a successful realtor, found her husband, Kirk, on Match.com. Amanda never thought she would meet the man of her dreams online, but she tried it as a way to get herself back out there after a breakup. uptown: What do you say to someone who wants to know why people date online instead of finding people on their own? Liza: I work in an office with mainly women, and I felt like I could search and get a lot of specific information about guys online as opposed to waiting for friends to set me up. I don’t go to bars and I don’t meet many single guys through my social life, so online dating is a great way to meet people. Amanda: I wasn’t into going to clubs or meeting guys in bars and this was a way for me to find someone who wasn’t necessarily going to be someone I knew in my social circle. What’s funny is that my husband and I knew a lot of

the same people and we even went to some of the same restaurants and hangouts, but I had never met him until we met on Match.com. uptown: What would you say to my friend, Shelly, who thinks there’s a stigma to dating online? Liza: I think dating online enables you to expand your horizons about who you thought you might date. This isn’t the only route to love, but it’s a way to get out there if you aren’t already. Online dating is like the gay cousin: everyone has one or knows someone who does -- there’s no shame in it. Amanda: I was a little apprehensive telling people I was dating online, but soon discovered that when I would, the person would always want to know more about it and would say he or she was on it or knew someone who was. uptown: What is the most positive aspect of trying online sites? Liza: It enables you to meet people you might not run into in your regular routine Amanda: It is a great confidence booster and if it’s been awhile since you dated, it helps you hone the conversational skills you might have lost. After a couple of dates, you get better at it.

Tips for Online Newbies: To the Girls: u Safety first. Meet in public and give friends the email address and phone number of the guy. This is “So Elliot Stabler of Law and Order SVU will have an easier time finding your captor,” says Liza. u Get an honest friend to check your profile for such things as bitterness toward your ex, needy behaviors, or overkill expressions of love for your cats. u Be honest. It sounds easy, but isn’t. “I originally put in my profile that I hiked as a hobby. I had a friend look at it and ask ‘When was the last time you went hiking?’ I took it off because that was who I wanted to be, but not who I really was,” says Amanda. u Don’t go on and on about the importance of “chemistry” in your profile. You’ll know it if you have it. Check out the guy’s profiles, they don’t write novels about themselves and they won’t read yours.

To the Guys: u Your profile pic says a lot about you. No tank tops, gold chains, backwards visors (idiot), sunglasses (what are you hiding?), leaning against an expensive car (not impressive), staring lovingly into the eyes of a baby that isn’t yours (comes off as needy), or shirtless in your den (ick). u Think twice before you click that you are a “cigar aficionado” or that you read Guns & Ammo or, for that matter, The Da Vinci Code. What does this say about you? u Be honest. Don’t lie about your age, say you like to cuddle, talk about your feelings, workout, or want kids if actually you don’t. u If there is more than one date with a girl, show her you read her profile and plan a date around something she said she liked, “My husband read in my profile that I liked to go to concerts and planned a date at ‘Pops in the Park.’ It was a thoughtful thing. He was really paying attention,” says Amanda. U

You can reach Sheri at [email protected] For more info go to www.uptownclt.com 20

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art

words: sheri joseph

the life

I like art. It makes the world a more interesting place--especially when it’s a part of everyday life. Uptown Charlotte is filled with public art, both in and in between the towers of town. The Public Art Walking Tour is a little known free download sponsored by the Arts & Science

Council available at www.artsandscience.org. The tour takes walkers through public buildings and, best of all, , explains what all that artwork we see each day represents! I was accompanied by a good friend, Bitsy, and my first-grade son, Ian, on a chilly Sunday afternoon. I figured she could use the outing and he could ditch the Nintendo DS for some culture and the promised ice cream afterward. This particular tour begins at East Trade Street and ends at the Charlotte Transportation Center “Gold Rush” Red Line to Gateway Village. It’s a shorter version than some of the more comprehensive public art tours offered through local companies and the Arts & Science Council, but when you’ve got a seven-year-old in tow, it helps to shorten the trip. 1. We start by parking at Reid’s because it’s where I always park and I’m a creature of habit. Bitsy complains this isn’t where the tour starts and I tell her that if she wants to figure out parking in Uptown, be my guest. Bitsy stops complaining. I say we can start the tour in the middle (7th Street Station’s “Touch My Building” is on the tour), but Bitsy says we need to stick to what is written to maintain the integrity of the tour. Bitsy says, “Aren’t you glad I came along?” I respond enthusiastically. We walk toward the Carillon building and see that Uptown’s usually quiet Sunday morning streets are filled with shouting, cops, and TV cameras. It’s a group of Israeli and Palestinian protesters shouting from both

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sides of Trade Street. My son wants to know what’s going on and I get him to read the signs both sides are holding up. Bitsy and I clumsily try to explain to a first grader the Israeli/Palestinian conflict by invoking what little historical knowledge we can piece together--eventually coming up with the hopeful mantra of “I think both sides want peace.” We cross over to the Carillon Building and look at Jean Tinguely’s Cascade, Sol LeWitt’s Wall Drawing and back outdoors to Jerry Peart’s The Garden. Cascade is easily a favorite for Ian because it was created with found objects familiar to a child and is in constant motion. We spend several minutes playing a good game of “I spy” before moving on. 2. Back to the corner of Trade and Tryon where the protestors have dispersed and the police are driving away. We stop to look at the Sculptures on the Square: Commerce, Industry, Transportation, and The Future by Raymond Kaskey. The tour has a write up about the details of each sculpture and how they relate to the Charlotte region. Ian gets stumped when we get to the “Commerce” piece since it mentions the U.S. Mint. He thinks all mints are edible---I have work to do. 3. Il Grande Disco, by Arnaldo Pomodoro, is next. I’ve always been perplexed by the meaning behind this huge bronze piece, but we were helped by the description: The center of the giant “cog” resembles a relief map of a city. We explained this to Ian by asking him where Spiderman would jump and he was able to pick out the overhead outlines of tall buildings. Thank you, comic books. 4. Next stop was the Castellan Figure and Light Towers (created by the ancient method of sand casting) by Howard Ben Tre at Hearst Plaza. We stop at the Castellan Figure which is a fountain lit from within. Ian knows this one well. It’s where on a hot summer day his little brother took his pants off and danced naked in the fountain. A police officer showed up.... 5. Ben Long Frescoes: Making/building, chaos/creativity, planning/ knowledge in the Bank of America Corporate Center. The best place to sit and view these is in the seating booths against the windows, but if you bring children, be prepared for a lively game of hopping from one leather ottoman to another. The frescoes are incredible, especially when you consider the arduous process of creating them, but Bitsy and I were touched by the figure asleep on the hill in the first panel “which may represent unlocked potential.” In these times, how can you not hope it will be awakened?

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1/26/2009 12:50:06 PM

Metropolitan Kitchen & Bath

is located within Metropolitan Design on South in the Historic South End.

Call for an appointment today.

704.334.2002 1719 South Blvd., Suite 1 Charlotte, NC 28203 [email protected] www.metropolitanbuilders.com

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art

words: sheri joseph

the life

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6. Christopher Janney, Touch My Building. Regardless of age, who hasn’t gone up to the panels and tapped them waiting to hear the laughter, bells, or chiming sounds coming from the 7th Street Station? 7. LYNX Blue Line: Shaun Cassidy’s 7th Street Station design of 40 metal leaves in the LYNX Blue Line Station fencing. The leaves are representations of tree species found in the area and “each vein pattern inside the lead is reconstructed into that area’s unique street map.” The leaf pattern appears throughout the line in fencing, columns, tiles, shelter windscreens, and in pavers. 8. Ned Kahn’s Wind Silos. The Parking deck this work of art covers used to be an eyesore for anyone entering uptown. This functional art screen’s curved silos sparkle in the wind and at night are lit up. 9. Bobcats Arena: Paul Sires’s Granite benches are carved from several types of mostly Carolina granite. The benches are detailed with slight trenches in the leaf’s curved design. Ian crawls on top of one and is almost cut by broken beer bottles shoved into the crevices. This public art thing can be tricky. 10. The Flying Shuttles by Andrew Leicester welcome entrants into the Bobcats Arena Plaza with three 50-foot-tall columns

that resemble sewing bobbins. Ian isn’t listening to my explanations any more. He’s distracted by the huge, mostly teenaged crowd waiting to get into a concert. 11. We move over to ImaginOn’s main entrance where Larry Kirkland’s The Writer’s Desk invites children of all ages to climb, jump, sit, and read the inspirational quotations from former Charlotte Observer publisher Rolfe Neill’s writings. We take turns spelling our names by skipping on the enormous typewriter keys. Our tour ends at the ice cream counter for a scoop of Blue Bell at Reid’s. We walk away from this tour with a new appreciation for the art all around us and a grateful feeling that we live in a city where it is valued and made available for everyone to enjoy---even cranky kids. U

You can reach Sheri at [email protected] For more info go to www. uptownclt.com

www.uptownclt.com

1/26/2009 12:50:17 PM

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words: bryan reed

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n 1968 George A. Romero gave life to the undead. With “Night of the Living Dead,” shot on a shoestring budget near his hometown of Pittsburgh, Romero created an instant cult classic, spawned countless imitators and remakes, and changed the face of American horror cinema forever. Then he did it again ten years later with the critical classic “Dawn of the Dead,” which continued “Night”’s bleak vision and unflinching treatment of Romero’s zombie apocalypse. His films became known for their sharp social commentary and thematic nuance. He became a legend. His most recent movie, “Diary of the Dead,” was released in 2007. And now, 40 years after an invite-only audience in Pittsburgh greeted the premiere of “Night of the Living Dead” with a standing ovation, George A. Romero comes to Charlotte.

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explains Fishman. So the festival was postponed. “Originally we were sort of playing on the whole Halloween thing, but in a sense this is sort of a standalone event, so it removed it from that Halloween kitsch factor. Because his work is beyond horror. His work is all about social commentary. That’s why he’s more relevant than just a straight slasher flick,” says Fishman. Fittingly, the event kicks off with a screening of the film that started it all, “Night of the Living Dead”—which addresses issues related to Vietnam and race relations of the late-’60s—on Friday, left: romero with his werewolf below: surrounded by his fans

“A

merican Zombie: George A. Romero’s Film Revolution,” a three-day, six-film retrospective of Romero’s body of work curated and presented by The Light Factory and Reel Soul Cinema, will bring the storied writer/director Uptown for a multipart speaking engagement in celebration of his legacy and cinematic influence. What began at the Light Factory—the photographers’ cooperative founded in 1972 which expanded to include film exhibitions and workshops in 2000—as a featured artist program called “Project Love Light” has since evolved to today’s filmmaker retrospective. Last year’s event featured acclaimed AfricanAmerican filmmaker Charles Burnett. The Light Factory’s Director of Film and Video Programs, Wendy Fishman, explains, “It’s important to pick someone who’s important critically, and in some ways, often not popularly known. It’s not as if Steven Spielberg, (a.) needs us, or (b.) needs additional attention. But there are

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plenty of filmmakers out there who have nice, good bodies of work who need to be acknowledged.” She continues, “Romero’s an interesting one because he’s strictly in the horror genre. It’s not like he has a broad work that encompasses dramatic narratives or documentary. That’s his thing. So, he’s unusual in that respect.” Initially, the festival was scheduled for late September—a sort of unofficial Halloween kickoff—but mere weeks before the event was to start, Fishman received a phone call from Romero’s management. He’d been greenlighted to begin work on his as-yet-untitled sixth “Dead” movie. “You just don’t get to escape for three days to go out of town and do a film retrospective,”

Feb. 20 at McGlohon Theatre. But aside from the aforementioned “Night,” only two of Romero’s five “Dead” films—“Dawn of the Dead,” a satire on consumer culture, and “Diary of the Dead,” Romero’s meta-movie that explores the ambiguity of truth in an oversaturated media environment—will be shown. Three of Romero’s lesser-known works fill out the festival’s schedule. The Light Factory’s Director of Marketing, Dee Grano, explains, “In trying to expose his work to a greater audience, we’re showing not just the stuff that everybody knows, but the stuff that people don’t know.” “Season of the Witch,” Romero’s second film, originally released in 1972 and also known as “Hungry Wives,” focuses on a housewife

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dabbling in the occult. It is scheduled for a noon showing on Saturday, Feb. 21, at McGlohon. Immediately after “Season of the Witch,” “Martin,” the 1977 film about a teenage vampire, starts at 2 p.m. And on Sunday, Feb. 22, 1973’s “The Crazies,” a military parable about weapons of mass destruction and how the government might respond to the threat, will be screened at the newly opened Epicentre Theaters Uptown. The use of the Epicentre was another bonus, thanks to the rescheduling. It was originally the organizers’ first-choice venue—it centers the festival in Uptown and, Grano adds, “It’s new. It’s got cachet”— but when it wasn’t yet completed in September, the festival made plans to use the Ballantyne Village Theaters. Postponement brought the festival back to Center City. And that’s not the only venue change caused by the festival’s change in plans. The centerpiece event, dubbed “Midnight Dread,” a costume contest/dance party followed by a midnight screening of “Diary” was moved from The Neighborhood Theatre in NoDa to the larger Amos’ Southend. Live music will be provided by Charlotte rock band DRAT and the Asheville-based act Hellblinki, which blends indie rock with cabaret theatrics. “It really struck me as so interesting and unique, and quirky in a way,” Fishman says of Hellblinki. But the focus remains on Romero, who will be giving question-andanswer sessions with each of the six films screened, plus an autograph signing at the comic book store Heroes Aren’t Hard To Find and a special seminar session on Sunday, Feb. 22 at the Epicentre. And perhaps removing the event from any Halloween brouhaha is even more apt for hosting the horror director whose films often subvert genre stereotypes and bring a level of artistic legitimacy to the genre not found in your typical schlock-fest. “People associate zombies and horror 30

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American Zombie: George A. Romero’s Film Revolution Friday, February 20 - 3p.m.-5p.m. Special Signing Appearance with George A. Romero Heroes Aren’t Hard to Find, 1957 E. 7th St. 7 p.m. Opening Night Celebration Screening: “Night of the Living Dead” McGlohon Theatre, Spirit Square, 345 N. College St. Tickets: $20 in advance | $25 at the door Q&A following film with director George A. Romero Saturday, February 21st - Noon Film Screening: “Season of the Witch” McGlohon Theatre, Spirit Square, Tickets: $10 in advance | $15 at the door Q&A following film with special guest, director George A. Romero 2 p.m. Film Screening: “Martin” McGlohon Theatre, Spirit Square, Tickets: $10 in advance | $15 at the door Featuring special guest, director George A. Romero 9 p.m. Midnight Dread Zombie Party Midnight screening of “Diary of the Dead” Tickets: $20 in advance | $25 at the door Features Asheville band Hellblinki, Charlotte’s DRAT, costume contest and a midnight screening of George A. Romero’s latest film, “Diary of the Dead.” Sunday, February 22nd Noon Seminar: “One-on-One” with George A. Romero EpiCentre Theaters, 210 East Trade St. Tickets: $35 in advance | $40 at the door 2 p.m. Film Screening: “Dawn of the Dead” EpiCentre Theaters, 210 East Trade St. Tickets: $8 in advance | $10 at the door Featuring director George A. Romero 4 p.m. Film Screening: “The Crazies” EpiCentre Theaters, 210 East Trade St. Tickets: $8 in advance | $10 at the door Tickets and information are available at zombiestakecharlotte.com

with mindless—no pun intended—mindless and gory entertainment,” says Fishman. “The point is to show that Romero is much more than that.” She adds, “He makes it really clear that he has deeper points than just chasing people down and having zombies chew on their faces.” While Romero has never shied away from the blood and guts—he claims inspiration from the pulp horror stories of E.C. Comics—his movies have always used violence more as a means to an end than as an end in and of itself. He’s never been a filmmaker to compromise his vision. His tenacity makes him important. It also keeps him on the fringes of the industry. “He is still considered an independent filmmaker,” says Fishman. “He doesn’t often go through the studio pipeline. He’s never been signed that way. And I think he and his producers work making deals happen when they happen. So whenever the financing would come down the pipeline, that’s when they’d jump on it.” That explains his long periods of inactivity--the ‘90s were particularly slow for Romero--as well as it does his flurries of productivity--two “Dead” films in three years is unprecedented). There’s no question that Romero is a worthy honoree. And the fans are expected to turn out for the director’s first-ever visit to the Carolinas. Grano mentions one woman in particular who has pre-ordered tickets to bring her whole family to the festival—from Alaska. “We’re expecting people to probably come in the thousands,” Grano says. “We do anticipate several of the screenings to probably sell out.” With fans flocking to the event from all over the region—and the farthest reaches of the country--the significance takes a measurable shape. George A. Romero is a big deal, and he’s coming to Charlotte. “American Zombie” doesn’t just honor Romero’s contributions to the art of cinema, it honors the host city, acknowledging that Charlotte can indeed support large-scale productions of offbeat culture as well as any other metropolitan city. U You can reach Bryan at [email protected] For more info go to www.uptownclt.com

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Pop imagery dots the city, from Fuel Pizza’s quintessential American filling station logo to the dry-cleaning stickers left in the window of Zada Jane’s. Formal projects include the wrapped silos in South End and a mural project along the Central Avenue international corridor, both sponsored by the Arts & Science Council. I’m guessing that by now you’ve heard Warhol is in town, and maybe you’ve skimmed a coffee table flipper or two on the subject, but don’t stop there. Pop isn’t relegated to gallery walls and history books; the spirit of the midcentury movement is alive throughout the Queen City.

www.uptownclt.com uptown words: whitney ferrall

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o fully appreciate this spirit, make sure to check out the Mint Museum of Art, where the Prince of Pop himself is featured in two exhibitions, Andy Warhol Portfolios: Life & Legends (through February 15), and Andy Warhol: Cowboys & Indians (through May 9). As a central figure of the Pop Art movement, Warhol’s reach extends much farther than the ubiquitous posters of blue-lipped celebrities and larger-than-life soup cans, and the Mint does a good job of showcasing this. Let all of that Warholian grandeur soak in, then walk with fresh eyes into Hong Kong Vintage, Boris & Natasha, The Rat’s Nest, and The Common Market. These well-curated stores are filled with the color, pattern, humor, and vibrancy characteristic of the

Pop movement. “They are Pop Art,” says artist and educator Mike Watson. On a grand scale, he says, “Target is the best example of Pop sensibility.” Yes, Target, which perhaps not so coincidentally channels pre-Pop pioneer Jasper Johns with its logo. (Fun fact: Target sponsored an exhibition of Johns’s targets at the National Gallery in 2007.) All arts-funding ethics aside, the major retailer knows how to merchandise. “They have plates, clocks, towels—things you can’t get anywhere else for cheaper in the latest fun colors. They do a fabulous job of understanding the latest trends among the masses. People go in for shampoo and leave with a hundred dollars’ worth of things. Designers are there for limited engagements, and like Pop screenprints, their merchandise is mass produced but only available for a limited time. People miss it because it’s so embedded in society that they forget it’s art,” concludes Watson. “That’s the reason behind Warhol’s multiples—a call to sit up and notice, look at the details and don’t let them lose significance.” If you hurry, you can see this concept in action in Warhol’s Flowers, Grapes, Muhammad Ali, and Sunset series, all part of the soon-to-close Life & Legends exhibit. Mike discusses the impact of seeing

Warhol’s work on a large scale, with pieces in a series displayed together. “When you see Pop Art in that space that it’s meant to be shown, like at the Mint, those common images take on new meaning.” Regardless of his subject, “Warhol had the ability to capture the moment in time that was memorable—that’s what Warhol’s genius was about,” says Watson. In addition, Warhol “was creating for the future, versus creating for the past, so his work still has a lot of life to it.” :: A LITTLE ART HISTORY In turns glorifying and condemning the consumerism of the post World War II era, Pop crashed the velvet rope separating high art from popular culture. Early artists in the movement sought to harness images in popular culture and use them in the creation of new works, characterized by bold graphics, powerful color, and techniques such as screenprinting and Benday dots. Decades later, artists continue to embrace this concept, and examples of Pop Art—and its splinters—abound in Charlotte. Although the movement’s official heyday ended decades ago, many contemporary artists have built on the shoulders of Pop giants, whose ideas are now “folded into the greater art making consciousness,” says artist Dan Allegrucci, whose vivid woodcuts can be found at Lark

right: boris and natasha

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& Key. He continues, “Today we live in a world that is more saturated with imagery than ever. A person doesn’t consciously choose to be bombarded with thousands of images, sound bites, jingles—it’s just the world we live in. Pop Art said to me that it is okay to take all that and do something with it. It sort of updated art as a tool one could use to make sense of the media saturated world we were moving into.” Allegrucci isn’t alone in this sentiment. Artist Hooper Turner, who was born in Charlotte and is now based in New York,

muses that Pop artists realized that the mundane, the serial, and the indexical could generate work that reflected their time. Turner continues, “So many people fail to recognize my paintings’ connection to Pop, although to me that seems of primarily importance when viewing it. I think so many artists now certainly work from a pop sensibility, but perhaps allow for more sophisticated or pointed practices. My work is basically an experiment with the meaning of materials, and I guess the allure of artificial images. I borrow techniques from the Old Masters as well as Warhol. I want to produce a conflicted desire in the viewer as they are attracted to the image, but repelled by the reality of its serial consumerism.” At first glance, many of Hooper’s fine oils resemble tear sheets from an oversized fine-goods catalog. Descriptive text and pricing accompanies objects such as birds by Oiva Toikka, or a leather carpetbag. Hooper’s work can be seen locally at the Joie Lassiter Gallery. :: TAKING IT TO THE STREETS Contemporary, Street, Public,

Lowbrow, Neo-Pop, Urban-Pop . . . What’s in a name? The label is a tad controversial, but major-leaguers like Bonhams auction house are using “Urban,” so I’ll go with that. Urban Artists, who typically focus their energy on public art, also transfer much of their work to canvas and board, enabling it to be shown in galleries as well. The Mint’s Life & Legends suite also includes a portfolio of four Andy Mouse screenprints by Keith Haring, the renowned Urban Artist of the 1980s who gained notoriety by creating hundreds of poignant chalk drawings in New York subway spaces. Aside from the streets, the best contemporary Urban Art is typically found in skate shops and streetwear boutiques like South End’s NICHE and Black Sheep. Between the two of them, you can find limited-edition screenprint posters, skateboards, bright and graphic Ts and shoes, and artist series vinyl toys. NICHE owner Bobby Webster explains the toy attraction for the uninitiated (like me): “Basically the phenomenon started in the East” (think Japan, not New York). “Artists would design 3D toys as a more tangible way for people to collect their art.” (Now I get it!) These toys are also more affordable than most comparable wall art, yet may also appreciate in value. “Now it’s becoming just as big here in the U.S. Kidrobot is the biggest art toy maker and seller of the

left: the rat’s nest

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moment. There are also artists like Frank Kozik who now just design toys.” Urban Art is a direct lineage of Pop, says Watson. Urban Art is marked by powerful color and graphics, use of graffiti, screenprinting, stenciling, and cultural commentary. Whether in terms of size or

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multiplicity, Urban Art is often created on a scale that can’t be ignored, which offers an enticing accessibility and immediacy that attracts admirers outside of the typical art scene. “It’s a Sixties sensibility, tweaked,” says Watson. “War, politics, suicide, celebrity, Hollywood icons you value more

than religion—all put in your face through art and forcing you to readdress what is important. Is this who we want to be? Is this what we choose to be as a nation?” Watson also calls our attention to street artist Shepard Fairey’s iconic image of Barack Obama, modeled after propaganda posters and depicted in the Pop style. The three-quarter view upshot creates an instant aura of power and worthiness of reverence. “In the most important election in history, what art movement was chosen for the campaign? Pop is so meaningful to who we are, and it reaches the masses, who are used to seeing iconic imagery, and so in their minds they interpret that this is meaningful.” Similarly styled representations of now-President Obama include those of God City artist Wolly Vinyl, with Your Choice, 08.1, and BAM! by Patrick Harris of Green Rice Gallery. Ben Gelnett (Smackhound) and Kevin Taylor (Radar) blinged out Obama in their outstanding screenprint collaboration for Kitschworth. In contrast to these figurative images, Kevin Hogan’s magnetic “After Barack,” shown at Center of the Earth, is more reminiscent of Lichtenstein and Rosenquist than Warhol, conveying optimism and energy with silkscreened Benday dots, and bright, graphic patterns. Perhaps the movement remains so resonant because today’s social and political climate is similar to that of the Sixties, suggests Watson. “We have a large young generation, a war that’s not understood and not supported by everyone, Capitalist and free-thinking camps are at odds.” :: LIGHTEN UP Not that Pop has to be serious to be significant. Dan Allegrucci appreciates that the movement—and particularly lesser known artists like Ed Paschke and the group The Hairy Who—showed us that art can be funny and still be art—that artists don’t have to take themselves so seriously. Yet another reason to hit the Mint now: though Cowboys and Indians also demonstrates the powerful color and graphic qualities of his earlier work, the suite is thematically heavier than Grapes, Still Lifes, left: ben gelnett’s and certain Myths obama such as Mickey

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Mouse, Santa Claus, and Superman. The nostalgic Myths made me smile (Plus, they have diamond dust! And Superman really looks like he’s flying!) And the irony behind Warhol’s wobbly “Still Lifes” (read the placard) made me chuckle aloud. In uncertain times, this lightness is especially welcome, says Hank Greenberg, of Coplon’s boutique, which offers ladies’ fine clothing. “The levity and high spirit of the Pop Art influence is just what the world needs. Its refreshing and downright fun!” Greenberg says, “Coplon’s has always had a weakness for Pop Art, representing Moschino and Jean-Charles de Castelbajac over the years, but the sophistication of the tic-tac-toe prints from Michael Kors and the slippery crosshatches of Marni are the apples of our eye at this moment. Their collections are most definitely influenced by Pop Art of Warhol and Hockney. But their translation is less literal and more subtle than their predecessors.” Since we’re all supposed to do a little shopping (but not too much!) to bolster the economy, consider adding one of these fun pieces to your wardrobe—those of you who do so and join in the Uptown lunch parade will also be doing your part to lighten the mood around Independence Square. If you’re just in the market for a touch of Pop whimsy, check out City Supply Company’s selection of Pop accessories. Selling old office supplies on eBay? Use the aptly named Pop Tape (I like the metal chains look) to pack your parcels with a little flair. Fighting to keep your foot in the door? Try a playful red pump evocative of Andy Warhol’s Shoes screenprints. Whaam! Bam! Pow! Aaargh! Need to mend your wounds? Ouch! Comic Strip Bandages make it all better. :: POP IS DEAD! LONG LIVE POP! Art is as much about how it makes us feel and think as what we see. Whether commanding gallery walls or tucked amongst the city streets, Pop has a way of imbuing the space with energy and life. Love it or hate it—most people seem to fall on one side or the other when it comes to Pop--the Pop movement was undeniably influential on American culture, and is at least worth recognition, if not appreciation. Soon the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art will join the Mint, Queen City galleries, and contemporary artists in keeping the spirit alive. Andy Warhol will be included in Bechtler’s collection, and Pop will officially be on permanent display. U You can reach Whitney at: [email protected] For more info go to www.uptownclt.com

NOW SHOWING IN

Andy Warhol, Muhammad Ali, 1978, in a series of four screenprints on Strathmore Bristol paper. © 2008 The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts/Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York. The name, image, and likeness of Muhammad Ali appears courtesy of Muhammad Ali Enterprises, LLC. Bank of America Collection. Andy Warhol, Flowers, 1970, in a series of ten screenprints on paper. © 2008 The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts/ Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York. Bank of America Collection. Keith Haring, Andy Mouse, 1986, one in a series of four screenprints. © 2008, Estate of Keith Haring. Bank of America Collection. www.uptownclt.com

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It’s 1975. Mitchell Kearney is on assignment for The Aquarian Weekly to photograph Joey Ramone. Upon arrival to his apartment, Joey pats his pockets and realizes he has no keys. He casually suggests they climb the steel grating on the front of the building to his second-story window. Kearney obliges, his camera bag strapped tight as he climbs, trying to find finger holds. He then topples in through the window. From his punk rock days in Manhattan to his commercial studio work in Charlotte, Kearney’s life is an adventure that continues to unfold. To tell his story, I got a little help from the Ramones themselves.

Mitchell Kearney www.uptownclt.com words: celinauptown mincey

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[Blitzkrieg Bop, Ramones, The Ramones, 1976] In December 1973, CBGB opened its doors on the Bowery, alongside flophouses and a host of derelict bars. Its founder, Hilly

Kristal, imagined owning his own club where his friends and other musicians could play Country, Bluegrass, and the Blues (CBGB). He quickly discovered it was hard to keep a nightly lineup going in this genre, so when three scruffy guys came around asking to play their “hot new sound,” he gave them a shot. The band Television played a Sunday, to a handful of people for a $1 admission. Kristal hated the performance, but saw the potential of being the only place in New York where the city’s basement rock bands could play in public. He added the tag OMFUG (Other Music For Uplifting Gormandizers) and the stipulation that only original music could be played, and the iconic institution was born. Patti Smith, The Talking Heads and Mink DeVille are among the groups that got their start at CBGB. In the midst of this rising craze, Mitchell Kearney was attending the prestigious School of Visual Arts. Though studying photography in a formal setting, Kearney was not immune to the new excitement down on the Bowery. He frequented the night scene, and snapped performance photos of whoever happened to be playing, including Joey Ramone and the Dead Boys, which he could sell to The Aquarian for $5 apiece.

If you think you can, well come on man 2.

[53 & 3rd, Ramones, The Ramones, 1976] During a guest lecture at SVA, venerable commercial photographer Jay Maisel, told Kearney’s class that only one in ten of the photography students in the room would actually be working in the field ten years later. Rather than be discouraged, left: joey ramone

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commercial photography studio. Shooting products for catalogue placement was sometimes tedious, but Kearney learned every aspect of commercial camera work, including studio lighting and set building. His day job provided him not just with bill money, but also with new expertise -- and an idea. Kearney knew there was plenty of energy to tap on the Bowery. He combined his interest in the punk music scene with his commercial technical skills and approached Trouser Press, a music magazine, with a fresh concept. Most magazines augmented their musical interviews with close-ups of lead singers taken with a flash on camera during a performance. Kearney proposed that he tag along on the interview itself, setting up a makeshift studio setting to create a portrait of the artists. During his five years with Trouser Press, he presented rising stars in a unique light. Kearney had opportunities such as private time with Lou Reed, William S. Burroughs, and Frank Zappa. Kearney recalls an interview Zappa once conducted “in the round,” for which Zappa seated himself in a circle with a group of journalists, condensing twelve interviews into one rapid-fire session. Zappa announced only two rules: First, no stupid questions or he skips you. Second, don’t ask a question somebody has already asked, or he skips you. Afterward, Zappa moved over to pose for Kearney’s photo shoot.

It’s a different world today and I just don’t 3.

Kearney “broke into the biggest smile ever” because he knew all he’d have to do is last ten years to have “made” it. This is when Kearney started getting innovative. A lot of art students get a day job, laboring away in a field that doesn’t stimulate them while trying to summon energy during the off hours to engage in their craft. Kearney signed on with a above: frank zappa

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understand [Venting, Don’t Worry About Me, Joey Ramone, 2002] By 1983, the punk rock scene had fizzled and New York’s economy was in the dumps. Kearney became increasingly frustrated with the rigorous demands of city life and an accompanying lack of inspiration. It was an interest in peace of mind and an ad in the New York Times that brought him to

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“I arrived on my birthday in May. The trees were in full bloom and there was sun and green grass everywhere I looked.” While working with Chapple, Kearney added an interest in architectural photography to his repertoire so that in 1985, when he opened his own studio with his life and business partner, Connie, he was able to offer an array of commercial advertising services that have sustained them for the past 23 years.

Yeah we went… for some spiritual comforting And I felt like a million dollars something that money just can’t bring

4.

Charlotte. Ron Chapple was looking for a partner. From a large group of curious inquires, he reviewed 45 portfolios, and then invited a final five prospects to Charlotte for interviews. Mitchell Kearney was selected for the job and left Manhattan for the sunny skies and warm welcome of the Queen City. above: william s. burroughs

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[Searching for Something, Don’t Worry About Me, Joey Ramone, 2002] In his first week as a Charlotte resident, Kearney attended the Annual Pig Pickin’ of the Charlotte Society of Communicating Arts and was introduced to over 200 people in his industry. “I was immersed in a body of interesting people, an instant community.” Kearney became enamored with the beauty of the area and the sincerity of Charlotteans, as well as their zaniness. “There have always been these great little scenes, you just follow the creativity.” For example, one of Kearney’s favorite annual parties was the Tacky Party. People arrived in the most hideous, outlandishly tacky outfits they could think up. The event mascot was “Ralph,” the mirrored barfing dog, which hung in lieu of a disco ball and spewed confetti over the guests. He feels this is still part of Charlotte’s charm today, that the coolest stuff is a bit off the radar. “You’ve got to know someone. There is excitement; it’s simply a matter of finding out about it before it happens -- and taking part.”

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left: tommy robinson

Peace and love is here to stay And now I can wake up and face the day 5.

[Gimme Gimme Shock Treatment, Leave Home, Ramones, 1977] I meet Mitchell Kearney at his studio and enjoy its Zen-like atmosphere as we talk. The table is littered with large prints, portfolios, and photo books that he has produced for his clients.

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The success of Kearney’s studio relies on a culmination of his various acquired talents as well as a constant willingness to expand. He still does some product work, but spends more time making portraits for advertising clients, engaging in architectural projects, and designing meaningful, innovative ways to create photographs and present them. “It is a matter of capturing the energy of the moment. I want to produce an image that gives a sense of the whole, even though it is just a slice of time.” When making portraits, Kearney is interested in the beauty of being human. What differentiates his portrait work? Kearney says that it’s all about light and energy, compositions and mood. “There is so much to be learned from watching sunlight outdoors then taking that knowledge to manipulate light indoors to enhance a subject.” Kearney is also documenting the entire construction of the new Wachovia cultural campus on South Tryon Street. He’s gone to the site one day each month for over a year, and will continue until the project is complete. I ask how he takes construction -- something commonly regarded as dirty, messy, and inconvenient -- and turns it into art. “There is beauty in all things, it just depends how it’s captured. My goal here is to show a process in all its awe.” Billed as the “Wachovia Corporate Center Project,” five of Kearney’s photos are showcased each month in the Atrium, and then mounted in an ever-expanding exhibit in the adjacent Rainbow Gallery.

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There’s been so many memories, places that we shared 6.

[Waiting for That Railroad to Go Home, bootlegged studio session, Joey Ramone, pre-2001] Three years ago, Mitchell Kearney Photography moved to NoDa. For years, he watched his friends and colleagues put lots of sweat into building their galleries and studios there. Now the neighborhood is an ever-changing landscape, vibrant with shops, restaurants, musical venues, and art establishments. Kearney has experienced a lot of Charlotte’s evolution as a city, and he believes it has been the high level of creativity in all aspects of the business and social fabric of the citizens of Charlotte, which have brought about the advances in our quality of living. He enjoys being a part of the creative culture and its hot spots, including the Light Factory, the McColl Center, and Charlotte’s latest creative offerings like Pecha Kucha, sponsored by Point 8. This event gathers a diverse group of artists, architects, and designers to present 20 images for 20 seconds each, creating exciting, fast-paced presentations. And, of course, Mitchell Kearney is there to capture it all. U Learn more about Mitchell Kearney’s photography online at mitchellkearney.com. Reach Celina at [email protected] For more info, go to www.uptownclt.com www.uptownclt.com

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AFRO-AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER GALLERY 401 N. Myers St. 704.374.1565 Tuesday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. www.aacc-charlotte.org Founded in 1974, the AACC was created to preserve and promote African-American art, history, and culture through a broad range of fine art exhibitions, performing arts and educational programming. On a sunny day it’s hard not to be captivated by the two stories of stained glass that cast a multicolored glow on its galleries. But you’ll have to act fast to see this site for yourself. In late 2009, the AACC will be leaving its home of 22 years and relocate to the new cultural arts facility located in Charlotte’s historic Brooklyn neighborhood. On view through the end of February is The African Presence in Mexico, which pairs turn-of-the-century photographs by Mexican photographer Romualdo Garcia with contemporary photographs by Wendy Phillips. The photos depict Mexicans of African descent in scenes from their daily lives. Also on display through the end of February is This Far by Faith, which includes selected works of local awardwinning artist, Rev. L. Dianne Flournoy. BANK OF AMERICA GALLERIES Hearst Tower 114 N. Tryon St. and Bank of America Corporate Center 100 N. Tryon St. Monday – Friday 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. You don’t need to be Ken Lewis’s best buddy to see a sampling of one of the 52

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largest corporate art collections in the United States. The Bank of America Galleries, located in the Bank of America Corporate Center and the art-deco inspired Hearst Tower, regularly feature artists whose work is a part of the larger Bank of America Collection. Now showing through June 30 are two photography exhibits: a selection of works by Maria Martinez-Cañas, and “Hat Ladies,” by Julie Moos. Martinez-Cañas, a Cuban-American, was inspired to create her collaged photographic compositions by the Cuban stamps given to her by her sister. Her art combines her cubist-Latin style with photographic images of Cuban landscape and architecture. The Senior Sisters of Alabama’s New Pilgrim Baptist Church are the subjects of Julie Moos: Hat Ladies. Photographed in pairs, these images honor these women’s importance as cultural leaders, church members, and civil rights activists. COFFEY & THOMPSON 1412-C E. Fourth St. 704.375.7232 Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. www.coffeyandthompson.com Best known for their wildlife and sporting art, Coffey & Thompson have been decorating Charlotte homes and offices since 1946. They are home to one of the largest collections of Amsterdam Edition J.J. Audubon “Birds of America” prints. These life-sized, limited-edition reproductions are scarce and highly collectible. If you’re looking for something more contemporary, Coffey & Thompson also showcases many of the works by popular Charlotte artist Edwin Gil.

ELIZABETH ROSS GALLERY Overcash Performing Arts Center Central Piedmont Community College Elizabeth Ave. & Kings Dr. 704.330.6211 Monday – Friday 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. www.cpcc.edu/art_gallery You may have to dodge a few construction cones on the way to the CPCC campus to visit the Elizabeth Ross Gallery. This single-room gallery is named after CPCC’s first fine arts instructor, Elizabeth Ross, who began teaching at the college in 1968 and who continues to teach there part time. Featured through March 4 is Wanda Steppe: Paintings Under the Spell of Magic Realism. Through images like trees with their skeletons exposed, over-ripe fruit breaking from the stem, and birds in precarious positions, Steppe’s art examines the uncertainty and fragility of life. PEASE AUDITORIUM GALLERY Central Piedmont Community College Elizabeth Ave. & Pease Ln. 704.330.3211 Monday – Friday 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. www.cpcc.edu/art_gallery After you visited the Ross Gallery, cross Elizabeth Avenue and travel one block east to Pease Auditorium Gallery. Originally the sole gallery on the CPCC campus, the Pease Gallery displays the artistic creations of both students and professionals. In celebration of Women’s and Black History Months, the works of Beverly Smith will be on display. Smith’s works of textile art reflect the broad scope of AfricanAmerican quilting. The two most common subjects of Smith’s quilts are social and political themes, many of which focus on the lifestyles and civil rights struggles of

words: erin kasari

1/26/2009 12:52:16 PM

right: duy huynh - cumulus curiosity

African-Americans in the South. GALLERY L at THE MAIN LIBRARY 301 N. Tryon St., First Floor 704.336.2074 Monday - Thursday 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. www.plcmc.org/programs/gallery_L “L” is for “left,” which is the direction you’ll turn when you enter through the library’s doors to view the latest exhibit at Gallery L. Gallery L has been home to a variety of art exhibits which have included works from local artists and the Smithsonian Institution. To celebrate and encourage reading in the community, the next Gallery L exhibit will feature The Big Read and will run from January 26 through March 1. The exhibit will capture the essence of the selected book, To Kill a Mockingbird, by intertwining images of Charlotte with those found in the award-winning film. HODGES TAYLOR GALLERY 401 N. Tryon St. 704.334.3799 Monday by appointment; Tuesday – Friday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. www.hodgestaylor.com Before Charlotte had gallery crawls, art districts, and museums, it had Hodges Taylor Gallery. Christy Taylor and Dorothy Hodges were the first ladies of the Uptown arts scene, introducing Charlotteans to contemporary artists of the Southeast since 1981. From ceramic sculptures inspired by organic shapes to an oil-on-canvas depiction of a highway bridge, the artwork contained within this veteran gallery’s walls is as varied and colorful as the people that pass by their Tryon Street location.

www.museumofthenewsouth.org Through interactive exhibits and ongoing programs, the Levine Museum of the New South tells the stories of the people -- men, women, and children, black and white, rich and poor, longtime residents and newcomers -- who have shaped the South since the Civil War. Opening February 14 is Changing Places, a yearlong project that examines how people in the region are dealing with Charlotte’s growing cultural diversity and the changes created by the arrival of newcomers from across the U.S. and around the globe. Using a new technology known as “Video TalkBack,” visitors to the museum become part of the exhibit by recording responses to questions about the exhibit’s themes. The exhibit becomes an ongoing and ever-changing conversation between newcomers and longtime residents, trading stories and perspectives.

LEVINE MUSEUM OF THE NEW SOUTH 200 E. Seventh St. 704.333.1887 Monday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday 12 p.m. - 5 p.m.

THE LIGHT FACTORY 345 N. College St., Suite 211 704.333.9755 Monday - Saturday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday 1 p.m. – 6 p.m. www.lightfactory.org

The Light Factory is best known as the area’s only museum dedicated to photography and film. However, what they really pride themselves in is engaging the community through cutting-edge art installations and providing a little extra push to individual boundaries to expand horizons both artistically and culturally. The most recent installation, China I-Sights, examines modern-day China through the eyes of seven Chinese photographers. Never before exhibited outside mainland China, the photographs explore the themes of the population shift from country to city, gender roles, prostitution, trans-sexuality, and the emergence of a thriving pop music/club scene. McCOLL CENTER FOR VISUAL ART 721 N. Tryon St. 704. 332.5535 Tuesday - Saturday 11:00 am - 4:00 pm www.mccollcenter.org The McColl Center for Visual Art is where the community and the creative connect. Each year, the converted church is home to five Artists-in-Residence, many of whom have open-door policies to include the community in their creative process. www.uptownclt.com

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In addition to supplying studio space, the McColl Center also hosts regular exhibitions featuring nationally acclaimed shows or the works of their resident artists. Through March 7, see the dynamic exhibit Per(MUTATIONS): Interactive work of Brian Knep. This new-media artist uses a combination of art, architecture, and science to create works that are influenced by the audience and reflect the interconnected and impermanent nature of the world. MINT MUSEUM OF CRAFT + DESIGN 220 N. Tryon St. 704.337.2000 Tuesday - Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. third Thursday 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday 12 – 5 p.m. www.themintmuseums.org On Tuesdays, take a break from your regular lunch routine and take advantage of free admission at The Mint Museum of Craft + Design. In addition to the permanent collection of contemporary studio craft, enjoy an ever-changing schedule of exhibitions, lectures and workshops. February 14 through June 7, the MMCD will be the only United States venue to host From the Melting Pot into the Fire: Contemporary Ceramics in Israel. Through innovative ceramic works, the represented artists explore their personal identities and their connections to their homeland. Note: Admission to the Mint Museum of Craft + Design is free Tuesday from 10am2pm and the third Thursday of the month from 5-8pm. PICTURE HOUSE 1520 E. Fourth St. 704.333.8235 Monday – Friday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. www.picturehousegallery.com Picture House gallery is the place to go when you are looking for quality artwork but are still undecided on a particular style. Featuring an array of paintings, original art, sculpture, and art glass in a variety of styles and sizes, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes. Even if you’re not in the market for art at this time, be sure to stop 54

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in during the month of February when the gallery’s space will be cleared to make room for 25 life-sized sculptures of the late master sculptor Frederick Hart. Hart is best known for his Three Soldiers statue at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, in Washington, D.C.

CHARLOTTE ART LEAGUE 1517 Camden Rd. 704.376.2787 Monday – Thursday 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Friday 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. Saturday 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. Sunday 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. www.charlotteartleague.org Part artist colony, part art education center, the Charlotte Art League is a nonprofit organization that offers a variety of opportunities for artists and art enthusiasts alike. Located in a South End warehouse, the CAL hosts monthly lectures as well as weekend classes in a variety of media. Additionally, the CAL presents a monthly art exhibit which consists of original work by CAL members that is focused around a central theme. The February show, Sankofa, is inspired by the concept from the Akan people of West Africa of embracing one’s past to achieve one’s full potential. CIEL GALLERY 1519 Camden Rd. 704.577.1254 Tuesday – Friday 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. www.cielcharlotte.com As a mosaic artist, Pam Goode found only limited opportunities for artists like her to display and share their talents. So she created Ciel -- French for “sky” -- Gallery as a place where the exhibition and creation of art has no boundaries. While Ciel functions as a working mosaics studio, the gallery displays many other forms of art. Additionally, Ciel offers classes for beginning through advanced students for both children and adults. Ciel also serves as the headquarters for the Community Mosaic Project, a public art effort started in 2007 to design, create, and install a

300-square-foot mosaic mural on Camden Road near the Bland Street light-rail station. DOMA GALLERY 1310 S. Tryon St., #106 704.607.7300 Tuesday – Friday 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. or by appointment www.domaart.com DOMA is one of the newest additions to Charlotte’s art scene. Meaning “home” in Czech, DOMA is the first gallery in Charlotte dedicated to contemporary fine art photography. The gallery is located in the former Cadillac/Packard automobile dealership building. The gallery represents renowned artists such as Mike Smith, master of portrait and landscape photography, whose work is included in the permanent collections of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Library of Congress. ELDER ART 1427 South Boulevard, Suite 101 704.370.6337 Monday by appointment; Tuesday - Friday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. www.elderart.com Whenever Larry Elder saw that he and his friend and fellow artist David Benson had entered the same art competition, Elder was ready to surrender his paint brush and concede the contest -- it was almost a given that Benson’s unique style and slightly bizarre subject matter would win every time. Come and see why Elder was so willing to acquiesce to Benson’s talents, when Elder Art will feature several series of paintings collectively titled A Southern Way of Life. Created over a 30-year period, Benson’s multimedia paintings depict events heavily rooted in Southern folklore, some of which have vanished from daily life while others remain in the mountains and other rural areas across the South. HIDELL BROOKS GALLERY 1910 South Boulevard, Suite 130 704.334.7302 Tuesday – Friday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

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www.hidellbrooks.com Hidell Brooks Gallery is comprised of a thoughtful and captivating collection of pieces from established and emerging contemporary artists. Expect to see a range of works, from those who have their roots in a classical style, such as the Hudson River School-inspired paintings of David Kroll, which depict small animals balanced on fragile manmade objects, to more modern inspired works, like those of Bill Braun, who utilizes the trompe-l’oeil (“tricks the eye”) style to replicate childlike collages on canvas. JOIE LASSITER GALLERY 704.373.1464 Hours by appointment www.lassitergallery.com Don’t think that because she’s shuttered her South End location that Joie Lassiter is exiting the Charlotte art scene. In 2009, the Joie Lassiter Gallery will curate exhibitions and produce satellite shows throughout Charlotte, and continue to focus on developing corporate and private collections. Curator of the Bank of America Plaza exhibitions for the last nine years, Joie Lassiter will be assembling a renowned group of New York and Southeastern artists for the tenth exhibition, which will discuss the topic of sustainability and “green” environments. For an invitation to the exhibit reception and other Joie Lassiter Gallery events please visit their website. McCOLL FINE ART 208 East Boulevard 704.333.5983 Tuesday - Friday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. www.mccollfineart.com Put on your iPod and cue the classical music for your stroll through the halls of McColl Fine Art. The extensive collection of 19th- and 20th-century American and European paintings makes this the grand daddy of Charlotte galleries. These finely pedigreed pictures are representative of some of the best works available of the Impressionist, Barbizon, Hudson River and Academic styles of painting. And while

the prices may prohibit you from adding these pieces to your personal collection, you can enjoy them free while they’re still in McColl’s. SISKATE GALLERY 1710 Camden Rd. 704.370.2826 Thursday – Saturday 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. and by appointment www.lucyandcompany.com Big sister Lucy already has her own namesake store, so it was only fair that little sis, Kate, got hers, too. Originally the working studio for Lucy & Company’s fine furniture and faux paint creations, Siskate Gallery expanded their space to include a contemporary art gallery that features works in a variety of media.

BEET 3202-A North Davidson St. 704.334.3558 Tuesday – Friday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. or by appointment www.beetonline.com Beet puts the “funk” in functional art. Inside you’ll find a diverse collection of one-of-a- kind, contemporary crafts ranging from the whimsical to the wearable. You’ll be mesmerized by the heirloom-quality kaleidoscopes in which polished brass and gems replace the cardboard chamber and colored plastic pieces of the kiddy kind. And be smitten with the miniature quilts

THE ART HOUSE 3103 Cullman Ave. 704.962.9700 Monday – Friday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and by appointment Travel over not one but two sets of tracks to the end of the Cullman Avenue cul-de-sac and discover the creative community that inhabits the Art House. Step into any one of the ten working artist studios to view works as diverse as their creators. Residing in Studio 1 are colorful, jazz-inspired works with a surreal twist. In Studio 9, see the fusion of traditional nude forms with geometric patterns that create singular works, melding the classical with the contemporary. And don’t miss Studio 7 where you’ll see the ongoing development of the Life and Times right: wanda steppe house

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in Black American History (LATIBAH) Collard Greens Museum -- a series of six installations that reflects the significant events that influenced the development of African-American culture.

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with panels that depict some of Charlotte’s iconic eateries. CENTER OF THE EARTH GALLERY 3204 North Davidson St. 704.375.5756 Tuesday – Friday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday 12 p.m. – 7 p.m. www.centeroftheearth.com It’s fitting that Center of the Earth begins their 20th year with an exhibit titled “SEED.” By renovating an abandoned building and creating their gallery, artists and owners Ruth Ava Lyons and J. Paul Sires are credited with planting the artistic seed that made NoDa the cultural destination it is today. Each of the works exhibited in SEED serves as a metaphor for the changes occurring throughout our personal and global environments. In

addition to regular exhibits, Center of the Earth displays the works of 50 emerging and established artists in contemporary sculpture, painting, and glass. DIALECT DESIGN 3204-C North Davidson St. 704.763.0506 Hours by appointment only www.dialectdesign.com Although it’s located right on North Davidson Street, finding the entrance to this gallery is like searching for a back-alley speakeasy. A design-build architecture firm by day and a contemporary gallery on the side, Dialect Design represents over 30 artists whose works embody a variety of media. On the second Friday of each month, join them for Dialect Nights. Enjoy an evening that includes an ever-changing

lineup of visual, musical, and performance arts -- oh, and a good glass of wine, too. No secret knock required. GREEN RICE GALLERY 451 E. 36th St. 704.344.0300 Wednesday – Friday 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Saturday 12 p.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. or by appointment www.green-rice.com Make Green Rice a part of your visual arts diet. With over 2500 square feet of gallery and studio space filled with paintings, mosaics, glass, jewelry, pottery, and more, your eyes will have plenty on which to feast. Green Rice also caters to the community through their Without Walls (WOW) program. Started last summer, WOW puts Green Rice artists out at events to create original works inspired by the sights while educating the community on the creative process. Also new to this gallery’s menu are a Mondaynight drawing class and a Tuesday-evening figure drawing group. Both are open to beginning and seasoned artists. With all of this going on, there’s nothing plain about this rice.

romualdo garcia - woman & man

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HART WITZEN 136 E. 36th St. 704.334.1177 Hours by appointment or during special events www.hartwitzengallery. com Flexible in its function, this 14,000 square-foot space is not a gallery in the traditional sense. Rather, Hart Witzen uses this renovated warehouse as an arts venue, with 17 artist studios and their Black Box Theatre, which seats 40. Since they do

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not have regular business hours, you’ll need to check their website or sign up for their newsletters for information on upcoming events. Coming in February, prepare for the second annual Artzilla -- a multi-media arts production that combines dancers, songwriters, visual artists, and more into one big show. LARK & KEY 453-B E. 36th St. 704.379.1826 Monday – Saturday 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. www.larkandkey.com It’s hard to believe that this new kid on the NoDa block is already one year old! Celebrate by stopping in and picking up a gift for yourself -- or for someone else you love. Inside this bright and charming shop is an eclectic selection of jewelry, pottery, paper goods, t-shirts, and more. In fact, making a choice may be tough, and one gift may not be enough. If this is the case, go ahead and pick up a few. That way Lark & Key will make it to birthday number two.

MADDI’S GALLERY 1530 East Blvd. 704.332.0007 Monday – Friday 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m; Sunday 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. www.maddisgallery.com Maddi’s is a colorful and folksy twist on the traditional craft gallery. Specializing in American crafts, jewelry, and Southern folk creations, Maddi’s has an abundance of art to accessorize both you and your home. Current curiosities include expressive, vibrant, and wholly Southern face jugs, twisty glass candle sticks that have a wonderful flair, the wildly popular handcarved Lucite jewelry of Alex Bittar. . . . We could go on and on, but we don’t want to ruin the surprise. You’ll have to swing by and see their full assortment with your own eyes.

PROVIDENCE GALLERY 601-A Providence Rd. 704.333.4535 Monday – Friday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. www.providencegallery.net Providence Gallery has been the goto gallery for both the novice and the experienced Charlotte art collector for the last 30 years. With a stable of over 40 gallery artists, they have one of the largest selections of landscape, figurative, still life, abstract and mixed-media originals. February 6 marks the opening of their annual “Three Women” show. The show, which runs through February 27, will feature the figurative and still-life works of Sheryl Stalnaker, Dru Warmath, and Laurie Richardson. REDSKY GALLERY 1244 East Blvd. 704.377.6400 Monday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. www.redskygallery.com RedSky Gallery is the place to go when you’re looking for a little something for the person in your life who has a lot of everything. More than just photographs, paintings, and prints, this four-story gallery also has vast collection of some of the most interesting and unique fine craft and functional art pieces in Charlotte. Whether you’re looking for a trinket or a treasure, start (and end) your search at RedSky Gallery. RENEE GEORGE GALLERY 2839 Selwyn Ave., Suite Z 704.332.3278 Tuesday – Friday 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Saturday 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. www.reneegeorgegallery.com If you’ve been knocking on the door of the bungalow in which the Renee George Gallery resided, you may have noticed that nobody’s home. That’s because they’ve moved to a swanky Selwyn Avenue location. Although the new space is slightly smaller, the black floors and white walls provide the perfect backdrop to showcase

the abstract and modern collections that Renee George Gallery is best known for. The February show featuring a selection of limited edition sculptures by Marta Moreau provides the perfect opportunity for you to check out their new digs. SHAIN GALLERY 2823 Selwyn Ave. 704.334.7744 Tuesday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. or by appointment www.shaingallery.com Even though they have a reputation as one of the premiere fine art galleries in Charlotte, you don’t need to be a member of the city’s Who’s Who to gain access to Shain Gallery. Their exquisite art collection includes contemporary works by over 20 regionally and nationally recognized artists. On view in February are the paintings of prominent sculptor and landscape and portrait artist Chas Fagan. A nationally acclaimed artist, Fagan was commissioned by Charlotte’s May 20th Society to produce a statue called “The Spirit of Mecklenburg,” which will be placed on the Greenway in Uptown. Fagan’s other commissioned sculptures include Neil Armstrong, for Washington, D.C., and George H.W. Bush, for the city of Houston. SOPHIA’S GALLERY 1528 East Blvd. 704.332.3443 Monday – Friday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. www.sophiasgalleries.com Don’t be fooled. This gallery’s nondescript exterior is not indicative of the art that hangs inside. Sophia specializes in original oil, pastel, and watercolor paintings by local and regional artists. On February 12, one of Sophia’s most popular artists, Anne Neilson, will present works from her “Angel” series of paintings, as part of a benefit art show titled Angels in Our Midst. Sales from the show, which runs through February 28, will benefit the Harvest Center. U Reach Erin at [email protected] For more info go to www.uptownclt.com

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RILEY OWENS IS SITTING AT THE CORNER OF RANDOLPH AND SHARON AMITY IN A BLACK LINCOLN NAVIGATOR

...waiting for the traffic light to change -- when her cell phone begins to buzz. It’s lying on the passenger seat beside her. She reaches for it and glances at the display, trying to determine who the caller is before placing it to her ear. “This is Riley Owens.” “Hi Riley. You don’t know me -- my name is Marshall Steiner -- I’m a friend of your Aunt Adria’s.” “I know who you are,” she says matter-of-factly, as the light turns green. “Oh really? Have we met before?” “No. But we have a friend in common.” “Who?” “Saul. He and I met at Cosmos last year. He talked about you some. Said you were a good friend of his girlfriend’s.” Marshall mulls Riley’s statement over in his head a few times, trying to place her and the occasion she’s talking about. “I don’t remember,” Marshall says. “Was I there?” “I found out you were,” she recalls. “Later. But I think Saul and I had a bit too much to drink that night and we were wondering around the library by that time.” “Oh. Ohhhh.” A light goes off in Marshall’s head. “I see. You’re the girl from Bank of America.” “Was the girl from Bank of America,” she says with a tinge of bitterness, as the Navigator trundles along Randolph towards Uptown. “I’m one of those lucky casualties of the banking industry crash.” “Sorry to hear that. What were you doing there.” “Mortgages,” she chuckles. “What else?” “What are you doing now?” “I have an interview with the HoneyBaked Ham Company,” she grimaces. “You’re kidding me. You’re going to sell ham over the counter?” “No, no. It’s for a corporate secretary position. But hey – don’t knock selling ham over the counter. You know when it comes down to it we all gotta’ do what we gotta’ do.” “I hear that!” The two share a brief laugh before Riley decides its time to move beyond the pleasantries. “What can I help you with Mr. Steiner?” “Adria has enlisted myself and Clarice in trying to track down your Uncle Raymond. Do you have any idea where he might be?” “I’ve seen him around a few times,” she offers. “Hanging out at the cemetery near Gateway. Panhandling on Trade Street. He’s been pretty much off the deep end as long as I’ve been alive. We’ve never met during a moment of lucidity, so he doesn’t know who I am, I don’t think.” “You ever try talking with him?” “Once. I gave him part of my lunch and tried to explain to him I was his niece. He was so unfocused and harried. He kept mumbling something about ‘abandonment.’ He took the food I

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February 09.indd 59

gave him and ran off.” “When was the last time you saw him?” “I’m sorry. I don’t remember. I do remember it was on a day that was sunny and warm, though. Maybe it was one of those days in early December. So I’d guess about a month ago. I don’t ever see him when it gets really cold.” Riley is on Fourth Street now, just about to pull the Navigator in to the BB&T Parking garage. “I’m going to lose your signal any minute,” she explains. “I always do in this garage. Anything else I can help you with?” “Yeah. Any idea where he might go?” “Just the obvious. I’d try some of the homeless shelters that take guys in at night when it gets really cold. Or you might do some snooping around Elmwood Cemetery.” “One other thing…” “Yeah?” “Call me back at this number right away if you see him?” “Sure.” Riley rolls the oversized SUV into a tight parking space on the third level of the garage. She scoops up her bag and a manila envelope containing her resume and heads for the entrance of the Overstreet Mall. Inside the elevator Riley is studying her reflection in the mirrored elevator doors just across from her. She finishes adjusting her tailored dark blue suit to fit just right only seconds before the door opens to the 12th floor. The receptionist seated at the desk in the foyer directly in front of her is particularly striking. Rich brown skin, high cheek bones, wavy shoulder length hair and almond shaped eyes. Sort of a cross between Sade and Iman. “I’m Riley Owens. I have an appointment.” The receptionist flashes a friendly, gleaming smile and nods in the direction of the waiting area to the left. “Take a seat right there. Someone will be with you momentarily.” “I THINK I MIGHT BE ABLE TO HELP YOU FIND HIM,” Marshall tells Clarice. “I’m going to a homeless shelter called the Christian Rehabilitation Center. It’s the closest one to Uptown.” “Love the name,” Clarice says with a slight laugh. “They rehabilitate fallen Christians there?” “Stop it,” Marshall shoots back jokingly. “As far as I know it’s one of the oldest shelters in town. I think it’s funded privately and by churches, hence the name. Anyway, there’s a good possibility Raymond might be hanging out there. Did Adria give you any pictures of him?” “Yeah. Are you at home?” “I am.” “Okay. I’ll send them to your email after we get off the phone and you can print them right out. Sound okay?” “Perfect. You wanna come with me?” “I don’t think so. You call me afterwards and let me know www.uptownclt.com

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E

lmwood park

what you find out.” “If he’s not there, it’s been suggested I check out the cemetery today. More than a few people have confirmed he likes to hang there.” “It’s true. I’ve seen him there. Call me later.” “Yup.” THE FRAZZELLED, MIDDLE-AGED MAN PEERS AT MARSHALL OVER A PAIR OF THICK SMUDGED GLASSES. “I don’t know his name, but I have seen this man,” he says. “He doesn’t talk much. He comes in for food and he’ll stay here when it’s cold. The minute it warms up though, he’s out the door.” “Any thoughts about where he might go when he leaves here?” The man shakes his head. “Not really. Some of these guys like to hang out in the cemeteries. I hear tell of a handful of ‘em building little shanty towns in the undergrowth around the 277 entrance near the Westin Hotel. Those kind of flops work good in spring, summer, and fall. Come winter though, they’re unlivable.”

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MARSHALL HOPS IN HIS OLD COMET CONVERTIBLE AND HEADS FOR ELMWOOD CEMETERY. He tools around the grounds a few times, looking for anything out of the ordinary. Finding nothing, he aims his car for the highway landscaping at the 277 entrance the man with the glasses spoke about earlier. Swinging down the ramp, he peers through the massive overgrowth of evergreen bushes trying to discern the presence of any manmade structures or any individuals moving about. Suddenly a little old man fitting Raymond’s description peeks out from between two bushes just as Marshall passes. “That’s him!” Marshal announces excitedly. He grabs his phone and hits Clarice’s speed-dial number. “Marsh?” “I found him. I’m coming to get you. Get Adria over to your place right away. We need to get on this quickly before he starts moving again.” U You can reach David at: [email protected] Read the stories leading up to this one online at uptownclt.com

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Dining and Nightlife Guide AMERICAN Alexander Michael’s – $ 401 W. 9th St. 704.332.6789 Brevard Court Sundries – $ 145 Brevard Court 704.342.4700 Camilles – $ 1518 E. 3rd St. 704.342.4606 Cans – $ 500 W. 5th St. 704.940.0200 Cedar Street Tavern – $ 120 N. Cedar St. 704.333.3448 Champions – $ 100 W. Trade St. - Marriott Hotel 704.333.9000 Comet Grill – $ 2224 Park Rd. 704.371.4300 Cosmos Cafe – $ 300 N. College St. 704.372.3553 Dogwood Cafe – $ 138 Brevard Court 704.376.8353 East Boulevard Grill – $ 1601 East Blvd. 704.332.2414 Ember Grille – $$$ 601 S. College St. WestinHotel 704.335.2064 Fenwick’s – $ 511 Providence Rd. 704.333.2750 Fox and Hound – $ 330 N. Tryon St. 704.333.4113 French Quarter – $ 321 S. Church St. 704.377.7415 The Graduate – $ 1308 E. The Plaza 704.332.8566 John’s Country Kitchen – $ 1518 Central Ave. 704.333.9551 Pike’s Soda Shop – $ 1930 Camden Rd. 704.372.0097 Presto Bar and Grill – $ 445 W. Trade St. 704.334.7088 Providence Café – $ $ 829 Providence R d. 704.376.2008 Providence Road Sundries – $ 1522 Providence Rd. 704.366.4467 Rock Bottom – $ 401 N. Tryon St. 704.334.2739 Selwyn Pub – $ 2801 Selwyn Ave. 704.333.3443 Simmons Fourth Ward Restaurant – $ 516 N. Graham St. 704.334.6640 Something Classic Café – $ 715 Providence Rd. 704.347.3666 South 21 – $ 3101 E. Independence Blvd. 704.377.4509 Southend Brewery – $$ 2100 South Blvd. 704.358.4677 Stool Pigeons – $ 214 N. Church St. 704.358.3788 The Gin Mill South End – $ 1411 S. Tryon St. 704.373.0782 The Graduate – $ 123 W. Trade St. 704.358.3024 The Penguin – $ 1921 Commonwealth Ave. 704.375.6959 The Philosopher’s Stone – $ 1958 E. Seventh St. 704.350.1331 The Pub – $ 710 West Trade St. 704.333.9818 Thomas Street Tavern – $ 1218 Thomas Ave. 704.376.1622 Tic Toc Coffeeshop – $ 512 N. Tryon St. 704.375.5750 Union Grille – $ 222 E 3rd St. – Hilton Towers 704.331.4360 Vinnie’s Sardine – $ 1714 South Blvd. 704-332-0006 Zack’s Hamburgers – $ 4009 South Blvd. 704.525.1720

AMERICAN MODERN 131 Main – $$ 1315 East Blvd. 300 East – $$ 300 East Blvd.

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704.343.0131 704.332.6507

Bentley’s on 27 – $$$ 201 S. College St. Fl. 27 704.343.9201 (Charlotte Plaza Building) Bonterra Restaurant – $$$ 1829 Cleveland Ave. 704.333.9463 Carpe Diem – $$$ 1535 Elizabeth Ave. 704.377.7976 City Tavern – $$ 1514 East Blvd. 704.343.2489 City Tavern – $$ 214 N. Tryon St. 704.334.6688 Custom Shop – $$$ 1601 Elizabeth Ave. 704.333.3396 Fig Tree – $$$ 1601 E. Seventh St. 704.332.3322 Harry & Jeans 201 S. Tryon St. 704.333.4300 Lulu – $$ 1911 Central Ave. 704.376.2242 McNinch House – $$$ 511 N. Church St. 704.332.6159 Mimosa Grill – $$ 301 S. Tryon St. 704.343.0700 Monticello – $$ 235 N. Tryon St. – Dunhill Hotel 704.342.1193 Pewter Rose Bistro – $$ 1820 South Blvd. 704.332.8149 Ratcliffe on the Green – $$ 435 S. Tryon St. 704.358.9898 Taverna 100 – $$$ 100 N. Tryon St. – Founder’s Hall 704.344.0515 Zown Restaurant – $$ 710 W. Trade St. 704.379.7555 Zink – $$ 201 N. Tryon St. 704.444.9001

ASIAN 88 China Bistro – $ 1620 E. 4th St. 704.335.0288 Cherry Blossom – $ 2001 E. 7th St. 704.376.0880 China King – $ 128 Brevard Ct. 704.334-7770 China Queen Buffet – $ 127 N. Tryon St. Ste 3 704.377.1928 China Saute – $ 2214 Park Rd 704.333.1116 Creation – $ 1221-A The Plaza 704.372.2561 Cuisine Malaya – $ 1411 Elizabeth Ave. 704.372.0766 Dim Sum – $ 2920 Central Ave. 704.569.1128 Eggroll King – $ 8907 Steelechase Dr. 704.372.6401 Emperor Chinese – $ 337 S. Kings Dr. 704.333.2688 Fortune Cookie – $ 208 East Independence Blvd. 704.377.1388 Fujiyama – $ 320 S. Tryon St. 704.334.5158 Fuse Box – $ 227 W. Trade St. 704.376.8885 Ginbu 401 – $ 401 Providence Rd. 704.372.2288 Great Wok – $ 718 W Trade St. Ste M 704.333.0080 Ho Ho China Bistro – $ 1742 Lombardy Cir. 704.376.0807 Hong Kong – $ 1713 Central Ave. 704.376.6818 Koko – $ 6609 Elfreda Rd. 704.338.6869 Monsoon Thai Cuisine – $ 2801 South Blvd. 704.523.6778 Orient Express – $ 3200 N Graham St. 704.332.6255 Pho An Hoa – $ 4832 Central Ave. 704.537.2595 Pho Hoa – $ 3000 Central Ave. 704.536.7110 SOHO Bistro – $ 214 N Tryon St. 704.333.5189

Thai Taste – $ 324 East Blvd. 704.332.0001 Taipei Express – $ 731 Providence Rd. 704.334.2288 Tin Tin Box & Noodles – $ 101 N. Tryon St. 704.377.3223 Zen Asian Fusion – $ 1716 Kenilworth Ave. 704.358.9688

BAKERY Cloud 9 Confections – $ 201 S. College St. Suite 270 Great Harvest Bread – $ 901 S. Kings Dr. Marguerite’s Bakery – $ 2424 N. Davidson St. Nova’s Bakery – $ 1511 Central Ave. Panera Bread – $ 601 Providence Rd.

704.334.7554 704.333.0431 704.675.5756 704.333.5566 704.374.0581

BARBEQUE Art’s Barbecue – $ 900 E. Morehead St. 704.334.9424 Jolina Tex Mex & BBQ – $ 500 S. College St. 704.375.0994 Mac’s Speed Shop – $ 2511 South Blvd. 704.522.6227 Rib Palace – $ 1300 Central Ave. 704.333.8841

BREAKFAST Art’s Barbecue – $ 900 E. Morehead St. 704.334.9424 Coffee Cup – $ 914 S. Clarkson St. 704.375.8855 Einstein Brothers – $ 201 S. Tryon St. 704.332.4015 Einstein Brothers – $ 1501 South Blvd. 704.333.4370 IHOP – $ 2715 E. Independence Blvd. 704.334.9502 Monticello – $$ 235 N. Tryon St. – Dunhill Hotel 704.342.1193 Owen’s Bagel & Deli – $ 2041 South Blvd. 704.333.5385 Tic Toc Coffeeshop – $ 512 N. Tryon St. 704.375.5750

BRITISH Big Ben’s Pub – $ 801 Providence R d.

704.334.6338

CAJUN & CREOLE Boudreaux’s Louisiana Kitchen – $ 501 E. 36th St. 704.331.9898 Cajun Queen – $$ 1800 E 7th St. 704.377.9017

C A R I B B E A N Anntony’s Caribbean Cafe – $ 2001 E. 7th St. 704.342.0749 Austin’s Caribbean Cuisine – $ 345 S. Kings Dr. 704.331.8778

CHINESE 88 China Bistro – $ 1620 E. 4th St. 704.335.0288 Vanloi Chinese Barbecue – $ 3101 Central Ave. 704.566.8808 Wok Express – $ 601 S. Kings Dr. 704.375.1122

COFFEE SHOPS Caribou Coffee – $ 100 N. Tryon St.

Dilworth Coffee – $ 1235 East Blvd # B, 704.358.8003 330 S Tryon St, 704.334.4575 Dilworth Playhouse Cafe – $ 1427 South Blvd. 704.632.0336 Einstein Brothers – $ $ - 201 S. Tryon St. 704.332.4015 Einstein Brothers – $ 1501 South Blvd. 704.333.4370 Java Passage – $ 101 W. Worthington 704.277.6558 Jump N Joe’s Java Joint – $ 105 E. Morehead St. 704.372.3217 La Tea Da’s – $ 1942 E. 7th St. 704.372.9599 Nova’s Bakery – $ 1511 Central Ave. 704.333.5566 SK Netcafe – $ 1425 Elizabeth Ave. 704.334.1523 Starbucks – $ 545 Providence Rd. 704.372.1591 Starbucks – $ 101 S. Tryon St. 704.374.9519 Tic Toc Coffee shop – $ 512 N. Tryon St. 704.375.5750

DELI Adams 7th Street Market – $ 401 Hawthorne Ln. 704.334.0001 Art’s Barbecue – $ 900 E. Morehead St. 704.334.9424 Common Market – $ 2007 Commonwealth Ave. 704.334-6209 Dikadee’s Deli – $ 1419 East Blvd. 704.333.3354 Dogwood Cafe – $ 138 Brevard Court 704.376.8353 Fresco Cafe & Deli – $ 3642 Moultrie St. 704.376.5777 Grand Central Deli – $ 101 N. Tryon St. 704.348.7032 Great Harvest Bread Co. – $ 901 S. Kings Dr. 704.333.0431 Groucho’s Deli – $ 201 N. Tryon St. 704.342.0030 Halfpenny’s – $ 30 Two First Union Ctr. 704.342.9697 Jersey Mike’s Subs – $ 128 S. Tryon St. 704.343.0006 Jersey Mike’s Subs – $ 1408 East Blvd. 704.295.9155 Jersey Mikes Subs – $ 2001 E. 7th St. 704.375.1985 Jump N Joe’s Java Joint – $ 105 E. Morehead St. 704.372.3217 Laurel Market South – $ 1515 South Blvd. 704.334.2185 Leo’s Delicatessen – $ 1421 Elizabeth Ave. 704.375.2400 Li’l Dino – $ 401 S. Tryon St. 704.342.0560 Matt’s Chicago Dog – $ 425 S. Tryon St. 704.333.3650 Owen’s Bagel & Deli – $ 2041 South Blvd. 704.333.5385 Panera Bread – $ 601 Providence Rd. 704.374.0581 Philadelphia Deli – $ 1025 S. Kings Dr. 704.333.4489 Phil’s Tavern – $ 105 E. Fifth St. 704.347.0035 Rainbow Café – $ 400 South Tryon 704.332.8918 Reid’s – $ 225 E. 7th St. 704.377.1312 Ri-Ra Irish Pub – $ 208 N. Tryon St 704.333.5554 Salvador Deli – $ N. Davidson St. 704.334.2344 Sammy’s Deli – $ 1113 Pecan Ave. 704.376.1956

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Dining and Nightlife Guide Sandwich Club – $ 525 N. Tryon St. Sandwich Club – $ 435 S. Tryon St. Substation II - $ 1601 South Blvd 1941 E. 7th St.

704.334.0133 704.344.1975 704-332-3100 704-358-8100

DESSERT Ben & Jerry’s – $ 507 Providence Rd. 704.333.1003 Dairy Queen – $ 1431 Central Ave. 704.377.4294 Dolce Ristorante – $$ 1710 Kenilworth Ave. 704.332.7525 Luce Ristorante – $$ 214 N. Tryon St. – Hearst Plaza 704.344.9222 Monticello – $$ 235 N. Tryon St.– Dunhill Hotel 704.342.1193

ECLECTIC The Melting Pot – $$$ 901 S. Kings Dr. Stuite 140-B 704.548.2431 Therapy Cafe – $ 401 N. Tryon St. 704.333.1353 The Fig Tree – $$ 1601 E. 7th St. 704.332.3322

FRENCH Terra – $$ 545-B Providence Rd.

704.332.1886

GREEK Greek Isles – $$ 200 E. Bland St. Showmars – $ 2004 East 7th St. Showmars – $ 214 N. Tryon St.

704.444.9000 704.376.0565 704.333.5833

INDIAN Copper – $$ 311 East Blvd. Maharani – $ 901 S. Kings Dr. Suruchi’s – $ 129 W. Trade St.

704.333.0063 704.370.2824 704.372.7333

Carrabba’s Italian Grill – $$ 1520 South Blvd. 704.377.2458 Coco Osteria – $$  214 N. Tryon St.–Hearst Plaza 704.344.8878 Dolce Ristorante – $$ 1710 Kenilworth Ave. 704.332.7525 Fig Tree – $$$ 1601 E. 7th St. 704.332.3322 Frankie’s Italian Grille – $$ 800 E. Morehead St. 704.358.8004 Hawthorne’s NY Pizza – $ 1701 E. 7th St. 704.358.9339 Intermezzo Pizzeria & Café – $ 1427 E. 10th St. 704.347.2626 Little Italy – $ 2221 Central Ave. 704.375.1625

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L AT I N Cloud 9 Confections – $ 201 S. College St. 704.334.7554 Latorre’s – $$ 118 W. 5th St. 704.377.4448 Coffee Cup – $ 914 S. Clarkson St. 704.375.8855

M E AT & T H R E E Dish – $ 1220 Thomas Ave. 704.344.0343 Mert’s Heart & Soul – $ 214 N. College St. 704.342.4222 Blue – $$$ 214 N. Tryon St. 704.927.2583 Intermezzo Pizzeria & Café – $ 1427 E. 10th Street 704.347.2626

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Luce Ristorante & Bar – $$$ 214 N. Tryon St. – Hearst Plaza 704.344.9222 Mama Ricotta’s – $$ 601 S. Kings Dr. 704.343.0148 Open Kitchen – $ 1318 W. Morehead St. 704.375.7449 Pasta & Provisions – $ 1528 Providence Rd. 704.364.2622 Portofino’s Italian – $$ 3124 Eastway Dr. 704.568.7933 Primo Ristorante – $$ 116 Middleton Dr. 704.334.3346 Cafe Siena – $$ 230 N. College St. 704.602.2750 Salute Ristorante – $$ 613 Providence Rd 704.342.9767 Terra – $$ 545-B Providence Rd. 704.332.1886 Villa Francesca 321 Caldwell St. 704.333.7447 Volare – $$ 1523 Elizabeth Ave. 704.370.0208 Zio Authentic Italian – $$ 116 Middleton Dr. 704.344.0100

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Cabo Fish Taco – $ 3201 N. Davidson St. Johnny Burrito – $ 301 S. Tryon St. La Paz – $$ 1910 South Blvd. Phat Burrito – $ 1537 Camden Rd. Salsarita’s – $ 101 S. Tryon St. Taqueria La Unica – $ 2801 Central Ave.

704.332.8868 704.371.4448 704.372.4168 704.332.7428 704.342.0950 704.347.5115

MIDDLE EASTERN Kabob Grill – $ 1235-B East Blvd.

704.371.8984

OUTDOOR DINING Big Ben’s Pub – $$ 801 Providence Rd. Cans Bar – $ 500 W. 5th St.

704.334.6338 704.940.0200

East Boulevard Grill – $ 1601 East Blvd. 704.332.2414 Ember Grille – $$$ 601 S. College St. - Westin Hotel 704.335.2064 Ri-Ra Irish Pub – $ 208 N. Tryon St 704.333.5554 Sullivan’s – $$$ 1928 South Blvd. 704.335.8228 The Corner Pub – $ 335 N. Graham St. 704.376.2720

PIZZA Brixx – $ 225 East 6th St. 704.347.2749 Donato’s Pizza - $ 718-A West Trade St 704.714.4743 Domino’s Pizza – $ 343 S. Kings Dr. 704.331.9847 Fuel Pizza – $ 214 N. Tryon St. 704.350.1680 Fuel Pizza – $ 1501 Central Ave. 704.376.3835 Hawthorne’s NY 1701 E. 7th St. 704.358.9339 Italian Village Pizza 1225 East Blvd 704.332.2880 Latta Pizza – $ 320 S. Tryon St. 704.333.4015 Papa John’s Pizza – $ 1620 E. 4th St. 704.375.7272 Picasso’s – $ 214 N. Church St. 704.331.0133 Pizza Hut – $ 901 S. Kings Dr. 704.377.7006 Rudino’s Pizza & Grinders – $ 2000 South Blvd. - Atherton Mill 704.333.3124 UNO Chicago Grill – $ 401 S. Tryon St. 704.373.0085 Villa Francesca 321 Caldwell St. 704.333.7447 Zio Authentic Italian – $ 116 Middleton Dr. 704.344.0100

QUICK BITES Bojangles’ – $ 310 E Trade St. 704.335.1804 Boston Market – $ 829 Providence Rd. 704.344.0016 Burger King – $ 310 E. Trade St. 704.334.3312 Chick-fil-A – $ 101 S. Tryon St. 704.344.0222 Chicks Restaurant – $ 320 S. Tryon St. – Latta Arcade 704.358.8212 Church’s – $ 1735 W. Trade St. 704.332.2438 Dairy Queen – $ 1431 Central Ave. 704.377.4294 Domino’s Pizza – $ 343 S. Kings Dr. 704.331.9847 Fuel Pizza – $ 214 N. Tryon St. 704.350.1680 Fuel Pizza – $ 1501 Central Ave. 704.376.3835 Green’s Lunch – $ 309 W. 4th St. 704.332.1786 Mr. K’s – $ 2107 South Blvd. 704.375.4318 Papa John’s Pizza – $ 1620 E. 4th St 704.375.7272

Pasta & Provisions – $ 1528 Providence Rd. 704.364.2622 Pita Pit – $ 214 N. Tryon St. 704.333.5856 Quiznos Sub – $ 127 N. Tryon St. 704.374.9921 Quizno’s – $ 320 S. Tryon St. – Latta Arcade 704.372.8922 Roly Poly Sandwiches – $ 317 S. Church St. 704.332.6375 Sbarro – $ 101 S. Tryon St. 704.332.5005 Simply Subs – $ 212 S. Tryon St. 704.333.0503 Smoothie King – $ Epicentre - 210 Trade St. 704.979.6911 Smoothie King – $ One Wachovia Center 704.374.0200 Spoons – $ 415 Hawthorne Ln. 704.376.0874 Woody’s Chicago Style – $ 320 S. Tryon St. - Latta Arcade 704.334.0010 Zack’s Hamburgers – $ 4009 South Blvd. 704.525.1720

S E A F O O D Aquavina – $$$ 435 S. Tryon St. 704.377.9911 Cabo Fish Taco – $ 3201 N. Davidson St. 704.332.8868 Capital Grille – $$$ 201 N. Tryon St. 704.348.1400 Fig Tree –$$$ 1601 E. Seventh St. 704.332.3322 GW Fins – $$ 525 N. Tryon S 704.716.3467 LaVecchia’s – $$$ 225 E. 6th St. 704.370.6776 McCormick & Schmick’s – $$$ 200 South Tryon St. 704.377.0201 McIntosh’s – $$$ 1812 South Blvd. 704.342.1088 Outback Steakhouse – $$ 1412 East Blvd. 704.333.2602

SOUTHERN & SOUL Lupie’s Cafe – $ 2718 Monroe Rd. 704.374.1232 Mert’s Heart and Soul – $ 214 N. College St 704.342.4222 Price’s Chicken Coop – $ 1614 Camden Rd. 704.333.9866 Savannah Red – $$ 100 W. Trade St. 704.333.9000 Marriott City Center

S P A N I S H Arpa Tapas – $$$ 121 W. Trade St. 704.372.7792 Sole Spanish Grille – $$$ 1608 East blvd.. 704.343.9890

S T E A K H O U S E Beef & Bottle – $$$ 4538 South Blvd. Capital Grille – $$$ 201 N. Tryon St.

704.523.9977 704.348.1400

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Dining and Nightlife Guide LaVecchia’s – $$$ 225 E. 6th St. 704.370.6776 Longhorn Steakhouse – $$ 700 E. Morehead St. 704.332.2300 McIntosh’s – $$$ 1812 South Blvd. 704.342.1088 Morton’s – $$$ 227 W.Trade St.- Carillon bldg. 704.333.2602 Outback Steakhouse – $$ 1412 East Blvd. 704.333.2602 Ruth’s Chris – $$$ 222 S. Tryon St. 704.338.9444 Sullivan’s – $$$ 1928 South Blvd. 704.335.8228

S U S H I Cosmos Cafe – $$ 300 N. College St. Fujo Uptown Bistro – $$ 301 S. College St KO Sushi – $$ 230 S. Tryon St. Nikko – $$ 1300-F South Blvd. Restaurant i – $$ 1524 East Blvd. Ru-San’s Sushi – $$ 2440 Park Rd.

704.372.3553 704.954.0087 704.372.7757 704.370.0100 704.333.8118 704.374.0008

T A P A S Arpa Tapas – $$$ 121 W. Trade St. Cosmos Cafe – $$ 300 N. College St. Town Restaurant – $$ 710 W Trade St.

704.372.7792 704.372.3553 704.379.7555

V E G E T A R I A N Dish – $ 704.344.0343 1220 Thomas Ave. Something Classic Café – $ 715 Providence Rd. 704.347.3666

V I E T N A M E S E Pho An Hoa – $ 4832 Central Ave.

704.537.2595

B A R S Amos SouthEnd – $ 1423 S. Tryon St. Apostrophe Lounge – $$ 1400 S. Tryon St. BAR Charlotte – $ 300 N. College St. Big Ben’s Pub – $$ 801 Providence Rd. Brick & Barrel – $ 200 N. Tryon St. Buckhead Saloon – $ 201 E. 5th St. Cans Bar – $ 500 W. 5th St. Cedar Street Tavern – $ 120 N. Cedar St. Connolly’s on 5th – $ 115 E. 5th St. Cosmos – $$ 300 N. College St. Coyote Ugly – $ 521 N. College St. Crush – $ 300 E. Stonewall St. Dilworth Bar & Grille 911 E. Morehead St.

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704.377.6874 704.371.7079 704.342.2557 704.334.6338 704.370.2808 704.370.0687 704.940.0200 704.333.3448 704.358.9070 704.375.8765 704.347.6869 704.377.1010 704.377.3808

Dilworth Billiards 300 E. Tremont Ave. 704.333.3021 Dixie’s Tavern 301 E. 7th St. 704.374.1700 DoubleDoor Inn 218 E. Independence Blvd. 704.376.1446 Ed’s Tavern 2200 Park Rd. 704.335.0033 Evening Muse 3227 N. Davidson St. 704.376.3737 Fox and Hound – $ 330 N. Tryon St. 704.333.4113 The Graduate – $ 1308 E. The Plaza 704.332.8566 Grand Central Deli – $ 101 N. Tryon St. 704.348.7032 Hartigans Pub – $ 601 S. Ceder St. 704.347.1841 Hawthorne’s NY Pizza – $ 1701 E. 7th St. 704.358.9339 Howl at the Moon – $ 210 E. Trade St. 704.936.4695 Jillian’s SouthEnd – $ 300 E. Bland Street 704.376.4386 Loft 1523 – $$ 1523 Elizabeth Ave. 704.333.5898 Madison’s – $$ 115 Fifth St. 704.299.0580 Morehead Tavern – $ 300 East Morehead St. 704.334.2655 Phil’s Tavern – $ 105 E. Fifth St. 704.347.0035 Picasso’s – $ 214 N. Church St. 704.331.0133 Pravda – $$ 300 N. College St. 704.375.8765 Presto Bar and Grill – $ 445 W. Trade St. 704.334.7088 Ri-Ra Irish Pub – $ 208 N. Tryon St 704.333.5554 Selwyn Pub – $ 704.333.3443 2801 Selwyn Ave. Southend Brewery – $$ 2100 South Blvd. 704.358.4677 Stool Pigeons – $ 214 N. Church St. 704.358.3788 Suite – $ 210 E. Trade St. 704.999.7934 The Attic – $ 200 N. Tryon St. 704.358.4244 The Corner Pub – $ 335 N. Graham St. 704.376.2720 The Forum – $$ 300 N. College St. 704.375.8765 The Gin Mill – $ 1411 S. Tryon St. 704.373.0782 The Graduate – $ 123 W. Trade St. 704.358.3024 The Penguin – $ 1921 Commonwealth Ave. 704.375.6959 The Pub – $ 710 West Trade St. 704.333.9818 Thomas Street Tavern – $ 1218 Thomas St. 704.376.1622 Tilt – $$ 127 W. Trade St. 704.347.4870 Tremont Music Hall – $ 400 W Tremont Ave. 704.343.9494 Tutto Mondo – $ 1820 South Blvd. 704.332.8149 Tyber Creek Pub – $ 1933 South Blvd. 704.343.2727 Vinnie’s Sardine – $ 1714 South Blvd. 704.332.0006 Visulite Theater – $ 1615 Elizabeth Ave. 704.358.9250 Whiskey River – $ 210 E. Trade St. 704.749.1097 www.uptownclt.com

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