Hey, everyone! Drew here. TGIF!

ICYMI: A new episode of “Sports Legends of the Carolinas” dropped earlier this week featuring NASCAR Hall of Famer Jeff Gordon.

He sat down with Scott Fowler to talk the upcoming Coca-Cola 600, his first win in 1994 and more.

Check out their full conversation as you prep for the big race this weekend.

On to your news.

**Note: There will be no Monday edition of the Afternoon Observer next week due to the holiday weekend.**

1. Charlotte’s Polk Park demolished without public input. Now, community wants answers.

There’s a little less green in uptown this week after Polk Park’s teardown.

Earlier this year, there was a $5 million fundraising plan to renovate the existing uptown park and retain its historic elements. Instead, city officials chose to demolish the beloved park on Wednesday.

Genna Contino shares more on a community looking for answers.

2. Charlotte’s Roxbury nightclub to close next month

What is love? Oh baby don’t hurt me, don’t hurt me, no more.

If you’ve ever enjoyed a night out at the Roxbury in Charlotte, you have some time to say goodbye. The local ‘80s and ‘90s nightclub is closing its doors next month after 11 years.

Melissa Oyler has the details on the closure.

3. How Charlotte named bike lane sweeper Sweepy McSweepface

An example of democracy working at its finest.

Charlotte’s new bike lane sweeper has been named after the public provided suggestions and voted on a winner. The new moniker? Sweepy McSweepface.

Julia Coin explains the story behind the magnificent name.

4. Some more stories to read

• Charlotte man shot, killed while trying to break into a home, police say

• Restaurant inspection uncovers ‘large roaches’ at Pineville Chinese takeout joint

• Drastic shift in Charlotte’s weather could impact Sunday’s Coca-Cola 600, NWS says

• Senior pranks used to be fun, not felonies. Retro Charlotte looks back at past pranks.

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