Charlotte Bobcats

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ALEX STEFANESCU

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• Awards & Certificates o SIFE Service Leadership Award o PRSSA Certificate of Membership • Charlotte Bobcats o News releases o Other items • CarolinaNightlife.com o News releases o Blog entries • Student Niner Media o Articles & Blog entries • Miscellaneous Items o SIFE Recruitment Flyer

AWARDS & CERTIFICATES

BOBCATS SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT, MOBILITIE ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIP

December 21, 2011 – Bobcats Sports & Entertainment President & COO Fred Whitfield announced today the organization has started a partnership with telecommunications infrastructure company, Mobilitie.

“We are delighted about our new partnership with Mobilitie,” said Whitfield. “We continually strive to make the fan experience at Time Warner Cable Arena the best in the business and Mobilitie will help us achieve that.”

Under the terms of the partnership Mobilitie will provide Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) that will enhance cellular coverage inside Time Warner Cable Arena. Visitors will have stronger signal, better cell phone reception and fewer dropped calls.

The distributed architecture of indoor DAS ensures that customers get wireless coverage inside buildings, in underground train stations and in all other types of indoor environments that traditionally have poor wireless coverage.

About Mobilitie: Mobilitie vision is to be the premier owner/investor and lessor of capital assets to global telecommunications companies. Our carrier-centric business structure allows us to offer industry-leading infrastructure terms and conditions which are unrivaled by any other telecommunications company. Our flexibility and efficiency help wireless and wireline carriers to preserve precious capital while accelerating network development. Designed by Carriers for Carriers, our proprietary operating covenants make Mobilitie financially and operationally far superior to any alternative for infrastructure ownership in North America, South America or Europe.

Bobcats Sports & Entertainment owns the Charlotte Bobcats and operates Charlotte’s Time Warner Cable Arena.

-bobcats.com-

CONTACT: B.J. Evans, (704) 688-8865, [email protected], Twitter: @BobcatsBBallPR Josh Rosen, (704) 688-8863, [email protected] Alex Stefanescu, (704) 688-8864, [email protected]

BOBCATS SIGN FORWARD BISMACK BIYOMBO

SEVENTH PICK IN THE 2011 NBA DRAFT CAME TO CHARLOTTE IN DRAFT NIGHT TRADE

December 19, 2011 – Charlotte Bobcats President of Basketball Operations Rod Higgins announced today that the team has signed rookie forward Bismack Biyombo. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

The seventh overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Bobcats acquired Biyombo’s rights from the Sacramento Kings as part of three-team trade on June 23, 2011, in which the Bobcats also acquired Corey Maggette from the Milwaukee Bucks and sent Stephen Jackson, Shaun Livingston and the draft rights to Tobias Harris to Milwaukee.

The 6-9 Biyombo spent the last two seasons playing professionally in Spain. He split the 2010-11 season between C.B. Illescas in LEB Silver and Baloncesto Fuenlabrada in the ACB. Biyombo started the season with C.B. Illescas, averaging 9.0 points, 6.4 rebounds and 1.9 blocks in 21.9 minutes over 14 games played. He later moved to Fuenlabrada, appearing in 14 contests with averages of 6.4 points, 5.1 rebounds and 2.3 blocks in 17.1 minutes

As a member of the World Select Team at the 2011 Nike Hoop Summit on April 9, Biyombo recorded the first triple-double in the history of the event, tallying 12 points, 11 rebounds and a Hoop Summit- record 10 blocked shots.

Bobcats Sports & Entertainment owns the Charlotte Bobcats and operates Charlotte’s Time Warner Cable Arena.

-bobcats.com-

CONTACT: B.J. Evans, (704) 688-8865, [email protected], Twitter: @BobcatsBBallPR Josh Rosen, (704) 688-8863, [email protected] Alex Stefanescu, (704) 688-8864, [email protected]

BOBCATS SIGN GUARD REGGIE WILLIAMS

December 15, 2011 – Charlotte Bobcats President of Basketball Operations Rod Higgins announced today that the team has signed guard Reggie Williams. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

The 6-6 Williams signed with the Warriors in March 2010 and spent the remainder of the 2009-10 season and all of 2010-11 with the team. In 104 total games, he has career averages of 10.6 points, 3.1 rebounds and 1.8 assists, while shooting .477 from the field (408-855) and .405 from beyond the three- point line (135-333). In 80 games played last season, he averaged 9.2 points, 2.7 rebounds and 1.5 assists, and ranked ninth in the NBA with a three-point field goal percentage of .423 (102-241).

Williams will have surgery in the coming days to repair a tear of the lateral meniscus in his left knee. He is expected to be sidelined for approximately 6-8 weeks.

Williams, who led all NCAA Division I players in scoring in both his junior and senior years at Virginia Military Institute, was not selected in the 2008 NBA Draft and spent the 2008-09 season playing in France before joining the Sioux Falls Skyforce of the NBA D-League for the 2009-10 season. A 2010 D- League All-Star, he was leading the league in scoring at 26.4 points per game and was named Player of the Month in February before being called up to the Warriors.

-bobcats.com-

CONTACT: B.J. Evans, (704) 688-8865, [email protected], Twitter: @BobcatsBBallPR Josh Rosen, (704) 688-8863, [email protected] Alex Stefanescu, (704) 688-8864, [email protected]

BOBCATS SIGN FORWARD/CENTER MELVIN ELY

December 14, 2011 – Charlotte Bobcats President of Basketball Operations Rod Higgins announced today that the team has signed forward/center Melvin Ely. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

An eight-year NBA veteran, Ely has played in 373 games for the Clippers, Bobcats, Spurs, Hornets and Nuggets. He holds career averages of 5.3 points and 3.3 rebounds, while shooting .460 from the field (780-1696). Last season, Ely averaged 2.3 points and 2.5 rebounds in 12.2 minutes in 30 games played for the Nuggets.

Ely previously played for the Bobcats from 2004-07, joining the team in a trade with the Clippers. He averaged 7.5 points and 4.0 rebounds in 160 games played for the Bobcats before being traded to the Spurs in February 2007. Ely had his best statistical season in 2005- 06, when he averaged career highs of 9.8 points, 4.9 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 23.6 minutes in 57 games played for the Bobcats.

Bobcats Sports & Entertainment owns the Charlotte Bobcats and operates Charlotte’s Time Warner Cable Arena.

-bobcats.com-

CONTACT: B.J. Evans, (704) 688-8865, [email protected], Twitter: @BobcatsBBallPR Josh Rosen, (704) 688-8863, [email protected] Alex Stefanescu, (704) 688-8864, [email protected]

BOBCATS SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT, SECOND HARVEST FOOD BANK OF METROLINA SERVE APPOROXIMATELY 4,000 PEOPLE AT CATS CARE CORNUCOPIA

November 22, 2011 – Bobcats Sports & Entertainment and Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina partnered to provide 1,000 Thanksgiving meals to low-income families Tuesday morning at Time Warner Cable Arena. Each meal was prepared to feed a family of four, resulting in approximately 4,000 people served.

Bobcats Sports & Entertainment President & COO Fred Whitfield, President of Basketball Operations Rod Higgins, Head Coach Paul Silas and Assistant Coaches Stephen Silas and Rob Werdann were in attendance and helped distribute the food. Joining them were additional Bobcats Sports & Entertainment staff, Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina staff, Rufus and the Lady Cats.

“Hunger is one of the most important issues facing our community and is one of the key pillars of our Cats Care initiative,” Whitfield said. “With today’s event, we continue toward our goal of helping families not go hungry during the holiday season.”

Each meal consisted of a turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, string beans, cranberry sauce, rolls, sweet potato pie and a two-liter bottle of Minute Maid lemonade provided by Coca-Cola. Paxton Van Lines provided the trucks to transfer the food from Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina to Time Warner Cable Arena.

“Today was special because we were able to interact with those whose lives we touched while also providing them with a Thanksgiving meal they may not otherwise have been able to have” said Higgins.

Through its Cats Care initiative, Bobcats Sports & Entertainment is committed to helping the needs of the community in the areas of education, hunger and wellness. Bobcats staff are actively engaged in the community, volunteering their time and efforts to serve these key areas.

-bobcats.com-

CONTACT: B.J. Evans, (704) 688-8865, [email protected], Twitter: @BobcatsBBallPR Josh Rosen, (704) 688-8863, [email protected] Alex Stefanescu, (704) 688-8864, [email protected]

LADY CATS TO UNVEIL 2011-2012 SWIMSUIT CALENDAR ON THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3

November 1, 2011 – The Charlotte Bobcats are proud to announce the unveiling of the 2011-2012 Lady Cats swimsuit calendar. Thursday, November 3, a reception at Mez in uptown’s EpiCentre complex will tip-off the day’s events followed by the official calendar launch party at Whisky River.

This year’s calendar spans 14 months from November 2011 to December 2012. All photos were shot right here in Charlotte. Fans will be able to purchase their own copy for $15.

The reception at Mez is scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. and will conclude at 7:00 p.m. The entire Lady Cats team will be in attendance. Calendars will be available for those wishing to purchase their copy. A meet and greet session is scheduled where fans will have the opportunity to get their calendar signed, talk and take pictures with their favorite Lady Cat.

The official swimsuit calendar launch party will begin at 8:30 p.m. at Whisky River. The Lady Cats team will also be making their appearance at this event. A swimsuit runway-style fashion show will take place simultaneous to the television debut of the official “Making Of” show on FS Carolinas at 9:00 p.m. The event is scheduled to conclude at 11:00 p.m.

Both events are free and open to the public.

The Lady Cats are the two-time defending champion of the NBA.com Dance Team Contest. In addition to performing during Bobcats games at Time Warner Cable Arena, the group makes charitable and promotional appearances both locally and nationally, visiting schools, hospitals, military bases and more. The team has also represented the Bobcats internationally in countries ranging from Mexico to Italy.

Bobcats Sports & Entertainment owns the Charlotte Bobcats and operates Charlotte’s Time Warner Cable Arena.

- bobcats.com -

CONTACT: B.J. Evans, (704) 688-8865, [email protected], Twitter: @BobcatsBBallPR Josh Rosen, (704) 688-8863, [email protected] Alex Stefanescu, (704) 688-8864, [email protected]

*** MEDIA ADVISORY *** LADY CATS TO UNVEIL 2011-12 SWIMSUIT CALENDAR

WHAT: The two-time defending NBA.com Dance Team Contest Champions will unveil the 2011-12 Lady Cats Swimsuit Calendar presented by Vemma at Mez and Whisky River in the EpiCentre

WHO: The Lady Cats

WHEN: Thursday, November 3, 2011 5:30-7:00 p.m. (Cocktail Reception at Mez) 8:30-11:00 p.m. (Swimsuit Fashion Show at Whisky River)

Red Carpet-style media availability will take place at Mez

WHERE: EpiCentre 210 E. Trade Street Charlotte, NC 28202

ABOUT: The Lady Cats will unveil their 2011-12 swimsuit calendar at a pair of events that are free and open to the public. The first will be a cocktail reception at Mez, followed by a runway-style swimsuit fashion show and the premiere of Fox Sports Carolinas’ “Making of the 2012 Lady Cats Swimsuit Calendar” at Whisky River.

The 14-month calendar, which spans November 2011-December 2012, will be available for sale at both locations for $15.

CONTACT: B.J. Evans, (704) 688-8865, [email protected], Twitter: @BobcatsBBallPR Josh Rosen, (704) 688-8863, [email protected] Alex Stefanescu, (704) 688-8864, [email protected]

Welcome to the 8th season of Charlotte Bobcats basketball. The 2011-12 NBA season is sure to bring a lot of excitement and fun to Time Warner Cable Arena. Our incoming rookies, Kemba Walker and Bismack Biyombo are eager to prove themselves at the next level. Newcomer Corey Maggette will bring his flair, prowess and veteran leadership to a group already consisting of high-fliers Gerald Henderson and Tyrus Thomas and speedster D.J. Augustin. Head coach Paul Silas and his staff will instill a fast paced style of play that will force turnovers resulting in exciting fast break opportunities and thundering finishes at the rim. We look forward to providing the best possible fan experience to you, our loyal supporters. Our entire basketball operations staff along with all of our coaches and players worked hard during the offseason to ensure that every home game will be an unforgettable experience you, your friends and your family.

Enclosed with this letter is a package containing your Charlotte Bobcats Season Passes. You’ll notice that this is quite different than the ticket booklet you normally receive. However, the passes work exactly the same as a paper ticket without all of the hassles. We believe that putting every game of the season on one card will make managing your tickets much easier. No longer will you be forced to dig through a ticket booklet looking for the correct game. The pass gives you the convenience of carrying your season ticket on a card that fits in your wallet.

Two main questions came up when this concept was previewed to other Season Ticket Holders.

How does the pass work?

You have received one (1) pass for each seat that you own. You will notice a bar code at the bottom of your card. For entry into Time Warner Cable Arena © simply show your card to the usher at the door and the card will be scanned just like a normal ticket. You will also notice the seat location in the lower right-hand section of your card. To access your seats, show your card to the usher working your section.

What if I want to give my seats away to a friend?

Giving your seats to a friend is easy. Simply logon to www.mybobcatsaccount.com and email your tickets to a friend so they can print at their home or office. For more information on how to do this please reference page 2 in the booklet inside of this package.

For further questions about the pass please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions on page 1 of the enclosed booklet, or call your account manager.

We look forward to seeing you at Time Warner Cable Arena!

NEWS RELEASE

April 27, 2011 Contact Information: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Hunter Wilson, Owner Phone: (704) 516-2674 E-mail: [email protected]

COUNTDOWN TO CINCO DE MAYO BAR CRAWL Epicentre to Host Free Mariachi Madness Event

CHARLOTTE, NC – CarolinaNightlife.com and Corona are bringing the Cinco de Mayo spirit to downtown Charlotte. Starting Wednesday, May 4 at 5 p.m. and concluding Thursday, May 5 at 2 a.m. Epicentre will host the official Mariachi Madness Countdown to Cinco de Mayo Bar

Crawl. This event is completely free for all attendees.

There will be many perks available for those in attendance. A live mariachi band will be playing all night and Corona girls will make an appearance. Guests will have multiple chances at winning great gifts. From 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Vida Cantina will have a Kenny Chesney ticket give-a-way for his show on May 19 in Columbia, SC. Wild Wing Café will offer the same give- a-way between 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. and Howl at the Moon from 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. Blackfinn will have an iPad 2 give-a-way in between 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. Strike City will give away an iPad 2 between 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. and Whisky River will hand out the last iPad 2 from 10 p.m. to 11

p.m. The grand prize of the night, a trip for two to Mexico, will be offered by Suite between 11 p.m. and midnight.

All venues will be offering $3 Corona and Corona Light. The first Corona will be free for attendees wearing a sombrero, compliments of CarolinaNightlife.com.

CarolinaNightlife.com is the one-stop, online nightlife resource guide for the Carolinas.

Throughout the region, tens of thousands utilize CarolinaNightlife.com to find out which bars, clubs, and restaurants are most popular from night to night. In addition, CarolinaNightlife.com provides useful information including hours of operation, directions, food/drink specials and on- location photo albums.

As more people continue to flock to the Carolinas, there become more opportunities for leisure and entertainment. CarolinaNightlife.com continues to accommodate to the growing nightlife scene, by providing a diverse range of resources. Regardless of individual tastes, local

"nightlifers" can find the information to plan an exciting night out with CarolinaNightlife.com.

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NEWS RELEASE

April 21, 2011 Contact Information: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Hunter Wilson, Owner Phone: 704-516-2674 Email: [email protected]

AFTERWORKCLT.COM TO REINVENT AFTER WORK NETWORKING New Website to Focus on 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Charlotte Events

CHARLOTTE, NC – AfterWorkCLT.com is a brand new website launched with the scope of revolutionizing after work networking events in the Charlotte area. The simplistic format of the website makes it easy to access information about events happening between 5 p.m. and 10 p.m.

There is no reason why cocktail hour should not be the best part of a professional’s day.

By using AfterWorkCLT.com, business professionals in the Charlotte area will be able to find out the best “happy hour” specials available for that particular day. The website is programmed to always know the day of the week and has the proper specials listed on the main page.

AfterWorkCLT.com will host monthly business networking events that will reinvent the way after work networking is being done. By simply registering for the event online, a profile will be automatically created for each business professional. That profile will in turn be the main source of the nametags that each professional will wear at the events. Each nametag will have the individual’s name and company information listed as well as a “tech” surprise that will make it much easier to connect professionals that networked at the event.

Instead of having events solely directed at one industry, the monthly AfterWorkCLT.com

events will host every industry in Charlotte from the arts to banking. Individual nametags will be color coordinated to determine who is part of what industry.

Each networking event will be sponsored by local beer, liquor and wine companies.

Local business can go to the website at any time and add their after work specials.

AfterWorkCLT.com is a quick and easy resource guide for professionals in Charlotte to find after-work events and specials. Connect with us via email or social media (Facebook,

Twitter LinkedIn, Meetup) to stay updated on new amazing after work events and specials!

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NEWS RELEASE

January 21, 2011 Contact Information: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Hunter Wilson, Owner Phone: (704) 516-2674 E-mail: [email protected]

WHERE’S WALDO BAR CRAWL ATTEMPTS TO BREAK WORLD RECORD The Most People Dressed as Where’s Waldo in One Place

CHARLOTTE, NC – CarolinaNightlife.com along with Corona Extra and Corona Light are organizing the Where’s Waldo Bar Crawl on Friday, February 25, 2011. The event is highlighted by the attempt to break the current Guinness Book of World Records standing record for “The Most People Dressed as Where’s Waldo in One Place.”

The event, hosted by the EpiCentre in uptown Charlotte, will start at 5 p.m. and last until

2 a.m. Tickets cost $7 if purchased in advance at www.whereswaldo.eventbrite.com and $10 at the door. Tickets will provide free access to any venue inside EpiCentre the entire night. The ticket window and check in will be located outside of Whisky River.

Participant’s costumes must consist of: a white bobble hat with a red bobble and red trim, clear glasses (sunglasses are not acceptable), a red and white striped shirt, blue jeans, and

appropriate footwear. Where’s Waldo costumes can be purchased from Morris Costumes on 300

Monroe Road, Charlotte NC 28205 or online at www.morriscostumes.com.

The current record was set in 2009 by Rutgers University students and stands at 1,052.

For more information, please contact Hunter Wilson at (704) 516-2674 or email at [email protected].

CarolinaNightlife.com is the one-stop, online nightlife resource guide for the Carolinas.

"nightlifers" can find the information to plan an exciting night out with CarolinaNightlife.com.

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University Area Light Rail Connection and its effect on Charlotte nightlife By: Alex Stefanescu

Most of you are probably familiar with the current LYNX Blue Line. It runs from I- 485 in South Charlotte all the way to Ninth Street in Center City. The Blue Line Extension will expand on the current rail by 9.4 miles. The corridor will go from Ninth Street, through NoDa and several University area locations with the last station being located on UNC Charlotte’s campus.

This is very exciting news for future students at the University and other residents in the University area. How many times have you struggled to find a designated driver to take you and your friends downtown? How many overpriced cab fares have you had to split amongst all of you to get back home after a night out? There are positives and negatives to having a secluded campus. One of the negatives is the distance between the University and the best clubs and bars in Charlotte. The Blue Line Extension will fix that problem.

The Trade Street station is one block away from EpiCentre. Students will literally be able to walk from their dorm, to the on-campus station, enjoy a 15 minute train ride followed by a two minute walk to all the fun and entertainment EpiCentre and the rest of Charlotte has to offer. The hassle of going uptown will become a breeze.

Of course LYNX plans to add other stations along the way. The latest revision to the plan has stations located at JW Clay Boulevard, University City Boulevard, Sugar Creek Road and McCullough Drive among others. Some stations will have park and ride capability as well. So if you prefer to ride your car to a station then hop on a train to avoid the early morning and afternoon rush hour, you’re in luck.

It will be another five years before the project is completed but don’t let that dampen your spirit. If you want more information and updates about the Blue Line Extension visit the Charlotte Area Transit System official website.

At the Movies: Oscars Edition By: Alex Stefanescu

A little over three weeks ago the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) announced the nominations for the 83rd Academy Awards. Ten movies were chosen to represent the best motion picture of the year category. Being the movie aficionado that I am, I have seen all ten of these films. Here are a few quick thoughts on each of them:

True Grit: A classic western directed by the Coen brothers (No Country for Old Men, The Big Lebowski). I am not a big fan of westerns but this movie has a lot going for it. Jeff Bridges and Matt Damon both deliver great performances and the 14-year-old Hailee Steinfeld is just awesome. What I was most impressed with however was the scenery and cinematography. The Coens created a perfect world for a western movie. Every single shot is so beautiful and elegant that it really brings the movie to life. Verdict, 8/10.

The King’s Speech: This seems to be every expert’s pick to win best picture this year. This film is about as British as British can be. The story focuses around the Royal family, more specifically King George VI (played by Colin Firth) and his struggles with a speech impediment. I know it sounds boring, but if you appreciate British cinema you’ll probably enjoy this one. Verdict, 8/10.

Inception: By now, most of you have probably seen or at least heard of this film. Christopher Nolan (Memento, Dark Knight) has delivered yet another amazing, mind twisting adventure. Despite the star-studded cast that includes Leonardo DiCaprio, Ellen Page and Michael Caine among others, this movie is all about the story. It purposely tries to confuse the viewer (the first scene in the movie is a dream, within a dream, within a dream, within a dream, within limbo, or is it?) but after all it is a movie about dreams right? What is more confusing than dreams? If you haven’t seen this yet, do yourself a favor and watch it as soon as possible. Verdict, 9/10.

Toy Story 3: This was my favorite movie of 2010. When I originally heard that Pixar was making a third installment to the series I didn’t know how to feel. I didn’t think a third sequel was needed. Wow was I wrong. Toy Story 3 is perfect on every level. Pixar has mastered the art of being able to take the viewers on an emotional rollercoaster from start to finish. Verdict, 10/10.

The Kids are Alright: This is a story about a family of two lesbian mothers and their children. The plot focuses around the kids’ desire to meet their sperm donor dad. There are some Oscar- worthy performances, Annette Bening in particular, but overall I found this film a little bland. It is carried by the acting and lacks in the story department. I am also unsure if the director, Lisa Cholodenko, meant for this to be a drama or a dark comedy. Verdict, 7/10.

The Social Network: If you like fast-paced films with a captivating storyline then this one is for you. Director David Fincher has been known to deliver these types of films (Fight Club and Se7en to name two) and he has done it again here. This is the type of film that if you blink at the wrong time you might miss an incredibly witty line (the movie is filled with them). Anyway, if you think a movie about the creation of Facebook sounds boring then I challenge you to see it before making up your mind. Verdict, 9/10.

Winter’s Bone: Slooooooooooooooooooooooooow! By far the most boring movie out of the bunch. Jennifer Lawrence delivers a pretty good performance (Oscar nomination worthy though?) as Ree, a young girl living with her senile mother and two younger siblings in a drug- infected town in the Ozark Mountains. She needs to find her missing father in order to avoid the state from repossessing their house. That is basically all you need to know. Nothing too exciting ever really happens and every person she meets along the way is more boring than the last. Verdict, 6/10.

Black Swan: This film is unlike anything you have ever seen before. Director, Darren Aronofsky along with lead actress, Natalie Portman, created an awesome flick together. It can best be categorized as a psychological thriller but it is so much more than that. The story focuses around an ensemble for the Swan Lake ballet. Natalie Portman’s character, Nina, is part of the new ensemble and struggles with the pressures of delivering the perfect performance. You have to see this. It is nuts! Verdict, 9/10.

127 Hours: In May 2003, Aron Ralston, was mountain climbing in Utah. Then he fell into a deep hole, his arm got stuck between the rock wall and a boulder, and in order to survive he had to amputate his arm with a dull knife. 127 Hours is a movie about that incredible survival story. James Franco is great as Ralston. If you are queasy you probably shouldn’t see this. If you don’t like movies where the entire time is taken up by mostly one character, you probably shouldn’t see this. If you don’t fit under those last two categories then see it. Verdict, 8/10.

The Fighter: I went and saw this at the EpiCentre Theaters with my lady friend a few weeks ago. Boxing movie for a date you ask? It was good! She actually enjoyed it. The cast is incredible (Mark Wahlberg, Christian Bale, Amy Adams) and the story is uplifting. It is definitely worth seeing. Verdict, 8/10.

Among these ten films, Black Swan, The Fighter, The King’s Speech and True Grit are still playing at theaters around Charlotte. The Oscars are this Sunday, Feb. 28, so there is still time to brush up on the best movies of the year. Whether you choose to go with a British drama, an American western, a boxing film or a psychological thriller, you really can’t go wrong with any of them so enjoy your night out at the movies.

Bar Review: Eastfield Bar & Grill By: Alex Stefanescu

Besides all the delicious food and great service that Eastfield Bar & Grill has to offer there is something that stands above everything else:

- Every Thursday, half-off all North Carolina brewed beers (bottles and drafts)

If you are a fan of local brews then this place is for you. I remember going there for the first time a few months back and being blown away by the selection of in-state brews. They don’t stick with the same selection either. Anyone from the bartenders to their official Facebook page (type Eastfield Bar & Grill in the Facebook search bar to find it) will take suggestions for new local brews if they don’t already carry them. If you’re going to go to a bar in North Carolina, might as well drink some beer that was brewed in North Carolina right?

Located at the intersection of Prosperity Church Rd. and Eastfield Rd. in Northeast Charlotte in the Arbor Creek shopping center (8709 Arbor Creek Drive, Charlotte, NC 28269), it is a convenient 15 minute drive from the University area and a 10 minute drive from the Lake Norman area.

When you walk inside you immediately get a feeling of newness. The place has only been open for a few years and it is telling. The bar, the chairs, the tables and the art located all around the room feels and looks very crisp and clean. There is also an outdoor patio, fully furnished with tables and chairs and tiki torches for those who want to enjoy their drinks and food outdoors.

Speaking of food, their menu includes everything from classic starters such as buffalo chicken tenders and traditional chips and salsa to soups and salads, burgers, pressed sandwiches, a kids menu and full entrees, including vegetarian options such as veggie lasagna.

Besides the “can’t miss” Thursday special, other weekly specials include:

- Tuesday, $4 you-call-it’s - Friday, $5 Martini’s - Saturday, $4 Whiskey and Bourbon’s - Sunday, $4 Bloody Mary’s and Mimosa’s

Eastfield Bar & Grill is open Monday - Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. For more information, contact them at 704-464-1164

Summer Concerts in the Queen City By: Alex Stefanescu

It’s already mid April and the weather has finally decided to settle down a bit, personally I was getting tired of the 85 degrees one day and 55 degrees the next. While for some summer time means getting out on the lake or going to beach, we can all pretty much agree that not many things are better than a concert in the summer time.

Charlotte will have its fair share of them in the coming months. Below, I have highlighted some of the more important dates that concert goers need to pay attention to this summer.

Time Warner Cable Arena: - Josh Groban, Straight To You Tour, June 10, 2011 - Keith Urban, Get Closer Tour, June 24, 2011 - Taylor Swift, Speak Now Tour, July 8, 2011

If indoor concerts aren’t your thing, here are some of the offerings at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater this summer: - Kenny Chesney with Billy Currington and Uncle Kracker, Goin’ Coastal Tour, June 2, 2011 - Phish, June 17, 2011 - Def Leppard with very special guest Heart, June 22, 2011 - Zac Brown Band, July 3, 2011 - Motley Crue and Poison with very special guests New York Dolls, July 12, 2011 - Vans Warped Tour, July 28, 2011 - Journey with special guests Foreigner and Night Ranger, Aug. 21, 2011 - Kid Rock with Cheryl Crow, Aug. 27, 2011

The NC Music Factory has many shows lined up this summer as well: - The Flaming Lips, May 17, 2011 - Blue October, May 18, 2011 - Deftones with Dillinger Escape Plan and Le Butcherettes, May 26, 2011 - Panic at the Disco, May 31, 2011 - ZZ Top, June 2, 2011 - The Uptown Charlotte Jazz Festival, June 24-25, 2011 - Wiz Khalifa, July 20, 2011 - Goo Goo Dolls, August 9, 2011 - Chicago, August 13, 2011

For ticket information and complete listings of all the shows visit: http://www.timewarnercablearena.com/page/events/events (Time Warner Cable Arena) http://www.livenation.com/Verizon-Wireless-Amphitheatre-Charlotte-tickets- Charlotte/venue/114764 (Verizon Wireless Amphitheater) http://ncmusicfactory.com/category/events (NC Music Factory)

What can we expect at Speed Street this year? By: Alex Stefanescu

It’s May and that means Speed Street 2011 is right around the corner. May 26-28, uptown Charlotte will host what has become one of the largest events the city has to offer.

Race fans from around the country, in town for the Coca-Cola 600, flock to the streets of uptown Charlotte in preparation to partake in NASCAR themed events, food, fun and the very popular free concerts.

Many fans left disappointed last year when strong thunderstorms overtook the Charlotte skies. Both the Josh Turner and Everclear shows were cancelled. “After last year’s uncontrollable weather situation, we did everything possible to bring back both Josh Turner and Everclear for our fans,” said Jay Howard, president of JHE Production Group Inc. and event promoter and producer. Josh Turner and Everclear will take to the Coca-Cola stage at 9:30 p.m. on May 27 while Everclear will be playing on the Miller Lite stage during the same time.

The event will open with shows by American soul and R&B band Rose Royce, Midnight Star and country music artist Pat Green. Eddie Money, known for hits such as “Two Tickets to Paradise” and “Baby Hold On” will perform on May 28 along with Starship and Clay Walker.

This year, the footprint of the festival will be slightly different than in years past. The Coca-Cola stage will now be located in front of the NASCAR Hall of Fame main entrance on Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. “The new layout will allow NASCAR’s biggest fans and Charlotte families to enjoy all the festival has to offer and experience the many attributes of the NASCAR Hall of Fame,” said Howard.

Hello Niner Nation! By: Alex Stefanescu

I am a new blogger for Niner Online and I would like to formally introduce you to my new weekly blog.

I am a passionate Charlotte 49ers fan (no, not just in men’s basketball, in every sport) and have been for as long I have attended Charlotte. I am a senior (graduating this upcoming December) and I couldn’t believe that I was almost done with my education at this amazing university having never shared my thoughts on Niner sports with all of you.

This blog (currently without a name; comment if you have suggestions!) will be written from the perspective of a fan. I don’t want to write game recaps, that’s not what this space is about. My goal is to write about Niner sports in a way that a fan would discuss them with his or her friends. I am passionate about this university and about our athletics and hopefully that will transfer in my writing. I want you, the readers, to be involved! Please comment if you disagree, if you agree, if you have a different take, if you think I should be taken off the site, anything! Your input will make me better. It’s a blog by a fan for the fans.

With the basketball season coming down the stretch and the baseball season starting this weekend, most of my blogs will be focused on those two sports. Once a month I will have a blog specifically dedicated to former Niner athletes who are now playing professionally. I will post at least one blog per week and, once again, your comments are welcome and encouraged.

Feel free to contact me at [email protected] if you have any questions or suggestions.

49ers Football Has its Coach By: Alex Stefanescu

It hasn’t felt real up to this point, but having just left the press conference where Brad Lambert was officially introduced as the first head coach in Charlotte 49ers football history, I can honestly, with 100 percent certainty, say that Charlotte is officially a football school.

Take a moment and just let that sink in.

I know, I can’t stop smiling either.

Lambert has been working at Wake Forest under head coach, Jim Grobe, since 2001. He coached the linebackers until 2007 and in 2008 he was promoted to defensive coordinator. His career in football didn’t start there. He was a player at Kansas State, a graduate assistant at Oklahoma, an assistant coach at Marshall (where he was part of a national championship team in 1992), and an assistant coach at Georgia (where he coached former Panther, Will Witherspoon and took part in four bowl games).

Some are disappointed with the hire. Names such as former NC State coach Chuck Amato or former Clemson coach Tommy Bowden have been passed around different Niner circles in the past weeks. Lambert doesn’t have the name recognition that those two have, but at the end of the day, there are reasons why both those gentlemen aren’t coaching today. Everyone has to start somewhere and I am ecstatic that coach Lambert has chosen Charlotte to begin his head- coaching career.

The first class of players won’t be signed until next spring and practices won’t begin until the 2012 fall semester. The on-campus stadium groundbreaking is set for April 28 at 3:30 p.m. The first game is scheduled for August 31, 2013. Basically, a large part of Lambert’s job up to that point will be public relations. After witnessing his press conference, I don’t think selling this program to Charlotte will be a problem. He showed great confidence and charisma and came across as a top-notch individual.

Brad Lambert, Charlotte 49ers football head coach. It is official. Welcome to Niner Nation coach!

Also of note: During the press conference, Lambert officially introduced former West Virginia offensive coordinator (2008-2010), Jeff Mullen, as his offensive coordinator at Charlotte. Mullen was in attendance.

Niners Baseball: First Quarter Report By: Alex Stefanescu

Twenty-five games into a 55 game season, the Charlotte 49ers baseball team is sitting on a 19-6 record overall and a 2-1 record in Atlantic 10 play.

Those of you who follow the program closely probably remember from last season just how important conference games are. The A-10 is not a strong baseball conference which basically means that in order for the Niners to take part in a NCAA Regional, they must win the conference tournament. Before the tournament however, it is important that they secure first place in the regular season standings. A series win against Rhode Island this weekend was a good first step towards achieving that goal.

The Niners started the season in tremendous fashion, demolishing Coppin State with an overall score of 61-1 over four games. Missouri, a much tougher opponent from a solid baseball conference, the Big XII, followed. The Niners once again proved to be the superior team in winning the four game series 3-1, including a 22-7 score in the final game.

Disappointing losses thus far include a 4-2 encounter at UNC-Chapel Hill, a 7-1 home loss on March 11 against Ball State (Charlotte went on to win the three game series), a 7-1 home loss against Wake Forest on March 15 (Charlotte avenged this loss with a thrilling 13-10 win at Wake Forest a week later) and a 4-1 loss at Duke on March 16.

The Niners are hitting .305 as a team so far, good enough for 3rd best in the A-10. They are second in conference in the runs scored category. The team ERA is 2.01, by far the best in the conference. Sophomore pitcher, Corey Roberts is leading the team and the A-10 with a 0.84 ERA.

Charlotte is facing two back to back non-conference games (vs. UNC-Chapel Hill, at South Carolina-Upstate) before entering the thick of their conference schedule. A three game home series against Xavier (16-9, 2-1) will be key in determining the early leader in the standings. Immediately following Xavier, Charlotte will travel to St. Joseph’s for a three game series against the Hawks.

With a 17-4 home record thus far, Hayes Stadium has proved to be quite the fortress for the Niners, so if you haven’t so far, come out and support our guys for the rest of the season.

GO NINERS!

Niners in the Pros: Jon Busch By: Alex Stefanescu

Today, Jon Busch is one of the top goalkeepers in Major League Soccer, but between 1994-96 Busch defended the Charlotte 49ers men's soccer goal better than anyone else had done up to that point and since. He was a first team All-American in 1996 which was also the same year he helped the 49ers reach the College Cup (the Final Four of the soccer NCAA Tournament). It is still the only College Cup appearance the Niners have ever had.

Despite his tremendous college career, Busch was not drafted by MLS. He spent numerous seasons defending the goal of several United Soccer League (a lower level soccer league similar to the minors in baseball) teams. His success continued at the USL level and in 2002 the Columbus Crew, one of the original MLS franchises took a chance on him. A year later he was the full time starter in goal for the Crew.

In 2004 he was a finalist for the MLS Goalkeeper of the Year award. His terrific season was unfortunately followed by several injuries. He was eventually waived by the Crew and then by expansion franchise Toronto FC eventually landing a roster spot with the Chicago Fire in 2007. He was mostly a back-up his first season in Chicago. Luckily for him, Matt Pickens (the starter at the time) decided to take an opportunity with an English club and when the 2008 season rolled around, Busch was the starter. That season he went on to win the award that he had lost in 2004 and was picked for the MLS Best XI team. He was selected to the MLS All-Star team and was the only Fire player to play every minute of every match.

His success with the Fire started to dwindle in the following seasons. In the spring of 2010 the Fire announced that they would be restructuring financially and that meant certain players would suffer. Unfortunately for Busch, he was one of those players. Despite his fantastic service for the club, Busch was waived on March 22, 2010. The move caused a bit of a stir among MLS bloggers and fans alike.

He was not unemployed for long. Six days later, the San Jose Earthquakes picked him up off waivers and soon he became the full time starter. He was part of a deep playoff run by the Earthquakes last season as they reached the Western Conference finals. He continues to defend the goal for the Earthquakes today. So far this season he has started in all three matches, posting one shutout and a 1.000 goals against average.

Niners Extend Winning Streak, Defeat Campbell By: Alex Stefanescu

The Charlotte 49ers improved to 7-1-0 on the season and extended their winning streak to five games on Saturday night in front of 2,693 fans at Transamerica Field.

In less than prime playing conditions (heavy rain throughout the afternoon made for a slick playing surface), Charlotte and visitors Campbell struggled early on in the first half. Half chances were present at both ends but free flowing soccer was not seen until the 19th minute when a nice weighted cross by Evan James from the right side of the box found the head of Guiseppe Gentile who put it away coolly with a confident finish.

Three minutes later Charlotte nearly doubled its advantage but Gentile’s shot hit the left post of Campbell’s goal.

With 11 minutes to go in the first half, a horrible back pass by a Campbell defender put Owen Darby through on goal but his shot ricocheted off a defender and then eventually off the crossbar before being cleared by the Camels.

Charlotte was unlucky to go into the half only up a goal. It seemed that once the Niners figured out the speed of the playing surface they completely took control of the match. Playing in a classic 4-4-2 formation, the Niners were able to attack at will and kept solid possession of the ball.

The second half, just the like the first, started sloppily. Neither team managed to control midfield for the first 15 minutes. Charlotte started the half by sitting back, possibly to rest their legs a bit after an intense finish to the first half. Realizing that Campbell did not have the attacking prowess to bother their goal, the Niners went on the attack and were rewarded with a second goal by James in the 68th minute.

Charlotte continued to attack and could have added another on a beautiful volley attempt from outside the 18 yard box in the 78th minute.

Up next, the Niners will face their toughest test so far this season. They travel to College Park, MD to take on the number one ranked Maryland Terrapins on Tuesday, September 27.

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