T.I.M.E. to Give!

This holiday season, T.I.M.E. -Taking Initiative Moving Efficiently- LLC, hosted their first annual clothes and canned food drive.

T.I.M.E. partnered with Nxlevel (NXL21) Charlotte Entertainment, Velocity Sports Performance- Charlotte, Ethan & Zoey, Vision by Nicole, Studio Rush- Charlotte, K Kouture, Harris Teeter, and the UPS Store to clothe and feed over fifty families in Charlotte, NC. “Not only did our mission include raising donations, but we unified various leaders, businesses, and organizational bodies to be a valuable asset in their community– by actively participating,” said Curtis Walls, Co-Founder of T.I.M.E.

Paper bags were donated from several Harris Teeters stores. The bags were delivered by volunteers and partner employees. “We were overwhelmed by the response. The volunteers had a great time. The neighborhoods loaded our vehicles with donations. It was amazing to witness our communities giving back. Some households even purchased brand-new clothes,” said Curtis Walls.

T.I.M.E. was founded by Curtis Walls, Lawrence T. Alli, and Samuel Evans. It is a service-based organization that seeks to unify various leaders, organizational bodies, and communities to be a valuable asset to their community. T.I.M.E. is more than a name and phrase; it is an overall philosophical concept. It represents a mindset, idea, and most importantly, a lifestyle.

All businesses, organizations, and individuals are welcome to join “T.I.M.E. to Give” initiatives in the future. Contact ACJ.TIME@gmail.com for more information.

The 2011 countdown has begun!!! “Experience the Lifestyle” again with NXL21 Charlotte. We have provided an exclusive atmosphere for the well-educated, fashion-forward, media-savvy young professional - QUALITY. On Friday, December 31, 2010, join us at the sexy Lava Bistro & Bar located on the University Lake. #WIN

Purchase your “Early Bird” ticket for $10 immediately- only 50 available online! For those who wish to upgrade your New Year’s Eve experience, be sure to get your “Early Bird” V.I.P. ticket online- limited availability. This special package will include complimentary hors d’oeuvres and champagne toast.

“Early Bird” V.I.P. Tables start at $250. This special package includes complimentary champagne toast, hors d’oeuvres, and bottle service for all of your guests!

***Again, these prices are for a limited time only - DON’T WAIT***

Last year, Forever Young 2009 was a sold-out event! With a new and intimate venue facing the waterfront, we know this year will be indistinguishable.

“Experience the Lifestyle…Quality”

Forever Young 2010: New Years Eve Event

Lava Bistro & Bar

8708 JW Clay Blvd
Charlotte, NC 28262

Friday, December 31, 2010

Doors open @ 10pm

Attire: Stylish & Sophisticated

http://www.foreveryoungnye.eventbrite.com/

Man of Style || The Jeffrey Lee Interview

-By: Chanel Murphy

NXL21 Charlotte engaged in a session of Q&A with the CEO of HTDOGWTR- Jeffrey Lee. This clothing line is fresh and innovative, designed specifically for the “individual.” “My inspiration is to push people to be individuals. You set your tone. Make your own statement. I only make a certain amount of pieces,” said Jeffrey Lee.

NXL21 Charlotte: When did you start your clothing line HTDOGWTR?

Jeffrey Lee: I started my clothing line in 2006.

NXL21 Charlotte: The name of your clothing line is interesting. What’s the story behind the name "HTDOGWTR?"

Jeffrey Lee: When I was younger I grew up around my grandpa and grandma. They used to take us to the park and my grandpa would cook on the grill. He used to give us a hotdog and tell us to go to the water fountain. That’s where the name came from. I was trying to come up with a name for my line and that’s what stuck. People said it was something I couldn't do. There was a challenge within the name itself.

NXL21 Charlotte: What kind of products do you make?

Jeffrey Lee: I started out making women's handbags. But now HTDOGWTR carries hats, shirts, dresses, jeans, eyewear, etc. for men and women- a full line.

NXL21 Charlotte: When did you become interested in creating clothing?

Jeffrey Lee: I’m an only child and grew up with a single parent. My mom used to make my Halloween costumes. I learned how to sew at the age of five.

NXL21 Charlotte: You don’t create clothing based on the seasons -spring/summer and fall/winter- like most fashion designers. How often do you produce new clothing?

Jeffrey Lee: I design in collections and it depends on how I’m feeling at the time. I don’t believe in the ordinary trends of fashion. My clothing is not for the average person. Don’t let the clothes make you. Make the clothes. Fashion is about expression.

NXL21 Charlotte: What fashion trend do you foresee becoming popular soon?

Jeffrey Lee: Raccoon tails and fox tails. People are wearing them on bags, hips, and belt loops. I saw it during New York Fashion Week.

NXL21 Charlotte: What are some setbacks that you have encountered?

Jeffrey Lee: One setback is that I'm doing it by myself. I'm the jack of all trades. Marketing. PR. I have one person who does all the characters and his name is 2E.

NXL21 Charlotte: Have you had any recent initiatives?

Jeffrey Lee: I sponsored the clothing for the whole second season of Fantasia Barrino's show on VH1- Fantasia For Real. Also, we're coming out with Fantasia's tour shirt.

NXL21 Charlotte: Where can customers purchase your clothing?

Jeffrey Lee: They can purchase products online at www.htdogwtr.com or at boutique Boris and Natasha in Charlotte.

NXL21 Charlotte: What is your favorite experience with NXL21 Charlotte?

Jeffrey Lee: The networking event downtown at Aquavina. It was last year.

NXL21 Charlotte: Lastly, do you have any advice for other entrepreneurs?

Jeffrey Lee: Stay focused. Don't give up. Keep pushing. Some things may not go your way but keep pushing.

Be sure to follow Jeffrey Lee on twitter @htdogwtr.

Join NXL21 Charlotte! We are a close-knit team of young professionals seeking to expand our family. We are looking for photographers, models, writers, or anyone who enjoys networking, is dependable, energetic, culturally-diverse, well-rounded, and works well with others.

*Requirements:

-21+

-Full-time Job or In College

*Photographers, models and writers: please be prepared to provide sample work upon request.

Email us your contact information, a brief bio and/or resume at QC@nxlevelent.com.

Driven, talented, and beautiful, Courtnee Mason has graced covers of magazines, television stations, and received the title of Miss Black Charlotte NC USA® 2011. She was also the face of Charlotte, North Carolina’s First Annual Fashion Week, named Charlotte Style Magazine’s 25 Most Stylish, and appeared on Tyler Perry’s House of Payne. “I am constantly competing with myself and driven to become the best at everything I set out to accomplish,” said Courtnee Mason.

Courtnee Mason’s most recent accomplishment was being casted on VH1’s You’re Cut Off!, a reality show about nine privileged “princesses” who are stripped of their luxuries and forced to live life like “normal” people. They went through challenges to learn self-improvement, responsibility, and independency in hopes of graduating the Princess Program. Here is Courtnee Mason’s experience when she found out she was cut off:

Nxlevel Charlotte: Why did you decide to go on VH1’s You’re Cut Off!?

Courtnee Mason: All of the girls, including me, thought that we were going to be on a show called The Good Life…but little did we know! We didn’t find out that we were on a show called You’re Cut Off! until we got to the West coast. Regardless of what the show was called, it was a once in a lifetime opportunity and I would not change it for the world. It was a career move for me. So many others go on reality shows to jumpstart their career; it’s a chance to be seen on a national scale.

Nxlevel Charlotte: How does it feel having cameras tape your every move?

Courtnee Mason: (Laughs) It was weird at first, but I loved it!

Nxlevel Charlotte: Did you have a hard time living on a budget?

Courtnee Mason: It was not hard for me because I have always lived on some sort of budget. When you go grocery shopping with people who have never been, it is. I am from the south and one thing about my parents is that you have to know how to cook, clean, and grocery shop. That is a must in the Mason house. I am not talking about microwave dinners; I am talking about from scratch.

Nxlevel Charlotte: Describe your experience living in a house with all females.

Courtnee Mason: I hated the elementary school arguments. All I kept thinking was, ‘Are you serious or are you doing this for camera time?’ Let’s just say what you saw was real because it was like that when the cameras were on and off. You didn’t get to see the half of it. Just know that Jersey Shore had nothing on the girls in that house. (Laughs)

Nxlevel Charlotte: What was the most difficult part about the show?

Courtnee Mason: Of course living with the eight other females! It was worse than a college dorm room and we had four to five people in a room. Also, dealing with eight over the tippy-top personalities was difficult.

Nxlevel Charlotte: You went through several challenges on the show. What was the most important lesson you learned on You’re Cut Off!?

Courtnee Mason: I have learned to appreciate the little things so much more. I also realized that I need to step it up and give more of my time to those in need. PATH (People Assisting the Homeless) was my favorite challenge on the show.

Nxlevel Charlotte: Has attention from viewers been negative or positive after the show?

Courtnee Mason: The attention from viewers has been more positive than negative. Of course you have a handful of people who base their reality on reality shows; to them I am a spoiled brat. All I can say is- it’s TV!

Nxlevel Charlotte: Has your lifestyle changed or remained the same since being on the show?

Courtnee Mason: It has changed. I am ready to take over the world like Pinky and the Brain. I am ready to lead by example. So many people tell me they admired me for the way I carried myself on the show which is surprising because ratings come from the drama-filled people. It means the world to me that although I was not front and center, I was noticed for my character. I am more driven than ever before!

Nxlevel Charlotte: Is there any advice you would give women in the same situation?

Courtnee Mason: Your habits are a reflection of your insecurities. Your excessive spending or vanity is a cover-up for something deeper that is hindering your progress in life. Dig deep and find out why you do, act, or believe what you do. Know that everything can be taken from you at any given time. Be thankful and if you can afford to give, do so. ‘Do unto others as you would have others do unto you.’

Nxlevel Charlotte: What have you been doing career-wise post-show?

Courtnee Mason: I am a blog writer for Russell Simmons' Global Grind and I have also been getting ready to compete for the title of Miss Black NC USA® 2011. The pageant is this November. There are so many more projects I have been working on but I cannot reveal what they are until they are finalized. For anyone who wants to keep up with my journey, go to www.courtneemason.com and check out my weekly blog posts on www.globalgrind.com.

Nxlevel Charlotte: Last but definitely not least, what was your favorite Nxlevel experience?

Courtnee Mason: GHOE (Greatest Homecoming on Earth) 2009. I love the VIP treatment no matter where I am in North Carolina. Nxlevel takes great care of me!

Be sure to follow Courtnee Mason on Twitter @CourtneeMason.

*Image above from You're Cut Off!

*Above: The Mirror Challenge

Thoughts of a Man: Part 1 || Is HE Listening?

-By Heisman. Walls

Inspired by a true story, this literature articulates the mind of a dreamer.

Aroused by the "possibilities," it became more than a dream. Once it became attainable, the road-most-traveled seemed illogical - why not? With a sincere passion he invested time and energy.

A foundation anchored by a spiritual liaison rooted a presence in his life that was stronger than ever - a divine truth fueled by inevitable experiences and sincere devotion. The audacity of his pursuit was religiously justified. His unworldly influence qualified ALL “possibilities” to be possible - by any man who believed.

With opportunistic goals, sincere faith, and positive intent - the lack of results started to weigh heavier. How could Job* be punished? He knew but did not understand. And as time taunted him, patience lacked. He questioned, not only the process, but overall concept. He questioned, not only the purpose and direction, but his spiritual teachings and understanding - "What if HE (God) doesn't deliver the desires of my heart?"

He goes to church almost every Sunday; he dismisses wreckless lust. He sits, thinks, and occasionally sheds a tear. Invested time, money and faith overwhelmingly takes its toll. He isolates himself away from all of you a day or two - sometimes weeks. In his mother's basement, he prays for enlightenment.

Did he dream too big? Did he make the right decision?

During the day, while driving, he ponders a more realistic journey or dream overlooked - maybe? As he pleads, he needs a divine intervention.

Yearning for instant guidance he can only ask, "Where do I go from here?" ...A few seconds, days, and now weeks later - no answer. Is HE listening?...

Recap || Happy Endings

*Pictures Courtesy of CLTExposed Magazine

We Appreciate You || Happy Endings

We would like to thank everyone who attended Happy Endings at Dharma Lounge! Also, we would like to thank our partners- A 2 Z Entertainment and TV Entertainment. Stay tuned for our upcoming events! You won't want to miss out. Be sure to follow us on twitter for updates and entertainment @Nxl21Charlotte.

A Special Thanks to the Nxlevel Charlotte Team!

What is your ideal happy ending?

“My ideal happy ending would be having a job that I love so much that it does not feel like a job but rather a purpose to fulfill for the rest of my life that helps people and pleases my savior.” - Will Medley

“It’s a time when the body is at complete ease and there’s nothing else you need at that moment; release all your cares into the world.” - Justin Moore

"Winning. #heismanshrug."- Curtis "Heisman" Walls

“Arriving at a state of contentment, where its value extends beyond any monetary amount.”- Christa Newkirk

“My ideal happy ending is to be successful in whatever I do.”- Greg Arnold

“A happy ending to me is when you can look back and be at peace with who you were, proud of whom you’ve become, humbled by your experiences and remembered as an inspiration and servant to others. When you’ve done all you can do to the best of your abilities, your ending can be someone else’s bright and beautiful beginning. That is my happy ending.”- Christina Morrisey

“Pay-day Friday at 4:45 p.m.” - Damu “Carlos” Winston

“Being happy and whatever that entails.” - Chanel Murphy

Your FEEDBACK is wanted. We want to know your ideal happy ending! Feel free to post comments.

_________________________________________

For a guaranteed happy ending:

Spend your Labor Day weekend with NXL21 Charlotte!

NXL21 Charlotte has partnered with A 2 Z Entertainment and TV Entertainment to bring you another PRICELESS event. This Labor Day experience will be held at one of Charlotte's most QUALITY lounges- Dharma. Dharma Lounge includes stylish decor fused with art and an eclectic outdoor patio. Some have witnessed the live atmosphere on Thursday nights. Either way- Sunday, September 5- Dharma Lounge will be EVERYONE'S destination! What will be your HAPPY ENDING?

• Early arrival is a must. Pre-sold tickets will not be sold.
• Attire is stylish and sophisticated. We reserve the right to be selective.
• Clientele: 23+ preferred; 21 and Up
• Doors open at 10:00 p.m.
• Complimentary martinis for ladies until 10:30 p.m.
• $5 Finlandia Vodka and Gentleman Jack

1440 S. Tryon St. Charlotte, NC 28203

Thoughts of a Man : Part 1 || His Humble Grind

-Heisman. Walls

Inspired by a true story, this literature articulates the mind of a dreamer.

He encounters constant ups and downs. Lingering disappointments, impeded progress, and occasional doubt overwhelms his spirit. Thoughts of complacency grow stronger and stronger. Some days a corona of darkness engulfs him. His most desired dreams and aspirations verge on the probability of being mocked as inconceivable - a waste of time.

He remembers the initial epiphany and excitement that filled his ambitions with possibility. Six months later, the reality of the process weighs in on the lack of progress. Fast forward another six months - he continues. Delayed yet hopeful, he never dismisses optimism. Though adversity consistently seems inevitable, his actions are never immobilized. Doubtful influences do not avert his desires and ambitions.

Day by day he embraces the adversity. With a passionate ideology he humbly grinds, never to cease until his “being” is exposed and embraced by the world...

To be continued...

(Series of Short Stories - follow his journey)

Maintain Your Sexy || Velocity Sports Performance

-Chanel Murphy

Exercising for your "ideal" body should not merely be a summertime ritual. Staying physically-fit and working-out should be a lifestyle for optimal health!

Nxlevel Charlotte has partnered with Velocity Sports Performance in order to help you maintain your sexy yearlong.

Velocity Sports Performance is not a regular workout facility. “We have a professionally-certified coaching staff,” said Jed Hartigan, Strength and Conditioning Specialist. Whether you are a professional athlete or just want to become more active, Velocity ensures complete training for all skill levels.

At Velocity, there is a workout for just about everyone. Adult, youth, team, collegiate/professional combine, and one-on-one personal training are the programs offered. The facility includes athletic turf fields, sprint tracks, Olympic-style weightlifting and so much more. Hartigan explained, “We have a large facility so there is no long wait for equipment.”

Training groups are relatively small and intimate in order to “ensure proper technique,” said Hartigan.

Jed Hartigan also offered a few tips for staying physically-fit.

1. “Stay as active as possible. Try to have at least 20-30 minutes of physical activity per day.”

2. “Stay away from sugar products.”

And the easiest tip:

3. “Take the stairs instead of the elevator.”

*Above: Facility

*Above: Waiting Area

When you MENTION NXL21 Charlotte, you will receive a COMPLIMENTARY WORKOUT for an adult class. For more information, go to: www.charlotte.nxlevelent.com/velocityspcharlotte or call 704-588-1770.

A Brotha with Soul || The Harvey Cummings Interview

-By Chanel Murphy

Above: Harvey Cummings

Often described as being a musical genius, Harvey Cummings became interested in music at the age of three. “We had a piano in the house and I would always bang on it. My parents never seemed to mind but I actually got in tune and started to play for real,” explains Harvey.

“I’ve been playing ever since.”

The talented musician attended performing arts schools in his hometown of Charlotte, North Carolina from elementary to high school. He also had many recitals and was able to perform his first written song in the fourth grade concert. “My parents didn’t know what was going on. They were shocked,” says Harvey.

-Nxlevel Charlotte: What other instruments do you play besides the piano?

-Harvey: I play the saxophone. That’s my other main instrument. I can play band instruments also. I sucked at the French horn though.

-Nxlevel Charlotte: Who are your musical influences?

-Harvey: My musical influences are John Coltrane, Duke Ellington, Herbie Hancock, Nas, Jay-Z, and the Roots. Also, Thlonious Monk. He’s a pianist from Rocky Mount. I like Monk because he plays outside the box.

-Nxlevel Charlotte: What inspires your music?

-Harvey: Whatever I’m feeling at the time- good or bad.

-Nxlevel Charlotte: What genre does your music fall under?

-Harvey: Hip-hop jazz.

-Nxlevel Charlotte: The rumor out there is that you may be performing with Hootie and the Blowfish.

-Harvey: That’s true. I’m opening up in September for Hootie. It’s a blessing! It opens up another audience for our music.

-Nxlevel Charlotte: Congrats. What other bands have you worked with?

-Harvey: The band I’m apart of is Beatnam and the Vets. We formed this band back in college. But I’ve worked with other bands including Peace and Love, The Company Band, and Betty Pride and the BP Ride Blues Band. I was also one of the featured pianists on the Boondocks- the second season. I got a call from 9th Wonder asking to play the background music for the show. It opened a lot of doors.

-Nxlevel Charlotte: Where is one of your favorite places to perform?

-Harvey: My favorite place to perform is a restaurant in the South Park area in Charlotte called Café Monte. It’s a nice French-inspired restaurant. The food is bangin'. The people love the music. I also play every Friday at Sadie’s Soul Food. Their food is great. They won the Steve Harvey Hoodie Award.

-Nxlevel Charlotte: So when did you become involved with Nxlevel Charlotte?

-Harvey: Well, I’ve always been a fan of Nxlevel. I used to go to the parties in Greensboro, North Carolina. My first party was the Black Party in 2008 for my 25th birthday. I got involved in Nxlevel Charlotte when I received a phone call about bands performing for the New Year’s party.

-Nxlevel Charlotte: How do you feel about the presence of jazz in Charlotte?

-Harvey: I’m interested in bringing jazz to Charlotte, especially to our audience- young black professionals. There’s not really a niche for pure jazz in Charlotte. I’m not really fond of the music people are hearing.

-Nxlevel Charlotte: Do you have any advice for other upcoming artists?

-Harvey: My advice is to stay true to yourself. Don’t play what other people want you to. In music, we’re losing individuality. Be creative. Be an individual. Make your music remembered. Standout. I feel like my gimmick is real music.

-Nxlevel Charlotte: Is there anyone you would like to acknowledge that helped you in this musical journey?

-Harvey: I’d like to thank God. My family. My father- rest-in-peace. My friends. My girlfriend who is my biggest supporter and my manager. She keeps me grounded. I would also like to thank Nxlevel Charlotte for putting this interview together. I’d like to thank the people.

Be sure to follow Harvey Cummings on Twitter @brothawitsoul.

*Above: Harvey Cummings playing at a nearby music store.

Inspiration from the Runway for Summer 2010

Summer is here and it is time to enhance your wardrobe. Stores everywhere have taken inspiration from the runway which makes it easy to find fashionable pieces in every price range.

The runway has been flooded with bold colors, prints and patterns. Betsey Johnson’s spring/summer 2010 line was filled with neon colored leopard print which is reminiscent of Rihanna’s Rude Boy video. Oranges, hot pinks, lime greens, and yellows are staple colors for this upcoming season. *Photograph: Solange Knowles in Betsey Johnson. Source: Essence

Jumpsuits and rompers are a recurring trend for summer 2010. They are comfortable and easy to dress down for day or dress up for night. This year, jumpsuits are loose-fitting and flattering for all body types. Jumpsuits look great in solid colors such as black or white but are amazing in a wild print.

Surprisingly, red is also a great color for this season. Many designers introduced a splash of red in their lines for spring/summer 2010. All-red blazers, skirts, dresses or handbags are an excellent addition to fashionista’s wardrobe. Zac Posen has designed a beautiful lightweight red leather jacket for Target. You can throw it on with a dress on a cool summer’s night.

Bib necklaces have definitely made their presence on the runway for spring/summer 2010. These bold pieces can be worn with a plain shirt and jeans or a simple dress. Wear small studs or no earrings at all with your bib necklace. Affordable bib necklaces can be found at local stores such as Forever 21, Bebe, or Anthropologie.

- Chanel Murphy

We Appreciate You

We would like to thank you for your support during the So Far Gone...You'll Thank Us Later Memorial Day weekend events. Our turnout for the pool party and night event was amazing. The feedback was extremely positive! Stay tuned for our upcoming party- the 2nd Annual Summer's Lust event. Details will be disclosed at a later date. It's going to be CRAZY. Be sure to follow us on twitter @nxl21charlotte for updates. Isn't it time you experienced the NXLEVEL of entertainment?

So Far Gone...You'll Thank Us Later || Recap

Above: So Far Gone...You'll Thank Us Later Memorial Day Weekend Event

Welcome

Welcome to official blog of NXL21 Charlotte. We aim to inspire, inform, and entertain the well-educated, fashion-forward, and media-savvy young professional. Let us be your source for the current trends in fashion, music, art, dining, and our upcoming events in the metropolitan city of Charlotte.

We would like to give a shout out and big thanks to our partners and sponsors: Style Minute, Velocity Sports Performance, Vision Interior Design, comedian Darren Brand, ArtOfficial Intelligence, and artist/producer Jason "JetPlane" Jones. Be sure to check out their links on the right-hand side. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to contact us via email:

Curtis "Heisman" Walls and Damu "Carlos" Winston -Associate Directors:

• curtis@nxlevelent.com
• damu@nxlevelent.com

Chanel Murphy -Web Editor:

• chanelpmurphy@gmail.com