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Event Calendar
Previous Events
Click here to view upcoming events
May 16, 2012
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM One of the newcomers to MBC, William McKee is the founding partner of the Web agency, Knowmad. A Charlotte native, he is a graduate of UNC Chapel Hill by way of a brief stint at NC State.
William started the company in Charlotte in 2002 after spending many years traveling and freelancing around the world. His passion for helping people understand and effectively use technology has guided him through several evolutions of the company over the years, including taking on his business partner, Diona Kidd, in 2006. William and his wife, Elizabeth, live in the Chantilly neighborhood with their dog, Noli. As the executive director of Leadership Charlotte, Elizabeth is an active member of the community. When not in front of a computer, William enjoys travel and being outdoors. A long-time student of yoga, he practices & teaches at 8th Street Studio in Elizabeth. William will be discussing the following:
June 6, 2012
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Joe Don, has been with Southeastern Freight Lines since 1989 and spent 19 of those years in operations (12 as a Regional Vice President of Operations) before switching to Regional Vice President of Sales 4 years ago.
Joe Don and his wife, Robin, live in Fort Mill with their two kids (Lawson and Harper). When not at work, he enjoys Tae Kwando, being an assistant soccer coach and studying anything that he can about business.
He will be discussing the following
June 20, 2012
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Come experience "Speed Networking" at its finest! As a member of MBC, we want you to know other members you might have only briefly interacted with. Here is the perfect method of learning a little bit more about the people you see twice a month! You will spend 3-5 minutes with each table group discussing your company - then rotate. In order to both receive and provide the best possible experience for everyone, please come with answers to the following questions about you and your company (Remember, this will be "speedy" so be able to answer the questions in 3-5 minutes): What does your company do? Who is your target market (what do you consider an ideal client)? What is a good referral to you? What are your goals as a member of MBC?
July 18, 2012
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Get to know Gary Hixson of Hixson Design.
To begin with
Gary was born as a small child, a fact for which his mother was
most grateful. He was an early transplant from Winston-Salem,
relocating to Charlotte when Belk’s and Ivey’s ruled retail from
downtown (not “Uptown”) Charlotte, and cows grazed the fields
now known as Southpark.
He escaped the Charlotte Mecklenburg School system through
an unguarded door at Garinger High in 1968. He hid out in
Richmond for four years disguised as a hippie while attending
the design program at VCU from which graduated in 1972, with
a major in Communication Art & Design.
He returned to Charlotte that summer and began looking for
a job. He’s been looking ever since, although not that hard.
To fill the time, for the last 40 years, he’s been designing lots
of interesting stuff for a bunch of different people (some in
the MBC), from company brands to hot air balloons.
He’s the proud son of a Tennessee farm boy and a real life
coal miner’s daughter. His name, Gary, means “spear thrower”
and he’s always trying to hit the target.
August 1, 2012
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM PRESENTATION LINK: http://www.charlottembc.com/uploads/MBCBeanstalkData.pdf
Scott Nowokunski is President of Boingo Graphics - a really cool printing company that provides commercial printing, digital printing, mailing and fulfillment to marketing companies or marketing departments within larger organizations and CEO of Beanstalk-a software platform built to help friends engage their customers. He attended Appalachian State and received a degree in Print Production Management. Scott has been married to Kelly for 14+ years, and they have three boys - Jake (13), Adam (11) and Cody (8), and two dogs (Ollie and Abby). When he's not at work, he spends time with the family, and is very active in his church's Cub Scout Pack and Boy Scout Troop. Furthermore, Scott keeps up with the Panthers and Tar Heel Basketball. He finds the most rewarding aspect of his job to be the enjoyment of building things and developing strategies for attacking the market. Growing up as a self-described chess playing "Legomaniac," Scott loves using all the tools of Boingo Graphics and Beanstalk Data to help clients implement truly innovative marketing campaigns.
August 15, 2012
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Get to know new members: Angie Mattson, Craig Dunn and Ken Andujar
About Craig Dunn:
Craig Alan Dunn was born in Erwin, NC and relocated to Charlotte 1968. He graduated from Appalachian State University with a 2 ½ year stint at The Citadel. Craig started his business in 2000 with his childhood friend from 2nd grade, with a $150 investment each – from which they built from the business from the ground up. The business was said to have had its best year ever last year (by 25% gross revenue) and also employs 12 people. Craig currently attends Forest Hill Church and is headed to Senegal Africa in Nov. on mission trip. Craig also volunteers at Hoskins Park Ministry Homeless Shelter.
About Angie Mattson:
Angie Mattson is Chief Efficiency Officer with Your Organized Guide. Angie's goal in business is to help bring sanity back into the workday for overwhelmed business owners and executives. Her superpower is her ability to organize anything - paper, people, places, or processes. Weekends are work-free zones filled with kayaking, camping, traveling or gardening with her boyfriend Nelson and their two rambunctious labs, Marley and Rex.
About Ken Andujar:
Introducing Ken Andujar of Andujar construction. Andujar Construction specializes in Commercial Construction Services and has been servicing North and South Carolina since 1994. Get to know the man behind the name, his hobbies, family life and accomplishments.
September 5, 2012
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM
Topic: “To Breathe or Not to Breathe: The Hidden Power of HVAC to Change the Way You Feel” Mark your calendars now to attend this September 5th meeting.
September 19, 2012
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Born in Chicago in 1947, John Galles was raised in the Midwest and attended Indiana University where he received a degree in Business Administration. He graduated in 1969 and pursued a career in association management. He is married and has one son.
For over twenty-five years, he served the non-profit business community with the Michigan Association of Realtors, the Small Business Association of Michigan, and National Small Business Association.
In 1997, he worked with the national Welfare to Work Partnership and was responsible for recruiting over 10,000 businesses to the initiative. In the fall of 1999 John started the Greater Charlotte Biz magazine in Charlotte in the fall of 1999. His business-to-business magazine reaches over 100,000 business decision-makers each month.
October 3, 2012
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM
Charlotte Rescue Mission is a ministry that provides residential substance abuse services to men and women. The Mission provides free services to the homeless or almost homeless but anyone can enter the program that needs help for themselves. There are 2 campuses – the men’s campus is located in Third Ward, near the Bank of America Stadium and has 140 beds. MBC has met at the men’s campus several times. The new women and children’s campus is located at: 2855 WEST BLVD, CHARLOTTE NC 28208. There are currently
15 residents. The Charlotte Rescue Mission will be adding 5 women a month and will begin serving children in November. The MBC event will take place at Dove's Nest: 2855 West Blvd. You will be greeted and directed to the Resident's Dining Room.
October 17, 2012
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Ralph Dougherty has been involved in the practice of patent, trademark, and copyright law for over 35 years. He earned the professional degree of Metallurgical Engineer from Colorado School of Mines, in Golden, Colorado, and a law degree from Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Ralph concentrates on patent matters concerning metallurgical, chemical, mechanical and related technologies. He has handled patent matters in more than 80 countries and trademark matters in more than 20 countries. He has been a member of Midweek Business Connections for more than 20 years. He is currently Acting President of Parkview Community Foundation, an after-school program for at-risk children in northwest Charlotte, and is Vice President of the Charlotte Optimist Club. He is a member of the bars of Pennsylvania, North Carolina, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Supreme Court, and the US District Courts for the Western District of Pennsylvania, Eastern, Middle, and Western Districts of North Carolina, and Western District of Wisconsin, and is registered to practice before both the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and the Canadian Patent Office. Ralph also holds active memberships with AIPLA, Carolinas Patent Trademark and Copyright Law Association, Pittsburgh Intellectual Property Law Association, Mecklenburg County Bar Association, and Metrolina Entrepreneurial Council.
November 7, 2012
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM
The Light Factory has always been an “early innovator” of technology from its modest beginnings as a photographers’ cooperative in 1972. Starting in 2003, The Light Factory jumped on the bandwagon of sending out regular email newsletters. Today The Light Factory is “locked and loaded” with 10,000 email addresses, 7,600 views on YouTube, 4,700 Facebook fans and 1,300 followers on Twitter. But what makes social media work or not work for The Light Factory or any other company? Why is it so daunting? You may find yourself asking, “Why should I company embrace social media if I can’t control the message? What do I do if someone posts something negative? There’s a new widget every month… how can I keep track of multiple networks? And what exactly is a widget?”
Dee Grano is currently the Director of Marketing and Special Events for The Light Factory Contemporary Museum of Photography and Film, and “curates” most of The Light Factory’s social media content. Before Dee was a Marketing Director, she was a television news producer writing stories, booking interviews and managing breaking news at WBRZ Channel Two, the ABC affiliate in her hometown of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. From her humble beginnings in broadcast journalism, she went on to start the Public Relations wing of The Graham Group, the second largest advertising agency in Louisiana. She moved to Charlotte in 2004 and joined the Marketing team at Discovery Place and began volunteering with The Light Factory. She was hired on full-time in 2006 and has been there ever since. She is a freelance writer covering arts and culture for the South Charlotte Weekly. Dee enjoys watching LSU games with her husband, Dan, and two-year old son, Anthony. Geaux (pronounced “go”) Tigers.
November 21, 2012
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM PRESENTATION LINK
Ann Clausen is a CPA with Daniel, Ratliff and Company. As one of the firm's owners, she manages the tax department and is Vice President of Marketing. She has extensive business and tax experience in numerous fields including non-profits, manufacturing, retail, construction, service organization and academic teaching. In her role with the firm, she works with individuals, businesses and non-profits to help them understand the tax law and take full advantage of tax deductions and credits. As a former college professor, Ann enjoys speaking to groups to educate others on tax law and strategies. She is a graduate of Averett University located in Danville, VA and attended the Radford University College of Business and Economics in Radford, VA. She currently lives in Matthews, NC with her husband, children and a 95 pound Golden Retriever.
December 5, 2012
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM
Steve Kaplan was born in Brooklyn, New York and moved to Greensboro, NC when he was 9 years old. Steve grew up in Greensboro and went to UNC-Chapel Hill. In 1995 he opened the Relax the Back Store in Charlotte. With Relax the Back, he was elected to the Franchisee Advisory Board and also became a member of the Merchandising Committee representing the franchisees point of view for products carried and developed for the entire Relax the Back system. Married to his wife Laura, they have two children and three grand children.
December 6, 2012
, 6:30 AM - 10:30 PM
You and your guest are cordially invited to attend the
2012 Annual MBC Holiday Party
This annual event is the ideal opportunity to get to know your fellow members and their families in a more intimate setting. Join us at MBC Member, Marc Mataya's home while enjoying cocktails and an amazing catered buffet by Byron's catering company. Dress is business casual. If you are a new member, you definitely don't want to miss this event! Thursday, December 6th, 2012 6:30pm-10:30pm Where: Marc Mataya's Home - 2215 Hassell Place, 28209 For Google Map Directions click here.
December 19, 2012
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM
We hope to see everyone for our Annual Champagne Breakfast on Wednesday November 19th. At this meeting we will have a deluxe breakfast catered by Byron’s with Champagne and Orange Juice. It has been a tremendous year of accomplishments, great membership and wonderful connections. We will be toasting the New Year, giving recognition of those who have served as our MBC Board Members, presenting our traditional Donald Haack Award to a member and we will also be announcing and welcoming the new MBC Board for 2013. This event is a great opportunity to give recognition where it is due and also preview upcoming events at MBC.
January 2, 2013
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Jeffrey is the author of The New York Times best sellers: The Sales Bible, The Little Red Book of Selling, The Little Black Book of Connections, and The Little Gold Book of YES! Attitude. All of his books have been number one best sellers on Amazon.com and have sold millions of copies worldwide. Jeffrey has given more than 100 presentations a year as well as given a variety of award winning online sales presentations in which the content is pure, Jeffrey – fun, pragmatic, real world – and can be immediately implemented. In 2008, Jeffrey was elected by his peers to the National Speaker Association’s Speaker Hall of Fame. The designation, CPAE (Counsel of Peers Award for Excellence), honors professional speakers who have reached the top echelon of performance excellence.
MBC is pleased to welcome him as he will be speaking on the following topics: • The difference between a goal and an intention • The lost secret of goal achievement • New year’s resolutions and other fantasies
January 16, 2013
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Angie Mattson is Chief Efficiency Officer with Your Organized Guide, Inc. and is an author, speaker, and small business process and organization expert. Angie works with small business owners, showing them how to streamline their workflow to get out of overwhelm, focus, and make more money. Her superpower is turning chaos into order.
Title: Ten Common Ways We Fail to Manage Out Time and Priorities
Talking points:
In a busy, over-connected world, it can feel impossible to manage your time and decide your priorities when everything seems important. In this brief presentation to MBC members, Angie Mattson will cover the ten common ways we fail to manage our time and priorities. This can lead to feelings of frustration and overwhelm which further decreases our ability to get anything meaningful done.
February 6, 2013
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM David Drummond is from Charlotte and went to Providence Day School. After that he attended Clemson University and received a BS in Industrial Management. He is married to his beautiful wife Nancy. They have two kids; Jere (pronounced Jerry and named for his dad) is soon to be 13 and Caroline is 9 years old. Both are at Charlotte Christian. From Clemson he took a job with Livingston and Haven, an industrial distributor whom he had worked part time since high school. David worked with Livingston and Haven for the next seventeen years doing almost every job in the building. In 1998, he took his first management role with Livingston and Haven, got married and entered into a partnership that bought Carolina Sporting Arms. His partner ran the business at Carolina Sporting Arms while he kept his job at Livingston and Haven.
In 2008 David, left L & H to become more active in Carolina sporting Arms. He took over the day to day operations in 2009 and bought his partner out in 2010.
David is an avid shooter and has traveled to South America numerous times in search of the ultimate bird hunt. He enjoys playing an occasional round of golf and moonlights as a commercial pilot flying a Cirrus aircraft.
In his presentation, David will be talking about
· A Brief history of himself and Carolina Sporting Arms
· What Carolina Sporting Arms was doing well and not so well
· Key changes he has made to the business
· His and his decision to add an indoor shooting and training facility to their business
·
February 20, 2013
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM PRESENTATION LINKS:
Website Wizard: http://www.WebsiteWizard.us
Cost: $10 per month Domian names: Register with GoDaddy at about $10 per YEAR. You can point unlimited domain names to the same website.
Join us for a demonstration of technology solutions from Straightline Processing who does national merchant processing. Marc Mataya will do a live demonstration of his website template administration system called WebsiteWizard.us that runs our very own CharlotteMBC.com website! This template system was designed with the goal of providing customers the ability to easily create and maintain their own content. The problem that it fixes is that people want full control of their own content and they don't want to be held hostage to their website developer's schedule or their expensive billable hours.
Marc Mataya, originally from Pittsburgh, PA, moved jobless to Charlotte in July of 1993 to seek a career in technology in the financial services world. At that time, Charlotte was the 4rd largest banking industry in the country, so the city was a perfect fit for his degrees at The Ohio State University in Finance and Computer Information Science.
Marc worked as a software developer for First Union (Wells Fargo) and Bank of America for about 7 years before breaking out and forming his own programming consulting business back in 2000. With the combination of his financial skills, business operations knowledge and website development experiences, Marc then began his credit card processing company called Straightline Processing a few years later.
Although Marc can do merchant processing for any type of business, his niche in the credit card industry is providing web-based technologies for taking online payments. Marc is a direct reseller for Visa, Mastercard & Discover and competes with national banks and can process any size of merchant. Marc’s largest volume merchant used to be MBC’s own Salvin Dental, and is now the US National Whitewater Center and the national franchise Mosquito Squad.
Marc comes from a background of entrepreneurial parents who owned and operated several Hair Salon Spas in Pittsburgh. His mother was an award-winning color specialist and has been in the hair industry her entire life. The financial salon management experience had led his father to develop a software application back in 1985 which ultimately formed a national hair salon software company that is still going strong today and services thousands of salons in the US and Canada.
Marc has a daughter named Lindsay who is a second-grader at Selwyn Elementary.
His mantra is that “Luck is when preparation meets opportunity!”
March 6, 2013
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Frank Spencer brings an extraordinary perspective to leadership. An outstanding scholar, teacher, author, entrepreneur and speaker, Frank guides organizations of all types in synthesizing strategy, values and implementation. He has applied his unique talents in fields as diverse as finance, real estate, affordable housing, Christian conferencing, public policy, education, mergers and acquisitions. As President and then CEO, he led Cogdell Spencer Inc. to national prominence in healthcare real estate, culminating in an Initial Public Offering on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). Frank has now turned his efforts to the new role of CEO of Habitat for Humanity Charlotte.
March 20, 2013
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Frank Scibelli can credit his restaurants’ success with a love of authentic cuisine and family traditions. The Springfield, MA native grew up in a big Italian family where there was always something delicious cooking in his mother’s kitchen and it was tradition to have large family dinners.
After a career in consulting, Scibelli found himself in Charlotte, NC with memories of his mother’s kitchen inspiring him to form a career in the food business and open his first restaurant, Mama Ricotta’s. Since opening in 1992, the restaurant has quadrupled in size and has become one of the most well-known Italian restaurants in the region. The success of Mama Ricotta’s led Scibelli to eventually expand his restaurant empire to include Plate Perfect Catering, Cantina 1511 and Big Daddy’s Burger Bar and Paco’s Tacos & Tequila all Charlotte favorites.
April 3, 2013
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Presentation Link:
Creating a Web presence has never been easier. Creating an effective website that brings qualified leads
to your sales team has never been harder. William McKee, founding partner of Knowmad, will share tips and examples of how his digital marketing agency helps clients use the Web to drive sales. From SEO to pay-per-click to email newsletters to social media, Internet Marketing can be perplexing when you're also trying to run a business. At the end of the day, the highest value of a corporate website is the number of qualified sales leads you've received. Get practical advice on ways to increase your traffic, get more leads and grow your business. Topics include: · The state of Internet Marketing in 2013 · Client case study · Introduction to Inbound Marketing On a personal note, William and his wife, Elizabeth, live in the Chantilly neighborhood with their dogs, Mac and Noli. As the executive director of Leadership Charlotte, Elizabeth is an active member of the community. When not in front of a computer, William enjoys travel and being outdoors. A long-time student of yoga, he practices & teaches at 8th Street Studio in Elizabeth.
April 17, 2013
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Patrick D. Cannon, a native Charlottean, was first elected to a Charlotte City Council district seat (District 3), in 1993 at the age of twenty-six, becoming the youngest person elected to a City office. He was then elected citywide in 2001 as an At-large member of the City Council where he serves as Mayor Pro Tem. Cannon has been appointed Mayor Pro Tem each of the four terms he has served in an At-large capacity. He is now serving his eighth term in office, making him the longest serving member of the board.
He chairs the Community Safety committee, vice-chairs the Economic Development committee and is a member of the Governmental Affairs committee.
Cannon is a small business owner, operating and managing a parking management firm he founded in 1998, He is also a managing partner for a business development and reduced energy lighting distribution firm and a regional community affairs radio talk show host on “105.3” FM. He and his wife, Trenna, have a daughter and a son.
May 1, 2013
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Ira Bass, President of IB Media LLC (www.IBMedia.biz) is Your Virtual Media Director & LinkedIn Guy. He has used the power of LinkedIn to start and grow his business (www.LinkedIn.com/in/IBMedia). Today, he has conducted LinkedIn workshops for companies including Richard Petty Motorsports and ATCOM, associations including the Union County Chamber of Commerce and groups such as the Financial Executive Networking Group and Village of Lake Park on how LinkedIn can assist in effectively reaching their business goals. He and his partner Linda Bass are available to conduct a workshop for you and your organization. Ira will be speaking about:
May 15, 2013
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Come experience "Speed Networking" at its finest! As a member of MBC, we want you to know other members you might have only briefly interacted with. We will be issuing table assignments as you sign in. Here is the perfect method of learning a little bit more about the people you see twice a month! You will spend 10-15 minutes with each table group discussing your company - then rotate. In order to both receive and provide the best possible experience for everyone, please come with answers to the following questions about you and your company: What does your company do? Who is your target market (what do you consider an ideal client)? What is a good referral to you? What are your goals as a member of MBC?
June 5, 2013
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM John Cantrell was a paper boy at age 10 for 6 years (Charlotte Leader) John will be speaking about: All things insurance(except medical) What's happening in each sector of the insurance world? Personal Insurance Life, Disability, Annuities Commercial Insurance - work comp, liability and business insurance Where he hopes to be going
June 19, 2013
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM After earning a degree in Speech Communications, and a reputation as one of the Atlantic Coast Conference’s toughest offensive lineman, Andy graduated from the University of North Carolina in 1992.
He spent the next four years as a record-setting salesman and sales manager in the Charlotte branch of Atcom Business Telephone Systems before founding Tegra Telephone Systems in 1996. Within eight months of starting Tegra from scratch, the company attained President's Club honors from Comdial Corporation. Over the next three years, Tegra was consistently among the top five Comdial Dealers in overall sales volume; and Andy earned a reputation as one of the best sales and marketing minds in the telecommunications industry.
In 1999, Andy was named one of Charlotte's 40 under 40 - a list of up-and-coming business stars. Andy achieved this honor while under the age of 30! Seeking the next challenge, Andy sold Tegra and began a career as a professional speaker and sales trainer, while at the same time helping world-renown speaker Jeffrey Gitomer launch a web-based sales training company, TrainOne. In addition to speaking, Andy has been a partner in several other business ventures, and is currently the owner of THE SEALS and is commercial real estate broker with Coldwell Banker Commercial MECA.
He will be speaking about his use of cloud-computing to build his newest business venture & the importance of having a positive attitude.
June 21, 2013
, 6:30 PM - 11:30 PM Join us for our semi-annual summer social event for MBC. Members and their guests are invited to join us for a fun night of food and games at our 5th Casino Night! This event is an evening to benefit the Donald Haack Community Involvement Award.
Ticket options are as follows:
Individual Tickets are $55 per ticket and includes gaming chips, two drink tickets and Hors d'oeuvres catered by Byron's Group Tickets allow a total of 8 people to attend the event under one reservation. Buy eight tickets at $400 and save 10% over the individual ticket price. You won't want to miss this event with great games including Craps, BlackJack, Roulette, and much more. Win great prizes and the opportunity to mix and mingle with MBC Members, friends, family and pillars of our business community. To buy tickets online, go to http://MBC.TicketsSoEasy.com
July 3, 2013
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM There is NO meeting on July 3rd. Have a happy and safe July 4th Holiday! See you on the 17th.
July 17, 2013
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Come experience "Speed Networking" at its finest! As a member of MBC, we want you to know other members you might have only briefly interacted with. We will be issuing table assignments as you sign in. Here is the perfect method of learning a little bit more about the people you see twice a month! You will spend 10-15 minutes with each table group discussing your company - then rotate. In order to both receive and provide the best possible experience for everyone, please come with answers to the following questions about you and your company: What does your company do? Who is your target market (what do you consider an ideal client)? What is a good referral to you? What are your goals as a member of MBC?
August 7, 2013
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Originally from the Caribbean island of Antigua, James La Barrie has built a reputation as an outstanding marketer and champion of customer service.
The son of hoteliers who ran a 5 star French restaurant, James saw first hand that to treat people well is to gain loyalty from customers. Having spent nine years as the General Manager of Skydive Carolina, James has a proven track record for success in business. While at Skydive Carolina, James oversaw increased revenues between 15%-30% for nine consecutive years based around his marketing approach of leveraging his customers to become
the company's marketing team utilizing word-of-mouth and social media strategies.
"It's not our job to please the customer ... it's our job to amaze them!" is the cornerstone of James' approach. With today's technology, every customer with Internet access has the power to impact a company's image in just a few seconds. On these principles, James launched Beyond Marketing (amazethecustomer.com) in January of 2013 and is a contributing 'BizXpert' writer for Greater Charlotte Biz Magazine.
TOPIC: Customer Service is Your Best Marketing Plan
This presentation will provide the following takeaways:
- A better understanding of how to implement customer service marketing into a social media marketing campaign. - Ideas of how to deliberately spread word of mouth marketing. - Answer the financial ramifications of implementing extreme customer service. - A better understanding of how culture and word of mouth marketing can effect sales.
August 21, 2013
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM After serving in the Navy, and owning a successful construction company, William Wilson’s life was forever changed when a client complimented him on his style and requested his assistance in organizing his wardrobe. Armed with a unique understanding of branding, in 2008, William created William Wilson Clothing. Listening to friends in the NFL and NBA, he developed a lifestyle brand built on three core focal points: Success- Power- Exclusivity.
Since then, he has designed looks for the Grammys, the OSCARS, and the Emmy Awards, Charlotte Motor Speedway, over 60 NFL players and actor/ comedian DL Hughley. William has been on the cover of two magazines and has been featured in dozens of others. Understanding that success is more about giving back than taking in, he founded the William Wilson Foundation, and hosts Charlotte’s most exclusive charity event, The William Wilson Celebrity Invitational, which raises money to fight Domestic Violence, and is attended by professional athletes and celebrities from all over the country.
Take Aways
September 4, 2013
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Chris Halligan is an experienced and successful technology executive and entrepreneur. In addition to serving IDEA Fund (a venture capital firm from Durham, NC) as an operating partner, he serves as an advisor to several startups, including GetFeedback (San Francisco), OpenLabs (Austin) and MindsMesh (Charlotte). Chris is the current President of Charlotte Regional Technology Executives, a networking and educational forum for tech execs in the Queen City. Chris co-founded OtherScreen with Jigsaw co-founder Garth Moulton in 2011. Prior to OtherScreen, Chris served as CEO for a publicly traded gaming firm, co-founded Kieden (which was acquired by Salesforce in 2006) and ran North America for WebMethods. Chris spent the 90’s working for Dell during which time he was Salesman of the Year and eventually had responsibility for over $2B in online revenues. Chris is a graduate of the University of Arizona and he and his family live in Charlotte, NC
Title of Talk : What I Learned When OtherScreen Failed
September 18, 2013
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM J. Mark Smith is Founder and President of CGIN. Mark, a North Carolina native, began professionally with a local Charlotte Landscape Company in 1981 where he worked 16 years and was a 5% minority share Owner at the time he left to start his own Landscape Company in 1997 – Environmental Design Landscape, Inc. (EDL).
Mark has experience in all aspects of Landscape Maintenance services as well as Commercial Landscape Construction services. He applies his experience with continuing education to keep up with all the new industry standards and products, offering his customers top quality services. Mark is a member of Entrepreneur Organization (EO), a Certified Landscape Professional (CLP) and a Certified Plant Professional (CPP). His professional associations include Planet, Associated Landscape Contractors of America (ALCA), and board member of the Greater Charlotte Apartment Association. His past professional associations include past President Carolina Grounds Management, past board member of Central Piedmont Community College Advisory Board, and a past board member Charlotte Chapter Entrepreneur’s Organization (EO). He holds a Landscape Contractor’s License, an Irrigation Contractor’s License and a Commercial General Contractor’s License. Articles in the Charlotte Business Journal and Greater Charlotte Biz magazine have been published detailing his GREEN models which are currently being implemented by EDL in servicing its clients. He is also the author of “Design With the End in Mind” published in May 2010 detailing his vision for the future of landscaping the GREEN industry through his E-Design™ Model.
October 2, 2013
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM A new twist to the MBC Breakfast Meeting that is sure to be fun and informative. The first hour will be networking, coffee, mingling and announcements. At 8am, every member in attendance will have the opportunity to give a 15-30 second elevator speech highlighting their company, goals and objectives and what they would like to gain from the group as well as any information that allows members to get to know you better. A list of sample questions will be provided. Byron’s will be setup with bar table tops and special horsdevours style breakfast foods at stations around the room. We look forward to a well-attended event.
October 16, 2013
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Debby Millhouse is the Owner and President of CEO Inc. Founded in Charlotte, NC in 1994, CEO Inc. is a full service recruiting firm providing direct hire placement, temp staffing and human capital services for clients nationwide. Ms. Millhouse has been honored as one of the Top 50 Most Influential Women by The Mecklenburg Times, inducted into the Business Leader Hall of Fame as one of the top entrepreneurs in the Charlotte area, and given the Women in Business Achievement Award winner by the Charlotte Business Journal. CEO Inc. has also been honored with the Charlotte Ethics in Business Award, Charlotte Best Places to Work Award, and recognized as one of the top 50 diversity-owned businesses in the state of North Carolina. In 2013 CEO Inc. was recognized as one of the Fastest-Growing U.S. Staffing Firms by Staffing Industry Analysts.
Presentation Topic: “Power Networking – Make connections that matter”
It takes a lot more than a stack of business cards to become a “Power Networker.” Debby Millhouse will share the secrets to engaging people and leaving a lasting impression through proper and skillful networking techniques. Using visualization and audience participation, Debby breaks down the networking process into easy steps that leave everyone in attendance feeling empowered, confident and excited about their next networking opportunity.
November 6, 2013
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Jack attended high school in Charlotte, NC and graduated from Duke University in 1961. He received a bachelor’s degree in Botany with graduate work in Forestry. Jack began his career working with Bartlett Tree Company in Rockville, Maryland and later was sales manager for the office in Charlotte, NC. Jack has spent several years in Turkey while in the military, took discharge overseas and hitchhiked around Europe. In total, Jack has hitchhiked over 15,000 miles. In addition to racing sailboats of various classes for over 30 years, mostly with his wife and daughter he has also represented the South East in the Prince of Wales Championships in San Diego. This was match racing much like what was raced in the America's Cup a few months ago, but the boats could do about ten knots and not 40. Jack is one of MBC most seasoned members having joined MBC a week after it was established. Jack was in the Tree Maintenance and Landscape business for 42 years until he retired in 2007. Since that time he has he has been wondering what the world will be like when his grandson is an adult in 2050. His topic for the November 6th Meeting is: Water Issues Around the World understanding how it might affect your business.
November 20, 2013
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM A native of Charlotte, Robert Pressley graduated from East Carolina University. He is a licensed real estate broker in North, South Carolina and Georgia and holds the distinguished CCIM designation. After a brief career in the environmental industry, in 1992 he joined his family’s real estate business, MECA Properties, and is the third generation of Pressley’s to be affiliated with that firm.
Rob is President of Coldwell Banker Commercial MECA. In addition to his corporate responsibilities, he is very active in the brokerage and development of real estate. During his career as a practicing broker Rob has completed hundreds transactions in the areas of land, investment, retail, office and industrial real estate. His clients include banks, small and large corporate entities, investors, developers, non-profits and various governmental entities.
He is a past recipient of Charlotte’s 40 under 40 Award.
Rob currently is a Member of the Belmont, NC Planning and Zoning Board.
Rob will be speaking to MBC about the fall and resurrection of the US real estate market over the last five years.
December 4, 2013
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Thinking Out Of The Box For 2014
Specific Strategies For The Evolving Business Environment Every business and its customers go through an evolving cycle of innovation, maturity and obsolescence. Some, but not all, re-innovate and continue to prosper. The trick is to know when stagnation begins to come into play, how to bring innovation back into the picture, who you need on your team, how customer relationships change and how to reinvigorate them, and how to reinvent yourself and your business. Bob will identify cycles that all of us have, and present practical concepts, practices and ideas on how to have these cycles favor our success. About Bob Salvin Bob Salvin is the founder and CEO of Salvin Dental Specialties, Inc, a Charlotte, NC based manufacturer of surgical instrumentation and biomaterials for implant dentistry. Starting from the trunk of a used car in 1981, he has built a business with global brand recognition, now with a direct sales force in North America, and selling direct or through distributors in over 110 countries. Salvin Dental has been ranked by Bank of America and Price Waterhouse Coopers multiple times in their Fast 50 ranking of privately held companies in the Charlotte area, and has been named multiple times as a Business Journal Best Place To Work. Bob is an alumnus of North Carolina State University, the Strategic Coach Program and the Center For Creative Leadership. He is a Past President of the Charlotte World Trade Association, and the Metrolina Business Council. He is the recipient of the Gateway International Trade Award, the North Carolina Governor's International Trade Award and has been honored by the Seattle Study Club Global Organization with the Charlie English Community Education Award. Bob is an Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award Winner. In addition to Salvin Dental, he serves on the boards of Clarion Research Group, a Pennsylvania based biotech company, and Lancer Orthodontics, a California based Orthodontic company.
December 12, 2013
, 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM You and your guest are cordially invited to attend the
2013 Annual MBC Holiday Party
This annual event is the ideal opportunity to get to know your fellow members and their families in a more intimate setting. Join us at MBC Member, Marc Mataya's home while enjoying cocktails and an amazing catered buffet by Best Impressions Catering. Dress is business casual. If you are a new member, you definitely don't want to miss this event! Thursday, December 12th, 2013 6:30pm-9:00pm Where: Marc Mataya's Home - 2215 Hassell Place, 28209 For Google Map Directions click here.
December 18, 2013
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM We hope to see everyone for our Annual Champagne Breakfast on Wednesday December 18th. At this meeting we will have a deluxe breakfast catered by Byron’s with Champagne and Orange Juice. It has been a tremendous year of accomplishments, great membership and wonderful connections. We will be toasting the New Year, giving recognition of those who have served as our MBC Board Members, presenting our traditional Donald Haack Award to a member and we will also be announcing and welcoming the new MBC Board for 2014. This event is a great opportunity to give recognition where it is due and also preview upcoming events at MBC.
December 30, 2013
, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM This is an important confirmation test to confirm that every member is both receiving these event request emails, as well as actually reading them and responding to RSVP requests by clicking one of the YES/NO links.
If you have received this email, and you read and respond to these, please click the YES link.
PS. REMEMBER THAT THERE IS NOT GOING TO BE A MEETING ON JANUARY 1ST!
January 15, 2014
, 7:00 AM - 8:45 AM Kick off the new 2014 year with what will possibly be the most important topics of your personal and business careers! You cannot define or measure how important these time-tested Dale Carnegie principals are in your everyday lives from the time you wake up, to the time you fall asleep. They even affect "how" you sleep! These core human principals affect how you interact with not just business relationships, but also with personal relationships, your staff, your partners, etc. This will be a meeting that you will not want to miss!
 Susan Spader - President/CEO of Dale Carnegie Training Charlotte & Western North Carolina
This award winning franchise covers 42 counties in North Carolina – from the Charlotte Metro Area to the mountain counties. Susan has been with Dale Carnegie since 2000 in various sales and management roles. She started in Charlotte NC as a Sales Associate and quickly achieved a top rank in global standings. She was promoted to General Manager and acquired the franchise territory in 2012. Susan is certified to deliver all of Dale Carnegie’s core programs, as well as creating and delivering customized Corporate Solutions. As a testament to her training expertise, she is ranked as one of the top trainers in the Dale Carnegie global organization. Susan has worked closely with more than 500 clients in the Charlotte and Western North Carolina area and has specialized knowledge in the finance, manufacturing, construction, information technology, healthcare and service industries. Her ability to build strong relationships and to gain an in-depth understanding of her client's businesses has enabled her to build enduring partnerships with her clients. Susan has a B.S. in Communications from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. In addition to her continued commitment to Dale Carnegie Training, Susan is active in her local community. She is married, mother to two sons, and is attempting to learn the fickle game of golf.
 David Kirkpatrick - Corporate Solutions Specialist for Dale Carnegie Charlotte & Western Carolina
His main focus includes individual and group development in the areas of leadership / management, human relations, customer service, sales, sales management, presentation skills, time management, and team building. David received a BA degree from the University of Georgia and a Masters of Education degree with a focus on Vocational and Career Development from Georgia State University. He has also completed additional studies in the Continued Professional Development Department at Oxford University, Oxford England. His career includes 16 years with Parisian Inc. (purchased by Belk Department Stores) as Divisional Merchandise Manager and Store Manager. He has served for 13 years as President and owner of Communication Network Corporation, a telecommunications equipment provider and for 6 years was Vice-President of Organizational Development, the Moser Group, a management /training consulting firm.
February 5, 2014
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Topic: How to do business with NASCAR and with other sports franchises. And, excellent lessons on what works and what doesn't in the sports arena!
 Lauri Eberhart - Speedway Benefits Corp.
Lauri has over 20 years of experience in the motorsports legal business and a very broad base of experience in many areas including corporate legal matters, start ups, business organizations, contract negotiations, strategic planning, budget management, profit and loss responsibility, intellectual property, licensing, employment matters, corporate finance matters, external relations, communications, sales and marketing and business management.
She was Vice President, Communications and General Counsel of Speedway Motorsports and participated in over $500 million of capital acquisition for the company and represented the company successfully during several acquisitions. As Executive Vice President of Charlotte Motor Speedway, she learned what it takes to run a successful business and was responsible for the successful opening of zMAX Dragway.
During her career, she has negotiated sponsorship agreements with values in excess of $100 million; employment agreements, real estate contracts, all while keeping legal fees within budget and adding to the profitability of the company. She was also VP of Marketing at Richmond International Speedway and Director of Sales at the NASCAR Hall of Fame.
Things Lauri would not say about herself:
February 19, 2014
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM There will be no speaker today. Instead, we are going to do a little housekeeping event that includes...
In an effort to get our membership directory stepped up another notch, we are setting up Mitchell's screens and lights at Byron's so that members can update their photo that is being used in the membership directory. New members get a free photo as part of their new membership and existing members can optionally update their photo for $85. Please plan on wearing a collared shirt that day for the pictures. Remember that these photos can also be used for your LinkedIn profiles or other bio profiles. Also, this is a golden opportunity to get an updated quality photo of yourself that you can give to other family members, grandchildren, etc.
During the photo shoot, members can eat and mingle at the stand-up bar tables or at the round sitting tables.
We'll also have the screen and projector running with a laptop and we'll be demonstrating how to log into the website to look up members, how to create emails, how to forward contact information to referrals, etc. At this time, we'll ask that you ALL come up to make sure that your profile is up to date with the most current information.
IMPORTANT PHOTOGRAPHY PREP INFORMATION:
March 5, 2014
, 7:00 AM - 8:45 AM PRESENTATION LINK: GlenRaiger-TheTruthAboutValueCreation.pdf
Glen Raiger is a diverse industry and business “C” level executive with over 35 years of consistent successes leading, designing and executing growth and value creation strategies. Mr. Raiger brings his clients a unique perspective that allows him to fully understand and relate to the issues and challenges owners must deal with when seeking to grow their businesses.
Mr. Raiger also has significant international business experience which includes forming strategic alliances, making strategic acquisitions and starting new businesses in Asia, South America, Mexico and Northern Europe.Over Mr. Raiger's career he successfully built and sold four diverse industry businesses from the position of start up to the position of strategic acquisition and investment. Mr. Raiger holds a triple bachelor’s degree in Management Science, Economics and International Business from Carnegie-Mellon University and has completed the Executive Management Program at the Wharton School of Business.He has served on numerous Boards of Directors for both domestic and international companies classified as start-up, early stage, middle market and larger cap companies.
Topic:
The Truth About Creating Company Value • Three ways owners get paid • Do you have a number in mind that you would consider selling your business? Why not and why should you? • How long will it take at your current growth rate to get there? • How much is your business worth today? • Ideas and ways to get there faster. • What creates value and makes a company more attractive to a buyer so they will pay a premium If you do a Google search on what the number one reason for businesses failing you won’t find this word but virtually every article speaks to the components that lead right to it. SCALABILITY • How do I scale my business to keep pace with rapid the growth? • What are the elements of scaling that ensure successful value creation and protect my downside
March 19, 2014
, 7:00 AM - 8:45 AM
April 2, 2014
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM At this meeting we will ask a selection of members (last names beginning A-L) to share their top five business tools that have revolutionized their business. This is a great opportunity for us all to learn from each other and enhance the group dynamic through discussion. What has worked well for you?
The selection of members at the meeting will be asked to take 3-4 minutes to present the following at the podium:
We will also ask this selection of members to bring a typed copy to the meeting or email Isra with your top five so that we can post it to the website. These will be treated like testimonials so that members can reference them at any time for a reminder!
We look forward to learning from this information exchange!
April 16, 2014
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM At this meeting we will have members present for 3-5 minutes their Top 5 tools that have revolutionized their business. “Tools” can be anything such as an application, resource, contractor, book, class, vendor, decision, quote, mentor, style, principal, etc.
We will give priority to those who did not get a chance to speak at the last meeting, and then continue in the order in which I have received your presentation until the meeting concludes. This is an amazing opportunity for us all to learn from each other and enhance the group dynamic through discussion. The end result will be a 90 page slideshow/PDF that will be an invaluable asset to MBC for years to come as we perpetually update it annually. Please email me your Top 5 bullet points and detail how you apply it to your business and how you feel it will help others. I will add your information to the master slideshow and it will be ready for you to present. Here is an example from the last meeting: Kent Lowe Integrity Heating and Cooling · Keep it simple- sometimes we overlook the obvious. · Learn best practices from a proven source rather than reinvent the wheel. · Online reviews are a tremendous aid to your website. Ask and remind clients to go out and provide them on Google, Yahoo, Yelp, Angie’s List etc. · A software package is extremely beneficial to our company in managing labor while having all of our clients’ history and information at our finger tips. Keeping eyes and ears open for technological developments can provide some tremendous customer wow’s as well as a competitive advantage. · Read ‘Good to Great’ We will have a slide available for your presentation so you must email us your list prior to the meeting. Also, you may choose to do your own mini-slideshow, and we can do a raw summary slide for the final master copy. Remember that we’d like to keep each member’s presentation under 5 minutes.
We look forward to learning from this information exchange!
May 7, 2014
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM  Dan Rajkowski: Executive VP and COO of the Charlotte Knights
We are pleased to welcome Dan Rajkowski who will be speaking at MBC.
Dan has held his current title since November 30, 2012. Previously he spent seven years as the club's Vice President and General Manager.
As a 29-year veteran of the baseball business, Rajkowski has operated clubs at all classifications of Minor League Baseball. Dan has worked for owner Don Beaver over the past 20 years, managing three of his teams. In addition to the Charlotte Knights, Dan also ran teams in Knoxville, TN and New Orleans, LA. The Charlotte Knights opened BB&T Ballpark in April to a sellout crowd and the Knights lead all of Minor League Baseball in attendance. Rajkowski is an active member in numerous community organizations. He currently sits on the Boards for the Ambassadors of Levine Children’s Hospital and the Charlotte Regional Partnership. In addition he is a member of the Charlotte Rotary and is active in the Greater Charlotte Hospitality and Tourism Alliance. Over the span of Rajkowski's career, he has operated clubs at every level of Minor League Baseball. He is a graduate of Cortland State University with a degree in Sports Management and Administration. He has served on a number of boards within the baseball community.
May 21, 2014
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM  “Businesses don’t improve…people do.”
As leaders we must put first things first. It starts at the top. Do you want to grow your business and your people? You grow. You learn. You model. You serve. You respect others. You trust. You lead. You provide value. You treat others well.
You must be willing to look in the mirror, accept responsibility and change first. Corporate and employee change naturally flows when the leader leads and changes. As John Wooden said, “Young people don’t need critics, they need models.” This applies to organizations as well. Employees don’t need critics, they need leaders who model the characteristics they seek in their people.
This personal process begins by understanding our mindset. How do I, as the owner, leader or president see, interpret and engage the world? How do I handle failure? What are my views on corporate and personal change? What are my views on innate talent? Can people really change? What do I think about goals? How do I talk to my employees? How do I talk to myself?
Subtopics include: dealing with fear, the getting better vs being good mindset, the talent myth, reframing failure, the beginners mind, fueling our heart and minds, becoming your own best coach, mental toughness defined for business, and the importance of the process.
June 4, 2014
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM MBC welcomes Jeff Shelton of the US National White Water Center. Jeff will give us a brief history of the White Water Center, obstacles he has had to overcome and great business tips for all of us.
Jeff Shelton, Chief Financial Officer
Jeff began his career as a certified public accountant with KPMG after graduating from Western Kentucky University. In addition to his six-year stint at KPMG, Jeff has worked in financial, operational and development roles for small start-up and large publicly-traded companies, including VP positions with PhyCor and MedCath, two national healthcare companies. Jeff began his association with the USWNC as volunteer and migrated to Board member and then to employee, joining the USNWC as its CFO in 2005. Jeff has served on several nonprofit boards, is involved with the athletic boosters at Providence High School including serving as President and Treasurer, and is active with his family at their church. He is married to Rebecca (Hoover), a Charlotte native; they have four daughters.
June 18, 2014
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM At this meeting we will continue to get to know select MBC members as they tell us about themselves, their family, their businesses as well as their Top 5 tools that have revolutionized their business.
To recap:
This is an amazing opportunity for us all to learn from each other and enhance the group dynamic through discussion. The end result will be a 90 page slideshow/PDF that will be an invaluable asset to MBC for years to come as we perpetually update it annually. So far we have heard incredible presentations and the feedback has been positive. Here is an example from what has worked well for Ellison Clary, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina:
Mitchell Kearney will also be taking photos in the back for our 2014/2015 Membership Directory. Please contact him if you would like to be placed on the list.
July 16, 2014
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM  Topic: How to build an $11,000,000 non-profit organization doing what you love!Spencer Lueders is a social entrepreneur and thought leader with a passion for bikes and changing the conversation about cancer. Spencer is the founder of 24 Hours of Booty, which has raised more than 11 million dollars since inception, and the Giordana Velodrome in Rock Hill, SC.
Spencer received a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering and later a Juris Doctor from the University of South Carolina. He spent many years in private practice and more than half a decade as an attorney with NASCAR, Inc. Never one to shy from challenge and learning new things, Spencer stopped practicing law in 2013 and is now Assistant General Manager at East Charlotte Nissan.
An avid cyclist for over 20 years, Spencer holds a USA Cycling Category II license. Spencer and his wife, Susan, have 3 children and reside in Charlotte, NC.
August 6, 2014
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Preparing your Last Will and Testament while you wait
David Erdman invented the DoubleLegal (TM) system (client and lawyer working together to create a legal document) to write Wills and Power of Attorney documents in a single meeting with the client. At the August 6th MBC meeting, David will create and print a Will for MBC volunteer, Anne Mayfield, while she and the audience participate. (We will need three Will witnesses). Will Bishop, Notary Public, will notarize the document. Anne’s Will can be completed in the time usually taken for the program, and there may be time to set up her Power of Attorney as well. The process will be similar to that which all clients complete in David’s office when they write their documents, including Wills, Powers of Attorney, Healthcare Powers of Attorney and Living Wills. You will learn what’s standard and not standard about these documents, as they are customized to Anne’s specifications, and you will see how efficiently documents can be prepared using David’s DoubleLegal (TM) system
August 20, 2014
, 7:00 AM - 8:45 AM About Enventy's: http://www.Enventys.com
Enventys is a uniquely innovative company dedicated to helping you stay far ahead of the competition. Simply put, we believe there are two ways to grow your business: introduce new innovative products or sell more of what you already have. Whichever direction fits your needs, we can help you thrive with a proven approach that delivers quantifiable results. Our 100 year old renovated warehouse in the heart of downtown Charlotte N.C. contains all the resources you'll need. We have experts in industrial design, engineering, prototyping, web and interactive, branding and advertising, public relations and video production all under one roof to help you succeed from every angle. Instead of a singular focus or one size fits all process, we provide solutions tailored to meet your needs with only one goal in mind; to maximize your return. Whether you choose to utilize all or just a few of our expert resources, our experience and passion will produce the results you seek.
 About Louis ForemanLouis Foreman is founder and Chief Executive of Enventys (www.enventys.com), an integrated product design and engineering firm. He is also CEO of Edison Nation (www.EdisonNation.com), and Edison Nation Medical (www.EdisonNationMedical.com ). Louis graduated from The University of Illinois with a Bachelors of Science degree in Economics. His interest in starting businesses and developing innovative products began while a sophomore with his first company founded in his fraternity room. Over the past 20 years Louis has created 9 successful start-ups and has been directly responsible for the creation of over 20 others. A prolific inventor, he is the inventor of 10 registered US Patents, and his firm is responsible for the development and filing of well over 600 more. The recipient of numerous awards for entrepreneurial achievement, his passion for small business extends beyond his own companies. Louis is an adjunct professor of Entrepreneurship and Innovation, at Queens University. He received the Instructor Achievement Award for his teaching at Central Piedmont Community College, and was recognized by the National Museum of Education for his Distinguished Contributions to Education. Louis is an adjunct professor and the Entrepreneur in Residence at The McColl School of Business, and is the 2013 Distinguished Visiting Professor at Johnson & Wales University. He is a frequent lecturer and radio / TV guest on the topics of small business creation and innovation, and is frequently invited by the United States Patent and Trademark Office and national trade associations to be a featured speaker on the topic of innovation. In addition to being an inventor, Louis is also committed to inspiring others to be innovative. Louis is the creator of the Emmy® Award winning PBS TV show, Everyday Edisons, and serves as the Executive Producer and lead judge. The show is in its Fifth season and appears nationally on PBS. In 2007, Louis became the publisher of Inventors Digest, a 29 year old publication devoted to the topic of American Innovation. In 2009, his first book, The Independent Inventor’s Handbook, was published by Workman Publishing. Louis serves on the Board of Directors of the James Dyson Foundation, the Intellectual Property Owners Association (IPO), Ventureprise, New Dominion Bank, and is President of the Intellectual Property Owners Educational Foundation (IPOEF). In 2013, Louis was appointed by SBA Administrator, Karen Mills, to serve a three year term on the National SBDC Advisory Board. In 2008, Louis was appointed by United States Secretary of Commerce Carlos M. Gutierrez to serve for a three year term on the nine-person Patent Public Advisory Committee (PPAC) of the United States Patent and Trademark Office. In 2011, he was appointed by Secretary Gary Locke to serve an additional three year term. The Committee was created by Congress in 1999 to advise the Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office on matters relating to the policies, goals, performance, budget, and user fees of the patent operation. In 2013 he was asked to serve as Chairman of PPAC until the end of his term in December, 2014. In 2011 Louis was called upon, multiple times, to brief the House and Senate Judiciary Committees on legislation related to the US Patent System and its impact on independent inventors. On September 16, 2011, Louis joined the President on-stage for the signing of the America Invents Act into law. This bi-partisan effort represented the most comprehensive overhaul to the US Patent System in over 60 years.
August 21, 2014
, 6:00 PM - 11:00 PM You and one guest are invited to mix and mingle at The Vue SKY lounge in Uptown Charlotte on Thursday August 21st at 6pm. The VUE is located at 215 North Pine Street, Charlotte, NC 28202.
The highest high-rise between New York and Miami is in Uptown Charlotte, so luxurious that there is a baby grand in the 50th floor SKY Lounge, a concierge in the lobby and spectacular amenities. With vuephoric views of the city, the BB&T ballpark, the Panthers stadium, even the North Carolina mountains.
Enjoy heavy hors'doeuvrs, beer, wine and cocktails catered by our very own Dave Byron. Your RSVP will account for two people. Please RSVP by Monday 8/18 and email info@charlottembc.com with your guest's full name. We would need to provide a full list to the conceirge and you and your guest will be escorted to the 50th floor SKY lounge.
September 3, 2014
, 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM John grew up on a black angus cattle farm and has been married 26 years and has three children. He is an entrepreneur at heart and led a thriving practice in the financial services industry for 22 years advising high capacity families, entrepreneurs, executives and private businesses. He has his CFP® designation (Certified Financial Planner®), has received numerous industry awards and has been internationally recognized as a leader in his industry by the Million Dollar Round Table. John has always been active in his community serving in leadership roles in Boy Scouts, the arts, non-profits, his church, and schools.
John is an avid writer and speaker. He has had extensive media exposure in sharing his ideas, opinions and insights with millions of people on financial issues facing families and businesses, via local, regional and national television, radio and periodicals. Currently, you can hear John’s daily financial stewardship radio ministry outreach, Change for Your Dollar, on New Life 91.9 and its network stations, or, visit www.thesimplesteward.com.
Over the last decade of his advisory career, John began to focus more on his client’s life planning and the issues behind their financial choices and wealth transfer decisions. He spent these same years in concentrated study in this unique field with top subject matter experts around the country. He has had thousands of conversations guiding individuals and families through thoughtful processes to create clarity and unity in their lives and move toward achieving their respective financial goals, community impact and family legacies.
This faith-filled passion and calling, combined with his financial industry expertise, led him to transition from his financial advisory practice in March, 2012. He is now the Founding President of National Christian Foundation Piedmont in Charlotte, N.C., a regional affiliate of National Christian Foundation in Atlanta, Georgia, with a vision to “encourage Kingdom stewardship and mobilize Kingdom resources.” Please visit www.piedmont.nationalchristian.com to learn more and share.
September 17, 2014
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM As a member of MBC, we want you to know other members you might have only briefly interacted with. This Happy Hour event will give you the opportunity to mix and mingle, discuss your company and rotate around the room. Here is the perfect method of learning a little bit more about the people you see twice a month! What does your company do? Who is your target market (what do you consider an ideal client)? What is a good referral to you? What are your goals as a member of MBC? Byron’s will be setup with bar table tops and special horsdevours style breakfast foods. We look forward to a well-attended event.
October 1, 2014
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM This meeting will be held at the Enventys Headquarters: 520 Elliot Street, Suite 200 where we will have breakfast and be given a guided tour through the facility while learning more about their company.
About Enventy's: http://www.Enventys.com
Enventys is a uniquely innovative company dedicated to helping you stay far ahead of the competition. Simply put, we believe there are two ways to grow your business: introduce new innovative products or sell more of what you already have. Whichever direction fits your needs, we can help you thrive with a proven approach that delivers quantifiable results. Our 100 year old renovated warehouse in the heart of downtown Charlotte N.C. contains all the resources you'll need. We have experts in industrial design, engineering, prototyping, web and interactive, branding and advertising, public relations and video production all under one roof to help you succeed from every angle. Instead of a singular focus or one size fits all process, we provide solutions tailored to meet your needs with only one goal in mind; to maximize your return. Whether you choose to utilize all or just a few of our expert resources, our experience and passion will produce the results you seek.
October 15, 2014
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM David Jones, Chairman & CEO, Peak 10
David co-founded Peak 10 in March of 2000 and has assembled an expert management team which has worked together to build one of the industry's most admired companies in the data center and cloud infrastructure industry. The company has consistently produced impressive, consistent year over year financial performance and growth. Under David’s leadership, the company has become a national leader in IT infrastructure, cloud and managed services, with a focus on mid-market businesses across a variety of industries. Via its 25 data centers in 10 U.S. cities, Peak 10 delivers tailored, end-to-end, regulatory-compliant solutions to customers around the globe.
Prior to Peak 10, David was president of the Competitive Solutions Group at CHR Solutions, a telecommunications management-consulting firm based in Dallas, Texas. He has 25 years of combined executive leadership experience in sales, marketing and operations working for GTE (Verizon), Telecom*USA, MCI and ITC Holding Company.
David serves as the chairman of the board of directors for the Steele Creek YMCA in Charlotte and is on the advisory board for the McColl School of Business at Queens University. He served as the 2009 chairman of the board of directors for NCTA, and for a number of years on the NCTA executive committee. David has served as a member of executive committee and board of directors for the Charlotte Chamber of Commerce and is the former chairman of the Business Innovation and Growth (BIG) Council.
David holds a B.A. degree in Economics from the University of Virginia and also completed the Executive Development Business Program at George Washington University.
November 5, 2014
, 7:00 AM - 8:45 AM Ann Clausen will provide an update on Federal and NC tax laws and a discussion on what is possibly coming in the future.
S. ANN CLAUSEN, CPA CGMA
Over thirty- five years ago, Ann decided she wanted to be a CPA and help business owners reach their goals whether it was to grow their businesses, protect their assets or eventually retire. As a result, her business and tax experience is now extensive and includes professional service firms, manufacturing, retail, real estate, restaurants, and construction as well as high wealth tax planning for business owners. Her experience also includes extensive tax preparation and planning services in combination with business consulting. She works with business owners to utilize the federal and state tax laws to reduce their tax liabilities with techniques such as cost segregation studies and like-kind exchanges. Ann also represents her clients to settle federal and state tax issues. As a member of the community, Ann is involved in local organizations such as Women Executives, Metrolina Business Council as Treasure for 6 years, Go Red for Women, NCACPA local board, and various charitable organizations. She also is frequently a guest speaker on tax issues for local and national organizations.
Ann graduated with honors from Averett University, located in Danville, VA, obtaining a degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting. She then attended Radford University’s Graduate School of Business and Economics in Radford, VA. Ann holds her CPA certification in North Carolina and the AICPA certification CGMA.
November 19, 2014
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Josh Kramer
Vice President of Marketing & Brand Strategy
 Josh Kramer is in his eighth season with the organization and enters his second season as Vice President of Marketing & Brand Strategy. In this role, he is responsible for shaping the Hornets brand through creative innovation, marketing campaigns and experiential opportunities, while also maximizing ticket sales and partnerships revenue through ad campaigns, digital strategies and internal and external marketing activations.
Kramer joined the franchise in 2007 as Director of Event Presentation. After two seasons in the Event Presentation group, he was promoted to Senior Director of Marketing in 2009 before moving into his current role in 2013.
December 3, 2014
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM 
Bob Rucho is a Republican member of the North Carolina State Senate, representing District 39. He was first appointed to the chamber in June 2008.
Rucho earned his B.S. from Northeastern University in 1970 and his D.D.S from the Medical College of Virginia in 1974. Rucho later earned his Advanced Degree in Prosthodontics from Boston University in 1977. He also holds a M.B.A from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 1994. Rucho is the former Chief of the Department of Dentistry at Carolinas Medical Center. He is a practicing dentist and prosthodontics specialist.
December 11, 2014
, 6:30 PM - 10:00 PM You and your guest are invited to the MBC Holiday Party at The Vue SKY lounge in Uptown Charlotte on Thursday December 11th at 6:30pm. The VUE is located at 215 North Pine Street, Charlotte, NC 28202.
Many of you attended our Summer Social at the highest high-rise between New York and Miami is in Uptown Charlotte, so luxurious that there is a baby grand in the 50th floor SKY Lounge, a concierge in the lobby and spectacular amenities. With vuephoric views of the city, the BB&T ballpark, the Panthers stadium, even the North Carolina mountains.
Enjoy heavy hors'doeuvrs, beer, wine and cocktails catered by our very own Dave Byron. Please RSVP by Monday 12/8 and email info@charlottembc.com with your guest's full name. We would need to provide a full list to the conceirge and you and your guest will be escorted to the 50th floor SKY lounge.
December 17, 2014
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM We hope to see everyone for our Annual Champagne Breakfast on Wednesday December 17th. At this meeting we will have a deluxe breakfast catered by Byron’s with Champagne and Orange Juice. It has been a tremendous year of accomplishments, great membership and wonderful connections. We will be toasting the New Year, giving recognition to those who have served as our MBC Board Members and we will also be announcing and welcoming the new MBC Board for 2014. This event is a great opportunity to give recognition where it is due and also preview upcoming events at MBC.
January 7, 2015
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM SPEAKER: DEBBY MILLHOUSE
“There was a fascinating study conducted on the 1979 Harvard MBA program where graduate students were asked “have you set clear, written goals for your future and made plans to accomplish them?” The result, only 3% had written goals and plans, 13% had goals but they weren’t in writing and 84% had no goals at all. Ten years later, the same group was interviewed again and the result was absolutely mind-blowing.
The 13% of the class who had goals, but did not write them down was earning twice the amount of the 84% who had no goals. The 3% who had written goals were earning, on average, ten times as much as the other 97% of the class combined!” (Why you should be writing down your goals by Ashley Feinstein, Forbes)
At this meeting, Debby Millhouse will show us a strategic approach to putting your 2015 plan in place. Please consider the following, so that our time together can be profitable for you:
· If you are sitting down one year from now…what will have to happen for you to feel successful about the year?
· What are the dangers or obstacles you face?
· What are the opportunities?
· What skills do you have to get there?
January 21, 2015
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Kent Lowe will be discussing building a company through the 2008 Great recession. He will discuss the following:
· Purchasing a company
· Learning a completely new field
· Surviving a major defection and the great recession
· How core values have helped us to survive and grow
Kent Lowe was born in S. Africa and moved to Wisconsin at age 17.
He graduated from UW Whitewater and UW Wisconsin and has 12 years in operations, product development and international sales and marketing. He has been in the HVAC industry for 9 years and is loving life in Charlotte!
January 28, 2015
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Everyone picked a business card of a fellow MBC Member at the last meeting to spend some time getting to know them better. Here is an opportunity for those who live or work close to the South End area.
We will be meeting on Wednesday, January 28th at Ice House South End 2100 South Blvd from 5-7pm.
This event is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC social budget but is the perfect opportunity to get together outside of the breakfast meeting setting.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact myself or Bill Linger- bill@drlinger.com
January 29, 2015
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Everyone picked a business card of a fellow MBC Member at the last meeting to spend some time getting to know them better. Here is an opportunity for those who live or work close to the South Charlotte area.
We will be meeting on Thursday, January 29th at the Rusty Onion 6654 Carmel Rd. Charlotte, NC 28226 from 5-7pm.
This event is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC social budget but is the perfect opportunity to get together outside of the breakfast meeting setting.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact myself or Bill Linger- bill@drlinger.com
February 4, 2015
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Get to know your very own MBC Members Craig Dunn and Will Bishop as they provide us with insight around their businesses and a little bit of personal history too.
Craig Dunn
Craig Alan Dunn of Carolinas Office Solutions was born in Erwin, NC and relocated to Charlotte 1968. He graduated from Appalachian State University with a 2 ½ year stint at The Citadel. Craig started his business in 2000 with his childhood friend from 2nd grade, with a $150 investment each – from which they built from the business from the ground up.
Will Bishop
Will is originally from Greenwood, SC
Graduated from Presbyterian College in 1995
Eloped to Mexico to marry my bride Ronni Bishop in 2012
Proud husband & father of our beautiful daughter, Reed
Banker with PNC since 1999. We were Centura Bank till 2001 and
RBC Bank till 2012. Will will be speaking about how PNC Bank helps business owners.
March 4, 2015
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Troy Meeks will be speaking at the next meeting about his lessons learned from coaching high school football and how it applies to parenting and business.
About Troy:
Resident of Charlotte since 1979.
Graduated Independence High School in 1987 and Yale University in 1991. Played quarterback on Yale’s football team freshman and sophomore year.
Married to wife Ashley and they will celebrate 20 years this October.
Troy has 3 children – Daughter Jordan (15) is a sophomore at Providence HS. Sons David (12) and Daniel (10) are 6th and 4th grade at Collinswood Language Academy
Will be starting his 3rd year coaching at Providence HS this fall.
Troy has been in the residential mortgage lending industry since the beginning of 2002.
March 18, 2015
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Increase your awareness and mitigate risk by listening and contributing to the conversation about Cyber Security. Dan Wilson of Waypoint as well as our very own members John Cantrell, Jim Golz, Brook Hobgood and Marc Mataya will be on the panel this week as they share their experience and offer practical advice for running your business by taking the proper precautions to protect your information.
April 1, 2015
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM A North Carolina native, Rick has been in the newspaper business his entire career. He earned a BA in English from Pfeiffer College and received his MA in Journalism from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville campus. He has served stints for the Knight Ridder chain in Wichita, Miami and Charlotte in various positions. His current employer is the McClatchey chain which purchased many of the Knight-Ridder papers several years ago.
Rick will be speaking about managing in a “changing environment” which is a must for anyone in the “paper” business as the internet has significantly changed the operating model of the news business. Currently serving on a task force of the paper guided by consultants at Stanford University, Rick will be sharing his thoughts of “developing an entrepreneurial spirit” within an organization.
Whether big or small, whatever the market, all of us are managing in a rapidly changing environment. Please come to this meeting prepared to learn how one large business is dealing with this issue. You won’t be disappointed .
April 15, 2015
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM After graduating from Boston College in 1985 with a B.A. in Economics, David Redding served nine years in the United States Army in the Infantry and Special Forces. He is a graduate of Ranger School, the Special Forces Qualification Course, SERE and French Commando School. His Special Forces career includes the command of a Special Forces A-Team during Operation Desert Storm.
Redding left the Army in 1994 to attend Wake Forest University Law School. Since his graduation in 1997, his practice has been primarily located in Charlotte, North Carolina in the area of commercial litigation. He has vast experience in all facets of complex commercial disputes in state and federal courts, as well as arbitration. He has taken several cases to North Carolina’s appellate courts on complex issues involving indemnification, liability limitation and the uniform commercial code.
Topic- David is going to talk about how he and the F3 team have used social media and preparation to expand F3 into other areas. How they scaled and are scaling F3 into a regional and national nonprofit.
April 22, 2015
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Here is an opportunity for those who live or work close to the South End area.
We will be meeting on Wednesday, April 22nd at Ice House South End 2100 South Blvd from 5-7pm.
This event is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC social budget but is the perfect opportunity to get together outside of the breakfast meeting setting.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact myself or Bill Linger- bill@drlinger.com
April 23, 2015
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Here is an opportunity for those who live or work close to the South Charlotte area.
We will be meeting on Thursday, April 23rd at the Rusty Onion 6654 Carmel Rd. Charlotte, NC 28226 from 5-7pm.
This event is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC social budget but is the perfect opportunity to get together outside of the breakfast meeting setting.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact myself or Bill Linger- bill@drlinger.com
May 6, 2015
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM A Florida native, Jim has been in the shipping business most of his career. After 3 years of college he entered the Air Force and became an Air Traffic Controller stationed at Keesler AFB, Biloxi, MS and March AFB, Riverside, CA and Anderson AFB Guam and finished up his Air Force Career at Vance AFB, Pilot Training Wing in Enid, OK . He went on to work for Ross Perot at EDS in Dallas, Tx and for Fred Smith in the start up years and then on to bigger and better things in the world of shipping. He will be presenting his story in the meeting on May 6th which will also include additional projects he has been working on since his last presentation 5 years ago.
May 6, 2015
, 12:30 PM - 4:00 PM Please RSVP if you would like to play golf at Carolina Golf Club on Wednesday May 6th at 12:30.
This event will be "play your own ball". The cost is $75.00 and payment can be made to Metrolina Business Council. The address is 2415 Old Steele Creek Road Charlotte NC 28208. The event is limited to 16 people so please RSVP if you will be in attendance. If you have any questions regarding this event please contact John Cantrell- jc9000@gmail.com or call 704-905-9000
May 20, 2015
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM David provides his subject matter expertise to assist healthcare organizations to define their logistics strategies and to develop practical solutions that enhance patient safety, customer experience, and the efficiency of operations. David understands large organizations, how they work, and how they can be changed to improve operations. He also understands the balance an organization must have between clinical and support activities and often acts as an honest broker between multiple stakeholders to find win/win solutions.
David's Topic will be:
"Diverse, Changing Career - Constant Values"
He will be speaking about:
June 3, 2015
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Andy Dinkin, Vice President of Sales & Marketing with Coldwell Banker Commercial, will provide an update on the Charlotte Commercial Real Estate Market Overview and will inform us on what he and his firm are doing in the market to help their clients.
Andy Dinkin states:
I may be wrong but I don't think so....
· I believe in the growth of Charlotte
· I believe the real estate on road corridors to Center City will have great appreciation - see the skyline
· I believe the real estate near the light rail will have great appreciation
· I believe in the growth of West Charlotte and Gaston County
June 10, 2015
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Here is an opportunity for those who live or work close to the South End area.
We will be meeting on Wednesday, June 10th at Ice House South End 2100 South Blvd from 5-7pm.
This event is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC social budget but is the perfect opportunity to get together outside of the breakfast meeting setting.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact myself or Bill Linger- bill@drlinger.com
June 11, 2015
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Here is an opportunity for those who live or work close to the South Charlotte area.
We will be meeting on Thursday, June 11 at the Rusty Onion 6654 Carmel Rd. Charlotte, NC 28226 from 5-7pm.
This event is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC social budget but is the perfect opportunity to get together outside of the breakfast meeting setting.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact myself or Bill Linger- bill@drlinger.com
June 17, 2015
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM David is the owner of a company called Piedmont Machinery of Charlotte.
In 2008, his daughter died of melanoma cancer at the age of 30. This horrible incident caused him to establish a nonprofit called the purple promise with a purpose to end melanoma. David is going to talk to us about the challenges of starting a nonprofit, following his passion, and integrating those two things together. Www.purplepromise.com
July 1, 2015
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Networking and Deliver your 60 second elevator speech
When someone asks you:
What do you do?
What is your ideal client?
How do you answer them? What a great time to practice your elevator speech while letting everyone get a refresher on what people are looking for in new clients.
Practice and you'll have the opportunity to give your elevator speech to others next week.
July 15, 2015
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Frank will be speaking on how connecting WHY you do to WHAT you do is the most effective way to tell your story and differentiate yourself from your competition.
Frank Schwartz began his career in video almost by accident. After finishing his undergraduate degree from Radford University with a major in Psychology, he began working in the campus Radio and T.V. department to help pay his way through Graduate School. He became interested in the true human connection that video creates and the way people emotionally connect through the medium. This emotional connection translates to business also, and creating this with their customers is integral to the buying process. LEC Media was created with this connection in mind. Frank describes himself as a problem solver, counselor and motivator whose goal is to understand his clients’ needs and develop a solution, through video, to meet their needs. Frank certainly has a deep and vibrant background in producing engaging B2B and B2C videos. But, above all else, clients connect with Frank’s passion, energy and keen ability to elicit the heart of the story from them. He firmly believes that everyone is in the people business, regardless of business type. His psychology background proves useful in uncovering the human element from clients to help them build that critical connection with their customers. His role with his employees is to serve as an unwavering motivator. He believes in a collaborative and flexible company culture at LEC. This culture fosters productive, happy and engaged employees, all of which leads to satisfied clients and top-notch videos.
July 15, 2015
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM We will be meeting on Wednesday 7/15 at Brazwell's at 1627 Montford Dr, Charlotte NC 28209 from 5-7pm.
This event is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC social budget but is the perfect opportunity to get together outside of the breakfast meeting setting.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact myself or Bill Linger- bill@drlinger.com
July 29, 2015
, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Richard Sterling has been gracious enough to invite the MBC Members to his home for Happy Hour on July 29th.
The address is 636 Penn Street.
He will be prepared for guests by 6PM.
Richard will supply craft beer in growlers, a specialty summer cocktail and heavy appetizers. Please RSVP so Richard can have an idea of how many to expect.
August 5, 2015
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Mark Erwin is our speaker for the next meeting. He is president of Erwin Capital, a family owned investment company. He was appointed by President Clinton and is currently serving as the US Ambassador to the Republic of Maruritius, the republic of Seychelles, and the Republic of Comoros.
His topic is on Cuba and the negotiations to lift the embargo and restore diplomatic relations. He has written several books and should be a most interesting talk.
August 19, 2015
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM KIP ROTH Kip Roth lives his message. Born fingerless with severely deformed arms and hands, Kip endured years of surgeries just to have a chance at a normal life. Kip made the most of that chance, becoming a successful Lawyer, Entrepreneur, Author, Civil Rights Leader, Member of the United States Paralympic Team, Two Time Paralympic and Disabled World Ski Championship Medalist, Four-Time National Disabled Ski Champion and Professional Public speaker. Today, Kip is a successful entrepreneur, owns operates a real estate franchise, and is a recognized industry expert and presenter. Kip has appeared on Good Morning America and has many other television and radio appearances.
August 26, 2015
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM ~~Here is an opportunity for those who live or work close to the South End area.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact myself or Bill Linger- bill@drlinger.com
September 2, 2015
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Internet marketing continues to evolve at a rapid pace. Having a website is the cost of entry to doing business today. If you aren’t finding ways to reach your customers and prospects where they are online, then your competitors will. At our next meeting, William McKee, a partner in Knowmad Digital Marketing, will share findings from their annual State of Internet Marketing report, examples of their work and steps you can take to create more sales leads from your marketing efforts.
William founded Knowmad in
With a liberal arts degree
Outside of work, William
September 16, 2015
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Ronnie Bryant leads the team that promotes the 16-county Charlotte USA region throughout the world as a premier location for businesses considering expansion or relocation. Additionally, he works closely with Partnership investors who provide the funding necessary to bring jobs and capital to the region. As a member of the North Carolina Economic Development Board and other professional and civic organizations, Bryant ensures that the region plays a prominent role regionally and nationally.
Bryant has more than 20 years of technical, managerial and economic development expertise, and a proven track record of establishing and implementing successful economic development programs. He specializes in existing industry expansion and retention, with a strong emphasis on regionalism and marketing. A certified economic developer (CEcD) since 1991, Bryant is a graduate of Louisiana State University in Shreveport and the Economic Development Institute at the University of Oklahoma in Norman where he currently serves as dean.
October 2, 2015
, 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM Please join us for a casual lunch social at Belle Acres Golf and Country Club 3033 South Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28209 on Friday October 2nd.
This event is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC social budget but is the perfect opportunity to get together outside of the breakfast meeting setting.
Please RSVP by Thursday 10/1. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact myself or Bill Linger- bill@drlinger.com
October 7, 2015
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM At this meeting, Richard Sterling will speak on the evolving nature of financial services industry and how we have to adapt to add value.
Richard Sterling is a Financial Advisor with Merrill Lynch with a bit of a different career path. He has a degree in Pharmacy from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and an MBA from UNC Charlotte. In getting his MBA, Richard was part of the Student Management Investment Fund. He believes that regardless of the career path, personal and professional satisfaction comes from being a help to others.
When not helping others professionally, Richard enjoys spending time with his wife and stepson, seeing live concerts, trying to stay fit, challenging gravity to a dual, backpacking, cooking, improving his photography skills, reading, and well, pretty much everything. He’s that kind of guy.
October 21, 2015
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Technocom was established on the philosophy that raising industry standards would create a ‘Win, Win, Win’ situation. A higher standard of service ensures that our customers win. A positive working environment ensures that our employees win. And, with happy clients and experienced, motivated employees, our company wins.
This meeting will take place at the Technocom Facility: 3330 Monroe Rd Charlotte, NC 28205 where Jim Riggins will give a tour of the facility as well as a presentation on how the company has evolved from the Copy/Print/Fax business it had once been exclusively known for.
October 28, 2015
, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Marc Mataya has graciously volunteered to host this month's Happy Hour at his home.
This is another great opportunity to get together outside of the breakfast meeting setting.
Please RSVP for this event and contact Marc if you have any questions or concerns with attending this event.
2215 Hassell Place Charlotte, NC 28209
November 4, 2015
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Dr. Glyn Cowlishaw brings to Providence Day more than 30 years of
education experience. Prior to joining PDS in 2011, he had served as
headmaster, teacher and coach at Pinewood Preparatory School, an independent, coeducational, college preparatory day school in Summerville, S.C. During his tenure, he initiated and implemented a kindergarten through 12th grade curriculum, guided the school to its inaugural Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Accreditation, doubled enrollment, supervised the construction of a campus consisting of one construction project per year, and developed and fostered a culture of giving via annual and capital funds and endowment. Dr. Cowlishaw began his teaching career in 1980 in the United Kingdom. He taught in high school and middle school and lectured in a college prior to entering the world of international education in 1986 with a teaching position in Kuwait. He taught kindergarten through 12th grade before taking a school administration role in 1988. He served as a high school principal in Cairo, Egypt from 1991 to 1995, before taking a graduate assistant position at the University of Bath. In 2005, Dr. Cowlishaw received the Dr. Charles Aimar Educational Leadership Award. Dr. Cowlishaw earned his B.Ed. from the University of Reading (UK), his M.Ed. from the University of Leeds (UK), his Ed.S. from The Citadel (S.C.) and his Ed.D. from South Carolina State University. He also served as a Visiting Fellow at the Klingenstein Center at Columbia University (N.Y.).
November 18, 2015
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM What are the things that you need to think about to achieve the long-term goal of Financial freedom?
How do you prevent the deal killers?
These and other questions will be addressed in John's talk at the next MBC meeting.
John joined H.B. Cantrell & Co. in 1992 after graduating from East Carolina University with a Finance Degree. John has learned the agency business from the ground up, beginning with personal lines, life, health, disability and commercial insurance. In 1995 he completed the Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) designation.
November 19, 2015
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM We will be meeting on Thursday November 19th at Harry's Grill and Tavern- 2127 Ayrsley Town Blvd, Ste 103 from 5-7pm. Gene Bodycott has graciously offered to pay for lunch and you will be on your own for any alcoholic beverages. This is the perfect opportunity to get together outside of the breakfast meeting setting. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact myself or Bill Linger- bill@drlinger.com
December 2, 2015
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Please join us for the next meeting where our very own Debby Millhouse will be speaking about Goal Setting for 2016. Goal setting for 2016 – Set up for a big year!
Debby Millhouse is the Owner and Chief Executive Officer of CEO Inc. She has been honored as one of the Top 50 Most Influential Women by The Mecklenburg Times, inducted into the Business Leader Hall of Fame as one of the top entrepreneurs in the Charlotte area, and given the Women in Business Achievement Award winner by the Charlotte Business Journal. She is a Certified Staffing Professional (CSP) as designated by the American Staffing Association, Certified Personnel Consultant (CPC) and Certified Temporary Staffing Specialist (CTS) as designated by the National Association of Personnel Services. Her vast experience includes executive management, sales/marketing, human resources, engineering, accounting technology and administrative/office support functions. Ms. Millhouse’s reputation as a savvy and highly ethical business woman resulted in CEO Inc. being honored with the Charlotte Ethics in Business Award, Charlotte Best Places to Work Award, and recognized as one of the top 50 diversity-owned businesses in the state of North Carolina.
December 10, 2015
, 6:00 PM - 10:30 PM You and your guest are cordially invited to attend the
2015 Annual MBC Holiday Party
This annual event is the ideal opportunity to get to know your fellow members and their families in a more intimate setting. Join us at MBC Member, Greg Davis' home while enjoying cocktails and an amazing catered buffet by Best Impressions. Dress is business casual. If you are a new member, you definitely don't want to miss this event! Thursday, December 10th, 2015 6:00pm-10:30pm Where: Greg Davis' Home at 1805 Mecklenburg Avenue. For Google Map Directions click here.
December 16, 2015
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM We hope to see everyone for our Annual Champagne Breakfast on Wednesday December 16th. At this meeting we will have a deluxe breakfast catered by Byron’s with Champagne and Orange Juice. It has been a tremendous year of accomplishments, great membership and wonderful connections. We will be toasting the New Year, giving recognition to those who have served as our MBC Board Members and we will also be announcing and welcoming the new MBC Board for 2016. This event is a great opportunity to give recognition where it is due and also preview upcoming events at MBC.
January 6, 2016
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM It all started back in 2008 during America’s real estate downturn, when founder, David Campbell, had the notion to use shipping containers as a form of temporary and mobile real estate. A few months later, in a field in Charlotte, NC, Boxman Studios bought a decommissioned container with the dream of becoming the first company in the world to specialize in the design, manufacture, and deployment of customized shipping containers for commercial use. And do it totally turnkey. It was clear from the outset that the concept of creating cool and sustainable environments out of shipping containers was going to be big. Really big.
Since then, Boxman Studios modified shipping containers for use as everything from traveling immersion experiences to interactive villages.
January 20, 2016
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Pete grew up on Lake Norman after his parents moved to the area from New Jersey. Pete attended Campbell University where he received a BBA and MBA with a focus on Trust Management and Financial Planning.
Pete has dedicated his career to partnering with employers to help their employees be able to retire with dignity. Pete brings vast knowledge and background to help them understand their plan from different aspects. He learned early that the good deeds of others help you more that you can do by yourself and he brings this attitude to all employee meetings. He has represented a bank’s employee benefit department, been a financial advisor who build his business around qualified plans, a Third Party Administrator (TPA) were he received administration background to assist with proper plan design, and has worked with two different national retirement plan providers in client development.
Pete is committed to continuing education and has earned his Accredited Investment Fiduciary (AIF®) designation in 2005 and Chartered Retirement Plan Specialist (CRPS®) in 2008 which represents a thorough knowledge of and ability to apply the fiduciary practices and recommend implementation techniques that can be executed into well-structured, company-appropriate retirement programs.
Pete and is wife, Jessica live in Charlotte and are members of Uptown Church. They enjoy traveling with their dog, Macy, to the beaches of South Carolina and the mountains of North Carolina. Pete is involved with The Charlotte Benefits Forum, Metrolina Business Council, and Lake Norman Yacht Club where he grew up as a junior sailor and today an active sailboat racer. He has sailed across the Gulf Stream to the Abaco’s on a 31 foot sailboat several times. He currently serves on the boards of the Lake Norman Yacht Club and Lake Norman Keelboat Council.
Pete is a published author of the book “Navigating The Best Attributes Of A Successful Employee Retirement Program.”
February 3, 2016
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Alec Hoffman is the sales manager of individual and small group markets. He has been in this position for about 2 years and with BCBSNC for almost 6 years. Before his current position, he was a health care reform advisor for BCBSNC travelling the state assisting members and non members understand how ACA would affect them and before that he was an Individual sales rep.
Previous to BCBSNC, Alec worked for a small advanced materials company that is based out Houston. His focus was marketing and outreach. Alec studied studied Environmental Sciences at UNC Charlotte and has been in the Triangle for 10-11 years.
February 11, 2016
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM We will be meeting on Thursday, February 11th from 5-7 at Craft Growler Shop 1320 S Church St suite #100 This event is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC social budget but is the perfect opportunity to get together outside of the breakfast meeting setting. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact myself or Marcus Schuster - drs@schusterchiro.com
February 17, 2016
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM ~~Stacey Brown Randall has one focus in life. To help business owners avoid business failure. She knows – she’s been there, done that and got the t-shirt. What Stacey learned when her first business failed – and through years of watching successful business owners - is now what is making all the difference with her current business’ success. And she is sharing all of her secrets. Her online programs and live coaching provide a blueprint to follow to take control of your business by increasing sales through “sticky” clients and creating a strategy to unleash a referral explosion in your business. Stacey is a business growth accelerator…with a focus on helping solo-preneurs, micro-small business owners and people on commission make more money and find more time. Stacey is a three-time entrepreneur, certified productivity and time efficiency coach, has a background in sales and marketing, is an adjunct professor, and an aspiring author. Stacey received her Master’s in Organizational Communication and is married with two kids, a 7-year-old son and 5-year-old daughter. She and her husband also welcomed the newest member to their family as they have the privilege of raising their 8-year-old nephew.
March 2, 2016
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Ronald P. Townsend, a native of Charlotte, North Carolina, served in the United States Navy for 31 years. He was commissioned in September 1982, designated a Naval Aviator in 1984, and attained the rank of Captain in 2004. He retired from active duty service in 2013. Ron was a carrier-based combat strike-fighter pilot for the majority of his Navy career. As sea, he completed four operational flying tours in A-6E Intruder and FA-18 Hornet squadrons, comprising six deployments on four different aircraft carriers. He commanded Strike-Fighter Squadron 22 from May 2000 to September 2001. Other operational tours included assignments as Navigator, USS ENTERPRISE, and as Operations Officer, Strike Force Training Atlantic. Ashore, from September 2005 to September 2008, Ron commanded Naval Air Station Lemoore, California, the Navy’s master jet base for its west coast Hornet fleet of 300 aircraft. In that capacity, he supported 15 squadrons and 20,000 personnel, directing a 400-person staff, executing $830M in budgetary authority, and managing $12 billion dollars of infrastructure. Other shore assignments included a tour as an Experimental Test Pilot at the Naval Air Test Center in Patuxent River, Maryland, and a tour at the United States Special Operations Command in Tampa, Florida, as Chief of the Network Operations Branch. In his final tour, Ron was privileged to shape and execute U.S. policy and engagement in Chile, an important regional partner, as the most senior U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) diplomat in country, working directly for the Ambassador in the U.S. Embassy in Santiago as the U.S. Defense and Naval Attaché from June 2010 to June 2013. Ron returned to Charlotte following his retirement in late 2013 and is currently Vice President and Director, Client Services, for Foundation For The Carolinas, a nonprofit community foundation. Ron has been married for more than 34 years to his high school sweetheart, the former Renee Latour, also of Charlotte, North Carolina. They have two children, Steven, an architect in New York City, and Jessica, a speech therapist in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.
March 10, 2016
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM We will be meeting on Thursday, March 10th from 5-7 at
Craft Growler Shop 1320 S Church St suite #100 Charlotte, NC 28203 (980) 207-3716 http://craftgrowlershop.com/ This event is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC social budget but is the perfect opportunity to get together outside of the breakfast meeting setting. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact myself or Marcus Schuster - drs@schusterchiro.com
March 16, 2016
, 7:30 AM - 8:30 AM In my career as a salesman, sales trainer, and business development expert, I have had the incredible opportunity to work in and assist others in many different business venues. I am fortunate enough to have found an incredible opportunity that allows me to utilize my past business skills.
I have founded Owl Remodeling along with my good friend and we specifically named our company Owl Remodeling in honor of our local charity: Carolina Raptor Center and began giving back to the CRC. We specialize in Roof Replacements, Roof Repairs, Windows, Siding and Radiant Barrier Systems. We bring consistent quality and attention to detail, whether it is a multi-million dollar Townhome Complex or repairing a small leak in your home roofing system.
Along my way, I've always been pro-active in taking care of myself: physically and mentally and that led me to make dietary changes which eventually led to going to a Vegan aka Plant Based Diet in 2011. I was not your "typical vegan" as most people described me and that actually helped me give information to others on being Vegan and then after seeing the need to provide information to others, I created: Www.VeganTourGuide.com to be a great source.
April 6, 2016
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Ged Doughton is a 1979 graduate of the University of North Carolina. From 1976-1979 he played for coach Dean Smith. During those years the Tar Heels finished first in the regular season each season, won 2 ACC tournaments and also played in the national championship in 1977. Ged finished his career as a valuable reserve, part-time starter and captain of the team. For the past 37 years, Ged has worked in the financial world building relationships with individuals and corporations. He currently serves as the Senior Director of Major Gifts at UNC Charlotte. Married with 3 grown daughters and 3 grandchildren, Ged will share reflections on life and business lessons learned from Coach Smith
April 14, 2016
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM We will be meeting on Thursday April 14th at Brazwells 1627 Montford Dr, Charlotte, NC 28209
This event is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC social budget but is the perfect opportunity to get together outside of the breakfast meeting setting. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact myself or Marcus Schuster - drs@schusterchiro.com
April 20, 2016
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Michelle Hamilton will be speaking to MBC on the subject of Music in our Community: The impact of music and the arts on us as individuals and as business people.
For 25 years Michelle Hamilton has worked as a development officer experiencing success in annual fund strategies, endowment campaigns, special events, marketing & PR, and volunteer management. Michelle has spent most of her career in arts organizations including: the Houston Symphony, Dayton Philharmonic and the Arts Council of Fort Worth and Tarrant County. Today, Michelle is Vice President of Development for the Charlotte Symphony, where she oversees the orchestra’s efforts in individual giving, major gifts, corporate & foundation giving, representing more than $5 million in contributed income annually. Prior to joining the Charlotte Symphony, Michelle served as Chief Advancement Officer for Crisis Assistance Ministry in Charlotte, an agency working to prevent homelessness and preserve dignity for Mecklenburg County individuals and families facing financial crisis. Michelle is immediate past president of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Charlotte Chapter. Michelle is also a member of the Board of Directors of the Symphony Guild of Charlotte, serves on the Committee on Directorship for AFP International and is an active volunteer at Charlotte Chamber of Commerce, Institute for Philanthropic Leadership, Providence Day School and St. Gabriel Catholic Church. Michelle has presented on an array of topics at local, statewide and international meetings and conferences. She is an accomplished facilitator, having led board retreats and orientations for a non-profit boards in Fort Worth and Charlotte. In 2013, Michelle was recognized by AFP Charlotte as Outstanding Professional Fundraising Executive. She is a Certified Fundraising Executive and holds a B.A. in Communications from the University of Louisiana. Michelle is married and the mother of one son.
May 4, 2016
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM This presentation will describe alcoholism and addiction and discuss their effects on our community in terms of consequences and costs. Workplace problems associated with impaired employees will be examined. Solutions will be discussed with an emphasis on helping employees while saving employers money.
Charles Odell has worked in the field of alcoholism and drug addiction treatment since 1983. Mr. Odell is the Chief Executive Officer of the Dilworth Center where he has worked since 1995. The Dilworth Center is a private, non-profit organization providing intensive outpatient, alcoholism and addiction treatment programs for adults, young adults and adolescents. The Dilworth Center also provides individualized programs for pilots, dentists, nurses and lawyers.
Mr. Odell received a Bachelor of Arts from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and a Master of Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He is Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist. Mr. Odell serves on the Advisory Board of the Jonnie McLeod Institute on Substance Abuse at UNC-Charlotte and is also an Adjunct Instructor at UNC-Chapel Hill. He is married to Sydney, and they have two sons, Alex and Andy.
May 12, 2016
, 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM We will be meeting on Thursday May, 12th at Workman's Friend 1531 Central Ave, Charlotte, NC 28205
This event is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC social budget but is the perfect opportunity to get together outside of the breakfast meeting setting. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact myself or Marcus Schuster - drs@schusterchiro.com
May 18, 2016
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM MBC's own David Erdman will be speaking about “The Ten Commandments of Marriage” which is a PowerPoint show sharing lessons he has learned as a lawyer dealing with divorces. Spouses are welcome to attend this presentation! Please send an email to isra@technicallyinspired.com if you plan on bringing your spouse.
About David:
David Erdman was born on the Fourth of July at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.
He grew up in Bridgeton, North Carolina near New Bern.
He attended Duke University on an Angier B. Duke Scholarship
and was the first graduate of Duke’s Biomedical Engineering program. He
is now a member of the Board of Visitors for the Duke Engineering School.
He went to Georgetown University Law School where he was elected National President
of the Law Student Division of the American Bar Association.
In 1973, he worked on the staff of the U.S. Senate “Watergate” investigation.
David moved to Charlotte in 1976. He heads the law firm of Erdman and Hockfield LLP.
David has been recognized eight times including 2016 by
Business North Carolina Magazine as one of North Carolina’s “Legal Elite”
in the field of Family Law.
Business Leader Magazine named David one of Charlotte’s 50 Top Entrepreneurs
because of his innovative uses of technology in the practice of law.
In 2011 North Carolina Lawyers Weekly newspaper named him one of the state’s 25
“Leaders in the Law”.
In 1999, David was unanimously appointed to the Charlotte City Council to fill an
At-large seat.
David is a member of the Historic Landmarks Commission of Mecklenburg County.
He is a frequent lecturer, having delivered over 200 presentations about
the History, Geography and Future of Charlotte to audiences totaling over 12,000 people.
He is a frequent media commentator on Charlotte history.
David is married to Lynn Erdman, CEO of the Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric &
Neonatal Nurses. One of their daughters is a nurse in Greenville, SC, and the other is a teacher
in New York City.
June 1, 2016
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Scott grew up as a chess-playing Legomaniac with just enough ADD to keep things interesting. He was that 9-year old kid that played chess for an entire summer and conquered Legos before they were pre-defined sets based on movie themes.
Oddly enough that translated into becoming President of the family printing business. As President, Scott has been able to satisfy his need to build things by initiating and negotiating three commercial printing acquisitions and leading the charge on starting a fourth, the customer engagement platform Beanstalk Data.
After a successful exit from Beanstalk Data in February of 2016 (acquired by Heartland Payment Systems) it was time to take everything learned over the years and apply it towards creating a new adventure - Epio Data.
Scoreboard now reads - Four companies purchased, Two companies started from scratch and one successful exit.
Scott has been married to Kelly Nowokunski for 19 years and has three boys - Jake (17), Adam(15) and Cody (12)
He will be discussing his journey with Beanstalk Data - Everything from why they started it to why they sold the company 8 years later and what's next.
June 9, 2016
, 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM We will be meeting on Thursday June 9th at Treehouse Whiskey and Fork at 4423 Sharon Road, Charlotte, NC 28211
This event is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC social budget but is the perfect opportunity to get together outside of the breakfast meeting setting. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact myself or Marcus Schuster - drs@schusterchiro.com
June 15, 2016
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Sue Compitello is a certified nutritionist who has been in the health and wellness field for over 24 years, owning and operating health clubs for 17 years of those. She is also a nutritional health educator with Total Nutrition Technology working with individuals along with corporate wellness in the Charlotte and surrounding areas. Diets do not work, or we would all be thin. Sue educates individuals based on their lean body mass and metabolic rate, how to fuel muscle so that they lose body fat weight and inches that are maintainable. Sue will explain all the "wrong information" that is out there and teach you why it's never too late to start to get better with age. Prevention and fuel! Nutrition is 80% of it!"
PRESENTATION WILL COVER:
* What you and your employees need to FUEL and FOCUS daily
* Why diets do not work and all the "myths"
* Why you need protein, carbs and fats (we all burn each differently)
* Why stress causes weight gain
* How to revive your metabolism and get better with age
July 20, 2016
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM JC Mahoney is a native Charlottean, a second generation Charlotte Realtor® and a lifelong resident of the Myers Park, Dilworth, and SouthPark communities. JC graduated from the University of Colorado at Boulder with a bachelor’s degree in U.S. history. Prior to starting a career in real estate at Dickens Mitchener, JC launched four successful startup businesses in the diverse industries of apparel, food service, technology and health care. He is married to Janelle and has 3 boys age 11-15.
JC will be discussing Brief entrepreneurial history Firm info Charlotte growth statistics Charlotte Real Estate market information. Buyer and Seller information.
August 3, 2016
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Mitchell Kearney celebrates his twenty fifth year in MBC with a presentation of his "Greatest Hits" as a Commercial Advertising Photographer & Fine Art Image Maker. Mitchell will share in words and pictures how he and his partner Connie chose to move to Charlotte from NYC, with stories about his most insightful portraits, the architectural projects he is best known for, and the miracle in every moment.
August 11, 2016
, 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM We will be meeting on Thursday August 11th at Brazwells at 5pm 1627 Montford Dr, Charlotte, NC 28209
This event is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC social budget but is the perfect opportunity to get together outside of the breakfast meeting setting. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact myself or Marcus Schuster - drs@schusterchiro.com
August 17, 2016
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM This week's event will take place at the Sonitrol Office at 815 Wood Ridge Center Dr, Charlotte, NC 28217
Sonitrol Security is a full service electronic security firm providing products and services in Burglary, Fire, Access Control and Camera surveillance. Sonitrol will not only install and service the products we sell but more importantly monitor these systems through our own UL approved Central Station monitoring center located in Charlotte. We are one of 90 franchisees of the Sonitrol Corporation, also a part of the Stanley Black and Decker company, serving markets throughout North America and Europe. Being a franchisee within a larger organization provides us with a vast level of product and technical support allowing Sonitrol to remain current with the many technological advances within our industry. Our franchise operates out of two offices in Charlotte and Greenville, SC and serves primarily the commercial and industrial markets located throughout NC and Upstate SC.
Topic to Discuss briefly
The changing technological advances in the communication industry (telephone, internet, voice over IP) and the affect this is having in detecting and verifying criminal and life safety related activities. We will also take those interested on a tour through the Central Station.
September 7, 2016
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Any Charlotte audio/video enthusiast around in the late 1980’s to 2001 fondly recalls Audio Video Systems, the premier A/V store of that time. It was founded and operated by David Stollmack, who grew it into one of the largest and most respected consumer electronics businesses in the nation.
David graduated from UNC Chapel Hill and for the last ten years has been on the board for the Professional Audio/Video Retailers Association.
At this meeting David’s topic will be:
“YOU ARE NOT THE ONLY ONE WHO DOESN’T UNDERSTAND TECHNOLOGY” He will ask the following questions:
1. How many of you have three or more remote controls sitting on your coffee
table? Can everyone in your home (including baby sitters, grandparents,
etc.) easily operate your TV and other electronics?
2. Have you thought about “cutting the cord” and do you know the pros and
cons?
3. Does your Wi-Fi allow you to effectively access the Internet from all your
main areas in your home? Are your Wi-Fi and all wiring good enough to
handle your current and future needs?
4. Would you like to be able to entertain outside with music you could operate
from your smart device?
5. What do you need to know to make a good choice when buying your next TV?
6. How can you use new technology wireless speakers and your smart device to hear music from any room in your home?
September 15, 2016
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM We will be meeting on Thursday September 15th at Brazwells at 5pm 1627 Montford Dr, Charlotte, NC 28209
This event is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC social budget but is the perfect opportunity to get together outside of the breakfast meeting setting. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact myself or Marcus Schuster - drs@schusterchiro.com
September 16, 2016
, 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM We will be meeting at Belle Acres at 12:00pm for a Social Lunch at 3033 South Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28209
This event is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC social budget but is the perfect opportunity to get together outside of the breakfast meeting setting.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact myself or Marcus Schuster - drs@schusterchiro.com
September 21, 2016
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Lynn Douthett was appointed District Director of the U.S. Small Business Administration's North Carolina District Office in June 2010. She oversees a staff of 15 employees and the delivery of agency programs such as financial assistance, management counseling and business development throughout the state of North Carolina, including two alternate worksite areas (Asheville and Wilmington).
Lynn joined SBA in 1997. She managed the SBA's National Call Center in Charlotte, NC and moved to Florida as the Assistant District Director for Marketing and Outreach. Shortly after returning to North Carolina in 2003, she was named Deputy District Director.
Prior to joining SBA, Lynn worked for 15 years in the banking industry as a regional manager with several banks completing her career with Branch Banking and Trust. As a small business owner she established and marketed the company, Unfauxgettable in Charlotte, NC. The business provided specialty-painting services for commercial and residential clients.
Lynn is a graduate of University of Pittsburgh with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. She has pursued graduate studies in finance at Fairfield University in Connecticut and at Queens University in North Carolina.
October 5, 2016
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Sheriff Irwin Carmichael was raised on a dairy farm in the rural Mecklenburg County neighborhood of Long Creek. Married to his wife Ronda in 1991, he is a proud husband and father. As a family business owner, community leader and friend to many, he had a lifetime of preparation to ultimately become Sheriff of Mecklenburg County.
At the early age of 10, Carmichael recognized the importance of understanding safety and respect for others. His dream as a youth was to become a sheriff’s deputy, fireman AND karate master and with determination, he would set his life-long pursuit of these dreams into action. Still a young man, he decided to begin karate lessons and through hard work, practice and training, displayed the skills necessary to earn his first Black Belt in less than four years. Later, he achieved a master level, ninth degree Black Belt in Kempo Karate.  Carmichael would go on to put his knowledge, love, and expertise for karate into building the family owned business known today as Martial Arts Training Institute (M.A.T.I.). The business has since grown to eight Charlotte regional locations. In 1986, Carmichael joined both the Charlotte Fire Department and the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office. He would earn the rank of Engineer at CFD while working his way to Captain at MCSO, prior to becoming elected Sheriff. Through the integration of knowledge in human behavior, skills in the martial arts, ability to strategically plan and grow a business to meet consumer needs, as well as his unique expertise in law enforcement and public safety, Carmichael developed many personal safety, awareness and crime prevention programs. As a Deputy Sheriff, Carmichael presented these programs to schools, organizations, businesses, and groups nationally. In an attempt to further educate the public on crime prevention and self-defense, he wrote the book, “Women’s Awareness Response”, and produced a child safety and abduction video entitled "Kid's Awareness Response". Through his crime prevention programs, Carmichael proved his ability to gather and analyze the information needed from various segments of a community which include criminals, community leaders, families, friends and acquaintances. Using this information, he successfully developed programs to help prevent future crimes and empower people in our community with the tools and skills needed to help themselves as well as others. He is a member of the American Jail Association (AJA) and American Correctional Association (ACA), among a number of other Law Enforcement/Criminal Justice organizations. As a highly respected North Carolina Certified Instructor, Carmichael has taught defensive tactics and ground fighting techniques at the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office Training Academy, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Academy, as well as other law enforcement agencies, including the North Carolina Justice Academy and the North Carolina Highway Patrol Training Center. With news of his unique expertise and success reaching international departments, he has instructed the Australian Federal Police Department, as well. Carmichael’s personality, knowledge and devotion to his community has made it possible to impact almost every segment of our society through children’s karate classes, women’s self-defense classes, community and organization crime prevention classes and law enforcement ground fighting seminars. Now, as Sheriff of Mecklenburg County, Carmichael successfully implements the tools learned through life experiences, in an effort to continually advance the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office while serving to help keep the community safe.
October 19, 2016
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM J.Hilburn is the world’s fastest-growing luxury menswear brand in the country, offering high quality custom and ready to wear apparel and accessories. Our garments are made from the finest Italian fabrics and hand-constructed for every customer.
She will share what J Hilburn is all about and include wardrobe tips and suggestions, About Heidi Drummond:
She has lived in Charlotte for 25 years, she moved here from New England in 1991.
She began her career as a wardrobe stylist for J Hilburn 4 years ago.
Here is what Heidi has to say about what she does at J. Hilburn:
I help men take their wardrobes to the next level and save them time & money.
I help men express their PERSONAL STYLE, CHARACTER and CLASS. Every man deserves his own personal stylist. I appreciate that 'fit' is more than a size and that a man is more than his measurements. STYLE MEANS NOTHING UNLESS IT'S PERSONAL.
I do 2 things as a J Hilburn Personal Stylist – I build a Loyal Client base and I teach others to do the same. I’m looking for Leaders throughout the US to become J.Hilburn Personal Stylists. CUSTOM FIT ~ ITALIAN FABRICS ~ EXCEPTIONAL VALUE We offer Custom Luxury Menswear without breaking the bank. If you like quality clothes but not the price or inconvenience of shopping, let's talk. Your style is your signature. It tells the world who you are and how you live your life.? J.Hilburn has been featured in GQ, Esquire, Men's Journal, and INC magazine.
October 27, 2016
, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM Please RSVP if you would like to attend this event. The MBC Board will cover the cost of this event excluding ammo. Marcus Schuster has additional details regarding this event. 704-654-7177
October 27 2-4PM
Estimated attendance @ 15
· Up to 7 gun rentals – but, you can bring your own (BYOG?)
· Full Auto rental
· Eye and ear protection
· Classroom
· Targets (5 per shooter)
· Safety officer
Location:
Carolina Sporting Arms
8055 South Blvd
Charlotte, NC 28273
November 2, 2016
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM At this meeting we will hear from Craig Dunn and receive a tour at Carolina Offiice Solutions. The meeting will be held onsite at 1301 Westinghouse Blvd #A, Charlotte, NC 28273
Craig is the managing partner and co-founder of Carolina Office Solutions, a company that liquidates, warehouses, and re-sells used office furniture. They have enabled our client base to make sensible, logical, and cost effective decisions on their office furniture (new and used). You won't want to miss this meeting.
November 16, 2016
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Ann Clausen will provide an update on Federal and NC tax laws and a discussion on what is possibly coming in the future.
S. ANN CLAUSEN, CPA CGMA
Over thirty- five years ago, Ann decided she wanted to be a CPA and help business owners reach their goals whether it was to grow their businesses, protect their assets or eventually retire. As a result, her business and tax experience is now extensive and includes professional service firms, manufacturing, retail, real estate, restaurants, and construction as well as high wealth tax planning for business owners. Her experience also includes extensive tax preparation and planning services in combination with business consulting. She works with business owners to utilize the federal and state tax laws to reduce their tax liabilities with techniques such as cost segregation studies and like-kind exchanges. Ann also represents her clients to settle federal and state tax issues. As a member of the community, Ann is involved in local organizations such as Women Executives, Metrolina Business Council as Treasure for 6 years, Go Red for Women, NCACPA local board, and various charitable organizations. She also is frequently a guest speaker on tax issues for local and national organizations.
Ann graduated with honors from Averett University, located in Danville, VA, obtaining a degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting. She then attended Radford University’s Graduate School of Business and Economics in Radford, VA. Ann holds her CPA certification in North Carolina and the AICPA certification CGMA.
December 7, 2016
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bill finished his courses at Palm Beach State College in Dental Technology in 1989 and then moved to Charlotte. Bill worked in three different dental labs before launching Sunbelt Dental Lab. In 2015 Bill re-launched as Dental Technology 21 to denote change in his laboratory's business model to reflect 21st century technological advancements.
Bill is a Certified Dental Technician, current member of the National Board for Certification, the National Association of Dental Laboratories, the North Carolina Dental Lab Association, and the Seattle Study Club. He has also been a Key Opinion Leader for several dental manufacturers over the past 15 years. His laboratory specializes in fixed dental restorations with an emphasis on Implant borne prosthetics.
Bill has been married for 11 years to his wife Terrell and they have two children, Abbey (20) and Jeramiah (6)
Topic: Transition from the analog world of Dentistry to Digital Dental Technology
December 8, 2016
, 6:00 PM - 10:30 PM You and your guest are cordially invited to attend the
2016 Annual MBC Holiday Party
This annual event is the ideal opportunity to get to know your fellow members and their families in a more intimate setting. Join us at MBC Member, Greg Davis' home while enjoying cocktails and an amazing catered buffet by Best Impressions. Dress is business casual. If you are a new member, you definitely don't want to miss this event! Thursday, December 8th, 2016 6:00pm-10:30pm Where: Greg Davis' Home at 1805 Mecklenburg Avenue. For Google Map Directions click here.
December 21, 2016
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM We hope to see everyone for our Annual Champagne Breakfast on Wednesday December 21st. At this meeting we will have a deluxe breakfast catered by Byron’s with Champagne and Orange Juice. It has been a tremendous year of accomplishments, great membership and wonderful connections. We will be toasting the New Year, giving recognition to those who have served as our MBC Board Members and we will also be announcing and welcoming the new MBC Board for 2017. This event is a great opportunity to give recognition where it is due and also preview upcoming events at MBC.
January 4, 2017
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Debby Millhouse will lead us through setting up your vision and goals and make 2017 the best year yet.
She will sprinkle in a few things learned in 2016 and challenge the leaders to live fearlessly in 2017! Debby Millhouse is the Owner and Chief Executive Officer of CEO Inc. She has been honored as one of the Top 50 Most Influential Women by The Mecklenburg Times, inducted into the Business Leader Hall of Fame as one of the top entrepreneurs in the Charlotte area, and given the Women in Business Achievement Award winner by the Charlotte Business Journal. She is a Certified Staffing Professional (CSP) as designated by the American Staffing Association, Certified Personnel Consultant (CPC) and Certified Temporary Staffing Specialist (CTS) as designated by the National Association of Personnel Services. Her vast experience includes executive management, sales/marketing, human resources, engineering, accounting technology and administrative/office support functions. Ms. Millhouse’s reputation as a savvy and highly ethical business woman resulted in CEO Inc. being honored with the Charlotte Ethics in Business Award, Charlotte Best Places to Work Award, and recognized as one of the top 50 diversity-owned businesses in the state of North Carolina.
January 12, 2017
, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Please join us for Happy Hour on Thursday, January 12 from 6pm-9pm. We will be meeting at
The Turnhouse Griille
1600 E Woodlawn Road
Parktown Village Shopping Center
Located "street level" in the front of the complex, facing Woodlawn (if you're standing in front of Chick Fil A, it is 100 feet to your LEFT)
Like all MBC Happy hour events, this event is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
January 18, 2017
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM We are meeting at the men’s facility (Rebound) of CRM, located at 907 W. 1st Street, Clt NC 28202. We are located right off Cedar Street, second building on the left. Parking is available on the street or in our parking lot or between the second and third building. There will be a parking sign out.
We will meet and have the breakfast in our dining hall. There will be a receptionist in the lobby to direct all guests.
Charlotte Rescue Mission is a 120 day residential Christian substance abuse recovery program for men and women. It is open to anyone over 18 years old.
Come see how you can become involved in CRM. Bring men’s clothing: gently used shirts, pants, shoes, suits, jackets, New underwear, socks. School supplies – pens, pencils, notebook paper, binders, high lighters
February 1, 2017
, 7:00 AM - 8:45 AM We hope every one of you will attend Jeffrey Gitomer's presentation on Feb 1st entitled: What's Now, What's New, and What's Next.
He is celebrating his 25th year with MBC and this is a presentation you won't want to miss.
We encourage you to bring a co-worker in your salesforce who would benefit from this presentation. If you are bringing a guest, please email me.
Here's Jeffrey's promo! See you Wednesday!
February 9, 2017
, 6:00 PM - 9:30 PM Join us this Thursday, February 9th for Bowling, drinks and fun, starting at 6:00. We are all going to go have fun in Ayrsley at Gene Bodycott's "Playhouse" at the Piedmont Social House.
Piedmont Social House
2135 -C Ayrsley Town Blvd Charlotte, NC 28273 This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC socials, this event is pay as you go. For more information contact Mike Knight 704-299-5635 or mike@owlroofing.com
See you then!
February 15, 2017
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Richard Sterling joined Merrill Lynch in 2014. As a Financial Advisor, Richard delivers the capabilities of the vast resources of Merrill Lynch to help his clients and their families achieve their financial goals at every stage of life. At Merrill Lynch he focuses on helping individuals, businesses and families by providing long-term investment and financial advisory strategies.
Richard’s goal is to simplify what many people find to be a complicated and emotional yet vitally essential part of their life - their finances. He uses a defined process to help them achieve their financial goals. First, he strives to understand what is important to them in their lives (and why) and from that he helps them create and prioritize their financial goals. Next, he conducts a thorough assessment of their financial situation and also acknowledges their perspectives towards investing. After that, he creates a customized plan that is clearly explained and once implemented he helps clients periodically monitor and adjust their portfolios. Richard endeavors to differentiate himself with products, accountability and outstanding service to clients and their families. Richard graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a B.S. in Pharmacy and received his MBA from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. When not assisting clients, Richard enjoys spending time with his family in Charlotte, keeping fit and improving his photography skills.
March 1, 2017
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 PM Sean officially joined the LNCS staff in November 2012. He has worked extensively with the youth and adult sailing programs as a volunteer over the prior three years. He sailed single-handed Lasers on the US Naval Academy's Intercollegiate Sailing Team and has become a competitive Flying Scot sailor here on Lake Norman.
March 2, 2017
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Join us Thursday, March 2nd for a wine tasting, hosted by Josh Villapando, starting at 5:00. We are all going to go have fun at Assorted Table Wine Shoppe, at the 7th Street Public Market.
Assorted Table Wine Shoppe
224 E 7th St. Charlotte, NC 28202 This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC socials, this event is pay as you go. For more information contact Mike Knight 704-299-5635 or mike@owlroofing.com
See you then!
March 10, 2017
, 11:45 AM - 1:45 PM Join us Friday, March 10th for lunch, starting at 11:45. We are all going to go have fun at Belle Acres Club:
Belle Acres Golf & Country Club
3303 South Blvd.
Charlotte, NC 29209
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC socials, this event is pay as you go. For more information contact Mike Knight 704-299-5635 or mike@owlroofing.com
See you then!
March 15, 2017
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM PRESENTATION LINK: http://www.charlottembc.com/uploads/MBC031517ErdmanMy_LifeAndLessons.pdf
David Erdman was born on the Fourth of July at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. He grew up in Bridgeton, North Carolina near New Bern.
He attended Duke University on an Angier B. Duke Scholarship and was the first graduate of Duke’s Biomedical Engineering program. He is now a member of the Board of Visitors for the Duke Engineering School. He went to Georgetown University Law School where he was elected National President of the Law Student Division of the American Bar Association. In 1973, he worked on the staff of the U.S. Senate “Watergate” investigation. David moved to Charlotte in 1976. He heads the law firm of Erdman and Hockfield LLP. David has been recognized nine times including 2017 by Business North Carolina Magazine as one of North Carolina’s “Legal Elite” in the field of Family Law. Business Leader Magazine named David one of Charlotte’s 50 Top Entrepreneurs citing his innovative uses of technology in the practice of law. In 2011 North Carolina Lawyers Weekly newspaper named him one of the state’s 25 “Leaders in the Law”. In 1999, David was unanimously appointed to the Charlotte City Council to fill an At-large seat. David recently completed six years as a member of the Historic Landmarks Commission of Mecklenburg County. He is a frequent lecturer, having delivered over 225 presentations about the History, Geography and Future of Charlotte to audiences totaling over 14,000 people. He is a frequent media commentator on Charlotte history. David is married to Lynn Erdman, CEO of the Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric & Neonatal Nurses. One of their daughters is a nurse in Greenville, SC, and the other is a teacher in New York City.
March 30, 2017
, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Please join us for Happy Hour on Thursday, March 30th from 6pm-9pm. We will be meeting at:
The Turnhouse Grille
1600 E Woodlawn Road
Parktown Village Shopping Center
Located "street level" in the front of the complex, facing Woodlawn (if you're standing in front of Chick Fil A, it is 100 feet to your LEFT)
Like all MBC Happy hour events, this event is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
April 5, 2017
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Ken Fleming built his career over two decades managing people, processes, and projects in large corporations. He now owns a home care company. Find out why he made this change, learn what home care is and the different options for your senior family members, and also hear about the successes and challenges he has experienced as a small business owner in his first year.
April 19, 2017
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Success demands a leader, willing to take prudent risks, apply doctrine and set the example. You never know when a leadership challenge will appear so you must be ready today. David will show how studying the art and science of leadership can prepare you for the challenge. The presentation consists of two vignettes based on actual challenges. What can we learn from these examples of military leadership that will help us succeed in business?
April 27, 2017
, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Please join us for Happy Hour this Thursday, April 27th from 6pm-9pm. We will be meeting at:
Sugar Creek Brewing Company
215 Southside Drive
Charlotte, NC 28217 This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC Happy hour events, this event is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
May 3, 2017
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Elyse Dashew, Vice-Chairperson of the CMS Board of Education and at-large member of the Board since 2015, has been an advocate for Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools for many years.
She will discuss the the leadership lessons learned and challenges faced while navigating difficult issues on the school board.
May 11, 2017
, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM Please RSVP if you would like to play golf at Carolina Golf Club on Thursday, May 11th at 11:00. This event will be "play your own ball". The cost is $75.00 and payment can be made at the clubhouse.
The address is 2415 Old Steele Creek Road, Charlotte, NC 28208.
This event is limited to 8 people so please RSVP to John Cantrell if you will be in attendance, and if you have any questions regarding this event please contact John Cantrell - jc9000@gmail.com or call 704-905-9000.
May 17, 2017
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Elizabeth Outten joined Novant Health in 2014 as the Government Relations Manager, in Cary, NC, where her background as a Regional Liaison for the US Senate & as a Legislative Aid for Alaska Representative Bob Buch, as well as her experience as Grassroots Manager for the American Cancer Society, help her build relations amongst Novant, state and federal elected officials, community leaders, and business partners.
She holds a BA in Sociology and Economic Justice from UNC-Chapel Hill, and is involved in her community, volunteering for several organizations including the Junior League of Raleigh, SAFEchild NC, and Alliance Medical Ministry.
June 7, 2017
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Hyong Yi’s 100 Love Notes first launched on the streets of Charlotte, North Carolina on November 21, 2015. To honor his wife, Catherine Zanga, on the one-year anniversary of her death from ovarian cancer, Hyong and his children gave strangers 100 handwritten love notes, notes that chronicled Hyong and Catherine’s life together.
NBC and ABC Nightly News, Good Morning America, and The Today Show covered the story as well as many other news sources. Yi realized that his notes had greater purpose, and he commissioned 17 artists to illustrate them.
June 21, 2017
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM John Boyer is the President and CEO of the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, which opened in 2010.
June 23, 2017
, 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM We have changed our location to The Liberty Restaurant.
Join us Friday, June 23rd for lunch, starting at 11:30, at Liberty Restaurant. Please RSVP as soon as you can so we can get an accurate headcount.
The Liberty Restaurant
1812 South Blvd.
Charlotte, NC 28203
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC socials, this event is pay as you go. For more information contact Mike Knight 704-299-5635 or mike@owlroofing.com
See you then!
June 24, 2017
, 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM Join us for a family picnic at Lake Norman Yacht Club on Saturday, June 24th from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm!
Bring your boats, swim suits, towels and sunscreen
Grills will be fired up at 12:30
Hamburgers/Hot Dogs and all fixings BYOB Update: $5 per head - RSVP and pay Pete Marriott by June 21 Lake Norman Yacht Club
297 Yacht Rd Mooresville , NC 28117 When you enter the property turn to the Left to go to the Pavilion If coming by water: After Chanel Marker D-7 on the West side of the lake Questions Pete Marriott 704-562-6720
July 19, 2017
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Come experience "Speed Networking" at its finest! As a member of MBC, we want you to know other members you might have only briefly interacted with, & this is the perfect chance to learn a little bit more about the people you see twice a month!
You will spend 10-15 minutes with each table group discussing your company - then rotate. In order to both receive and provide the best possible experience for everyone, please come with answers to the following questions about you and your company:
What does your company do?
Who is your target market (what do you consider an ideal client)?
What is a good referral to you?
What are your goals as a member of MBC?
August 2, 2017
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Joshua Villapando has been working in the fine food and wine industry for about 30 years! He has a respected reputation among his customers and peers as he’s successfully managed several of Charlotte’s greatest mom-n-pop food establishments. Common Market. Reid's Fine Foods. ilios(noche. Pasta & Provisions. He currently owns and operates uptown Charlotte's premier retail fine wine venue, Assorted Table Wine Shoppe.
“With wine and people I have two goals: 1.) demystify the wines so that one experiments without alienation, and 2.) stress the artistry, history, science, and passion of wine and food pairings.”
IMPORTANT PARKING CHANGES:
Please note that beginning with this breakfast meeting, parking at Byron's South End will now be in the new Design Center Parking Deck, located adjacent to The Design Center, next to the Atrium
Building at the corner of Hawkins St. and Doggett St. (at 240 Doggett St.), behind Byron's. Parking in the deck will be free of charge with ticket validation. Keep the ticket you receive upon entering the garage, and bring it with you into Byron's so staff can validate your ticket.
There is handicap parking in the deck, as well two handicap spaces out front free of charge, and pay-to-park handicap parking in the surface lot on Worthington Ave.
The surface lot where MBC has previously parked is now paid parking, and Byron's is unable to validate or reimburse for parking in that lot or other surface parking, so be sure to use the new deck.
August 16, 2017
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Join us as Andy Dinkin presents an update on Charlotte's commercial real estate market.
August 17, 2017
, 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Please join us for Happy Hour Thursday, August 17th at 5pm. We will be meeting at:
Brazwells Pub Montford
1627 Montford Drive
Charlotte, NC 28209 This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC Happy hour events, this event is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
See you then!
August 25, 2017
, 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM Join us Friday, August 25th for lunch, starting at 11:30, at Liberty Restaurant. Please RSVP as soon as you can so we can get an accurate headcount.
The Liberty Restaurant
1812 South Blvd.
Charlotte, NC 28203
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC socials, this event is pay as you go. For more information contact Mike Knight 704-299-5635 or mike@owlroofing.com
See you then!
September 6, 2017
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM We will hear short introductions from a few of our newer members.
September 20, 2017
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Kenny Smith is a republican who is currently running in the 2017 election for Mayor, while also serving his second term on Charlotte City Council. He will speak about his experience in Charlotte politics, as a community leader, and as a commercial real estate broker.
September 21, 2017
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Please join us for Happy Hour Thursday, September 21st at 5pm. We will be meeting at:
Brazwells Pub Montford
1627 Montford Drive
Charlotte, NC 28209 This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC Happy hour events, this event is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
See you then!
September 22, 2017
, 11:00 AM - 1:30 PM Join us Friday, September 22nd for lunch, starting at 11:30, at Liberty Restaurant. Please RSVP as soon as you can so we can get an accurate headcount.
The Liberty Restaurant
1812 South Blvd.
Charlotte, NC 28203
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC socials, this event is pay as you go. For more information contact Mike Knight 704-299-5635 or mike@owlroofing.com
See you then!
October 4, 2017
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 PM It Only Takes About 20 years To Become An Overnight Success: Here’s What I Wish I Knew Earlier In That Process
Bob Salvin will present a candid strategic look at growing a company from a small start up to a large branded company. Content will include identifying strategic opportunities, overcoming obstacles, and understanding how to compete with large companies in ways that they cannot compete with you.
Learning Objectives:
Attendees should be able to leave with 5 or 6 good ideas that they can apply to their companies immediately, along with clarity on a "bigger picture” potential direction for their company.
October 18, 2017
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Vi Lyles is a democrat who is running in the 2017 election for Mayor. She has been a Charlotte community leader & has worked for the City of Charlotte for almost 30 years, currently serving her second term on Charlotte City Council, as mayor pro tem. Vi Lyles also owns a consulting firm that provides a platform for government and nonprofit organisations to work together to create successful programs, policies, & procedures.
October 19, 2017
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Please join us for Happy Hour Thursday, September 21st at 5pm. We will be meeting at:
Brazwells Pub Montford
1627 Montford Drive
Charlotte, NC 28209 This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC Happy hour events, this event is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
See you then!
October 27, 2017
, 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM Join us Friday, September 22nd for lunch, starting at 11:30, at Liberty Restaurant. Please RSVP as soon as you can so we can get an accurate headcount.
The Liberty Restaurant
1812 South Blvd.
Charlotte, NC 28203
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC socials, this event is pay as you go. For more information contact Mike Knight 704-299-5635 or mike@owlroofing.com
See you then!
November 1, 2017
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Scott Hirsch will speak about his experiences, and on the issues with over-promising and under-delivering.
November 15, 2017
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Adam Bridgers is an attorney in the Fisher Phillips Charlotte office. He represents businesses across the United States faced with employment and privacy-related issues. Adam is a Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP/US) and advises clients on data security laws, data breaches, privacy policies, and workplace monitoring. In addition to privacy, he regularly practices in the areas of employment litigation, labor relations, and wage and hour law.
Adam has experience trying cases in various areas of the law. He has litigated cases at both the state and federal levels, including several complex cases, such as collective wage and hour actions, unfair competition claims, and trade secret disputes.
Adam strives to help businesses resolve problems before they reach court. However, he is not afraid to employ his courtroom skills if needed. He also counsels clients on preventive measures that help ensure disputes do not arise in the first place.
He has represented clients before courts in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Ohio, and South Carolina. His clients and adversaries range from small businesses to Fortune 100 companies and span across numerous industries, including banking, construction, energy, hospitality, and healthcare.
Adam keeps abreast of changes in the law both nationally and in North Carolina. He ensures that his clients receive the benefit of this knowledge through legal alerts and client presentations. He has also been called upon by media outlets to comment on and explain changes in the law, which affect the workplace.
Adam received the honor of being listed in North Carolina Super Lawyers - Rising Stars in 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017. He was also awarded the Charlotte Business Journal’s 2017 Emerging Leader Energy Leadership Award.
During law school, Adam was Editor-in-Chief of the Charlotte Law Review. He also gained invaluable legal experience as a summer law clerk to U.S. District Court Judge Frank D. Whitney and as a judicial extern to U.S. Magistrate Judge David Keesler, both judges in the Western District of North Carolina.
Adam attends Tuckaseege Baptist Church and enjoys serving his community. He was appointed by the Governor of North Carolina to serve on the Board of Chiropractic Examiners and is a member of the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition’s North Carolina Advisory Committee. Adam has served on the Board of Directors of many local non-profit organizations, including the Law and Community Foundation and the Lupus Foundation of America, North Carolina Chapter.
November 16, 2017
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Please join us for Happy Hour Thursday, September 21st at 5pm. We will be meeting at:
Brazwells Pub Montford
1627 Montford Drive Charlotte, NC 28209 This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC Happy hour events, this event is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
See you then!
December 6, 2017
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM
Scott Weatherup | C&D Landscaping
I grew up in Southern California going to the beach 4-6 days a week. After a few years of absent parenting, bad luck and some very poor decisions, I dropped out of Pacifica High School as a senior with about 8 weeks left. I moved to Connecticut at 20, where I completed high school after which I started college as a 21 year old freshman and graduated from Sacred Heart University in 1994 with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, and concentrations in marketing and management. Within two weeks of graduation I moved to Charlotte, got married and started a new career path working for Graybar Electric as a sales representative.
My two boys Colton and Dylan, (the C & D of the business) are two of the reason why in 2000 I left the corporate world, hung up my suit and tie and went back to school for horticulture. I now hold degrees in Landscape Design, Landscape Management and Landscape Maintenance. I am currently a North Carolina Certified Plants Professional and Certified Landscape Contractor. I am involved with the North Carolina Landscapers Association and North Carolina Green Industry Council. This included a large role in the Mecklenburg County Water Conservation Initiative back in 2008-2009 during our last major drought helping to initiate Irrigation Contractor Licenses and “Smart Controllers” that use satellite links to measure rain fall amounts and adjusts watering times accordingly.
I'll discuss the how and why we are now taking toward moving into the lawn care and commercial business. I'll discuss the hurdles that I have encountered and questions that I had to ask myself when taking this step.
December 7, 2017
, 6:00 PM - 10:30 PM (The corrected date is on Thursday the 7th)
You and your guest are cordially invited to attend the 2017 Annual MBC Holiday Party
This annual event is the ideal opportunity to get to know your fellow members and their families in a more intimate setting. Join us at MBC Member, Marc Mataya's home while enjoying cocktails and an amazing catered buffet by Best Impressions. Dress is business casual. If you are a new member, you definitely don't want to miss this event! Thursday, December 7th, 2017 6:00pm-10:30pm Marc Mataya's Home 2215 Hassell Place, Charlotte, NC 28209
(behind Park Road Shopping Center)
For Google Map Directions click here.
December 20, 2017
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM We hope to see everyone for our Annual Champagne Breakfast on Wednesday, December 20th. At this meeting, we will have a deluxe breakfast catered by Byron’s with Champagne and Orange Juice. It has been a tremendous year of accomplishments, great membership, and wonderful connections. We will be toasting the New Year, giving recognition to those who have served as our MBC Board Members and announcing and welcoming the new MBC Board for 2018. We will also be awarding the Donald Haack Community Involvement Award to a very special organization. This event is a great opportunity to give recognition where it is due and also preview upcoming events at MBC.
December 25, 2017
, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
January 3, 2018
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM  amanda@godshallcolgate.com(803)782-0904, Ext. 102 Amanda joined Godshall Colgate, LLC in 2006. Amanda earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting, Magna Cum Laude, Phi Beta Kappa, from the Honors College at the University of South Carolina in 2003. She began her career in public accounting with Ernst & Young, LLP in Greenville, SC, and has over 14 years of experience serving clients. Amanda is licensed in South Carolina and North Carolina, and she provides accounting, tax compliance, and consulting services for both individual and business clients. Amanda is a member of the South Carolina Association of CPAs (SCACPA), the North Carolina Association of CPAs (NCACPA) and the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA). In 2015, Amanda was added to the list of 100 Influential People in Accounting throughout SCACPA's 100 year history. She was awarded the 2009 SCACPA Outstanding Young CPA Award and the 2011 SCACPA and AICPA Woman to Watch Award. Amanda was a founding member of the SCACPA Young CPA Leadership Cabinet, serving as chair of the Cabinet in 2009. As a member of the SCACPA Editorial Board, she contributed several informative articles published in the South Carolina CPA Report. Amanda was one of 30 CPAs selected from across the country to attend the 2010 AICPA Leadership Academy. She served as a member of the AICPA Young CPA Committee in 2011 and 2012. Amanda was a presenter at the AICPA Interchange Conference in St. Louis, MO, and has led various tax seminars throughout South Carolina. Community Involvement
January 17, 2018
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Debby Millhouse is the owner and CEO of CEO Inc. CEO Inc. is an award-winning, full-service recruitment and staffing firm, that for over 23 years has specialized in direct hire placement for senior-level sales, operational and management positions for plastics, composites, textiles and specialty chemical companies nationwide. CEO Inc. launched sister company Xcentri in 2014 to complement the rapid growth of its expanding service lines. Xcentri provides temporary staffing and direct hire placement services for accounting/finance, office support, legal support, engineering, call center/customer service, and non-clinical medical positions. CEO Inc. was named to the Inc.5000 “Fastest Growing Companies” List for 2016 and 2017. CEO Inc. has also been honored with the Charlotte Business Journal’s Best Places to Work Award for 4 consecutive years (2012-15) as well as their “50 Fastest Growing Companies” for 2015. Ms. Millhouse has been honored as one of the Top 50 Most Influential Women by The Mecklenburg Times, inducted into the Business Leader Hall of Fame as one of the top entrepreneurs in the Charlotte area, and given the Women in Business Achievement Award winner by the Charlotte Business Journal.
February 7, 2018
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 PM Dianna is the Executive Director of Charlotte B-Cycle, responsible for managing and growing the bike share system in Charlotte's urban core. Honored as one of the 50 most influential women in Charlotte, she regularly collaborates with sponsors, city leaders and biking advocates and is a forward-thinking champion focused on Charlotte's goal of becoming a "City of Bikes." She has served on the Board of Directors for the North American Bikeshare Association (NABSA) and was recently elected to serve as President. In addition, she owns Charlotte NC Tours, Greenville Glides, Bike the Rabbit, Kansas City Segway Tours and Chattanooga Segway & Bike. A native of Albuquerque, New Mexico,
Dianna holds a B.S. in Mathematics from Grinnell College and a Masters in Operations Research and Statistics from NC State University.
Remember, we will be meeting at Triple C Barrel Room at 2832 Griffith St. which is about a mile from Byrons.
February 15, 2018
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Thursday the 15th, tonight! At Braswell's at 5:00
Enjoy!
February 21, 2018
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM We will be meeting at Triple C Barrel Room at 2832 Griffith Street which is about a mile from Byron's.
Please RSVP so we'll have an accurate head count.
March 7, 2018
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Come prepared for a fun filled morning! Maybe you will play a game on our life size operation or spend some time on some old school video games (free play!) Get a personalized street sign or take your chances on our brand new one person Escape Room. It’s sure to be an MBC morning like no other!
Fun photos will be send under separate cover.
100 Forsyth Hall Drive
Suite 100 E
Charlotte, NC 28273
Be sure to RSVP so we'll have an acurate headcount.
March 21, 2018
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Debby Millhouse is the owner and CEO of CEO Inc. CEO Inc. is an award-winning, full-service recruitment and staffing firm that for over 23 years has specialized in direct hire placement for senior-level sales, operational and management positions for plastics, composites, textiles and specialty chemical companies nationwide. CEO Inc. launched sister company Xcentri in 2014 to complement the rapid growth of its expanding service lines. Xcentri provides temporary staffing and direct hire placement services for accounting/finance, office support, legal support, engineering, call center/customer service, and non-clinical medical positions. CEO Inc. was named to the Inc.5000 “Fastest Growing Companies” List for 2016 and 2017. CEO Inc. has also been honored with the Charlotte Business Journal’s Best Places to Work Award for 4 consecutive years (2012-15) as well as their “50 Fastest Growing Companies” for 2015. Ms. Millhouse has been honored as one of the Top 50 Most Influential Women by The Mecklenburg Times, inducted into the Business Leader Hall of Fame as one of the top entrepreneurs in the Charlotte area, and given the Women in Business Achievement Award winner by the Charlotte Business Journal.
NOTE: We will be back at Byron's South End located at 101 W. Worthington Ave, Charlotte, 28203. Parking is at the Design Center Parking Garage at 240 Doggett St., on the corner of Hawkins St. and Doggett St. Parking tickets from the parking garage can be brought inside for validation by Byron's. Please note: you will enter Byron's through Thompkins Alley. The 'back door' entrance (down the ramp) will no longer be available to us. I'll send the arial map under separate cover.
April 4, 2018
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Ever wondered what a video production company goes through when planning to tell a story for a client? Our presenters today are joining us from Spiracle Media here in Charlotte. Spiracle is a video content company that specializes in storytelling. They have built their company on former journalists who bring a creative and cinematic approach to every project. They have had the pleasure of working with some of biggest brands across the country.
Jarod Latch is a Co-Founder and Director of Creative content who is approaching the 20 year mark in broadcasting and digital media. He spent nearly ten years in television as a sports anchor and reporter before helping to launch Spiracle Media in 2011.
David Kernodle is a veteran journalist as well with his last stop coming at Spectrum News as a reporter. In his role as Director of Video Production and Services at Spiracle Media, he has been crucial in expanding the quality of storytelling and leading a growing team in the production department.
April 18, 2018
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM John Cantrell
Insurance 101, Strategic Thinking and Making a Difference
April 19, 2018
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Third Thursday Happy Hour at Brazwells on Monford
Please join us for Happy Hour Thursday, April 19th at 5pm. We will be meeting at:
Brazwells Pub Montford
1627 Montford Drive Charlotte, NC 28209 This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC Happy hour events, this event is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
See you then!
April 27, 2018
, 11:45 AM - 1:00 PM Join us for lunch on Friday, April 27th at 11:45.
The Liberty
1812 South Blvd
Charlotte, NC 28203
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC lunches, this pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
See you there!
May 2, 2018
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Finding your 2nd act, bootstrapping a business from scratch and lessons learned along the way!
Byron's South End
101 West Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
May 16, 2018
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Diane Restaino is the President of Joedance Film Festival. After earning a B.S. from Iowa State University, Diane spent 15 years as an executive in the broadcast industry. Diane has held board positions at the Episcopal School of Knoxville and the Family Advisory Council at the Levine Children’s Hospital. She is a current member of the Board of Ambassadors, Cancer Champions at Levine’s Children’s Hospital and Coalition Against Childhood Cancer.
Joedance Film Festival was founded by Diane and her family in 2010 in memory of their oldest son, Joe. They combined their family’s love of films with science of cancer research to create a very unique foundation. The mission of the foundation is to raise funds for rare pediatric cancer research at Levine Children’s Hospital. This year’s Joedance Film Festival, August 3-4, 2018 at the Charlotte Ballet in Uptown Charlotte, will mark the ninth year for the festival.
Under the leadership of Diane, $150,000 has been donated to Levine Children’s Hospital which has funded the following programs:
Diane and her husband, Mike Restaino have three sons; Joe, who passed away in 2010, and identical twins Tony and David. When Diane is not working on Joedance, she loves to travel with her family, and of course enjoys taking in a movie and going to the theater.
Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
May 17, 2018
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Third Thursday Happy Hour at Brazwells on Monford
Please join us for Happy Hour Thursday, May 17th at 5pm. We will be meeting at:
Brazwells Pub Montford
1627 Montford Drive Charlotte, NC 28209 This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC Happy hour events, this event is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
See you then!
May 25, 2018
, 11:45 AM - 1:15 PM Join us for lunch on Friday, May 25th at 11:45.
Leroy Fox
1616 Camden Rd.
Suite 150
Charlotte, NC 28203
Please RSVP by 5:00 pm on Thursday.
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC lunches, this pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
See you there!
June 6, 2018
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Walt Frye is a career financial services and technology executive with over 15 years of executive experience in large financial services and technology companies to include Merrill Lynch, Bank of America, Ally Financial and Fiserv.
Walt currently serves as a director, advisor, mentor, board member, volunteer and angel investor in organizations and companies within Charlotte’s thriving entrepreneurship ecosystem, with particular interest in FinTech.
In Oct 2017, Walt was appointed Executive Director for the Charlotte Regional Fund for Entrepreneurship (CRFE), which is the public-private partnership established to strengthen the entrepreneurship ecosystem in the Charlotte region. He most recently launched Innovate Charlotte, as the operating entity for the CRFE.
Walt’s corporate career has included years of engagement in developing and putting into practice, strategies involving innovation of products, solutions and business operations. At Fiserv, a Fortune 500 provider of financial technology solutions to financial institutions, Walt served as VP - Product Management, Program Director to the Chief Operating Officer and head of Planning and Governance for Enterprise Technology from 2012-2016. In these roles, he provided strategic and operational leadership for product development, strategic planning and project/portfolio management. Product lines under his responsibility generated over $300 million in annual revenue.
While at Ally Financial from 2009-2012, Walt served as Information Technology Executive for the Global Information Technology Group, where he led strategy, planning and governance.
Walt’s tenure with Bank of America originally brought him to Charlotte in 2002, during which time he served in numerous roles in innovation, new product development, market leadership in consumer banking and sales management in small business. These roles culminated in 2009, as SVP, Product Management, with responsibilities for new product development within the Card Services division, where his team helped to launch and manage the BankAmericard.
Walt was born in Rock Hill, SC and grew up in Columbia, where he attended public schools before graduating from the United States Military Academy at West Point. He is a decorated veteran, with over ten years of military service. Walt earned an MBA from Harvard Business School. He also holds a certificate in FinTech and Future Commerce from MIT, where he was rated a “Top 50” project contributor. Walt currently lives in Pineville, NC with Veronica his wonderful wife of over 28 years and their dog Cecil.
Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
June 20, 2018
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bob Peters is actually a Charlotte native which makes him as rare and as special as the libations you will find behind his bar. With strong southern roots, Bob has always enjoyed the art of dining and taking care of friends. He is well known for his creative palate as well as for his ability to entertain. Peters has won numerous awards including the 2015 Global Bartender of the Year for The Ritz-Carlton Corporation. He has been featured in an international culinary magazine as well as countless local and regional publications. In the spring of 2016, he accompanied some of the most elite chefs from Charlotte, NC to the coveted James Beard House in New York City to present a “Taste of Charlotte” dinner to the Big Apple’s food fanatics. In January 2017 and most recently in January 2018 Bob was a featured mixologist at the highly acclaimed Cayman Cookout food festival hosted by Eric Ripert, Jose Andres, and Anthony Bourdain, as well as the featured talent at the Charleston Wine & Food, and the Atlanta Food & Wine Festivals.
When you join Bob for a cocktail, be prepared to linger and let go of the reins. In no time, you will be carried away on a journey sure to delight the senses. Check him out in Charlotte North Carolina. You will be captivated by what you find and he?ll have the hootch ready. Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
June 21, 2018
, 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM Third Thursday Happy Hour at Brazwells on Monford
Please join us for Happy Hour Thursday, June 21st at 5pm. We will be meeting at:
Brazwells Pub Montford
1627 Montford Drive Charlotte, NC 28209 This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC Happy hour events, this event is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
See you then!
June 29, 2018
, 11:45 AM - 1:00 PM Join us for lunch on Friday, June 29th at 11:45.
Leroy Fox
1616 Camden Rd.
Suite 150
Charlotte, NC 28203
Please RSVP by 5:00 pm on Thursday.
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC lunches, this pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
See you there!
July 18, 2018
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Marty Conte is a second generation business owner who runs his family’s bottled water business, Diamond Springs Water. Born in Pittsburgh, PA, he has also lived in South Florida, Atlanta, GA and Richmond, VA, moving to Charlotte in 1997. No stranger to the Carolinas, Conte attended Clemson University from 1981 to 1986, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics and minoring in Social Sciences. Marty has worked in the family business for over 40 years and performed virtually every job in the business from sweeping floors to sales, delivery, operations, and now President and General Manager.
Over the last 28 years Diamond Springs has grown to become one of the largest independently owned Bottled Water Companies in America serving over 50,000 customers in The Carolinas and Virginia. A recognized brand in the South East and a reputation for excellent service and quality products have garnered the Family Business accolades over the years as one of the best run Bottled Water Companies in the Industry. The company offers many different types and sizes of bottled water along with water coolers, a full line office coffee service and point of use filtration equipment. An MBC member since 2003, and past President of the group Conte was the inaugural Recipient of the Metrolina Business Council’s Donald Haack Foundation Award for Excellence in Community Involvement. He is an active member of the Charlotte Business Community including the Charlotte Chamber, Hospitality and Tourism Association and the Charlotte Touchdown Club to name a few. He actively volunteers with the local chapters of the Muscular Dystrophy Association, the Make A Wish Foundation and the National MS Society along with supporting countless others through the family business. Recently Marty was asked to join the Board of the Charlotte Merchants Foundation, a local non-profit that grants money to Charlotte Charities that enrich and further the lives of children in our community. In his free time he smokes cigars, attends concerts and is a rabid sports fan. He is also a long standing member of the Italian Heritage Society, a group of Italian men who meet every other week for dinner and share stories of their Italian upbringings. A collector, he has been collecting celebrity and sports memorabilia and smoke-a-rama for the past 20 plus years and recently began acquiring single malt scotch and rare bourbon. In 2007 he married his beautiful wife Jodie along with her two children Zac and Taylor. He and his wife welcomed a daughter in law into the family last year when their son Zac married his fiancée Rebecca and are now anxiously awaiting their first grandchild due this December.
July 27, 2018
, 11:45 AM - 1:00 PM Join us for lunch on Friday, July 27th at 11:45.
Leroy Fox
1616 Camden Rd.
Suite 150
Charlotte, NC 28203
Please RSVP by 5:00 pm on Thursday.
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC lunches, this pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
See you there!
August 1, 2018
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Business owner for 29 years operating the following divisions:
Best Impressions Caterers
The Grill & Picnic Company
Byron’s South End
The Terrace At Cedar Hill
MBC member since 1989. Past President.
Mr. Byron’s foray into hospitality came at an early age working in the kitchen along side his mother and grandmother who were masters at the art of entertaining. He honed those skills working at several acclaimed restaurants and caterers in Charlotte and the Annapolis & DC areas. He founded Best Impressions Caterers in Charlotte, NC in 1989. Mr. Byron has assembled a hard working and dedicated team of event professionals producing many of Charlotte's finest special events. His personality shows in everything the business is built upon: exceptional customer service and the highest quality food. Mr. Byron has been an active member of the community, having served in leadership positions with various business, hospitality industry, and faith-based organizations. He shares a passion for sailing, cheering on the Panthers and Clemson Tigers with his wife, Beth and their two daughters, Chelsea and Madison.
***Business Address where next MBC meeting will be held:
2600 Youngblood St.
Charlotte, NC 28203
At the corner of Remount Rd and Youngblood St. between South Blvd and South Tryon St.
Please enter through front offices facing Youngblood St. Parking available in front of building and on-street parking on Youngblood St. Overflow parking in loading dock area, through delivery gate off Youngblood St.
August 15, 2018
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM David Stollmack and Barrie Clark have 65 years working experience in the field of audio/video design, sales and installation. David graduated from UNC Chapel Hill and Barrie has degrees in electrical and mechanical engineering. Both share a passion for making electronics easy and fun to use. They met at David’s company Audio Video Systems in the late 1990s.
Barrie and David will be updating MBC members with the latest information on 4K television, digital music options, home wifi networks, and a look at new options in the rapidly changing area of streaming TV. There are constant changes in this area that effects so many consumers.
As always they will be prepared to answer your questions in any area of home technology.
As many of you know David has been following Bruce Springsteen around the country for over 40 years and hopes to attend his 100th Springsteen concert when Bruce returns to touring next year.
Barrie is a huge fan of Star Trek, Star Wars and many other science fiction related movies. Barrie has also become very involved with his charity raising money for local children’s hospitals. If it not raining Barrie will bring his Ghostbusters car to the MBC meeting. In the meantime, you can check it out here: https://www.wcnc.com/article/news/features/those-most-in-need-of-positivity-are-calling-upon-these-ghostbusters/473963144
Bryon's South End
101 W Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
August 24, 2018
, 11:45 AM - 1:00 PM Join us for lunch on Friday, August 24th at 11:45.
Leroy Fox
1616 Camden Rd.
Suite 150
Charlotte, NC 28203
Please RSVP by 5:00 pm on Thursday.
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC lunches, this pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
See you there!
September 5, 2018
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Charlotte-Mecklenburg Housing Partnership, Inc. (The Housing Partnership) is a broad-based, private, nonprofit housing development and financial corporation organized to expand affordable and well-maintained housing within stable neighborhoods for low and moderate-income families in the City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County.
Byron's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
September 19, 2018
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Marc Mataya will be our speaker!
Byron's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
September 20, 2018
, 4:30 PM - 7:00 PM Join us at the Unknown Brewing Company for Happy Hour. Some drinks will be provided. There will be food available for purchase. Bring your significant other!
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
See you then!
Unknown Brewing Company
1327 S. Mint St.
Clt 28203
September 28, 2018
, 11:45 AM - 1:00 PM Join us for lunch Friday, Sept 28th at 11:45
Leroy Fox
1616 Camden Rd. Suite 150 Charlotte, NC 28203 Please RSVP by 5:00 pm on Thursday.
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC lunches, this pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
See you there!
October 3, 2018
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Richard Herd will be our speaker.
Byron's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
October 17, 2018
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Nick Hughes is a former French Foreign Legion Commando who worked around the world as a bodyguard for the rich and famous. His clients have included members of the Saudi Royal Family, the celebrated artist Peter Max, and too many rock bands to mention.
He is the author of the critically acclaimed "How To Be Your Own Bodyguard," has appeared on Spike TV's Deadliest Warrior, was a featured artist for Paladin Press, and is the Chief Instructor for Warriors Krav Maga, the Israeli military's unarmed combat system.
He is currently about to release his newest book entitled "ASPIRE Because SMART goals are dumb." Byron's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
November 7, 2018
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Dr. Kandi W. Deitemeyer began her tenure as the fourth president of Central Piedmont Community College in 2017. Dr. Deitemeyer came to Central Piedmont with an extensive and diverse background in community college administration. Her career has spanned 25 years in higher education, with 23 of those serving in community college systems in North Carolina, Kentucky and Florida.
As Central Piedmont’s top executive, she demonstrates the drive, talent and passion for its mission. Her principal leadership tenet is student success and transforming and improving lives. She brings a demonstrated focus on excellence, regional development and building collaborative relationships which impact opportunities for students and communities. “I believe everything we do at Central Piedmont Community College is life-changing,” Dr. Deitemeyer has said. “When someone asks me what I do, I typically reply, ‘I am in the life-transformation business.’ After 25 years in higher education, I’ve seen the impact our colleges have on individuals, families and communities. Central Piedmont is the hope many of our students are seeking. Hope of a better job, better wage, better life, and better opportunities for their family.” While her professional goal is leading the college in its efforts as a national leader in workforce development, Dr. Deitemeyer derives her personal joy from her faith and family – Gary, her husband of 27 years, and their amazing daughter, Zoe. Byron's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
November 15, 2018
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM November Social Thursday night at Assorted Wines at the 7th Street Station. Please invite a guest, hopefully a potential new member. First round is on MBC
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Don't let this late notice stop you from going to have a good time.
December 5, 2018
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM The speaker for our Dec 5th meeting will be our very own Richard Sterling.
Byron's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
December 6, 2018
, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM This year's party will be at the home of Greg and Briana Davis.
Please park on the street or at the church parking lot which is about a block away.
When you RSVP I need to know how many are coming so I'll have an accurate head count for the caterer.
You won't be able to tell me if you are bringing a guest via the regular RSVP so please shoot me a separate email to let me know.
1805 Mecklenburg Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28205
Come and enjoy!
December 19, 2018
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM There are still 30 of you who have not responded, please RSVP by noon on Monday so I can have an accurate head count for the caterer. Thanks!
We hope to see everyone at our Annual Champagne Breakfast. We will have a deluxe breakfast catered by Byron’s with Champagne and Orange Juice. It has been a tremendous year of accomplishments and wonderful connections so come celebrate.
We will be toasting the New Year, giving recognition to those who have served as our MBC Board Members and announcing and welcoming the new MBC Board for 2019. We will also be awarding the Donald Haack Community Involvement Award to a very special organization.
This event is a great opportunity to give recognition where it is due and also preview upcoming events at MBC. If you are planning to bring a guest, please email me separately to let me know. I'll need an accurate head count for the caterer. (annette.metcalf@xcentri.com)
Please RSVP no later than noon on Monday. It's very important to RSVP so we can be sure to have enough food!
Byron's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
December 20, 2018
, 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM Third Thursday Happy Hour at Brazwells on Monford
Please join us for Happy Hour Thursday, December 20 at 5pm. We will be meeting at:
Brazwells Pub Montford
1627 Montford Drive Charlotte, NC 28209 This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC Happy hour events, this event is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
See you then!
January 16, 2019
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Most of you know Debby Millhouse and have heard her speak before. She will be speaking on January 16th on "2018 lessons to inspire success in 2019!"
For those of you who don’t know her, Debby Millhouse is the owner and CEO of CEO Inc. CEO Inc. is an award-winning, full-service recruitment and staffing firm that for over 25 years has specialized in direct hire placement for senior-level sales, operational and management positions for plastics, composites, textiles and specialty chemical companies nationwide. In 2015, CEO Inc. renamed the healthcare group, Go Healthcare Staffing Inc. and refocused on Travel Nurses. CEO Inc. launched sister company Xcentri in 2014 to complement the rapid growth of its expanding service lines. Xcentri provides temporary staffing and direct hire placement services for legal, accounting/finance, office support, inside sales, call center/customer service, and non-clinical medical positions. CEO Inc. and Debby have received many awards over the years, such as the Inc.5000 “Fastest Growing Companies”, Charlotte Business Journal’s Best Places to Work Award, Women in Business Achievement Award and “50 Fastest Growing Companies, Mecklenburg Times - Top 50 Most Influential, the Business Leader Hall of Fame - top entrepreneurs in the Charlotte area.
Please RSVP by noon on Monday, Jan 14th.
Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
January 25, 2019
, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Join us for lunch this Friday at Midwood Smokehouse just behind the Park Road Shopping Center.
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC lunches, this pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
540 Brandywine Rd.
Charlotte, NC 28209
Please RSVP by Thursday noon! Thanks!
February 6, 2019
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Gitomer Defined (git-o-mer) n. 1. a creative, on-the-edge, writer and speaker whose expertise on sales, customer loyalty, and personal development is world renowned. 2. known for presentations, seminars and keynote addresses that are funny, insightful, and in your face. 3. real world. 4. off the wall. 5. on the money. 6. gives audiences information they can take out in the street one minute after the seminar is over and turn it into money. He is the ruling King of Sales. See also: salesman.
AUTHOR. Jeffrey Gitomer is the author of The New York Times best sellers The Sales Bible, The Little Red Book of Selling, The Little Black Book of Connections, and The Little Gold Book of YES! Attitude. Most of his books have been number one best sellers on Amazon.com, including Customer Satisfaction is Worthless, Customer Loyalty is Priceless, The Patterson Principles of Selling, The Little Red Book of Sales Answers, The Little Green Book of Getting Your Way, The Little Platinum Book of Cha-Ching!, The Little Teal Book of Trust, Social BOOM!, The Little Book of Leadership, and the 21.5 Unbreakable Laws of Selling. Jeffrey’s books have appeared on major best-seller lists more than 500 times and have sold millions of copies worldwide.
OVER 75 PRESENTATIONS A YEAR. Jeffrey gives public and corporate seminars, runs annual sales meetings, and conducts live and virtual training programs on selling, YES! Attitude, trust, customer loyalty, and personal development.
BIG CORPORATE CUSTOMERS. Jeffrey's customers include Coca-Cola, US Foodservice, Caterpillar, BMW, Verizon, MacGregor Golf, Hilton, General Motors, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, AmeriPride, NCR, IBM, Comcast Cable, Time Warner, Liberty Mutual, Principal Financial, Wells Fargo Bank, BlueCross BlueShield, Carlsberg, Mutual of Omaha, AC Neilsen, Northwestern Mutual, Church Mutual Insurance, MetLife, Sports Authority, GlaxoSmithKline, The New York Post, and hundreds of others.
IN FRONT OF MILLIONS OF READERS EVERY WEEK. Jeffrey's syndicated column, Sales Moves, appears in scores of business journals and newspapers in the United States and Europe, and is read by more than four million people every week. ON THE INTERNET. Jeffrey’s WOW website, Gitomer.com, gets thousands of hits per week from readers and seminar attendees. His state-of-the-art presence on the web and e-commerce ability has set the standard among peers, and has won huge praise and acceptance from customers. Jeffrey's blog, salesblog.com is another free resource for sales and personal development information.
BUSINESS SOCIAL MEDIA. Keep up with Jeffrey and his social media presence on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube. New ideas, events, and special offers are posted daily. With more than 1 million social media followers, and more than four million YouTube views, Jeffrey has built a groundswell of attraction and engagement.
GITOMER CERTIFIED ADVISORS. Jeffrey licenses his classroom workshop training and virtual training to sales professionals around the globe. For more information, please visit GitomerCertifiedAdvisors.com.
ONLINE SALES AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT TRAINING. Gitomer Learning Academy is all Jeffrey, all the time. Gitomer Learning Academy contains amazing interactive video courses based on Jeffrey’s thirteen best-selling books with interactive questions, 25+ webinars, and hours of Jeffrey’s real-world practical sales information, strategies, and ideas. It starts with a skills based sales assessment and then offers an interactive certification course. This amazing sales tool will rate your sales abilities and explain your customized opportunities for sales knowledge growth. The online academy is available 24/7/365 on your any device. It is continually updated as Jeffrey records new video lessons and content. It’s ongoing sales motivation, sales reinforcement, and personal inspiration with the ability to track, measure, and monitor progress and achievement. The minute you read, watch, or listen to any of Jeffrey’s content, you can put it into immediate action and use it on your next sales call. Gitomer Learning Academy is innovative. Gitomer Learning Academy is effective. Go to GitomerLearningAcademy.com for ongoing sales motivation and personal inspiration.
SALES CAFFEINE. Jeffrey's weekly e-zine, Sales Caffeine, is a sales wake-up call delivered every Tuesday morning to more than 250,000 subscribers, free of charge. Sales Caffeine allows Jeffrey to communicate valuable sales information, strategies, and answers to sales professionals on a timely basis. You can subscribe at www.salescaffeine.com.
SELL OR DIE PODCAST. Jeffrey Gitomer and Jennifer Gluckow share their sales and personal development knowledge in their weekly podcast, Sell or Die. In today's world of constant change there is still one constant, you're either selling or dying. Tune in on iTunes or your favorite podcast app – just search for Sell or Die.
AWARD FOR PRESENTATION EXCELLENCE. In 1997, Jeffrey was awarded the designation of Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) by the National Speakers Association. The CSP award has been given fewer than 500 times in the past 25 years and is the association's highest earned award.
SPEAKER HALL OF FAME. In August, 2008, Jeffrey was inducted into the National Speaker Association’s Speaker Hall of Fame. The designation, CPAE (Counsel of Peers Award for Excellence), honors professional speakers who have reached the top echelon of performance excellence. Each candidate must demonstrate mastery in seven categories: originality of material, uniqueness of style, experience, delivery, image, professionalism, and communication. To date, 191 of the world's greatest speakers have been inducted including Ronald Reagan, Art Linkletter, Colin Powell, Norman Vincent Peale, Earl Nightingale, and Zig Ziglar.
Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
Please RSVP by noon on Monday, February 4th.
February 20, 2019
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Come hear a panel discussion with our three newest members - David Sammons, Jack Joyce and Silas Garrison led by Pete Marriott.
Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
Please RSVP by noon on Monday, February 18th.
February 21, 2019
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM The Turnhouse Grille
1600 E. Woodlawn Rd.
Suite 100
Charlotte, NC 28209
The Turnhouse Grille is a laid-back sport with modern decor offering elevated American plates, cocktails and wine.
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. We look forward to seeing you there!
Please RSVP by noon on the 20th!
February 22, 2019
, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Join us for lunch this Friday at Midwood Smokehouse just behind the Park Road Shopping Center.
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC lunches, this pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
540 Brandywine Rd.
Charlotte, NC 28209
Please RSVP by Thursday noon! Thanks!
March 6, 2019
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM As CEO & Founding Regional Dean of Northeastern University-Charlotte, Dr. Richards was the first regional executive for Northeastern University’s Global Network that now boasts campuses in Ft. Bragg, Seattle, Silicon Valley and Toronto. In it’s 5 years of operation, the Charlotte campus has grown to offer more than 40 master’s and doctoral degrees, accelerated bachelors, numerous graduate level certificates and non-credit programs and serves students across the Southeast Region including North and South Carolina, Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia.
Dr. Richards is a recognized community leader serving three terms on the Charlotte Chamber’s Executive Committee where she is currently Chair of Talent Development. She also is currently on the boards of Apparo, Charlotte Regional Partnership, Charlotte Chamber, Smart Start of Mecklenburg County, United Way’s Women United Cabinet and serves as as mentor to a WINGS scholar. She recently completed consecutive board terms with MeckEd and Women Executives where she held multiple leadership posts including president.
Dr. Richards has been honored in Smart CEO’s inaugural class of Charlotte’s top female CEOs, twice by the Mecklenburg Times as one of Charlotte’s 50 Most Influential Women and was named 2014 Woman of the Year. The Charlotte Business Journal has recognized her as a 40 Under Forty leader and a Top 25 Women in Business. A frequent presenter and speaker, she has also served as guest host for Carolina Business Review.
Dr. Richards holds a bachelor’s degree in Speech Communication, a master’s degree in Student Affairs in Higher Education, and Ph.D. in Leadership for Higher Education. She and her husband of 22 years are proud parents of two children.
Please RSVP by Monday at noon!
Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
March 20, 2019
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Troy is a Professional golfer from Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, now based in Charlotte. His goal is to be playing on the lucrative US PGA TOUR by 2020 or sooner. His story and list of professional achievements are listed below.
Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
Troy's Journey
We all have big moments in life, which give us choices to make; my first one came in 1996. I was playing amateur golf at high level in Australia but still not much direction, and then things changed quickly.
I was driving home from working at a golf club, when a car ran a red light and crossed my path. On arrival the paramedics relayed to base they would have a fatality, and that was me! They had the “jaws of life” to remove me from the car but amazingly I didn’t break a bone and got out of it with only severe internal bleeding.
This however changed my outlook on golf. I wanted to turn pro and really show my talent so I trained hard and turned Professional in 2000 by qualifying for the Asian and also the Australia PGA Tours in the same year, this was a huge achievement that not many players reach.
I played for several years on my credit card, as I didn’t have sponsors. I had mixed success as I had 20% focus on golf and 80% on finding sponsors. I played these tours through 2000-2007 when that year was another big moment in my life.
I had been working hard and finally been noticed by a company that wanted to sponsor 2 players on the Asian Tour, my time had arrived! I signed the contract
and for the first time played with 100% focus on my golf.
In November 2007 I was playing the India Open in Delhi and getting ready for a practice round in my room when my suitcase was on a chair and as I pulled my clothes from the case a picture fell off the wall smashing over my head and when it shattered a piece of glass went into my wrist cutting the artery in my hand.
After having the injury fixed and completely healed, my golf world changed. I lost my status on the Asian Tour as they didn’t give me a medical exemption and even bigger, I lost my sponsorship. I was devastated! For the first time I had the money to play stress free and was showing my true potential, then it was gone with a freak accident in a heartbeat.
I left the golf world for a couple of years to regroup and come back more determined than ever. I played in Australia from 2008-2010 then went and helped my older brother on the Japan Golf Tour. I helped him in to the top 100 in the world. I stopped in 2013, as I was so hungry to play and knew I could beat him so I wanted to get back out on Tour. I started teaching and was successful, while at the same time started playing small events in which I was winning and contending in every event.
In 2015 I decided I wanted to go to the U.S and get on the Web.com Tour. Over the next year I met the woman of my dreams and she happened to be American. I had some people believe in my golf from Australia and they got me a ticket and said GO!! My game is better than it’s ever been. I’m strong, healthy and hitting the ball longer than ever and know I have the game to make it to the Tour so the decision was “Lets do it”.
We moved to Charlotte, NC and I went to the Latin America PGA Tour qualifying and gained status for the season. I also won the first Web.com qualifier I played and played the first event. I played 5 more qualifiers missing 3 by 1 shot and a few shots in the others. We play 100 guys for 6 spots in these qualifiers so I was succeeding.
Due to not having a sponsor, I didn’t have the financial ability to play any more events on the Latin America PGA Tour, which was tough. Having 12 starts and not playing was hard mentally as my mind was back to 80% trying to find sponsorship.
My wife is so amazing and supportive of my dreams and tells me everyday to keep grinding and things will change, so I keep fighting and believe I will get to the Tour no matter the struggles.
We have a beautiful 6 month old daughter, our first child and I am driven even more to show her the meaning of hard work, drive, and be the best you can be!
I am so excited about the future and working hard every day to get better and reach my true potential.
Professional Achievements:
2018 Raleigh web qualifier (68) missed by 1
2017 PGA Tour Latin America member T10 @ PGA Tour Latin America Q school Web.com qualifying Winner web.com qualifier for Bogota Colombia (65) -7 Nashville web.com qualifier (66) -6 Web qualifier (66) -6 Web qualifier (68) -4 California web qualifier (67) -5 Winner qualifier Jamaica Classic (65) -7 Dominican Open (69)
2016 Web.com qualifying Raleigh (68) -4
2015 Head coach @ Golf Central Brisbane Moved to the U.S to continue my career on Tour
2014 Wiiner Indooroopilly Pro am (-5 ) Winner Oxley Pro am ( -4 ) Full Member Australasian Tour
2013 Full Member Australasian Tour PGA Golf Coach 2012 Full Member Australasian Tour PGA Golf Coach
2011 Full Member Australasian Tour PGA Golf Coach
2010 Full Member Australasian Tour PGA Golf Coach
2009 T4 Lae Morobe Open, Papua New Guinea ( -10 )
2008 Competed Australian Open, first event returning from injury
2007 Full Asian tour membership Top 25 finish in China Classic prior to injury
2006 Full Asian tour membership Low career round -9, Tahiti Open ( 63 ) 5th Lae Morobe open, Papua New Guinea ( -13 ) International Tour Member of Korean tour top 15 Q school
2005 2 nd Von Nida Tour Qld Masters ( -17 ) 4th Lae open, Papua New Guinea ( 10 ) 2nd Nichigo Open (hope island) ( -6 )
2004 Winner PNG open, Papua New Guinea ( -4 ) 2nd place Lae open
March 21, 2019
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Assorted Table Wine Shop
Inside 7th Street Public Market
224 E. 7th St.
Charlotte, NC 28202
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. We look forward to seeing you there!
March 29, 2019
, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Join us for lunch this Friday at Hawkers Asian Street Food.
Hawkers is located at South End's Design Center and is an Orlando-based Asian restaurant inspired by hawker stalls of southeast Asia.
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC lunches, this pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
April 3, 2019
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Braxton Winston, a democrat, was elected in 2017 as an at-large member of Charlotte City Council and is his serving his first term.
He recently began working at the Levine Museum of the New South as their Community Connections Manager, engaging the community by capturing Charlotte's history in interactive and narrative ways. Winston is also a stagehand and grip and a member of Charlotte's thriving sports television and entertainment production community. He is a proud member of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees Union.
Winston is also an influential citizen-journalist, producing stories not covered by tradition media outlets and employing new models of citizen engagement.
Winston holds a bachelor's degree in anthropology from Davidson College, where he was a two-time Letterman on the football team.
Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
April 17, 2019
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM MEGAN RILEY IS AN OVER ENTHUSIASTIC ROAMER AND HEAD WANDERER AT BIG FAT WORLD TOURS.
Megan loves to travel, a quick survey of that LOVE calculates to 44 months, 1320 days & 30,000 hours of traveling and living overseas in 46 countries. Number 46 was Singapore. Megan fell in love in Turkey, taught English in Japan, studied in Poland and France and completed 20 miles of a 31 mile ultra marathon in Nepal.
Megan isn’t wealthy, she paid for this LOVE with her own sweat, blood and tears. She researches exhaustively for the best deals on flights and hotels and never goes anywhere in the high season. She also will never pay more than $1,000 to go to Europe.
Current bucket list adventures are the Trans Siberian Railroad, Argentina & New Zealand wine country.
She currently takes wanderers over to Iceland, Portugal, Croatia, Nepal, Japan and France.
Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthing Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
April 18, 2019
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Brazwell's
1627 Montford Dr.
Charlotte, NC 28209
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. We look forward to seeing you there!
April 26, 2019
, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Mac's Speed Shop
2511 South Blvd
Charlotte, NC 28203
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC lunches, this pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
May 1, 2019
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM The 4 Foundations Health and how it affects your business.
This week we’re taking a break from business development but instead discussing how your health can directly affect your business.
Businesses require constant growth, creativity, and energy to thrive. All of this however, takes a high level of mental and physical effort. Energy is a reflection of your overall health and is directly related to your productivity. Marcus will touch on the importance of proper movement, the significance of why we need sleep, why you need to be mindful of what you eat, and the physiologic impact of stress.
Don’t worry, this won’t be a lecture to call you out. Marcus will be presenting contemporary facts and data about what being healthy really means and hopefully inspire you to make few changes in your own life.
You’ll be surprised how much better you can perform when you body is healthy fit!
About our speaker: Dr. Marcus Schuster has been an active member of MBC for over 10 years. He practices in the Southpark area focusing on sports injury, spinal pain, and myofascial pain syndromes. He also has extensive experience in nutritional therapies and its physiologic role in inflammation, digestion, performance.
Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
May 15, 2019
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Megan is a Director of Historic South End with Charlotte Center City Partners. She has experience in facilitation and community engagement, coalition building and urban planning. Prior to joining Center City Partners in 2012, she was an associate with the Institute for Environmental Negotiation in Virginia. As a facilitator, she worked with community groups to build consensus around challenging issues, including local food systems, community health, racial equity, economic revitalization and Chesapeake Bay watershed management. Megan has also worked to build and coordinate diverse coalitions with United Way in Charlottesville VA and the Rights and Resources Initiative in Washington DC.
Megan earned her Master of Urban & Environmental Planning degree from the University of Virginia, and her Bachelor’s degree from the Walsh School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University. She and her husband Daniel, an attorney with Moore & Van Allen, live in a historic neighborhood near Center City.
Bryon's South End
101 W Worthing Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
May 16, 2019
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Brazwell's
1627 Montford Dr.
Charlotte, NC 28209
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. We look forward to seeing you there!
May 24, 2019
, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Leroy Fox (South End)
616 Camden Rd. Suite 150
Charlotte, NC 28203
Leroy Fox has quickly become South End Charlotte’s neighborhood hub to enjoy golden fried chicken in an inviting Carolina Atmosphere. Mixing traditional Southern Values with a fresh contemporary vibe, Leroy Fox Kitchen & Cocktails marries the perfect combination of service and flavor. Whether you desire an intimate meal with and old friend, or catching the game with your buddies, Leroy Fox will create the perfect experience.
The walls are lined with flat screen TV’s showing your favorite game alongside eye-catching local art making the whole group feel at home. Leroy Fox takes pride in every southern inspired dish from its perfectly crisped chicken tenders to fresh salmon filet on a bed of field greens. While dining on the covered patio or in the cozy Fox Den, you’ll find the surroundings you’ve been craving. So head on over to the South End location for delicious Southern fare paired with a local draft or handmade craft cocktail and settle in, relax and let The Fox take care of you.
***RSVP by Thursday at 5:00 please***
June 5, 2019
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Wylie Fox will be speaking to us on "What I've learned from working around Entrepreneur's most of my career"
Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
June 19, 2019
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM John Reiter is the Executive Director of Charlotte Village Network - A non-profit organization for adults 55+ in the Charlotte area who want to age in the home they love.
Bryon's South End
101 W Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
June 20, 2019
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Assorted Table Wines
224 E 7th Street
Charlotte, NC 28202
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. We look forward to seeing you there!
June 28, 2019
, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Join us for lunch this Friday at Midwood Smokehouse just behind the Park Road Shopping Center.
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC lunches, this pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
540 Brandywine Rd.
Charlotte, NC 28209
***Please RSVP by Thursday noon!***
Thanks!
July 17, 2019
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Officer Shaun Ward will be with us speaking about the CMPD Citizen's Academy.
The Citizen's Academy helps build community relationships and creates a cadre of citizens that are better informed about police work and their services to the community.
Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
July 18, 2019
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Brazwell's
1627 Montford Dr.
Charlotte, NC 28209
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. We look forward to seeing you there!
July 26, 2019
, 11:45 AM - 1:30 PM Reminder!
Join us for lunch next Friday (July 26th) at Community Matters Cafe.
Community Matters Cafe serves as an
extension program to Charlotte Rescue
Mission, a nonprofit transforming lives in
Charlotte by providing free residential
recovery programs for those struggling with
the disease of addiction.
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC lunches, this pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
821 W 1st Street
Charlotte, NC 28202
Thanks!
August 7, 2019
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Kyle Caddell is a 29 year veteran of the sports marketing industry that has included time with the Carolina Panthers, Charlotte Hornets, Tar Heel Sports Marketing, and Chip Ganassi Racing.
In his current role with the PGA TOUR, Kyle is the Director of Sales for the Presidents Cup, an international match play event that makes it first appearance in the Southeast US when it comes to Quail Hollow Club in September 2021. The Presidents Cup features the top twelve players in the US against the top 12
players from the rest of the world, excluding Europe. The tournament will be seen globally in over 1 billion households.
Kyle is a Charlotte native, a graduate of the University of North Carolina and a passionate supporter of the Heels. He played collegiate baseball at UNC and at Wake Forest University. Kyle and his wife Robin reside in Charlotte and have three children. In the community, the Caddell family are members of Providence United Methodist Church and Kyle is a past board member of the Harris YMCA.
Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
August 21, 2019
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Ben Kinney is publisher of Business North Carolina and SouthPark magazines.
Business North Carolina is a statewide business publication that focuses on the people, industry and trends that make up the state’s diverse economy. In its 38-year history, BNC has won over 120 national awards for editorial and design excellence including recognition as the 2012 “Best Regional Business Magazine” in the country by the Alliance of Area Business Publishers.
SouthPark has been Charlotte’s leading luxury lifestyle publication for over 20 years. Its editorial features in-depth interviews with local celebrities, fashion shoots and remarkable venues around Charlotte, as well as a wide array of editorial covering home design, food and drink, travel, shopping, the sporting life and more.
He has served on the boards of the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce, the Alliance of Area Business Publications and serves on NC State alumni magazine’s advisory group as well as on the board of directors for the NC State Alumni Association. He is active in the North Carolina Committee for Business and Education, North Carolina Economic Developers Association and is a graduate of Leadership North Carolina. Ben and his wife, Charlotte have two sons and live in Charlotte.
Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
September 4, 2019
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM David Erdman joined MBC in 1987 and has rarely missed a meeting over his 32 years in the group. David’s law firm provides “Business and Family Law” services.
In addition to being a lawyer, David is a recognized authority on Charlotte History and an author. David’s presentation will show dozens of interesting historic photographs of Old Charlotte, and he will speak on the joys and challenges of writing a book.
Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
September 18, 2019
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Andy Dinkin is a commercial real estate broker with Legacy Real Estate Advisers, and the owner of THE SEALS, a company that replaces gaskets on commercial refrigeration equipment.
He will be speaking to us about his plans to grow THE SEALS by selling franchises throughout the US.
Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
**RSVP by Monday at noon**
October 2, 2019
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Tools from Strategic Coach -
Small groups
Goal setting - 90 day sprint to year end
Accountability partners
The Positive focus
Sharing with others
Bryon's South End
101 W Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
October 16, 2019
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM ** Off Site Meeting**
Spiracle Media
421 Penman St. Suite 310
Charlotte, NC 28204
Spiracle Media is in the storytelling business. They use lights, camera, action and journalistic instincts to tell client stories on screens of all sizes. The mixed skill sets of cinematography and marketing/branding paired with journalistic integrity give this group a unique foothold in the world of visual marketing. Coming from a world of news anchors and professional sports, Spiracle has a light-footed ability to adjust to the client story as it unfolds and find hidden gems of truth and personality inside the walls of a client organization. Staying atop trends & emerging media while employing latest technologies to present brand value with moving pictures, Spiracle has the video toolkit to identify and deliver the right solution.
Tim Baier is a master storyteller, entrepreneur and small business champion. He spent nearly a decade working as a Sports Anchor/Reporter before co-founding Spiracle Media. An entrepreneur since his childhood lemonade stand, Tim’s forward-thinking vision has been key in strategically propelling Spiracle Media forward.
Tim is responsible for building relationships and finding creative solutions for prospective and current partners.
Tim is passionate about supporting fellow business owners as an active member of Entrepreneurs Organization, the National Small Business Association, iiCharlotte and Metrolina Business Council.
Jarod Latch is a video storyteller, speaker, entrepreneur and broadcaster. He has worked in media and digital for almost 20 years. In 2011, he took a chance and went all in as a co-founder of Spiracle Media. Since its inception, Jarod has been pivotal in managing partnerships and driving creative growth.
Currently, Jarod is focused on operations at Spiracle Media. In 2018, Spiracle was recognized as one of the Best Places to Work in Charlotte and as a Fast 50 company by the Charlotte Business Journal. The team has also won various international and national awards for video storytelling.
I'll send more information about parking tomorrow.
October 17, 2019
, 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM **Reminder**
Assorted Table Wine Shoppe
224 E. 7th St
Charlotte, NC 28202
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. We look forward to seeing you there!
October 25, 2019
, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Midwood Smokehouse
Park Road Shopping Center
540 Brandywine Rd.
Charlotte, NC 28209
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC lunches, this pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
November 6, 2019
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM We welcome John Lassiter speaking on The Republican National Convention to be held in Charlotte in August of next year.
John Lassiter is the President of Carolina Legal Staffing, the legal placement and staffing company he founded in 1997. The company has grown to five offices in the Carolinas and has been included on the INC5000 fastest growing companies five times. He began his career in Charlotte as an attorney and later senior HR executive with the Belk organization after serving as an Assistant Attorney General with the Department of Justice in Raleigh. He holds both his undergraduate and law degrees from Wake Forest University.
Throughout his professional life, he has been encouraged to serve his community in a variety of ways. John served 3 at-large terms on the Charlotte City Council where he chaired the Economic Development Committee and helped shepherd several key projects including the Levine Cultural Campus, The Epicenter entertainment and retail center, the NASCAR Hall of Fame and the Light Rail Blue Line. He previously served as vice-chair of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education during a time of high enrollment growth and expansion of magnet programs including language immersion schools and International Baccalaureate curriculum throughout the county. John served as President of the Mecklenburg County Bar and the Children’s Law Center and has served on the boards of many organizations including the North Carolina Bar Association, Blumenthal Performing Arts Center, UNC-HealthCare, the World Affairs Council of Charlotte and the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art.
He served as Chair of the North Carolina Economic Development Board and as Chair of the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina leading the effort to expand jobs and private investment across the state including a wide range of international companies deciding to call North Carolina home. He was recently named the CEO of the Host Committee bringing the Republican National Convention in 2020.
John has been recognized on numerous occasions for his leadership and service. Leadership Charlotte recognized him with the Circle of Excellence award in 2001. He honored in 2009 with the Mayor’s Award for Community Leadership and in 2011, the Greater Charlotte Cultural Trust awarded him a Spirit Award for his work on the Levine Cultural Campus. The North Carolina Bar Association honored him with their Citizen Lawyer Award in 2014. He was awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine by Governor McCrory in 2017 and the Harold Josephson Award for Global Thinking by the World Affairs Council in 2018.
John and his wife Beverly have two married sons and 4 grandchildren.
Byron's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
November 20, 2019
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Rohit Mehta, M.D., FACC, FHRS
Cardiac Electrophysiologist
Sanger Heart and Vascular Institute
Rohit Mehta, M.D., FACC, FHRS is a cardiac electrophysiologist at the Sanger Heart and Vascular Institute in Charlotte, NC. He earned his undergraduate degree at Duke University in Durham, NC. He then returned home to Arkansas where he completed his medical degree at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock. He then went on to Columbus, OH and The Ohio State University where he trained in Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Diseases, and then in Cardiac Electrophysiology. He served as Chief Cardiovascular Fellow in 2006.
He is board certified in Cardiac Electrophysiology and Cardiovascular Diseases. He joined Sanger Heart and Vascular Institute in 2008 with expertise in laser lead extraction (removal), complex cardiac device implantation, complex cardiac ablation, and large-scale data management. He served as medical director for cardiac electrophysiology from 2012-2016.
He serves as a reviewer for Heart Rhythm journal and Pacing and Cardiovascular Electrophysiology journal. Within the Heart Rhythm Society, he serves as a member of the Quality Improvement subcommittee and a member of the Health Policy Committee. He has served as a course director and steering committee member for “Day1” a program designed to teach electrophysiology fellows about transitioning to clinical practice.
His clinical passion has been and remains sudden cardiac arrest- with a focus on innovative care delivery, risk prediction and CPR awareness. He serves on the board of directors for the Omar Carter Foundation- serving as co-chairman since its inception in 2014. He has also served on the board of the American Heart Association in Charlotte since 2015- and recently finished his term as board President in 2019.
Byron's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
***Please RSVP by Monday at noon. Let me know if you are bringing a guest!***
November 21, 2019
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Brazwell's
1627 Montford Dr.
Charlotte, NC 28209
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. We look forward to seeing you there!
December 4, 2019
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 PM We welcome one of our newer members, Joe Traigle, who is going to speak about “Lessons learned as a career CEO.”
Joe Traigle currently owns and operates Sheffield Consulting with a focus on coaching and consulting with business owners and executives.
Joe is asking our members to bring to the Dec 4th meeting, topics and questions members would like him to address during his presentation.
The following is a summary of Joe’s 50 plus year career.
• Ford Motor Company, Senior Financial Analyst , 1966-1969
• Alexander Grant & Company, National Public Accounting/Consulting Firm, Senior Management consultant, 1969-1972
• State of Louisiana, Secretary of Revenue, (at age 28) 1972-1976
• Great American Corporation/American Bank, Publicly traded Company - Chairman and President ,1976-1983
• T L James & Co. (Family owned private company) Executive Vice President, COO 1983-1991
• The Sterling Group, International plastics distribution company, Co-founder and President and CEO, 1991-2008 - We grew this company from”0” in 1991 to $300M in 2008
• Sheffield Consulting, President & CEO, 2008-Present
Joe has a bachelor degree in Accounting and an MBA from Ole Miss.
In addition to Joe’s business career he has maintained a strong presence in the communities he has resided, including President of the Baton Rouge, La. Chamber of Commerce, Chairman of the United Way Board, etc.
One of Joe’s life long passions has been Public Broadcasting. In Louisiana, Joe served as Chairman of the statewide Public Television system for four years and then became Chairman of the Foundation of the Foundation for Excellence in Public Broadcasting. Joe also served a nine year term on the national Board of Trustees for Public Television and as Vice Chairman.
Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
December 5, 2019
, 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM Tomorrow night at Spiracle Media hosted by Tim Baier.
There is parking across the street from the office
Spiracle Media
421 Penman St.
Suite 310
Charlotte, NC 28204
December 18, 2019
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM We hope to see everyone at our Annual Champagne Breakfast. We will have a deluxe breakfast catered by Byron’s with Champagne and Orange Juice. It has been a tremendous year of accomplishments and wonderful connections so come celebrate.
This year's Donald Haack Award will be presented Wednesday morning. Julie Haack and her sons will be in attendance for the presentation.
Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
December 19, 2019
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Assorted Table Wine Shoppe
224 E. 7th St
Charlotte, NC 28202
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. We look forward to seeing you there!
January 15, 2020
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Goal Setting and Beyond - A New Perspective
Presented by Heidi Drummond
There will be Shrimp and Grits on the menu!!
Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
*
January 16, 2020
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Assorted Table Wine Shoppe
224 E. 7th St
Charlotte, NC 28202
First drink will be provided. This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. We look forward to seeing you there!
January 24, 2020
, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Join us for lunch on Friday at Midwood Smoke House in the Park Road Shopping Center.
540-C Brandywine Rd.
Charlotte, NC 28209
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC lunches, this pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
February 5, 2020
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Our speaker will be Jonathan Jones, a writer for CBS Sports. He will have just been at the Superbowl....
• Native of Shelby, N.C. Graduate of Ashbrook High, down the road in Gastonia and home of James Worthy.
• Went to UNC Chapel Hill and majored in journalism while covering national champions and NCAA scandals.
• Joined the Charlotte Observer in 2012 as a beat writer covering the Panthers through their Super Bowl run.
• Joined Sports Illustrated as a national NFL writer in 2016 covering the entire league.
• Appeared on television locally at WCCB News Edge and nationally on MSNBC.
• Joined CBS Sports as a senior NFL reporter in November 2019. Writes for CBSSports.com and am featured on our 24/7 sports news streaming service CBS Sports HQ and appear on CBS Sports Network's That Other Pregame Show from 8-12 during the season. I've reported from hospitals, courtrooms, an aircraft carrier and five Super Bowls.
If you would like to bring a guest, just reply to this email letting me know how many.
Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
**If anyone has post it notes with your business name that you would like to donate, I would appreciate it. Just bring to the meeting in the morning. Thanks!***
February 19, 2020
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM The speaker will be our very own Tracy Bowers from On The Rocks Jewelry.
Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
If anyone has post it notes with your company name on it, I could use a donation for use at our meetings. Thanks!
February 28, 2020
, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM Looking for a great turnout and better conversations at the 4th Friday MBC Lunch:
11:30am
Mac’s Speed shop (South End)
2511 South Blvd.
Charlotte, NC 28203
Hope to see you there.
Social Chair
Chris Woodhouse
March 4, 2020
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Steven Cole is the Vice President of Advancement for Veterans Bridge Home, where he is responsible for advancing the communications and fundraising objectives of the organization.
Prior to this role, he was the Director of Communications for Charlotte Center City Partners, the urban planning and downtown economic development organization for Charlotte’s urban core.
A West Point Graduate and retired Army lieutenant colonel, Steven served for more than 20 years in roles including: the public affairs officer in Washington DC, Kabul, Afghanistan, and as the Army’s liaison to the film and TV industry in Los Angeles, CA. Prior to these public relations assignments, Steven taught history at West Point and served in numerous management and staff assignments in armor and cavalry organizations.
A native Charlottean, Steven earned a B.S. in history from the United States Military Academy at West Point, N.Y. and a Masters of Arts in African History from the University of Maryland, College Park.
Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28203
March 18, 2020
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM The board has decided that, under the current circumstances, our meeting on Wednesday should be postponed.
Please make wise decisions and stay safe everyone!
Thanks!
April 1, 2020
, 7:45 AM - 8:30 AM Last minute reminder:
We are going to have our meeting in the morning via Zoom. Please log on five minutes early so we will be ready to start at 7:45. Click the link below or copy and paste it in your browser.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/447298359?pwd=eWkwREN1M3NEd3pjY3grajhBRU1aUT09
Thanks, stay safe and healthy and we'll see you, virtually, in the morning.
April 7, 2021
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
For those not comfortable attending in person, please join Zoom Meeting.
https://zoom.us/j/91084489558?pwd=SW9jR1RGakEraGJ6U1dDNVR1ZWdZQT09
We will continue to have precautions in place. We'll have more tables and fewer people at each table. We'll have servers serving us our food and coffee so there will be fewer people handling surfaces.
WEAR YOUR MASK! We will have masks available as well as hand sanitizer. We'll also have arm bands for everyone, you choose based on your comfort level. Red means don't get close, yellow means I'm somewhat comfortable but don't get too close and Green means you are comfortable socializing.
Please only RSVP if you plan to attend in person, this will help for the food count.
Our speaker will be:
Joe Bruno, wsoctv.com
Joe Bruno covers politics and breaking news for WSOC-TV. The Elon University graduate has been a reporter in Charlotte since 2014. The Charlotte Agenda named Bruno to its Top 30 under 30 list. He has twice been named a media mind to watch by the Charlotte Agenda. Bruno’s reporting has been honored by the Associated Press, RTDNA, Society of Professional Journalists and the Television Academy. Bruno has been nominated for three Emmy awards. Bruno will discuss the challenges of covering Charlotte over the past 7 years including this past year during CoVid. Most notably he's been using his Twitter account to share possible vaccine appointment opportunities with the community to help people find a spot for a shot.
April 15, 2021
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM What: Please join us this Thursday for our 3rd Thursday Social
When: This Thursday 4/15 @ 5pm
Where: Brazwells ~ 1627 Montford Dr, Charlotte, NC 28209
1st drink & appetizers on MBC!!!
We hope you will be able to join us, even if it is just for a few minutes to say ‘Hi’
See you there!!!
April 21, 2021
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Clarification: Meeting is April 21, 2021
Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
For those not comfortable attending in person, please join Zoom Meeting.
https://zoom.us/j/96748641073?pwd=L0xleEo2U1FTS3VJZnJKa1g5aWkwQT09
Meeting ID: 967 4864 1073
Passcode: 858800
We will continue to have precautions in place. We'll have more tables and fewer people at each table. We'll have servers serving us our food and coffee so there will be fewer people handling surfaces.
WEAR YOUR MASK! We will have masks available as well as hand sanitizer. We'll also have arm bands for everyone, you choose based on your comfort level. Red means don't get close, yellow means I'm somewhat comfortable but don't get too close and Green means you are comfortable socializing.
Please only RSVP if you plan to attend in person, this will help for the food count.
May 5, 2021
, 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM Please note the NEW LOCATION....
Sugar Creek Brewing Company
215 Southside Dr.
Charlotte, NC 28217
For those not comfortable attending in person, please join Zoom Meeting.
https://zoom.us/j/93084669452?pwd=R01QTXFOb29YRDlablNTYm1PNDlmZz09
Meeting ID: 930 8466 9452
Passcode: 523502
We will continue to have precautions in place and we'll have plenty of space to spread out.
WEAR YOUR MASK! We will have masks available as well as hand sanitizer. We'll also have arm bands for everyone, you choose based on your comfort level. Red means don't get close, yellow means I'm somewhat comfortable but don't get too close and Green means you are comfortable socializing.
Please only RSVP if you plan to attend in person, this will help for the food count.
Our speaker will be Michael Hurlbert, Director of Strategic Relationships at the Thurgood Marshall College Fund.
Established in 1987, the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) is the nation’s largest organization exclusively representing the Black College Community. TMCF member-schools include the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs). HBCUs enroll over 80% of all students attending HBCUs. Through scholarships, capacity building and research initiatives, innovative programs, and strategic partnerships, TMCF is a vital resource in the K-12 and higher education space. The organization is also a source for top employers seeking top talent for competitive internships and good jobs.
May 19, 2021
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM WE WILL BE BACK AT:
Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
For those not comfortable attending in person, please join Zoom Meeting.
https://zoom.us/j/98271856540?pwd=VW5ra25VUUhPZGYzbCtTWStDZTcvQT09
Meeting ID: 982 7185 6540
Passcode: 814378
We will continue to have precautions in place. We'll have more tables and fewer people at each table. We'll have servers serving us our food and coffee so there will be fewer people handling surfaces.
We will have masks available as well as hand sanitizer. We'll also have arm bands for everyone, you choose based on your comfort level. Red means don't get close, yellow means I'm somewhat comfortable but don't get too close and Green means you are comfortable socializing.
Please only RSVP if you plan to attend in person, this will help for the food count.
Our speaker will be Pete Frandano on Wednesday at Byron's.
Peter A. Frandano, CCIM, GRI, MBA has a combined 30+ years in the Fortune 500 and real estate arenas. As a former Fortune 500 Logistics/Supply Chain Exec who bounced all over the globe for quite a few years, after being diverted to Syracuse, NY enroute from Boston’s Logan Airport to Pittsburgh on a business trip that beautiful, fateful fall morning of September 11, 2001 (9/11) Pete decided to make a “right turn” in his life and pursue his entrepreneurial dreams in the real estate industry and more time with his family. Pete has had the good fortune to coach and consult with many great colleagues and clients over the years and he prides himself as being an in the arena guy. Pete focuses his time in the real estate industry in the commercial sector, specializing in transactional brokerage, valuation, and consulting. Pete was co-owner of a full-service real estate company (Southport Realty) in beautiful coastal southeastern, NC, and returned to Charlotte in 2014 where he now divides his time between the city and the coast. Pete has been President of River Sound Inc. a real estate consulting firm since 2005.
His book Endurance Real Estate, started out as a chronicle for my two sons but evolved into something I hope can help you or others in your world. The book is real estate centric, but its not all about real estate: it is for seasoned or aspiring real estate professionals, small business owners, entrepreneurs business managers, leaders, and endurance athletes.
May 20, 2021
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM What: Please join us this evening for our 3rd Thursday Social
When: this evening, May 20th at 5:00
Where: Brazwells ~ 1627 Montford Dr, Charlotte, NC 28209
1st drink & appetizers on MBC!!!
We hope you will be able to join us, even if it is just for a few minutes to say ‘Hi’
See you there!!!
June 2, 2021
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM WE WILL BE BACK AT:
Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
We will continue to have precautions in place. We'll have more tables and fewer people at each table. We'll have servers serving us our food and coffee so there will be fewer people handling surfaces.
We will have masks available as well as hand sanitizer. We'll also have arm bands for everyone, you choose based on your comfort level. Red means don't get close, yellow means I'm somewhat comfortable but don't get too close and Green means you are comfortable socializing.
Our speaker will be our very own JC Mahoney. JC is a Realtor/Broker with Dickens Mitchner and Associates.
JC Mahoney is a native Charlottean, a second-generation Charlotte REALTOR®, and a lifelong resident of the Myers Park, Dilworth, and SouthPark communities. He graduated from the University of Colorado at Boulder with a bachelor’s degree in U.S. history. Prior to starting a career in real estate at Dickens Mitchener, Mahoney launched four successful startup businesses in the diverse industries of apparel, food service, technology, and health care. After 20 years of successful entrepreneurial endeavors and focus on exceeding clients’ needs, he made the natural transition into residential real estate.
Mahoney enjoys coaching baseball for the Dilworth Little League. He’s a volunteer at Selwyn Elementary and Alexander Graham Middle School. Mahoney enjoys spending time with his three sons, personal finance, roasting coffee, playing with his English mastiff and scuba diving. He’s a member of Myers Park Presbyterian Church and Barclay Downs Swim Club.
June 16, 2021
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
We will continue to have precautions in place. We'll have more tables and fewer people at each table. We'll have servers serving us our food so there will be fewer people handling surfaces.
We will have masks available as well as hand sanitizer.
Our speaker will be Lisa Dale, Vice President, Carolinas
Lisa Dale is a longtime 24 Foundation rider and fundraiser. Lisa has over 30 years of experience specializing in vision creation by partnering with Fortune 500 companies to execute their mission and message through a phased plan that creates brand awareness, increased profitability, and fosters brand loyalty. Prior to 24 Foundation, Lisa worked as a Corporate Promotional Consulting partner with HALO Branded Solutions. She graduated with an Associates in Business Management and Marketing. Lisa is an active runner and cyclist that you will frequently see on the COCAC, Unknown-Dornier, Adiamo, OMB, and MOJO group and charity rides. She resides in Charlotte and has two children Morgan and Jon Michael.
June 17, 2021
, 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM What: Please join us tomorrow for our 3rd Thursday Social
When: Thursday, June 17th at 5:00
Where: Brazwells ~ 1627 Montford Dr, Charlotte, NC 28209
1st drink & appetizers on MBC!!!
We hope you will be able to join us, even if it is just for a few minutes to say ‘Hi’
See you there!!!
July 15, 2021
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM We haven’t seen each other since June 16th – almost 4 weeks, YIKES!
Our MBC Social is this Thursday, 7/15, at Brazwells Pub 5-7pm Join us to toast the summer!
1st drink & appetizers on MBC!
We hope to see you there!
Please RSVP yes and mark your calendar so you don’t forget!
See you there!!
Thanks
July 21, 2021
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
We will continue to have precautions in place. We'll have more tables and fewer people at each table.
We will have masks available as well as hand sanitizer.
This week's speaker is David Julian from Johnson C. Smith University where he's the Director of Development. He manages a $3 million effort to fundraise for Charlotte's historically black University with outreach to donors, corporations and foundations to support the University's mission. Prior to his time at JC Smith, he was a major gift officer for UNC Charlotte.
Big thanks to Dave Pfleeger for connecting us with David to speak to our group on July 21st.
July 30, 2021
, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM The Manchester at 1812 South Blvd Friday @ 11:30
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC lunches, this pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
There is a free parking code – you will need to go into the restaurant to get the code and then go to the pay station.
Thanks for your help with this.
See you there!
August 4, 2021
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
We will continue to have precautions in place. We'll have more tables and fewer people at each table.
We will have masks available as well as hand sanitizer.
Our speaker is Nick DeFilippo.
Nick is an experienced Director level partnerships & business development professional with a demonstrated history of success working in the healthcare industry across a number of specialties including biotech, software, diagnostics, and genetics.
He currently holds the position of Senior Director, Business Development & Partnerships at Helix. Helix is accelerating the integration of genomic data into clinical care and broadening the impact of large-scale population health programs by providing comprehensive expertise in DNA sequencing, bioinformatics, and individual engagement.
Nick's focus is delivering novel products and solutions by partnering with health systems, pharmaceutical and therapeutics companies, and other life science companies at an enterprise level. His experience in helping meet the needs of these verticals with his products and solutions by improving the patient experience, bettering the health of the population, helping reduce the cost of overall care has been a crucial part of his continued success.
Nick holds his B.S. and MBA from the University of Cincinnati.
August 18, 2021
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
We will continue to have precautions in place. We'll have more tables and fewer people at each table.
We will have masks available as well as hand sanitizer.
Our Speaker will be Nick Kelly, Club President of the Charlotte Football Club.
Kelly is responsible for the team’s day-to-day business operations.
Kelly comes to Charlotte FC following six years with Anheuser-Busch InBev (AB InBev), where he most recently served as vice president of partnerships, beer culture and community. In this role, Kelly oversaw all company partnerships in the sports, music and entertainment fields across the United States.
“Soccer has arrived in Charlotte, and we have an incredible opportunity to build an organization and a culture of fandom that rivals the top teams in MLS,” said Kelly. “When I met David Tepper and Tom Glick, I was attracted to the exciting vision they had for what Tepper Sports & Entertainment can be for the Carolinas and I look forward to helping realize that vision with Charlotte FC.”
With AB InBev, Kelly was instrumental in the development of its sports marketing strategies for league, team and player partnerships within MLS, the NFL, MLB, NHL, NBA, NASCAR, PGA, NWSL, and the Olympics. In 2018, Kelly played a key role in unlocking the use of active athletes with the first-of-its-kind player-rights deal in the beer category with the NFLPA, NBPA and MLBPA.
August 19, 2021
, 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM Our MBC Social is this Thursday, 8/19, at Brazwells Pub 5-7:30 pm Join us!
1st drink & appetizers on MBC!
We hope to see you there!
Please RSVP yes and mark your calendar so you don’t forget!
See you there!!
Thanks
August 27, 2021
, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM The Manchester at 1812 South Blvd
Friday, August 27th @ 11:30
There is a free parking code – you will need to go into the restaurant to get the code and then go to the pay station
Join us!
September 1, 2021
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
We will continue to have precautions in place. We'll have more tables and fewer people at each table.
We will have masks available as well as hand sanitizer.
Tim Baier will screen a new documentary from his company on their struggles and triumph throughout the pandemic in 2020. The film is set to debut at several film festivals this fall.
Director: David Kernodle • Duration: 0:56:00
Year: 2021
This documentary tells the story of three business owners as they struggle to keep their company afloat while trying to keep their personal lives intact during a worldwide pandemic.
September 15, 2021
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
We will continue to have precautions in place. We'll have more tables and fewer people at each table.
We will have masks available as well as hand sanitizer.
Speaker to be announced.
September 23, 2021
, 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM Our MBC Social is this Thursday, tomorrow, 9/23, at Brazwells Pub 5-7:30 pm Join us!
1st drink & appetizers on MBC!
We hope to see you there!
Please RSVP yes and mark your calendar so you don’t forget!
See you there!!
October 6, 2021
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
We will continue to have precautions in place. We'll have more tables and fewer people at each table.
We will have masks available as well as hand sanitizer.
Our speaker will be our very own Craig Dunn, speaking on his company and their time with Covid. I hope to see you in the morning!
October 20, 2021
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
We will continue to have precautions in place. We'll have more tables and fewer people at each table.
We will have masks available as well as hand sanitizer.
Our speaker will be our very own Josh Villapando.
Josh Villapando’s work in the fine food & wine industry in Charlotte spans over 25 years. As a respected authority among customers & peers, his goal with Assorted Table Wine Shoppe is to provide intelligent and entertaining discussion about wine without alienation.
A member of Piedmont Culinary Guild and Metrolina Business Council, Josh’s thirst for wine goes far beyond the glass. Continuing education and professional development are key building blocks for any wine professional, and Josh stays current. Understanding the modern wine landscape requires immersion in the trade. From exploring the regions of Italy to winding up the coast of California, Josh typically stays at the wineries themselves when traveling. And whether it’s Pinot Noir ‘Boot Camp’ in Oregon or touring wineries in Portugal, it’s always about the juice. Currently, Josh is pursuing a degree in Enology & Viticulture at Surry Community College in Dobson, NC.
When not slinging wine, Josh can be found playing Hot Wheels with his son, supporting (and smooching!) his beautiful wife, Jenny (a highly respected restaurant professional in her own right), on a bicycle flinging himself down a mountain in Western North Carolina, or pop-and-locking in an old-school breakdance showdown.
October 21, 2021
, 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM Our MBC Social is this Thursday, 10.21, at Brazwells Pub 5-7:30 pm Join us!
1st drink & appetizers on MBC!
1627 Montford Dr.
Charlotte, NC 28209
We hope to see you there!
Please RSVP yes and mark your calendar so you don’t forget!
See you there!!
October 22, 2021
, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Assorted Table Wine Shoppe, 7th Street Public Market
224 E 7th St.
Charlotte, NC 28202
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC lunches, this pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
Hope you'll make plans to be there.
November 3, 2021
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
We will continue to have precautions in place. We'll have more tables and fewer people at each table.
We will have masks available as well as hand sanitizer.
Speaker will be MATT DOHERTY!
Matt Doherty played and coached basketball at the University of North Carolina. He started on the 1982 National Championship team with NBA greats Michael Jordan and James Worthy. The program was led by legendary coach Dean Smith. After one year as the head coach at Notre Dame, Matt took over the UNC program and led them to the 2001 regular season ACC Championship while being named AP National Coach of the Year.
Since his time at UNC, Coach Doherty worked as the head coach at FAU and SMU in addition to working at ESPN, the Indiana Pacers and the Atlantic 10 Conference. He currently runs the Doherty Coaching Practice which includes executive coaching, seminars, and corporate talks. He continues to work in the media with weekly radio shows in Charlotte on WFNZ (sports talk) and WBT (news and current events), and the ACC Network where he is a color analyst for basketball games. Matt is married to Kelly and has two children, Tucker and Hattie. They reside in Mooresville, NC.
http://www.rebound-book.com/
Please invite guests! Invite anyone you think would be interested in hearing Matt Doherty speak. If you are bringing guests, please email and let me know how many. It will be very important to have an accurate head count for table set up and food!
November 17, 2021
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
We will continue to have precautions in place. We'll have more tables and fewer people at each table.
We will have masks available as well as hand sanitizer.
Our speaker will be Andy Dinkin!
See you Wednesday morning!
November 18, 2021
, 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM Our MBC Social is Thursday the 18th, at Assorted Table Wine Shoppe at the 7th Street Market 5-7:30 pm Join us!
1st drink & appetizers on MBC!
224 East 7th St.
Charlotte, NC 28202
We hope to see you there!
Please RSVP yes and mark your calendar so you don’t forget!
See you there!!
December 1, 2021
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
We will continue to have precautions in place. We'll have more tables and fewer people at each table.
We will have masks available as well as hand sanitizer.
Our Speaker will be John Cantrell.
John is going to discuss:
MBC's impact on my life: including:
How MBC has impacted my life
How real estate has impacted my life
some lessons learned from MBC members
and covid's impact on my insurance and real estate businesses
See you Wednesday morning!
December 2, 2021
, 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM This year's holiday party will be hosted by Greg Davis
2612 Country Club Ln
Charlotte, NC 28205
Lots of good food, good music and awesome people!
Please RSVP asap! If you haven't done so, please let me know asap if you are coming. I need you to email me if you are bringing a guest. I need this information as I need to give a final headcount to the caterer.
Thanks and enjoy!
December 15, 2021
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM We hope to see everyone at our Annual Champagne Breakfast. We will have a deluxe breakfast catered by Byron’s with Champagne and Orange Juice. It has been a tremendous year of accomplishments and wonderful connections so come celebrate.
Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
We will continue to have precautions in place. We'll have more tables and fewer people at each table.
We will have masks available as well as hand sanitizer.
There is free parking on the street until 9:00am There is also the Design Center Parking Deck located at 240 Doggett St. If you park in the deck, bring in your ticket to be validated.
January 5, 2022
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM The meeting for Wednesday has been canceled due to so many members having Covid. We will meet again on January 19th.
Happy New Year!
January 19, 2022
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
We will continue to have precautions in place. We'll have more tables and fewer people at each table.
We will have masks available as well as hand sanitizer.
There is free parking on the street until 9:00am There is also the Design Center Parking Deck located at 240 Doggett St. If you park in the deck, bring in your ticket to be validated.
Our speaker will be former MBC member Debby Millhouse. She will be speaking on "Review, Reimagine and Reengage for the New Year"
I look forward to seeing you bright and early on the 19th!
February 2, 2022
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
We will continue to have precautions in place. We'll have more tables and fewer people at each table.
We will have masks available as well as hand sanitizer.
There is free parking on the street until 9:00am There is also the Design Center Parking Deck located at 240 Doggett St. If you park in the deck, bring in your ticket to be validated.
Our speaker will be MBC member Marc Mataya. His topic is "How I use the universe to succeed!"
Marc Mataya, born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA, blindly moved to Charlotte in July of 1993 to seek a career in technology in the financial services world. At that time, Charlotte was the 4rd largest banking industry in the country, so the city was a perfect fit for his degrees at The Ohio State University in Accounting, Finance and Computer Information Science.
Marc worked as a software developer for Wells Fargo and Bank of America for seven years before breaking out and forming his own programming consulting business back in 2000. With the combination of his financial skills, business operations knowledge and website development experiences, Marc then began his credit card processing company, called Straightline Processing, a few years later.
Although Straightline can do merchant processing for any type or size of business, his niche in the credit card industry is providing web-based technologies for online payments, managing recurring transactions and B2B transactions. Marc is a direct reseller for Visa, Mastercard, Discover & American Express and competes with national banks.
Marc comes from a background of entrepreneurial parents who owned and operated several Hair Salon Spas in Pittsburgh. His father’s salon management role had led him to pioneer and develop the world’s first salon software application back in 1985. His father, who passed in 2014, created a national hair salon software company in 1985 that is still going strong today and services thousands of salons and spas across the United States and Canada. Marc and his brother Scott in San Francisco currently co-own his late-father’s company which is still operating out of Pittsburgh.
Marc is the proud father of his daughter Lindsay, born in 2004. Lindsay is an amazing athlete and a varsity cheerleader at Myers Park High School.
Marc pursues his other creative ideas via his company called Burrito Brands Incorporated where they manufacture their flagship product called Leaf Burrito which is a reusable yard debris bag.
Marc’s hobbies include touring the country on his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, mountain biking, playing tennis, water & snow skiing, spending a lot of time in the mountains, creating non-profit projects, serving on boards, and singing and playing guitar in a hobby-band that he formed back in 1996 called Orange Crush.
His mantra is Roman Philosopher Seneca’s quote of “Luck is when preparation meets opportunity!”
I look forward to seeing you bright and early on the 2nd!
February 16, 2022
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
We will continue to have precautions in place. We'll have more tables and fewer people at each table.
We will have masks available as well as hand sanitizer.
There is free parking on the street until 9:00am There is also the Design Center Parking Deck located at 240 Doggett St. If you park in the deck, bring in your ticket to be validated.
Our speaker will be Jim Dunn from Dunn Enterprises, Owner of Sandler Training.
Beginning his selling career after graduating from East Carolina University with a BS BA in Management, Jim Dunn was in competitive (territorial) healthcare sales for more than ten years before becoming the first Sandler Training franchise in the Carolinas in 1992. Sandler, the world’s largest training company has recently been added to the Harvard MBA program for its exceptional excellence in communication and executing business development skills. "Finding Power in Reinforcement," Jim has over twenty-five years of working with companies of all sizes and types to ‘find, hire and keep’ great employees; most especially in all aspects of business development. Additionally, his training and public speaking experience in communication, sales and sales management makes him truly an expert in Sales Force Development. As a consistent “Diamond Award” level winner with Sandler, Jim’s personal commitment is that each of his clients receive greater than a ‘20 to 1’ return on their investment. Married for more than 30 years with three grown children, Jim and his wife have resided in the Charlotte area since 1985. Working with entrepreneurs, international, national and regional companies as well as career professionals, Jim has a long list of clients. He has worked with owners, CEOs, sales management, and sales people from the following businesses: Asplundh, Distribution Technology, Insight, Forest 2 Market, Fisher International, Technon OrbiChem, CliftonLarsonAllen, AXA Financial Advisors, Wells Fargo, Techniques, M/I Homes, SPATCO, Bonitz Contracting, Heyward Inc., Maxson & Associates, Diplomat, South Carolina Air, Paddock Pools, TRUPoint Partners, Prochant, Meridian Bird Removal, PHT Chemical International, BGW and Imagine Software.
I look forward to seeing each of you bright and early on the 16th.
February 17, 2022
, 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM Our MBC Social is tomorrow, Feb 17th, at Assorted Table Wine Shoppe at the 7th Street Market 5-7:30 pm. Join us!
224 East 7th St.
Charlotte, NC 28202
We hope to see you there!
Please RSVP yes and mark your calendar so you don’t forget!
See you there!!
March 2, 2022
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
We will continue to have precautions in place. We'll have more tables and fewer people at each table.
We will have masks available as well as hand sanitizer.
There is free parking on the street until 9:00am There is also the Design Center Parking Deck located at 240 Doggett St. If you park in the deck, bring in your ticket to be validated.
Our speaker will be Danny Decker. Danny Decker is an author, marketing coach, and consultant for ambitious entrepreneurs. In 2018, he successfully sold his marketing agency which he built from zero to seven figures in just five years, despite operating in a highly-competitive industry. Danny is the author of Marketing Simplified, available through Amazon and all major book retailers, and he is also the host of several popular podcasts, including the Marketing Simplified Podcast.
He's also the author of a forthcoming book, entitled The Automatic Marketing Machine, which he wrote to help ambitious business owners learn how to stop wasting money on marketing that doesn’t work and learn how to instead create simple, effective marketing systems that actually generate a profit. To learn more about The Automatic Marketing Machine, and to access a wealth of FREE marketing resources and strategies, visit www.AutomaticMarketingMachine.com.
See you on the 2nd!
March 16, 2022
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
We will continue to have precautions in place. We'll have more tables and fewer people at each table.
We will have masks available as well as hand sanitizer.
There is free parking on the street until 9:00am There is also the Design Center Parking Deck located at 240 Doggett St. If you park in the deck, bring in your ticket to be validated.
Our speaker will be Clayton Blount. Clay is the Managing Partner of H2O Drying Solutions
He’s been married 29 Years to Beth and they have 2 Sons - Taylor 27 Kenton 25
Clay attended The University of Florida and Beth is a Florida State graduate
He attends Central Church and has served on Transportation team for 6 years
He volunteers with Rice N Beans and Leads 2 Men’s Christian small groups at the Shack (A bar or gathering place in back yard)
Clay loves to Travel, workout, Football, the occasional cigar, family activities, be active (Clay can’t sit still)
Clay has owned or been a partner in 3 different company’s CPI Security, Charlotte Tech Support, and H2O Drying Solutions
We'll see you bright and early on March 16th.
March 17, 2022
, 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM Our MBC Social is tomorrow, March 17th, at Brazwell's Pub 5-7:30 pm. Join us!
1627 Montford Dr.
Charlotte, NC
We hope to see you there!
Please RSVP yes and mark your calendar so you don’t forget!
See you there!!
Don't forget to wear GREEN!
April 6, 2022
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
We will continue to have precautions in place. We'll have more tables and fewer people at each table.
We will have masks available as well as hand sanitizer.
There is free parking on the street until 9:00am There is also the Design Center Parking Deck located at 240 Doggett St. If you park in the deck, bring in your ticket to be validated.
Our speaker will be April Smith with Social Ape Marketing.
April has worked in marketing for over 12 years and founded Social Ape Marketing in 2012. She created the company when she realized that many small and medium-sized businesses were struggling to understand social media marketing and how it could benefit their businesses. Social Ape Marketing has helped nearly 100 businesses in the Carolinas by creating unique campaigns including social media marketing, public relations, influencer marketing and more.
Her topic will be Social Media Marketing Trends to Focus On in 2022 - As social media marketing continues to evolve, it's important to stay up to date on trends that will increase brand awareness, engagement and sales for your company. During this presentation, April will review several trends that your business won't want to miss out on this year.
April 20, 2022
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
We will continue to have precautions in place. We'll have more tables and fewer people at each table.
We will have masks available as well as hand sanitizer.
There is free parking on the street until 9:00am There is also the Design Center Parking Deck located at 240 Doggett St. If you park in the deck, bring in your ticket to be validated.
Our speaker will be Andrew Travis talking about Cyber Security.
As a new Charlotte transplant, Andrew Travis is an information security professional with 15 years of experience in networking and security. Prior to moving to Charlotte, he lead an information security team at a university and then served as a senior information security engineer for a non-profit. Presently, Andrew is a Systems Engineer at Fortinet designing and architecting solutions to improve customer’s security posture.
In Andrew’s time in cybersecurity, he has studied attackers’ tactics, techniques and procedures to prepare defenses and improve detections. Training end-users, designing highly-segmented networks, creating risk matrixes, performing forensics, playing a critical role in incident response and everything in-between, he would describe this time as exciting and rewarding (albeit concerning too). And during that time, he has seen ransomware attacks and their techniques evolve. What began as a “smash and grab” technique morphed into a criminal’s lucrative business model.
In this upcoming presentation, Andrew will discuss the threat that Ransomware poses and what steps you can take to protect yourselves and your organizations.
April 21, 2022
, 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM Our MBC Social is tomorrow, April 21st, at Brazwell's Pub 5-7:30 pm. Join us!
1627 Montford Dr.
Charlotte, NC
We hope to see you there!
Please RSVP yes and mark your calendar so you don’t forget!
See you there!!
May 4, 2022
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
There is free parking on the street until 9:00am There is also the Design Center Parking Deck located at 240 Doggett St. If you park in the deck, bring in your ticket to be validated.
Our speaker will be Ben Berman, certified EOS Implementer!
The EOS Model is a visual illustration of the Six Key Components of any business that must be managed and strengthened to be a great organization. This model applies to entrepreneurial business in any industry.
The EOS process provides a proven way to put all the pieces together, incorporating each of the EOS Tools in the right order to best strengthen each Key Component of your business.
So far I know of 19 guests for this meeting. If you are bringing a guest and haven't let me know yet, please do so today! Thanks!
May 18, 2022
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
There is free parking on the street until 9:00am There is also the Design Center Parking Deck located at 240 Doggett St. If you park in the deck, bring in your ticket to be validated.
Our Speaker will be Doug Meyer-Cuno.
Doug founded Carolina Ingredients, a nationally recognized and award-winning industrial seasoning manufacturer based in Rock Hill, SC. Under his leadership, Doug led the company’s growth into several industrial food markets becoming one of the premier privately owned seasoning manufactures. Carolina Ingredients became the first LEED Sustainable seasoning plant in the country and the first photovoltaic system in York County. Today, Carolina Ingredients is still considered to have one of the largest photovoltaic systems in the York County. Solar energy supplies alternative fuel for the production plant as well as hot water for the office complex.
In 2019, Mitsubishi, completed their acquisition of Carolina Ingredients as a strategic platform for their expansion into the North American market. Carolina Ingredients became the first privately company to be purchased by the Japanese conglomerate.
Doug has also founded Compaction International, DMC Enterprises LLC, and Merisal LLC.
Recently, Doug created Empowered Leadership which helps entrepreneurs, business owners, and CEO’s scale their companies by empowering their teams, allowing them to work ON their company rather than In them.
Doug is a recent Forbes author: and his book “The Recipe for Empowered Leadership and the 25 Ingredients to Create Value and Empowering Others” is an Amazon bestseller. Doug is an Amazon best selling author.
Respected Community Leader
Doug has a distinguished history of community service:
- Chairman of York County Economic Development Board
- South Carolina Ambassador for Economic Development
- Member of Clover/Lake Wylie YMCA Board
- Chairman of Gaston Day School Board
- Founding Father of Gaston Day School Hall of Fame
- Member of Yadkin Bank’s Community Advisory Board
- Member of the SNAC International Board of Directors
- Former Chairman of the Board for his local church
Doug will be speaking on How to Lead in today’s environment through Gratitude. Are we authentic with our employees, our friends, and our peers? How do we, as leaders, maximize our potential? Do we leverage an intentional mindset when we lead?
May 19, 2022
, 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM Our MBC Social is tomorrow, May 19th, at Brazwell's Pub 5-7:30 pm. Join us!
1627 Montford Dr.
Charlotte, NC
We hope to see you there!
Please RSVP yes and mark your calendar so you don’t forget!
See you there!!
June 1, 2022
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
There is free parking on the street until 9:00am There is also the Design Center Parking Deck located at 240 Doggett St. If you park in the deck, bring in your ticket to be validated.
The speaker will be our very own Richard Sterling.
Richard Sterling joined MBC in 2015 after starting his career at Merrill as a Financial Advisor. Since then, he earned his Certified Financial Planner and current title as a Wealth Manager. He's proud to call Charlotte his home for 41 years and has lived in South End since 2007. He married Jamie Jolly in 2015 and got a step son, Pierce, (now 17!) , in the package. Richard graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a now very dusty degree in Pharmacy and earned an MBA from UNCC as well.
He's looking forward to giving an update on the markets and current financial landscape as well as share some ideas for your consideration.
June 15, 2022
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
There is free parking on the street until 9:00am There is also the Design Center Parking Deck located at 240 Doggett St. If you park in the deck, bring in your ticket to be validated.
Our Speaker will be Catherine Papas.
Catherine Pappas is the mastermind leader of Dickens Mitchener’s award-winning relocation department. As a native Charlottean, Pappas brings a wealth of intimate knowledge, experience, enthusiasm, and attention to her job of transitioning families to and from the Queen City.
Pappas is a proud graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she earned a degree in economics.
Pappas has more than 25 years of relocation experience and also holds many impressive relocation designations. She holds her Certified Relocation Professional (CRP), Relocation Certified Coordinator (RCC) and Global Destination Specialist (GDS) designations. She also assisted Dickens Mitchener in solidifying some strategic memberships with the Employee Relocation Council (ERC), the Leading Real Estate Companies of the World™, the Charlotte Chamber Economic Development Council and the Charlotte Metro Area Relocation Council. She also has been honored with The President's Service Award, Relo Direct Platinum Service Excellence Award in 2016 and 2018, and inducted into the Relocation Hall of Fame in 2018.
Under Pappas's powerful leadership, the relocation department has been honored with numerous awards for outgoing and incoming referral performance and marketing. The department was recently re-certified for the prestigious RELO Quality Certification (RQC), a designation that is held by less than 4% of the top real estate companies in the world, and in 2012, Dickens Mitchener won the International Properties Award for best real estate company in North Carolina. Pappas has served as Chairman of the Advisory Council and the Board of the Relocation Director’s Council.
Catherine will be presenting information on the current housing market in Charlotte and beyond.
June 16, 2022
, 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM Our MBC Social is tomorrow, June 16th, at Assorted Table Wine & Shop 5-7:30 pm. Join us!
7th Street Market
Uptown Charlotte
We hope to see you there!
Please RSVP yes and mark your calendar so you don’t forget!
See you there!!
July 20, 2022
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
There is free parking on the street until 9:00am There is also the Design Center Parking Deck located at 240 Doggett St. If you park in the deck, bring in your ticket to be validated.
Our Speaker will be Mark Vitner.
Mark Vitner is a managing director and senior economist for Wells Fargo’s Corporate and Investment Bank, where he is responsible for tracking U.S. and regional economic conditions. Mark writes for the department’s weekly and monthly economic reports and also produces regular publications on residential and commercial construction, regional economies and issues impacting small business.
Mark joined a Wells Fargo predecessor institution in 1993. His commentary has been featured in the New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, and many other publications. He makes frequent guest appearances on CNBC and many other major networks.
Originally from Atlanta, Mark earned a B.B.A. in economics from the University of Georgia and an M.B.A. from the University of North Florida. He has completed further graduate work in economics at the University of Florida. He also completed the National Association for Business Economics (NABE) Advanced Training in Economics program at Carnegie Mellon University.
Mark is a member of NABE and its inaugural Certified Business Economist class. Mark has been active in the Charlotte community, co-founding the NABE Charlotte chapter, The Charlotte Economics Club. He also recently served as board chair for the Foundation for the Charlotte Jewish Community and chaired the Economic Advisory Council for the California Chamber of Commerce for three years. He is a member of the Blue Chip economic forecasting panel and serves on the Joint Advisory Board of Economists for the Commonwealth of Virginia.
July 21, 2022
, 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM Our MBC Social is tomorrow, July 21st, at Brazwell's Pub 5-7:30 pm. Join us!
1627 Montford Dr.
Charlotte, NC
We hope to see you there!
Please RSVP yes!
August 3, 2022
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
There is free parking on the street until 9:00am There is also the Design Center Parking Deck located at 240 Doggett St. If you park in the deck, bring in your ticket to be validated.
Our Speaker will be April Whitlock.
April is the Head of Corporate Citizenship at LendingTree and Executive Director of the LendingTree Foundation. Although these are new roles for both April and LendingTree, LendingTree isn’t new to her. April initially joined the fintech company over 20 years ago when it was a start-up and has returned to lead the strategic development and execution of impactful trust-based giving programs and volunteerism across LendingTree’s U.S. footprint
April is a creative strategist who excels in helping organizations, which have included Foundation for the Carolinas and Carolina Pad, turning big ideas into successful ventures. Prior to LendingTree, April served as the Interim Director of Charlotte Corporate Affairs Professionals and was the business owner of Fundanoodle, a series of educational readiness products. In other entrepreneurial ventures, April started the Charlotte market for Mom Corps, a staffing firm for professional parents seeing flexible jobs so they can contribute at home and at work.
A Duke University graduate and Charlotte native, April values the importance of community and volunteers for The Lunch Project and Children’s Theatre Charlotte, to name a few. She has been named as Charlotte Business Journal’s “40 Under 40” and Mecklenburg Times’ “50 Most Influential Women.” She currently serves on the City of Charlotte’s Art & Culture Advisory Board.
In her free time, April enjoys exploring Charlotte with her husband, children and dogs.
August 17, 2022
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
There is free parking on the street until 9:00am There is also the Design Center Parking Deck located at 240 Doggett St. If you park in the deck, bring in your ticket to be validated.
This week MBC will forgo a regular speaker and instead be focusing on our membership and how to grow. Since Covid started, our membership has been reduced to just over 50 members with attendance at meetings between 25 and 30 members plus guests. The board is dedicated to maintaining a strong and active membership.
We are excited to announce a plan that includes a friendly competition to grow MBC. This week we will kick off a team competition where all of MBC will be divided into 7 teams led by the 7 board members.
- The goal is for each team to focus on attracting prospective business owners to join MBC.
- At the end of the year, the team that has added the most new members will be given a dinner at a restaurant of your choice to celebrate your success.
We will have a short discussion during this week’s meeting and then break out into your teams to discuss further.
We look forward to having you attend and be a part of this new member effort.
September 7, 2022
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
There is free parking on the street until 9:00am There is also the Design Center Parking Deck located at 240 Doggett St. If you park in the deck, bring in your ticket to be validated.
Our Speaker will be Scot Nowokunski.
Scott grew up as a chess-playing Legomaniac with just enough ADD to keep things interesting. He was that 9-year old kid that played chess for an entire summer and conquered Legos before they were pre-defined sets based on movie themes. In between he learned how to program in BASIC on the family Radio Shack TRS Model III computer with 32 kb of RAM. Good times.
Oddly enough that translated into becoming President of Boingo Graphics - the family printing business started by Ed Nowokunski in 1979. As President, Scott has been able to satisfy his need to build things by initiating and negotiating three commercial printing acquisitions and leading the charge on starting a fourth, our customer engagement platform Beanstalk Data. (Beanstalk Data was eventually acquired by Global Payments in February of 2016).
Scott is not a Charlotte native but he has lived here since he was 7 years old. He's married to Kelly and they have three boys - Jake (23), Adam (21) and Cody (19). All three are Eagle Scouts and one attends the best football school in North Carolina. Go App!.
September 21, 2022
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
There is free parking on the street until 9:00am There is also the Design Center Parking Deck located at 240 Doggett St. If you park in the deck, bring in your ticket to be validated.
Our speaker will be Scott Weatherup. Scott is the owner of C&D Landscapes, a residential design, build, and maintain company. The passion he brings to his company started back when he was twenty years old and made a wildly unique decision that completely changed the track of his life. It moved him away from everything he had ever know and placed him on a path that could have never been imagined.
His passion for being outside, his love of natures beauty, and a design ability, that should not exist in a kid who grew up in a condo, Scott has built a landscape company that has performed above even his expectations. C&D Landscapes has been adding to the beauty of the greater Charlotte area for over twenty years now.
The business started when he made another drastic path changing decision at thirty years old. Scott hung up his suit and tie and returned to school for horticulture. He is now a certified landscape designer with additional certifications in landscape management, landscape maintenance, and pesticide application along with accreditations from the interlocking concreate paver institution. Scott is also a North Carolina Landscape Contractor, Irrigation Installer and Plants Professional.
Scott’s desire to make people’s homes a place of relaxation, comfort, and beauty continues to keep C&D Landscapes a rising name in the industry.
September 22, 2022
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Our MBC Social is tomorrow, September 22nd, at Assorted Table Wine & Shop 5-7:30 pm. Join us!
7th Street Market
Uptown Charlotte
We hope to see you there!
Please RSVP yes and mark your calendar so you don’t forget!
See you there!!
October 5, 2022
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
There is free parking on the street until 9:00am There is also the Design Center Parking Deck located at 240 Doggett St. If you park in the deck, bring in your ticket to be validated.
Our Speaker will be Samantha Baier. Samantha is the Director of Integrated Marketing for Charlotte FC, where she manages the creation of brand-building campaigns, designs fan-focused events and maximizes matchday experiences. Prior to joining Charlotte FC full-time, she worked on the partnerships team across both CLTFC and the Carolina Panthers, charged with monetizing the teams’ digital channels, including developing unique digital programs to maintain partnership revenue during the Covid-19 pandemic. Before joining the team side, she served as the Director, Digital Sports at Taylor, a mid-sized public relations agency with a deep history of activating client partners’ sports sponsorships. In her six years at Taylor, Samantha developed and executed digital and social media campaigns for clients like P&G’s Olay and Tide, Mercedes-Benz and Crown Royal.
October 19, 2022
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
There is free parking on the street until 9:00am There is also the Design Center Parking Deck located at 240 Doggett St. If you park in the deck, bring in your ticket to be validated.
Our speaker will be our very own Lena Lumelsky, Founder and CEO of Woland Web.
Before starting Woland Web in 2005, Lena had a successful career in Investment Banking IT – Including Goldman Sachs, DeutscheBank, and Merrill Lynch. Lena holds B.S. and M.S. degrees in Computer Science from the University of Michigan. She lives with her husband and three daughters in Charlotte, NC.
See you on the 19th!
October 20, 2022
, 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM Our MBC Social is tomorrow, Oct 20th, at Brazwell's Pub 5-7:30 pm. Join us!
1627 Montford Dr.
Charlotte, NC
We hope to see you there!
Please RSVP yes!
November 2, 2022
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
There is free parking on the street until 9:00am There is also the Design Center Parking Deck located at 240 Doggett St. If you park in the deck, bring in your ticket to be validated.
Our speaker will be Dr. Williams. Dr. Jerome Williams, Jr is a practicing interventional cardiologist and senior vice president of Consumer Engagement and Corporate Health for Novant Health (NH). Born and raised in New York, Dr. Williams attended the City College of NY, earned his medical degree from New York University School of Medicine, completed an internal medicine residency at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, and cardiology fellowship at Yale University. Recently he completed his MBA from Wake Forest University School of Business.
Over the decades Dr. Williams has appreciated the opportunity to add value to a variety of divisions throughout Novant in his role as medical director of research, chairman and chief of cardiology, and member of the Heart and Vascular Institute system council. In addition to his strategic leadership role as SVP, Dr. Williams serves as a physician leader on the NH Health Equity Council, and the NH CEO Growth and Strategy Council. He also serves as vice chairman for the NH Accountable Care Organization, and board member of NH Medicare Share Savings Program. Through the constellation of clinical and business activities Dr. Williams strives to bring greater value to patients through collaboration across disciplines, creating alignment to enable growth and accountability for the clinical outcomes, social impact and associated financial risk of healthcare consumers of all communities.
Over the years Dr. Williams has served on a number of local boards and committees. He was one of the founding members of the Carolinas Association for Community Health Equity (CACHE), as well as founding member of BP Basketball, Inc. He has engaged the Charlotte community through memberships and activities in a variety of businesses, universities, and organizations such as the Urban League of the Central Carolinas, the American Heart Association, One Charlotte Health Alliance, Harvey Gantt Center for African-American Arts+Culture, just to name a few. Currently he serves on the Wake Forest School of Business Charlotte Executive Board.
See you next Wednesday!
November 16, 2022
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
There is free parking on the street until 9:00am There is also the Design Center Parking Deck located at 240 Doggett St. If you park in the deck, bring in your ticket to be validated.
Our speaker will be our very own Adam Huth. Adam believes that if you've started a successful business once then you can do it again... unless you're just lucky.
Twenty years ago Adam started a high growth company, United Transcription. Eight years ago, ready to sell, he instead transitioned it into a lifestyle business and devoted his time toward building something new.
This Wednesday Adam shares his journey and lessons learned over the past eight years and reveals his latest venture, "Salty's Jukebox", a brick & mortar retail store deep in the country.
MBC members make the best MBC speakers. Grab someone you haven't seen lately and bring 'em out for this unique presentation.
December 1, 2022
, 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM This year's holiday party will be hosted by Ed Horne
2044 S Wendover Rd.
Charlotte, NC 28211
This is on the corner of Wendover Rd. and Forest Dr, one block from Sharon Rd, Please park along Forest Drive between Wendover Rd and Harris Rd. Please note Forest Drive crosses Wendover two times. The Forest Drive where Ed is located is one block in on Wendover from Sharon Rd. The house is white brick, two story. This will be on the left when coming in from Sharon Rd.
Lots of good food, good music and awesome people!
Please RSVP asap! When you RSVP, I'll assume you are bringing a guest.
Thanks and enjoy!
December 7, 2022
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
There is free parking on the street until 9:00am There is also the Design Center Parking Deck located at 240 Doggett St. If you park in the deck, bring in your ticket to be validated.
Our speaker will be our very own Matt Harvey. Matt will be speaking on his 20 years in Charlotte and starting his company, Leverage Technologies.
December 21, 2022
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM We hope to see everyone at our Annual Champagne Breakfast. We will have a deluxe breakfast catered by Byron’s with Champagne and Orange Juice. It has been a tremendous year of accomplishments and wonderful connections so come celebrate.
Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
We would love to see an extraordinary turn out for this last meeting of the year. If you haven't attended much this year, we'd love to see you next Wednesday.
Anyone who has ever been involved in MBC is welcome, please reach out to anyone you know who is no longer active or a member and extend an invitation.
It's important you RSVP and let me know if you are bringing a former member with you.
There is free parking on the street until 9:00am There is also the Design Center Parking Deck located at 240 Doggett St. If you park in the deck, bring in your ticket to be validated.
January 4, 2023
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
There is free parking on the street until 9:00am There is also the Design Center Parking Deck located at 240 Doggett St. If you park in the deck, bring in your ticket to be validated.
Our speaker will be Craig Snyder, owner of Language Academy of the Carolinas.
Happy New Year!
January 18, 2023
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
There is free parking on the street until 9:00am There is also the Design Center Parking Deck located at 240 Doggett St. If you park in the deck, bring in your ticket to be validated.
Our speaker will be Vince Smith, Strategic Business Director - Offshore Wind, HILTI
Thanks!
February 1, 2023
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
There is free parking on the street until 9:00am There is also the Design Center Parking Deck located at 240 Doggett St. If you park in the deck, bring in your ticket to be validated.
Our speaker will be Heidi Smith, Head of Strategy - Financial Services.
February 15, 2023
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
There is free parking on the street until 9:00am There is also the Design Center Parking Deck located at 240 Doggett St. If you park in the deck, bring in your ticket to be validated.
Speaker will be Andy Smith. Andy has been working as a professional artist since 1991. Mostly working in the field of comic books for major publishers such as Marvel, DC, Image, Acclaim, and, Cross Gen Ent. Not content with just comic book projects Andy has also done a variety of commercial jobs for clients such as Athlita Entertainment/ Chicago Bears, The Idaho Potato Commission, and Disney to name a few. Andy is also the best-selling author of “Drawing Dynamic Comics” published by Watson-Guptill in 2000. The book is currently in its seventh printing. Andy’s second book “Drawing American Manga Super-heroes” was published by Watson-Guptill in 2007. Currently, Andy is focusing on his own line of graphic novels through his imprint Astonishing Comics!
February 23, 2023
, 11:55 AM - 1:15 PM Let's meet for lunch at Dilworth Neighborhood Grill.
911 E. Morehead Street
Charlotte, NC 28204
http://www.dilworthgrille.com/
Please RSVP so we'll have an accurate head count for the reservation.
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC lunches, this is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
March 1, 2023
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Bryon's South End
101 W. Worthington Ave
Charlotte, NC 28203
There is free parking on the street until 9:00am There is also the Design Center Parking Deck located at 240 Doggett St. If you park in the deck, bring in your ticket to be validated.
Our speaker will be Kris Reid, Executive Director at Piedmont Culinary Guild. Kris is a chef by trade but turned in her chef coat to chase down experience and skills in segments across the industry. She received her culinary education in Guadalajara, MX, Los Angeles, CA and received a bachelor’s in food service management from Johnson and Wales University. In 2012 she co-founded, and has since been the Executive Director of, Piedmont Culinary Guild. Over the past decade she has covered professional roles across the culinary landscape including as a corporate executive chef, culinary event coordinator, director of operations, operations manager for a multi-unit concept and a chief operation officer for a direct to home meal delivery service. She has consulted for Carolina Farm Stewardship Association and the Center for Environmental Farming Systems on specialized projects. Kris also contracts to help small businesses building food safety plans and HACCP plans which help for them to execute specialized processes necessary to produce authentic culinary experiences for their guests. Kris was a U.S. Delegate for Slow Foods International in 2010, as well as a recipient of a NC Leading Age Award for her work in farm-to-institution.
March 9, 2023
, 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM Our MBC Social is Thursday, March 9th, at Assorted Table Wine & Shop 5:30-7:30 pm. Join us!
7th Street Market
Uptown Charlotte
We hope to see you there!
Please RSVP yes and mark your calendar so you don’t forget!
See you there!!
March 15, 2023
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM ***NEW LOCATION***
Project 658
3646 Central Ave
Charlotte, NC 28205
I had the privilege of being a part of the walkthrough this morning and the place is really nice. I think you'll be pleased. If you haven't been in a while, now would be a wonderful time to come back. I've been working for MBC for five years and there are a few of you I've never met! I would love to meet you Wednesday!
Also, there's plenty of parking!
This week our speaker will be Dr. Marcus Schuster. He will be speaking on a neglected topic in retirement.
Having a good nest egg isn’t the only thing you should be thinking about… Being physically ready and healthy for retirement is just as important as not running out of money. Marcus will touch on the 3 biggest non-financial things you should be working on before you retire. You’ll leave next Wednesday’s meeting with a short list of things to work on and keep top-of-mind to get and stay healthy!
March 23, 2023
, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Let's meet for lunch at Midwood Smokehouse.
540-C Brandywine Rd.
Charlotte, NC
980-237-7929
https://midwoodsmokehouse.com/location/park-rd-shoppingcenter/
It's behind the Park Road Shopping Center, which is at the corner of Park Rd and Woodlawn Rd.
Please RSVP so we'll have an accurate head count for the reservation.
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC lunches, this is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
April 5, 2023
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM ***NEW LOCATION***
Project 658
3646 Central Ave
Charlotte, NC 28205
Our Speaker will be Juan Garzon, Executive Director with Innovate Charlotte. Juan is the founder of the consulting firm The Garzón Company, and he has long begun client engagements with a needs assessment. The process is designed to understand the most pressing issues a company is facing so that Garzón can get to work on a solution. Now he’s doing the same at Innovate Charlotte: For the past few months, he’s been asking members of the entrepreneurial community what they need, and how Innovate Charlotte can help.
“We are in the process of finding opportunities and gaps and trying to turn the ship slowly in a direction that better serves our community,” Garzón said in a phone interview from his home, where he also serves as headmaster, lunch chef, and truant officer for his four children as they navigate the new homeschool normal. “The next step is to incorporate some of these changes and updates, and then we’ll start rolling out new programming and initiatives that I think will be very exciting for the community.”
April 13, 2023
, 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM Our MBC Social is Thursday, April 13th, at The Trolly Barn 5:00 to 7:30
2104 South Blvd,
Charlotte, NC 28203
Park at Atherton Mill – the Trolley Barn is adjacent to the Light Rail. Next to Indaco.
Unique beers, innovative cuisine and creative cocktails are all awaiting guests at South End’s latest restaurant and brewery, Trolley Barn Fermentory and Food Hall, which is now open adjacent to the Rail Trail at Atherton Mill.
“Our team has worked incredibly hard over the past year to develop something different with Trolley Barn, a whole new take on how to explore craft beer and hospitality. It’s rewarding to see it come to fruition,” said Trolley Barn owner Phil Buchy. “We’re excited to see what South End is really about.”
The Trolley Barn concept is a nod to the electric trolleys that began operating in Charlotte in 1891. Paying homage to the era that inspired it, the Trolley Barn identity fuses ornate typography of the art nouveau era with machinery found in warehouses like the trolley barns of the early 1900s.
Trolley Barn houses a brewery, taproom and three food stalls, each individually branded and offering its own distinct fare from award-winning Chef Gene Briggs. Guests will order food from any of the three Trolley Barn food stations at their tables or from seats at the bar. Behind the bar, Trolley Barn serves its own line of beers, plus a full cocktail program featuring classic and experimental recipes.
We hope to see you there!
Please RSVP yes and mark your calendar so you don’t forget!
See you there!!
April 19, 2023
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM ***NEW LOCATION***
Project 658
3646 Central Ave
Charlotte, NC 28205
Our Speaker will be Tom Donaldson. Tom is the Managing Partner and a Founder of the firm. He focuses his time on all aspects of the firm including its potential and existing portfolio investments as well as the firm's financial services to its clients.
Prior to founding Blystone & Donaldson, Tom was with Investors Management Corporation (IMC) and its predecessor, Morehead Capital Management, where he focused on executing transactions, managing investment risk and portfolio business operations. Previously, Tom was a partner with McGuireWoods where he represented investment funds and their portfolio companies. Tom's broad experience includes most aspects of structuring, financing and operating public and private companies in a wide variety of business operations.
Tom has recently served as a director on the corporate boards of Alliance Entertainment Holding Corporation, Legion Brewing Holdings, LLC and Group 6 Holdings, Inc. He has also previously served as a director on the boards of Arcadia Beverage, LLC, Fleet Feet, Inc., IDOC, LLC and Chop't Creative Salad Co., among others.
Tom serves a director and President of Creative Player Foundation, which provides funding for after school programs for underprivileged students. Previously, he served on the Boards of the Charlotte Sports Commission and the Charlotte Regional Partnership.
Tom received his MBA and law degrees from Villanova University and his undergraduate degree from North Carolina State University.
April 27, 2023
, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Let's meet for lunch at the Teal Turnip, owned by our very own Taylor Kastl.
1640 Oakhurst Commons Dr. Suite 105
Charlotte, NC
https://www.thetealturnipclt.com/
The Teal Turnip. Small. Plates. Bar.
New Age American, Haute Cuisine, Adventurous foodie, Fine Dining in a Tee Shirt.
A safe space to adult, Date Night spot, respectfully child free establishment. We have no high chairs, no kids menu, no chicken fingers.
Lunch and Dinner Wednesday through Saturday.
Live music and bar bites menu Tuesdays 5-8p, pets and children welcome on the patio for live music night.
Please RSVP so we'll have an accurate head count for the reservation.
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC lunches, this is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
May 3, 2023
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM ***NEW LOCATION***
Project 658
3646 Central Ave
Charlotte, NC 28205
Speaker to be announced soon.
May 11, 2023
, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Our MBC Social is Thursday, May 11th, at Assorted Table Wine & Shop 5:00-7:00 pm. Join us!
7th Street Market
Uptown Charlotte
There will be a Tango Dance Demonstration at 7 if you want to stay longer.
We hope to see you there!
Please RSVP yes and mark your calendar so you don’t forget!
See you there!!
May 17, 2023
, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM ***NEW LOCATION***
Project 658
3646 Central Ave
Charlotte, NC 28205
The speaker will be our very own John Cantrell. He will be speaking on 'Top things to think about to protect your business and family in 2023' and 'Building wealth and reducing taxes with Real Estate'
John F. Cantrell, CIC, is the President of H.B. Cantrell & Co, an independent insurance agency based in Charlotte, North Carolina . He joined the company in 1992 after graduating from East Carolina University with a degree in Finance. With over 30 years of experience in the insurance industry, John has learned the ins and outs of the agency and has carefully selected carriers to provide clients with the best level of service, price, and coverage. John is a Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) which is a professional designation that demonstrates his expertise in insurance and risk management. He is also a member of EO Charlotte. John is passionate about his work and has written articles sharing his life lessons as an insurance agent
With his extensive knowledge and experience, John is committed to providing his clients with the best insurance solutions to meet their needs.
H.B. Cantrell & Co. is an independent insurance agency based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Founded in 1974, the company is approaching 50 years in business. As an independent agency, H.B. Cantrell & Co. represents many different insurance companies, carefully selected to provide clients with the best coverage options. The company is dedicated to serving its clients with a team of agent advisors who work together to address all concerns. With a focus on personalized service, H.B. Cantrell & Co. is committed to helping clients manage the risks of everyday life. From auto and homeowners for individuals, to workers compensation, liability and business insurance for businesses, including life, disability and long term care insurance. www.hbcantrell.com to contact us.
C-5 Properties is a housing company that has been providing affordable housing to the community of Charlotte for the past 15 years. They have been working tirelessly to address the issue of homelessness in the city by providing safe and comfortable housing to those in need. They believe that everyone deserves a place to call home, and they work hard to make that a reality for the people of Charlotte. C-5 Properties is a company that is dedicated to making a positive impact on the community. Working with groups such as West Blvd Ministries, Hoskins Park Ministries, Running Works, and Covenant Presbyterian Church. They believe that by providing affordable housing, they can help to improve the lives of those who are struggling. Their commitment to excellence and their dedication to the community make them a company that is truly making a difference in the world.
May 25, 2023
, 12:00 AM - 1:00 PM Let's meet for lunch at the Community Matters Cafe,
821 W 1st Street
Charlotte, NC 28202
https://communitymatterscafe.com/
Community Matters Cafe is more than a place to eat, it's a life-skills program for students graduating from the Charlotte Rescue Mission - we restore hope.
Seating is limited to 12 so RSVP as soon as you can.
This is a great way to meet up with MBC members in a social setting. Like all MBC lunches, this is pay as you go and will not come out of the MBC budget. We look forward to seeing you there to mix and mingle with other members outside of the regular meeting.
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Metrolina Business Council
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