August 2011 "The Home Issue"

08.11

CULTURE

the home issue

DINING ENTERTAINMENT

FASHION

FITNESS

LIFESTYLE

NIGHTLIFE

2011

KICKOFF AT THE WING

Charlotte EpiCentre • 704-716-WING • S. Charlotte Ayrsley Town Blvd. • 980-297-7000

Get Ready Charlotte!

September 19-24, 2011 5 Days Of Fashion & Style 5 Days To Remember

CharlotteFashionWeek.com CharlotteSeenFashionWeek.com

Tickets and VIP Tables selling now at CharlotteFashionWeek.com Monday, September 19 THE KICKOFF The Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte 210 E. Trade St. Complimentary Admission 6:30pm

Tuesday, September 20

SOIREE OF STYLE Showcasing fashion’s most stylish years Del Frisco’s - 4725 Piedmont Row Dr. Complimentary Admission 6:30pm

Wednesday, September 21 MEET THE DESIGNERS Vivace - 1100 Metropolitan Ave. Complimentary Admission 6:30pm

Thursday, September 22

PEOPLES CHOICE AWARDS Runway Show Gateway Village - 800 W. Trade St. 7:00pm, VIP Hour - 6:00pm After Party at Vapiano 201 S. Tryon St.

Friday, September 23

THE RE-MODEL SHOW Runway Show Gateway Village - 800 W. Trade St. 7:00pm, VIP Hour - 6:00pm After Party at Butter NC Music Factory 1000 Seaboard St.

Saturday, September 24

MILES OF IMPACT Runway Show Gateway Village - 800 W. Trade St. 7:00pm, VIP Hour - 6:00pm After Party at Butter NC Music Factory 1000 Seaboard St.

When you’re buying your home you are also buying your lifestyle -

so put experience to work for you.

When you start your search for the perfect “home” you aren’t just looking at property, but neighborhoods and surroundings as well. Your life isn’t lived just inside just four walls! I help my clients find the right fit and their lifestyle - whether it’s a luxury high-rise condo, a charming historic district bungalow, a townhome along the light-rail line or a loft in the Art’s District.

I’ve lived my whole life in and around Uptown Charlotte - no one knows these neighborhoods and areas better - so let me put my 19+ years experience in Charlotte real estate to work for you.

Call now and we’ll take a tour of Charlotte’s great urban neighborhoods and start the process of finding your perfect home or condo.

Scott Lindsley 704.906.1645 www.SouthendCharlotte.com | www.LiveInWilmore.com | www.NewCondosCharlotte.com

publisher’s note It’s really hard to believe it was close to 100 degrees last week, yet in just a couple more weeks it will already be time for the NFL to kick off their pre-season. I thought at first I was going to have to say hopefully, but finally, the lockout is over.

This month’s issue is our annual “Home Issue.”

It’s packed full of useful information, so if you’re ready to make a move, we have you covered.

We had the pleasure of sitting down with some of the agents from The McDevitt Agency and they gave us the ins and outs of finding a new place to live in the Charlotte area. Whether you’re looking for a loft, condominium, or townhome, we have the 411 for you. We also offer some insight on how to decorate your new pad with some fancy artwork, or places to pick up those knick knacks you must have.

August is packed full of fun events, and hopefully it will start getting cooler soon. We will have our Extreme Tailgate Party for the Panthers’ second pre-season game on Thursday, September 1. Then on the following Saturday, we will have a huge tailgate party for the USC vs. ECU game, which will kick off at 2 p.m. More information about these events and many more can be found at ElevateLifestyle.com.

Last but not least, Elevate Lifestyle has partnered up with 704Events.com again to host the Second Annual Bites and Brews Restaurant Week. It will kick off Thursday, August 18 and run until Sunday, August 28. There will be casual dining restaurants throughout the city featuring a special menu for two that will include a bucket of beers all for between $25 and $35. More details can be found at CharlotteBitesandBrews.com.

Have a great month, Steve Caldwell

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e

team

Publisher: Steve Caldwell Editor: Edy Hinson Creative Director: Greg Smith Design and Production: Greenspon Advertising Fashionable Living Cover and Photo Spread Photography: Photography: Jim Merrill Photography, JMTFoto.com Models: Courtney Hope Turner, 2011 Miss South Carolina, USA Directions USA Megan Pinckney, 2010 Miss Teen South Carolina and 2011Greater IRMO Makeup and Hair: Kymm McLean, Who’s The Fairest, WhosTheFairest.biz Wardrobe, Shoes and Accessories: Bevello Boutique, Bevello.com Location: Celadon, CeladonLuxury.com Special Thanks To The McDevitt Agency, Sophia Burrows

Advertising, Sponsorship, Website Sales, and General Advertising Sales Information: Brad Cheek | Stephanie Bennett | Steve Caldwell Contributing Editors: Culture Editor: Chrystal Rose | Dining Editor: Nikki Wilson Entertainment Editor: Denise Gregory | Fashion Editor: Debra Kennedy Fitness Editor: Monique Douglas | Nightlife Editor: Sean Flynn Contributing Writers: Elizabeth Solitario | Julie Tache, Homes With Cachet Korrynn Baltzersen | Louise Albano-Hurley | Scott Lindsley, My TownHome Event, Article and Website Photography: Chip Auger | Eun Park | Lazyday.com | Steve Caldwell | Trip Bye Interns: Elizabeth Solitario | Jacob Brooks

CONTENTS 24 28 32 36 40

Got Art? Let’s Talk Dough The Toast Of The Town Loze Your Excuse Endless Options!

THE HOME ISSUE

48 58 64 66 72 76 100 104 108

Fashionable Living Life At The Top Knick Knacks Studio6 NODA SKYE Condominiums The Madison Distressed Properties Who Has A Pool?

Timberstone Homes

Interviews with The McDevitt Agency

80 82 84 86 88 90 92 94 96 98

Pat Deely Sophia Burrowes Evan Sheets Chris Bonnefoux Lana Laws John Ogburn Randy Cernohorsky John Geuss Scott Russo Shane McDevitt

East carolina vs. south carolina saturday, sEptEmbEr 3rd - 2pm Benefiting Back to Life foundation 2 BLockS fRoM Bank of aMeRica StadiuM open to the puBLic - fuLL SeRvice caSh BaR fLip cup | BeeR pong | MuSic coRnhoLe touRnaMent – Big pRiZe foR the WinneRS Sign up noW at eLevateLifeStyLe.coM

culture

galleries Charlotte’s neighborhoods characterize it as a unique city. From NoDA to Elizabeth and Plaza Midwood to South Park, there is no one place that defines our city. Rather, we are an amalgamation of cultures, rich in history and modern in style. We see this in our shops, our restaurants, and perhaps mostly in our galleries. Oftentimes art is the reflection of a person, while a person is the reflection of a locale. We see Charlotte reflected in what national artists we bring to the city, and in the opportunities local artists have to create their own works.

Whether or not you are new to Charlotte and the art scene, RedSky Gallery, with two locations -- one on Elizabeth Avenue and the other downtown in the Epicentre -- offers unique consumer art, handcrafted both locally and nationally. The gallery is located in one of the older neighborhoods of Charlotte, with a second location in perhaps the city’s newest venue downtown. Modern spaces with sleek wood flooring house pieces by more than 500 regional and national artists. Event space and Corporate Art Services are also available through the gallery. RedSky’s current anniversary exhibition, Six Women, Six Perspectives, running through the end of August, features a small selection of glassworks, oil and pastel paintings, and mixed media photography.

If you’re looking for a relaxed place to hang out and see what Charlotte artisans have created, check out FABO on Selwyn Avenue. Short for Fabulous Art Buying Opportunity, this coffee shop caters to all crowds. Come in early for a cappuccino and raspberry and cream cheese croissant, or stop by on a Friday or Saturday evening when FABO is open late and sip some wine or relax with a beer. A red sofa is available to “rent out” as meeting space while tables and seating arrangements are tucked into various alcoves of art. Paintings, note cards, mugs, even handcrafted chocolates and locally grown honey are available for purchase at this eclectic café.

Charlotte’s newest combination bar and art gallery recently opened on Central Avenue in the heart of Plaza Midwood. Open until 2 a.m. Tuesday through Saturday, Twenty-Two offers “art, booze, music and schmooze” to a crowd that sees more hipsters and young artists than anywhere else in Charlotte. Exhibits run for approximately a month at a time, with an opening reception during the first week where you can wander in, have a glass of wine, and see the photography, painting, and mixed media art of Charlotte’s young talent.

Also in Plaza Midwood, off Central Avenue, is a BYOB wine bar and gallery, The Wine Palette, opened by sisters Monika Shah and Neha Negandhi as a “sip and paint” café. Come pop the top on your beer or uncork your wine and enjoy a painting lesson given by one of five national and international artists employed by The Wine Palette. For novices, those looking to hone their skills and everyone in between, this dual wine bar and hands-on gallery is a great place to sit, enjoy good company and learn something about art. The Wine Palette also hosts a summer kids camp as well as private parties and events.

Opened in 2003, Green Rice Gallery on 36th Street in NoDA caters entirely to local artists and, like Red Sky, has an extensive collection of art available for “first time buyers as well as art collectors.” The space offers 12 artists studios and a 2,400 square-foot event room, available for everything from business functions to wedding receptions; and an art class for everyone, whether a child, a student, or an adult curious about the creative process. It welcomes and encourages the possibilities of imagination and creation. The gallery is closed during the beginning of the week, but come in between Thursday and Sunday for the opportunity to see local artists at work, try your hand at a bit of artistry, or simply browse, among many other things, the paintings, pottery, and jewelry of more than 30 Charlotte-based artists.

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Charlotte’s newest gallery, The New Gallery of Modern Art, which just opened this August, presents to Charlotteans an upscale version of consumer art.

Opening with Butterfly World, a Damien Hirst and Hunt Slonem exhibit, the gallery caters to those with an appreciation of fine, modern and contemporary art. Located on S. Tryon Street, the exhibit runs from September 23 to October 31. The gallery caters to corporate and private clients, both those already immersed in art collecting and those just entering into the trade. With a significant privately held collection of Dali’s and Matisse’s, Miro’s and Chagall’s, among many others, the gallery offers museum quality displays with experienced advice on art purchasing. Catering to high-end art and located near Uptown’s burgeoning museum complex, The New Gallery of Modern Art is a perfect addition to Charlotte’s expanding cultural scene.

Whether long established or new, small or large, with a regional or national focus, galleries abound in Charlotte. Walk through any neighborhood in our city and you are sure to find one reflecting its inhabitants, the culture of its place.

RedSky Gallery The EpiCentre 210 E. Trade St., Suite B-134 Charlotte, NC 28202 www.RedSkyGallery.com

FABO 2820 Selwyn Ave., Suite 180 Charlotte, NC 28209 704.900.2430 www.FaboCafe.com

Green Rice Gallery 451 E. 36th St. Charlotte, NC 28205 704.344.0300 www.Green-Rice.com

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The New Gallery of Modern Art 435 S. Tryon St., Suite 110 Charlotte, NC 704.373.1464 itoshkova@hotmail.com

Twenty-Two LLC 1500 Central Ave. Charlotte, NC 28205-5014 704.334.0122 www.GalleryTwentyTwo.com

The Wine Palette 1308-C The Plaza 704.334.3111 Charlotte, NC 28205 www.TheWinePaletteNC.com

Louise Albano-Hurley

CHARLOTTE’S LARGEST

SATURDAY, OCT. 8 • 9 AM • MATTHEWS Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. • 10404 E. Independence Blvd.

proceeds benefit

presented by

ZXFITNESS.COM/BIGZUMBA

dining

let’s talk dough What’s your pizza pleasure? Are you a veggie lover who wants nothing but greens? Or are you a meat lover, who wants so much ham, sausage and bacon on your pie that you’re pretty sure PETA personally hates you? Whatever your stomach calls for, rest assured that Charlotte has you covered, no matter what part of the city you’re in. Check out a few of my favorites, as well as some of the signature dishes that made these pizza parlors the hot spots they are today. Whether you’re in Elizabeth, Uptown or Ayrsley, tasty slices are right around the corner.

Libretto’s Pizzeria Although I love a pie piled with pepperoni, sausage, banana peppers and lots of other tasty ingredients, sometimes all I want is just a flavorful, cheesy slice that will hit the spot. Whenever I venture into Libretto’s, I don’t even look at the menu. All I want is the Pizza Bianca. This classic white pizza is simply crafted with mozzarella, ricotta, Romano and a dash of herbs on top. When I first ordered the Bianca, I thought I’d miss my toppings, but one bite and you’ll see why Libretto’s stays busy at the EpiCentre location, serving up hot slices until 4 a.m. on the weekends. And since the first Libretto’s calls Manhattan home, you know the famous New York touch is baked into every pie.

LibrettosPizzeria.com 210 East Trade Street in the Epicentre | 704.971.9088 15205 John J. Delaney Drive | 704.714.1442

Pie Town When somebody asks you what your favorite pizza toppings are, the usual answers probably expected are pepperoni, peppers, maybe even pineapple. But what about eggs, cracked right on top and served over easy with bacon? Take a stroll down Trade Street and visit Pie Town, who’ll serve up a dozen different creations, including the bacon-and-egg pizza.

Topped with tomatoes, arugula, guanciale bacon and more, this pizza is presented with eggs baked right on top. Slice it up to break the yolk and taste the flavor combination. And no detail is spared at Pie Town. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ask for the 12-grain crust or try one of the white pies and skip the marinara.

DineAtPietown.com 710 West Trade Street | 704.379.7555 Stoney’s Wood-Fired Pizza Making a home in Ayrsley, the first Stoney’s in Charlotte opened its doors this past May and is already gaining quite the fan following. And with divine wood-fired dishes like the I Love Meat pizza, it’s no surprise. Topped with applewood bacon, sausage, pepperoni, beef and handcrafted tomato sauce, this pizza is the sole reason why I could never be a vegetarian.

Stop by anytime as the pizza is great and the prices are even better.

Stoney’s is always running a special and check out their Facebook page for plenty of free offers. South Charlotte never tasted so good.

StoneysOnline.com 2215 Ayrsley Town Boulevard | 704.697.1999 Mellow Mushroom After a two-year absence from the Queen City, Mellow Mushroom opened a brand-new location in Myers Park this year, bringing with it all the signature favorites we came to know and love. While Mellow Mushroom won my heart long ago, serving up flaky crusts topped with red potatoes, sour cream and pesto swirls, my newest love is the Philosopher’s Pie. Not only does Mellow top this pizza with grilled steak, portabella mushrooms, artichoke hearts, olives and three cheeses, but they also take the time to brush the crust with olive oil and garlic, to give it that little something extra.

Oh, Mellow Mushroom, how I’ve missed you.

MellowMushroom.com 2820 Selwyn Avenue | 704.966.7499

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FUEL Pizza While I love checking out new pizza places, the worst thing is ordering a pie and immediately wishing you didn’t. That’s why I love FUEL and its seven Charlotte locations; I know good pizza is never far away.

And what pizza is complete without some tasty wings?

If you’re like me, why not just combine the two? That’s where the Buffalo Chicken Pizza comes in. FUEL tosses big chunks of chicken in their award-winning buffalo sauce, then complements the pizza with crunchy celery, carrots, cilantro, mozzarella and aged cheddar. And of course, it’s all served up with chunky blue cheese dressing. Feel free to order this pie and thank me later.

FuelPizza.com | Various Charlotte locations Hawthorne’s New York Pizza and Bar Hawthorne’s loves Charlotte. And Charlotte loves Hawthorne’s as well.

With four different Queen City locations, there’s no excuse not to stop in and savor the Luau Pizza. I’m all for pineapple on pizza, but what really sets this dish apart is the taste combination of smoked pulled pork and caramelized onions. Hawthorne’s finishes this work of art with bacon, ham and mozzarella, then serves it up piping hot. The ingredients are fresh, the sauce is robust, and the taste is simply amazing. I’ll be seeing you soon, Hawthorne’s.

HawthornesPizza.com | Various Charlotte locations Dining Editor, Nikki Wilson

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fashion

THE TOAST OF THE TOWN Steve Caldwell and Rita Miles join forces and present: Charlotte Seen Fashion Week 2011 Charlotte Seen Fashion Week 2011 is targeted to add Charlotte as one of the fashion capitals of the world, with a winning combination partnership this year. Steve Caldwell -- fabulous editor and entrepreneur genius -- and Rita Miles of Miles of Impact and Charlotte Scene (who happens to be drop dead gorgeous and a connoisseur of fashion), have paired up to rock this town!

Both Rita and Steve are immensely talented individuals with an eye for creativity as well as for bringing the latest in entertainment innovation to our city. Charlotte Seen Fashion Week will be held September 19 through 24 in the beautiful Center City area of Uptown Charlotte. What you should expect is a week full of activities, fashion and socializing that will rival New York City’s Fashion Week. Steve is an expert at putting together events and Rita is the

fashion expert; and with this winning combination it will be the event of the year!

The weeklong event will be held at various locations in Charlotte and each night will be a celebrated showcase of talent.

The event begins Monday, September 19 with a kickoff party, and plays out daily with the finale on Saturday, with Miles of Impact. This particular evening brings it all together for an amazing conclusion with local celebrities and personalities taking the runway to benefit a local charity and non-profit.

The buzz is everywhere in anticipation of this huge event and it will be a week to remember. A huge spot light will be on fashion designer Luis Machicao. He is quite an interesting designer who began his career in Peru, studied Sociology with the belief that fashion is a social manifestation of the human being, and then flew to Paris to complete his education with European experience. Later, when Machicao went back to Peru, he began working in TV miniseries, soap operas and theatre. He was then hired by Peru’s First Lady to serve his country with his impeccable taste, also dressing celebrities and socialites. He began showing his collections in fashion shows and found his true passion. With an interesting life that plays out like a Showtime movie, I am quite sure his runway collection will be just as interesting.

Another exciting part of this event will be viewing the make-up and hair that will be created by the teams that work so strategically on the models. This is magical, as each model truly portrays a different story, unique to each designer. From chic to retro and everything else fabulous, this is what you will be viewing. The best night for this magic is Friday, when interior design and fashion will meet the body. The RE-MODEL Show will feature three local fashion designers and twenty local art33

ists and businesses reinventing couture pieces from recyclable interior design and construction items.

Saturday night will be red carpet worthy and the designers and styles will range from avant-garde to classic. You can visualize this event as the type that is typical of Hollywood and New York, where the city’s most elite and fashionable can be seen.

Reserving a VIP Table with a group of friends is my suggestion for an evening to remember.

As CoCo Chanel once said, ‘A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous.’

A toast to seeing you at the event and looking forward to not only salivating at the runway fashions but also at seeing you, my friends, looking classy and fabulous!

Fashion Editor, Debra Kennedy 34

Coming in SEPTEmBER

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PSYChogRAPhiCS of ELEVATE LifESTYLE REAdERS: 75.3% Visit A hair Salon Each month 76.8% Wear designer Labels 56.1% Annual income Above $55k 55.4% female SPECiAL EdiToRiAL Ad RATES: 30% off Rate Card Price for A Three Time Buy, online Editorial, And 300 x 250 Banner Advertisement. foR STRATEgiCE AdVERTiSing in ThiS iSSuE, PLEASE CALL 980.475.8600 oR EmAiL uS AT adv@ElevateLifestyle.com

fitness

ZX Fitness, along with several notable promotional partners like Fox Charlotte, Paschal Promotions and 704Events, are helping to gain new faces in their facilities – male or female- and challenge them to an eight to ten week weight loss test. The idea is to have a three-month health and fitness competition between four people to help people get in the gym, to lose as much weight possible and in a healthy way.

Each contestant will have access to a dietician/nutritionist to ensure that the right foods and nutrients are being consumed for optimal weight loss. A trainer will also be on-hand for the obvious reasons: ample exercise, correct form and assistance, as well as for motivational purposes.

ZX Fitness has chosen these 4 participants for their highly anticipated “LYX weight loss challenge”, better known as “LoZe your eXcuse” (notice the capitalized “Z” and “X”). This is the 2nd Annual challenge that ZX Fitness has hosted in the Charlotte area and has proven to be quite competitive this year with their final 4 contestants prepped and ready to wear the Queen City’s crowned champion. These fearless contestants are Tula Bright, Srikanth Janaki, Michelle Mattison and Nate White.

Even though anyone can keep up with their progress online at the ZXFitness.com, Elevate Lifestyle spoke with each of them to see how they were advancing through the challenge.

Srik Janaki What was your inspiration to lose your excuse? I have been fat all my life. I am also a food fanatic, always trying out new cuisines. But it had to end when I was diagnosed with diabetes, which shook me up. I never thought I would be diagnosed at such a young age. My parents (both sides of family) are diabetic. My doctor warned me that if didn’t exercise and cut down on carb intake, my medicines wouldn’t work. This motivated me to research different diets and weight-loss programs. Luckily, I found Lose Your Excuse. It’s a perfect program for me to lose the excess weight and an effective tool for diabetes management.

What are your goals? I am 6-5 and weigh 317 pounds. Using the LYX program, I would like to lose 50 pounds to reach the 260-270-pound range. This will lay the groundwork for my weight-training program at ZX fitness.

Are you looking to lose a certain percentage of body fat and/or weight?

I want to reduce from 32.3 percent to 18 percent to 20 percent fat.

What has been your biggest weakness throughout this challenge? I would say my diet. I am still learning how to plate my food (between carbs, proteins and vegetables). I am also having difficulties with the six-meals-a-day plan that my trainer prescribed. I have to start planning a week ahead from now on.

What kind of dedication would you say is necessary to be a successful LoZe your eXcuse contestant? Plan your meals. Be on time to your training sessions and group classes. Be a regular at the club. If you skip a day, you’ve taken a step back in winning the competition.

After this challenge, what types of permanent lifestyle changes do you foresee? Exercising daily, drinking one liter of water 30 minutes before a meal (this will prevent me from overeating), and thinking twice about what I am eating and how I am going to spend that energy.

Tula Bright What was your inspiration to ‘lose your excuse’? Having two closets full of clothes, but yet I repeat the same outfits over and over again ‘cause I can only fit a quarter of what I have. In addition to getting a grip on my medical issue (high blood pressure), being overweight leads to so many preventable diseases, none of which I want.

What are your goals? Other than “getting my sexy back,” I want to LIVE, baby! I don’t want weight to be a hindrance for me anymore.

Are you looking to lose a certain percentage of body fat and/or weight?

I do have a number in mind for how much I’d like to lose, but I’m really more concerned with inches.

What has been your biggest weakness throughout this challenge? A weakness, NAH!!! None of that; I have a great network of people supporting me at home and work. So Far, So Good.

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What kind of dedication would you say is necessary to be a successful LoZe your eXcuse contestant? Heart, mind and body really have be on one accord. I have to take this opportunity for the blessing it really is and make it a lifestyle.

Do you have a secret plan for success? No secrets, just keeping my eye on the prize: a healthier (sexier!) me.

After this challenge, what types of permanent lifestyle changes do you foresee? I plan to incorporate [into my daily life] ‌ all the tools provided to me such as proper portion control and exercising the right way as a part of my new lifestyle. No such thing as going back to who I used to be.

Michelle Mattison What was your inspiration to lose your excuse? Life is my inspiration. Two years ago I was diagnosed with a brain tumor, which came as a result of a pre-diabetic condition known as PCOS (Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome), which currently impacts approximately 1 in 10 women. Losing weight is the prescription to controlling the growth of the tumor, eliminating the effects of PCOS and reducing the risk of developing full-blown Type II diabetes and/or other debilitating conditions. Since the diagnosis, I have lost some weight; however, to achieve the desired results, I had to enter the NO EXCUSE ZONE. Optimal health is the ticket to living life to the fullest and in the abundance of God. Now is my time!

What are your goals? To reverse the risk factors resulting from PCOS, I must achieve and maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise. Because of the insulin resistance that often comes with this condition, weight loss has been a consistent struggle for me. My ultimate goal is to be a shining example to other Cysters (women impacted by PCOS) by demonstrating that successful and lasting weight loss is achievable. I am committed to LOSE MY EXCUSES and doing what it takes.

Are you looking to lose a certain percentage of body fat and/or weight?

My goal is to reduce my body fat percentage to a healthy range and to lose 75 pounds.

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What has been your biggest weakness throughout the challenge? The bread basket...and the bread!

What kind of dedication would you say is necessary to be a successful LoZe your eXcuse contestant? A 110-percent dedication and total commitment to the process, realizing that life and health go hand in hand. My health has to be a top priority in order to live the life of my dreams.

Do you have a secret plan for success? My secret plan for success is total commitment to the process and enjoying the journey. Along the way, I will celebrate each victory – the small ones, as well as the larger accomplishments.

Reminding myself of my progress and my reasons for implementing this new lifestyle will help keep me focused and my goals in clear view.

After this challenge, what types of permanent lifestyle changes do you foresee? Making healthy food and fitness decisions are slowly becoming a way of life for me. I see improved lifestyle habits, as my brain is retrained to think all things in moderation. Perhaps, choosing baked over fried, or yogurt and fruit over cookies and chips. After the challenge, I foresee not only physical changes in my body and health, but a TOTAL transformation of mind, body and spirit. Keeping my healthy mantra at the forefront of my mind will enable me to manage life and the temptations to sink back into old habits and mindset.

Nate White What was your inspiration to lose your excuse? My inspiration to join this competition was that I wanted an overall change of lifestyle, that would only last this summer or year but the rest of my life. I have always been a bigger guy, with all of the physical and mental affects that has. Over the last year I have lost 80lbs and I thought it would be awesome to join a competition and win prizes for something I was doing on my own anyways.

What are your goals? My overall goals is to lose another 50lbs or so, lose my gut, and get into a physical appearance I can be proud of. I want to be in world class shape and be able to do any physically challenging activity I decide to engage in. I want to learn how to eat properly and what exercises to do for certain results. But my overall goal is to be a healthy, long living person.

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Are you looking to lose a certain percentage of body fat and/or weight? I would like to be less than 215lbs (a total of 135lbs lost) and less than 18% body fat.

What has been your biggest weakness throughout this challenge? The completion is still new to everyone, so that is a broad question. So far I am struggling a bit with my flexibility, but I am working on that daily. My biggest weakness is that I want to train more and more but I have to give my body time to rebuild and catch up.

What kind of dedication would you say is necessary to be a successful LoZe your eXcuse contestant? As with anything worth doing in life, the kind of dedication required is directly reflected to what outcomes one wants. Personally, I have 26 years of bad eating, minimal physical exercise, and poor self image to erase. So I have the most dedication in this competition than I have had for anything in my life for the most part. I realize that might come off as something most people would not commit to, but most people don’t change their life for the better either. If you want significant drastic results, then you need serious and honest dedication, nothing less will do. And for me, nothing less is acceptable.

Do you have a secret plan for success? Hard work, consistency, support from loved ones, support from ones inner self, and a unquenchable drive to better yourself. If it’s worth doing, it’s worth ALL of your blood sweat and tears. I mean come on, its your body and life we’re talking about here.

After this challenge, what types of permanent lifestyle changes do you foresee? I will eat correctly and healthy for here on out. That’s not to say I will never be able to have cheat meals or enjoy the holidays or vacations, but I will know how to eat that good stuff while balancing a healthy diet. Working out will be a mainstay in my life. I will never again be a lethargic lazy person, I will always be an active happy person, and will be able to serve as an example and support column for others.

Fitness Editor, Monique Douglas

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22

nightlife

endless options!

Just northeast of downtown, you will find one of Charlotte’s most vibrant neighborhoods – Plaza Midwood. Whether you’re dining out or enjoying adult beverages, this borough caters to just about every scene and flavor. Options are endless. I haven’t seen this many options since walking the red-light district in Amsterdam. Two things are certain: You won’t be leaving here hungry or sober. Picking something bad about this neighborhood would be like trying to pick something bad about Charlotte’s own Brooklyn Decker. Or, for the ladies, like picking out something bad about Brad Pitt. Pretty difficult!

Have you ever had a blonde, a brunette and a redhead in bed at the same time? Me neither. Ever had a Cuban taco with southern squash casserole at a tikki bar? I have! Don’t ask me why I chose this comparison; it was the first thing that came to mind. I guess I am kind of crazy, but good krazy! That’s how a girlfriend described me to the woman who eventually became my wife when we were first introduced. Though my wife still thinks I am both kinds of crazy, I like to think of myself as a good krazy – like the new Krazy Fish off Central Ave. Both the outside and inside are covered with random eclectic art. And good art, not the

Rooftop at Whiskey Warehouse

lame lonely tree in a field that you see hanging up everywhere else. The music blaring here ranges from country to loud 1980s pop. Good ‘80s pop that took me back to a good place in life. While reminiscing over the tunes, I immediately detected an aroma of an old scent – a stinky pinky I had when first listening to this song.

In reality, though, it was scent of the killer fish tacos served here.

Krazy Fish’s food and atmosphere are worth coming alone, and if you’re not hungry as hell, just drink at Charlotte’s only outside tikki bar!

Speaking of drinking, Whiskey Warehouse’s long-awaited outside rooftop bar is finally open. When hiking up the stairs to the rooftop, I can’t help but to think of getting back in the gym, until I finally get to the top and see the big bar and view. Gym-shym! Give me a $4 Jack shot and a beer with a lot of carbs…stat! You won’t want to walk back down the steps after taking in what is, bar none, the best rooftop view in the city.

But when you do make it back down, you can sweat off the stair hike more next door at Thomas Street Tavern while playing pingpong outside on its patio. Remember Forest Gump playing pingpong? That’s how I look when I stumble over to spank the ball on these tables. That is, if Forest were blind, doubled-fisting with a couple of pints of whiskey in him. Celebrities have been spotted all around this bar and ‘hood. President Bill Clinton to Kid Rock have partied here and in this borough. Even the dude on the Food Network with the bad haircut who wears his shades the wrong way has been next door at Dish, inhaling Charlotte’s best chicken and dumplings.

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Newly opened Midwood Smoke House has some of Charlotte’s best BBQ. Down the block, you can find one of the city’s best burgers at Kick Stand.

Soul Gastro Lounge has the best tapas bar in town and is by far one of the best restaurants to take a date. Soul offers some delicious sushi, and across the street a full-blown sushi bar has arrived in the ‘hood at Akananna. Getting shipwrecked at Snug Harbor is a must if you’re in the mood for live music. Snug has some of the best up-andcoming bands playing in the country almost nightly.

I can keep naming places to see in Plaza Midwood, but I’ll soon stop. You need to party here and see for yourself. Plaza Midwood is a hidden gem to some new folks in town, but it’s also a polished diamond like one of its must-go-to establishments, The Diamond.

The Diamond, unlike a majority of places here, has been around for decades. Even the first-ever Harris Teeter from the 1930s is in this community. History is all around in Plaza Midwood, and history also is always in the making.

Take a break from downtown and get plastered in Plaza Midwood.

I’ll be sure to be bellied up at one of these places!

Cheers, Nightlife Editor, Sean Flynn

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THE HOME ISSUE Elevate Lifestyle magazine sits down with brokers at The McDevitt Agency to get their insight on some of Charlotte’s hottest areas and lifestyles.

The McDevitt Agency is a boutique firm of top-producing residential real estate agents specializing in homes and condos from SouthPark to Uptown, and Charlotte’s other popular neighborhoods.

These top-producing agents take customer service, sales, marketing, and technology to the next level. They strive to remain a group of over-qualified professionals who will provide unmatched market knowledge and personalized service along with a superior level of targeted marketing and advertising.

These brokers give us the scoop on Uptown’s highrises like SKYE Condos, Myers Park homes, lofts in NODA like Studio6, and everything in between. They also take us on a tour of some of Charlotte’s hottest penthouses, where it’s good to be on top.

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life at the top While the real estate market was booming a few years ago, “McMansions” were being squeezed into subdivisions all over the Charlotte metro. Meanwhile, the Uptown area was undergoing a revolution; luxury condo buildings were popping up everywhere. With super-size units, incredible interiors, rooftops pools and fitness centers, today’s condo buildings provide a welcome alternative for high-end buyers who prefer to be in the middle of the action rather than watching it from the sidelines in the ‘burbs.

The idea of a penthouse condo/apartment was born in New York City in the 1920’s.

And, while the common thread of penthouse units is that they are generally found on the top floors of a building, their architecture and style are as unique as the people who live in them.

I recently spent an evening touring four penthouse condos in and near Uptown. With their luxury finishes, car wash-size showers, and fully-stocked, glass-door refrigerators, these residences could rival any episode of MTV’s “Cribs”. Fortunately, each of the Charlotte penthouse owners spared me the “This is where the magic happens” quote when we entered their master bedrooms.

The Arlington Not sure which building this is? Commonly referred to as “The Big Pink Building”, The Arlington is a 24-story high-rise just outside the I-277 loop in Southend. This location affords its penthouse owners breath-taking, unobstructed, panoramic views of the Uptown skyline, Crowders and Kings Mountains, and the treetops of Myers Park, Southpark and beyond.

I visited a 4,000 square foot unit on the 23rd floor. A marble tiled entry and glass block wall welcomed me into this 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom condo. This wide open unit is exactly what most people imagine when they think of a penthouse.

Its soaring 16-foot ceilings, walls of windows, recessed and pendant lighting, and see-through fireplace have a very contemporary feel. Light beams in from every direction and is absent of the pink hue one might expect in this building.

The kitchen is set in the center of the massive living area and features Wolf appliances, a wood-block countertop on the island, sub-zero refrigerators and a range hood the size of a compact car.

The master suite features a private terrace, built-ins, a walk-through shower and ample custom closet.

The building’s residents enjoy a concierge, security, private parking, a fitness center, rooftop pool, and an expansive terrace for their private parties. It’s also just a short elevator ride to Nikko Japanese Restaurant on the first floor. And, The Arlington is conveniently nestled between two lightrail stations.

ArlingtonPenthouse.com 221 South Tryon You’d never even know that there’s an ultra-chic condo sitting atop the building that houses the swank Emerson Joseph men’s grooming lounge. But, if the penthouse owner unlocks the elevator to the third floor, you’d be both surprised and awestruck by the amazing architecture and impeccable style of this oneof-a-kind condo.

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Built in 1899, this building has undergone several renovations. The 4,000 square foot penthouse unit occupies what was once a commercial space. Its 4 bedroom and 4.5 baths are spacious and sophisticated. . .and, believe me, I’d have never expected a urinal in residential construction to look and feel sophisticated.

In converting the space to a residence, the developer paid special attention to the need to allow for natural light throughout the unit. A large hole was cut in the ceiling to provide an access point to a rooftop terrace. The glassed-in solarium that houses a narrow, spiral staircase leading to this urban, rooftop oasis allows light into the rear of the condo. There is also a glass-block inlay in the floor of the main living area directly below a skylight; this provides natural light to the penthouse as well as the bridal boutique that is housed on the 2nd floor of the building.

The exposed brick, huge wooden beams, and pine floors exude character and class. A large, dark bar and pool table occupy one side of the main living area.

The space is perfect for entertaining, complete with an oval dining table that seats ten and an island in the kitchen that feels as large as some Caribbean islands.

With a massive bar, all-weather plasma TV, bocce ball court, and large lounge/ entertainment space, the rooftop terrace is the crown jewel of this penthouse.

And, because it’s surrounded by much taller buildings, the rooftop has a very intimate, private feel.

I can’t imagine why someone who lives in this condo would ever want or need to leave; but, if they do, Ruth’s Chris and McCormick and Schmick are right outside the front door. And, everything amazing about Uptown is just steps away.

The Trust Formerly the Home Federal Savings and Loan building, The Trust is an ultralavish, ultra-exclusive building less than a block from the Trade and Tryon intersection. With just 7 units, this building lacks any formal signage and features

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an understated lobby. It is not pretentious, but when you enter, you get the feeling that you’ve arrived.

The 6,600 square foot, 4 bedroom, 4.5 bathroom, two-story penthouse that I toured is modern, yet warm. The dark woods and exposed concrete ceilings are softened by impressive chandeliers. The wall-to-wall windows open and turn a full 360-degrees, allowing for open-air living in the heart of the city.

Perfect for entertaining, the main floor includes the kitchen, main living areas, and master suite. Featuring a cabinet-style refrigerator, wine cooler, built-in Miele espresso/cappuccino maker, and multiple top-ofthe-line ovens and microwaves, the kitchen is adjacent to the first of two large outdoor living spaces.

The impressive master suite boasts a master bath (with his and hers vanities flanking a large soaking tub (complete with champagne bubble jets), a walkthrough shower, incredible closet with an adjacent laundry room), wet bar in the bedroom, and a sitting room off the bedroom.

The lower level of the condo incldues another wide open living space and a more modest kitchen. And, why would you need a full kitchen out in the open when there’s a full catering kitchen behind a nearby door? The cork floors, automated blinds, and extravagant housewide audio/video add to the luxurious feel of this amazing penthouse.

The rooftop deck has yet to be completed at The Trust, but will feature an outdoor kitchen, sundeck, dog walk, and waterfall. The building also has a private resident entry to the top floor lounge and private dining room of Chima Brazilian Steakhouse.

TheTrustLuxury.com The Madison Adjacent to the Hilton Garden Inn, The Madison is a 26-unit condo building with units that feel more like homes. You won’t find any concrete floors or exposed

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duct work at The Madison; instead, you’ll be welcomed with marble lobbies, bright hallways, extensive moulding, and more traditional touches of luxury.

The 3,600 square foot, two-story penthouse units feature 2 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. The main level has an open kitchen, breakfast area, dining room, two-story living area, three terraces, a study, and storage.

The kitchen features GE Monogram appliances, granite countertops, and a massive pantry. With its six-burner stove and glazed cabinetry, it is not dissimilar to kitchens found in large single, family homes.

The master suite is large and overlooks the two-story living area. The enormous bathroom has plenty of space for a sitting area and the impressive master closet is appropriately divided into his and hers areas.

Residents at The Madison have an impressive list of amenities as well. There’s a 24-hour concierge, complimentary shuttle service, fitness center, same-day drycleaning, and a discount on room service from the restaurant at the Hilton Garden Inn. Fifteen of the 26 units have sold since The Madison units were released for sale in October. For more information about available units, contact The McDevitt Agency at 704.451.2814.

TheMadisonCharlotte.com Korrynn Baltzerson

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Knick Knack Stores If you are like me, while out and about, you always tend to find great things that you would love to purchase, but don’t really need. But then something comes up, whether you need to give a gift, you are looking for that one piece to finish off a room, or you have to completely decorate a room, and you can never find what you are looking for. Don’t fret. Charlotte has plenty of shops with everything you need, you just need to know where to find them. Below are a list of shops, each offering their own taste and style, that might be able to give you what you’ve been so desperately looking for.

Located right off of East Boulevard is one of my personal favorite shops in Charlotte, Paper Skyscraper. You can literally find anything there. One thing I love is their selection of bath products that include fine bath salts, lotions, and their large array of wonderfully smelling candles. You can also find great cook books, funky picture frames, quirky cards, toys for children and adults, tasty treats, and even some handmade jewelry. Whatever you are looking for, they are sure to have something you will enjoy.

330 East Boulevard | Charlotte, NC 28203 | 704.333.7130 www.paperskyscraper.com

Pura Vida Worldly Art, nestled in their new location on North Davidson street in downtown NoDa, is filled with trinkets most people would have to travel the world to find. They offer eclectic folk art from places like Latin America, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. From Latin American Luchador masks to jewelry from Istanbul containing the traditional “evil eye,” you never know what you will find.

3202a North Davidson St. | Charlotte, NC 28205| 704.335.8587 www.puravidaart.com A difficult store to spot, South End Exchange, on Camden Road right off of East Boulevard, may contain that perfect piece of furniture or wonderful antique mirror that’s just been waiting to be placed in one of your rooms. South End Exchange specializes in fine home furniture and antique consigning. They offer a large selection of designer home furnishings, china, crystal, lighting, rugs, and they even have artwork from local and regional artists. The consignment pieces they receive range in style from traditional southern to antique Asian. You may even find one of your grandmother’s teddybears tucked away on a shelf for a touch of decoration.

1616 Camden Road | Charlotte, NC 28203 | 704.353.4600 www.southendexchange.com City Supply Company, located in the business district of Plaza Midwood, might be one of the best places in Charlotte to find that missing piece to fill and finish a room. They offer the usual -- furniture, lighting, rugs and art -- but also provide full interior design services to help bring your own ideas together and offer their ideas as well. City Supply has beautiful art deco and modern pieces including some great chandeliers, and all at incredibly reasonable prices!

1219 Thomas Ave. | Charlotte, NC 28205-5043 | 704.347.2489 www.citysupplycharlotte.com Innbo Furniture -- located in Cornelius, just a bit farther out of the city -- also carries contemporary furniture. With lines like Johnston Casuals based in the mountains of North Carolina that manufactures contemporary metal and glass designs; and Calligaris, a stylish Italian brand, there is a huge variety to choose from. They also have a large supply of rugs that vary in size and design.

19420 Jetton Rd. #105 | Cornelius, NC 28031-4412 | 704.896.3404 www.innbofurniture.com

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If these previous stores don’t have quite what you are looking for, here are few more great stores to take a look at. Happy shopping!

Green With Envy 1111 Central Ave. Suite 200 Charlotte, NC 28204 704.344.8774 www.GreenWithEnvyCharlotte.com World Market 9557 South Boulevard Charlotte, NC 28273 704.554.1692 www.WorldMarket.com Sur La Table 440 Sharon Rd. #175 Charlotte, NC 28211-3612 704.362.2360 www.SurlaTable.com Crate and Barrel 4320 Sharon Rd. Charlotte, NC 28211 704.362.4003 www.CrateAndBarrel.com

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The Brass Exchange 2909 Selwyn Ave. Charlotte, NC 28209-1734 704.377.2152 Bedside Manor 6822 Phillips Place Ct. # E Charlotte, NC 28210-2725 704.554.7727 www.BedsideManor.com Bella Casa 2907 Providence Rd. #102 Charlotte, NC 28211-1525 City Art Works 1630 Woodlawn Rd. #226 Charlotte, NC 28209-2269 704.527.1300 www.CityArtworks.com Elizabeth Solitario

Sizzling

HOT august

Purchase any TimbersTone home by 8/31/11 and receive a free ouTdoor living Package!

Bring this ad into any of the 23 Timberstone Homes Communities and Receive a $10 Gift Card.

704.839.3643 www.Timberstone-Homes.com See sales representative for details. Packages are community specific, vary by community and may be exchanged for the value in design center options if the buyer prefers. Contract must be written between 7/1/11-8/31/11 to qualify for the promotion. Prices are subject to change. Equal opportunity housing. Photos shown are for illustration purposes only and do not represent actual outdoor living package giveaway. Promotions cannot be combined. Must present ad and register to receive gift card which will be mailed to your residence. One per household.

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SKYE Condos What’s the range of price points? One bedrooms from the low $200s; two bedrooms from the low $300s; SKYE CLUB level condos from the $600s; and SKYE Penthouses from $2.35 million What’s the size of the places? 800 to 3,600 square feet What are some floor plans like? 1bed/1bath to 2bed/2.5bath, plus office What are some of the amenities? Concierge service, valet parking, dry cleaning service, room delivery service, SKYE LOBBY club room, theatre room, fitness center, rooftop pool, rooftop restaurant and bar Is there a parking garage? Yes. There is controlled access resident parking with valet parking available.

What restaurants are nearby? Rooftop Restaurant, Flemmings, BLT, Enso, Aria, Blue, and Kalu

Is it near the light rail? One and a half blocks What shopping is close by? Uptown’s Overstreet Mall What about clubs/bars nearby? Rooftop Bar/Lounge, Mez, Urban Sip, Bentleys, and Suite Are there gyms nearby? Charlotte Athletic Club, and the Uptown YMCA Who developed SKYE Condos? Small Brothers LLC Real Estate Development Who is handling sales and inquiries? The McDevitt Agency Is there an open house that someone could come to? Daily by appointment at the Info Center at 221 South Tryon Street. The official sales center opens daily in late August at The EpiCentre.

When is the completion date? Fall 2012 Can owners host parties on the rooftop?

Owners can entertain guests at the rooftop pool or the rooftop restaurant and lounge.

Is the rooftop accessible to all owners? Yes Does each complex have its own terrace? Yes, each has at least one oversized terrace.

Will owners have access to the hotel services? The home owners will be able to take advantage of several of the hotel services.

How can I find out more about SKYE Condos? You can call (704) 651-5456 or shoot us an e-mail at Live@SKYEcondos.com. Or for more detailed information, you can check out these two Web sites: SKYEcondos.com and TourSKYEcondos.com.

Elizabeth Solitario 69

A night of improv, sketch and stand-up comedy to benefit Cystic Fibrosis!

Featuring Charlotte’s Funniest Folks!

Saturday, August 13 @ 7PM Chop Shop - 399 E 35th St – NODA $10 All proceeds go to Cystic Fibrosis SPONSORED BY

Welcome Home!

Find your place. HomesWithCachet.com New and Resale Homes and Condos Investment Properties Expert Relocation Services Julie Tache ` Owner/Broker (NC&SC), Realtor速, CRS, ABR, e-PRO, QSC Member of the Council of Cel: 704.236.7536 Julie@JulieTache.com

HomesWithCachet.com

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studio 6 NoDa What is the price range of the units available? $138,400 to $162,700 .

What size are the units? 675 to 925 square feet.

What is the bedroom/bathroom range? 1bed/1bath; and 1bed/1bath with lower-level studio.

What amenities does Studio 6 NoDa have? Location, modern design, eco-friendly features, and covered parking.

Is there a parking garage? Two-car carport with option to convert to garage.

What restaurants are close by? Crepe Cellar, Growlers Pour House, Boudreaux, Revolution Pizza, and Amelie’s.

Is the light rail nearby? Yes, proposed stops are at 28th Street and 36th Street.

What shopping is nearby? The Arts District Main Street, Dialect Art Gallery, Pura Vida, Green Rice Gallery and Studios, Hart Witzen Gallery, NoDaRioty, and The Arthouse.

What clubs and bars are nearby? The Dog Bar, The Evening Muse, Jack Beagle’s, Sin City, Dolce Vita Wine Bar, and Neighborhood Theatre.

What gyms are nearby? Ultimate Gym, and Johnston YMCA. How close is it to Uptown? Two and a half miles.

Who is the development company? RED Partners are the developers.

Who is handling sales and marketing of NoDa 6? The McDevitt Agency (Pat Deely and Lana Laws).

Is there an open house? Yes, by appointment.

When is the expected completion date? Early 2012.

Why did you choose to make the complex small? Our goal is to push the envelope on efficiency, design, and quality in a modern intimate environment.

Who are some of the designers that collaborated for these town homes? Cluck Design Collaborative, Reaching Quiet Is each flat two stories? Yes. The base package condo includes a two-car carport on the ground floor with living space on second floor.

Premium upgrade package includes a one-car garage and ground floor studio space. Second floor is living space including high design finishes.

Where can I get more information? You can check out their Web site Studio6Noda.com, or call one of these two numbers: (704) 604-9303 or (704) 779-9005.

Elizabeth Solitario 73

Ashton mixes classic design with upbeat modernism. It’s an emerging “it” spot – the ideal locale for the urban sophisticate who thrives on energy and seeks out the unique and intriguing.

Here, just south of Uptown Charlotte, South End’s distinguished galleries, shopping, entertainment and dining district are just outside your door.

COME SEE WHAT EVERYONE IS TALKING ABOUT.

SOCIAL SPACES Start your day at the coffee bar or with a workout in the fitness club.

In the evening, entertain friends on the outdoor terrace or relax by the fire on the rooftop Sky Lounge.

• UNpARALLELEd VIEWS Of UpTOWN • pRIVATE HdTV SCREENING ROOM • SpORTS LOUNGE WITH BILLIARdS • pREMIER RESIdENT SERVICES • GOURMET CATERING KITCHEN • ONE BLOCK fROM THE LYNX LIGHT RAIL

866.864.3247 125 W. TREMONT AVENUE // CHARLOTTE, NC 28203 // ASHTONSE.COM

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The Madison What’s the range of price points? $399k to $1.275 million What’s the size of the places? 1,800 to 3,600 square feet What are some floor plans like? 2bed/2bath and 3bed/3bath What are some of the amenities? Private lobby, fitness center, concierge service, room delivery, complimentary shuttle service, and dry cleaning service Is there a parking garage? Yes, access-controlled private resident parking What restaurants are nearby? Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, McCormick and Schmicks, Dean and Deluca, Buffalo Wild Wings, Vapiano, and Enso

Is The Madison near the light rail? Two blocks away What shopping is close by? Uptown’s Overstreet Mall is two blocks away.

What about clubs/bars nearby? Suite, Mez, Howl at the Moon, Buffalo Wild Wings, Whiskey River, Kazba, and Strike City Are there gyms nearby? Charlotte Athletic Club, Uptown YMCA, and the DOWD YMCA Who developed The Madison? Smith Enterprises Who is handling sales and inquiries? The McDevitt Agency Is there an open house that someone could come to?

By appointment, and two weekends a month When is the completion date? Now, ready for move in Does each condominium have a terrace? Each condo has two or three private terraces.

Does each complex have its own floor? Nope, there are four units per floor, all corner units.

Is The Madison affiliated with the hotel? The Madison is located next to two hotels, and residents can take advantage of many of the hotel services.

How can I find out more about The Madison? You can reach someone at (704) 451-2814 or e-mail Info@TheMadisonCharlotte.com. You can also go to either one of these Web sites to learn more: TheMadisonCharlotte.com and TourTheMadison.com.

Elizabeth Solitario 77

to e v a h Do you ave a h o t k n i dr ? e m i t d goo Circle

One

ybe a M o Yes N Mortimer’s, where you don’t have to drink to have a good time… but it helps! new menu launches in august. come see what made the cut. located on the first level of the EpiCentre 704.688.0366 mortimerspub.com Working to Preserve Old Fashioned Service…and a good time!

Pat Deely The McDevitt Agency Specializing in Buyers, Sellers, Developers, and Investors EL: What type of real estate or architecture inspires you?

PD: Real estate is my passion, so I appreciate all types of construction. But I tend to gravitate toward modern, contemporary and urban construction.

EL: Which area/market is your primary focus?

PD: The urban market – within three miles of Center City – is my primary focus. However, I do business outside of this area as well, particularly with referrals and past clients.

EL: Sounds like you do a lot of new construction as well as resale properties. Do you enjoy this mix of activity?

PD: I love it. I’m never satisfied, so having this mix keeps me moving at a substantial pace and allows me to work with all types of clients.

EL: What makes you stand out from other brokers?

PD: That is a loaded question! My business partner (Lana Laws) and I have very different skill sets. We collaborate on most, if not all, of the business that we do, affording each of us the opportunity to focus on our strengths. Two heads are better than one, right?

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Sophia Burrowes The McDevitt Agency Specializing IN Buyers, sellers and RENTERS in Charlotte’s Trendy Neighborhoods EL: What are some of your favorite market areas in which to work?

SB: I love to work in Uptown and its surrounding neighborhoods, and I’m also a huge fan of the Lake Norman area.

EL: What makes you stand out from other brokers?

SB: My versatility. I enjoy working in a variety of neighborhoods and with a broad range of clients. I represent everyone from busy professionals, to young families, to empty-nesters looking to buy, sell, or lease from South Park to Davidson and in between. Whether you want a South Park home, an Uptown condo, or lakefront living, I’m here to make it happen!

EL: What interests do you have outside of work?

SB: I cherish my downtime. I love to watch sports, entertain friends and family, read, cook, and especially travel. I also really enjoy exploring ALL of the Charlotte area. It seems like I discover a new hot spot every day. I can enjoy a concert at the Music Factory, savor a great dinner Uptown, spend the morning at a coffee shop in NODA, take my dog to Freedom Park, go for a run at the Whitewater Center, or enjoy a glass of wine with my boyfriend on a patio overlooking Lake Norman.

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Evan Sheets The McDevitt Agency High Rise Specialist EL: Your specialty in the real-estate industry is high-rises. Why did you choose that?

ES: I’ve always had a passion for elevated living. I enjoy selling the view and the lifestyle.

EL: How has that specialty made you a better real-estate agent?

ES: I have an acute focus that lends me the ability to understand the high-rise market like no one else. Ask me a question about a high-rise in Charlotte and I’ll have an immediate answer.

EL: What does it cost to live in an Uptown high-rise these days?

ES: You can get into an amenity-packed high-rise for as low as the mid $100,000s. Or, spend as much as $3 million-plus on a luxurious penthouse.

EL: What makes you stand out from other brokers?

ES: You won’t find another agent in Charlotte who specializes solely on high-rise condos. I focus on a niche product.

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Chris Bonnefoux The McDevitt Agency Specializing In luxury and high rise condominiums EL: Where do you live? In Uptown?

CB: Yes, I live in Uptown at the Avenue high rise. I have a great view of the city and work from my upper-floor condo.

EL: How did you choose to specialize in high-rises and luxury properties?

CB: I’ve worked with clients buying Uptown properties ranging from lofts and townhomes to luxury condos and high-rises. I ultimately evolved to specialize in luxury and high-rise condos. These are the types of properties that I enjoy and what most of my clients are looking for.

EL: Do you only work in Uptown or do you also work in other areas?

CB: I occasionally assist clients with properties outside of Uptown, but the vast majority of my business is within the Center City loop.

EL: What makes you stand out from other brokers?

CB: I live and embrace the Uptown lifestyle. I live, work and play here and know this market like no one else.

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Lana Laws The McDevitt Agency SPECIALING IN LOFT CONDOMINIUMS EL: How would you define “loft?”

LL: Loft condos and homes are characterized by high ceilings, large windows, and open floorplans. In the past, they’ve been pigeon-holed as industrial and unfinished, with exposed ductwork and no walls.

That’s being redefined as the buyer population’s demands evolve and can range from warehouse to luxury and from highrise to townhome.

EL: Why did you decide to specialize in loft homes?

LL: It’s a natural fit. My clients increasingly prefer high ceilings and open floorplans in Charlotte’s popular walkable neighborhoods. It’s a fun niche to work with because they’re such inspiring spaces to be in.

EL: What is your favorite thing about selling lofts?

LL: I love watching my clients’ faces light up when they walk into a light-filled loft space and envision themselves living there.

EL: Why do you think lofts are becoming more popular?

LL: Developers, inspired by architecture from other cities, began to respond to the growing demand for open layouts and creative design.

Luxury lofts like The Trust, highrise lofts like those at Avenue and Trademark, and townhome lofts like Celadon and Skyline Terrace have opened up a world of loft living that was previously unavailable in Charlotte.

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John Ogburn The McDevitt Agency Specializing IN Working with buyers and Sellers from Southpark to Uptown EL: What do you enjoy about being a real estate broker?

JO: Meeting new people and nurturing relationships with existing clients is a big part of my job and something that I really enjoy. To strengthen these relationships, I maintain detailed and up to date knowledge of the existing and upcoming listings throughout uptown and other Charlotte neighborhoods.

EL: What part of Charlotte do you live in?

JO: I currently live in Myers Park.

EL: And, your office is in Uptown, so that seems to have given you multiple areas of specialty?

JO: I bought my first condo in Uptown over 10 years ago and have felt attached to the area since. I also understand that people decide to get married and perhaps have kids, so their needs often change as mine did. I’m familiar with all the Charlotte neighborhoods and am diligent in helping my clients choose the best neighborhood to fit their lifestyle.

EL: Why do you enjoy working with these different client types?

JO: Whether it is a recent college graduate, a young family, or a retiree looking to downsize, I find it rewarding to get to know and help all types of people. That is why I love my job.

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Randy Cernohorsky The McDevitt Agency Specializing IN Center City Luxury Homes and Condominiums EL: Where do you live?

RC: I live in a Victorian home in Uptown’s historic Fourth Ward.

EL: How long have you been in the real-estate business?

RC: I have focused on Uptown properties since 2000, specializing in Uptown high-end residential and corporate relocation. I love working in Fourth Ward because I know everyone and have sold many properties here two or three times. Plus, it offers a mix of everything from Victorian homes to a 51-story luxury high-rise.

EL: What makes you stand out as a broker?

RC: Three words: Knowledge, professionalism and personality.

EL: What do you like best about living Uptown?

RC: The energy of the city and being able to walk everywhere from great restaurants to parks and museums.

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John Geuss The McDevitt Agency Specializing in FIRST-TIMERS TO DOWN-SIZING BABY BOOMERS EL: You work with both first-time homebuyers and with the “Baby Boomer” crowd. Why is that?

JG: I love helping people in general, but first-time homebuyers even more so. It’s their first place, they are excited and need guidance, and their first home will always be near and dear to them.

EL: In which areas of town do you specialize?

JG: My main focus is Myers Park to Uptown, including neighborhoods such as Dilworth, South Park, Eastover and Elizabeth.

EL: I know the first-time buyer has always been an active buyer, but has the “Baby Boomer” moving toward the city become a more prevalent client of yours?

JG: My sphere of friends is in a similar situation as me: The kids are moving on with their lives with college and careers. It’s now time for us to think about ourselves again. I’ve seen a big trend of this buyer segment downsizing from north and south Charlotte to closer to the heart of the city and the action.

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Scott Russo The McDevitt Agency Specializing in Urban Core Properties EL: You focus on the Center City market and its popular surrounding neighborhoods?

SR: I do. I enjoy working in the neighborhoods in which I spend the most time. I’m always bumping into someone new!

EL: What are some of your favorite urban neighborhoods?

SR: You’ll find me sipping coffee in Plaza Midwood with my dogs or swanking it up around Uptown with my wife, Nicole.

EL: What do you do to stand out from other brokers?

SR: I advise my clients, as opposed to just selling them on something.

Buying a home is serious business, and I work hard to inject the experience with a little fun when possible. I am an online/new media marketing expert, which gets the properties I represent in front of the most buyers possible, resulting in quicker sales.

EL: Since you service the Uptown area real estate market, which condo building is your favorite?

SR: I am on the sales team for the new SKYE condos. Although, not finished yet this building is going to be hot! SKYE offers amenities and lifestyle options that are not found in other buildings. Stay tuned for details.

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Shane McDevitt The McDevitt Agency Center City condo and penthouse specialist EL: How long have you been in the real estate business?

SM: I’ve been in the business since 2004, and then we started The McDevitt Agency in 2008 as we looked to bring a fresh and new vibe to Charlotte’s real estate industry. We are a boutique firm of topproducing brokers with cutting-edge technology and a desire to give back to the community. We work from South Park to Uptown and the surrounding neighborhoods.

EL: What is your personal niche?

SM: I specialize in all Center City real estate with a focus on the luxury market. A lot of my clients, including pro athletes and business executives, tend to gravitate towards high-rise and penthouse properties.

I also work with developers on the sales of new construction projects.

EL: What’s next for you and The McDevitt Agency?

SM: Our next target is taking over the sales and leasing of urban retail and restaurant spaces; and Lake Norman waterfront-only properties.

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lifestyle

Distressed Properties –

The Differences between Foreclosures and Short Sales In today’s crazy world of residential real estate, buyers are looking for terrific deals; and why not, it’s a buyer’s market! The first question is, how to get them? Where are the best deals found? And how do you know exactly what you’re getting?

Let’s start with a typical open market sale. These are homes sold by owners who are not delinquent on their mortgage payments (and may even own the property outright). Most of these folks expect to sell at a price based on what similar homes in their neighborhood have sold for in the very recent past. However, many factors have come into play in recent years, so sellers are often willing to negotiate for lower prices in order to get their homes sold. Some end up selling for less than they paid, while others can still come away with a fair profit. But the bottom line is that the seller is in charge of the decision of the price they will accept.

More than ever, buyers are asking about “distressed” properties.

First of all, what exactly does it mean? Most of these are foreclosed or bank-owned properties (also known at R.E.O. or Real Estate Owned); or they are what is referred to as a “short sale.”

Many people make the mistake of thinking they are the same thing, but in reality, they are extremely different, especially in the process it takes to buy them.

A typical foreclosure is a home that was purchased by someone who was not able to make their mortgage payments, and they lost their home to the bank. After a period of time of non-payment (and some legal wrangling), ownership reverts to the bank which held the mortgage. In North Carolina, mortgages are secured by a Deed of Trust which says you promise to keep paying the bank each month or they have the right to take back the property from you. You don’t pay, you don’t stay!

When a bank owns the property and lists it with a realtor for sale, there are two advantages for the potential home buyer. First, they are dealing with a business entity looking to get rid of something it doesn’t want to keep, not a homeowner who may take negotiations personally. Next, the price of foreclosures tends to be considerably below its “market” value. Unfortunately, those lower sales prices do affect the value of all the homes in the neighborhood, so an area with many foreclosures hurts the value of all. One thing to remember is that these homes are sold “as-is.” Inspections are important, as always, to make sure there are no existing problems that will cost more to fix than you can afford. Don’t think the bank will replace that awful carpet or fix the rotted wood – those will be yours to deal with. So sharpen up your handyman skills, a foreclosure may just allow you to afford a larger home than you expected!

Next is the short sale. This seems to be a very misunderstood concept to many buyers, so it’s important to know the process before you consider buying one. The first point about a short sale is that it’s not owned by the bank! The owner is the person who

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Julie Tache, Realtor®

purchased the property, but who is behind on payments (or may have stopped paying all together). They are trying to sell the home for a negotiated price that is less than what they owe the bank – thus the term short sale – it is short of the balance due on the loan. For the bank, it becomes a choice of settling for a moderate loss versus having to foreclose and facing a much larger loss in the process. The potential buyer’s offer is actually presented to the owner, who then must submit it to the bank for acceptance, and that is just the start of the deal.

While a foreclosure purchase is often a very quick process (the bank usually asks that the buyer inspect the home and close within a month or so), a short sale can take what seems like forever.

Banks may not have the staff to handle the huge volume of sales they have, so it’s not unusual to submit an offer on a listed short sale home, only to wait months without receiving a response! If you have a time frame in which you must close on your next home, this probably isn’t for you. Many buyers do not like the uncertainty of the short sales, but like foreclosures, it’s often a great deal if you can make it work!

For any home purchase, it’s important to use an experienced realtor to look out for your best interests, and to get pre-approved for a mortgage so you know what you can comfortably afford!

Julie Tache is the Broker/Owner of Homes With Cachet, a boutique real estate firm in Charlotte. She represents buyers, sellers and investors and holds licenses in North and South Carolina, and the designations CRS, ABR, e-PRO, QSC.

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lifestyle

who has a pool?

It’s been a hot summer, not uncommon in Charlotte – or the South in general – but it’s easy to forget just how steamy and muggy it can be when we are aren’t in the midst of summer. As the season progresses, so do the calls, texts, and Facebook posts: “Who has a pool?” Relief from the heat is a premium, and good friends with access become great friends.

For obvious reasons, this time of year clients seem more attuned to finding living options with pools than any other time of year. For many, a pool isn’t a big deal and isn’t always high on the list of “musts” when house-hunting. But it’s one of those amenities that when you do want

it, you really want it. Not all condo complexes in the Uptown loop and surrounding Center City neighborhoods have pools. Those that do vary widely from price to age to style. It might not be as outof-reach as you might expect to have the sunbathing and dipping options at your doorstep or a short elevator ride away.

Though a number of apartment projects in the city offer swimming pools, we’ll take a look at the condo complexes for those looking to make an investment in Uptown. Below are a few of the Center City options with pools, representing a wide range of options in style and price: SPRINGFIELD SQUARE These 1980s-built apartments-turned-condos have it all. Great location beside Fourth Ward Park and across the street from Harris Teeter, making those mid-weekend beer and grill runs easy. Prices start in the low to mid $100,000s for one- and two-bedroom units.

FIFTH & POPLAR You’ll feel like you’re on vacation living here. “Resort-like” is commonly used to describe this project located in the heart of Fourth Ward. The building has a 1.5-acre “park” in the center, complete with pool, grilling station, putting green and fountain. Concierge service and abundant indoor meeting rooms, party rooms, gym and coffee station round out the amenities. Prices start in the low $100,000s and rise into the $400,000 range for larger luxury units.

AVENUE CONDOS This iconic cobalt-blue high-rise offers modern lofts and two-bedroom units located just one block from the most varied entertainment district in Charlotte – from opera to dive bars and everything in between. Or you can travel just two more blocks and find yourself at Epicentre and Bobcats Arena. The 10th-floor amenity deck offers plenty of options as well: surround-sound theatre room, billiards and card tables, outdoor grilling areas with fireplace and outdoor TV, pool and state-of-the-art workout facility. Prices start

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in the very low $200,000s and rise as high as or more than $1 million for penthouse units.

715 NORTH CHURCH Though the pool is really just a wading pool, it still offers relief from the summer heat and is a great place to meet neighbors and catch rays. Units range from small 400-500-square-foot studios to larger 1,500-square-foot two-bedrooms and have sold in recent years between $86,000 and $325,000.

230 SOUTH TRYON One of Uptown’s premier high-rise luxury buildings with Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse as a neighbor and the museum district just a block away, this is city living at its finest. The ground-level pool offers ever-on-the-move sunbathing options, and is perfect for a late afternoon dip before venturing out for dinner at the many fine-dining options near the building. Studios start just above or less than $200,000, and amazing penthouse units are offered in the millions.

For more info on projects inside the Uptown Loop or those just outside that have swimming pools, visit: NnewCondosCharlotte. com/condo_projects_with_pools Scott Lindsley, Broker MyTownhome Realty

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lifestyle

Timberstone Homes One of the largest private home builders in the area, Timberstone Homes offers 23 communities with 13 decorated models for viewing in Charlotte, Concord, Huntersville, Indian Trail, Fort Mill, Lake Wylie, Waxhaw, Midland, Wesley Chapel, and Mint Hill. They pride themselves on giving home buyers “a custom experience at a price you can afford.”

Timberstone Homes understands that your home purchase is a very important investment and decision. To ensure you feel confident in that decision their sales representatives are very well educated on all of their communities and surroundings; from shopping, to dining and even the school districts. They are also very knowledgeable in the mortgage industry and have built relationships with some of the leading lenders here in the Carolinas.

Whether you are looking to upgrade or downsize your home, the group at Timberstone Homes is very keen on affordability and has many options for you to choose from while customizing your home. Home prices range from the lower $100’s to the upper $300’s and vary in style. They build all single-family homes ranging in square feet from

1428-4020 and have a variety of ranch, and two-story homes.

With over 40 different floor plans you’ll be sure to find a home that’s right for you.

To help you put the personal touches on your new home, Timberstone Homes provides a design center that lets you choose everything from your flooring and cabinets, to appliances, and even blinds. They have a design coordinator that works with you step by step to customize the features of your new home. Timberstone Homes has partnered with well-known vendors such as, Ply Gem Windows, Boral Brick, 84 Lumber, Shaw Carpet, Merillat Cabinets, Mullican, American Olean and Armstrong Flooring, Frigidaire, and Duron to give you the quality materials you expect in a new home.

In order to ensure and maintain the utmost confidence in your new home and its building process, You will have three, one on one meetings with your builder to further layout all of the details of your new home. In your first meeting you will go over all the selections, the placement of the home on the lot, the topography and property boundaries, and details of your home before the construction commences. The second meeting, which occurs after the pouring of the foundation and the framing of the house, will involve walking through the “skeleton” of the house. There, your builder will verify your selections from the design center and will provide the timeframe and completion date of your home. Your third and final meeting will take place when the home is complete, and will be prior to closing. At this meeting, you will once again be walked through the house and go over every detail including the inner workings of the house to make sure that everything is to your satisfaction. Timberstone Homes supports their construction process by providing an outstanding warranty. In order to make sure that your new home is living up to your standards a warranty representative will meet with you once you have lived in your home for 60 days and then again at 11 months. After that time period you will have a reputable 10 year warranty through Quality Builder Warranty.

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Timberstone Homes not only wants to give customers everything they can, but they also give back to the community. Recently they teamed up with the Charlotte Checkers hockey team and are “Working together to Build a Better Future” for the residents of Charlotte and the surrounding communities. This campaign originally took off when they first helped Zack Bennett, a Checkers fan who suffers from a genetic disorder that affects his nervous system, move into a new home in Charlotte to follow his favorite team. “We are now utilizing this campaign in 2011 and 2012 by providing children with developmental disabilities special equipment and tools that they need in the classroom” explains Curtis McCurry, Division Manager for Timberstone Homes. “As an extension of this project we are building a model home in our new community Hackberry Place, in Concord, NC, which features a sensory room which is outfitted to meet the needs of children with Autism.”

Learn more about Timberstone Homes and their beautiful communities online at timberstone-homes.com In August they are offering their “Sizzling Hot Summer Special” which is an outdoor living package when you purchase a home at any of the 23 Charlotte area communities.

With great customer service and quality construction, Timberstone Homes can offer you a very pleasant and easily transitional experience when buying your next home. Start your custom experience today! Happy home buying!

Elizabeth Solitario

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IN FOCUS photos by: Eun Park

IN FOCUS photos by: Eun Park

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IN FOCUS photos by: Eun Park

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