Another reason to rid us of health insurers
Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina has become one of the main movers in the anti-health care reform “movement” (if something that is corporately financed and staged can be called a movement). Yesterday, Barbara Morales Burke, Blue Cross vice president for health policy, told WRAL-TV in Raleigh that the company is strongly opposed to…
Charlotte Roller Girls aim to give
Charlotte Roller Girls sponsor a School Supply Drive for A Child’s Place at their next intra-league bout at Grady Cole Center on August 9.
Sign petition to save the Clean Air Act
Stop Big Coal’s latest attempt to destroy this country.
Simply Delish: Aryn Keogh of Delish Gourmet Cupcakes
A self-taught baker, 21-year-old Aryn Keogh has taken her sweet tooth to the next level. A graduate of Vance High School, Keogh opened Delish Gourmet Cupcakes last year. Her company’s custom-decorated cupcakes and stands make the perfect treat for birthday parties, holidays, weddings, and other special occasions. Creative Loafing: What motivated you to start a…
Where’s your salmon from?
Chile? Um. Might want to skip it.
What ever happened?
Remember in 2007 when a Charlotte Mecklenburg Police officer used her badge to trump up some charges on a woman who was seeing the cop she was involved with? I wondered what happened to the officer who faked e-mails and then filed a complaint against the woman. I thought about e-mailing her, but decided to…
Janix Shoes: High fashion on a budget
Interested in expanding your wardrobe but not shrinking your wallet? Janix Shoes at Stonecrest carries a varied selection of trendy women’s footwear, handbags, tops, dresses, and jewelry at affordable prices. We may be in a recession, but Janix Shoes is adapting in style. Store owner Jonathan Pettis opened Janix Shoes in September of 2007 in…
Best bets in Charlotte comedy this week: July 27-August 2
Here are a few of the best places to find comedy events in Charlotte and
Cheney: Army=Police
In case you missed it over the weekend, the final piece of the puzzle picture revealing Darth Cheney’s “vision for America” fell into place. It turns out Cheney wanted to send U.S. troops into the streets of America to arrest suspected “terrorists,” no matter that the Constitution and subsequent laws forbid the military from being…
CL’s Star Ratings
Star ratings for films playing locally.
Today’s Top 5: Monday
Here are the five best events going down in Charlotte and the surrounding area today.
Iron Man 2 photos
Check out the latest shots from the upcoming sequel.
The Bobcats are recruiting ladies … as in Lady Cats
Only 30 out of 110 women trying out made the first cut.
Iron Man 2: New photos
Check out several shots from the upcoming blockbuster sequel.
Only 66 weeks until the next election
Who will beat Sen. Burr?
Mash-up of the day — Iron Maiden and The Monkees
This one made me laugh out loud — Iron Maiden’s “The Trooper” mashed up with The Monkees’ “I’m a Believer”: \\\\\\\\\\
Live review: Kid Rock, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Black Stone Cherry
Also photos and setlists from the July 26, 2009, concert at Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre.
Protest of Concord Mills
Sunday afternoon was hot as hell, but that didn’t stop a handful of people from standing in the blazing sun expressing their anger. The target: Concord Mills Mall. Why? Because the mall didn’t extend the lease of the Free Market Warrior, who has said in the media that he’s being kicked out for political reasons.…
PlayDate, 7/24/09
PlayDate Charlotte hosted another mass date with fun and games for Charlotteans at the Tyvola Marriott on Friday night.
Pride Charlotte, 7/25/09
Charlotte went gay on Saturday for the Pride Charlotte 2009 festival held at Gateway Village.
Sale of the day: Brock Moran
Brock Moran Home’s four year anniversary sale is going down until Aug. 1. Enjoy incredible savings on showroom furniture, floor samples and accessories. 14835 Ballantyne Village Way, Suite 120 704-341-6264
Hillary
plug: McDowell Nature Preserve (she teaches kayaking and lots of other stuff)
Today’s Top(less) 5: Monday
Here are the five best events to get you hot and bothered with or without a date going down in Charlotte and the surrounding area today, July 27, 2009 — as selected by the folks at Creative Loafing. •Ladies in free at Teddy Bears in Gastonia. • Bark at The Moon night at The Crazy…
Music Menu: Kid Rock, Lynyrd Skynyrd
Kid Rock and Lynyrd Skynyrd will be at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre on Sunday.
Live setlist – Gov’t Mule
Gov’t Mule’s setlist from The Fillmore Charlotte on July 24, 2009: Set 1 A Million Miles From Yesterday Slackjaw Jezebel Rocking Horse Banks Of The Deep End Patchwork Quilt Gameface Little Toy Brain Time To Confess Soulshine Set 2 Lazy I’m A Ram Feel Like Breaking Up Somebody’s Home World Gone Wild Drum solo Bad…
Gov’t Mule did not kick my ass
You wanna know why? Because I did not get to see the damn show!
You can look like this too …
Jasiatic wants to shoot you at her Headshot Party
Mecca
alias: “Just Mecca” passion: Fashion and music inspiration: “Anything thats not normal, that goes unnoticed by others” favorite indulgence: “Finding the truth” current city: Charlotte plug: Flava Factory (she’s a sales rep there) To see more photos by Jasiatic, visit www.createtressphotography.blogspot.com.
Music Menu: The Despised
The Despised is coming to Milestone on Saturday.
Dive in…
Blake Hotel makes a splash with pool party and fashion show
Charlotte Caribbean Festival on Saturday
As Charlotte Caribbean Festival 2009 — presented by Caribbean Cultural Initiative — approaches you may start to develop a craving for some juicy, flavorful Caribbean food. Don’t worry, the fest will be happening some enough. In fact, it’s set to take place on Sat., July 25 at Independence Park. And in addition to authentic food,…
Barefoot in Davidson
Why is it that things can be fine and dandy in a relationship, yet deteriorate after marriage? No one really knows the answer to this, but we all like to give our two cents. Davidson Community Players’ latest production Barefoot in the Park (which kicked off on July 23) is about a newly-wed couple who…
Mini-Palooza at Amos’ Southend
Tonight’s Mini-Palooza at Amos’ Southend will feature music from The Gift: a Jane’s Addiction tribute band Purecult: a Cult tribute band, and Sickbays: a Social Distortion tribute band.
The Hurt Locker: A worthy Iraq War flick
Sharp direction maximizes inherent tension in story.
The Ugly Truth: Simply hideous
Idiotic rom-com is an equal-opportunity offender.
Adoration: Heavy issues, so-so treatment
Thoughtful film takes too many narrative shortcuts.
10-in-10 CD reviews
Each Friday, we bring you 10 reviews of recently released CDs done in 10 words each.
Warped Tour 2009
So, I caught about 28 bands yesterday and took more than 3,000 photos… Needless to say, it’s going to take a little time to go through them and post a gallery. In the meantime, let me say this. The Millionaires are the worst band I’ve ever heard. Talentless — plain and simple. It looked and…
Top 6 things to do for comic fans NOT going to Comic-Con 2009
So what’s a San Diego-less comic fan to do this weekend? I’ve got a few ideas
Recipe: Chocolate Chip Cookies
With so many recipes online claiming they are “the best!!” chocolate chip cookies, it’s hard to know which one really is the best.
Experiencing Vertigo
Hitchcock classic will be screened this Saturday at ImaginOn.
Upcoming: Plitzs Fashion Marketing Summer Swimwear Show
Date: Saturday, July 25, 2009 Time: 7:30pm Cost: $10 Tickets available at www.Ticketannex.com $20 VIP Tickets, (Gift Bags and Complimentary Wine) Dress: Cool, sexy, chic. Swimwear attire optional. Place: Blake Hotel (555 S. McDowell Street) Contact: 704-469-9101; CNCFW2009@gmail.com Exotic swimwear fashion show sponsored by Everything But Water Swimwear and Swap Handbags. Music by DJ Flemingo…
Freeze-dried kimchi?
A South Korean woman has developed a new kind of freeze-dried pickled cabbage that won’t smell.
Charlotte’s coal ash ponds near drinking water source
The state passes legislation increasing inspections and allowing the N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources to regulate coal ash ponds.
Today’s Top 5: Friday
Here are the five best events going down in Charlotte and the surrounding area today.
Tie on your bib, it’s a Low Country boil
Rock N Lobster and Hollywood’s Cycles will be hosting their first annual Low Country Boil Saturday, August 1.
Video tour of Peek-A-Boo Couture
Cute kids deserve cute duds, and Peek-A-Boo Couture is the place to go to find them (the clothes, not the kids). Check out this video tour of the Dilworth boutique. 1315 East Blvd., Suite 150 704-332-5338 (video by Aviva Cantor)
Companies paying attention to the Twitters
Customer service matters.
Stupid Thing of the Week
Radu Mazare, the mayor of the city of Constanta, in Romania, has a thing about dressing up. He used to be a fashion model and has shown up at assorted public events in a variety of costumes, including appearing dressed as James Bond. On Tuesday, though, his fashion sense went crazy, and he did something…
Sale of the day: Morrison sidewalk sale
Stickley Furniture (Saturday): 10am -12pm: Early Bird Special 12pm – 4pm: Live Music and Free Food www.stickley.com Swoozie’s (Friday & Saturday): Tent Sale (located in parking lot across from Swoozie’s) with deeply discounted items www.swoozies.com ChezElle (Friday & Saturday): Semi-Annual Dot Sale – items are $25, $35 & $45 Black & Blue – The Denim…
Music Menu: Lamb Handler, SkinKage, Songs of Water
Friday night: Lamb Handler comes to Snug Harbor, SkinKage to Tremont, and Songs of Water to the Neighborhood Theatre
Threat of the Week: Part 1
Ripped straight from our popular regular crime column “The Blotter” — written every week by Ryan Pitkin — we bring you an in-the-flesh adaptation of the Threat of the Week. Enjoy:
Tempo, 7/23/09
Tempo celebrated their 4 year anniversary with a party and a performance by Algebra Thursday night.
Today’s Top(less) 5: Friday
Here are the five best events to get you hot and bothered with or without a date going.
Upcoming: THREADED fashion show
Going down Friday, July 24: Runway Show of Streetwear Collections from Niche & Black Sheep! With DJ’s SPCL GST & Kevin Focus Summer Party on the Roof & Special Old Skool Set with Mike Soden! 18+ welcome THE FASHION SHOW STARTS AT 11:30 so get there EARLY!! Forum 300 N. College St. 704-375-8765
Video: Algebra (the singer not the math class I flunked)
The Atlanta-based singer Algebra is in town tonight; she’s set to play Tempo’s 4th anniversary party (9 p.m. 4809 Wilkinson Blvd.) Never heard of Algebra? She’s dope. Trust me. Just take a look at these videos of her in action and judge for yourself. (Oh and Joi is hosting the show!)
WTF Thursday: The ESPN Edition
More random acts of weirdness from the world of pop culture.
The Weekender
Check out these events going down in Charlotte and the surrounding area this weekend.
Street Style: Cool conservative
Name: Amy Modena Occupation: Pharmaceutical Sales Rep Spotted: K-la at Phillips Place Rockin: Button-down Banana Republic blouse, pencil skirt from Nordstrom, animal print Jessica Simpson shoes, shiny belt from Nordstrom, metallic Botkier bag, and oversized Marc Jacobs sunglasses Style Philosophy: “Wear an outfit that makes you feel comfortable and confident.”
Charlotte authors up for national awards
S.D. Denny, author of “Baker’s Dozen” and Cheris Hodges, author of “More Than He Can Handle” are nominees in the 2009 African American Literary Award Show.
Opening Friday
What’s new in theaters this weekend.
Box Office Top 10
The week’s top moneymakers.
Kim Bell: A (jewelry) master in the making
Could it simply be a case of beginner’s luck, or sheer talent that brings us to examine the detailed and intricate jewelry designed by local artist Kim Bell? She may still be in the learning process, but she’s already becoming a hit in the salons. With her designs selling to women in two hair boutiques…
Amber
alias: Naimah Yarah (“tranquil butterfly”) passion: Family, music and dancing inspiration: “My children” favorite smell: “Gardenias blooming” current city: Charlotte plug: Healthy Home Market (she’s the store manager at the Southend location) To see more photos by Jasiatic, visit www.createtressphotography.blogspot.com.
Sale of the day: Green With Envy
The July blowout sale continues at Green With Envy. Will you just go check out this place? You’ll be there hours perusing all the merch they’ve got. 1111 Central Ave. 704-344-8774
Foxxy Lady strikes again
We’ve written before about some of the ultra-premium doofuses N.C. Republicans seem to love to send to Congress (Robin Hayes, we miss you!). Our favorite, simply because she’s such an unbelievable half-wit, is Rep. Virginia Foxx (and no, for the last time, just because that’s her name, it doesn’t mean she’s a softcore porn star).…
Ticked about taxes?
Think voters will mind an extra penny sales tax? You betcha. Here’s the thing: Most of us are middle-class, hard-working Americans. We pay our bills on time. If we don’t pay our taxes, the I.R.S. gives us shit. But, if you’re in the top tier of society, you can afford tax accountants, tax attorneys, lawyers…
Laugh for Leah and Cheers to your Liver!
Lake Norman Comedy Zones makes people laugh and saves their liver.
The press reports ‘stupidly’
If you still need proof that the American press today is beyond lame, take a look at, or listen to, news coverage of last night’s press conference by Pres. Obama. Around 90-95 percent of the presser was devoted to detailed aspects of health care reform, so you’d think most news outlets would be dissecting the…
Bye — Bye Obama hater
Concord Mills knows that giving space to a business that is borderline racist is bad for business. And according to the Charlotte Observer, they’ve gotten rid of that business. The owner of Free Market Warrior sold items like bumper stickers that says Impeach Obama and baby bibs that say “My Parents chose life. Thanks Mom…
Sex News roundup: Thursday
Here’s a look at the sex headlines floating around the Internet today. Woman sentenced for keeping a sex slave. Ex-babysitter wins electronic stalking case. Teacher caught having sex with 15 year old at an elementary school. Charity refuses Calendar Girls donation, says it supports sex workers. Male circumcision improves sex for women.
Today’s Top 5: Thursday
Here are the five best events going down in Charlotte and the surrounding area today.
EPA may monitor air for lead
God save the American I.Q.!
Music Menu: Blue Dogs
The Blue Dogs will be at the Epicentre on Thursday!
Apostrophe Lounge, 7/22/09
Creative Loafing’s weekly Pop Life party went down at Apostrophe Lounge Wednesday night. It was bananas with Chico/Laura, a listening party, a birthday, and a pre-90s party with DJ Technics. Photos by Renaul Hill, Charlotte Vibe Photography.
Today’s Top(less) 5: Thursday
Here are the five best events to get you hot and bothered with or without a date going down in Charlotte and the surrounding area today, July 23, 2009 — as selected by the folks at Creative Loafing. •Thursday night pool party. •Surf and Turf at The Uptown Cabaret. • $5 Table Dances at Leather…
Mix it up for MDA @ Carrabba’s
Enjoy food and cocktails while raising money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association at Carrabba’s Italian Grill’s “Mix it Up for MDA” event on July 30.
A Dance-o-holic’s Delight
Big news on upcoming performances at NC Blumenthal Performing Arts Center.
Street Style: Risky business casual
Name: Maria Gartrell Occupation: Account Executive Spotted: Dilworth, East Blvd & Scott Ave Rockin: Ruffled blouse from TJ Maxx, button-accented shorts from Cache, red vinyl belt from TJ Maxx, and jewelry from Brighton and David Yurman Style Philosophy: “I like to show curves and be risky in colorful mixtures that suit my body type. I…
Live Review: Tone X & Friends
Bringin’ the funny
Meet Pat the socialist
Mayor McCrory made an interesting observation, quoted in the daily paper today, that makes you wonder if Republicans are even aware of how hypocritical they sound sometimes. In an article about Charlotte receiving less than its share of federal stimulus money, compared to the dollars flowing into rural areas and Fayetteville, McCrory griped about the…
Your guide to Pride Charlotte 2009
CL’s picks for the best of this year’s LGBT-centric celebration.
Video: At the Avett Brothers’ video shoot
The Avett Brothers shot a music video in NoDa’s Neighborhood Theatre today — and we were there
Gotta tinkle? Tough.
Better go before you leave the house.
Polka Dot Bake Shop’s new savory item
Polka Dot Bake Shop, 1730 E. Woodlawn Road, has introduced a savory item: “CrispiThins” gour met crackers. CrispiThins are the first cracker made with sweet potatoes and are available in four flavors: Original, Cracked Black Pepper, Rosemary and Smoked Chipotle. CrispiThins made their debut at the Summer Fancy Food Show in New York City in…
Teresa
alias: “No … should I have one?” passion: “Travel … I like to explore” inspiration: “Learning, part of exploring” current city: Charlotte favorite destination: Mexico plug: Pura Vida Worldy Art! (she owns the store) To see more photos by Jasiatic, visit www.createtressphotography.blogspot.com.
Birthers can’t accept the truth
Obama won. Deal.
Petra’s Piano Bar, 7/21/09
It was Trivia Night at Petra’s Piano Bar Wednesday, July 21.
Stop pot busts to keep killers in jail
People are in an uproar over revelations that Jerry Case, the man accused of kidnapping a Gastonia family last week, is a former death row inmate who was arrested three times since he was paroled in 2007 from a life sentence for murder. As my dad would have said, “Hasn’t anybody around here got any…
Sex News roundup: Wednesday
Supersex
Elvis vs. Michael — A throwdown for the ages
Is Elvis’ pelvis better than M.J.’s moonwalk?
Sale of the day: Monkee’s
Take 25 percent to 50 percent off their sunglasses. 3900 Colony Rd # E 704-442-7337 www.shopmonkees.com
BofA’s lobbying tab
They have one. Shocking, we know.
Write a review get free sex toys
Sex toys are fun and expensive, but I know how you can get them for free.
Set your DVR: Charlotte makes the Travel Channel …
Charlotte makes the Travel Channel … for it’s nightlife!
Mark Sanford wants to change the subject
Is it time to change the subject or is it time to send Sanford on a vacation that he won’t come back from?
The Therapyst: Jason Stone
Jason Stone is a tall, lanky, home-grown Charlottean and the owner of Therapy Café in the heart of Uptown. It’s his organic farm, though, that is his therapy, not to mention a great asset to his café. After the café’s recent renovation, Therapy is now a full-fledged restaurant, as well as café and the home…
Today’s Top 5: Wednesday
Here are the five best events going down in Charlotte and the surrounding area today.
Today’s Top(less) 5: Wednesday
Here are the five best events to get you hot and bothered with or without a date.
Buzz Aldrin punches out moon landing doubter
This has been going around the Internet for awhile, but in case you haven’t seen it, this week’s 40th anniversary of the first moon landing is the perfect time to view it. The CNN broadcast starts with the Mythbusters debunking the conspiracy theories that claim the moon landings were faked. Then, at around the 2:10…
Concert announcement — Lil Wayne
America’s Most Wanted Music Festival coming to Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre in August.
Just how nuts will the far right get?
“Democrats have moved to the right, and the right has moved into a mental hospital.”
Live Nation offers two for one deal
Live Nation asked the fans to vote and the answer was clear — 72 percent of voters picked buy one get one free lawn tickets over the idea of no service fees. Starting at 12:01 tonight until midnight on Wednesday, the deal is offered at www.livenation.com.
Pimpin’ on Craigslist
Undercover investigation targets Craigslist hookers.
Street Style: Classic Black & White
Name: Kaitlyn Carfagno Occupation: Figure skating coach at the Pineville Ice House Spotted: SouthPark Mall Rockin: Summery checkered Forever 21 dress, versatile Wet Seal leggings, & logo printed Coach shoes Style Philosophy: “At all times, I just try to look precious.”
Remembering Martin Allen
It’s fitting to take a break from writing about politics and so forth to honor Martin Allen, a former Creative Loafing contributor who died Saturday. From the late 1980s through the ’90s, and maybe for a couple of years after that (sorry, my memory is a sieve), Martin wrote previews and reviews of dance performances…
DC — not so sucky anymore
Not long ago, I was hating on the company, but now I’m digging what they’re doing.
RoboGeisha: Greatest trailer ever?
You won’t believe your eyes.
Myrick votes ‘No’ (again)
How does she keep getting re-elected?
This Week’s DVD Releases
What’s new on disc.
Only in Charlotte: Implants halting arrest
So when he gives himself up, is he still Mitchelle? Will he go into lock up with men or women? Is the Mecklenburg County Jail equipped to handle transgendered criminals?
The medium is the message
Sharing thoughts and music can be done through different forms of media.
Slay the dragon and dry your pits
In a world where verbal communication is becoming a lost art form due to texting, e-mail, and video conferences, there still comes the occasional time when it is necessary to actually SPEAK to someone in person. When this occurs, please at all costs, make sure your breath isn’t kicking like a kung fu movie. I…
Arts Flash: Jason Basden’s mixed media
Green Rice Gallery’s current exhibit, Through the Looking Glass, continues through August 2.
Join Andrew Blair’s Bourbon Club
RSVP for tickets to the brand-new Andrew Blair’s Bourbon Club.
Craigslist prostitution comes to the QC
With all the free sex floating around bars, the internet and even Craigslist, why in the hell do people still pay for sex?
Sign Health Care Petition
Fight insidious Republican plans to destroy our future.
Chipotle Mexican Grill’s ‘My Chipotle’ contest
Win $10,000!
A really big show is coming to Charlotte
TLC brought us “Little People, Big World,” and “Jon and Kate Plus 8.” Now, The Learning Channel (stop laughing, that’s really what TLC stands for) is bringing us a show about a morbidly obese family from right here in Charlotte. The Charlotte Observer reports that the network ordered six episodes of the show, which is…
Recent restaurant openings
• Now open is Savor Cafe & Catering, 1404 West Morehead St., 704-334-0098. Currently only lunch is served. Hours are 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. On the menu are burgers, sandwiches, vegetarians options, salads, and daily “blue plates” such as Chicken Pot Pie; Barbecue Chicken; Shrimp and Grits; Red Beans, Rice and Sausage; and Beef…
Comic review: Marvel Divas No. 1
I liked this comic … and I disliked it.
Saying ‘Yes’ to drugs
The government makes us do it.
Five novels to read while thinking about faith
Books with religious elements that you should read.
This week’s new releases (7/21/2009)
A quick rundown of some of this week’s new CDs.
News from FiFi’s Fine Resale
• Diva Night on Thursday, from 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m. They will be featuring “The Body Magic” Reshaper: Look up to 2 to 3 sizes smaller in minutes! All diva night guests also will enjoy a blowout special diva sale. RSVP today at Fifislakenorman@yahoo.com • Store expansion FiFi’s Fine Resale is currently expanding the store another…
Sale of the day: Jos. A. Bank
Today only, take 50 percent off all stock at Jos. A. Bank, the men’s clothing store. CHARLOTTE (Founders Hall) 704-338-1852 The Shops at Founders Hall Bank of America Corporate Center 100 North Tryon Street Ste. 100 Charlotte, NC 28202 Store Hours CHARLOTTE (Morrocroft Village) 704-365-0290 Morrocroft Village 3904-A Colony Road Charlotte, NC 28211 Store Hours…
KamMoye
alias: Supastition passion: music and family inspiration: The golden age of hip- hop and “the kids” favorite rock band: Bad Brains current city: Charlotte plug: supastiton.com, twitter.com/kammoye, new album in stores Oct. 27 titled Splitting Image by Kam Moye (released via MYX Music and Koch Records) To see more photos by Jasiatic, visit www.createtressphotography.blogspot.com.
Today’s Top 5: Tuesday
Here are the five best events going down in Charlotte and the surrounding area today.
Today’s Top(less) 5: Tuesday
Here are the five best events to get you hot and bothered with or without a date.
Die like an Egyptian: Antony and Cleopatra
With 42 scenes stretched across three continents, Antony and Cleopatra is easily the scenery-chewingest play that Shakespeare wrote, far eclipsing the runner-up, Coriolanus, with a paltry 29. Could that be why North Carolina Shakespeare Festival has never done either of these two plays up in High Point? Shakespeare Carolina has beaten NCSF to the punch,…
CD Review: R.E.M.’s Reckoning (25th Anniversary Edition)
The Deal: Classic second R.E.M. reissued with live show. The Good: Writers toss around “timeless” like it’s punctuation, but Reckoning warrants the tag. By pulling from so many different eras (’60s VU and Byrds, ’70s Big Star and Television, contemporary ’80s punk, classic country), the Athens Four transcended their own – and, blessedly, the tired…
The Producers: Yet another Hitler springtime
CPCC Summer Theatre is finishing its Patron’s Choice Season with a lovable, huggable, home-cooked helping of Mel Brooks’ The Producers. Drina Keen’s musical direction sizzles without becoming obtrusive, Robert Croghan’s scenic design gives us a boffo Broadway, and Ron Chisholm’s choreography is witty, glitzy, and tap-tap-tap crazy. There are gems among the performances that equal…
BEST ACTIVIST (INDIVIDUAL OR GROUP)
We think Duke Energy’s plan for a new coal-burning plant near Cliffside, N.C., is a terrible idea (don’t get us started on the myth of “clean coal”). That’s why we’re glad there’s a group like the Stop Cliffside Coalition to draw attention to the issue, support research, file lawsuits, demonstrate, raise Cain, whatever it’ll take.…
Bizarre crimes from Charlotte police files
Big Ego: Police were called to a local Bank of America after a piece of the building was damaged. It seems that overnight a customer tried to use the drive-thru ATM machine and couldn’t make it through. The suspect tried anyway and drove through the roof of the structure, bringing some of it with them…
Ask Sarah!: Gov. Palin’s way cool new column
When Alaska Governor Sarah Palin announced her resignation, speculation mounted that, among other things, she might star in a reality show or get her own newspaper column. We can authoritatively tell you that she is getting her own syndicated column, called “Ask Sarah!” Through our secret contacts in the Wasilla underground (Palin’s moose taxidermist, Fuzzy…
If I had super strength, could I squeeze coal into diamonds?
Superman is able to use his super strength to squeeze coal into diamonds. Theoretically, if someone had unlimited strength in real life, would it be possible to do this? — marcusbrute You realize, Marcus, we’re talking about what (a) a fictional character of virtually unlimited powers (barring kryptonite-related issues) could, (b) if real, be (c)…
BEST LOCAL CHARITY
Just a few blocks from the Square Uptown, the Urban Ministry Center is a vibrant, vigorous complex of buildings, programs and committed people, all focused on helping the homeless. And by “helping,” we don’t just mean a sandwich and a cot. The entire space is an urban oasis with, yes, a daily soup kitchen, but…
Horoscope July 22-July 28, 2009
Leo The Lion: (July 22-Aug. 22) The sun returns “home” to your sign this week. You likely will find it to be energizing. Now is the time to focus on new plans for this next year of your life. Take a fresh look at where you want to direct your energy. It is appropriate that…
Charlotte mayoral candidates on crime
Crime affects every citizen in Charlotte, whether you’re a victim or just paying extra for services you don’t necessarily utilize. The Queen City’s next mayor will have some tough decisions to make about public safety. Just what will those decisions be? As part of an ongoing series, Creative Loafing asked the three men vying to…
Confessions of a Shopaholic among DVD reviews
CONFESSIONS OF A SHOPAHOLIC (2009). When this romantic comedy debuted theatrically this past February, it was savaged by critics for its exceptionally bad timing, as its story about a reckless spender arrived while real Americans were facing bankruptcy on a daily basis. Having finally caught up to it on DVD, I must say I was…
BEST NEW SLOGAN FOR CHARLOTTE
Runners-up: “Banking Capital Of The World Without The Capital”; “If We Build It, They Will Come”
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince: Magic Touch
In terms of sustained quality, I daresay that the Harry Potter franchise trumps all other series featuring more than three entries. That other “Harry,” Dirty Harry, falls just short, and even the entertaining James Bond canon has been subject to a few missteps over the decades. But Potter and friends have been delighting movie audiences…
WORST MEMBER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT
There were four contenders for this award, and three of them are on the School Board; no wonder Chairperson Molly Griffin is getting out. McGarry, poster woman for rightwing suburbanites, gets the award here for her consistently tight-sphinctered, tight-fisted, and, don’t forget, anti-gay approach to running our schools. We’re hoping Kaye avoids this award next…
Bruno worth knowing … to a point
To paraphrase Sen. Lloyd Bentsen’s smackdown of Sen. Dan Quayle during the 1988 Vice Presidential Debate: “Bruno, I screened Borat; I knew Borat; Borat was a review of mine. Bruno, you’re no Borat.” Perhaps not, but there’s still plenty of laughs to be found in Bruno, which finds creator Sacha Baron Cohen employing the same…
WORST POLICING TREND
In March, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Officer Martray Proctor killed Shatona Robinson when he slammed into her Ford Escort while doing 90 mph. No blue lights, no siren. Two months later, a Concord police car chase ended in a crash that killed 84-year-old Docia Barber, who was on her way to get a prescription refilled. Police speeders…
MUSIC: Vans Warped Tour at Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre
Get ready to rock hard at the 15th annual Vans Warped Tour with the bands like Bad Religion, Anti-Flag, Underoath, Less Than Jake, and Senses Fail, among many more. What better way to spend a sweaty summer day than soaking in the sun and ruining your hearing? Rock on. For a complete list of bands…
The Merry Gentleman: Somber drama works
If there’s one fault to be found with the Coen Brothers’ superb Oscar winner No Country for Old Men, it’s that there simply aren’t enough scenes featuring Kelly Macdonald, the wee Scottish lass who’s previously appeared in such diverse works as Trainspotting, Gosford Park and Finding Neverland. Her No Country role as Josh Brolin’s sympathetic…
LOUSIEST PROTEST GROUP
When you think of tea parties, the first thought is little girls in boas and their mother’s high heels. It’s no wonder that the Tea Partiers remind serious people of children. Who schedules a protest on July 4? Obviously Tea Partiers don’t believe families should celebrate the good old U.S. of A.’s independence together. Another…
MUSIC: Laura Izibor at Utopia SoundStage
The rising Irish-born singer Laura Izibor returns to Charlotte once more, and this time she’s playing her catchy, keyboard-driven cuts (like “From My Heart to Yours”) solo for a cozy and cool crowd in an intimate setting. $20 (advance). 8 p.m. (doors). Utopia SoundStage, 10210 Berkeley Place Dr. 704-295-0655. www.thesolkitchen.com.
Pairing wine with salads
The snooty side of food pairings preaches “No Wine with Salad.” I fed on this falsehood for years, following the widely-held mantra like an evangelical wino. Then one day, a miraculous salad and vino combo made me rethink my reliance on traditional not-so-wisdom. Not that I was always so cool and contrarian. Before my re-awakening,…
Walter Cronkite signs off
Legendary journalist Walter Cronkite has died. “The most trusted man in America” passed away from a brain illness at 92 years of age. “Uncle Walter” sat at the helm of CBS News (1962-1981), creating a style of journalism and establishing a standard of excellence that has yet to be matched. As a child, I remember…
FESTIVAL: Pride Charlotte 2009
It’s time for Charlotte to go gay! And Pride Charlotte 2009 — one of the largest annual fests in the nation celebrating lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities — is bringin’ in lots of entertainment. This year, you can expect to see performers like Amy Steinburg, Brendan Velasquez, Crys Matthews, Joshua Klipp, Daniel Gray, Rodie…
Carlos Cafe: Cuban comfort food and hospitality
For four decades — two generations — Americans have not been permitted to visit Cuba; thus, tales and tastings of that country’s indigenous cuisine have been left to large enclaves of émigrés within the United States, notably Miami and Union City, New Jersey. In those locations, all styles of Cuban eateries, bakeries and coffee shops…
Medical rationing for thee, not me
There’s an interview that all Americans should see before they decide whether they really want government-run health care. During ABC News’ on-air health care forum with President Obama last month, a doctor asked Obama to pledge that he wouldn’t seek care banned under a government-run health plan, even if it meant allowing a member of…
DANCE: Belly Oasis Mid-East Dance Concert at CPCC’s Pease Auditorium
When some of us see belly dancing, thoughts tend to run through our heads like “how the hell can a person’s hips do that?” or “I wish I could do that.” We are inevitably sadly disappointed later when our failed attempts in the mirror at home leave us looking more like malfunctioning robots than fluid…
Women are crazy, men are worse
Girls are crazy. (OK, emotional if you want to be “P.C.” about it) What? … We are — it’s called estrogen. But what the hell is the excuse for men? I’m not sure whether they’re assholes or just clueless, but what makes men think it’s OK to court a woman by asking, “Would you like…
Capsule reviews of films playing the week of July 22
Current Releases ANGELS & DEMONS Angels & Demons, the follow-up to the international smash The Da Vinci Code, feels like nothing more than a cross between a Frommer’s travel guide and a scavenger hunt, as Harvard symbologist Robert Langdon hits all of Rome’s holy hot spots gathering up clues as if they were empty Dr.…
FILM: Screening of To Wong Foo Thanks for Everything, Julie Newmar
Another hum drum Monday? No way. Theatre650’s Cult Movie Mondays drags you out of the house and over to Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte for a screening of the 1995 film To Wong Foo Thanks for Everything, Julie Newmar. This cult classic revolves around three drag queens who become stranded in a small town when their…
Gallows brings hardcore punk to 15th Annual Vans Warped Tour
Every summer for the last 15 years, the Vans Warped Tour has gone around the country bringing dozens of bands to a venue near you. Stages line the parking lot and walkways as the sweaty masses sing along and mosh their way through the day. Among the acts performing at this year’s event will be…
Mozart meets Manhattan
Pure music met pure modernity in the latest Martha Connerton/Kinetic Works concert, Sizzlin’ SummerDance 2009. Connerton had her Kinetic women in deep purple dresses in For Love of Mozart while her guys came on for the opening allegro spiritoso in navy blue with lavender tops partially obscured by cape-like sweaters designed by Heidi O’Hare. The…
THEATER: Mamma Mia at Belk Theater
Once the lyrics and music from Mamma Mia get into your head, it’ll most likely be a while before they get out. Listen … and you can hear it now: “Mamma mia! Here I go again! My my, how can I resist you!” Sorry … had to do it. These lyrics, from the hit musical…
Happy 20th, Irish Cue!
It’s a challenge to find someplace to hang out that’s open every single day of the year, but Ray Phillips has the cure. His pub, The Irish Cue in Cornelius, has been going strong for 20 years now, and he’s ready to celebrate. July 25 will mark the official birthday of his unbridled dedication and…
MUSIC: Tool at Bojangles’ Coliseum
Tool is one of those bands that has transcended musical boundaries, so to speak. Having formed in the 90s, the group continues to release worthy music, — the latest being 2006’s 10,000 Days — though not quite as quickly as some fans would like. The bands ability to go from soft melodic melodies to harsh…
CL previews upcoming concerts (July 22-28)
WEDNESDAY, JULY 22 Hoots and Hellmouth Like Dr. Dog’s twang, banjo-totin’ Marah or the National Eye’s Neil Young fixation, here’s another Philly ensemble that makes a mash-up of urban and rural elements – hoedowns, folky ballads and gut-bucket bar rock colliding on the street corner. Its latest, The Holy Open Secret, continues the trend, and…
The 21st century color line
W.E.B. Du Bois’ classic 1903 work The Souls of Black Folk opens with “The problem of the Twentieth Century is the problem of the color line.” Du Bois helped form the NAACP, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, which just celebrated its 100th anniversary. Henry Louis Gates Jr., who directs Harvard University’s…
The long-awaited Blackest Night
Blackest Night No. 1 Published by DC Comics. Written by Geoff Johns. Pencils by Ivan Reis. Inks by Oclair Albert. The Deal: It’s the first issue of DC’s long-awaited, Green Lantern-centric, mega crossover. And when I say “long-awaited,” I mean “long-awaited.” Writer Geoff Johns has been setting up this story — which introduces a new…
CD Review: The Dead Weather’s Horehound
The Deal: The latest project from The White Stripes/The Raconteurs’ Jack White includes Dean Fertita of Queens of the Stone Age, Alison Mosshart of The Kills and Jack Lawrence of The Raconteurs. The Good: I’m not sure you’d call The Dead Weather a supergroup, but I would say the CD as a whole is intense,…
