The game starts at 8:20pm at bank of aAmerica Stadium tonight. ( 800 S Mint St, Charlotte NC, 28202)  This should be a great game!  The only problem is…..who should I cheer for?  My home town is Miami FL but I do love the Panthers. I think I will go for which ever team is winning! LOL.  For more information go to www.panthers.com

      Southern Christmas Show

      This Saturday and Sunday drop by the Southern Christmas Show at The Park (2500 East Independence Blvd).  We went to the show last weekend and really enjoyed it. The kids loved watching the trains and looking at all the decorations. If you love to shop, this is the place for you! It’s a sure way to get  yourself into the Christmas Spirit! For more information go to www.charlottesgotalot.com

          Beaujolais wine Tasting Festival

     Come celebrate the first grape harvest of the year!  Come taste the 2009 Beaujolais Nouveau and sample other wines from the Beaujolais region. This event is held by the Charlotte International Cabinet & Alliance Francise.  Al the fun starts at 5pm and runs until 8:30pm at the Levin Museum of the New South.  $25 for members and $30 for non-members.  Go to www.afcharlotte.com  for more information.

  Concord  Christmas Parade

       This Saturday come enjoy the Parade at 2:30pm in downtown Concord. This tradition has been going on since 1928 and gets better every year!  I had a very hard time trying to find the parade route for you so I will list this contact # 704-932-3808. I used to live in Concord in the late 90’s and always loved this parade so enjoy!

    GIVE  ART!

 Bring your friends and come enjoy a festive display of artistic creations by 10 diverse artists.  Jewelry, Pottery, Paintings and Photography!  It all starts this Friday from 6 to 9pm and Saturday from 10 to 4pm at 4720 Carmel Park Lane  Charlotte NC, 28226.  For more information call 704-366-0565.  These are very talented artist, one of which is a friend of mine so come support them.

    NoDa Gallery Crawl

      Now this is where I will be this Friday Night!  Come strolll through through the galleries and enjoy the art and music.  It’s a great place to meet friends out and have a wonderful time.  Looks like the weather will be crisp and cool outside, perfect!   Go to www.noda.org 

Charlotte Auto Show

    Are you into CARS? Do you like to chit chat about your Hot Rod  with the best of them? Well.. clear your weekend and make it out to the Charlotte International Auto Show. All the fun starts tonight and runs until Sunday. This event is being held at the Charlotte Convention Center ( 501 S College St  Charlotte NC,28202 ) Admission is $8 for adults and children 12 and under are free. For for info go to www.charlotteautoshow.com

It should be a beautiful weekend so whatever you choose to do enjoy it and keep safe!

April

       Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, friends and family to Symphony Park at Southpark Mall. Enjoy listening to the music while tasting hundeds of wines from the state of North Carolina. Stroll through the art exibits and enjoy the great food! For more information go to www.uncorkthefun.com/charlotte-north-carolina /site-info. The Festival is located at 4400 sharon Rd Charlotte Nc 28211.

  Amazing Maize Maze at Rural Hill

  If you have never tried this before you really need too. Find your way through a 7 acre corn field , take a hayride or stroll through the pumpkin patch. Located at 4431 neck Rd , Huntersville NC 28078. Visit the website for more information. www.ruralhill.net

  Woods of Terror

  Now this is my idea of a good time! Woods of Terror is celebrating its 18th year.  It is the largest haunt in three states as well as the scariest!  Go to www.woodsofterror.com for complete details. Woods of Terror is located in Greensboro Nc on Church Street.

  Next Level MMA Presents  “Battlegrounds”

  If you love mixed Marial Arts then this is the Event that you won’t want to miss. This Saturday at the Cabarrus Arena & Events Center in Concord is the place to be. Doors open at 6pm and the fight starts at 7pm.  The Womens Superfight is not to be missed.  (Yum vs  Engel )  Jenny Yum trains at Hard Target ( www.hardtargetnc.com). She is an incredible fighter. I am lucky enough to see her train when I take my son to class at Hard Target during the week. Don’t miss this event!  Located at 4751  NC  HWY49 North, Concord NC, 28025. For ticket info call  704-920-3976 or go to www.cabarrusarena.com

  Repticon Reptile and exotic animal Show

 Do you like creepy crawlies? How about scaley things? Well, clear yor calendar because you won’t want to miss this show. There will be educational seminars , kids activities, live animal shows as well as wholesale prices on pets and supplies. For more info go to www.repticon.com or call 863-268-4273 . Located at the Cabarrus Arena & Event Center ( 4751 NC HWY 49 North, Concord NC 28025.)

  As  always, have a safe and happy weekend!

April

     Blues, Brews & BBQ Festival

   Come enjoy the best of Southern Cuisine and Southern Music.  Taste  BBQ from competitors trying to win the best. Don’t miss the interactive cooking demos  and beer sampling.  This free Festival starts on Friday at 11:30am and Saturday at 11:00. This is really a fun time for all! I will be there tasting as much BBQ as humanly possible!   The Festival is located in Uptown Charlotte ( Trade and Tryon )

  Suessical

  Don’t miss the chance to see Suessical at Theater charlotte . ( 501 Queens Rd, Charlotte NC 28207)  This production runs from 9/10 to 9/27  .  the show starts at 8pm this Friday and Saturday. Go to www.carolinatix.org for ticket information and pricing.

Beethoven’s  “Emperor”

If your in the mood for incredible music than look no further. This event goes on this Friday and Saturday with a pre-concert talk starting at 7pm. For more information go to charlottesymphony.org .   For ticket information call  704-972-2000.

The Amazing Maize Maze

The Amazing Maize Maze  is located in Rural Hill ( 4431 Neck Rd , Huntersville, NC 28078). It is a seven acre cornfield designed to entertain you and also challenge you!  Open Thursday through Sunday  from 10:00am with the last ticket sold at 5:00pm.  Adults $10 and youth 5-12 $7.  Children under 4 are free.  Go to www.ruralhill.net  for more information.

Visit to the Greek Isles Cooking Class

On Saturday at 11:00am  enjoy cooking from farm to table with Chef Gene.  Learn the simple steps on how to prepare Chef Gene’s delicious recipes. Each dish is served  and paired with fine wines available for purchase at a discount price.  Located at Blue Restaurant ( 214 N. Tryon Street, Suite 100, Charlotte NC 28202). Cost $39.95 per person and 21 and over. For more information call 704-927-2583.

Cabarrus  County Fair

The fair begins 9/11 and runs through 9/19.  Located at  Cabarrus Arena & Events Center ( 4751 Highway 49 North, Concord, NC 28025). For more information go to www.cabarruscountyfair.com for details.

Central  Carolina Fair

 Come enjoy agricultural exhibits, exciting rides, shows midway games and animal displays! Located at (1921 West Lee Street, Greensboro NC 27403. This Fair runs from 9/11 to 9/20. Go to www. centralcarolinafair.com for more details.

Food Lion Auto Fair

If you love cars than this is the event for you!  Located at Lowe’s Motor Speedway (5555 Concord Pkwy. south, Concord NC 28027) . Come enjoy the World’s Largest auto Extravaganza ( 9/10-13).  There will be car shows, parts memorabilia vendors and  collector cars. The car corral will feature nearly 2,000 cars for sale or trade. Go to wwww.lowesmotorspeedway.com  for more details.

Do you know Birds

This is for my birdy loving friends, you know who you are.  On Saturday 9am to 5pm  enjoy all the programs in english and Spanish. There will be food ,music, raptor arts and crafts, face painting, henna tattoos, flight shows, reptile programs and live bird presentations. All activities are free except for the flight show which is $2. All the fun is located at the Carolina Raptor Center( 6000 samle Rd, Huntersville NC 28078).

  As Always  have a safe and happy weekend!

April

       15th  Annual Festival of India

 This Saturday and Sunday come out for the India Festival held down town at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center.  Sample Indian culture and cuisine.  Enjoy classical and folk dances in this carnival  style atmosphere. You can watch yoga, wear a sari or get your hands painted with henna. I have attended this Festival  for the past two years and it is a wonderful time!  This event runs Saturday 12-7 and Sunday 12-6. There is a $5 admission fee and children under 10 are free. For more info go to www.indiafestival.net

  Charlotte Music Festival

  Don’t miss the Charlotte Music Festival held at Tremont Music Hall ( 400 W. Tremont Ave Charlotte NC 28203) There are more bands than I could names so check out the details on www.tremontmusichall.com . Call 803-665-2527 for ticket info.

  Matthews Alive ! Festival

  The Matthews Alive! Festival is a Labor Day weekend celebration dedicated to the support of local non-profit organizations through music,arts and community involvment.  This event runs from 9/4 to 9/7.  Go to http://www.matthewsalive.org/

   Brazilian Dance

   The Ife Cultural Center located at 200 Hampton Church Rd holds free Capoeira worshops on Sundays from 12pm to 2pm.  Samba workshops on Saturdays from 11am to 1:15pm. For more information and cost of Samba  workshop call 843-817-3215

 Peek -A- Boo  Couture

  Enter your child in the Cutest Kid/Teen this Sunday from 1 to 4 at 1315 East Blvd Suite 150 , Charlotte ,NC 28203. To participate , simply stop by between 1 and 4 this Sunday and choose  one  item from our Coutour Collection at 25% off and receive a FREE photo shoot with Richard Israel ( voted best kids/teen photogragher in 2008).  Your childs photo will be posted on the website. Who ever gets the most votes wins. For more details call 704-332-5338

   AS ALWAYS HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY WEEKEND!

April

 Movies under the Stars- Southpark

   This Friday is the last show in its series.  Come enjoy the music and activities at 6:00pm at 4400 Sharon Rd ,Charlotte 28211.  Kung Fu Panda will light up the 42 foot screen at 9:00pm. Don’t forget to pack the snacks, bring the lawn chairs and blankets. It’s a great way to enjoy the night under the stars for FREE!

  ALIVE  Comedy Club in NoDa

    Are you in the mood to laugh? Well, here is where you need to go.  ALIVE Comedy Club in North Davidson (2909 North Davidson Street ,Charlotte 28205) Shows run Friday and Saturday  night.  Jarrod Harris and Dave Stone will make you laugh until it hurts.  Check out www.matthewscomedyzone.com for pricing and details.

  Cedric the Entertainer

  Don’t miss this chance to see Cedric the Entertainer this Friday night at 8:00pm.  This is a great event for the whole family. Located at Bojangles Coliseum ( 2700 East Independence Blvd, Charlotte 28205) Prices range from $39.50 to $54.50.  Check out  the website for more details. www.bojanglescoliseum.com

 Rodney  Strong  Wine Tasting

   This Friday  at Gallery Restaurant ( 1000 Ballantyne Commons Parkway, Charlotte 28277) It all starts at 6pm for those of us 21 and over. Sample distinctive fine wine and see how it enhances food. Price $15.00 should be confirmed with restuarant.

   Salsa Dancing, Tapas and Wine Party

    This Friday night live life on the wild side at Queen City Ballroom ( 10403 Park Rd Suite 1 ,Charlotte 28210) Salsa Wheel lessons begin At 8:00pm followed by tapas and wine afterward. For more information call 704-541-5440.

    Panthers -vs-Ravens

   If you’re a TRUE Panthers fan you won’t want to miss their Pre-Season game this Saturday at 8pm ( Bank of America Stadium 800 South Mint Street, Charlotte 28202)  If you have never been to a night game, don’t miss your chance!  I will be there there with my Peppers jersey on ,screaming ,yelling and cheering them on!  Hope to see you there. For more infrmation go to www.panthers.com 

  Dragon Fly Delight

This Saturday take a trip through the fields, forest and pond in search of these incredible insects.  Learn facts and folklore that the whole family will enjoy. Located at Reedy Creek Park ( 2900 Rocky River Rd, Charlotte) Activities go from 9-11. For more information call 704-336-7600 or go to www.parkandrec.com

   Golden Dragon Chinese Acrobats

   Hailing from Hebei and China, this group honors the 27 century old tradition of  Chinese Acrobats. For one night only at Winthrope University, Brynes Auditorium (701 West Oakland Ave, Rockhill SC 29733). The show starts at 8pm. Tickets are $10 and Winthrope students who show their ID get a discount. For more information call 803-323-2211.

  Yiasou Greek Festival 5K

   If you like to run you might as well run for a good cause.   The 5K Race is Sponsored by Presbyterian Orthopedic Hospital.  All the fun starts at 8am on Saturday morning at  Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church ( 600 East Blvd, Charlotte 28203). Each participant  will receive two free tickets to the Annual Greek Festival held on September 10-13. You can register for the race at  www.registration@runforyourlife.com or call 704-358-0717 for more info. 

    Southern Ideal Show/ Southern Kitchen and Bath Show

    This Saturday and Sunday at The Park ( Formally Charlotte Merchandise Mart)you can shop, compare prices on remodeling, landscaping and home decor and so much more.  Located at 2500 East Independence Blvd, Charlotte 28205.  Hours are Sat 10-9 and Sun 10-5.  Price: $9:00 at the door 15 and younger are free with a paying adult. Go to www.southernshows.com for more info. 

  As Always, have a Wonderful and Safe Weekend!

   April

    Civil War Infantry Weekend

   Visit with a variety of Civil War Soldiers as they demonstrate drills and  camp life. There will be firing demos as well.  This will be held at Historic Latta Plantation ( 5225 sample Rd, Huntersville NC 28078).  Saturday 10-4 and Sunday 1-4.  Adults $6.00 ;  Seniors , students $5.00.  Children 5 and under are free.

    Hummingbird  Festival

  This Saturday from 10 to 4  at the Reedy Creek Center ( 2900 Rocky River Rd, Charlotte  NC  28215).  It’s for the birds! Come enjoy crafts, nature walks , face painting , story telling as well as demonstrations in bird banding. This event is free but donations are appreciated.

   Stream Hike  at McDowell Nature Preserve

   If you are feeling outdoorsy and want to soak up the last few days of summer vacation outside then this is for you.  Cool down and discover salamanders, crawfish and water pennies and more as you explore the four seasons Creek. You will get wet! Comfortable water shoes are encouraged. Meet at McDowell Nature Center (15222 York Rd, Charlotte NC 28278) for this 3/4 mile hike on moderate terrain. Program starts at 1:30.

   Summer Saturdays at the White Water Center

   This Saturday continues the weekly concert series at the White Water Center (5000 Whitewater center Parkway , Charlotte NC 28214) Music starts at 6pm.  Come enjoy the view.

  Taste of Latin America Festival

   This free event will represent more than 20 Latin American Countries. There will be food , folklore and presentations. Located at Calvery Church ( 5801 Pineville-Matthews Rd , Charlotte NC 28226)  This event is Saturday only and runs from 3 to 7.:30pm

  Shrimp Boil and Oyster Roast

  If you find yourself out and about near Gastonia on Saturday swing by South Hampton Swim & Racquet Club. (2813 kendrick Rd , Gastonia NC 28056).  All the fun starts at 7:30pm and goes on until  9:30pm.  There will be live entertainment and lots of food. This is a benefit event for the Communities in Schools Program of Gaston County. What a great cause!  

  Have a Safe and Happy weekend!

Quick note (all numbers are from Carolina Multiple listing Service- information is believed to be accurate but not guarenteed)

    In Mecklenburg County employment  increased by 129 jobs in April and May but the number of those looking for a job also increased.  The effect of  these two trends was an increase in the average monthly unemployment rate from 10.2%  for the first quarter and  10.6%  in the first two months of the second quarter. The solid job growth may provide home sales, while historically low mortgage rates boost affordability.

     In Mecklenburg County the average sales price is $227,800 for the 2nd quarter which is up from the 1st quarter price ( $197,700). This number is expected to go down a bit in the 3rdquarter.  The number of homes on the market has gone up in the 2nd quarter( 8,573) from the 1st quarter numbers(8,370). This number is expected to go up in the 3rd quarter . More homes are being sold, 2nd quarter( 2,049) from 1st quarter (1,457).  There has been a slight increase in New Homes being built, 2nd quarter (216) from 1st quarter (202).  The average  days of a home for sale being on the market has increased slightly also. It has gone from 101 days to 104 days.

      The area with the most homes under contract is North Mecklenburg County with 207.  The average sales price is $209,407  with a 95.90% of the  asking  price.  So after negotiations on average  people recieved 95.90% of what they listed their house for. Most areas range in the low to mid 90,s.  The highest average  sales price after negotiations is  the Myers Park area coming in at  $393,029. Inventory is up and it is still a buyers market.  In spite of all that  we hear in the media of the housing market we must all remember that Real Estate is regional. Trends in Real Estate are slow to change. Although it may be tougher to get a loan  it is still a great time to buy.  I hope this information was helpful to you. If you would like to see more information on this subject or another please comment and let me know.

April Yocum

                Charlotte  Irish Festival

     If you are Irish, like festivals or just enjoy the color green you should head to uptown Charlotte for the third Annual Irish Festival.  There will be food, drinks and games, including a cornhole tournament ( I don’t know what that is). There will also be an attempt at a new world record for largest choreographed riverdance. The festival begins at 6pm today and resumes at 12pm on Saturday. Located at 3rd street and Tryon.  It should be a great time for the whole family. Hope to see you there!  For more information  go to   www.charlotteirishsummer festival.com

    Symphony Park at Southpark

  Located behind the Southpark mall is where Movies under the Stars is located.  Every Friday in the month of August at 6pm you can enjoy music and a movie on a 42′ screen. This is free family entertainment at it’s best!  Don’t forget your lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy the show.   Located at 4400 Sharon Rd  Charlotte 28211

Julius Caesar

  Don’t miss the chance to see this political thriller by Collaborative Arts.  Julius Caesar is the second play of  it’s 2009 Shakespere Festival. Located in the McGlohon Theater in Spirit Square (345 N. College Street) Show times are 8/14, 8pm; 8/15, 2pm & 8pm;  8/16, 3pm.  Free!   I went last week with my family and we all really enjoyed this. For more info call 704-625-1288