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South Charlotte SouthCharlotteLifestylePubs.com

APRIL 2017

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Garden

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Lifestyle Letter

y earliest memories take place in the garden. Picking crimson raspberries warmed by the summer sun. Rinsing the wrinkled bodies of carrots in the cool pool of a watering can. The floral push of a lily's scent. Roly polies and earth worms. For most Charlotteans, the garden is home. The two notions are inherently tied, so that it's difficult to discuss one without the other. Or at least, that's how it felt as we worked on our Home & Garden Issue.

APRIL 2017 PUBLISHER

Richard Mellert | Richard.Mellert@LifestylePubs.com George Zorrilla | George.Zorrilla@LifestylePubs.com EDITOR

Emily Glaser | Emily.Glaser@LifestylePubs.com ACCOUNT MANAGER

Jill Jessee | Jill.Jessee@LifestylePubs.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Roni Fishkin, Emily Glaser, Caroline Howes, Bernard Lee, Anna Van Erven

Everyone we talked with, from young chefs to aged gardeners, recalled those sweet, Southern memories that tie the home to the garden. Chef Ryan of Dogwood Southern Table, for instance, remembers shelling and shucking the fruits of his grandmother's garden on her squeaky front porch (how many of us don't have a memory like that?). But for some of Charlotte's citizens, especially the younger ones, gardens are foreign places and the growth of food and flowers a mystery. Which is why the local nonprofits in our feature article, F.A.R.M.S. and 100 Gardens, are so important. These young organizations are intentionally reintroducing farms and gardens to Charlotte, through school programs and market introductions that help farmers and hungry mouths alike. In Charlotte, gardens of the literal and figurative variety grow tall and strong. May yours do the same.

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jordan Black, Kiara Etayo of The Mango Market, Mert Jones, Mason Link, Dustin Peck

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P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 South Charlotte Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of South Charlotte’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in South Charlotte Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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April 2017

Departments

16 Fresh From the Garden

Dogwood Southern Table's Farm-Fresh Cuisine

Good Times

Around Town

Renovate & Refine

Culinary Creations

Tech Savvy

Water & Woods

Travel Destination

Lifestyle Calendar

Realty Report

Parting Thoughts

20 Giving Back With Gardens

Two of Charlotte's Freshest Garden Nonprofits

24 Backyard Babysitter

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Good Times

McColl Studio Party

Over 70 works of art were sold at McColl's Studio Party 2017, the profits from which directly benefit the artists and McColl's artist residency program. PHOTOGRAPHY BY MERT JONES FOR MCCOLL CENTER FOR ART + INNOVATION

Humane League Gala

The Humane League held a celebratory evening to honor the local office’s fourth year of operations in Charlotte and the groundbreaking progress for animals over the past year. The gala celebrated Charlotte’s monumental efforts to reduce animal suffering with local brews, cocktails, vegan treats, inspiring speakers and a silent auction. PHOTOGRAPHY BY JORDAN BLACK AND MASON LINK.

South Charlotte Lifestyle | April 2017

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Around Town

AROUND TOWN

celebrated its volunteers, and its success, with its Third Annual HearThrob event. Want to help? Visit HeartTutoring.org for more information.

CHARLOTTE TREE CLIMBING COMPETITION Be sure to catch AAA Tree Expert’s climbers at the Charlotte Tree Climbing Competition held at Freedom Park on April 22 and 23! The Charlotte Arborist Association holds this event that’s fun for spectators of all ages. The Charlotte Tree Climbing Competition promotes safety, professional arboriculture,

THIRD ANNUAL HEARTHROB

and bettering the industry. Professional climbers from AAA Tree Experts, Inc. and

just imagine those challenges paired with the dif-

a host of other companies will be partici-

ficulties of poverty. Heart Math Tutoring is a local

pating in this event, which includes several

nonprofit that helps students in high-poverty

challenges for climbers to demonstrate their

elementary schools around CMS develop vital

skills (some of which involve men climbing

math skills and academic confidence, in large

trees like monkeys!). Courtesy of Heart Math Tutoring

Many of us struggled with math as kids, but

part through volunteer tutoring by Charlotte’s young professionals. According to the results of EOG testing, 56 percent of economically disadvantaged children in CMS perform below grade level in math; 98% of students tutored by Heart, however, meet the growth goals set in partnership with CMS. It’s growth accomplished by 750 volunteer tutors for 660 students across 12 school sites. This spring, the organization

MOMS ON A MISSION: GET IN SHAPE. MEET MOMS. FIGHT CANCER The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Moms In Training (MIT) program combines exercise, parenthood and philanthropy. In its inaugural year in 2016, 150 Charlotte moms raised over $120,000 in the fight against

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Around Town

(CON TI N UED)

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THIRD ANNUAL CIVIL WAR SYMPOSIUM Charlotte, like all Southern cities, was largely shaped by the lasting effects of the Civil War. The Charlotte History Museum is the perfect host for this academic event, which returns to our city for its third year. Historians and history buffs alike gather to discuss the War Between the States in this event hosted by the Charlotte Metrolina Civil War Roundtable and Charlotte Museum of History. This year’s symposium will feature experts who examine four key battles of the Civil War: Antietam, Vicksburg, Shiloh and Chickamauga. Preregistration is required for the Symposium, which takes place on April 22. Visit CharlotteMuseum.org to register.

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Renovate & Refine

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DESIGNER TIPS FOR KID'S ROOMS ARTICLE CAROLINE HOWES | PHOTOGRAPHY DUSTIN PECK

ids’ styles are constantly changing, but don’t think you have to spend big to look good. The wall art in this pretty purple girl’s room is a perfect fusion of high-end and homemade. Adding a special creation from a

child makes the room its own, plus it’s a great way to showcase their personal design talent. Another balance of dollar and design is an accent wall. Accent walls add a unique pop of style to a room, and only requires dipping into the piggy bank for a few feet of designer wallpaper. There are endless ways to mix it up and make a child’s room brilliantly blissful on a budget. And if you find yourself struggling, style smart with Swell Décor.

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1/26/17 12:04 AM April 2017 | South Charlotte Lifestyle 15

Culinary Creations

fresh from the garden DOGWOOD SOUTHERN TABLE'S FRESH FARE

South Charlotte Lifestyle | April 2017

ARTICLE EMILY GLASER PHOTOGRAPHY THE MANGO MARKET

outherners are inherent gardeners. We love our tomatoes warm from the sun and our carrots fresh from the earth. That’s probably why farm-to-table restaurants like Dogwood Southern

Table of Rare Roots Hospitality are our favorite. The Southern tradition of growing and cooking is familiar to Chef Ryan Daugherty. “My grandmother, she was an older Southern cook. I remember Sundays peeling green beans and shucking corn and getting flour just right for fried chicken. She had a lot of soul, a lot of love.” Daugherty infuses his cooking at Dogwood Southern Table with that same kind of soul and love, in part through the genuine relationships he fosters with local farmers. “We do a tremendous amount of searching for produce and meats,” he explains. The fruits, veggies and meats that go into Dogwood’s dishes are fresh, seasonal and local. Though Daugherty looks everywhere for the best ingredients, he also intentionally cultivates connections with farmers, creating a symbiotic relationship that lasts. “Our biggest farm we use is Boy and Girl Farm. We have a pretty unique relationship with them,” he says. “They bring in the majority of what we put on the plate; their Wednesday deliveries are incredibly large. We switch around our menus to what they’re growing for the season.” By cultivating such special relation-

PAN ROASTED DUCK BREAST, RUTABAGA, PICKLED TURNIPS AND ROASTED PURPLE SWEET POTATOES WITH SUNCHOKE PUREE AND APPLE BUTTER INGREDIENTS

1 Rutabaga 1 Turnip 2 Large Sweet Potatoes 2 Sunchokes 4 Apples 4 Duck breast (The chef suggests Harmony Ridge Farms) 1 c sugar 1 1/2 c red wine vinegar 1 Quart Cream

ships with their providers, Daugherty’s persuaded some of

RUTABAGA

them to dedicate plots and produce to Dogwood.

Peel and slice, blanch until tender.

Because the menu is dependent on what local farmers are growing in their gardens, it's constantly shifting. “But your favorite dish always comes back around!” Daugherty promises. With garden-fresh ingredients, Dogwood serves healthy, satiating meals—but Daugherty recognizes that can be a daunting prospect at home. “Look at a few things at the farmer’s market each week and see what you’d like to get to know. Build better rapport with those vegetables, handling and cooking them, and soon you’ll have a collection of new, healthy recipes.” Like this pan roasted duck with fresh veggies! Explore your farmer’s market—or your own garden—to incorporate new vegetables into the dish.

PICKLED TURNIPS

Peel and slice thinly. Bring 1 c sugar and 1 1/2 c red wine vinegar to boil. Pour over turnips, let set at room temperature for 2 hours, then refrigerate. SWEET POTATOES

Peel, cube and roast at 450 degrees for 15 minutes. SUNCHOKE PUREE

Peel and slice sunchokes. Simmer in cream until tender, then puree. APPLE BUTTER

Peel and slice apples. Toss in brown sugar until coated. Cook on low in crockpot for 6 hours. Puree. DUCK BREAST

In a medium heat pan, place the duck breast skin-side down. Cook until skin is rendered and crispy, then flip and add butter (chef suggests adding fresh thyme!) for three minutes. Remove and let rest 4 minutes. Slice and serve with veggies, puree and apple butter. April 2017 | South Charlotte Lifestyle

Tech Savvy

The Answer is "Yes"

ARTICLE BERNARD LEE

SAYING "YES" TO DIGITAL MARKETING

'm often asked, “What should we doing when it comes to our online

What’s become frustrating for established companies is when they

strategy? Should we concentrate on social media, Adwords, SEO,

lose market share to new upstarts. How does it happen? These upstarts

landing pages, YouTube video or all of the above?”

believe in the power digital marketing.

My answer is always the same: “Yes.”

When we’re brought in to discuss digital marketing strategies with tra-

I get the same puzzled look. Then I ask a question. “What would you like

ditional companies seeking the shift to digital, one of my first questions is,

to accomplish with your digital marketing strategy?” Far too often I get a

“How do you feel about digital marketing?” In many cases I get a shrug,

different version of the same answer, “I'm not sure.”

or I don't believe in it and can't see the ROI. But in 2017 you cannot ignore

Many companies have become successful and maintained sustainable

social media. If your company sells a product or provides a service, there

growth without any form of digital marketing, but in the last few years

are over 400 million users (potential customers) each on Instagram, Twitter

they’ve leveled off. They’re still providing the same great products and

and Snapchat that you could be accessing. Facebook just surpassed 1.8

service to customers and their experienced sales team is as sharp as ever.

billion users. It’s not just for fun—this is modern marketing.

Their decline is a direct result of adaption—or lack thereof. In this new

The best part about increasing your online presence, especially through

age, how we do business and how we share it with the public has changed

advertising on these platforms, is that you can get as detailed as possible.

forever. (If you are a new or smaller business, you can appear as large as

If you build custom cabinets, you can target customers based on very

the established companies with the right digital marketing strategy.)

specific demographics. For example, if you want to reach customers in

Customers want to know more about the people behind a company. Do you share pictures and videos of your community involvement? What

Charlotte you can target SouthPark, Panther fans, homes above $500K, who attended UNC Chapel Hill and who are also dog lovers.

social issues do you stand for? Social media platforms like Facebook,

Before you begin your digital marketing strategy, ask the right questions.

Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and now Snapchat give your company a

What do you want to accomplish? Do you want to establish or promote

“heartbeat” and brand identity on a personal, accessible level. A robust

your brand, increase sales, increase followers or all of the above? With the

and active social media presence is vital in this era of doing business and

right digital marketing strategy, the ROI will follow.

directly impacts your overall marketing strategy. If the current customer clicks on your company's Twitter or Instagram

Bernard Lee is the President of Charlotte Search Engine

links and there’s little to no activity, they’ll lose interest and assume you

Consultants, CharlotteSearchEngineConsultants.com.

have, too. In this new era of business, people want to know what you

They help companies develop digital marketing

stand for and then what you sell.

strategies producing an online voice much larg-

The starting point lies in video. Your smartphone has incredible capabilities and can let your audience in on real-time activities, like your new projects, how your team celebrates success, your new hires, or your new clients. It allows people in. This is part of what your audience and potential clients want to know.

er than their company. He can be contacted at Bernard@charlottesearchengineconsultants.com.

O ur resident expert!

SOCIAL MEDIA

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Its time for all B2B's to join the party.

Measure everything. A/B Test. Experiment often.

The great equalizer. Drive additional value through social channels. Include video.

South Charlotte Lifestyle | April 2017

DEFINE YOUR STRATEGY

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South Charlotte Lifestyle | April 2017

GIVING BACK WITH GARDENS Getting Down and Dirty With Two of Charlotte's Freshest Garden Nonprofits

F.A.R.M.S. “Everything goes back to the soil,” says Jillian Hishaw, Founder & Executive Director of F.A.R.M.S.

120,000 pounds of fresh produce to areas in and outside of Mecklenburg County.

The nonprofit focuses on helping small farmers in low

In 2015, F.A.R.M.S. received a grant from the African

income or rural communities succeed and thrive by

American Community Foundation—Foundation of

providing legal, food bank and education services.

the Carolinas to provide fresh produce to low-income

It’s a cause that’s close to Hishaw’s heart. “I expe-

seniors in Charlotte. “We provided nearly 3,500 pounds

rienced land loss in my family personally through

of produce as a result of the Foundation’s funding, and

my grandfather,” she explains. Her grandfather lost

provided the same amount to low-income families in

his land during the Depression, which, generations

Charlotte last year from a Food Lion grant,” Hishaw

later, sparked Hishaw’s interest in farming. She

explains. All that donated produce was purchased

received her undergraduate degree in biology, then

from local farms, like Monroe Farms and the Males

her law degree and masters in Agricultural Law.

Place, a local urban agricultural nonprofit.

With degrees and passion, Hishaw formed Family

Hishaw is also intent on raising a new generation of

Agriculture Resource Management Services (F.A.R.M.S.).

agriculturally aware citizens.. Through career fairs and

The nonprofit hones in on the ways small farms in rural

internships, she opens the eyes of youth to the breadth

areas actually impact urban areas, and intentionally rein-

of agricultural careers. “I want more students to con-

troduces the two communities to one another. “We focus

sider careers in agriculture and agricultural science,

on the farmer, helping them expand their retail markets,

so I’m exposing them to various facets of agriculture.

and protect their family land with proper estate planning

They don’t usually think, ‘Oh I can be an agricultural

mechanisms,” she explains. Expanding farmer’s retail

lawyer, a game warden, work in conservation, become

markets while serving the community at the same time

a large animal vet…’ F.A.R.M.S. exposes them to differ-

is a prevalent program goal.

ent careers.” The options, she points out, are limitless.

Hishaw achieves this goal through multifaceted

Workshops, food bank donations, and an upcom-

programming, including F.A.R.M.S. to Food Bank,

ing fundraiser on a local lavender farm—F.A.R.M.S.

which directly combats poverty in both rural and

is the very definition of multifaceted. But it always

urban areas. The program purchases fresh produce

comes back to one thing: the soil. It’s here that our

directly from small farmers to be donated to area

food is raised and, in turn, our communities.

food banks, pantries and child care centers. In the past three years, the program has donated over

For more information about F.A.R.M.S. visit 3000acres.org.

ARTICLE EMILY GLASER PHOTOGRAPHY DREA PHOTO ARTISTRY, 100 GARDENS & JILLIAN HISHAW

CONTINUED >

April 2017 | South Charlotte Lifestyle

GIVING BACK WITH GARDENS (CON TI N U ED)

(Drea Photo Artistry)

100 GARDENS In order to understand Charlotte’s nonprofit 100 Gardens, you have to

garden that caught the attention of neighborhood kids. “The kids

start somewhere else entirely: Haiti. In 2010, following the earthquake that

were talking about PH and oxygen during dinner, and the parents

struck the island nation, renowned local architect Ron Morgan wanted

were wondering what happened to their children,” Fleming says

to give back. “He had the idea of how Charlotte could contribute to Haiti,

with a laugh.

because Charlotte used to be the sister city of Port-au-Prince,” explains

That natural-born passion they found in kids inspired them to

Sam Fleming, who took over the organization following Morgan’s pass-

move the 100 Gardens primarily to local schools. “Maybe we just

ing last year. “Charlotte could send down large hydroponic farms and

discovered a tool for teaching science, healthy eating, and sustain-

train the Haitians to use the gardens. If we could build 100 gardens, what

ability all in one,” Fleming remembers. When installed in schools,

kind of impact would we have?” The answer: huge.

the gardens could serve as accessible (and malleable) models for

Though the organization still has ties to Haiti, it’s more locally focused

kids to understand food. They began with an aquaponic garden at

these days. They’ve also traded in hydroponics for aquaponics, which

Stonewall Jackson, a local juvenile detention center, and now they

swaps the use of chemical fertilizers for nutrients created by freshwater

have five programs in local schools. Fleming hopes to see that num-

fish. The water and plants raise edible fish, which fertilize the plants, and

ber grow to 100 within the next 5 years, buoyed by their new 4th

in turn the plants clean the water. It’s symbiosis at its best.

through 8th grade curriculum.

The modern project took shape in Morgan’s backyard, where

100 Gardens is also branching out into other aspects of the com-

Fleming, Morgan and Charles Oliphant developed an aquaponic

munity through their new Seeds on 36th Store. “We get emails every

South Charlotte Lifestyle | April 2017

(Drea Photo Artistry)

Join A Child’s Place for an evening of dinner, drinks, and bidding on celebrity-autographed piggy banks paired with exciting entertainment and travel packages.

Saturday, May 20, 2017 week from people who want to do this in their backyard,” Fleming notes. “I had the idea that we could really engage the public in growing food through a retail setting. We’re the only garden center focused on growing food—it’s a platform for people who want to grow their own food, a place to take classes

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and buy equipment that’s hard to find, with live displays on site.” 100 Gardens is intentionally integrating aquaponics, the future of gardening, with the Charlotte community—one drop of water at a time. For more information about 100 Gardens, visit 100gardens.simdif.com.

A Swine Evening will beneﬁt A Child’s Place, a 98% privately funded non-proﬁt organization whose mission is to erase the impact of homelessness on children and their education.

April 2017 | South Charlotte Lifestyle

Water & Woods

Backyard

Babysitter

ARTICLE ANNA VAN ERVEN

South Charlotte Lifestyle | April 2017

e all remember the joy of childhood summer vacations, wiping popsicle juice from ruddy, sun-stained cheeks and the feel of itchy grass poking between our toes. But as parents, the

joys of summer are met with with worries of our children in equal number: How do I keep them entertained? Which sibling will start bickering first? How can I watch them to keep them out of trouble? The answer to all these questions and more is simple, and it hearkens back to the best of our own summer days: a swimming pool. A backyard swimming pool proved to be the best summer parenting tool for Larry Izokovic, general sales manager at Blue Haven Pools. After Izokovic built his first pool, his son and all the neighborhood kids spent the summer romping in the aqueous playscape. “From that time on,” says Izokovic, “I always knew where my son was.” As a father, Izokovic couldn’t put a price on the supervision and subsequent peace of mind his pool provided. As a member of the Blue Haven team, he stresses this to other parents. “I’ve been telling customers ever since then, my pool in my backyard was my babysitter.” What Izokovic means is that backyard swimming pools are a source of endless entertainment for kids, easily filling long summer days when the sun’s golden hughes stretch beyond 8 p.m. Kids are lighter and more agile; they can’t help but jump, flip, glide and somersault until their pruned fingertips go numb. “Kids love the water!” Izokovic notes. “My grandson went swimming in water that was 60 degrees. But that kid was in the pool with blue lips swimming around because he loved that pool!” Izokovic acknowledges that all children require parental supervision while swimming, but you're more likely to enjoy watching the kids poolside, sipping sweet lemonade, rather than carting them to and from expensive day camps. As the daunting summer heat starts to unfurl by mid-morn-

ing, parents may even want to seek refuge with a quick, chilly dip. With kids happily splashing and socializing in a watery backyard oasis, Legos remain encased in plastic bins far from the bare feet of inattentive walkers. Dolls stay nestled in their miniature pink houses safe from the dog’s curious appetite. And beloved electronics are left by the wayside, their screens black in power-save mode. “You’re not cleaning up toys all over the house, the kids are in the pool!” Larry says. “The only thing you have to supply is a beach towel.” Backyard pools help ensure that kids spend all those hours swimming in safe, clean water. Unlike public aquatic centers with their ominous warning signs, parents have greater visibility of goings-on in their backyard setup, plus more control over the chlorination process. Public pools often rely on harsh chemicals to shock the water, whereas families can elect for a salt-water system requiring less chlorine. The salt-water system is gentler on the eyes and skin, ideal for kids with allergies. Izokovic always recommends it in all of his proposals because even this retired Marine will admit to the softening effects the salt-water system has on skin. Izokovic's experience as a father, grandfather and Blue Haven expert always prompts him to tell his clients, “Your parenting skills are going to increase by a thousand percent.” Backyard swimming pools offer plenty of physical activity, socialization and parental supervision to keep kids safe during the summer hiatus. But most importantly, with kids spending more time at home, families are building lasting memories year after year. April 2017 | South Charlotte Lifestyle

Travel Destination

Experience

Cuba ARTICLE RONI FISHKIN

HERE ARE MY TOP REASONS TO VISIT CUBA AS SOON AS POSSIBLE!

1. No Crowds More and more tourists will start to flock to the island as restrictions are lifted. The time to go is now before the country changes to accommodate all the visitors with an influx of hotels and resorts that change the authentic landscape. 2. Rum and Cigars Cuba is known for both rum and cigars, and no visit there is complete without a tour of a cigar factory or tobacco plantation to understand the country’s economy. Cuban rum is world-renowned and visitors can indulge in the ubiquitous mojito or daiquiri at every turn. 3. A Treasure Trove of Culture

Cubans love their music, art and dance and had the opportunity to experience the

it surrounds every visitor. Whether it’s a local

forgotten era of Cuba recently when

jazz musician or an opera house, a dance

American Airlines launched its inaugural

troupe or colorful street murals, a local street

non-stop flight from Charlotte to Havana.

artist or fine art gallery, the creative senses are

It was a quick, jam-packed visit with the

all heightened during a trip to Cuba.

food, music and culture of the tiny island

4. The Cars

nation, a place filled with wonderful

If you love old cars, the streets of Havana are the

and unique people anxious to welcome

place to go. In surprisingly good condition, the vin-

American tourists.

tage 1950s cars are kept running by enterprising locals who pride themselves on keeping these vintage wheels in beautiful condition. A taxi ride in a convertible should be on every visitor’s bucket list. 5. The People Engaging and spirited, the Cuban people’s hospitality is often the reason visitors love their Cuban vacation. They are diverse, friendly and genuine, and the experience of meeting them is unforgettable. 6. Countryside, Small Towns and Beaches While Havana invites the headlines, it’s the beautiful, green landscape of the countryside that leads visitors to smaller towns with quiet cobblestone streets and colonial architecture that makes Cuba special. White sand beaches line the coastline, and resorts there provide welcome rest and relaxation after touring the bigger cities. There are areas of rainforest, mountain ranges, waterfalls and more to explore in this tiny nation. 7. History Cuba boasts nine UNESCO world heritage sites, places that are protected and preserved because of their special cultural or historical significance. The country’s history is interesting and relevant, and visiting provides a greater understanding of the events and how they unfolded.

South Charlotte Lifestyle | April 2017

Enjoy the sights & sounds of Cuba! Let Mann Travels help you navigate your vacation to this iconic & colorful destination for the experience of a lifetime.

www.manntravels.com

photo by Jaume Escofet

Cotswold Marketplace 200 North Sharon Amity Charlotte, NC 28211 (980) 224-3317 swelldecordesign.com

April 2017 | South Charlotte Lifestyle

In our previous ad, we introduced the owners of Metro GreenScape, Darin and Heather Brockelbank and how they began the company. Darin, starting his company as a 14 year old kid mowing lawns in his neighborhood, took the company to new heights and is now an industry leader in the Charlotte Market. Now that you know the history behind Metro GreenScape, we want to introduce you to the Why behind the company. Although we enjoy bringing beauty and enjoyment to properties, it is not really the reason why we get up and go to work every morning. Our company mission is to Impact People and Change Lives. We live this out by serving our customers, vendors, employees, and community. We have completed endeavors in the past such as: • Installed a Healing Garden at Carolina Breast Friends • Installed a butterfly garden at McDowell Park with the help of children from local schools teaching them skills of our trade • Donations and installation of hardscape and landscape at the Extreme Home Makeover in Lincolnton, NC • Support Compassion Ministries that affords children in third world countries to attend school and receive monetary support • Support missionaries in China and Costa Rica who minister to others sharing the love of Christ Recently, we were given the opportunity to partner a great local organization, NARI (National Association Remodeling Industry) with a local ministry, The Charlotte Dream Center. The Charlotte Dream Center runs out of The King’s Kitchen (corner of Trade St. and Church St.). One ministry supported by The CDC is Adopt-A-Block. The mission of Adopt-A-Block is to give hope and bring transformation for Charlotte’s most at-risk neighborhoods through consistent and dedicated home visits, relationship building and physical acts of service. Most of these children do not receive physical, emotional, or spiritual support. Many lack essential needs such as a stable home

CALL OUR FAMILY TO CREATE YOUR FAMILY’S DREAM Learn more 704.837.1993

life, a warm bed to sleep in, or three meals per day. You may be asking, how does this ministry marry with our Why at Metro GreenScape? Well, we see MGS as a means of connecting our employees, customers, vendors and their unique talents to create a lasting impact. Our goal, with NARI and Adopt-A-Block, is to bring those talents together to bless others. NARI has given us an opportunity to help Adopt-A-Block raise funds and send 25-30 children to attend many fun events. We have plans to send them to a fun day at Carowinds, Charlotte Raptor Center, Discovery Place, YMCA camp, and much more. The NARI organization is hosting Pins4Kids, which is a bowling tournament taking place on March 24, 2017. Our goal is to raise $30,000 during the bowling tournament. We plan to accomplish this through general donations, business sponsorships, and teams playing in the tournament, each with a sponsorship goal. We will be hosting the tournament at The Piedmont Social House (www.piedmontsocial.com) who is donating the bowling lanes and shoes during the tournament time. We are so thankful for those sponsors and partnerships we have received to date. If you are interested in helping us give these kids the best summer of their life, you can visit the site below to give: https://www.crowdrise.com/2017-pins-4-kids/fundraiser/N ARICharlotte You may also contact us at Metro GreenScape for more information about the ministry or how you can help. And, of course, if you need help with an outdoor living project at your home, we are here to serve you as well!

WE IMPACT PEOPLE AND CHANGE LIVES everythingoutdoorzy.com

Lifestyle Calendar

April

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CHARLOTTE BRAIN TUMOR RACE ROMARE BEARDEN PARK The National Brian Tumor Society fights back against this horrible disease with the Charlotte Brain Tumor Race. Proceeds from the event assist in brain tumor-specific programs to improve the lives of those affected by brain tumors.

APRIL 1 - 9 BUD, NOT BUDDY WELLS FARGO PLAYHOUSE In Depression-era Michigan, young orphan Bud sets out on a mission to find his father. It's a tale perfect for the entire family, hosted by Children's Theatre Charlotte.

APRIL 1 - 9 I LOVE YOU, YOU'RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE ARMOUR STREET THEATRE Love and lack thereof, from marriage to in-laws, is the subject of this hilarious musical, hosted by the Davidson Community Players.

APRIL 5 JAMIE KIMBLE FOUNDATION FOR COURAGE WOMEN FOR COURAGE LUNCHEON CHARLOTTE CONVENTION CENTER

Our

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One in four women will experience domestic violence at some point in their lives. The 3rd Annual Jamie Kimble Foundation for Courage Women For Courage Luncheon helps raise awareness for victims of domestic violence.

APRIL 5 COMMUNITY CONVERSATION: WHAT'S GOING ON? SOCIAL CONSEQUENCES & RACE IN AMERICA MINT MUSEUM UPTOWN The Mint strives to be more than a mere museum; it's a cultural institution that prompts dialogue. That's the case with their latest community conversation, which will bring together CONTINUED >

South Charlotte Lifestyle | April 2017

Realty Report South Charlotte Realty Report NEIGHBORHOOD

LIST PRICE

SOLD PRICE

%SOLD/LIST

DOM

Myers Park

1595000

1550000

86%

228

Myers Park

1295000

1306000

101%

123

Cotswold

1249500

100%

Cotswold

1199000

1115000

93%

Foxcroft

1075000

100%

Myers Park

950000

977000

103%

Cotswold

975000

970000

99%

Myers Park

890000

100%

Foxcroft

875000

100%

Whitegate

895000

870000

97%

Myers Park

840000

820000

98%

Fox Lake

735000

710000

91%

197

Carmel Estates

739000

707500

93%

207

Eastover

675000

685000

101%

Cotswold

675000

670000

99%

Barclay Downs

725000

663000

83%

121

$675,000

$665,000

98.52

Myers Park

630000

636500

101%

Challis Farm

649000

633000

86%

Providence Springs

637500

627500

97%

198

Providence Park

615000

600000

98%

152 S Canterbury RD-Cotswold

BDRMS BATHS

SOUTH CHARLOTTE LUXURY HOME SPECIALIST Contact me today for a consultation on how your home can be marketed in the Carolinas and around the world.

LOCAL

PA R T N E R G L O B A L

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April 2017 | South Charlotte Lifestyle

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South Charlotte Lifestyle | April 2017

Lifestyle Calendar

(CON TI N U ED)

a diverse array of community leaders, in law enforcement, psychology, art expression, government and religion, on a moderated panel.

APRIL 7 RHYTHM & RUN 5K NORTH CAROLINA MUSIC HALL OF FAME This annual 5K benefits the NC Music Hall of Fame, the purpose of which is to promote and

Residential and Commercial Tree Service

commemorate our state's musical heritage.

24/7 Storm Damage Response

APRIL 11 - 16 HEDWIG & THE ANGRY INCH KNIGHT THEATER AT LEVINE CENTER FOR THE ARTS This award-winning musical that defies odds and the fourth wall comes to the Blumenthal

Tree Risk Evaluation

Performing Arts Center.

Pruning & Trimming

APRIL 22

Tree Health Care

LINCOLNTON FOOD, WINE & BREW FEST DOWNTOWN LINCOLNTON Enjoy local beer, wine and food trucks at this fun, family-friendly festival in the sweet town of Lincolnton.

APRIL 22

Professional Service with Immaculate Clean Up!

6TH ANNUAL SWEET ESCAPES MINT MUSEUM RANDOLPH Sweet Escapes returns with over 500 pounds of chocolate, food and drinks form the best purveyors in Charlotte, all to benefit the local homeless population.

APRIL 27 - 29 CHARLOTTE BALLET 'S

704-366-1134

WUTHERING HEIGHTS KNIGHT THEATER AT LEVINE CENTER FOR THE ARTS Emily Bronte's timeless tale of love and revenge finds new form by the hands—and toes—of Associate Artistic Director Sasha Janes.

800.277.9722 www.itex.com April 2017 | South Charlotte Lifestyle

Parting Thoughts

W H AT 'S IN M Y

GA R DE N R

osalie Holzinger, Master Gardener with Mecklenburg County Extension Service, shares what's budding, blooming and bursting into color in her expansive garden this time of year. "What's normally blooming in April," she repeats with a laugh. "This year, of course, things are different." Our warm spring just means we get to enjoy these sweet blossoms even longer!

OXEYE DAISY

VIRGINIA BLUEBELL

Leucanthemum vulgare

Mertensia virginica

CLIMBING MILKWEED

Cynanchum laeve

Also known as the common daisy, moon daisy and dog daisy, these sweet, creamy buds reach for the sun on stems marked by dark green leaves. It's a hardy plant and can handle sun to partial shade, though it prefers damp soil.

Also known as Virginia cowslip, lungwort oysterleaf and Roanoke bells, these delicate violet blooms drip from thin grey-green stems in full to partial shade. Their sweet nectar is a favorite for butterflies.

Also known as sand vine, blue vine and honey vine, climbing milkweed is known for its aggressive ascension (it can grow up to 15 feet!) and small, white blooms beloved by butterflies and bees. This vine likes moist soil and full sun, but will tolerate most conditions.

SIBERIAN IRIS

DIANTHUS

SUNDROPS

dianthus barbatus

Oenothera fruticosa

Iris sibirica

You'll find hundreds of varieties of dianthus around Charlotte in a spectrum of colors, from shell pink to vibrant magenta to white traced with rosy veins. As long as they receive at least six hours of sun daily and their soil drains well,

Buttery yellow flowers burst from leafy, verdant mounds in these aptly named sundrops. These perennials love sunshine and they'll bloom all summer long.

Slim and tall, these irises peek above other plants in gardens, held to the ground by thin green stalks and leaves. They bloom when the weather turns, but their foliage stays beautiful all year 'round. Siberian irises like full sun and well-drained soil.

you'll see a profusion of blooms.

WHAT ELSE WILL YOU FIND IN HOLZINGER'S GARDEN? NATIVE VINES

• Crossvine • Coral honeysuckle

GROUNDCOVERS • Sedum ternatum • Callaway ginger • Asarum canadensis

South Charlotte Lifestyle | April 2017

PERENNIALS

• Jack in the pulpit • Trillium • Solomon's seal • Trout lily • Atamasco lily • Blue flag, cristata and copper iris • Native columbine • Native blueberries • Mayapples

SHRUBS • Bloodroot • Indian pink • Minnie-pearl and moss pink phlox • Green & Gold • Poppies • Spiderwort • Early-blooming day lilies • Coral bells

• Azaleas • Spirea • Weigela • Kerria

TREES

• Blackhaw viburnum • Fringe tree • Red and yellow buckeye • Redbud • Dogwood • Fothergilla • Pomegranate

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