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Good morning, Country fans!

We've got tasty news, chart-topping hits, and local updates coming your way today!

• 🍗 Big changes are coming to Chick-fil-A's menu starting August 18th - including a fresh take on their Cherry Berry drink and a brand new sandwich that might become your next favorite!
• 🎸 Country music made waves as Jason Aldean, Morgan Wallen, and Luke Combs dominated the Billboard charts with their latest hits - marking a historic moment for the genre.
• 🎤 Speaking of Luke Combs, he's putting his next album in the hands of his fans! Find out how you can help choose which songs make the cut.
• 🍽️ Changes in Charlotte's dining scene as Essex Bar & Bistro announces its closing - catch them while you can in the coming weeks.

Turn up that country music and start your day with these fresh stories!

CMA Awards

CMA Awards Voting Opens: Second Round Gets Awards Season Rolling

The countdown to country music's biggest night starts now. CMA members are casting votes through August 18 to pick the final nominees across 12 categories. Mark your calendars for November 19, when Nashville lights up for the 59th Annual CMA Awards on ABC. Want to know what's in store for this year's show? From exclusive backstage access to star-studded parties, we've got the inside scoop on all the festivities leading up to the main event.

Local Events

Your Weekend Guide: Country Music, Comedy, and Family Fun

This weekend brings a mix of entertainment to the Queen City. Catch the sounds of the South at the Charlotte Bootlegger Country & Americana Festival, share laughs with clean comedian Mike Goodwin, or grab your blankets for an outdoor movie night. Plus, catch Eddie Griffin's stand-up show, tap your toes at River Jam, or start your Saturday at the Cotswold Farmers' Market. We've got the scoop on ticket prices, times, and what makes each event special.

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What's Happening Around 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!!!
• Country Dinner Under the Stars: Join us for a special Sunflowers at Sunset Dinner on Saturday, August 9th from 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM. Located at the beautiful Cabarrus Station Road venue in Midland, this outdoor dining event pairs good food with stunning views. Get your tickets now - spots are filling up fast!
• Dierks Bentley Broken Branches Tour: GET READY! Dierks Bentley's Broken Branches Tour is coming to PNC Music Pavilion Charlotte on Saturday, 8/9, with special guests Zach Top & The Band Loula!

Food & Drink

New Barbecue Joint Sip & Cinder Coming to Waxhaw This October

Chef Jon Fortes plans to open Sip & Cinder, a smoke house and craft cocktail venue, at 1325 N. Broome St. in Waxhaw when October begins.

"We're trying to stay out of the big city a little bit," Fortes said, according to CharlotteFive. "We looked around in Waxhaw and felt there was a need for what we do here."

That's a wrap on today's news!

What a packed day of country music and local happenings! The CMA Awards season kicks into high gear with voting underway, while Charlotte's weekend comes alive with the Bootlegger Country Festival and River Jam. We've shared news about Chick-fil-A's menu changes, a fresh BBQ spot coming to Waxhaw, and chart success for Jason Aldean, Morgan Wallen, and Luke Combs. Don't miss your chance at the Gadget Grab Giveaway, and catch the Panthers pre-game action at Teranga City!

Keep it tuned to Country 103.7 - where Charlotte's best country lives!