Archive for the 'Fun for Grown Ups' Category

Come Into the Park, Charlotte Symphony Springtime Fundraiser

April 13th, 2009 categories: Charlotte Arts, Charlotte Legends, Fun for Grown Ups, Giving Back in Charlotte, Myers Park, Rhonda Gibbons

Gabrielle Shain is at it again ~ doing what she and her Shain Gallery on Selwyn Avenue in Myers Park do best!  Come Into the Park is an opportunity to support the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra, dine and dance and to view new works by two nationally recognized artists. I know this will be an awesome event and an chance to see (watch how fast they sell) new works from Kim Schuessler and Geoffrey Johnson who are two of the countries most original, up and coming artists! Kim and Geoff went to art school together, are good friends and delightful people ~ getting to know the artist makes the art so much more memorable! Their works adorn many of Charlotte’s finest homes. Every time I look at the piece Geoffrey did for our wedding I think of the day I met my good friend in France. (story below)

If you are not familiar with their work you will be amazed, while Kim and Geoffrey’s styles are very different, their art genuinely reflects the way they see the world around them. At first you might think Kim’s work playful and Geoff’s brooding that would  be a mistake ~ look closer to see that Geoff’s ethereal work is all about the light and Kim’s figures have a deeper meaning and backstory. Kim and Geoff are not siblings but their art is what you might expect from a brother and sister, not the same, independent but somehow deeply connected. It is a joy to meet them and to see their work!

So Geoff and me in France…two weeks after 9/11 Rhonda and I off to France for a Connie   Winter’s artist workshop – one week, fifteen women, unlimited wine, french countryside, Geoff and me.  Upon meeting Geoffrey in the Marseilles airport we immediately grabbed a beer, became fast friends and set out together to maintain some semblance of “manliness” for the week. Not to fear, this incredible group of smart, funny, talented women took us under their wing — put it this way we learned about a lot more than just painting! Anyway we became good friends and Rhonda and I have become not only huge fans of Geoff’s work but of the person!

So I hope you will join us for Come Into the Park at the Symphony Park band shell (and don’t forget the Summer Concert Series there later in June!) in Southpark on May 14 more information click here. And when you’re in Myers Park please check out the Shain Gallery, one of Charlotte’s best ~ be sure to check out Connie Winter’s work, her son Darren Young’s and of course Kim and Geoff’s too. Say hello to Gabrielle if art is your thing then you want to know Gabrielle!

Spoken by Mike Gibbons | Discussion: 1 Comment »

Fresh Oysters in Charlotte – Found a Pearl!

April 11th, 2009 categories: Charlotte Eats, Charlotte Legends, Charlotte Lifestyle, Fun for Grown Ups, Rhonda Gibbons

OK you either love’em or you hate’em. Let me just say that last night at Vinnie’s Southend three of Charlotte’s top real estate professionals were lovin’em so much we almost grew shells and we need ‘em! Please excuse the hard shell/real estate biz analogy. Rhonda my awesome wife, me and my good friend Gray Steelman took care of a “raw oyster jones” we’ve had for a couple of months. 

As you may know Rhonda and I are now partners on Charlotte’s premier real estate team (after all its our name – Charlotte Premier Realty) haha — anyway we commiserated for a bit and then launched into a full celebration of all things Charlotte real estate and more. Rhonda showed her patience and expertise in contracting a beautiful yet hard to sell Queens Beans condo in Myers Park, Gray is looking to parlay his self storage wizardry into a new venture Mustang Properties and I had some amazing success at a recent entrepreneurial competition for my side venture Buttons of Hope. Yes we ordered extra lemons and made some sweet LEMONADE!

So where’s the pearl? I think these days anyone on a quest for raw seafood has to think twice and to be honest $.25 oyster night always leaves me a bit …queasy ya’ know!  Well quease no more Vinnie’s served up what we all agreed (after yes 7 dozen) were some of the finest juiciest, freshest oyster we’ve ever had..anywhere and believe me Rhonda’s years at Charleston Oyster fests makes her an expert! The service was warm and friendly and the beers were icy cold — let’s just say when you have a hankering for raw oysters on the cheap you must run to Charlotte’s Southend and find a table at Vinnie’s Raw Bar a pearl on the Charlotte restaurant scene.

ps. I know it sounds weird but after all those oysters we needed melted cheese in a bad way (maybe it was the shellfish haze – or Coronas?) so a stop at LaPaz one of our oldest favs (remember waiting 3 hours for a table at LaPaz on Fenton Place?) was in order and ready with some unbelievable blue corn chicken nachos – Go there, Try them!…all in all a great evening in a couple of Charlotte’s hidden gems

Spoken by Mike Gibbons | Discussion: No Comments »

Up and Away (almost) in the ReMax Balloon!

February 15th, 2009 categories: Fun for Grown Ups, Fun for Kids

** please note that we are keeping this post at the top of the blog for a while so after you watch the video please check below for our most recent posts

Crisp autumn air, Carolina blue skies, a pastoral setting what else could you ask for? Well as it turns out a little less wind would have been nice! Last October the Charlotte Premier Realty team Donna, Betsy, Rhonda, Jackie and Blake invited clients and their families to an old fashioned picnic ~ great food, games and yes the famous ReMax hot air balloon. Almost everyone (some were understandably more interested in the watching than the riding) was excited about the chance to ride in a real hot air balloon! While the windy day dashed those hopes ~ we did get to see the balloon, learn from the expert  and watch as the propane jets spewed fire 20 feet into the air! (which was enough for all the boys & men in the crowd)

As we watched the video we could not help but  realize just how close we are to our clients and how much we enjoy their company. We work very hard in our client’s best interest so it was really nice and a bit humbling to hear the nice things that were said  ~ we hope it’s what sets the Charlotte Premier Realty team apart.

We can not thank our friend Cristina Cassidy enough (Rhonda helped Cristina & Ray buy their Charlotte home last year) for creating this video. We were very lucky to have Cristina an exceptionally talented local filmmaker capture the fun, warmth and friendship of that afternoon. Cristina is busy with some amazing projects please check out her Stick it To Me (you’ll never look at a  bumper sticker the same) and her short trailer for her upcoming  hauntingly poignant documentary Concerto for Two Brothers - her work is stunning and soon to be award winning!

So thanks so much for everyone who made it out to the 2008 picnic ~ we loved having you ~ we hope to get the balloon and do it again in 2009 ~ we are all due for calm day don’t you think!

Spoken by Mike Gibbons | Discussion: 4 Comments »

Uptown Charlotte even has its own magazine(s)!

January 15th, 2009 categories: Charlotte Legends, Charlotte Lifestyle, Fun for Grown Ups, Fun for Kids

Yeah who knew, well we knew but maybe you didn’t — Charlotte has a couple of great magazines focused on the still growing and bustling Uptown area. Check out this link to Uptown’s super cool online version of the magazine. If you’ve never seen an online magazine where you can actually turn the page it’s pretty cool. And make sure to watch the short video promoting Under the Influence at Charlotte’s iconic Visualite theatre (it’s not what you think!) SKI much?

Or maybe come by the Visualite and check out the Gourds — now that one caught us by surprise too! Rhonda, Jackie and I however did see two great Duncan Sheik shows at the Visualite if that is more your style!

Oh yes and make sure you check out Charlotte’s newest uptown magazine EYE Charlotte by our friend and reknowned Charlotte Observer reporter Crystal Dempsey!

Spoken by Mike Gibbons | Discussion: No Comments »

Where Can You Blow Off Some Steam in the University Area?

December 22nd, 2008 categories: Charlotte Eats, Communities, Fun for Grown Ups

 

We’re not promoting pollution or the pro or cons of nuclear energy.  However, after a stressful semester and the additional stress of graduating during a tough job market, many living in and around the University area of North Charlotte may need to blow off some steam and have some fun to close out 2008. 

The University area (aka University City) is the North Charlotte community surrounding The University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC).  The community is found along University City Boulevard and W.T Harris Boulevard.  I-485 and North Tryon Street (US 29) also are prominent intersections in the area.  The University area is neighbored by the cities of Harrisburg and Concord.  The outskirts of the University area include Lowe’s Motor Speedway and the Concord Mills Outlet Mall. 

If the beauty of natural flora is your stress reliever, check out the Charlotte Botanical Garden.  The gardens are on the campus of UNCC.  The gardens have three main areas including a greenhouse and two gardens.  Steam can wilt plants so please blow off some steam before you enter the gardens.

If a game of pool and an ice cold beer sound like your scene, check out Smokin’ Cue which is a pool hall on University City Boulevard.  Smokin’ Cue offers friendly service and well-maintained billiards tables.  Women’s Professional Billiards Association members recently participated in an event held here that benefited the Make-A-Wish Foundation.  Thus, if you stop by, you may cross paths with a professional billiards player and get to utter the most famous words in billiards, “rack’em!”

If an authentic Mexican dish and a nice margarita are your stress reliever, Zapata’s is your spot.  Zapata’s is located on J.M. Keynes Drives.  The restaurant offers large portions of authentic Mexican cuisine.  A live Mariachi band plays there nightly and Latin dancing is offered on Saturday night to Salsa, meringue, and cumbia music.  The restaurant has a wonderful view because its location overlooks the University Park Lake near the University City Hilton.

If a Guinness or other beer is your stress reliever, try Tipsey McStumble’s.  The name should say it all.  This completely unauthentic Irish pub on University City Boulevard offers a fun place to just hang out with friends and watch sporting events.  Go easy on the drink specials so that you don’t get too “tipsey.”

If you’re looking for some physical activity to blow off steam, check out Charlotte Pilates which is the only  Pilates studio located in the University and Concord area of Charlotte.  As a Pilates fan, I know that it can provide much needed strength to your core muscles.  This added strength enhances your ability to handle stresses on your body. 

Now, that you’ve blown off your steam, craft a killer resume, network, and attack that job market with vengeance.  Good Luck!

Spoken by Satyra Riggins | Discussion: No Comments »

Where Do the Night Crawlers Go in Uptown Charlotte?

December 10th, 2008 categories: Charlotte Lifestyle, Fun for Grown Ups

Is your skin crawling as you view the slimy, night creature above?  Don’t worry, I’m not going to discuss that worm but I will discuss night crawlers in the form of bar and club goers in the Uptown Charlotte area.  Please don’t be offended as I’m not saying that bar and club goers are slimy and offensive.  To say the least, bar and club goers are vibrant, hip people who generally are a lot of fun to be around both day and night.

Charlotte has a vibrant nightlife with an array of bars and nightclubs for whatever musical or drink preference that you have.  From the tunes of the 1980s at The Breakfast Club to the high energy and superb DJ’s at The Forum, or the charm of Rí~Rá, Charlotte Uptown nightlife has something for night crawlers from all walks (ha!) of life.  Here are some Uptown dance clubs and Uptown bars that may catch your fancy.

UPTOWN DANCE CLUBS

The Forum is located on North College Street.  It has a spacious dance floor which is great since the DJ’s keep the music loud and the energy level high.  During warm nights, the rooftop garden provides a great view of the Charlotte skyline as well as the 7th street alley. The ice bar keeps drinks at a comfortable and “chill” temperature for the hip crowd.  The Forum seems like a great place to get a workout without trying too hard.

The Breakfast Club is located on Caldwell Street.  The club takes its name from the 1980s movie which bears the same name.  The club is on three level and features a vibrant mix of 80s music at all times.  There is an outside patio for warm night and a tiki bar.  In addition, there are TV’s scattered throughout the club which play videos from MTV’s early days in addition to 1980s movies.  Most club goers wear 1980s memorabilia so that they can get fully in the mood of this big hair, big earrings era.  I was a teenager during the 1980s so this club is definitely on my “must go to” list.

Tilt is located on West Trade Street in the heart of Uptown Charlotte.  Tilt has live music, flat-screen TV’s.  Chandeliers and hardwood floors reflect an upscale feel.  In addition, Tilt has a strict dress code which tends to attract young, professionals.  Tilt offers some of the better drinks in town so you may be slightly “tilted” when you leave this fun club.

UPTOWN BARS

Rí~Rá is located on North Tryon Street.  It is an Irish pub with a charming and comfortable feel.  The bar has a collection of Dublin ledgers and an antique Guinness mirror.  The bar was built using original materials from original Irish pubs.  Guinness is obviously the more popular beer in this locale.

Cosmo’s Cafe is located on College Street near The Forum dance club.  Cosmo’s has an extensive martini list with such favorites as the Fruit Loop, Liquid Sunshine, and the Flirtini.  If you’re a martini fan, you may have found your watering spot.  Cosmo’s also has an extensive sushi menu.  I’m a big fan of Cosmo’s sushi platter which has a lot of choices for you raw fish connoisseurs.

Now, aren’t you glad that you took the time to peruse this selection rather than running away at the sight of the night crawler worm?  I hope that you found something that made you want to become a night crawler if only for one night!

Spoken by Satyra Riggins | Discussion: No Comments »

101 Great things to do in Charlotte NC #83 Phillips Place

August 31st, 2008 categories: Charlotte Eats, Charlotte Legends, Fun for Grown Ups

83. Phillips Place – Fine, upscale shopping opportunities, along with breathtaking landscaping, line the streets at Phillips Place

Once in a while we have a Charlotte attraction that is just too big & too much fun that it merits its own post! Phillips Place is one to those attractions! Phillips Place has it all ~ Rhonda and I are there on average once a week and we have plenty of great memories there! I’ll share a few as we take a tour.

Catch a movie in the beautiful Phillips Place 10 movie theater (we saw the first Harry Potter (Rhonda’s fave) a midnight show!)

One of Rhonda’s and my favorite people Lyn Conger is part owner of Charlotte’s nattiest clothing store Taylor Richards Conger and be sure to check out their new women’s shop TRCW!

We LOVE the roasted Prince Edward mussels (and everything we’ve ever tried) at Upstream ~ we agree its one of the best seafood restaurants ever! Great unsung sushi bar too.

Then its on to the Dean & Deluca Wine Room ~ one of Charlotte’s first and still best ~ sit outside and people watch, once the tress aer dressed in the twinkling white Holiday lights you might even think of Paris (OK it depends a bit on the number of glasses) and yes we have sat outside there in November! Oh and don’t forget the incredible Dean & Deluca Deli across the street — can’t tell you how many quick delicious pre-movie meals we’ve had here and if you love red velvet cake there’s is the best!

Il Posto Osteria is one of the best Italian trattorias you will find ~ high praise since I grew up in New York! I love pasta and had the beat mushroom ravioli ever at Il Posto ~ al fresco dining is a must here!
The Palm Let’s just say if you are looking for a special night out or to entertain an important business client you won’t go wrong. Greta steak, big lobsters and huge portions! Who know maybe you’ll get your caricature on the wall!
PF Chang’s We love the casual, always great Chinese cuisine. My son Ryan picked Chang’s for his first dinner date…aahhhh!
Restoration Hardware Explore, especially fun at the Holidays when they bring in all kind s of cool gadgets — fill your stocking here!
Smith & Hawken  Charlotte is lucky to have this store! Rhonda says it’s “therapy for your green thumb”

Hampton Inn & Suites  Excellent place for intown guests (we put up our wedding party here ~ they almost did not make it to the wedding!), not your average Hampton with great views and a short walk to all of the amenities described here!
Post Park Apartments  Like what you see here? Well why not live right here in Phillips Place — some of Charlotte’s most luxurious apartments Relocating? Why not stay here while you decide where to decide where to buy your Charlotte home!
(101 Charlotte things to do courtesy of NC Tourist Guide)

Spoken by Mike Gibbons | Discussion: No Comments »

101 Great things to do in Charlotte NC #86~84

August 29th, 2008 categories: Charlotte Lifestyle, Fun for Grown Ups, Fun for Kids

86. The Comedy Zone - Live Comedy Venue that features local, national, and international talent every weekend.

85. Richard Childress Racing Museum – The excitement of NASCAR Winston Cup racing can be found at the Richard Childress Racing Museum.

84. Pit Crew U and 5 off 5 on – Drop in on the school that is training the best pit crew in NASCAR. The school offers a basic eight-week program, Pit Crew U, followed by an optional advanced-level course, called “5 Off 5 On: Race Team Performance.” The term “5 off 5 on” refers to a tire-changer’s duty: Five lug nuts come off, five go on.

(Charlotte things to do courtesy of NC Tourist Guide)

Spoken by Mike Gibbons | Discussion: No Comments »

Southern Women’s Show 2008 | Food fashion & fun | Charlotte 9/18~9/21

August 28th, 2008 categories: Charlotte Legends, Fun for Grown Ups, Fun for Kids

Southern Shows is a Charlotte institution. I know! I went to high school with current President David Zimmerman and worked at the shows during high school for the legendary (and really classy & nice) Charlotteans Robert and Joan Zimmerman founders of the company (David’s parents). By the way the Zimmermans are also reknown for their family & friends Christmas Grog parties which were lavish enough to spawn a “teen” Christmas party with the leftovers! 

The Zimmerman family continues to put on some of the most amazing & fun lifestyle shows in the country the Charlotte Southern Women’s Show (here in Charlotte 9/18 (and eleven other cities) & the Christmas Show are awesome!

What you may not know is the Zimmermans and crew also host three of the most impressive home renovation and garden shows ~ if you are building, remodeling or planning your dream home you don’t want to miss this!

• Southern Spring Home & Garden Show  coming March 4~8 2009
• Southern Ideal Home Show  Charlotte Merchandise Mart  9/5~9/7
• Southern Kitchen & Bath Show  Charlotte Merchandise Mart  9/5~9/7

Enjoy the shows and make sure you save the date for the Christmas Show ~ the strudel is to die for!

Spoken by Mike Gibbons | Discussion: No Comments »

101 Things To Do in Charlotte North Carolina #89~87

August 2nd, 2008 categories: Charlotte Lifestyle, Fun for Grown Ups, Fun for Kids

Buying a home in Charlotte North Carolina is only the beginning! Whether you live in Charlotte or are dreaming about relocating here we think you’ll find the Charlotte Mecklenburg area has some pretty amazing things to do and some hidden gems! Rather than list all 101 Charlotte attractions we’ll give you three at a time (hint: you can find the complete list right now here courtesy of the North Carolina Tourist Guide).

We know lists can get a little boring so let’s make it fun — we’ll share our thoughts good & bad (in pink) and if you’ll let us know what you think if you go please leave a comment right here on our blog (its easy simply click on Comments above under the title)…so let’s get started…

89. Latta Equestrian Center – show grounds, lighted arenas, guided trail rides, horseback riding lessons and a tack shop at Latta Plantation Nature Preserve in northwestern Mecklenburg County. With 13 miles of equestrian trails winding through the woods, this is the perfect spot for a peaceful afternoon ride.

88. Opera Carolina – one of the largest and most successful professional opera companies in the Southeast. The company’s strong reputation is built on a commitment to excellence in its mainstage productions and acclaimed Education & Outreach programs.

87. City of Frescoes – Charlotte is called the City of Frescoes. Rare in the U.S., Charlotte is home to several sites painted by Ben Long, a NC native. Ben is world renowned and a beloved Charlotte icon — see the Bank of America lobby!

Spoken by Mike Gibbons | Discussion: No Comments »

« Previous Entries