THURSDAY, SEPT. 13 This is rather interesting. It seems that a meeting has been "planned" for "pro-choice men and women and anyone interested in sexual health issues." What's the issue? You have sex. If you use protection, there's a great chance a baby is not in your future. If you don't, there's a great chance a baby is in the cards, along with a few "issues" a doctor may be needed to clear up. With this in mind, Planned Parenthood has taken it upon themselves to create a setting to raise awareness among young adults. The Planned Parenthood of Charlotte Young Advocates will host a meet-and-greet for this like-minded group of free-thinking, responsible citizens regarding health and sexuality. 6 p.m. Mac's Speed Shop, 2511 South Blvd. http://prochoice.meetup.com/125/calendar/6212637.
FRIDAY, SEPT. 14 Something pungent comes swiftly through downtown, wafting in from the general direction of ... Center City?! That's right, the Blues have moved from Historic South End. It's time once again for the best thing since man discovered beer ... what goes best with beer? The answer is unanimously barbecue. That wonderful Southern delicacy of pork tenderly grilled until it's falling off the bones, then basted with just the right amount of sauce, mixed with more secret ingredients than the Colonel's got in his infamous chicken. Blues, Brews & BBQ 2007, part of the Charlotte Shout! Celebration, is N.C.'s only Memphis in May sanctioned BBQ Cook-off. It starts on Friday, Sept. 14 and ends that Saturday. Headquarters is on North Tryon Street between 6th and 11th streets. In addition to the succulent BBQ and frosty brews, music will be provided by Delbert McClinton, Acoustic Syndicate and many more. For more information, check out www.charlotteshout.com.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 15 In light of the recent inquiry into why Owen Wilson, a funny, talented actor/screenwriter, would turn to suicide, this is a very timely entry. It's no laughing matter when the person pushed to the breaking point is you. However in Hollywood, where suicides and attempts are common, the impulse usually comes off as nothing more than a publicity stunt. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is out to raise money for research, education, and to assist survivors of the loss. Luke was there for Owen, but who'll be there for you or your loved ones? Join the Out of the Darkness Community Walk today. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. 11:30 a.m. Freedom Park, 1900 East Blvd. www.outofthedarkness.org.
WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 19 There's undeniable chemistry among the musicians of the Dave Matthews Band. Maybe they read each other's minds. Who knows? But the voracious appetites of the multigenerational Matthews fans are best fed in the bands' most natural environs, a live setting. The gents blend as much sax, fiddle and acoustic guitar into their world beat-influenced pop-rock as they do with electrified jamming. Last year's double disc release mixing best of tracks along with live cuts, The Best of What's Around Vol. 1, is a fine primer for newcomers to the Matthews oeuvre. Robert Earl Keen will open. 7 p.m. $36.50-$61.50. Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, 707 Pavilion Blvd. 704-549-5555. www.livenation.com. (Shukla)
