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What's cooking, Charlotte!

Big changes are shaking up our food scene, plus fresh tunes and weekend fun coming your way!

• 🔥 A tasty new spot is coming to Waxhaw! Sip & Cinder will bring craft cocktails and smoked meats this October.
• 🎵 Justin Bieber gets personal in his new YUKON music video, showing sweet moments with Hailey and baby Jack.
• 🎬 This weekend's packed with fun! From outdoor movies to comedy shows, Charlotte's got something for everyone.
• 🍽️ Sad news as Essex Bar & Bistro joins other uptown spots closing their doors.

Grab your friends and make the most of these final summer days in the Queen City!

Breaking News

Brandon Blackstock Dead at 48 After Cancer Battle

Kelly Clarkson's former husband and music industry figure Brandon Blackstock has died at age 48. Just days after Clarkson announced a pause in her work commitments to support their children, the news broke of his passing. The father of four, including two children with Clarkson, fought cancer for three years. His connection to country music royalty and his impact on the entertainment industry made him a notable figure in Nashville circles.

Food News

Chick-fil-A Launching New Fall Menu This Month

Mark your calendars for August 18! Chick-fil-A is mixing things up with their first-ever seasonal soda. The new Cherry Berry & Sprite blend leads a tasty lineup that includes something totally fresh - their signature sauce now comes in chip form. Plus, there's a new sandwich that might become your next favorite. Want to know what makes this menu switch-up so special?

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CROSSWORD

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What's happening in Charlotte?

• Pre Game Blitz: Join us for the Pre Game Blitz before every Carolina home game this season on the corner of Morehead and Cedar at Teranga City from 5p-7p with FREE admission. Stop by get some food and drinks and win some prizes before the game!!!
• Back To School Fun: Get ready for an awesome afternoon at the FREE Community Back To School Bash! Saturday, August 9th from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Pitts School Road Northwest in Concord. Grab school supplies, play games, catch live music, and munch on tasty treats. Perfect for the whole family!
• Dinner With a View: Experience a magical evening at the Sunflowers at Sunset Dinner on Saturday, August 9th from 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM. Located at Cabarrus Station Road in Midland, this gourmet dinner offers an unforgettable night under a stunning sunflower backdrop. Book your spot now - seats are limited!

Black Eyed Peas to Drop 25th Anniversary Vinyl of 'Bridging The Gap'

A fresh spin on hip-hop history will hit stores this fall. The two-LP anniversary pressing of Black Eyed Peas' second album, Bridging the Gap, arrives on September 26. Music lovers can pick between standard black or special brown vinyl.

Back in 2000, this album marked a turning point. Its standout track "Request + Line" shot up to No. 63 on the Billboard Hot 100 list. Macy Gray's rich vocals helped push the song into new territory.

That's a wrap on today's news!

We've covered it all today - from the sad news of Brandon Blackstock's passing at 48, to exciting food updates with Chick-fil-A's fall menu launch and Sip & Cinder coming to Waxhaw. Justin Bieber shared sweet family moments in his YUKON video, and Black Eyed Peas fans can look forward to a special vinyl release. Don't miss this weekend's Charlotte events, including the Pre Game Blitz, Back To School Bash, and a magical Sunflowers at Sunset Dinner.

Want more fun? Try your luck in our Gadget Grab Giveaway or test your skills with today's crossword puzzle. Catch you next week with more Charlotte happenings!