South Charlotte, NC October 2023

Farewell to Summer and Other Things!

October always brings change.  Summer is completely behind us and hopefully the oppressive heat too.  Many other routines will end and have already changed.  As we leave many things behind, we're more excited than ever about the season ahead!  We're thankful for all we've learned and even more excited about all the contributions we're going to make as we move forward.  There are many blessings when cracked windows close and doors open even wider.

This issue is an ode to the past and gives insight into an exciting future ahead.  Our friends at Zinicola exemplify the best in great Italian food and marketing partnerships.  Visit Zinicola in Ballantyne Village for great charcuterie like on our Cover and book your next event with Michelle Harun, General Manager.  The private dining rooms are the best in South Charlotte!

We thank all our partners and associates for their continued support and deep relationships.  In addition to an article about Zinicola being a great place for your next event, our October issue has feature articles on bringing your favorite people together in your home, sharing Fall libations, and how we can help bring more awareness to Breast Cancer.  Don't ever stop believing that we can win the fight against this dreadful disease in the same way that you continue to believe in yourself - no matter what they say about you.  Remember, we're all winners!

Let's fast forward ahead into a new season South Charlotte!

LYN COALDWELL, PUBLISHER @SOUTHCHARLOTTELIFESTYLE

October 2023

PUBLISHER

Lyn Coaldwell | lyn.coaldwell@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Carol Long | carol.long@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Melissa Latin | melissa@charlottefashionplate.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Melinda Burris | mbwillms@gmail.com

SALES SUPPORT

Alexandra Rothman alexandrarothman10@gmail.com

SALES SUPPORT

Nelson Sweezy | nsweezym22@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Ann Brewer, Michelle Harun

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

L. Wollf Photography, Dr. Shirley Aluko, Michelle Harun

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

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city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

1: Resembling her mom and dad, Jay-Z, Blue Ivy is on her way to becoming a superstar too 2: Blue Ivy has all the right moves during a performance with her mom and the dancers 3: Bank of America stadium underwent a five day transformation to accommodate Beyonce's elaborate set and performance 4: Her moves, her energy and her beauty resulted in a dynamic performance at the stadium 5: The elegance of the dancers and their performance was exceptional to see 6: Our friends Dr. Shirley and Dr. Yele Aluko at Bank of America stadium enjoying the Beyonce concert 7: Beyonce, the Queen Bey, dressed and performing perfectly in black

8: Her talents make her worthy of being the first woman to headline a concert at the stadium 9: The multi-million dollar set and features were breathtaking 10: Dr. Shirley and friends were gleaming with joy while waiting for the concert to begin 11: Box seats in the stadium provided the best view of the elaborate set and performance 12: People came from all over to witness Beyonce's World Renaissance Tour which began in Sweden 13: Style, grace and beauty were everywhere at Bank of America stadium on a memorable Wednesday night 14: Beautiful, classy people were all smiles in anticipation of a wonderful show

1: Kids at Carmel Christian School study the plants they are growing in the school's garden 2: Great soil, water, sunlight and gentle care produces greens soon ready to be served 3: The students along with their teacher examine the plants in the garden to check their progress 4: Tender loving care and special attention will produce great garden to table greens to enjoy 5: These greens are ready to be served up in a delicious salad 6: It's exciting to show off a hefty load of greens to the other students 7: This CCS student has a special fondness for greens

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25

1: Homer, the Charlotte Knight's mascot, welcomed more than 900 registered participants from

different states 2: This year's 24 Hour Booty event raised more than $1.6 million for Cancer programs 3: Participants either rode, walked, ran or rucked in Charlotte's Myers Park neighborhood to

ARTICLE BY ANN BREWER

Enjoy a Gathering at Your Home

BRINGING FAMILY AND FRIENDS TOGETHER

The summer is over and the weather is cooler so let's get together at our house on the porch, in the yard or all over the house!  It may not be perfect, you may not have the best of everything or your home may not be an interior designer's showplace but it's home and when they love you they will love visiting you at your home too.  Just invite the people you know who will accept you and your home just the way you and your house are.  Don't make the experience so stressful that you won't be able to enjoy your guests.  Don't worry about inviting the people who may stand in judgment of you.  Make it a pleasant experience.

WILL YOUR KIDS BE INCLUDED IN THE ENTERTAINMENT EQUATION?

Don't include your kids if they are going to be miserable.  If your guests are bringing their kids then you'll need to make sure you have proper accommodations and activities for them to enjoy.  Otherwise, think about having your kids visit another home or venue if they will not be included in the plans for your adult guests.

DO YOU HAVE ENOUGH CHAIRS FOR SEATING?

Even though some guests may prefer standing, I suggest you move chairs into your entertaining areas from other areas in your home

so you can offer everyone a seat, in particular when they are eating.

FOCUS ON THE BIG IMPACT ITEMS ON YOUR TO DO LIST

FOR MAKING YOUR HOUSE ENTERTAINMENT READY.

Is the bathroom clean and working properly?  Have paper products readily available for replacements as needed. That's much more important than if you've dusted your baseboards or if your pantry is organized.  It may not be necessary to mop all the floors or vacuum all the carpet flooring but you'll want to make sure everything is off the floor.  You want to eliminate trip hazards and situations which may cause problems for your guests.  Move the clutter into storage areas even if temporarily until you have more time to file away or put away items permanently.

WHAT'S THE BEST PLACE FOR YOUR PETS?

Since your pets may not enjoy being with your guests then you may want to move them into a space where they will be more comfortable and your guests will too.

KEEP IT SIMPLE! NO NEED TO OVERLY DECORATE.

People who really want to enjoy their visit don't expect all that.  Invite the people who appreciate you and want to see you and your other guests and do not have great expectations for your overdoing it.

SERVE SIMPLE FOODS THAT DON'T REQUIRE A LOT OF WORK.

You don't want to be trapped in the kitchen or working on the grill for long periods of time.  Don't choose foods to serve that you'll have to work really hard to keep hot or cold.  Simply put, most of your guests just want food and drinks.  They will not be that selective unless they have special food needs or exceptions.  Ask about their special needs before they visit.

THEY WILL LIKELY NOT EXPECT THE FULL SERVICE TREATMENT IF THEY ARE VISITING YOU AT YOUR HOME.   Serve them food on disposable products if you're going to be overly burdened getting dirty dishes into the dishwasher later.

IS THE TEMPERATURE RIGHT?

Typically, it's best to set the thermometer a few degrees lower than normal when you have a house full of guests.  It's much easier for the person who gets a little chilly to grab a sweater than it is to control a guest's total meltdown when they get too hot, especially when they're drinking alcohol.

WHEN WILL THEY LEAVE?

Most guests will know when to leave but if you are ready to shut things down the best thing to do is signal them with your increase in cleaning up and shutting down the lights.  They'll usually know when it's time.  Control the alcohol throughout the gathering because you don't want them to leave intoxicated.  Offer coffee or water if needed and always be prepared to offer a pillow and a blanket if someone needs time to sleep it off.

It's been a good gathering my friends!

Don’t make the experience so stressful that you won’t be able to enjoy your guests.  Don’t worry about inviting the people who may stand in judgment of you.  Make it a pleasant experience.

BY ANN BREWER

OCTOBER IS BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

ARTICLE

HOW WE CAN HELP END THIS DREADFUL DISEASE

As we celebrate October and all the changes it will bring, let’s remember the one thing that remains constant year after year.  Remember this is the month of ‘PINK’.  Pink is everywhere during October to make us more aware of breast health and breast cancer which ravages new patients every year.  Let’s think about what we can do to help.

First of all, we can be responsible for our own breast health and wellness by committing to scheduling our own annual mammogram this year.

Then, we want to remind our friends, family, co-workers, associates, and acquaintances to do the same.  Help guide them through the process if necessary by going with them or just make sure they have the information about locations where services are available and help them know what to expect to remove any fears or doubts.

Last but not least, we can all participate in activities and events that support the fight

against breast cancer.  If you can’t walk or participate in an event, then you can write a check and get others to do the same to help find solutions for this dreadful disease.

One lesser-known organization to support is the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF).  It was founded as a result of the personal experience of breast cancer survivor, Janelle Hail, in 1991. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1980 at the age of 34. At the time of her diagnosis, there was little information about the disease, and she was forced to make a decision about her health with few options.

After her treatment, Janelle made a commitment to help women around the world by educating them about breast cancer and the importance of early detection.

NBCF wants you to know that you are never alone during your fight against breast cancer. The organization offers free, innovative programs that other organizations may not be providing to women facing breast cancer.

According to their website, NBCF is one of the most recognized and respected breast cancer charities in the world. NBCF has received the highest 4-star rating by Charity Navigator, America’s premier charity evaluator, for 16 years. On average, 80% of their expenses are directed to life-saving programs.

Find out more information about their programs at nationalbreastcancer.org .

Of course, we can never forget about Susan G. Komen and all the good work the organization does in their crusade to extinguish breast cancer.  Even though their Walk in Charlotte was held in September this year, you can still give to support their good cause.  Go to komen.org for more information about their programs, their next events, and to find out how to give.

ENTERTAINING WITH FALL DRINKS

ARTICLE BY ANN BREWER

Apple Cider Mocktail Mocktails

It’s time to shake things up!  October is the perfect month for trying something new for fall especially if you’re ready to go without alcohol.

Let’s shake up a perfectly chilled spiced apple cider mocktail at your next fall party!   It can easily be made into a cocktail too by just adding your favorite liquor, vodka, gin, bourbon, or spiced rum.

Non-alcoholic martinis made from apple cider or other fruit juices can be fun and exciting.  They can typically be made in about 5 minutes using a shaker filled with whatever appeals to your taste buds.

Consider adding cinnamon ginger syrup, cinnamon spices, pumpkin puree or pumpkin spices to apple cider or another fruit juice and then add sparkling water to crushed ice and shake.  You want to make sure all your ingredients are chilled since you’ll only just shake your ingredients in the shaker over the ice but not include the ice in your drink.

Prepare your long stem or martini glass by moving the rim of your glass over a bed of brown sugar for a finishing touch before pouring your drink into the glass.  Consider using chocolate powder or salt too as an option.

Garnish your drink with Apple, lemon, or lime slices, mint leaves, cherries, berries, or other fruit slices and add cinnamon sticks too if you’d like.

These drinks are usually served cool and refreshing with a hint of warmth, but apple cider mocktails can be served warm or hot too, perfect for a cool fall night on the porch.

Share the flavor and enjoy!

Apple Cider Mocktail with Pumpkin

Apple Cider Mocktail Heavy on Brown Sugar

OCTOBER IS THE PERFECT MONTH FOR TRYING SOMETHING NEW FOR FALL ESPECIALLY IF YOU’RE READY TO GO WITHOUT ALCOHOL.

Apple Cider Hot Toddy

OJ and Apple Halloween Mocktail

Apple Cider Mocktail with Carmel Syrup and Creme

Host Your Next Event at Zinicola Italian Restaurant

At Zinicola, everyone understands the importance of privacy and a range of private rooms are offered to cater to your group whether it be a small intimate setting, or a very large business gathering.  They also offer private set menus that are customizable to your specific needs.

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE HARUN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHELLE HARUN AND PROVIDED

For smaller gatherings, their intimate private room can comfortably seat up to 14 guests. This setting is ideal for hosting a small birthday celebration or a family reunion, where you can enjoy each other’s company in a relaxed setting.

If you require a slightly larger space, their second private room can accommodate up to 22 guests.  It provides an ideal setting for hosting business luncheons or small networking events.

For more sizable gatherings, a spacious private room is offered that can seat up to 35 guests. This versatile setting is perfect for hosting bridal showers, anniversary parties, or even a happy hour with your coworkers.

For other larger occasions, the largest private room would be perfect, with the capacity to accommodate up to 65 guests.

This room is the ideal choice for hosting business dinners, rehearsal dinners, charity events, or large family celebrations.

Zinicola’s pastas and pizzas are hand-made and ingredients in all their dishes, sauces and desserts are made fresh with many items grown locally.  Nothing at Zinicola is store bought.

Their bar is extensive and includes everything from fine wines to the finest liquors found anywhere.  Zinicola non-alcoholic drinks are a hit too!

Chef Richard Cranmer is also the owner. He often talks about how he learned his cooking skills from his ‘nonna’ and ‘madre’.

His mother was the typical Italian mother who cooked everyday.  Richard learned from watching his mother cook and learned even more from watching his grandmother when the family traveled to Italy every summer.  He watched her make family meals from scratch and they brought recipes back home with them.

Richard has a passion and love for food and cooking and Italy is where it all began.  He used that passion and love to open Zinicola and it drives him today to make Zinicola one of the best restaurants in Ballantyne.  He makes his restaurant and its food as much like what you’d find in Italy as if you’re visiting there.

The food is not just something you taste at Zinicola, you can become absorbed in it and the ambience in the restaurant is a feeling that you can become attached to.  His cooking is an act of love that you can really feel.

Next time you need a private space to host your special event, consider their selection of private rooms. Experience the exclusivity of their private spaces, where unforgettable memories are made.  The food and drinks will definitely not disappoint either.  Reach out to Michelle Harun, event consultant, for help with planning your next fabulous event.  She is experienced with planning events and she can help you create the event of your dreams and much more!  Call her at 980.299.2979.  For more information about Zinicola, visit zinicolaitalian.com Zinicola is located at 14835 Ballantyne Village Way, Charlotte, NC, 28277.

Michelle Harun, General Manager

Greetings

from

AUSTIN TX

ARTICLE BY MINDY HARGESHEIMER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY VISIT AUSTIN AND PROVIDED

The capital city of Texas is best known for having a personality of its own, one bursting with foodie and fashion finds, outdoor activities and “Austintatious” art creations, a booming sphere of pro sports experiences (we see you Formula 1 and Austin FC), and seven days a week of live music to boot. Did we mention it’s sunny nearly 300 days a year? It’s time to get away!

It’s no secret that people are flocking to Austin. What’s not to love about the warm weather, vast culinary scene and the ability to recreationally paddle board through the city limits? Add to that the attractive walkability it offers, letting you fuel your explorative side amid the hustle and bustle of the downtown scene without ever needing a ride.

Sunny most days of the year, Austin is recognized for a myriad of outdoor experiences which you can experience both in downtown Austin with scenic views of the skyline, as well as the surrounding area, including local treasure, Lady Bird Lake. Kayak, hike, bike and swim your way around the great Austin outdoors and enjoy one of the city’s most fantastic offerings that inspires people to get outside and play together.

When it comes to luxury accommodations, one of the most stunning hotels in Austin is the Commodore Perry Estate. This striking and historic property, once a 10,800-square-foot private mansion known to host Jazz era social extravaganzas, has been transformed into a modern and European-influenced spectacular resort now open to the public. Enjoy the architectural details, white-glove service, in-room Austin purveyor displays, and sophisticated, Southern-style meals.

Speaking of meals, Austin is renowned for pleasing palates, with an exceptional restaurant scene, including barbecue and tacos as its true soul foods. Pair your tacos with queso and the must-have margaritas for an authentic Tex-Mex meal, or indulge in Austin’s quintessential barbecue. It all started with Franklin Barbecue, helmed by Aaron Franklin who was the first pitmaster to win a James Beard award for Best Chef, which was inducted into the

American Royal Hall of Fame and was credited for ushering in a new era of food into the city. Austin’s slow-cooked, fall-off-the-bone brisket is a mouth-watering experience not to miss.

Beyond barbecue and Tex-Mex is an entire mix of palate pleasers, from upscale Mediterranean and Asian to James Beard award-winning eateries. Geraldine’s inside Hotel Van Zandt is one of Austin’s iconic Rainey Street destinations. Equal parts restaurant, bar, rooftop and live music venue, Geraldine’s overlooks beautiful Lady Bird Lake and offers 4th floor cabanas, a nightly concert lineup and a chef’s contemporary menu.

Perhaps a hidden gem is Austin’s mark on the forefront of the booming food truck scene, a foundation for famed, award-winning chefs getting started before getting the funding to open their own brick and mortars. Whether you indulge in one in a gas station parking lot or parked next to a music venue, you’ll find them all over town, serving up a variety of dishes to be devoured.

But first you should start your day with a cup of joe from Jo’s Coffee. Known for its iconic “i love you so much” mural-clad exterior on South Congress Avenue, patrons come for the hot coffee, good food, cold beer and people-watching. The creative menu includes everything from its house blend to its Cowboy Cookie Cold Brew you can pair with a hash brown or local-favorite “migas” taco.

As for Austin’s retail and local maker scene, the possibilities are endless and elevated. 2ND Street District boasts a mix of boutiques and shops to get your fashion fix and new home decor. For the gentlemen, embrace the full district experience, shopping League of Rebels , a bespoke experience with tailor made lifestyle wear, or Bonobos , the pioneers of custom fit chinos. Then enjoy a fresh shave from Austin’s premier Finley’s Barber Shop

For the women, shop local and find the perfect gift for yourself or someone you love from Luxe Apothetique, then drape yourself in artisan jewelry from Eliza Page before falling for the modern designs from Blu Dot.

The capital city of Texas is best known for having a personality of its own, one bursting with foodie and fashion finds, outdoor activities and “Austintatious” art creations, a booming sphere of pro sports experiences (we see you Formula 1 and Austin FC), and seven days a week of live music to boot. Did we mention it’s sunny nearly 300 days a year? It’s time to GET AWAY!

Follow some retail therapy, head over to Upstairs Circus , a unique concept where DIY meets the bar; pick your project, enjoy a libation, create a masterpiece and be merry.

Or shop The Domain district in North Austin, a newer shopping center offering upscale hotels and fantastic restaurants. Shop luxury brands such as Saint Laurent Paris and Gucci and reward yourself with sweet and savory bites from a multitude of eateries. Nearby is the home of the new Austin FC Major League Soccer team, so you can take in a professional soccer match as part of your metropolitan experience, cheering on the club team partially owned by Matthew McConaughy. Even if you’re not a soccer fan, the energy is incredible, and the stadium is a stunner.

Other Austin districts worth checking out include well-known South Congress Avenue . You can stroll boutiques and additional eateries and check out the uniquely converted bungalows that now offer day and nightlife entertainment destinations.

While East Austin is a larger neighborhood, the depth of culture here is noteworthy. Six Square is Austin’s premier Black Cultural District near the beautiful grounds of the Texas State Cemetery.

And, as one would expect, you’ll find a plethora of great restaurants such as local favorites la Barbecue and Bird Bird Biscuit that was just listed as one of Yelp’s Top 5 restaurants to eat at in America. Now let’s talk about live music. Whatever your scene is, you’ll find it here and, well, everywhere. From your airport arrival, to the open air around you, and then hopping from neighborhood to neighborhood, Austin is filled with live music. You’ll find musicians performing at world-famous festivals, intimate clubs, coffee houses, and even the corner taqueria. With hundreds of live music venues, you have plenty of options available to soak up the sounds.

ACL Live at The Moody Theater is home to the beloved Austin City Limits television show and hosts about 100 concerts year round. Tour the venue, select your show and find everything from country to rock, hip-hop, rap, jazz and blues.

With its true passion for its unparalleled live music scene, its championing of local creators and small business owners, and its celebration of its enriching arts and culture offerings, Austin avows a personality all its own and should be next on your playlist. We love it so much!

Photography Aubrie Pick

Photography Visit Austin

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

OCTOBER 7TH

Giddy Up for Go Jen Go at Horse Lovers Day

LEATHERMAN LANE, 9101 OVERCASH RD, CONCORD | 10:00 AM

Get ready to saddle up for the Third Annual Horse Lovers Day – Breast Cancer Event. The fall festival will take place from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.  Benefiting Go Jen Go, the event will feature trail and pony rides, vendors, food trucks, entertainment, sack races, and a raffle. In addition, HerScan will be onsite performing breast ultrasounds for those who schedule an appointment.  gojengo.org

OCTOBER 7TH

Luke Bryan: Country on Tour 2023

PNC MUSIC PAVILLION, CHARLOTTE | 7:00 PM

Luke Bryan is an American country singer, songwriter and television personality who is a five-time "Entertainer of the Year", being awarded by both the Academy of Country Music Awards and the Country Music Association.  He is one of the world's best-selling music artists, with over 75 million records sold.  lukebryan.com

OCTOBER 21ST

2023 Walk to End Alzheimer's - Charlotte

TRUIST FIELD, 324 S MINT ST, CHARLOTTE | 10:00 AM

All funds raised through Walk to End Alzheimer's further the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer's Association.  There is no registration fee for the walk, however every participant is requested to make a personal donation and commit to raising funds in the fight against Alzheimer's.  Each registered participant will receive a Promise Garden flower.  act.alz.org

OCTOBER 21ST

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Greater Charlotte

SYMPHONY PARK AT SOUTHPARK MALL, CHARLOTTE | 9:00 AM

Making Strides has always been more than just a walk, it's a movement.  They are making it easier for anyone, anywhere to make an impact.  The future can be free from breast cancer, and you are being asked to join the movement and to sign up to save lives.  All proceeds raised goes towards breast cancer research, education, advocacy and patient support.  sharecharlotte.org

OCTOBER 26TH

Dave Chapelle Live!

SPECTRUM CENTER, CHARLOTTE | 7:30 PM

Dave Chapelle is an American stand-up comedian and actor. In 2006, he was called the “comic genius of America” by Esquire and, in 2013, “the best” by a Billboard writer. In 2017, Rolling Stone ranked him No. 9 in their “50 Best Stand Up Comics of All Time”. spectrumcenter.ticketsoffice.org

OCTOBER 27TH - 28TH

Euge Groove

MIDDLE C JAZZ, 300 S BREVARD ST, CHARLOTTE

Euge Groove (Steven Eugene Grove) is an American smooth jazz saxophonist.  To quote All About Jazz , “Euge Groove has a knack for memorable melodies and for coaxing the max out of his sax - it growls, hits impossibly low notes and always sounds like it’s the way the instrument was meant to sound.”  eugegroove.com

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realty report

A sample of recently sold properties in South Charlotte.

This data is a sampling of sold properties from August 2023. Source: IRES MLS system. *DOM=Days on Market

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