SALISBURY — Rowan Young Professionals, a program under the auspices of the Rowan Chamber of Commerce, just announced the return of its summer networking series, LIVE After Five.

Now in its fourth year, the series kicked off earlier this week, offering young professionals a platform for connection and growth throughout the summer.

Since its inception in June 2021, the LIVE After Five series has become a cornerstone for young professionals in Rowan County seeking to build relationships over the summer months.

Held weekly from 5:15 p.m. until 7 p.m. through August 23, except July 25, due to the Dragon Boat Festival, the series fosters connections that extend beyond the events themselves. For the second year, the summer series will be sponsored by Cloninger Toyota.

“We are immensely grateful to Cloninger Toyota for their continued support, not just financially but through active participation,” said Mollie Ruf, chair of the Rowan Young Professionals. “Their team truly embodies what it means to be community ambassadors and a pillar of local business.”

Dillon Brewer, sales and leasing consultant at Cloninger Toyota and alderman for the town of Rockwell, expressed his enthusiasm.

“LIVE After Five holds a special place in my heart as it marked the beginning of my journey with the Young Professionals,” Brewer said. “The friendships and professional relationships I’ve developed since are invaluable. I’m excited to kick off this series at our facility in Salisbury this Thursday. I encourage everyone to join us and experience a summer of amazing connections.”

Kyler Eagle, Young Professionals Events Committee chair, highlighted the series’ expansion.

“This year, we are excited to extend our reach beyond Salisbury by including events in the towns of Spencer and China Grove,” Eagle said. “Our visits to Queso Salsa and Grove Cartel Brewery are particularly special, as they represent our commitment to engaging all of Rowan County’s young professionals.”

This year, the 10-week series has expanded to 11 weeks so more local establishments can be included such as Mac Tabby Cat Café, Salisbury Family Social, and others. Many favorites from the previous year are also on the list. One particularly popular location in 2023 was Bonaparte Castle.

“After a very successful LIVE After Five event in 2023, Bonaparte Castle welcomes the young professionals back for this year’s event,” said Sandra Toscano, co-owner of the property. “We support their efforts and the tremendous contributions they bring to our community. We are proud to be a part of their network as we do our part to facilitate their growth. We look forward to hosting them in August!”

The series schedule is as follows:

• June 13: DJ’s Restaurant & Sky Lounge
• June 20: Salisbury Family Social
• June 27: New Sarum Brewery
• July 2 (Tuesday due to Thursday, July 4^th being a holiday): Queso Salsa
• July 11: The STL Club
• July 18: White Rabbit Cocktail Parlor / Wonderland Arcade Bar
• Aug. 1: Shug’s at Brooklyn South Square
• Aug. 8: Grove Cartel Brewery
• Aug. 15: Mac Tabby Cat Cafe
• Aug. 23: Grand Finale Event at Bonaparte Castle with an after party at Vanity 612 across the street. Note, this date is a Friday as the day before, Aug. 22, the young professionals will be attending College Night Out in Downtown Salisbury.

Events are free to attend, but registration is required. Guests are asked to register on Eventbrite at https://www.eventbrite.com/o/rowan-county-young-professionals-59715149343. Debbie Suggs Catering will be providing food for the kickoff event at Cloninger Toyota. All other events, guest will pay for their own food and/or beverages.

Please note, LIVE After Five is designed for individuals aged 21-45, and while centered in Rowan County, all are welcome regardless of residency. Rowan Chamber membership is not required to participate.