Charlotte, NC

Just a mile from the city limits of Charlotte — just before you get to the South Carolina line — lies a town that’s a world apart from “big-city” living.

Yet, Pineville is one of the busiest spokes in the Carolina wheel. It’s really a unique and wonderful mix of laid-back, hometown warmth (as you’ll see in some of the friendliest faces the South has to offer, and a Main Street that would rival the fictional Mayberry in charm) and successful, productive business (from Industrial Drive at the north of town to Carolina Place Mall in the middle, antique havens on Main and other new and thriving stores throughout).

The town’s most renowned for being the birthplace of our 11th President, James K. Polk (whom I had the privilege of portraying for school children in the late 1980s), one of the finest Volunteer Fire Departments in the country (headed by Chief Bill Griffin, whom I’m proud to call my nephew), and its fantastic Mall. But there’s more …

When you stroll down Main Street (you never “walk” … you stroll, ’cause you’re so busy gazing through store windows or stopping to talk with someone!), you’ll not only find some very interesting antiques, as well as a find for fully-feathered friends called The Bird Zone. Of course, after you cross Polk Street (Hwy. 521, also called South Boulevard before entering town, and Lancaster Hwy. when ya leave) and Main (Hwy. 51 before, Pineville-Matthews Rd. after), you’ll get into the Carolina Place Mall arena.

And what a mall it is, with everything you could possibly want … and at reasonable prices! I recently bought a “Carolina Mud” shirt (which actually has Carolina mud in its fabric! Unh-unh … won’t wash out, either!) there myself. It’s a multi-floor market of music, merchandise and more … without the madness

Oh … if you’re in the neighborhood, you’ve gotta take in one of the VFD’s famous “fish dinners”. These are usually fundraisers for the group, but, believe me, every fish in Pineville Park’s willing to sacrifice themselves to be part of this wing-ding!
The Park itself — off Johnston Drive (but you can also access it through Lakeview Dr. as well) isn’t as big as Freedom’s in Charlotte, but has all the ambience … and peacefulness … you’d expect!

All told, this spectacular garden of friendliness and warmth, colored with the blooming businesses throughout, makes this town a wonderful place to visit or live … and a perfect complement to Charlotte, N. C.

Hey … do ya watch a lot of TV? No, I mean the network stuff. Well, if you’re in Charlotte — and a CBS fan (and who isn’t with their programming? In fact, some viewers are saying CBS oughtta change its initials to CSI !)– you’re not just watching a station in action, but a true legend in the television world!

WBTV (channel 3) premiered as WBT radio way-back in 1940 (some old-timers say that the call-letters stood for “Watch Buick Travel”) with stars like The Carter Family (including June, who later became Mrs. Johnny Cash) and Arthur Smith (of “Guitar Boogie” and “Duelin’ Banjos” fame) joining them in their first three years of operation. A young man from Mt. Airy had applied for a job there, but owner Charles Crutchfield thought Andy Griffith’s request of $75 a week was too steep, and refused him.
In 1944, it became the first 24-hour broadcast station in the Southeast, and, a year later, became a CBS affiliate. One of its most popular programs, Carolina Hayride, became the renowned Carolina Calling and, when WBTV television finally signed on in July of 1949, it became a regular weekday-morning favorite.

Of those who remember the “golden years” of the channel, some will be quick to share stories about “Cloudy” (Clyde) McLean, weatherman for the evening news (it was said he once forecast “cloudy” skies, but, instead, it began snowing. One lady called in and said she had shoveled an inch of “cloudy” off her back porch; hence, his nickname); Fred Kirby’s Little Rascals show (in which Kirby — one of the original Sons of the Pioneers, would sing, promote the wonderful Tweetsie Railroad near Blowing Rock, and cut up with “Uncle Jim McHappy” [Jim Patterson] between Rascals film shorts), and, of course, professional wrestling.

Yes, pro wrestling was big in Charlotte, and the shows were taped at the WBTV Studios with WBTV sportscaster “Big” Bill Ward calling the action. Not only did the cards lure thousands to their TV sets and launch a number of superstar wrestlers, but, in time, Jim Crockett’s Mid-Atlantic Championship Wrestling drew a special fan: Ted Turner, who wanted to use it as the base for a weekly show called World Championship Wrestling. The rest, as they say, is history (we’ll cover the Charlotte wrestling scene in an upcoming segment).

Today — with cablecasts and webcasts as well as its normal network operation — WBTV still stands as a major influence in the broadcast-media market. Its radio counterpart, WBT, is still going strong as one of the nation’s premier talk-radio stations.

But the pleasant memories that they invoke are special ones etched in the minds — and hearts — of every native Charlottean.

I know … whenever you hear about an “arts center” in a big city, your mind conjures up a classy (sometimes stodgy) atmosphere full of Van Goghs, Monets and an occasional Picasso on the walls. Not so with Charlotte’s lively Blumenthal Performing Arts Center (accent on Performing, okay?)! This place is constantly jumping with some of the best entertainment the U. S. has to offer!

For example: From now through September, you’ll be treated to laughfests with standup comedians like the popular Sinbad, TV star D. L. Hughley, the hilarious James Gregory, Last Comic Standing’s Tim Wilson — and, as if that isn’t enough, you’ll get to be in the audience as that hilarious reality show I just mentioned comes to Charlotte’s Belk Theater (part of the Center) on October 22!

But there’s more at this downtown delight: Disney’s The Lion King will be center stage from July 12 to August 19; the famous rock group, Hot Tuna, will perform their hits on July 29, and The Rat Pack will be bringing their legendary Vegas act to Charlotte for a nearly-month-long gig, beginning September 25.

What … you want more?? No problem at Blumenthal: Presbyterian Hospital’s Family Series kicks off their season on October 2 with Ladysmith Black Mambazo, the a cappella singing group from South Africa, popularized on Paul Simon’s hit album, Graceland. They’ll be gracing the stage at the Belk Theater.

Or how about Cirque Dreams: Jungle Fantasy with the internationally-renowned dancers, contortionists, strong men and balancers performing in a Broadway-style setting with their trademark special effects? (Cirque is a favorite Las Vegas act and is best known for its performance of Beatles’ tunes called Love! … and a backdrop for an episode of CSI) They run from October 31 to November 4 at historic Ovens Auditorium.

Topping off the Hospital’s series will be the musical Cats, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, and a number of other fine shows.

All told, the Blumenthal opens a lot of eyes when folks find out it’s more than your run-of-the-mill “arts” theater. No … it’s a pure experience in the magic of downtown Charlotte.

C’mon now, ‘fess up: You know that one of your favorite places to hang out when you were young was at the library, right? I mean, all those books just opened up a wonderland of imagination for you and your friends!
Well, in today’s Charlotte-Mecklenburg Public Library, you’ll find more than you ever would’ve dreamed of back-in-the-day. It’s practically a multi-floor mall of musings and mental challenges in the form of books, CDs, DVDs, PCs and more … in fact, over one-and-a-half million system-wide (there have a network of twenty libraries within the county)!

But there’s a lot more to do at the library these days than just hunker down behind a good book. For example, there’s the Rosetta Stone language learning center, where one can learn French, German, Greek, Italian, Russian, two kinds of Spanish (Latin American and Spain) and even two kinds of English (British and American)! You learn quickly, and on your own schedule.

If you like the classics — movies, that is — then the library’s Wachovia Theater (part of the ImaginOn project, which I’ll mention in a minute) have them for you this summer. Enjoy the big screen as it comes alive with

• All About Eve (July 1),
• Guys and Dolls (July 7),
• The Barefoot Contessa (July 14),
• Suddenly, Last Summer (July 21) and
• the intriguing Sleuth (July 28).

The library also offers a phone number for those who need help with their homework (naaah … they don’t give the answers. That’s up to the student to figure out!) and a neat blog for boys, called Boys Rule! Boys Read!. In this blog, kids write in to describe a book they’ve read. The moderator, a friendly chap named “Carl,” might just reward them with a free book!

Now … I mentioned the ImaginOn project. This complex includes interactive games and exhibits, famous theater performances, classic storytimes, classes and so many other things that kids (and adults!) can enjoy. Taking up a whole city block, the structure is the first in Charlotte-Mecklenburg to be certified as “green” — meaning it’s made of recycled material rather than new (which destroys the environment). This beauty is a real “must-visit” when you’re downtown.

Of course, there are courses, classes and the like at all the library’s “satellite” branches throughout the county, as well as the great reading, viewing and listening material. But, while you’re checking out the downtown area (like Discovery Place and the Nature Museum, you’ve gotta take in the wonder and amazing beauty that is … the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Public Library, Main Branch.

Over the past few weeks, we’ve been visiting some great attactions here in Charlotte — and, naturally, we’re gonna continue showing you the luminescent jewels in the crown of the Queen City.
But, as with every populated area in the nation, the QC has those who are in need. Whether they’re homeless, facing serious financial crises, are addicted to drugs or alcohol, or suffer from devastating depression, they’re here just as they are in your area.

Now, some areas have been known to shy away from these people and treat them as though they’re lepers. But that’s NOT the case with Charlotte! This wonderful city opens its arms widely to help those in need, and then does something amazing: It follows up on those same people, assuring that they have the best possible re-growth.

Examples of these are at your fingertips: The Uptown Shelter, for example, not only offers every homeless man a place to sleep but also some great programs to help him gain employment, get medical assistance, with Federal/State programs (if applicable), psychiatric and/or spiritual help and more.

Crisis Assistance Ministries offers assistance and counceling in the event of eviction notices and overdue bills as well as referrals for young mothers seeking help with their children, clothing, and much more.

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Mental Health Association offers a 24-hour crisis line in the event someone’s depressed and needs to “talk with someone,” or wants input as to how to handle a given situation. From talking down potential suicides at 2 AM to offering in-house guidance and counsel during the daytime, they’re experts at giving hope!

If the bottle or street meds are a problem, the victim can get help through two angels: Rebound for men and The Dove’s Nest for women. Both part of the Charlotte Rescue Mission, their programs for recovery are second-to-none!

Then, of course, you have other civic organizations and some of the most God-blessed, benevolent churches in America — all willing to help to the extent they can afford.

Now, each noun (person, place or thing) that we’ve been writing about in this journalistic tour has an historic, educational or delightful meaning in the daily paragraphs of Charlotte. But, of them all, the most heart-warming — the most meaningful — can be found in the hearts of the caring, loving and empathetic people who are proud to be called Charlotteans.

And, as the Book says, “the heart, no one can describe.”

Have you ever wondered what you looks like inside? Maybe, if you’re a runner or exercise enthusiast, you’d like to know how your efforts affect your body.

With a special exhibit that began June 13, Discovery Place offers visitors the chance to view the human body in an amazingly-different manner. Called Body Worlds: The Anatomical Exhibition of Real Human Bodies, the exhibit by anatomist Gunther von Hagens features real human bodies that are preserved by a process called plastination. These bodies, in various everyday and athletic poses, show the muscular and skeletal structures as they react to a given activity. While most think of it as being a bit “weird” or “grotesque” upon hearing about the exhibit, a single visit convinces the skeptic that, in fact, this is an interesting study because it offers a unique opportunity to see the human body like never before.

Its aim is to educate the public about the care of the body by showing the effects of both poor and good health as well as lifestyle choices — and to do so by showing the natural musculature, bone structure and movement effects of the human body.

The anatomist who created the exhibit has already been under fire for producing an autopsy on British TV in 2002 as well as a highly controversial depiction of Christ’s crucifixion, using a body preserved by the same plastinetic method. Still, his exhibit has aroused the curiosity of thousands of visitors worldwide, and has broadened the understanding of human anatomy.

But if this type of “natural” isn’t your cup of tea, there’s always Mother Nature’s exciting offerings. They’re found in the popular Nature Museum, near Freedom Park (see earlier post) and part of the Discovery Place project. Here — among the live, active bodies of healthy rangers and patrons, one can discover the beauty of the outdoors in a serene setting that’s flavored with live-animal exhibits, a butterfly pavilion (and it’s amazing how lovely and large those rascals can become!), hands-on exhibits, a puppet show and, of course, a wonderful nature trail! In fact, kids can enroll in the “Creature Feature Kid’s Club”, which meets once a month and features crafts, storytelling, puppet shows and refreshments. It’s no wonder this place has been a favorite attraction for thousands of area children over the years.

Upcoming events include a Birds of Prey Day on July 21, when kids can learn about the various “big birds” like falcons and hawks, and Petspalooza on August 18, when the Museum teams up with local humane shelters to teach children how to choose the right family pet as well as how to care for them.

So, whether you’re a high-school biology major, a rambunctuous, animal-loving kid needing something to do or just simply “curious”, the Discovery Place duo can provide some awesome sights and sounds just for you!

If you’re not from around these parts, c’mon down and sit a spell with us. Our door’s always open …

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With the 2007 hurricane season in full swing, it evokes memories of a time not-so-long-ago:

Throughout Thursday, September 21, 1989, the local world was watching for weather reports about the category-5 Hurricane Hugo which had viciously swept through the south Atlantic and was heading straight for us. Later that night, after putting my young sons to bed, gathering candles and putting batteries in a portable radio , I fell asleep on the living-room couch.
Around five in the morning, I was awakening from a dream that had me in front of a large, roaring stadium crowd. It was then that it struck me: the roaring wasn’t from a dream; it was from the wind hitting my front door and windows! The hurricane had hit Charlotte.

A few minutes later, Morrow Avenue’s transformer blew and our power went off. I immediately lit one of the candles and huddled with my youngest son (who had been awakened by the wind; my oldest stayed in bed to “be safe”) around the radio. The reports were scary, but the WSOC Radio news team was handling them in a calm and empathetic manner.

At around 10 AM — after the storm passed — we slowly emerged from the house. Tree limbs and brush obliterated the street, our chimney was partly destroyed, and a pear tree in the back yard kept a white oak from crashing down on the house. In the front, though — the house faced west — our porch chairs hadn’t moved an inch! The storm was forging a straight path without doubling back. Later it was determined that, if it had, much of Pineville would have been seriously damaged!

After assessing the wrath of nature, the town-wide cleanup began. The town had already planned to replace its transformers and had them ready to install, so workers began the job later in the day. Almost within hours, we had power back on — including at gas stations, convenience and grocery stores. When that news broke, folks from a fifty-mile radius came to our little town for their needs.

Back at my job at nearby Home Quarters Warehouse — now sitting in about two feet of water — the boarded windows remained intact, but, in time, we discovered there was roughly a million dollars’ worth of inventory damage. Among the employees sloshing through the water to inspect the building, there was a Fort Mill lady who had a job interview lined up for that morning; and, though both Highways 51 and 521 into Pineville were considered impassible, she’d dodged the fallen limbs, brush and trees and made it in time for the scheduled appointment. The manager, totally floored by her determination, hired her on the spot! No interview; just “come in when we re-open.” This charming Southern lady stayed with the company until the store closed six years later.

But the most amazing story borne from the hurricane actually came out of Harrisburg, just north of Charlotte. On Thursday, a man had taken his children to Carowinds (see previous article), which was south of the Queen City. In the back of his pickup truck was a very pregnant mama cat. He covered her with a small blanket and told the kids she’d be all right until they returned. After a day of enjoying themselves, they returned — to find only newborn kittens! The mama cat couldn’t be found anywhere.
So, after a futile search, he loaded up the kids and kittens and drove back to Harrisburg. Overnight and through the force of the next morning’s hurricane, they bottle-fed the babies and kept them warm and dry. Obviously, they were orphans and needed their help.
When the storm had passed they, like so many others, went out to cut trees, repair roofs and clear brush. This continued into Saturday, when, out of one of the bushes …

staggered the mama cat! She was wet and bloody, worn and shivering, but she came all the way through the worst of the storm to be with her babies! The story hit the newswire, was reported on local TV channels, and brought tears of joy to thousands of weary residents.

And so it was … a day that lived in local infamy, yet brought about a closeness as friend helped friend, neighbor assisted neighbor, and, through the determination of both a Fort Mill superstar and an amazing mama cat, a message of hope, devotion and love.

Charlotte has always had so much to be proud of, but the new Light Rail Transit (LRT) system adds a new dimension in travel through — and another jewel to the crown of — the Queen City. Dedicated this week, the newly-completed system, called Lynx (and why not? After all, it’s in the home of the Bobcats, Panthers and the Charlotte Area Transit System — or CATS) brings downtowners to the southern shops of the city.

A showcase station on Scaleybark Rd. and South Blvd. educates a lot of riders on the “hows, wheres and whats” of the 9.7-mile, dual-track system. The LRT then proceeds to Tyvola Road — the hub of south Charlotte’s shopping district — and on to the I-285 area north of Pineville.

The system is the first part of what Charlotte calls its “2025 plan”, which calls for developing eight different corridors for LRT travel by that year. To finance the present “Southern Corridor” project, residents have seen an increase in sales taxes. Though the percentage is small, the increase is still not popular with most Charlotteans. But Mayor Pat McCrory — presently seeking an unprecedented eighth term — says that, if the increase was defeated, the only recourse would be to increase property taxes. Of course, this would be more unpopular, so the sales-tax increase stands.

The trains will operate from 5 AM to 1 AM, seven days a week. They’ll have low floors to accommodate anyone who has a hard time boarding (like moms with baby carriages, folks with walkers, etc.), room for 236 passengers and be able to reach speeds up to 65 miles per hour.

While bus ridership isn’t generating the revenue that city fathers had hoped, there’s much (and justified) anticipation in the success of the new Light Rail Transit. Having ridden one myself, I can tell you it’s relaxing, fast, and interesting as all get-out! So do yourself a favor: park the car (be sure you lock it, okay?) and give the LRT a whirl. Guaranteed that, once you get the hang of it, you’ll want to take it more and more often!

Whether you are or once were a Charlottean (but face it — you’re always going to be a Tarheel! Ask any UNC fan!), you know the liquid refreshment held in every ice-cold can of Cheerwine™. The effervescent cherry soda, found in local supermarkets like Harris-Teeter and Food Lion and in just about every soda machine, has one unique characteristic: you can’t find it anywhere but in the Carolinas! And Charlotte, being the hub of the North-South Carolina connection, is where most of it’s happily consumed! Its taste is one that lingers long after the drink is finished but, unlike many other brands, always remains pleasant! An absolute area treasure, its makers have been inundated with requests to market it in other areas. Fiercely devoted to the tradition and tastes of our area — and to our pleasure — they’ve constantly refused.

Speaking of tastes: a delicacy that’s known throughout the South, and especially in the Mecklenburg County area is the delicious but tangy wild grape we call muscadines. These grow exceptionally well in the fertile soil of farm areas surrounding Charlotte, and are harvested to make jellies, preserves and wine (sometimes called scuppernong, especially by Yankees). I was introduced to them at my Aunt Kate’s farm off York Road in Southwest Charlotte, and can tell you they’re (a) filling, (b) a bit “tart” or tangy and (b) more chewable than regular grapes. A word of advice here: when picking muscadines, remember to wear something that’s fairly stain-resistant; if you get the juice on your good clothes, it can be a bit hard to get out …

While we’re on the subject of “things hard to get out”: the Queen City is also a favorite breeding ground for the amazingly-tough ivy-like vine known as kudzu. This plant, originally imported by Admiral Perry as a byproduct of an 1850s voyage to China, was to be used to solve early irrigation problems. But the plant became more of a menace as it veritably covered everything in its path, and was virtually indestructable. When Highway 521 (South Boulevard) toward Pineville was cleared to make way for new car dealerships, workers discovered that only by uprooting the plants could you actually destroy them.
They also had an eerie side-effect: If the atmosphere is still and there’s no outside noise (such as cars, birds, etc.), and one patiently stands by a stand of kudzu for awhile, he can actually hear it grow!! I tried that experiment personally at the Highway 521 stand in mid-1990 (this was prior to its clearing) and found it to be absolutely true.
This unusual ivy was popularized nationally in the comic strip Kudzu (by Charlotte Observer cartoonist Doug Marlette) in the late 1980s and, stangely enough, is also an ingredient in certain Southern recipes.

So, along with the sights, sounds and savories of the city and beyond, Charlotte presents visitors and residents alike with unique products that shine like jewels in the crown of this Queen City.

If you’re not here already, come on down this summer, kick off your shoes, sit a spell and enjoy! Our door’s always open …

Okay, let’s see a quick show of hands: How many of you readers are dog or cat lovers? (Listen … raise the hand that’s not holding the mouse. Don’t want you to lose this page, y’know!) Well, if you really want the best for your bonebastic bowwow or flea-flickin’ feline, then Charlotte’s certainly the place to find it.

From some of the nation’s most thorough groomers, your four-footer will receive the best of cleaning, cutting, combing and “pet”icures — and at some very wallet-friendly prices! Once Fido or Fluffy (or whatever your forever friend’s called) is all dolled up (oh, all right: for macho pets, it’s “made ruggedly handsome”), it’s time to take him/her to the Mall of Meow and Best Buy of Barks, PetSmart. If they don’t have what you want for your pet, face it: it ain’t been made yet!

Then, whether they’ve gotten a new chew-toy or leash, you’ll want to take your canine buddy out for a walk (I don’t recommend walking cats because, quite frankly, they can be too skittish; also, their necks aren’t as strong as dogs’, so straining against a leash could cause windpipe damage!). The best and most pet-friendly walkaround is at Freedom Park (see my earlier entry for more info). Still, the #1 rule is to keep a close and caring eye out for your pet, as well as others.

Now, if you have a meeting or outing of a kind that doesn’t allow pets, and don’t want to leave your dog at home, consider leaving him/her at a resort (yes, you heard me right!) like the Club K-9! It’s a great pet-daycare, and even has an overnight camp! And don’t worry about your bowwow being bound in some cage or whatever; these folks believe in “cageless boarding” and use “doggie suites” instead of actual kennels! This is a favorite among the bark crowd.

And, just like our human children, our furry ones have their share of illness or injury. Whether your cat’s nipped, your pup’s pooped or even if you’ve got a hoarse horse, a good vet is the best ticket to your pet’s return-trip to health. The area has over a hundred competent and compassionate veterinarians ready to help your forever friends whenever they’re down. If you don’t have one, get a recommendation from a pet-blessed friend; though your pet may be in good health now, it’s good to have a vet available and familiar with your animal brood.

Of course, Charlotte, as any city or town, also has its share of stray animals. But, whether they’re runaways or heartlessly kicked out by former owners, there’s still a place for them in this thriving community. You see, the Queen City has rescue groups for strays of every kind (for example, Pom Posse for Pomeranians and Chihuahuas and Golden Retriever Rescue Club. But if you’re looking for a different breed, they’ll be glad to refer you). These are available for adoption, and can provide the happiness and love for any family (or person) that will give them a little TLC in return.

While the QC is a pet-friendly city, with so many services, stores and vets for your furry, four-legged friends, it’s also one that stresses logic at this time of year.
First, it’s wise to have your cat or dog spayed or neutered, to prevent loads of mews and yips that may go untended.
Secondly, make sure your pets have plenty of water — especially if they’re “outside” rascals like Labs, Dobies or Terriers; remember, it’s gonna be a hot summer.
Thirdly, take some time to give your pets plenty of the three “p’s”: petting, praising and playtime.
Along with the proper care, supplies, attention and training, your Tarheel pets will be among the happiest, most gratifying and healthiest in the nation.

If you’ve never visited Charlotte (and consider this an open invitation if you haven’t!), chances are that you’ve experienced us in one form or another, anyway. You see, not only is the Queen City a fantastic balance of big business and small town; you’ve also probably used at least one of our fine products no matter where you are! For example:

Let’s say you want to come visit us. But, before you left, you had to buy an air compressor for your home or business; one of the biggest names in the business, Patton’s, is based on South Boulevard here. You might have shopped for one at Lowe’s, which claims Charlotte as its home, too!

Of course, the first thing you’ll need, after packing, is to withdraw some money for gas and stops along the way. But, because you had to get a new muffler from Meineke (with home office located here) and pay your cable bill to Time-Warner (its headquarters are here as well), you stop by the bank to check your account. If your account’s with the biggest and (some say) best bank in the nation, you might want to visit Bank of America’s corporate offices, which are located here, right on the Square.

And, while you’re on the road, it’s a safe bet that you’re riding on Goodrich tires. Their headquarters aren’t far from downtown Charlotte.

Getting hungry? On the way here, maybe you’ll pick up one of those little six-pack of crackers they sell at convenience stores — those with “Lance” emblazoned aross the top of the pack — to nibble on while driving. The Lance offices and main plant are just a little less than a mile from Charlotte, near Pineville (and, believe me, when you drive by the plant, your senses are going to be smiling with the aroma of freshly-cooked peanuts!).

If you need something extra for the trip, you might run into a Family Dollar for what you need rather than waste time searching out a big department store.. Also headquartered in Charlotte, these stores can be found throughout America.

If you eat at a Bojangle’s, or applied for or gotten a loan from Lending Tree, you’re dealing with a business headquartered here. If you’ve taken an elevator to arrive at a vertical destination, you’ve probably heard calming music piped into the elevator — a music commonly known as “Muzak” or “elevator music”. The Muzac madness is also stationed here in Charlotte.

So, just about everywhere you turn in this country, you’re going to find something either proudly made or based in this city. Our businesses continuously provide some of the very best services this country can offer. They’re not hard to find, either; all you’ve got to do is look around you … and enjoy!

Because Charlotte is, in some manner, always within reach!

This summer, there are going to be thousands of youngsters who’ll quickly become bored if they don’t have something exciting to do. One of the most fun-filled places to quench their activity thirst is the 105-acre water and amusement world of Carowinds, which straddles the state line just southwest of Charlotte. Since opening in 1973, it’s satisfied millions of visitors with a wide assortment of rides (including thrilling roller-coasters), live shows, concerts starring top artists, water activities, games and more.

With the ambience of an old-time county fair (in fact, they have an attraction area with that name), it draws visitors from around the world as a pleasant alternative to the “daily grind” — especially during hot summer days, when kids are on vacation from their schools.

The Park is easy to find: One you’re in town, just get on Interstate 77 South and take the ramp off Exit 90. Then simply turn right onto the ramp leading to Carowinds Blvd.

Another favorite among kids and parents alike is the Zuma Fun Station, an activity-filled wonderland near Pineville (only about a mile south of Charlotte on Highway 521). Formerly known as Celebration Station, it’s chock-full of batting cages, bumper boats, go-karts, kiddie rides, video games — just about everything you’d need to pacify even the squirmiest of children! And, parents, it’s easy on the wallet (and feet), so you can breathe easy! This is one park that you’ll wanna visit frequently during the summer!

A perennial attraction is the magnificent Freedom Park, a 98-acre picture of serenity close to downtown Charlotte. Along with some of the most beautiful terrain the city has to offer, the park has four baseball fields, a number of batting cages, tennis, basketball and volleyball courts, picnic shelters, an indoor shelter, concession stands, a hiking trail, an amphitheatre and, of course, a play ground.. There’s even a 1920s steam locomotive stationed near the playground that kids can explore. For those who enjoy relaxing behind a fishing pole, the lake’s open and well-stocked.

Not only does this historic (and free) attraction lure walkers, bikers, skateboarders, inline wheelers and, yes, pet enthusiasts who want to take Fido on a peaceful stroll; it also hosts the annual Festival In The Park, a wonderful display of sights and sounds as the best of local artists display their work amidst Freedom Park’s tranquil setting. Music abounds with performances from up-and-coming singers and finely-tuned orchestral groups alike. The event is a “must-see” for anyone visiting the area in September.

There’s so much more that can be enjoyed in and around Charlotte during the summer, and this particular post can’t really capture them all in the space provided: Kings Mountain State Park (the area of a pivotal Revolutionary War battle); Discovery Place (a hands-on adventure through the world of science); James K. Polk Park (in Pineville; the birthplace of the 11th President of the United States); and, of course, the wonderful malls (including multi-leveled Carolina Place).

And, if that’s not enough, there are fantastic events constantly scheduled at the Bank of America Stadium, an amazing Raptor Center full of winged wonders and feathered friends (located in Huntersville, just north of Charlotte) and, of course, Lowe’s Motor Speedway — home of NASCAR.

So make this summer a memorable — and fun-filled — one by taking in some of our favorite fun spots! You need the break from the everyday routine, anyway, right? Charlotte’s the one spot that honestly says: Give us a little of your free time, and we’ll give you an exciting world you’ll never forget!

About halfway between the Smoky Mountains and Atlantic shores of North Carolina lies a world that offers an amazing mix of beauty, music, and good old down-home friendliness.

Though Charlotte is a major spoke in the wheel of big business (Bank of America, Family Dollar, Belk Stores and Wachovia), its small-town charm is evident everywhere. From tree-lined neighborhoods and “mom-and-pop” stores that are always within reach to the sheer natural beauty of Freedom Park, there’s an undeniable contentment here. Whether you need someone to fix your bank account or lawn mower, talk big business or just “shoot the breeze” with, you’ll certainly find what you’re looking for among its people.

There’s always something you can do to be involved in the Queen City, whether it’s with a special event, civic organization or arts guild. You certainly don’t have to go far to find good artwork in Charlotte — sometimes, it finds you: Take the heart of the city as an example: The junction of Trade and Tryon Streets in the downtown district, affectionately known to residents as “The Square”, has statues of its settlers adorning each corner. In fact, the first blocks of West Trade Street are brightened with sculptures by local artists.

The sweet strains of music have always played an important role in the Charlotte attitude, and many of the world’s greatest performers, from symphony orchestras to Reba McIntyre and Paul McCartney have drawn sell-out audiences. Throughout the city, various seasonal festivals such as “Yiasou!” and “Festival In The Park” spotlight talented local acts, and its many clubs and soundstages come alive with the best of every musical genre.

The city lays claim to some famous faces, perhaps none more so than the noted evangelist, Rev. Billy Graham. Actors such as Berlinda Tolbert (”Jeffersons”), blues singers like Wilbert Harrison (”Kansas City”) and Sunshine Anderson, the great African-American artist Romare Bearden, and the creator of the famous “guitar boogie”, Arthur Smith, have also proudly called Charlotte “home.” Even the eleventh President of the United States, James K. Polk, was born just over a mile from the city limit, in the small town of Pineville — the quaint, peaceful “antique capital of the South”.

If you like sports, Charlotte’s definitely the place to be, with the NFL’s mighty Carolina Panthers, the NBA’s Charlotte Bobcats and, of course, NASCAR, drawing fans in from across the nation. Diehard pro wrestling fans should already know that the WCW (now absorbed by the WWE) was born from Jim Crockett’s Mid-Atlantic Wrestling organization on Briabend Drive in south Charlotte.

With each entry of this blog, you’ll come to know the faces, places and events that have made (and are still making) Charlotte one of the most comfortably liveable cities in America. So be sure to bookmark this site … you’re in for a really refreshing experience!