Charlotte Prowler Magazine-June 16th, 2015

TAKEOVER IN JACKSONVILLE Roaring Riot in the Jags Stadium Pool. Are you in this year?

TAKEOVErt

Much as the Panther’s 2015 has gone, so has that of Zack Lutrell and his Roaring Riot Charlotte-based Carolina Panther fan club. It’s been AWESOME. For the Panthers, the draft went very well, the team’s heavy hitters are back this year and in great shape and the team has re-signed franchise QB Cam Newton for five years. For Luttrell, he and his lovely wife just gave birth to a healthy son, his love for the Carolina Panthers LACROSSE AMERICAN LEGION MEMORIAL called STADIUM led him to an idea to bring ALL ofPRO the US Panther fanAT clubs together under one flag—collectively Lacrosse fans are ecstatic that spring has sprung and the Charlotte Hounds will again Union of the Roaring Riot. This caught onfield likeinwildfire, cat chapters quickly in many take the Midtownwith Charlotte.

The team is fast organizing becoming THE family states, favorite for flooding Luttrell and Co. with orders for membership/t-shirt Cam and Newton took a moment of the his oohs pro sports outings. Lacrosse is orders. fast, dynamic has just enough edge toout keep and ahhs coming.Roaring With reasonable prices,will a seriously awesome fan experience re-signing national press conference to mention Riot andticket the rest, be remembered as histoand now...the new Charlotte Foxes line-up, who can say just how fanatical Charlotteans ry. Much as the Panther’s faced adversity in recent years—Cam’s surgery, then auto accident, a losing early will become about Pro Lacrosse? Prowler Magazine has frequently hosted fun day tail2014 season and drama in the headlines, Luttrell faced adversity insip hiscraft pursuits.

Like and the live Panthers he kept gates where kids play lacrosse, adults beverages music sets the stage for an afternoon match that delivers pro sports excitement.

We encourage readers to his head up, sailed on and turned the ship around. The winds are always stronger near the top. Wonder mark your calendars for an upcoming game and enjoy an afternoon under the Carolina why we’re so fond of both the Panthers and Luttrell and his Unioin of the Roaring Riot? Take a look at their blue skies with your friends and family. For info: www.CharlotteHounds.com endeavors on the following pages. #keeppounding #doyouriot? Become a rioter: www.roaringriot.com.

AndUnioin

O N T H E P R O W L | B R I N G I N G I T 4 B R AY LO N

SIX YEAR OLD REPLACES RON RIVERA AS

PANTHERS NEW HEAD COACH A N D OT H E R T R U LY A M A Z I N G TA L E S F R O M T H E O F F - S E A S O N

June 2015 may go down as the coolest off-season month in Carolina Panther history. While there are no rivals, no big hits, no amazing TDs, we think that the NFL franchise, it’s players, staff, management, fans and the local community —are connecting on a level that marks a milestone for all involved. Do you agree?

Carolina fans love football and the Panthers have generally been darlings as long as they’re above .500.

But this—this—feels a lot like love.

Players loving where they play, management loving the direction things are going and the fans who love the game, well, they’re being loved right back. The leadership shown by Thomas Davis, battling back from an unprecedented three torn ACLs to play again—and maintain a dominant presence on and off the field, his elevation to the NFL’s Man of the Year and his dedicated focus to helping anyone within his reach has sparked something that can’t be bought or taught.

His personal commitment to using his station in life to do good is apparently infectious. The offseason Panther squad as a whole appears determined to tackle the problems at their doorstep with the same ferocity as they pummel opponents every

Sunday in-season. It’s contagious and has had an incredibly positive buzz teeming about the city swirling alongside bated

anticipation of watching our NFC South Champions compete in the season ahead.

Our captain Cam Newton—his stewardship now set officially in stone with a $103 million, five year commitment, is also emerging as that leader

that is paramount for teams who dream of joining those elite institutions that pervade history. Cam now appears to be at home, having shown his dedication and amazing skills in his initial tenure here in the Carolinas with record-setting performances and two back-to-back NFC South Championships. He’s now been rewarded with open arms by all.

And you can feel the change. It’s all smiles in Carolina right now.

Smiles and commitment. Commitment by the Panther organization which gives talented young players that much-needed vote of confidence. Commitment by each player to rise and grind daily for their teammates and their fans.

Some days that means sharing the spotlight with those in your community and bringing a smile to an otherwise average or gloomy day for just one individual in our community.

Recently, that day was Officially Braylon Beam day.

Braylon faces off daily with a formidable foe—one that we all fear and have been personally scarred by—cancer.

You wouldn’t know it from the beaming smile on his face. He does it bravely, confidently and his battle has rallied the warrior spirit in our Carolina Panthers to stand by his side.

Our friends at Union of the Roaring Riot rallied their numbers and hosted a very special event at Dilworth Grille dubbed Bring It 4 Braylon. Funds were raised for his medical treatments and the one-and-only Thomas Davis made the day by presenting Braylon with his own #58 Thomas Davis Panther jersey.

In the same week Braylon was named Head Coach of the Carolina Panthers in front of an assembled audience of his classmates—replacing Riverboat Ron Rivera himself—for a day! Panther team president Danny Morrison, the TopCats cheerleaders and the Purrcussion Drumline were on-hand to watch Braylon put his name to paper in front of his classmates.

Currently, the Make-A-Wish Foundation is working with his family to raise funds for his treatments. Braylon, a kindergartner at Rock Springs Elementary School in Denver, appeared on The Ellen DeGeneres Show and is the spark for the Panthers’ #JustKeepDancing movement to raise money for pediatric cancer. Braylon is receiving treatments at Presbyterian Hospital in Charlotte.

In Carolina, the troops are rallied and we appear to be able to take on anything that life—or opposing teams—can put in our way. #keeppounding

PANTHER

PANTHER FANS UNITED FOR GOOD It’s amazing what strength is found in numbers. Often, in Carolina, that number is 58. When Pro Bowl LB and NFL Man of the Year 2015 Thomas Davis isn’t schooling offenses he is teaching others to l ead by example. Recently he attended the Union of the Roaring Riot event Bring It 4 Braylon at Dilworth Grille and left behind a room full of smiles.

4PM-11PM

CANNED CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL

AUGUST 29, 2015 3PM til 7PM

Jackalope Jacks & Hare Of The Dog

Corner of N. Caswell Rd. & E. Seventh St.

WHO SAYS HAPPINESS DOESN’T COME IN A CAN?

CANSRECYCLEDBEERFEST.COM

RICK SPRINGFIELD September 5th, 2015 THE COMEDY ZONE RACHEL FEINSTEIN JUNE 18-20 RICH GUZZI HYPNOSIS SHOW JUNE 24-27 DS SANDERS JULY 1-4 DOMINIQUE JULY 9-11 KURT GREEN JULY 15 MOSHE KASHER JULY 16-18 JOKES ON THE FLY JULY 19 JOHNNY MILLWATER & FRIENDS JULY 21 DON “DC” CURRY JULY 23-25 JOHNNY MILLWATER JULY 28 STEVE BYRNE JULY 30-AUG 1 THE FILLMORE JUNE 16 CARLY RAE JEPSEN JUNE 19 JUICY J JUNE 25 MICHAEL FRANTI & SPEARHEAD JUNE 26 ALLMAN BROTHERS TRIBUTE JUNE 27 GILBERTO SAN ROSA JULY 10 FACE 2 FACE - BILLY JOEL & ELTON JOHN TRIBUTE JULY 11 CRAFT SESSIONS JULY 20 PRIMUS W/ DINOSAUR JR JULY 21 IRON & WINE AND BEN BRIDWELL JULY 25 RAEKWON AND GHOSTFACE KILLAH JULY 26 JOWELL & RANDY UPTOWN AMPHITHEATRE QUEEN CITY JAZZ FEST JUNE 20 BARENAKED LADIES JULY 8 TEDESCHI TRUCKS BAND W/ SHARON JONES JULY 15 311 JULY 24 ROB THOMAS JULY 28 MY MORNING JACKET JULY 29 GARRISON KEILLOR’S AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL AUG 14 COUNTING CROWS AUG 10 SUBLIME W/ ROME AUG 11 JIM GAFFIGAN AUG 15 OAR AUG 26 RICK SPRINGFIELD SEPT 5 ALT-J SEPT 29 FOR MORE HAPPENINGS AT THE NC MUSIC FACTORY VISIT WWW.NCMUSICFACTORY.COM

a selection of Charlotte fare that’s got everyone talking

IF YOU’VE NOTICED AN ABUNDANCE OF BBQ restaurants,

food trucks and festivals lately you’re privy to a movement— moment in time if you will— that is shaping the image of the Charlotte Region for good. And it suits us fine. It seems that in addition to sports, racing, banking and our lush tree-lined skyline the good folks hard at work grooming the Queen City for the eyes of the world have decided that BBQ is destined to be part of our image. The table is set. Grab a napkin and enjoy!

Recently the same restaurateurs who feed hungry families gourmet pizza and provide a rare watering hole in the Cotswold area proper—the Pizza Peel (behind Chic-Fil-A), are now into BBQ. They offer up The Improper Pig for your casual dining pleasure at the former location of Mama Fu’s. We’ll miss Mama’s distinct Thai flavors but welcome The Improper Pig. Their efforts are considerable and bold.

On our first visit we tried the Improper Nachos. Housemade pimento cheese (fast-becoming a Charlotte hallmark as well) served warm over salt and vinegar house chips garnished with scallions. We opted for smoked pork. The items mentioned above fought or our attention with each bite. Tasty as they were, we had some left to take home. We’re going back for BBQ Kale Chips, the Good Luck Soup—Brunswick Stew with collard greens and brisket, and the St. Louis Style Ribs.

FRESH, SIMPLE GOODNESS AS DIVERSE AS THE CHARLOTTE culinary landscape is, on your average day, we all crave home cooking, fresh vegetables and the staples. The Oakhurst Grill on Monroe Road at Wendover has served up perfectly seasoned meats, veggies and fresh salads for nearly 50 years. Generations of Charlotteans have ended their work days with a quick call-in order as they head home for dinner. Seasoned grilled chicken sandwich? Or a hardy grilled chicken salad with garden tomatoes and lettuce—piled high, fresh with abundant flavor? Collard greens, green beans, pinto beans, fried fresh squash, rice and gravy. A half baked chicken and homemade mac-and-cheese with tater wedges. Nothing fancy here, right? But all perfectly seasoned, cooked, and hot. Ready when you are. Stop in and taste the difference. You’ll be hooked on this convenient, unassuming but fantastic take-out kitchen.

@BRUNCH Brunch is the new dinner. Or...something like that. Why on earth it’s taken so long for it to catch on, we’ll never know. But hey, we’re in. Breakfast is waaayyy too early to spend in public and with strangers. And by dinner time, we’re ready for cocktails. The solution? Make a point to take advantage of the blossoming brunch offerings around Charlotte. A notable one we suggest is The Peculiar Rabbit in Plaza Midwood at the corner of Pecan and Gordon. Here goes: Deviled Eggs, Wings, Biscuits and Gravy, Country Breakfast, House Cured Salmon Omelette, Shrimp and Grits, Chicken and Waffles, Lamb Burger, Grilled Cheese with cider-braised short ribs, gouda, swiss and carmelized beer onions. Where’d you go?

Have a new favorite you’d like everyone to know about? Send it to us for consideration at INFO@PROWLERMAGAZINE.COM.

Cam newton has many highlights in his life to look back upon. his football achievements are those scripted in hollywood movies. His high school and collegiate careers are epic.

His NFL rookie season was historic. His tenure as the QB of the Carolina Panthers has led to playoff wins and now, a franchise QB CONTRACT that puts the future of the NFC SOUTH’S MOST PHYSICAL AND DYNAMIIC NFL TEAM SQUARELY UPON HIS SHOULDERS. Who’s #1?

CHARLOTTE, NC

Some things are just obvious, true correlations like great game plays and crowd cheers, genuinely helping people and positive reactions. Then there are other true correlations like Cam Newton and the number 1.

In the 2011 NFL Draft, Cam was the round 1, number 1 pick. In 2011 on September 1, he was named the Carolina Panther’s starting quarterback. And Cam dons the jersey #1. But before Cam became a number 1 successful standout, he was 1 person among a number of people trying to find his way.

Cameron Jerrell ”Cam” Newton was the second child of three children born to Cecil Newton, Sr. and Jackie Newton in Atlanta, Georgia on May 11, 1989. He grew up in the Atlanta suburb College Park. Cam and his older brother Cecil Newton, Jr. followed in their father’s footsteps. Cecil, Sr. was a linebacker from Savannah State University who formerly played for both the Dallas Cowboys and the Buffalo Bills in the early 1980’s. Eager to prepare his young sons for a shot in the NFL, he put Cecil, Jr. and Cam through college-type drills before they became teens. By age 8, Cam stood close to 5’0” and weighed nearly 100 pounds. Cecil Jr. often invited Cam to play football with his friends, and being younger, Cam performed well in that large circle. Cam loved playing football alongside his brother and from this, learned much about the game.

“My brother is my biggest teammate. It was the

lessons and plays we created as children in the backyard that I learned the most from,” said Cam blithely.

Soon enough, Cam began running in even bigger circles playing organized football, a game he pined to play and purposely prepared for prematurely. “I recall when I played as a child, I would get up early and suit-up hours before the game actually started,” said Cam. Being in a weight-based league, Cam often skipped meals in order to remain eligible. Also for Cam to remain eligible by both school academic and Newton Christian household standards, Cam’s parents made sure that their sons kept up with their school work. It also didn’t hurt that Cam had both a great smile and charisma, traits that translated into a likable personality that would become Cam’s trademark and boost his ascension.

As Cam grew, so did his speed, agility, and strength. In 2003, he enrolled at Westlake High School, playing both basketball and football. As a freshman, Cam impressed then-football coach Dallas Allen with his spirit and athletic ability. Cam’s adroit arm, pocket presence, and slick football moves encouraged Allen to make a move.

As the number 1 defines a beginning step, Allen bumped Cam from the freshman team to play varsity, a move that happened in year 1 of Cam’s high school career.

Although playing varsity football as a freshman is an honor, Cam’s focus was on the game and the camaraderie the opportunity fostered.

“Football is a game that I love at every level. As a fresh-

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P HOTOS BY STEVE LI N DEN MAN

man or varsity player, it wasn’t about me at a certain level, but it was about the team. If I’m working hard, then the guys around me and the guys still learning become their best by working hard,” said Cam. As a sophomore, when the team’s starting quarterback broke his finger, Cam got to start. In his first game, playing alongside his brother, Cam fumbled a snap from Cecil, Jr. late in the game that the other team recovered, costing the Westlake Lions a win. But the bigger picture for Cam is not so much the game score, but rather the lessons learned from the game outcome which foster continuous improvement.

“It’s not about winning or losing to me - it’s about gaining experience and knowledge, as knowledge makes you powerful.” said Cam. By his junior year, Cam grew three inches, gained 15 pounds of muscle, weighing in at 205 pounds, and standing 6’3”.

He ran for 638 yards with 9 touchdowns and threw for 2,500 yards with 23 touchdowns and 9 interceptions. As a senior weighing 230 pounds and standing 6’4”, Cam threw for 1,400 yards and ran for 1,000 yards. Cam was considered one of the nation’s top quarterback prospects, and 40 plus scholarship offers rolled in.

On September 7, 2006, in a press conference at Westlake High School, Cam verbally committed to the University of Florida where he would play alongside fellow quarterback

Tim Tebow. “Florida was the best fit for me at the time.

I chose Florida because my talents fit the spread option offense better than any other out there,” said Cam. In 2007, as a college freshman, Cam was the back-up quarterback for Tebow. Cam played in 5 games and threw for 40 yards on 5-of-10 passing and ran the ball 16 times for 103 yards and 3 touchdowns. Cam’s 2008 sophomore year began with great promise, but promises can be broken when life happens. Cam played in the season opener versus Hawaii, but after spraining his ankle in the opener, he was red-shirted during what would be a National Championship season for Florida. To add insult to injury, other incidents happened throughout Cam’s sophomore school year that affected him having a promising football season. The unfortunate situations Cam encountered in Florida left his football career at a crossroads.

“I went through so many stages mentally. I went through a miserable time as far as me being humbled. I went through a period where I was devastated and depressed. I didn’t know where my career was going and if I even wanted to play football anymore,” said Cam. But Cam soon found refuge in Brenham, Texas. In January 2009, he transferred to Blinn Junior College, far different from the city life he was used to experiencing in Florida.

“At Blinn College, everyone was from Texas. During the summer or on weekends, everyone would go home. I’d be

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the only one at the college, and it was a ghost town. That’s when I would think about what I really wanted to do with my life,” said Cam. As Cam had the talent to play football, and as the Buccaneers had a vacancy on their roster for a quarterback, Cam’s career crossroads merged down the one road of revisiting football. “To me, life is a journey – not just about a specific destination. In life, crossroads are good. They make you stronger, better in life. Crossroads allow your character to grow and give time for you to become the best version of yourself,” said Cam. With his smile and charismatic personality, it didn’t take long for Cam to join the football team and win over his teammates. Playing in 12 games, Cam led the Blinn Buccaneers to an 11-1 record and a 2009 NJCAA National Championship, completing 204 passes for 2,833 yards and 22 touchdowns with 5 interceptions. He rushed for 655 yards and 16 touchdowns. Well-deserved accolades followed. Cam was named a Juco All-America honorable mention and was the most recruited Juco quarterback in the country. As the number 1 highlights popularity, Cam was ranked as the #1 quarterback from either high school or junior college by Rivals.com, and was the only five-star recruit. Cam was happy to be heading back down the road of playing football, and both winning this National Championship and cherishing the team rapport attributed.

“Winning the championship was meaningful to me as were all the moments with my teammates through practices and games. To this day, I cherish the friendships I gained at Blinn College,” said Cam.

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In making his comeback, Cam was recruited by several colleges, and he eventually signed with the Auburn University Tigers. Cam was a success from the time he set foot on field at Auburn in 2010. As the number 1 defines standout sportsmanship, throughout the football season, Cam was the #1 guy to add stats to his accolades, all while staying humble. As the season progressed, Cam showed up and showed out, leading his team to victory game-after-game.

Eventually media reports began to list Cam among the top five candidates to watch for as the candidate for the Heisman Trophy. Throughout his Junior year at Auburn, Cam started all 14 games, completing 185 of 280 passes for 2,854 yards and an SEC record 30 touchdowns with 7 interceptions. Cam became the 1st player in SEC history to accumulate 2,000 yards passing and 1,000 yards rushing in a season. On December 4, 2010, Cam led the Tigers to an SEC Championship, their first since 2004, by defeating South Carolina 56-17. This game set an SEC Championship Game record for most points scored and the largest margin of victory. Following the game, Cam was named MVP after scoring a career-best 6 touchdowns, 4 passing and 2 rushing. Cam was named the 2010 SEC Offensive Player of the Year and the 2010 AP Player of the Year.

Cam was one of four finalists for the 2010 Heisman Trophy, which he won in a landslide victory.

Hear more from our recently re-signed franchise QB Cam Newton—and his landmark $103 million, 5 year contract extension in the next edition of Prowler Magazine. { To Be Continued NEXT ISSUE }

C harlotte IN THE CAROLINAS, SUMMER MEANS clear

blue skies, baking sunshine and water.

Lots of water. Pools (indoor, outdoor and rooftops uptown), creeks, lakes (two of them—Wylie and Norman), the Atlantic Ocean with hundreds of miles of Carolina beaches and most recently, Carolinians are cooling off at the US National Whitewater Center. The water is where you’ll find the young and young at heart this summer. We’ve compiled a guide to getting wet, and conversely compiled a rainy day guide for staying dry. Whatever the day (and night) holds for Charlotteans this summer, we’ve got you covered. Get going, get out there and enjoy one amazing summer in Charlotte where your recreation options include everything under the Carolina sun.

KEY ATTRACTIONS US National Whitewater Center The USNWC’s 700 acres offers a wide variety of outdoor activities for all ages and skill levels. Guests can enjoy whitewater rafting and kayaking, flatwater kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, rock climbing, zip lines, ropes courses, a canopy tour, and mountain biking on the 25+ mile trail system. For those looking to kick back, live music and outdoor festivals create a unique atmosphere of relaxation and fun.

The River Jam concert series takes place every Thursday and Saturday evening throughout the summer months, in addition to 9 unique festivals held throughout the year. The River’s Edge Bar & Grill, Pump House Biergarten, Adventure Dining opportunities, as well as multiple event/ meeting venues offer relaxing experiences after a long day of outdoor adventure. One final word: GO! USNWC.org

YOGA ON THE WATER www.standuplkn.com

Ray’s Splash Planet Ray’s Splash Planet is a one-of-a-kind waterpark with fun-filled features. Ray’s Splash Planet is also home to a state of the art fitness area

ONE HOT SUMMER Incredible vistas and live music makes for unforgettable summer concerts at the US National Whitewater Center. Just fifteen miles from uptown Charlotte takes you away to another place altogether.

with an aerobic & dance room, cardiovascular theater, free weights and resistance equipment. Owned and operated by Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation, Ray’s is a regional attraction open to residents of other counties and states as well as citizens of Mecklenburg County.

There is a discount on admissions and memberships for Mecklenburg County residents. Low membership passholder prices include access to the Mecklenburg County Aquatic Center, Marion Diehl Pool, and the Outdoor Pools for no additional charge. Ray’s Splash Planet offers birthday party rooms, a playground shared with Irwin Academic Center, fitness programs, sports and water related programs, an outdoor covered picnic area, basketball gymnasium, horseshoe pits, Irwin Creek Greenway

access, and other recreational based features. Great for families and located in beautiful uptown Charlotte. For more information visit charmeck.org.

Great Wolf Lodge This massive, 84-degree indoor water park contains thousands of square feet of family fun, from jaw-dropping slides for the thrill seekers to zero-depth entry playgrounds for the little ones. Splash the day away while creating unforgettable memories together. This is a great getaway (staycation) for sunny days and rainy days. Adults will like the onsite cabanas and

SUMMER FUN GUIDE continues Family fun at Great Wolf Lodge, Alberta Falls Ride at Great Wolf Lodge, atop Carowind’s Fury.

restaurants, kids will love EVERYTHING. It’s like having Disney World in our backyard. Great Wolf Lodge is a true resort so you’ll have everything you need onsite for your stay. Bring us back a set of Wolf Ears, will ya? We had so much fun last time we lost ours. www.greatwolflodge.com Carowinds Set on the NC/SC line (you can literally jump from one state to the next onsite), the 398 acre Carowinds has thrilled generations of Charlotteans and kids from around the world. Cedar Fair purchased the already substantial amusement park from Paramount a few years back and has built on decades of success—straight up, to be more specific. The Fury roller coaster now towers over the Charlotte skyline and delivers the fastest, tallest coaster experience in the US. The Intimidator, the Night Hawk and other terrifying coasters rank second and on down the line. If you’re a coaster rider,

this is your Valhalla. If you’re not— there’s still plenty at Carowinds for you.

The Boomerang Bay waterpark, kid’s rides, theater and good eats make for simple summertime fun. See it all at www.carowinds.com Paddle Boats at University Place If 90mph is a little too fast for you, we’ve got a suggestion—Dave’s Paddle Boats at University Place. Set amongst the serene lake at the center of the Shoppes at University Place, this paddle boat offering is certainly nice on a starlit summer night. You’ll be afloat beside ducks, geese and have occasional gull onlookers as you paddle around the massive lake. As you paddle choose your dinner location and patio—there are plenty to choose from here. Boats rent for $10 for 30 minutes and accommodate up to two adults and two small children. www.davespaddleboats.com for hours and more info.

Lake Norman The center of summer, Lake Norman draws hundreds of thousands of boaters, skiers, sunners and partiers each summer. Hot spots include The Rust Rudder, The Galway Hooker, The Dirty Martini and anywhere Luxury Yacht Charters is on the water. If you’re headed North on I-77 towards Lake Norman, take a look at www.LKNfun. com first.

Lake Wylie If you’re into fishing—this is your lake. Perhaps the quieter of the two local lakes, Wylie offers similar attractions—lakeside watering holes, miles of boating, skiing and on it’s shores you’ll find a little nightlife. If you’re local to SC, point your truck and trailer in this direction and enjoy the lake life.

BELOW: More

and more coasters from Carowinds Charlotte...ride on!

CHARLOTTE ROCKS! Legions of fans keep the biggest acts in rock and roll, r & b, country and pop music coming to the Queen City to strut their stuff. This year’s summer line-up offers a diverse billing of top acts performing vocal standards, gritty guitar, melodic pop hits and beating, loudly, upon the drums. Let loose and soak up the summer hits with us. See you center stage!

CHARLOTTE 2015 Tuesday, June 16th

CARLY RAE JEPSEN

The Fillmore/NC Music Factory Friday, June 19th

WEIRD AL YANKOVIC Ovens Auditorium Thursday, June 25

NATALIE COLE

Blumenthal Performing Arts Tuesday, June 30th

DEF LEPPARD, STYX AND TESLA Uptown Amphitheatre

Tuesday, July 7th

Saturday, July 25th

IMAGINE DRAGONS:

RASCAL FLATTS RIOT TOUR

Smoke + Mirrors Tour TWC Arena Friday, July 10th

DAVE MATTHEWS BAND PNC Music Pavilion

Saturday, July 11th TIMMCGRAW: Shotgun Rider Tour with Billy Currington and Chase Bryant PNC Music Pavilion Tuesday, July 14th KID ROCK’S First Kiss: Cheap Date Tour w/special guest Foreigner PNC Music Pavilion Friday, July 17th

DIERKS BENTLEY

Sounds of Summer Tour 2015 PNC Music Pavilion

PNC Music Pavilion

Tuesday, August 4th, 2015

NICKI MINAJ: PINKPRINT TOUR PNC Music Pavilion Friday, August 7th

LADY ANTEBELLUM, HUNTER HAYES AND SAM HUNT PNC Music Pavilion Friday, August 21st

TOBY KEITH

PNC Music Pavilion Friday, August 28th

NICKELBACK

PNC Music Pavilion Friday, September 11th

VAN HALEN

PNC Music Pavilion

Saturday, July 19th Boys of Zummer Tour with

For additional live music see:

FALL OUT BOY/WIZ KHALIFA

The Fillmore/NC Music Factory Amos’ South End Rooftop 210 @ The Epicentre Oven’s Auditorium Uptown Amphitheatre/NCMF

PNC Music Pavilion Tuesday, July 21st

ARIANA GRANDE TWC Arena

Follow Prowler Magazine on Facebook for concert updates.

WHAT BETTER WAY TO SPEND a care-free summer day than at Cinebarre? The popular Arboretum movie theater/

bar/restaurant offers big screen summer blockbusters and dining/drinking all at once. The lobby lounge bar and nearby games and billiards make for a great break between movies or a nice place to wait for the rest of your viewing party. The food is good—all the expected bar favorites are here—and the beer/wine/cocktail selections is tops.

A few miles closer to uptown Carolina Cinemas Charlotte (Monroe Road near Sardis Road North) has taken the leap with a massive upfit—and now also serves food and alcoholic beverages. Their craft beer selection on tap is impressive

and the food is hot and tasty. We suggest the bowl of fries with garlic and a big cold beer. Their take on food service is a little different than Cinebarre, where the food is served to you in the theater: they page you when your items are ready and you meet them at the entrance to your particular screening room. The seating here at Carolina Cinemas is insane—each seat is a luxurious leather oversize seat which reclines.

Make sure you choose a movie that will appeal to you more than a nap!

Another rainy day movie sug-

gestion is Studio Movie Grill at The Epicentre in Uptown Charlotte.

Moving more towards cocktail lounge than Cinebarre and Carolina Cinemas, SMG offers a host of happenings and ways to enjoy first run movies while socializing, dining and enjoying crisp, well-poured cocktails.

All three establishments are great.

Movie lovers can’t go wrong on a date night or when you’re torn between dinner or a movie—Charlotte now has many appetizing answers to that age-old dilemna.

A SUMMER FULL OF HEROES, VILLAINS AND JUST PLAIN LOVEABLE SCOUNDRELS Now that we’ve covered some kickbutt options for where to see your next movie, let’s have a look at what’s coming our way or showing now in local theaters: JURASSIC WORLD June 12 INSIDE OUT June 19 TED 2 June 26 MAGIC MIKE XXL July 1 TERMINATOR: GENISYS July 1 THE GALLOWS July 10 MINIONS (in 3D) July 10 ANT-MAN July 17

TRAINWRECK July 17 PAPER TOWNS July 24 PIXELS July 24 SOUTHPAW July 24 VACATION July 29 MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE July 31 FANTASTIC FOUR August 7 THE GIFT August 7 THE MAN FROM UNCLE August 14 STRAIGHT OUTTA COMPTON ““ MASTERMINDS August 19 HITMAN : AGENT 47 August 21 SINISTER 2 August 21 CROUCHING TIGER August 28

GET YOUR RETRO GAME FACE ON AND START DIGGING IN THE COUCH FOR QUARTERS NOW There’s a buzz in Plaza-Midwood and NoDa. That’s not unusual— there’s always something fresh and exciting in the works here. But this—this—is different. Someone finally had the guts to do what we all have been secretly dreaming of for years. Abari (like an Atari™ and bar mash-up) will open soon at 1721 North Davidson Street. It’s a bar and gameroom all rolled into one. But with really cool retro stand-up arcade games. So far, we’ve spotted Donkey Kong, Sega Outrun, NBA Pinball, Space Invaders, Ms. Pac Man, Dig-Dug (!), The Simpsons, Mortal Combat and Turtles In Time! Abari will have 27 games, 4 pinball machines and 4 console games. They will have craft beer on tap and cocktails. It’s 1,500 square feet of grown-up/ arrested development heaven. It’s for adults, but will have kid friendly hours Saturday and Sunday between 1pm and 5pm. For updates LIKE Abari Game Bar on Facebook or visit www.abarigamebar.com

REGRESSION August 28 WE ARE YOUR FRIENDS August 28 NO ESCAPE September 2 JANE GOT A GUN September 4 KITCHEN SINK September 4 THE TRANSPORTER September 4 THE PERFECT GUY September 11 THE VISIT September 11 BLACK MASS September 18 CAPTIVE September 18 EVEREST September 18 HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA 2 Sept 25 THE INTERN September 25

MINT MUSEUM UPTOWN

CHARLOTTE IS A WELL-BALANCED and

meticulously planned modern Metropolis. The Charlotte experience contains the very best from all domains of lifestyle and culture. Art is alive and well in the Queen City. And we suggest making a point of seeking it out in all of it’s manifestations. A rainy day is the perfect time to set out on your adventure.

MINT MUSEUM RANDOLPH 2730 Randolph Road, Charlotte, NC 28207 (704) 337-2000 Hours Below: Mon-Tues CLOSED Wed 11am-9pm Thurs-Sat 11am-6pm Sun 1-5pm MINT MUSEUM UPTOWN at Levine Center for the Arts 500 S. Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC 28202 (704) 337-2000 Hours Below: Mon-Tues CLOSED Wed 11am-9pm Thurs-Sat 11am-6pm Sun 1-5pm BECHTLER MUSEUM OF ART Monday 10am-5pm Tuesday CLOSED Wednesday 10am-5pm Sunday 12pm-5pm

THE THREE MUSEUMS we feature here are amazing architectural works of art themselves. Each visit offers an intense visual experience from approaach throughout the tour—and exhibits will amaze. The original Charlotte Mint (which was in fact a US Treasury Mint prior to becoming a museum) on Randolph Road has a heritage tied to many of Charlotte’s founding families and the permanent collection of art here ranges from pre-Columbian art to modern day treasures. Many classes are offered here and frequent gallery exhibits range from classic Warner Bros cartoons to the Tutakhamen collection from Egypt. Like the page of each of these galleries on Facebook and you are sure to find something of interest to you and everyone in your party.

The Mint Museum Uptown inspires thoughts of walking into an Escher drawing as you mount the stairs of the facade and enter the breathtaking halls which have dazzled with works from Chihuly, Halston and Warhol. From time-to-time the halls echo with the sounds of Jazz at the Mint—where Maria Howell, Ziad and others ply their craft to intimate audiences. Just a short walk away stands the radiating Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and out front stands the oft-photographed glass and mirror sculpture—the Sun God, becoming your inner creative to come and explore this beacon of art and design.

These treasures are all of ours—Charlotteans and visitors alike—to share.

Take time out for an experience you will cherish forever.

THE HOUSE THAT RACING BUILT

STEP BACK IN TIME AND RELIVE ALL OF NASCAR’S GREATEST MOMENTS IN A HIGH-TECH, HANDS ON MUSEUM THAT DELIVERS A RUSH FOR ALL

BECHTLER MUSEUM OF ART

NODA-NORTH DAVIDSON ARTS DISTRICT

Start with a visit toNoDa.org. NoDa is Charlotte’s historic arts and entertainment district – a neighborhood where the people are as diverse as the art, live music, craft beers, restaurants, custom gifts and tattoos you will find here.

NoDa is dedicated to promoting the arts, living eco-friendly lifestyles, supporting small businesses, encouraging diversity and aiding fellow charities.

First Friday Gallery Crawls are a great way to see most of the shops and galleries in one visit.

NASCAR HALL OF FAME

NASCAR, THE PROFESSIONAL stock car racing phenomenon began, as many things do, from necessity. In the age of Prohibition (when alcohol sales were outlawed) and at the same time as modern civil constraints began to finally reach to the mountains and foothills of southern states including North Carolina, bootleggers needed to be not only crafty to get their products pass agressive law men, but fast. And thus began the contest of building a suped up delivery vehicle—out of stock cars. On back roads and down narrow highways these shipments flew, packed away in the trunks or floorboards of high-octane roadrunners—Fords, Chevys, Dodges and all. To achieve their goals and burn the doors off flat-footed police cruisers these grease monkeys customized fuel, steering, suspension, mufflers, motors, points, plugs, and everything they could.

Innovation, once more, was fueled by necessity. Simultaneously a fire was lit— that of building the American muscle car.

Reaching speeds previously thought impossible, stock car builders turned their attention to each other, and the race, as they say, was on.

Charlotte, they once said, was the home of wrasslin’ and racing. Today,

wrestling’s old royalty—Flair, Anderson, McDaniel, Mulligan and company are aging and some—R.I.P. Dusty Rhodes—have passed. But racing is very much at home here in Charlotte—alive and well. A trip through these halls will give you a chill— and an appreciation for these fast track gladiators from the past and in modern day. No race fan should miss this experience. No Charlottean should, either.

LOCATED IN UPTOWN Charlotte, N.C., the 150,000-square-foot NASCAR Hall of Fame is an interactive, entertainment attraction honoring the history and heritage of NASCAR. The high-tech venue, designed to educate and entertain race fans and non-fans alike, opened May 11, 2010 and includes artifacts, interactive exhibits, and a 278-person state-of-theart theater. Also on the property is Buffalo Wild Wings restaurant and the NASCAR Hall of Fame Gear Shop. The goal of the facility is to honor NASCAR icons and create an enduring tribute to the drivers, crew members, team owners and others that have impacted the sport in the past, present and will continue to impact the sport well into the future.

The NASCAR Hall of Fame is open daily from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Parking garage on Brevard Street.

THE BEST GOLFERS IN THE WORLD

Quail Hollow Club, Charlotte, NC

May 2nd-8th, 2016

VERDICT RIDGE Denver, NC, Lake Norman This beautiful, challenging course beckons area golfers with lush Bermuda greens, peaceful vistas and well-groomed grounds. Former loved Charlotte Mayor and Super Lawyer Eddie Knox studied horticulture at Wake Forest University and ultimately put those put-off skills to work as he developed this course handson. It’s an oasis of the good life on the quiet side of Lake Norman. A full country club lifestyle includes pool, tennis, restaurant and bar at affordable rates with new homes available in Phase 5. WWW.VERDICTRIDGE.COM

Pineapple-Lime

Marinade 2 tablespoons olive or vegetable oil 1 teaspoon grated lime peel 2 tablespoons lime juice 2 tablespoons reserved pineapple juice from can of pineapple 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon red pepper sauce 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped

Kabobs 3/4 lb uncooked deveined peeled large shrimp, thawed if frozen 1 can (8 oz) pineapple chunks in juice, drained, 2 tablespoons juice reserved for marinade 1 orange bell pepper, cut into 12 pieces 4 medium green onions, cut into 1 1/2inch pieces

Spicy Garlic Shrimp, Pepper and Pineapple Kabobs

Serves Two Hot Off The Grill

1

In shallow glass or plastic dish or resealable food-storage plastic bag, mix marinade ingredients. Add shrimp, pineapple, bell pepper and onions; stir to coat. Cover dish or seal bag; refrigerate 15 to 30 minutes, turning once or twice.

2

Heat gas or charcoal grill. Carefully brush vegetable oil on grill rack. On each of 4 (12- to 14-inch) metal skewers, thread shrimp, pineapple, bell pepper and onions alternately, leaving small space between each piece.

Reserve marinade.

3

Place kabobs on grill over medium heat. Cover grill; cook 5 to 7 minutes, turning and brushing with marinade once, until shrimp are pink and vegetables are tender. Discard any remaining marinade.

Grilled Lemon-Salmon Foil Packs

INGREDIENTS 1 1/2 lb salmon fillets, skin removed, cut into 4 serving pieces 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper 1 medium lemon, cut into 1/8-inch slices (about 12) 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley PREPARATION 1 Heat gas or charcoal grill. Cut 4 (18x12-inch) sheets of heavy-duty foil. Place salmon piece on center of each sheet. Brush 1/2 tablespoon oil over both sides of each salmon piece. Sprinkle each piece with 1/8 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Place about 3 lemon slices flat or overlapping on each piece.

2 Bring up 2 sides of foil over salmon so edges meet. Seal edges, making tight 1/2-inch fold; fold again, allowing space for heat circulation and expansion.

Fold other sides to seal.

3 Place packets on grill over medium-low heat. Cover grill; cook 13 to 16 minutes, rotating packets 1/2 turn after about 7 minutes, until salmon flakes easily with fork. To serve, cut large X across top of each packet; carefully fold back foil

S E R V E D U P B Y LO R I S C OT T

Enjoy the coastal life... wherever you may be with these eclectic, tasty treats.

ELECTRIC LEMONADE

Strawberry Margarita Jell-O Shooters

INGREDIENTS 1.5 ounce citron vodka 1/2 ounce Blue Curacao 2 fluid ounces sour mix 1 (12 fluid ounce) can or bottle lemon-lime flavored carbonated beverage 1 lemon - cut into wedges, for garnish

INGREDIENTS 24-30 Strawberries Margarita Mix 1 box Strawberry Jell-O 8 ounces tequila 6 ounce Cointreau Salt for garnish

DIRECTIONS Fill a glass with ice. Pour in vodka, blue Curacao and sour mix. Fill to the top with lemon-lime soda. Garnish with lemon wedge, and serve with straw.

STRAWBERRY PREP Cut the bottoms of the strawberry flat to get them to stand upright. When you do so, make sure that you do not cut off so much that there is a hole at the bottom. Use a huller or apple corer to empty out the strawberry. Once the strawberries have been emptied, use a towel to pat the outside of the strawberries dry. Check each strawberry and make sure there is not a hole in the bottom before you start filling Margarita Mix.

DIRECTIONS Boil one cup of hot water in a saucepan, then add in Jell-o powder and whisk until powder is completely dissolved, about 2 minutes. Set aside. Measure out 1/4 cup of cold water and set aside. Combine tequila and Cointreau, in cocktail shaker filled with ice. Add liquor mixture to cold water and stir to combine. Then add cold liquor mixture to hot Jell-o mixture and stir to combine.

Pour final Jell-o mix into strawberries and chill overnight. Dip your finger in water or use a moistened brush to wet the edge of the strawberries, dip and rotate the strawberries in salt to rim. Garnish with cut lime triangles to finish.

INGREDIENTS 1 cup frozen unsweetened raspberries 1 cup brandy-based orange liqueur (Grand Marnier) 3/4 cup gold tequila 2 tablespoons sugar ice cubes DIRECTIONS Blend ingredients to crushed ice consistency Garnish margarita glass with salt...enjoy!

RASPBERRY MARGARITA