NotefromtheEditor-in-chief
It has been an absolutely chaotic 7 months since the most extreme changes in the United States started to take hold. Every month so far has thrown LGBTQ communities within our country for a loop, whether looking at access to healthcare, rights, or just the state of being visible. It has been demoralizing and depressing on so many levels.
.... And that is why we have to continue to fight, because the fight isn’t over.
Charlotte, among a few cities nearby in the Carolinas, is lucky enough to have two sessions of these reminders each year. That there are many against the basic freedoms the USA is supposed to stand for, limiting to the people THEY find acceptable (fill in the blanks however you will). That us, our friends and community could be in danger if we do not stand up and shout from the rooftops that we are also deserving of personhood. That we matter, just like everyone should.
Pride is a protest. The varied among us built the nation that we live in, and for however much time exists till the current administration is replaced, that protest is constant. Even afterward, ever afterward, lest anyone forget. Love yourselves, love your neighbors, love your communities, and let’s all take in that we are here as a collective still standing together this Charlotte August.
Sincerely,
Jonny Golian
MOVIE MOVIE MOVIE
REVIEW REVIEW REVIEW
FEATURE FEATURE FEATURE
James Gunn’s “Superman” shows how Punk Rock A Message of Hope Can Be
By Jonathan Golian
In the world of comics where many characters become increasing revision, Superman, for the most part, stands out from the rest The since his inception, has been the representation of many of our be , , justice and kindness. There is also a level of immeasurable optimism that can be found in each screen iteration of the character that, if performed just right, can make a viewer feel a little more hopeful afterward.
Thankfully, James Gunn’s 2025 take on the character for the DCU’s new canon managed to capture that sentiment, while also fleshing out a more distinct version of the “Big Blue Boy Scout” that feels needed for today’s world
The film places Superman (David Corenswet) at a time where he is already on his way to becoming a hero, complete with scrutiny for actions taken in Metropolis and in the fictional European city of Barovia. Seeing a wavering of opinion against the figure, Tech mogul Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) attempts to make the most use of the moment in order to ruin him completely and permanently
Without a moment to spare, Luthor breaks into Superman’s home away from home, the Fortress of Solitude, only to discover a corrupted video that his parents on Krypton left him. After repairing the message, initially urging Superman to protect the citizens of the planet he would eventually land on, Luthor discovered that the missing instructions also pushed for world domination, much to everyone’s surprise, including the Man of Steel. Following the public’s backlash, Superman is detained in an alternate dimension, and it is up to Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan), the super-powered dog Krypto, and a few of the world’s other heroes to discover the truth while also saving Superman in the process.
James Gunn’s “Superman” shows how
Punk Rock A Message of Hope Can Be (Cont.)
While the movie was set around its own particular story, there were very casual moments with the characters that caught me off-guard. Whether it was the small scenes between Clark Kent (Superman’s actual identity) and Lois, or even bits from the “Justice Gang”, consisting of Green Lantern Guy Gardner (Nathan Fillion), Hawkgirl (Isabela Merced) and Mr. Terrific (Edi Gathegi), in between their action scenes, it felt less cinematic at these moments and more grounded. James Gunn has had a way of directing and writing scenes in previous films that takes some of the flair and bombast away from the otherwise extraordinary beings, humanizing them in such a way that they could fit into our world more easily.
Corenswet, in his turn as Superman, managed to keep the down-to-earth air about him for the majority of the film. Rather than his movie counterparts, Corenswet’s take on the character resembled more of the caricature Bruce Timm crafted for the Saturday morning animated series. While there were layers of story added onto the character at play, the complexities of past iterations were stripped away, leaving a man that could easily be understood by the eyes of the audience needing to invest in Gunn’s interpretation.
Hoult’s Luthor held a similar strength, being cut off from any need for deeper explanations as to his motivations other than hating Superman through his xenophobic worldview and wanting him gone. Luthor also felt like a real threat on a more realistic level, as opposed to Jesse Eisenberg’s take in 2016’s Batman v. Superman, by way of his almost singular focus and ruthless pursuit in maintaining his goals, helped in part by how much of our real-world problems with social media that amplified his schemes.
James Gunn’s “Superman” shows how Punk Rock A Message of Hope Can Be (Cont.)
Aside from the main cast, the side superpowered cast also stood out in their respective roles. Gathegi’s Mister Terrific seamlessly commanded any scene he was a part of. Not having superhuman abilities like his other members, Terrific instead is uplifted by his tech wizardry and “straight man” demeanor within the group, both of which were used for some of the movie’s more other-the-top scenes and more comedic bits.
Merced’s Hawkgirl and Fillion’s Gardner don’t shine quite as brightly, but do round out their overall group in key ways. Hawkgirl is the powerhouse of the three, and when in action, unleashes a ferocity on foes that touches on more anti-hero tendencies. Fillion’s Gardner is the comedic voice of the trio, brandishing the character’s often antagonistic sense of self-interest in humorous situations while also showing his powers off in similar manners.
By weaving in the details that encompass Superman’s origins without directly focusing in on the start of that story, Gunn was able to give us a more character-driven tale without having to start at humble beginnings for the new DCU. While there is still so much to see in this universe, 2025’s Superman gave audiences a sneak peek within the 2 hour & 10 minute runtime that is sure to bring them back to theatres for more, starting with Supergirl on June 26, 2026
~ Superman is Currently Showing in Theatres ~
Dr. Rhett's Health Corner
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Why Summer Is the Perfect Time to Catch Up on Preventive Care
Summer is known for sunshine, vacations, and a more relaxed pace but it’s also the perfect time to refocus on your health. Between school breaks, lighter work schedules, and longer days, summer offers an ideal opportunity to catch up on preventive care appointments and screenings that may have fallen to the bottom of your to-do list.
We often encourage patients to use this time of year to take control of their health. From routine physicals to important screenings and vaccinations, preventive care helps you stay ahead of potential health concerns and build a strong foundation for long-term wellness
What Is Preventive Care—and Why Does It Matter?
Preventive care refers to the routine check-ups, screenings, immunizations, and lifestyle counseling that help detect or prevent illnesses before they become serious. Many health issues—including high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and even some cancers can develop silently over time. Preventive care allows us to catch these conditions early or stop them from occurring at all.
Some of the most common types of preventive care include:
- Annual physicals and wellness visits - Blood pressure and cholesterol checks
- Blood sugar (A1C) testing - Immunizations and boosters
- Cancer screenings (such as mammograms, Pap smears, colonoscopies)
- Mental health screenings - Lifestyle and nutrition counseling
The good news? Most preventive care services are covered at no cost under insurance plans, making it easier than ever to stay on top of your health.
Why Summer Is the Perfect Time to Catch Up on Preventive Care (Cont.)
Why Summer Is an Ideal Time for Preventive Health Appointments
1.) Easier Scheduling Flexibility
Many people find it easier to take time off from work or school during the summer months. Whether you’re between semesters, using vacation time, or your calendar has more open windows, it’s often easier to book and attend appointments without the pressure of a packed schedule. If your children are home from school, summer is also a great time to knock out back-toschool physicals, immunizations, and sports clearance exams before the August and September rush hits.
2. Get Ahead Before Cold & Flu Season
Catching up on your preventive care during summer helps set you up for a healthier fall and winter. Now is the time to check in on your health before flu season begins. If you’re due for immunizations, screenings, or a medication review, taking care of it during the summer ensures your immune system and wellness plan are strong heading into colder months.
3. Mental Health Check-Ins
For many people, the slower pace and longer daylight hours in summer make it easier to reflect on mental health and self-care. If you’ve been experiencing anxiety, burnout, or depression, summer is a great time to schedule a behavioral health visit. Primary care offices often offer integrated mental health services or can refer you to a trusted provider. Being proactive about your mental well-being is just as important as physical health—and both are deeply connected.
Why Summer Is the Perfect Time to Catch Up on Preventive Care (Cont.)
4. It’s a Great Time to Build Healthy Habits
With warmer weather and more daylight, many people are already feeling more motivated to walk, exercise, and eat healthier. Summer is the ideal time to meet with your provider to set or adjust health goals.
Preventive visits often include counseling on: - Weight management - Nutrition - Smoking cessation - Sleep habits - Managing stress
If you’ve been thinking about making a change, starting that conversation now can help you create sustainable habits that last year-round.
5. Catching Up on Delayed Care
Many patients have delayed care due to travel, a busy spring, or the lingering effects of the pandemic. Summer is your reminder to check in on any missed screenings or tests. Preventive care isn’t just for emergencies—it’s the best way to avoid them in the first place.
Take Control of Your Health This Summer
If you’ve been meaning to schedule your annual physical, check on a health concern, or follow up on a previous recommendation—this is your sign to do it. At our primary care office, we offer same-day and next-day appointments, weekend hours, and care that’s centered around your lifestyle and needs. We’re here to support your health all year long—and there’s no better time than summer to start.
For More Information, consultation, and to make an appointment for you or your partner, please visit:
Featured Announcement
Upcoming CGN Events
August 1st
CGN Presents: Gaymer Gathering: CLT Pride Edition @ Tabbris - 7pm
August 9th Board Game Bash @ Tabbris - 7pm
August 22nd
CGN’s Sapphic Social @ Great Wagon Road Distillery - 7pm
August 24th
CGN’s Level Up Drag Brunch: Pokemon Edition @ Great Wagon Road Distillery - 11am
September 5th
CGN Presents: Gaymer Gathering @ Tabbris - 7pm