Explore hidden, outdoor gems located in the Charlotte area!
Explore the Possibilities
We live in an efficiency and productivity-obsessed age. And I admit - I fall into the trap sometimes too. The trap of believing the only things worth doing are those for which I can make an exact calculation of the time, effort and investment it will cost me. The things that result in the highest level of control and least amount of uncertainty.
But the truth is that is really a sad and unfulfilling way to go through life.
We must leave some room for exploring, for trying new places and things, for being a beginner, even for getting lost. It is those times that are unstructured and open-ended where the space exists for connections to be made, friendships to be fostered and trust to be built.
When I purchased this publication last August, I was very excited but nervous at the same time. I started a new journey later in my career life when most are looking at the retirement light at the end of the tunnel. I never imagined how amazing, fulfilling and inspiring this new opportunity would bring through all of the amazing people I have met and spent time with. I am so thankful for the new direction and experiences that have been gifted to me on this journey.
In the last few months I’ve really been analyzing my relationship with my kids, how our family operates as a unit and what we love spending our time doing. The way I made this more clear, was to first focus on the things that I don’t love spending time on. For our family - it’s screens. For yours, it may be too many busy weeknights away from home or not enough dinners around the table together. But I’ve noticed that “adventures” and “exploration” doesn’t even have to be something big and crazy. It can be playing a board game out on the patio, walking a new trail or going out to find a fun cookie place we’ve never been to before in a different part of town.
Our hope is that this issue encourages you to make room for exploration. To prioritize time away from the regular schedule of life. To lose yourself on a trail or in a book. To book that trip you’ve been thinking about, to make time for the things that matter most to you, but often come last on the calendar.
A LENHARD, PUBLISHER
July 2024
PUBLISHER
Teri A Lenhard | teri.lenhard@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Kylie Brooks | kylie.brooks@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Brooklyn Brown, Michelle Parnell, Erin Webber
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Izzy Olson, Matty Martin, Jordan Rogers, Brooklyn Brown
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Collins
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
Proverbs 3:5-6
JOIN US FOR COMMUNITY CONNECTION AND RESOURCE
Wealth Increase Collaboration a Business Networking Event bringing local businesses in the community together
July 3, 2024/ 12:00-1:30pm / Open Tap Beer Garden 5010 Carmel Road, Charlotte
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1 — 5: Beautiful shots captured at Amodernary Furniture Designs! 6 — 7: Community Kitchen Cafe Grand Opening at Scott Clark Toyota Showroom
BROOKLYN BROWN @MATTYMARTINPHOTOGRAPHY
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business monthly
Chess Klub
CHESS KLUB is a global leader in both online and in-person chess education. Through our expert mentorship, students quickly uncover their unique playing style. We offer a comprehensive and enriching experience, guiding students through various stages of mastery. Our vision is to build the world’s premier chess ecosystem, empowering beginners to master the game and grow as individuals. In Charlotte, you can find CHESS KLUB at three convenient locations: Fort Mill, Ballantyne, and Concord.
Jordan Christine Photo
Hi, I’m Jordan! A documentary-style wedding photographer based in Peachland, NC with a passion for capturing the raw emotions that make each wedding unique. I believe that photography is more than just taking pictures; it’s an art form & I love what I do! I’m excited to be partnering with SC City Lifestyle this year because of all of the wonderful opportunities to connect with business owners and be a part of the local community.
Baker Motor Company
Since opening in 1988, Baker Motor Company expanded its portfolio to include 11 different brands, a world-class collision center, and a luxury rental car company. We prioritize community support by donating trees, sponsoring Children’s Hospital events, and backing local parks and charities. We carry a diverse range of luxury vehicles including Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Land Rover, Jaguar, Infiniti, Maserati, Alfa Romeo, Cadillac, GMC, and Mercedes-Benz Vans, embodying our commitment to exceptional automotive experiences and community engagement.
Photography by @jordan.christinephoto
O'KEEFE
RECHARGING YOUR SOUL IN
Travel is no longer just a luxury, it’s an investment that has the power to enrich our lives in ways that traditional financial investments cannot. It broadens our horizons, enhances personal and professional growth, and allows you to recharge your mind and body.
Crystal-clear waters and perfectly white sandy beaches await to recharge the spirits of all weary travelers.
Cancún is known around the world as one of Mexico’s finest tourist destinations. Steeped in the rich history of the Mexican Caribbean, Cancún offers visitors the best that the Yucatán Peninsula has to offer. Whether you are coming for the all-inclusive resort experience or are looking to enjoy the seemingly never-ending gorgeous beaches, Cancún has it all. Unbelievably fresh and delicious seasonal cuisine, great weather, a rich cultural history, exquisitely clear turquoise blue Caribbean waters, and vibrant coral reefs are all waiting for you to explore when you arrive.
Nature lovers, environmentalists, thrill seekers, and luxury destination travel enthusiasts all have a place to call home in Cancún. Boulevard Kukulkan, more commonly known as the Hotel Zone, is home to Cancún’s most luxurious all-inclusive hotels and boasts some of the city’s finest restaurants, nightclubs, and shopping centers. This fifteen-mile-long sand bar separates the Caribbean Sea from the Laguna Inchoate. The brackish waters of
the lagoon’s nature reserve and Mangrove ecosystem offer an exciting, ecologically friendly look into the rich natural history of Cancún. On the other side of the boulevard, crystal-clear waters and perfectly white sandy beaches await to recharge the spirits of all weary travelers.
The JW Marriott Resort and Spa is the place to stay while in Cancún. You'll be met by the most gracious of staff and a high level of service is standard across the property. This impeccably designed resort features multiple pools, an incredible spa, countless delicious restaurants, and a delightful lobby bar featuring over 150 signature margaritas.
Caring for the mind and body should be an essential part of everyone’s travel. A little physical exercise is a necessary element of any vacation for me. Puerto Maya Cancún combines a look into the historical Mayan culture of the Yucatán followed by an amazing speed boat tour of both the lagoon and the sea. And, just when you think it can’t get any better, it’s time to jump in and swim around. Snorkeling on the vibrant coral reefs and visiting MUSA, the Cancun Underwater Museum of Art, absolutely recharges the mind, body, and soul. It is an incredible workout!
If you care to go a little further out of the city, Cenotes Zapote Eco-Tour awaits. Cenotes are natural sinkholes that expose cool, refreshing, groundwater
that is both invigorating and spiritually refreshing at the same time. There are over 6000 cenotes on the Yucatán, each one is unique and otherworldly. Floating or frolicking in the cool waters inside the earth is the ultimate spa experience. There are zip lines or diving platforms at most cenotes and they are well worth experiencing.
While it is nice to explore the “Hotel Zone”, you don't have to leave the hotel to experience fine international dining at its best!
Sacbé Beach Shack, located in the adjoining Marriott property was beyond belief. Situated directly on the sandy beaches beneath the hotel, the "beach shack" is a whimsically designed bar and dining room offering a perfect oceanside culinary experience. The freshest local ingredients were artfully combined to create a scrumptious offering that highlights regional Mexican cuisines. The mezcal lab experience with famed Master Mezcalier, Chef Benjamín Nava Vargas was an unexpected treat and opened a door to a delicious understanding and appreciation of small-batch mezcals.
Other JW Marriott Resort and Spa culinary treasures include Hana Polynesian Grill’s themed dining room. Perfectly crafty cocktails paired wonderfully with the authentic Polynesian Islands menu. The evening’s festivities were highlighted by a completely themed costumed troupe of singers and dancers performing time-honored Polynesian fire dances. While visiting, be sure to explore Kasai Izakaya, Club 91, and Bravo, a very fresh take on modern Spanish cuisine.
And, when it feels like it’s time to leave the hotel again, check out Chambao Cancún. Just think of it as an interactive curated dinner theatre experience with pop-up music, dance, fashion, and acrobatic activations staged throughout the evening.
Cancún should be at the top of everyone’s travel list in 2024. Trust me, you can thank me later. JW-Marriott.marriott.com
ARTICLE BY EMILY O’BRIEN
See The Best of Asheville
THIS QUAINT MOUNTAIN TOWN IS A CULTURAL HOT SPOT AND THE PERFECT DESTINATION FOR A WEEKEND AWAY.
Smith-McDowell House Museum
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville offers a charming blend of culture, a bustling music scene and a picturesque outdoor enthusiast’s playground. At less than a 3-hour drive, it’s perfect for anyone planning a quick “no fuss” refreshing trip to unwind and recharge.
Asheville’s melting pot of artisans makes it a prime destination for eclectic art. Watch and learn glass-blowing techniques at North Carolina Glass Center or discover one-ofa-kind finds to bring home at Asheville Emporium. Its food and beverage scene boasts more than 250 independent restaurants, 12 James Beard-nominated individuals and 50+ breweries. Each meal could be devoted to your group’s favorite cuisines, like Indian street food at Chai Mani, Southern fare at Rhubarb or Mexican entrees at Limones Restaurant. The possibilities are endless.
For those who like to learn and stroll, Asheville offers a 2-hour casual urban walking tour rich with history. A good place to begin is in Asheville’s Pack Square. Feel free to head “off trail” for a beer break at Top of the Monk or Foggy Mountain Brew Pub. Later, grab a coffee at Izzy’s or High Five and take a scenic drive through the 469-mile-long Blue Ridge Parkway, pulling over periodically to admire the landscape, old historic buildings and farmsteads. Then soak in the colorful sunset at Soprana, Embassy Suites’ new rooftop restaurant, which serves locally sourced Italian cuisine and fresh herbs from its own garden, with IG-worthy city views. Later in the evening, opportunities to see live music abound at iconic venues like The Orange Peel, Grey Eagle or Salvage Station. The next day, spend the morning hiking Douglas Falls, Deep Creek or Rainbow Falls trails to spot one (or multiple) waterfalls. Relax and repeat!
Soak in architectural beauties from the Art Nouveau, Beaux-Art and Deco movements along one of 12 stops on Asheville’s Architecture Trail tour, starting at First Baptist Church. Whether you’re drawn to historic houses, geology and astronomy or fine arts, there is something for everyone, such as Smith-McDowell House Museum, Asheville Museum of Science and Asheville Art Museum, respectively. Admirers of the late author Thomas Wolfe can also spend a day learning more about his life, touring his childhood Victorian home.
Roughly 10 minutes from downtown, the 250-room historic Biltmore mansion is modeled after three French châteaux. It’s the largest private residence in the country. Work from globally-renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly will be on display all summer.
Blue Ridge Mountains
Soprana Pizza
charlotte outdoors
Getting to know the greater Charlotte area? What better way than by exploring the great… outdoors! Here’s a round-up of five top open-air spots in the area.
Little Sugar Creek Greenway | Accessible from Park Road Park, the paved greenway boasts over 19 miles from NoDa to South Carolina.
Rail Trail | This urban trail runs through South End along the light rail tracks. Get active while enjoying shops and dining!
Riverwalk | Located in Rock Hill, SC, this paved 2.5-mile walkway offers scenic views of the Catawba River.
Whitewater Center | The Whitewater Center offers climbing, ropes courses, ziplines, mountain biking, trails, yoga, whitewater rafting, and Stillwater activities
Crowders Mountain | Journey to the mountain for up to 20 miles of hiking trails, fishing, camping, bouldering, and more!
Erin Webber, a South Charlotte local, has been an outdoor enthusiast in the area for the past 9 years. She’s thrilled to partner with City Lifestyle magazine to condense her years of hiking adventures across greater NC into an accessible list of local favorites for readers. Now get out, take a deep breath, and experience the magic of the outdoors.
Catawba River Walk
UNIQUE
LOCAL EATS
Exploring six of the best local dining spots in Charlotte
ARTICLE BY BROOKLYN BROWN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JORDAN ROGERS
Hestia Rooftop offers a unique fine-dining experience. The Asian-fusion-styled cuisine combines salient flavors with an eye-catching presentation for an all-encompassing feast of the senses. The best part is that its location atop Panorama Tower provides a birds-eye view of the city to guests who dine in.
OGGI Ristorante Italiano serves made-fromscratch traditional Italian-style dishes. Guests will find the casual, yet cultivated, environment provides the perfect atmosphere for any occasion. Visiting diners can choose from various comforting menu options—but everyone should be sure to try OGGI’s lasagna, as it’s considered the best in the city.
Mary O’Neill’s Irish Pub is Waxhaw’s own little pot of gold, except you don’t have to follow a rainbow to find it– look for the town’s staple water tower and you’ll see the pub right beside it. The homey feel of the Pub makes it an excellent place to enjoy a great pint, southern-inspired cuisine, and some good conversation.
1. HESTIA ROOFTOP
2. OGGI RISTORANTE ITALIANO
3. MARY O’NEILLS IRISH PUB
Pio Pio Chicken brings a piece of Peru to North Carolina with their saporous Peruvian cuisine. Although best known for its chicken, hence the name, Pio Pio has a diverse menu that offers something for everyone’s taste buds. Pio Pio Chicken is a great spot for a casual date night with a Latin flare.
Whether you are planning to go completely vegan or just trying to add more plants to your diet, VegGeez Plant-Based Eatery is a great place to try. The colorful and flavor-filled dishes might have meat eaters turning to the green side after their first bite.
Sanctuary Bistro offers inspired vegan cuisine dishes that are good for your body, the planet, and the community. A portion of all proceeds are donated to local non-profit organizations. Its mission to spread positivity and raise awareness through food creates a feel-good experience for everyone who dines there.
5. PIO PIO CHICKEN
6. SANCTUARY BISTRO
4. VEGGEEZ PLANTBASED EATERY
EXPLORING WAXHAW
Discover a community with a rich heritage and fun, local flair
Summertime creates the perfect opportunity to get out of the house or office, experience adventures, and explore the community. For guidance on local must-see stops and places to explore, we turned to Waxhaw resident, Museum of the Waxhaws board member, and Union County third grade teacher Meagan Plyler.
“My family moved here in 1991, so I grew up here,” shared Plyler. “My husband, William, and I met in second grade at Waxhaw Elementary. His family has been in Waxhaw since 1756, so his family history here goes back a long way. We have always known that we wanted to raise our family in Waxhaw because we have deep roots in Waxhaw and have always loved the town.”
Combining her passion for the community with her love of history, Plyler began pouring her time and energy into educating others about the area and its historic significance. In 2013, she founded a Facebook page focusing on local history called Waxhaw’s History, which currently has over 26, 000 followers. The page not only shares interesting historical information and photographs, but also brings attention to community celebrations that highlight Waxhaw’s history and heritage.
When exploring Waxhaw, one of the first places Plyer recommends visiting is the Museum of the Waxhaws, which opened in 1992. “We’re the oldest regional history
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ARTICLE BY MICHELLE W. PARNELL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ISABELLE OLSON
museum in Union County and we have so much to offer,” she said. “Because we have been open for so long, we have had many local families donate artifacts to us, including artifacts dating back to the early Native Americans. We also have artifacts from every major war, including the Revolutionary War.”
The museum includes indoor exhibits with artifacts but also includes an outdoor exploration area which includes historic buildings that have been relocated to the museum property over the years.
“We have the Secrest cabin, which is a mid-1800s cabin that was donated by the Secrest family. The Secrests were family friends of Andrew Jackson, our seventh president, and his family,” she explained. “We also have the Nesbit Smokehouse, which is a historic building the family used to preserve meat, and the building that served as the oldest post office in Union County.”
After exploring the area’s history, Plyler recommends enjoying historic downtown Waxhaw, where the past and present merge to create a fun experience for each member of the family.
“Our historic area is so large and there is so much to do in the downtown area, all within walking distance,” Plyler shared. “We have North Main Street and South Main Street that are divided by a railroad track. A wooden bridge connects both sides and families can walk over the bridge to get to each side of downtown and even stay and watch the train. Then, what is so neat is how you can walk the whole strip starting with South Main Street with its historic buildings from the late 1800s, then cross over the bridge and go to North Main Street. On both sides of the tracks, there are so many businesses, restaurants, and different kinds of shops, some of which sell locally made items.”
The area includes a fun variety of restaurants and specialty shops in addition to an art studio for kids, a weekly farmers market during the summer, and other engaging community events. Outdoor recreational activities for all ages include visiting David Barnes Park, the Skate Park, and the new Waxhaw Downtown Park, which opened this spring.
The Carolina Suspension Bridge on the Carolina Thread Trail serves as a unique approach to crossing from North Carolina into South Carolina on foot. The
places to explore
waxhaw
Full of places to explore, shops to find gifts and treats, and historical landmarks, the town of Waxhaw is home to many attractions ready to be discovered and enjoyed.
• Historic Waxhaw Foot Bridge
• The Carolina Suspension Bridge on the Carolina Thread Trail
• Downtown Historic Waxhaw
• The Museum of the Waxhaws
• Waxhaw Creamery
• Crossroads Coffee
• Bean and Belle Children’s Art Studio
• Waxhaw Antique Mart
• Uptown Tea Shop
• Provisions Food and General Store
• Historic Waxhaw Woman’s Club Building
• Union County Southwest Regional Library
• Waxhaw Downtown Park
• David Barnes Park
bridge provides a scenic opportunity to traverse state lines while enjoying a bit of adventure since the suspension-built bridge sways and moves with the foot traffic.
In addition to exploring Waxhaw’s many attractions, summertime provides ample opportunity to find new ways to invest in the community through volunteering and serving alongside local organizations. For those within the city limits, there are various committees with which to serve such as the Historic Preservation and Beautification Committees. For women, the Waxhaw Women’s Club offers opportunities to be involved in the overall welfare of the community and is a great way to make new friends. The local chapters of the Lions and Rotary Clubs, the library, and other organizations also provide a plethora of fellowship and service opportunities.
When it comes to the Museum of the Waxhaws, Plyler shared that the museum operates almost exclusively through the hard work of volunteers, so there are always openings where people can serve.
“There are volunteers of all ages who serve as docents and facilitate guided tours. Other volunteers enjoy doing landscaping and beautification, which is helpful because we have about 20 acres of land that needs upkeep,” she said. “We also have volunteers who help with large events and field trips, upkeep and construction of our historical buildings, and we almost always need help at the front desk. We are community run and we welcome volunteers who have knowledge in just about any area.”
For more information and to explore upcoming local events, go to visitwaxhaw. com and follow the Town of Waxhaw on Facebook @townwaxhaw.
museum of the waxhaws
The Museum of the Waxhaws, which is located at 8215 Waxhaw Highway, is open Fridays and Saturdays 10:00am-3:00pm. For more information about exhibits and upcoming events, follow The Museum of the Waxhaw’s Facebook page and visit museumofthewaxhaws.org To schedule for groups of 25 or more, call 704-843-1832.
• Special Guided Tours - July 11 & 25
• Monday, July 8 at 10:00am – Nature Day
• Saturday, July 13 at 5:00pm – Mother & Son Date Night
• Monday, July 22 – Dinosaur Day
• Thursday, July 25 at 6:30pm – Trivia Thursday
• Saturday, July 27 at 10:00am – Colonial Day
• Special Guided Tours - August 8, 9, 22, & 23
CAUSE for a COOKING
HOW COMMUNITY KITCHEN IS CULTIVATING BRIGHT FUTURES AND CULINARY SUCCESS.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY BROOKLYN BROWN
While our unique differences might separate us, food is one of the best ways to bring everyone together again. Community Leadership Academy proves this with its Community Kitchen Program. By providing free culinary programs to disadvantaged groups and migrants, CKP nurtures positive human connection and offers its students real-life experience in the food industry. The CKP program is actively feeding communities and futures. According to the Community Leadership Academy’s official website, the CKP has, “a steadfast commitment to providing meals to various underserved populations, including the homeless, senior citizens, refugees, youth programs, first responders, and our esteemed veterans.”. On May 21, CKP celebrated the grand opening of their new café inside Scott Clark Toyota located on Marie Garris Rd in Matthews, NC. The idea for this expansionary project was initiated by Robel Mamo, the founder and CEO of Community Leadership Academy, and made possible by the dealership’s Director of Community Engagement, Rod Goodall. The event was filled with laughter, hugs, and optimistic faces with the
shared knowledge of the positive impact the café would have on the program’s mission. The Community Kitchen Café is more than just a workplace eatery; it’s a classroom, a charity, and a community. When customers and staff buy from the café, they are also helping to fund and ensure the longevity of the CKP. The chefs and servers, all affiliated with the CKP, can practice workplace development skills and earn their certifications. According to the CKP’s mission statement, “During their [10-week] course, our dedicated students have the invaluable opportunity to observe and learn from experienced professionals, immersing themselves in the art of food safety, preparation, hands-on cooking, and presentation.”
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
EVERY TUESDAY
Business Klub Ballantyne
14045 Ballantyne Corporate Place, Suite 101 28277 | 10:00 AM — 12:00 PM
Network with local professionals and business owners in this weekly “think tank” event, held every Tuesday and hosted by Business Klub
EVERY THURSDAY
Business Klub Fort Mill
852 Gold Hill Rd, Suite 101 Fort Mill, SC 29708 | 8:30 — 10:30 AM
Network with local professionals and business owners in this weekly “think tank” event, held every Thursday and hosted by Business Klub
JULY 3RD
Celebrate America! With Fireworks
Symphony Park | 8:00 AM
The Charlotte Symphony will be playing American-themed classics, and the night ends with a big firework show. Pack a picnic, bring the whole family.
JULY 3RD
Charlotte FC and Inter Miami CF
Bank of America Stadium | 7:30 PM
Head on over to uptown and enjoy a night full of soccer, fun and friends!
JULY 5TH
Sophia and Weekend Friend
Amos Southend | 8:00 PM
Enjoy an evening out in Southend, listening to some great local bands! Grab a drink after at one of the many amazing hang-outs that Southend has to offer!
JULY 6TH
Carowinds Summer Music Fest
5:00 PM
Beginning on July 6th, check out varying music artists at Carowinds Summer Music Fest! With performances from LeAnn Rimes, Toby Mac and many others, this will be a series you don’t want to miss!
Want to be featured?
JULY 9TH
Charlotte Knights vs Durham Bulls
Truist Field | 7:00 PM
Spend a night under the stars watching our local baseball team (hopefully) bring home a victory!
JULY 13TH
Making Sense Out of Home Buying
Pineville Library - Community Room | 9:00 AM
Join us at this seminar, hosted by WYTV7, and learn how to achieve your dream of owning a home and make smart financial decisions throughout this process.
JULY 15TH — 19TH
Hornets Hoops Summer Camp
Covenant Presbyterian Church | 9:00 AM
Get the kiddos out of the house this Summer and sign them up for Hornet’s Hoops camp where they will have the chance to work with former college players, coaches and more!
KATIE KICKERTZ D.D.S., M.S.,
As a local, female, and board-certified endodontist, Dr. Kickertz provides more than just treatment; she offers empathy and expertise. Whether you’re a patient in need or a doctor seeking a reliable referral, Premier Endodontics is your go-to source for dental pain and root canal emergencies. 6842 Carnegie Blvd., Ste. 200 Charlotte, NC 28211
(980) 423-1272
endodonticsofsouthpark.com info@endodonticsofsouthpark.com
events CONTINUED
JULY 19TH
Morgan Wallen
Bank of America Stadium | 6:00 PM
Come out and see one of the most famous country artists right now, and enjoy some tunes under the beautiful Carolina skies!
JULY 27TH
Colonial Day at Museum of the Waxhaw’s!
Museum of the Waxhaws | 10:00 AM
Check out amazing guided tours where you will learn all about Waxhaw’s rich history! You can also see live history reenactments interactive activities and much more!
JULY 27TH
New Kids on the Block with Paula Abdul and JazzyJeff
PNC Music Pavilion | 7:00 PM
Grab your friends and Step by Step into a night of throwback tunes and good vibes!
