Charlotte Happenings is your monthly guide to events and things to do in and around Charlotte, NC.
Issue link: http://charlottehappenings.epubxp.com/i/644028
MY charlotte PHOTO BY RAY SEPESY DANA RADER OWNER AND FOUNDER OF DANA RADER GOLF SCHOOL Tell us about yourself. How did you get to where you are today? I grew up playing golf at Mimosa Hills Golf & Country Club in Morganton, North Carolina, and I just knew that the game would be an important part of my life. I played on the men's golf team at Pfeiffer University, but I felt my passion was for teaching rather than for touring. Many of my staff members have literally grown up with me and they are a big part of why we are recognized as one of top 25 golf schools in the U.S. by GOLF magazine and the only Golf Channel Academy in the Carolinas. My managing partner, Julie Cole, and I are proud to represent North Carolina as two of Golf Digest's "Best Teachers in America." Over 12,000 students come through our doors each year, and I didn't get here all by myself! How would you describe Charlotte in 10 words or less? I need more than 10 words! October 4, 1980, was a perfect fall day; it was 73 degrees with Carolina blue skies. I drove into Uptown Charlotte for the frst time and I said, "I'm never going to leave; it's everything I've ever wanted." I found my home when I arrived in Charlotte. If someone is visiting Charlotte for the frst time, what should he or she do and see? They need to take advantage of all the amenities, from parks and golf courses to food, shopping, sports venues, museums and theaters. In your opinion, what are some of Charlotte's best-kept secrets? I don't think a lot of people understand that Charlotte is a city made up of a lot of small towns. It offers a great lifestyle. It's a city with a real sense of community. What are some of the must-see Charlotte attractions that you would recommend to friends and family? The U.S. National Whitewater Center, taking in a Carolina Panthers or Charlotte Hornets game, heading to the South Park neighborhood for great dining, from casual to upscale, and really good shopping. What are your favorite local restaurants? Trio Restaurant is the best. It's been consistent for 20 years; I've never had a bad meal or bad service. I also love Firebirds Wood Fired Grill and 131 Main. What is your favorite thing about Charlotte? I have to go back to the sense of belonging. I feel connected to the people here through my business and community service. The people are my favorite thing about Charlotte. Where are your favorite places to shop in Charlotte? Nordstrom, Dillard's and Belk. What's your favorite Charlotte memory? Meeting H.C. "Smoky" Bissell at the Park Hotel to interview for moving my school to Ballantyne. This was before the Internet, before Google, so I didn't know anything about him. I drove up and saw "A Bissell Hotel" [as part of the signage on the building] and I said, "Ooooh, he owns the building!" I'll never forget that. • • • 14 MARCH 2016