The 08-29-2025 Edition of The Charlotte Weekly South Charlotte
CHARLOTTE – SouthPark After 5 will return six times this fall, starting Sept. 4. Each event features live music, interactive family-friendly experiences, food trucks and mobile bars. e event is presented by SouthPark Community Partners and produced by Southern Entertainment.
“SouthPark After 5 is one of Charlotte’s signature events, delivering on our vision for a vibrant and connected neighborhood,” said Adam Rhew, president and CEO of SouthPark Community Partners. “As we
transform Symphony Park into a premier public green space, events like this illustrate the fun, safe and community-driven experiences that are core to SouthPark’s identity.”
e event runs from 5 to 9 p.m. every ursday from Sept. 4 to Oct. 10 at Symphony Park (Barclay Downs Drive and Carnegie Boulevard, adjacent to SouthPark Mall). Concerts are free to attend.
Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs to sit and picnic on the lawn. e event will host a wide variety of bands including
by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com
CHARLOTTE – Law enforcement agencies across the state will be increasing patrols and checkpoints from Aug. 25 to Sept. 7 as part of the state’s Booze It & Lose It campaign.
Mark Ezzell, director of the N.C. Governor’s Highway Safety Program, said the Booze It & Lose It campaign is designed to send the message that impaired driving will not be tolerated.
“We know that addressing impaired driving isn’t just an enforcement issue but you cannot do it without strong law enforcement involvement,” he said. “ ese o cers play a vital role in maintaining safe environments across North Carolina and preventing future tragedies from happening.”
Law enforcement officers will take impaired drivers into Breath Alcohol Testing units known as BATmobiles.
“ is is essentially a roving magistrate’s o ce and jail on wheels that allows law enforcement o cers to take someone they have stopped and immediately begin the process to have them go through the criminal justice system,” Ezzell said. “We want this campaign to serve as a reminder to all drivers to continue to pay close attention to driving.”
e campaign’s goal is to reduce alcohol-related crashes. Ezzell said there were 353 alcohol-related crash fatalities last year in North Carolina. So far this year, there have been 185.
These statewide numbers hit home for Charlotte, where local leaders have been working to curb crash injuries and fatalities.
Mayor Vi Lyles noted the city has been part of the Vision Zero Network since 2019. She described Vision Zero as a mindset reminding leaders that one tra c death is too many.
“It reinforces that everyone has a role to play, whether you’re behind the wheel, on a bike, crossing a street or designing transportation systems,” Lyles said. “As mayor, I believe we should all take this responsibility seriously.
I am committed to investing in safer infrastructure, expanding education and awareness, and supporting public safety teams in enforcing laws that keep us all safe.”
She called on residents to do their part by driving sober or speaking up when someone else should not get behind the wheel.
rock, country, soul and tribute bands.
e weekly entertainment lineup will include:
• Sept. 4: Java Band and free face painting.
• Sept. 11: Landslide
“We don’t accept fatalities as inevitable,” she said. “We believe they are a public health crisis and one we must be able to solve. Let’s move forward together: sober, alert and committed to a safer Charlotte for everyone.”
Her call for safer streets was echoed by Tony Lathrop, chair of the N.C. Board of Transportation, who pointed to sobering statewide and local crash data.
North Carolina tallied 11,399 alcohol-involved crashes last year, including 944 in Charlotte, according to Lathrop. He added that 38 of the 111 traffic deaths in Charlotte last year were alcohol-related.
Lathrop said the N.C. Department of Transportation strives to keep motorists safe.
“We're building roads now all over the state with new technology, new designs and management tools that have been proven by research to signi cantly reduce crashes,” he said. “You also need a strong public outreach e ort like those that our agency is working on with partners like the City of Charlotte and AAA.”
Soul Gastrolounge
SouthPark After 5 returns to Symphony Park this fall
free mobile library with Books on the House.
• Sept. 18: Coconut Groove Band and free mobile library with Books on the House. • Sept. 25: Bourbon Sons and free sun owers for the rst 500 attendees. • Oct. 2: Y2K Kids and free mobile library with Books on the House.
• Oct. 9: Petty Rewind and
State officials urge people not to drink and drive
Ti any Wright, public a airs director for AAA Auto Club Group, said her company is also committed to safety.
“Whether you’re stranded with a at tire or a dead battery alongside the road, AAA is going to be there,” Wright said. “Last year during the Labor Day holiday alone, we rescued 380,000 motorists nationwide.”
Wright also co-chairs the North Carolina Alliance for Safe Transportation. e nonpro t promotes safe driving behaviors across the state.
She said the four leading contributors to tra c injuries and fatalities are preventable. ose are impaired driving, distracted driving, speeding and not wearing a seat belt.
She said designated drivers, ride shares and AAA can prevent impaired driving. In the Charlotte area, AAA o ers a service to pick up drivers if they’ve had too much to drink and tow their vehicle home.
“We're your last line of defense because again, there's just no excuse to get behind the wheel impaired,” Wright said.
CHARLOTTE – Soul Gastrolounge has reopened to the public almost three years to the date of its closure.
More than twice the size of the original restaurant, the new space at 4100 Raleigh Street spans more than 4,700 square feet in its new home at e Pass, a mixed-use development in NoDa along the light rail.
The restaurant can seat up to 221, with a semi-private dining room for more intimate celebrations and an additional 30 seats on the outdoor patio.
“Walking into the new Soul should feel like seeing an old friend you haven’t seen in years but instantly pick back up with,” managing partner Andy Kastanas said. “We loved being the place where our guests celebrate milestones big and small, and that legacy matters to us. From the food to the design, every detail was to ensure those memories,
free pumpkin patch. The Sept. 18 event will include a special performance by North Carolina Brazilian Arts Project as part of the Charlotte International
CHARLOTTE – ArchWell Health is encouraging women 60 and older to prioritize and schedule their breast cancer screening early and in advance of October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month frenzy.
e healthcare company provides an advanced model of primary care for adults 60 and older. is marks the third year that ArchWell Health has been promoting mammogram screenings through its Pink Letter Project initiative.
“Mammograms are essential and honestly, the most easily available protocol for detecting breast cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages,” said Dr. Judith Ford, chief clinical o cer at ArchWell Health. “Distressingly, an astounding one in four women between the ages of 50 and 74 are not up to date with their breast cancer screen - a concerning gure given that breast cancer causes more than 42,000 deaths in women each year in the United States.”
Many factors can hinder women from scheduling and receiving their regular mammogram screen. Some of them are as follows:
• Lack of awareness and information: Some women may not be fully informed on the importance of regular screenings, the procedure itself or insurance coverage. Lack of knowledge often leads to misconceptions about the importance and e ectiveness of screening.
• Socioeconomic factors: Concerns about the cost of mammograms, including copayments or deductibles, and even lack of health insurance, especially for women with limited insurance or low incomes, are often top of mind.
• Psychological fears: Some women may avoid scheduling and receiving their regular screen because of a fear of receiving an abnormal result or breast cancer diagnosis. ey may also fear the actual screen, believing it will be uncomfortable and painful. ey may also believe they are too old to go through such pain.
• Scheduling constraints: Many women tend to delay scheduling until October, which is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, only to nd that screening centers are fully booked, leading to further delays or missed screenings.
• Screening access: Inadequate access to healthcare providers, a lack of provider recommendation or endorsement for a screen, di culties with transportation to screening facilities, and social isolation can limit the desire and ability to schedule and attend screening appointments.
• Age misperceptions: Some maturing women may perceive their life expectancy is limited, leading to a lack of motivation or belief in the bene ts of continued and regular screening.
ArchWell Health’s Pink Letter Project addresses barriers women 60 and older face in their breast cancer screening journey. What this means for members
Tribute to Fleetwood Mac and
Arts Festival.
Mayor Vi Lyles welcomed members of the N.C. Governor’s Highway Safety Program and its partners to Charlotte on Aug. 20 to explain the campaign and urge motorists not to drive drunk. Photos by David Flower/City of Charlotte
Tony Lathrop, chair of the N.C. Board of Transportation, asked for a commitment from everyone in the public to be safe on the roads. “It can’t be said enough: don’t speed, avoid distractions, wear seat belts, and of course never drink and drive,” he said.
Law enforcement officers will step up patrols now through Labor Day weekend.
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Luncheon honors Charlotte’s nonprofit community
CHARLOTTE – AFP Charlotte will celebrate the generosity, leadership and positive impact of Charlotte’s philanthropic community during National Philanthropy Day 2025: Capes to Causes.
e annual luncheon recognizes people and organizations whose passion and dedication strengthen Charlotte.
This year’s event spotlights 11 outstanding honorees whose work touches lives throughout the community:
• Champion of Diversity: Shereese Floyd.
• Philanthropic Small Business: Redline Design Group.
“ is is a celebration of the everyday heroes – neighbors, colleagues and community members whose dedication creates lasting change in Charlotte,” said Megan Blackburn, 2025 National Philanthropy Day Chair. “Just like superheroes, these individuals and organizations use their unique powers for good.”
e luncheon will feature stories of impact, opportunities to connect with leaders shaping Charlotte’s future and a shared commitment to building a stronger, more compassionate community.
The event starts at 11:30 a.m. Nov. 13 at e Revelry North End, Charlotte.
Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available at www. afpcharlotte.org/programs/ national-philanthropy-day/.
BUSINESS BRIEFS
Carolina Renaissance Festival hosting job fair
HUNTERSVILLE – e Carolina Renaissance Festival is hosting a job fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 6 at the festival fairgrounds, 16445 Poplar Tent Road, Huntersville.
e interactive event combines outdoor theater, circus, open-air arts and crafts fair, jousting tournament and feast into a daylong adventure Saturdays and Sundays, Oct. 4 to Nov. 23.
e festival hires 350 seasonal employees on an annual basis. e festival pays wages of $14 to $18 per hour plus free festival admission to share with friends and family.
“It is an opportunity to earn extra income with pride as you help contribute to the magic and merriment enjoyed by all ages at the festival,” said Matt Siegel, marketing and entertainment director.
Available positions are listed on carolina.renfestinfo.com/jobs. Direct questions to cr obs@renfestinfo.com.
Taziki’s Mediterranean Café launches Kýpelos
CHARLOTTE – Taziki’s Mediterranean Café has introduced Kýpelos, new customizable bowls now available at all locations for a limited time.
Guests choose a base of basmati rice, pasta with parmesan or quinoa, then add grilled vegetables, feta, harissa and Taziki’s signature sauce. Top the bowl with a choice of protein, such as chargrilled lamb, chicken kebobs, salmon or shrimp.
“Customization continues to shape the fast-casual landscape,” said Dan Simpson, CEO of Taziki’s. “Our Kýpelos bowls o er guests a new level of creative control while staying true to the Mediterranean lifestyle.”
On the web: tazikis.com
Ruby Sunshine elevates banana pudding
CHARLOTTE – Ruby Sunshine is dipping into fall decadence.
Starting Aug. 20, all locations will feature two banana pudding creations. Banana Pudding Beignets are lled with banana pudding cheesecake and topped with bananas foster sauce, vanilla wafer crumbs, whipped cream and a cherry. Banana Pudding Stu ed French Toast layers
brioche with the same lling and toppings.
“This menu is our way of celebrating fall flavors while staying true to Ruby’s creative, non-conventional approach to brunch,” Chef Marla Chu said.
On the web: rubybrunch.com
Bobby’s Burgers launches giveback campaign
CHARLOTTE – Bobby’s Burgers By Bobby Flay is launching two programs that support schools and local communities.
The Force4Good fundraising program lets schools and student groups host events at Bobby’s Burgers.
Approved groups receive yers, social posts and an event webpage. Twenty percent of sales go back to the group. Guests in Charlotte can also use GiftAMeal to support Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina. By scanning a QR code, snapping a photo and sharing it on social media, they provide meals to families in need.
“Giving back starts close to home,” President Michael McGill said. “ ese programs allow our guests and neighbors the opportunity to provide direct support where they live.”
Charlotte Area Chamber events
CHARLOTTE – e Charlotte Area Chamber of Commerce o ers networking opportunities, including ribbon cuttings.
• Members learn about health plans offered through Carolina Healthworks from 11 a.m. to noon Sept. 3 at Alchemy Cowork, 2459 Wilkinson Blvd., Charlotte. Register in advance.
• Members celebrate the grand opening of Madison Ashley Park Apartments from 4 to 6 p.m. Sept. 3 at 2220 Berryhill Road, Charlotte. e ribbon will be cut at 4:30 p.m. Register in advance.
• Members celebrate the grand opening of Sure Foundation Behavioral Health Services from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 4 at 401 N. Myers St., Charlotte. e ribbon will be cut at noon. Register in advance.
• Members network during Connect After 5 from 5 to 7 p.m. Sept. 4 at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Charlotte Southend, 1617 S. Tryon St., Charlotte. Register in advance.
Visit charlotteareachamber.com to learn more
about the chamber and its events.
Matthews Area Chamber events
MATTHEWS – e Matthews Area Chamber of Commerce plans for its upcoming Business Luncheon.
• The chamber spotlights nonprofits during its Business Luncheon from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 10 at Christ Covenant Church, 800 Fullwood Lane, Matthews. Members pay $20 in advance. Others pay $25. Other seating packages are available. Register in advance.
Visit matthewschamber.org to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Mint Hill Chamber events
MINT HILL – e Mint Hill Chamber of Commerce hosts Co ee Connections.
• Members network during Coffee Connections from 8 to 9 a.m. Sept. 5 at East Mint Apartments, 13330 Maize Lane Charlotte. Register in advance.
Visit minthillchamberofcommerce.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Union County Chamber events
MONROE – e Union County Chamber of Commerce hosts a ribbon cutting.
• Members celebrate the grand opening of Spanish for Fun, which o ers Spanish immersion childcare and preschool, from 3 to 3:30 p.m. Sept. 5 at 9917 Rea Road, Marvin. Register in advance.
Visit unioncountycoc.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.
Quick Hits
• Bojangles is bringing back its Pork Chop Griller for a limited time. It is a tender pork chop, marinated and seared, served on a made-fromscratch buttermilk biscuit.
• The Collection is welcoming residents to its second community of townhomes, Charles Ave, in NoDa. Charles Ave features 32 townhomes ($2,949 and up) and six boutique ats ($2,899 and up).
• Ovens Auditorium has diverted nearly 1,000 pounds of waste from entering the land ll since partnering with Bold Reuse to replace single-use cups for alcohol with a reusable cup program.
CRTPO seeks feedback on plans
CHARLOTTE – The Charlotte Regional Transportation Planning Organization has opened a 30-day public comment period for the 2026-2035 Draft Transportation Improvement Program, amendments to the 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan, and the air quality conformity determination report for the MTP and TIP.
e 30-day public comment period will end at 5 p.m. Sept. 19. is public comment period o ers an additional opportunity for residents, business
The Mint Museum launching photography initiative
CHARLOTTE – The Mint Museum is preparing to house one of the premier photography collections in the Southeast thanks to a multi-year gift from Bank of America.
e Mint will receive more than 1,000 photographs over the next ve years. is will double the museum’s photography collection. e rst group of photographs arrived at the museum in mid-August. ey feature a selection
owners and others within the Charlotte Urban Area (Iredell, Mecklenburg and portions of Union County) to submit feedback. CRTPO’s TIP is a subset of NCDOT’s State Transportation Improvement Program.
e draft project lists and maps are posted on the 2026-2035 TIP page of the CRTPO website.
Residents may provide comments in the following ways:
• Email email@crtpo.org (include 20262035 TIP in the subject line of the email).
• Mail feedback to CRTPO,
of photographs from the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries. is initial group of images emphasizes the work of Southern photographers.
e creation of a dedicated photography gallery will ensure that photography installations are always on view at the Mint and serve as a resource for artists, educators and students. It will expand access to world-class photography, support artist development and inspire public programming.
“Photography is one of the most accessible and dynamic mediums today,” said Todd A. Herman, president and CEO of e Mint Museum. “It re ects how we see the world and how the world sees us. is transformative gift allows us to share powerful stories, cultivate new talent and serve our community in new and meaningful ways.”
Some of the most signi cant names in photography are featured in the donation, including Richard Avedon, Chuck Close, Rineke Dijkstra, Lee Friedlander, Lyle Ashton Harris, Candida Höfer, Sally Mann, Robert Mapplethorpe, Richard Misrach, Catherine Opie,
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center, 600 E. Fourth St., 8th Floor, Charlotte, NC 28202.
• Speak during the Sept. 24 and Oct. 15 CRTPO board meetings, which are held at 6 p.m. at the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center, 600 E. Fourth St., Room 267. ose who wish to speak must sign up at least ve minutes prior to the start of the meeting. e CRTPO board is anticipated to adopt the 2026-2035 TIP, amendments to the 2050 MTP and the air quality conformity determination report during the Oct. 15 meeting.
Irving Penn, Raghubir Singh, Paul Strand, William E. Williams and Garry Winogrand.
“We believe investing in the arts has a positive impact on our lives and enriches the local communities we serve,” said Kieth Cockrell, president of Bank of America Charlotte. “ e donation of these photographs is part of our continuing commitment to creating a brighter future for Charlotte.”
As the bank has grown over the past several decades, it acquired various art collections from legacy institutions like NCNB and LaSalle Bank, which were purchased to decorate o ces. Today, this “collection of collections” is composed of more than 20,000 works.
To further support the expansion of this collection, e Mint plans to:
• Launch a "Friends of Photography" support group to help grow the collection and build community connections.
• Host a major photography exhibition in 2027 celebrating the gift, organized by Jen Sudul Edwards, chief curator and curator of contemporary art.
Sneakers on display at The Mint Museum
CHARLOTTE – “Future Now: Virtual
Sneakers to Cutting-Edge Kicks” explores the evolution of shoes, from 19th-century breakthroughs to today’s boundary-pushing designs built for the metaverse.
e exhibit brings together approximately 60 footwear designs from the Bata Shoe Museum’s collection as well as loans from institutions, private collectors, visionary designers and inventors around the globe.
Featured designers include trailblazers such as Salehe Bembury, Steven Smith, RTFKT, Mr. Bailey, Zaha Hadid, Nike ISPA, Safa Şahin, EKTO VR, Saysh, Benoit Méléard and SCRY.
e exhibition, organized into ve sections, begins with an overview of new technologies and materials from the 19th and 20th centuries and includes some of the earliest sneakers, made in the 1890s.
e historical context of the show traces the shift from artisan shoemaking in the 19th century to mass production, highlighting the
resulting cultural, social and environmental challenges. e contemporary designers re ect on this legacy while imagining more inclusive, eco-conscious and technologically advanced futures.
“Incredible and innovative new footwear designs promise to transform what we will wear tomorrow,” said Elizabeth Semmelhack, curator of the exhibition and director and senior curator of the Bata Shoe Museum. “From sneakers created to address sustainability and inclusion to shoes that blur the line between the real world and the metaverse, this exhibition explores how forward-looking creators are helping us step into the future.”
e exhibit is organized in collaboration with the American Federation of Arts and the Bata Shoe Museum.
Special Events
Party in the Park | Sneakspeaks Oct. 26, 1 to 5 p.m.
Mint Museum Randolph | FREE e Mint will host a community celebration during Party in the Park at Mint Museum Randolph. e event will include free museum admission, a custom sole station in collaboration with Shoedio, a panel discussion about sneaker concepts and design, a sneaker stroll and sneaker battle, plus food trucks, a live DJ and a cash bar.
Public talk with Elizabeth Semmelhack Nov. 16, 2 to 3 p.m.
Mint Museum Randolph | FREE Bata Shoe Museum Director and Senior Curator Elizabeth Semmelhack is one of the bestknown shoe historians today. Semmelhack will explain why shoes matter, what they say about us and how designers are revolutionizing what we will put on our feet tomorrow. Semmelhack has curated over 20 exhibitions and authored more than 30 articles and books, including “Out of the Box: e Rise of Sneaker Culture.”
Aug. 29
Matthews Alive
The four-day Matthews Alive festival kicks off with food, sponsor exhibits, amusement rides and live music in downtown Matthews. Performers include Carolina Barnburners (6:308 p.m.) and Band of Oz (8:30-10 p.m.). matthewsalive.org 4-10 p.m.; 129 S. Trade St., Matthews
Aug. 30
Holiday Parade
The Matthews Alive Labor Day Parade rolls through downtown Matthews. The parade winds through North Trade Street (turning left from Matthews Street) and turns right onto West John Street. It ends at Christ Covenant Church. matthewsalive.org
9:30 a.m.; Trade Street, Matthews
All White Blush CLT holds its Labor Day All White Extravaganza with food, hookah and $5 drinks. RSVP. 10 a.m.-2 a.m.; 7631 Sharon Lakes Road, Charlotte
Matthews Alive
The four-day Matthews Alive festival continues with food, sponsor exhibits, small shops, amusement rides, carnival and live music in downtown Matthews. Mainstage performers include Jim Shafer (11 a.m.-4 p.m.), Nathan Morgan Band (4:30-6 p.m.), Petty Rewind (6:30-8 p.m.)
ARCHWELL from 1A
includes the following:
• Proactive outreach: ArchWell Health’s Pink Letter Project drives education and action urging women to understand their breast cancer risks, the significance of proactivity, and importance of prioritizing and scheduling regular and early screens in advance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October.
• Personalized information and support: ArchWell Health provides members who are due for screening with personalized letters containing information on the importance of breast health, guidance on how to easily schedule a mammogram and a list of nearby screening centers. These
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
and Tina Turner Tribute (8:30-10 p.m.). matthewsalive.org
10 a.m.-10 p.m.; 129 S. Trade St., Matthews
Family Storytime
Families engage in stories and songs during Family Storytime at SouthPark Regional Library. Get a ticket at the children’s desk before the program starts. cmlibrary.org/locations/ SouthPark-Regional
10:15-10:45 a.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte
Book Signing
Janet Sarjeant signs copies of her book, “Half Year, Half Light,” at Park Road Books. parkroadbooks. com
2-3:30 p.m.; 4139 Park Road, Charlotte
Aug. 30-31
R&B Summer Festival
The Queen City R&B Summer Festival features music from the 1980s (1 p.m.), 1990s (2 p.m.), 2000s (3 p.m.), line dance (4 p.m.) and new R&B (5 p.m.) at Blush CLT. Free entry. RSVP. 1-6 p.m.; 7631 Sharon Lakes Road, Charlotte
Aug. 31
Matthews Alive
The four-day Matthews Alive festival continues with food, sponsor exhibits, small shops, amusement rides, carnival and live music in downtown Matthews. Mainstage performers include Jim Shafer (1 p.m.-4 p.m.), 90 Proof (4:30-6 p.m.), KRVE (6:30-8 p.m.) and Don Jovi Bon Jovi Tribute (8:30-10 p.m.). matthewsalive.org 1-10 p.m.; 129 S. Trade St., Matthews
Sept. 1
Matthews Alive
The four-day Matthews Alive festival continues with food, sponsor exhibits, small shops, amusement rides, carnival and live music in downtown Matthews. Mainstage
letters also include order forms that simplify the process of obtaining the necessary paperwork for the screening.
• Community engagement: The project extends beyond individual outreach, with ArchWell Health centers hosting social and educational events running through Oct. 31. They also provide postcards for members to send to friends and loved ones.
• Improving accessibility: ArchWell Health centers assist in locating screening centers and offer transportation assistance.
• Dedicated primary care: Through sensitive and one-on-one care, ArchWell physicians facilitate longer appointment times, ensure members are fully educated and informed on all aspects
performers include Jim Shafer (9 a.m.-1 p.m.), The Castaways (1:303 p.m.) and Y2K Kids (3:30-5 p.m.). matthewsalive.org 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; 129 S. Trade St., Matthews
Sept. 2
Baby Storytime
Children ages 0-2 listen to stories and songs during Baby Storytime at Pineville Library. Pick up a ticket at the front desk 15 minutes before the event starts. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Pineville
9:30-10 a.m.; 505 Main St., Pineville
Toddler Storytime
Toddlers build literacy skills through music and stories during Toddler Storytime at SouthPark Regional Library. Get a ticket at the children’s desk before the program. cmlibrary. org/locations/SouthPark-Regional 9:30-10 a.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte
Family Storytime
Families engage in literacy activities during Family Storytime at South County Regional Library. Get a ticket at the children’s desk 15 minutes before the program. cmlibrary.org/ locations/south-county-regional 10-10:30 a.m.; 5801 Rea Road, Charlotte
Conversation Club
Adults practice speaking Portuguese during Portuguese Conversation Club at South County Regional Library. cmlibrary.org/locations/ south-county-regional 10-11 a.m.; 5801 Rea Road, Charlotte
Family Storytime
Families engage in stories and songs during Family Storytime at SouthPark Regional Library. Get a ticket at the children’s desk before the program starts. cmlibrary.org/locations/ SouthPark-Regional
10:15-10:45 or 11-11:30 a.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte
relating to their breast cancer journey, and address all concerns a member may have regarding breast cancer screening.
• ArchWell Health centers: ArchWell Health has more than 67 primary care centers across 11 states serving as hubs of information and special events for members.
“Through our Pink Letter Project, we are tackling barriers that dissuade proactive breast cancer screening and encouraging our members to get their mammogram screen,” Ford said. “Early detection means early treatment, which also means the best of best outcomes, especially for a population where breast cancer diagnoses increase with age.”
On the web: archwellhealth.com
Baby Storytime
Children ages 0-2 engage in stories and songs during Baby Storytime at South County Regional Library. Registration at the children’s desk starts 15 minutes before the program. cmlibrary.org/locations/ south-county-regional 11-11:30 a.m.; 5801 Rea Road, Charlotte
Global Cafe
Adults practice speaking English in conversation during Global Cafe at SouthPark Regional Library. cmlibrary.org/locations/ SouthPark-Regional 1-2 p.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte
Craft & Connect
Craft & Connect allows people to work on knitting or other arts and craft projects at SouthPark Regional Library. cmlibrary.org/locations/ SouthPark-Regional 6-7 p.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte
Book Club
The Banned Book Club discusses “Speak” by Laurie Halse Anderson at Park Road Books. parkroadbooks. com
6:30-7:30 p.m.; 4139 Park Road, Charlotte
Sept. 3
Outdoor Storytime
South County Regional Library holds a Family Storytime at Pineville Lake Park. Bring a blanket or chair. cmlibrary.org/locations/ south-county-regional 9:30-10 a.m.; 909 Lakeview Drive, Pineville
Toddler Storytime
Toddlers build literacy skills through music and stories during Toddler Storytime at SouthPark Regional Library. Get a ticket at the children’s desk before the program. cmlibrary. org/locations/SouthPark-Regional
and the chance to create new ones, are still part of the Soul experience.”
Soul first opened in 2009 at the heart of Plaza Midwood (Central and Pecan avenues) and gained popularity with globally inspired small plates and sushi, curated craft cocktails and its atmosphere. Its name reflects the collective “soul” of the nationalities, immigrants, and cultures who brought their flavors to Charlotte and helped shape the city.
The interior was brought to life by designer Scott Weaver, a longtime collaborator who helped ensure the space feels both fresh and familiar, along with Cluck Design as project architect and Gais Construction as general contractor.
Longtime fans will recognize many of the original Soul’s design elements reimagined in the new space. The taxidermy peacock and the haunted mirror from Tattoo have returned. The DJ booth and bar have been repurposed and rebuilt by Reaching Quiet Design using materials from the original Soul.
Music remains central to the Soul experience. Behind the decks are returning Soul resident deejays That Guy Smitty, Shanti Love and Scott Weaver, along with newcomers Suadade and See Bird Go, among others.
9:30-10 a.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte
Toddler Storytime
Children ages 2-3 build literacy skills through stories and songs during Toddler Storytime at Pineville Library. Pick up a ticket at the front desk 15 minutes before the program starts. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Pineville
10-10:30 a.m.; 505 Main St., Pineville
Family Storytime
Families engage in stories and songs during Family Storytime at SouthPark Regional Library. Get a ticket at the children’s desk before the program starts. cmlibrary.org/locations/ SouthPark-Regional 10:15-10:45 or 11-11:30 a.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte
Preschool Storytime
Children ages 3-5 build literacy skills through stories and songs during Preschool Storytime at South County Regional Library. Get a ticket at the children’s desk 15 minutes before the start of the program. cmlibrary. org/locations/south-county-regional 11-11:30 a.m. 5801 Rea Road, Charlotte
Sept. 4
Family Storytime
Families engage in literacy activities during Family Storytime at Pineville Library. Get a ticket at the front desk 15 minutes before the program starts. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Pineville 9:30-10 a.m.; 505 Main St., Pineville
Toddler Storytime
Toddlers build literacy skills through music and stories during Toddler Storytime at SouthPark Regional Library. Get a ticket at the children’s desk before the program. cmlibrary. org/locations/SouthPark-Regional 9:30-10 a.m.; 7015 Carnegie Blvd., Charlotte
The menu features favorites like the Asian Glazed Pork Belly Tacos, Lamb Lollipops and Korean Barbecue Wings.
Leading the kitchen is Chef de Cuisine Shiki Brewer, formerly the executive chef at The Crunkleton and a finalist on “Guy’s Grocery Games.” She’s joined by Executive Sous Chef Wanda Orick, who returns after serving as Soul’s original sous chef, and Sushi Chef Joe Thu, who created Soul’s original sushi menu.
On the beverage side, Diageo’s Top U.S. Bartender Stevie Laws leads the cocktail program, joined by Assistant Beverage Director Jacob Taylor. General Manager Yuri Oliviera, formerly of Napa on Providence, and
Director of Operations Jeff Jennings (Mythos, Cosmos and Salamandra) round out the leadership team.
“The magic is in our special mix of Mediterranean-inspired small plates, sushi and cocktails shaken with our brand of old-world charm and poured over our signature blend of house music,” Kastanas said. “Breathing life back into Soul now gives us the opportunity to honor our 15-year history while embracing a new future in a growing and changing city. “It may be a new chapter, but it’s still the same Soul.” Visit soulgastrolounge. com to make reservations.
SOUL GASTROLOUNGE from 1A
The menu includes sushi, pork belly tacos and Greek salad. Photos courtesy of Soul Gastrolounge
Matthews Alive returns to downtown Matthews from Aug. 29 to Sept. 1. One of the highlights of the festival is the Matthews Alive Parade on Aug. 30. CMG file photo
Pink Cupcake Walk supports breast cancer fighters, survivors
Summer special for ages 18-23!
is
year.
e fth annual Pink Cupcake Walk & Breast Cancer Lap, presented by Audi Charlotte, will take place from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 4 at Truist Field, 324 S. Mint St. Participants will don pink attire (along with green and teal signifying metastatic breast cancer) in commemoration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. ey’ll walk one mile around the baseball eld and receive a mini cupcake from a local bakery after each of the four laps. Bakeries participating in this year’s event include Kupkake Kouture Charlotte, Dream Cupcakes, Sunshine’s Southern Kitchen and Dariela’s Sweet Taste.
“ e Pink Cupcake Walk is a truly special event lled with sweetness, smiles and unforgettable moments,” said Susan Evren, executive director of Go Jen Go. “We are honored to be part of this annual celebration, lifting up breast cancer survivors and thrivers,
supporting those in the ght and remembering those we have lost.”
Survivors, ghters and thrivers will take a celebratory lap following the Pink Cupcake Walk. Participants who need mobility assistance are welcome to use their personal scooters or sit in the stands and have a volunteer collect their cupcakes. An after-party celebration will follow the event with music, food and drinks.
Registration costs $40. Participants must sign up by Sept. 10 to be guaranteed a 2025 Pink Cupcake Walk baseball jersey. Register at https://bit.ly/2025PinkCupcakeWalk. e Go Jen Go Foundation provides critical support to families in the greater Charlotte area who are facing the nancial burden of a breast cancer diagnosis. e foundation supports more than 105 families per month and strives to provide assistance right when the patient needs it most. On the web: gojengo.org
Panda Fest bringing a feast of flavors to Charlotte
CHARLOTTE – Panda Fest has unveiled the vendor lineup for its Charlotte debut in September.
Now that you are an adult your parents no longer have the authority to make health care or financial decisions on your behalf if something were to happen to you.
You’re an Adult Now. Is Your Power of Attorney in Place? **Summer Legal Special for Ages 18–23!**
We are offering to prepare your Advance Medical Directive (health care power of attorney and living will) and Durable Power of Attorney (financial power of attorney) for a flat rate of $400, so you can choose who has the authority to act for you.
If you’re in an accident or become ill, your parents *can’t* make medical or financial decisions for you—unless you give them the legal power.
Call our office at 704-841-0661 for an appointment.
Special ends August 31, 2025.
Get protected with:
* Advance Medical Directive (Health Care POA & Living Will) * Durable Power of Attorney (Financial POA)
**Call 704-841-0661 to schedule your appointment today!**
e three-day panda-themed celebration will transform Ballantyne’s Backyard into a culinary wonderland featuring nearly 70 food vendors from across the country, a curated marketplace of almost 20 artisan and retail vendors, and live performances and entertainment.
e rst Panda Fest took place this past April, with the event selling out in several cities, including Atlanta, Boston, Seattle, Philadelphia and Minneapolis-Saint Paul. Attendees of Panda Fest’s Charlotte debut can expect a mix of vendors from across the country, including California and New York, as well as local favorites. “ e vendors are such an important part of the festival, and we have really focused on
nding and selecting restaurants and shops that truly represent the best parts of Asian cuisine and culture,” said BiuBiu Xu, founder of Panda Fest. “ ey help to create an experience where people connect with each other while sharing a meal, learning about a tradition, and sometimes even learning a vendor’s personal story. is helps Panda Fest truly feel like a celebration of the richness and diversity of AAPI culture, and we’re excited to bring the festival to Charlotte for the rst time.”
Panda Fest takes place from 4 to 9 p.m. Sept. 12, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sept. 13 and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sept. 14 at Ballantyne’s Backyard, 11611 N. Community House Road. General admission ($14) and VIP ($35) tickets are available on Eventbrite.com. Visit pandafests.com for details.
CHARLOTTE – The Go Jen Go Foundation
preparing for its sweetest event of the
The Go Jen Go Foundation is registering participants for its Pink Cupcake Walk & Breast Cancer Lap on Oct. 4 at Truist Field. Photo courtesy of Go Jen Go Foundation
CLASSIFIEDS
Translator ($39,354/yr) wanted in Matthews, NC to trans. tech. docs. btwn CHN & ENG; Trans. legal docs.; Interpret verbal convos. btwn plumbers, clients, suppliers & mgmt.; Assist in cust. svc. interactions, ensuring understanding of plumbing svcs., estimates & maint. instructions; Support training sessions, safety mtgs., & co. presentations by providing real-time trans.; Trans. project info btwn CHN & ENG for mktg., promo., branding. Min. Req.: Bachelor’s deg. in Translation, Linguistics, Comms., ENG, CHN, or rel. fields. 2 yrs exp. in prof. trans./interpretation btwn CHN & ENG. Exp. in tech., biz., or legal trans. & strong real-time trans. ability. Send resume to Xiaohong He, HAPPI PLUMBING CORP., 4011 Fincher Rd., Matthews, NC 28104 or via email to service@happiplumbing.com. Job Code 0724.
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION COUNTY OF MECKLENBURG CASE NO. 25CV033151-590
JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., Plaintiff, v. PRESTIGE CHARLOTTE, LLC, JUAN PABLO LOPEZ, FYSEL MARWAN ELHULU and ZANE ABDULLAH IMREISH, Defendant(s).
NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION
To Defendant: Fysel Marwan Elhulu
Take notice that a pleading seeking relief against you has been filed in the above-entitled action.
The nature of the relief being sought is as follows: Plaintiff seeks judgment against you for breach of contract and breach of continuing guarantees, together with recovery of attorney’s fees, costs, and such other relief as the Court deems just and proper.
You are required to make defense to such pleading not later than forty (40) days after the date of the first publication of this notice, exclusive of such date, and upon your failure to do so, the party seeking service against you will apply to the court for the relief sought.
This the 29th day of August, 2025.
Jill C. Walters, Attorney for Plaintiff Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, P.C. 2235 Gateway Access Point, Suite 220 Raleigh, NC 27607
Software Engineer III, F/T at Truist Bank (Charlotte, NC) Deliver highly complex solutions w/ significant system linkages, dependencies, associated risk. Lead & perform dvlpmt efforts such as analysis, dsgn, coding/creating, & testing. Oversee & participate in testing, implmtn, maintenance, & escalated support of Truist’s most complex solutions. Must have Bach’s deg in Comp Sci, CIS, Comp Engg, or related tech’l field + 6 yrs of progressive exp in s/ware engg or IT consulting positions. Must have at least 3 yrs exp w/ the following: supporting Production apps to fix mission critical production issues, enhance the applications to implmt additional features; working w/ CI/CD tools & technologies like Gitlab, Github, SourceTree & Bitbucket to deliver code to production environments; helping project architects & senior project leads in high level project dsgn, low level dsgn; applying broad functional knowl in reqmt gathering, analysis, dsgn, dvlpmt, testing, implmtn, & deployment of applications; planning & managing projects & solving complex problems by applying best practice; providing direction & mentoring less exp’d teammates; & utilizing exp w/: Spring, Java & J2EE, Restful API, Soap API, Agile, Rally, Jira, Jenkins, GitHub, GitLab, SVN, IBM MQ’s, Apache Kafka, Microservices, Windows/Linux/RHEL, Apache Maven, SQL DB, Confluence, OpTier, Splunk, XML, ServiceNow, JSON, SSL/TLS, Google Cloud Platform (GCP), Kubernetes, Docker, & Eclipse. Position may be eligible to work hybrid/remotely but is based out of & reports to Truist offices in Charlotte, NC. Must be available to travel to Charlotte, NC regularly for meetings & reviews w/ manager & project teams w/in 24-hrs’ notice. Apply online (https://careers.truist.com/) or email resume to: Paige.Whitesell@Truist.com (Ref Job #R0105619).
Decision Scientist III, F/T at Truist Bank (Charlotte, NC) Using an interdisciplinary approach of leveraging concepts from, produce analytic insights that help the LOB make informed, data-driven decisions w/ an objective of driving quantifiable, optimized business results in support of co. goals. Focus on high impact, visible analyses, & initiatives across multiple business models, covering banking channels, segments, & products. Must have a Bach’s deg in Data Science, Analytics, Statistics or related analytic field +5 yrs of progressive exp in quantitative analyst or research positions performing/utilizing the following: performing quantitative analysis & data analytics; statistical methods, incl a broad understanding of classical statistics, probability theory, econometrics, time-series, & primary statistical tests; linear algebra concepts for optimization, complex matrix operations, eigenvalue decompositions, & principal components; data cleansing & prep’n methodologies, incl regex, filtering, indexing, interpolation, & outlier treatment; Data Analysis techniques, EDA, Data Visualization to effectively communicate to stakeholders, clarify reqmts & make effective suggestions; Data Engg & ML-Ops to both effectively extract, transform, load the data & for further model deployment, incl model maintenance & operation; Natural Language Processing techniques & other related Deep Learning knowl; building & managing interactive dashboards in Adobe Analytics workspace to deliver actionable insights, address ad hoc mktg requests, & improve reporting efficiency through advanced segmentation & custom metrics; & utilizing exp w/: SQL, SAS, Python, R, SAS E-Miner, Tableau, Qlik, IBM DB2, Oracle, & Hue. In the alternative, employer will accept a Master’s deg in Data Science, Analytics, Statistics or related analytic field +5 yrs of exp in quantitative analyst or research positions performing/utilizing the aforementioned. Must have at least 2 yrs of decision science/analytics project mgmt exp w/ a diverse project focus & demonstrated results. Position may be eligible to work hybrid/remotely but is based out of & reports to Truist offices in Charlotte, NC. Must be available to travel to Charlotte, NC regularly for meetings & reviews w/ manager & project teams w/in 24hrs’ notice. Apply online (https://careers.truist.com/) or email resume to: Paige.Whitesell@Truist.com (Ref Job# R0105749).
FRI. AUG 29th
6PM-10PM Opening Night! Carolina Barnburners
6:30-8:00pm Band of Oz 8:30pm-10:00pm
Presented by Mixtape Side 2
Stumptown Park & Downtown Matthews MatthewsAlive.org
SUN. AUG 31st 1PM-10PM
Various genres on the Main Stage 4:30pm-8pm
“DON JOVI” Bon Jovi Tribute Band 8:30pm-10pm
CARNIVAL (only) OPENS
All-You-Can-Ride Wristband Night at the Carnival!
SAT. AUG 30th
10AM-10PM Parade 9:30am
NOTE: NEW ROUTE!
Kids’ Stage, & Small Shops open
Mixtape Side 1
Various genres on the Main Stage 4:30pm-8pm
“TINA TURNER TRIBUTE
MON. SEPT 1st 9AM-5PM
Keep the Vibe Going on the Main Stage Castaways & Y2K Kids 1:30pm-5pm
• THREE MUSIC STAGES! • INDOOR EXHIBITS! • KIDS’ ACTIVITIES! CARNIVAL RIDES! MIDWAY GAMES! FOOD VENDORS! SMALL SHOPS!
