Entertainment

Veterans take the wheel: Community gathers for overland fundraiser at Static Line Brewing

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Tuesday, 06 May 2025

Written by Jamie Bishop

On Armed Forces Day, May 17, the veteran community in Harnett County will gather for a special cause at Static Line Brewing Company, a veteran-owned and operated craft brewery located at 1671 Buffalo Lake Road, Sanford. The event—an Overland-Themed Car Show Fundraiser—is a collaboration between Static Line and Mind Over Land, a North Carolina-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to reconnecting veterans with the outdoors through vehicle-based adventures.
The fundraiser, which runs from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., will showcase a wide range of off-road vehicles: Jeeps, Toyotas, overland rigs, and trucks—each a testament to freedom, grit, and individuality. Participants can register their vehicles for a $10 entry fee, while attendees can vote for their favorite rig for just $2 per ticket. In addition to the car show, there will be a raffle featuring an overland fridge generously donated by a supporting company from Asheville, with all proceeds going directly to support veteran outdoor excursions.
“We wanted to hold this event on Armed Forces Day as a way to honor those who serve, have served, and continue to serve,” said retired Chief Petty Officer Chad Bruner, one of the co-founders of Mind Over Land. “Everything we raise goes back into our mission. We’re 100% donation-funded, and we don’t charge veterans to participate in our events.”
Mind Over Land is led by three retired military leaders: Chief Warrant Officer 4 Seth Smith, Chief Master Sgt. Jonathan Shores and Bruner. Each brings years of service experience and a shared passion for healing through nature and camaraderie. Their nonprofit was born from a desire to streamline services and focus on one core mission—connecting veterans with each other and the outdoors.
“An earlier group tried to do too many things for too many people,” Bruner explained, referring to a previous initiative called True Patriot Inc. “We decided we were going to do one thing really well—facilitating overland-style vehicle adventures where veterans can disconnect from daily stress and reconnect with nature, purpose, and each other.”
Mind Over Land’s programs are immersive and comprehensive. Veterans are not asked to pay out of pocket. The organization provides everything: transportation, food, fuel, gear, and campground fees. They even waive the $50 registration hold fee if a veteran is experiencing hardship.
“We had to turn away over 100 veterans last year,” Bruner said. “Not because we didn’t want them, but because we didn’t have the funding to make the trips possible. That’s why fundraisers like this one with Static Line are so important.”
Static Line Brewing Company, owned by Steven Khoo, a veteran himself, serves more than just award-winning craft beer—it provides a gathering place for veterans and civilians alike to share stories, support one another, and foster community. Khoo, whose brewery website is www.staticlinebeer.com, has long been a supporter of local veteran initiatives.
“The veteran community is very self-supportive,” Bruner said. “We all understand each other. Businesses like Static Line get what we’re trying to do, and they step up. Steven Khoo offered us his parking lot and brewery space for this event because he understands the mission—it’s about more than beer. It’s about belonging.”
This Armed Forces Day event isn’t just a one-off; Mind Over Land hopes it marks the beginning of a new tradition.
“If we get enough support this year, we’d love to make this an annual event,” Bruner said. “And maybe even expand to different areas.”
Looking ahead, Mind Over Land has set an ambitious but inspiring goal: to impact 10,000 veterans in 10 years. With increasing demand for their services and a proven model of healing through outdoor connection, they’re confident, but they need the public’s support to get there.
“Our biggest limitation is funding,” Bruner stated plainly. “We’re not asking for a handout. We’re asking people to partner with us in making a real difference. Come out to the event, register your vehicle, vote, buy a raffle ticket, or just enjoy a cold beer. Every action helps a veteran.”
The Overland-Themed Car Show Fundraiser is more than a display of rugged vehicles—it’s a symbol of resilience, camaraderie, and the road to healing. With beer in hand, engines humming, and veterans at the center, May 17 promises to be a meaningful day for all who attend.
For more information about the event or how to get involved, visit www.staticlinebeer.com or follow Mind Over Land on social media.

(Photos courtesy of Mind Over Land's Facebook page)

Spring Fling at Legends Bar benefits “One of our own”

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Tuesday, 29 April 2025

Written by Anna White

Make Fayetteville your home for any length of time, and you may catch wind of a local spot that is fittingly known as Legends Pub. Owner Holly Whitley isn’t kidding when she talks of the “family” that has grown around the institution through the years. For her, it’s a natural fit.
"It’s not hard — after 29 years, it becomes a way of life, probably more than anything," she said. The place is known for its wide appeal to the military, veterans, and bikers.
When she bought the bar 29 years ago it became home to her friend group, lovingly dubbed “The Gypsy Women” by the community. From there, they began hosting an annual party at the bar, which would eventually become the Spring Fling. Initially, a chance for the community to have fun, they ultimately transitioned the event to a benefit in the wake of a friend’s motorcycle accident. It’s now their largest of the year and spans three days.
Over its lifetime, the pub has grown with Whitley and her family in addition to growing a family of its own.
"My children were teenagers when I bought the bar - my grandchildren know about the bar. They understand what it does for the community," she explained. “They’ve always been very supportive of the bar.”
Whitely says she's had the privilege of watching patrons’ children grow up, being a place that supports military families, and hosting annual memorials and tributes.
“I’ve watched military careers go from beginning to retirement. I’ve watched friends and their children and grandchildren as they grow up and have their first drink at Legends Pub.”
One of those tributes, an annual toast and poker run in honor of Staff Sergeant Scott D. Sather, is of particular significance for Whitley.
A friend of Whitley’s and regular patron at Legend’s, Sather was killed in action on April 8, 2003, in Northern Iraq. According to the Combat Control Foundation, “his death marked the first combat casualty for the US Air Force during Operation Iraqi Freedom.” Whitley says the tribute often brings back patrons she hasn’t seen in a while who want to take part in keeping Sather’s memory alive.
“He has been remembered greatly in our bar and by the whole community,” she said.
This commitment to honoring and supporting each other underscores the familial bonds formed by many of Legend’s regulars. The bar serves as a hub for those who don’t have connections nearby.
“A lot of us in this area - this military town - decided to stay,” Whitley explained. “Some of us don't have any other family besides our immediate family. Several people are by themselves, their families live elsewhere. We're always there for each other, for birthdays and celebrations, and to comfort each other during bad times and to be supportive like this.”
Another patron, Mike Slater, is the beneficiary of this year’s Spring Fling. Like many chosen family members who frequent the bar, Whitley has lost track of exactly how long
she’s known Slater.
“Twenty years or so,” she speculated. “It’s hard to say, I don’t really remember. Everything becomes a blur. So, several years, let’s put it that way.”
Slater was recently diagnosed with stage 4 Metastatic Melanoma, and Whitely hopes the Spring Fling will be an opportunity for the community to make a difference as Slater and his wife, Pam, face this battle. A Facebook announcement from Legends bar said the two were facing the diagnosis with “incredible strength, faith, and determination,” and concluded by rallying attendees behind these words, “Let’s stand together, celebrate community, and make a difference! Together we fight. Together, we support. Together, we are family.” One commenter said, “Yes, yes, yes!!! I’ll be there to support Mike and the Legend’s Pub family!”
The Spring Fling will take place Friday, May 2, Saturday, May 3, and Sunday, May 4. The schedule of events:
Friday: Pool tournament and pre-party.
Saturday: Scott Sather Memorial Poker Run, first bike out, Pig Pickin’, auction.
Sunday: Bike Show (Sign-up, 1 p.m., judging, 3 p.m.)
Categories and prizes:
1903 -1990, Best of Show.
1991 -present, Best of Show.
On display at the Spring Fling will be a Superbird restored by John Breach, recently featured in Mopar Magazine.
“I love to feature something that a friend of mine has taken from a burned-out junk car to such a beautiful machine,” Whitley explained.
While Legends is known as a biker bar, she believes patrons will appreciate seeing the work that has gone into restoring the vehicle.
“We call ourselves the oldest biker bar in Fayetteville, but you know, we have such a wide range of people,” she said. “What he has been able to do as far as restoring cars is, I think, quite phenomenal.”
While Whitely is deeply enthusiastic about the experience the Spring Fling offers car and bike aficionados, she doesn’t lose sight of the mission. Attendees comment particularly on the concern and care shown for Legend family members who need support.
“I’ve had people over the years turn around and say, ‘I’ve never seen anything to this level.’” She continued, “I’ve watched people come here for the first time and the next thing you know, they’re sitting around six other people that you know are regulars and just enjoying themselves.”
Whether a regular or newcomer, Whitley is certain that community members will find their place at Legends Spring Fling.
“The way the group comes together,” she shared, “It’s something to experience.”

(Photos: Top photo: Holly Whitley's crew of women at Legends Pub have become known as the "Gypsy Women" by the local community. Whitley has been the owner of Legends for 29 years.
Bottom photo: Holly Whitley and her bartenders are the Gypsy Women at Legends Pub. Legends is hosting their 29th Annual Spring Fling starting May 2. The proceeds from this year's event will go to help offset the costs of care for Mike Slater, one of the regulars at Legends. "Let's stand together, celebrate community, and make a difference!" Legends' announcement proclaims. Photos by Aly Hansen)

Fayetteville’s Ultimate Lip Sync Showdown takes center stage

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Tuesday, 06 May 2025

Written by Crissy Neville

High energy hits the stage with the arrival of the 9th Annual Fayetteville’s Ultimate Lip Sync Showdown to the Crown Complex on May 17. The battle for Best Lip Syncer—in youth and adult categories—benefits the Child Advocacy Center and reigns as one of the All-America City’s most entertaining shows. Presented by Fayetteville Academy, the 2025 Ultimate Lip Sync Showdown’s lights-music-action energy is a can’t-miss.
The creative Lip Sync Showdown is the CAC's spring major fundraiser and signature event. Since 2017, the fun promotion has raised money and awareness for the Center, a 501 (c) (3) charitable organization with a multi-disciplinary approach to caring for abused children. By attending and supporting the Showdown, sponsors, show participants and eventgoers become community partners with the CAC in its mission to respond to and prevent child abuse. Event proceeds help provide healing and hope to the over 700 child abuse victims with whom CAC volunteers and staff work.
For the second year, Fayetteville’s Ultimate Lip Sync Showdown presents two performances in the Crown Center Ballroom. The youth matinee at 1 p.m. includes groups with one or more performers under 18. With recommended dress of casual to cocktail, the ticket price is $25 plus taxes and fees if purchased online. The 7 p.m. evening features adult-only performers ages 18+. Evening showgoers will enjoy a catered meal with dessert options and a cash bar; cocktail dress is suggested. The nighttime show ticket is $75 plus taxes and fees if purchased online. View all seating and pricing options here https://www.crowncomplexnc.com/events/detail/fayettevilles-ultimate-lip-sync-showdown-3
Tickets can also be purchased in person at the Crown Box Office, located at 1960 Coliseum Dr.
A live DJ, show emcees, professional audio, custom stage lighting and a 3D photo booth keep the party pumping, both day and night. Table pompoms and hand-clappers, raffle tickets, an interactive dessert station and People’s Choice cash-donation ballot vases create audience interaction opportunities before, after and between the clapping, cheering, laughing and fever-pitch crowd responses the show always elicits. The Lip Sync performers may not have cut a record or signed a contract, but their Fayetteville fans follow them just the same.
Returning in 2025 are the 2024 winners: youth ensemble, The Miracles, comprised of local young actors with Cape Fear Regional Theatre ties, and the adult group formerly known as The Six Merry Murderesses, led by Casey Benander of Haymount Homes. High school theater department members from E.E. Smith, Terry Sanford, Fayetteville Academy, homeschools and other K-12 groups are on the lineup for the matinee. Adult Lip Syncers include groups from Womack Army Hospital, Keller Williams Real Estate, the office of Spring Lake Mayor Kia Anthony and Dancing Without Sin studio owner Stephanie Brown Kegler as “Tina Turner,” among numerous others. From musical theater selections, The Lion King, The Addams Family Musical, Legally Blonde, Newsies, Grease and Pitch Perfect, to hits and hipsters from the past, Ultimate Lip Sync competitors, past and present, are in it to win it! A $500 cash prize will be given to the winner of each show; performing acts are judged on the criteria of lip sync ability, stage presence, choreography, costumes, crowd appeal and preshow fundraising.
According to Event Chair Karen B. Tisdale, over 100 performers have signed up to participate in the 2025 competition, which is expected to be better than ever despite changing months from April to May.
“We've become more of an established event, and we're getting groups that are putting more effort into their performances, more choreography,” she said. “Last year was the first time we split and did two shows. So, continuing in that vein allows more performance groups to come in. The more developed the event, the bigger and better it gets.”
“It's my favorite event all year,” Tisdale continued enthusiastically. “It's so fun. It's fun to sit in the audience and watch. It's fun to be on stage. It's fun to be backstage.”
The Ultimate Lip Sync Showdown has raised upward of $30-$40K for the CAC each year.
“We hope to raise $50K this year,” Tisdale shared. “It's such a fun, high-energy event. It's just fantastic.”
Pre-fundraising among the participating groups contributes to the overall goal and is another way for the entrants to showcase creativity. From raffling tickets and washing cars to selling lemonade and hosting donation dance classes, the designated proceeds “go to the CAC for its mission,” Tisdale said. “We have adult groups that do Facebook and online social media fundraisers that bring in quite a bit for the CAC.”
Hired as the CAC Executive Director in June 2024, John Webster is excited to experience his first Ultimate Lip Sync Showdown with the agency this year. Expressing gratitude for the event’s legacy, he said, “As the Executive Director of the Child Advocacy Center and as a representative of the CAC staff and its Board of Directors, but more importantly, on behalf of the children we serve, I would like to thank everyone who has supported Fayetteville's Ultimate Lip Sync Showdown in the past. I encourage corporate and individual sponsors and supporters to come out again and support this super fun fundraiser benefiting the work of the CAC. Karen Tisdale and her amazing planning committee work tirelessly to make this event bigger and better each year, so I know this year's event will be lots of fun for all who attend! The work of the CAC is vital to Fayetteville and the entire county as we strive to be a place of healing and hope for child victims of abuse by offering forensic interviews and counseling for victims as well as providing prevention education for parents, professionals and agencies in our community. Please plan to purchase tickets and come out for a great time while benefiting the children we serve.”
Unleash your inner rockstar and join in this year’s event. Don't miss the chance to win big and earn bragging rights as the Fayetteville Ultimate Lip Sync Showdown Champion. Sign up now or buy your ticket to attend. Stardom awaits!

(Photo: The Six Merry Murderesses pose for a photo after the Ultimate Lip Sync Showdown in 2024)

Celebrate May: Star Wars, Cinco de Mayo Fun

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Tuesday, 29 April 2025

Written by Sheila D. Barker

May is a bustling and exciting month filled with numerous festive holidays that bring communities together in celebration. Two particularly popular and entertaining occasions occur back-to-back: Star Wars Day on May 4, where fans worldwide celebrate the iconic franchise with the catchphrase "May the Fourth be with you," and Cinco de Mayo on May 5, a vibrant celebration of Mexican culture and heritage.
These consecutive holidays offer perfect opportunities for friends and families to gather and enjoy special moments together. Local communities are hosting various themed events, activities, and celebrations for both occasions, making it an ideal time to participate in the festivities and create lasting memories.
May the Fourth Be With You- Star Wars Events
Wednesday, April 30
• Star Wars Trivia at WOW Bar & Kitchen, 1944 Skibo Rd., at 7 p.m.
Join the World of Beer for an unforgettable evening of intergalactic entertainment at Star Wars Trivia! Challenge yourself with mind-bending questions about the iconic saga, from the original trilogy to the latest releases. Test your expertise on everything from lightsaber battles and memorable quotes to obscure character backgrounds and hidden Easter eggs.
Battle fellow fans in friendly competition as you showcase your mastery of the Force. Whether you align with the light or dark side, this is your chance to prove you're the ultimate Star Wars aficionado!
For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/9by4kth3

Saturday, May 3
• May the 4th Be With You! at Fascinate-U Children's Museum, 116 Green St., at 10 a.m.-
Prepare for an epic morning full of adventure and fun. From 10 a.m. to noon, kids will step into the Star Wars universe through a series of hands-on activities and thrilling challenges. Young Padawans will get to train with lightsabers, learn the ways of the Force, and complete special Jedi training missions. They'll also participate in Star Wars-themed crafts, including building their own droid companions and creating galactic artwork.
Come dressed as your favorite Star Wars character or wear your Jedi robes! Whether you choose to channel Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Rey, or even join the Dark Side as Darth Vader, costumes are highly encouraged. This is the perfect event for young fans to immerse themselves in the Star Wars universe and meet other young Jedi-in-training.
Every participant will receive a special Star Wars-themed goodie bag and certificate of completion from the Jedi Academy. Space is limited to ensure each young Jedi gets personal attention during the activities. Register to reserve your spot and may the Force be with you! Tickets are $5 for adults and $7 for kids.
For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/3ky3jv9e

• Star Wars Weekend: Movie on the Lawn at Rogue Toys, 151 Chatham St., Sanford at 5 p.m.-Join Rogue Toys for an unforgettable Star Wars weekend extravaganza as they celebrate the most iconic and beloved movie franchise in the galaxy with a special outdoor 'movie on the lawn' screening of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.
The evening's festivities begin at 6 p.m. with an exciting lineup of local vendors showcasing Star Wars merchandise, collectibles, and memorabilia. Inside the store, fans can take advantage of exclusive discounts and special promotions on their favorite Star Wars items. Throughout the event, attendees will have the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win incredible Star Wars-themed prizes, including limited edition collectibles, action figures, and movie memorabilia.
As the sun sets, get ready for the main event at 8 p.m. when the thrilling story of the Rebel Alliance's daring mission to steal the Death Star plans comes to life under the stars. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and join fellow Star Wars enthusiasts for this memorable cinematic experience. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/48vt964r
• Star Wars Marathon Weekend at Sunrise Theater, 250 NW Broad St., Southern Pines
Immerse yourself in the epic Star Wars saga the way it was destined to be experienced — in all its cinematic glory on the massive theater screen, with thundering surround sound that brings every lightsaber duel and space battle to vivid life. Each movie is $10. Here is the schedule of movies:
Star Wars (original) starts Saturday, May 3 at 4 p.m.
Empire Strikes Back is Saturday at 7 p.m.
Return of the Jedi is Sunday at 3 p.m.
For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/2sbczzvv

Sunday, May 4
• Star Wars Brunch at WOB Bar & Kitchen, 1944 Skibo Rd. at 11 a.m.-
May the brunch be with you! Join WOB for a galaxy-brunch far, far away—where the force is strong, and the mimosas are stronger! Dive into a Star Wars-themed dining experience that will transport you to a galaxy of delectable delights. Their menu features iconic dishes like Vader's Taters—crispy potato wedges seasoned with dark spices, and Leia's Buns—freshly baked cinnamon rolls with royal icing.
Quench your thirst with signature cocktails: the zesty Yoda 'Rita garnished with lime, or our refreshing Jedi Tropical Lemonade infused with exotic fruits from distant planets. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/4r5t7bws

Friday, May 9
• Fayetteville Woodpeckers Star Wars Game Night at Segra Stadium, 460 Hay St. at 7 p.m.- Experience an epic evening of intergalactic fun at Segra Stadium during the Fayetteville Woodpeckers' highly anticipated annual Star Wars Night game!
The Force will be strong as fans of all ages come together to celebrate this beloved franchise while enjoying America's favorite pastime. But the excitement doesn't end with the final inning - stick around after the game for a spectacular Fireworks Extravaganza. This massive pyrotechnic display will light up the night sky for approximately 8 minutes, featuring synchronized launches from two different locations, creating an unforgettable visual experience for all attendees.
Tickets start at $13. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/3whj4eje

Cinco de Mayo-May 5 Events
Saturday, May 3-Sunday, May 4
• Cinco de Mayo Event at Gaston Brewing Taproom, 421 Chicago Dr. at 6 p.m.-
Get ready for an unforgettable day of entertainment and excitement! This vibrant event features 25 diverse vendors showcasing unique products and delicious offerings from gourmet food trucks, refreshing adult beverages, and talented musicians performing live throughout the day.
Children will be delighted with multiple bounce houses for endless jumping fun, professional face painters creating magical designs, and engaging craft stations where they can unleash their creativity. The best part? This family-friendly celebration is completely free to attend, and well-behaved furry friends are welcome to join in the festivities too! For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/26khrd7b

Monday, May 5
• Cinco de Mayo Party at Stewart's Tavern, 116 N. Main St., Raeford at 7 p.m.-
Get ready to spice up your Cinco de Mayo at Stewart's Tavern! Celebrate in style with mouthwatering $2 street tacos, irresistible half-priced nachos, and refreshing margarita specials. Plus, enjoy unbeatable deals on imported drinks to keep the fiesta going all night long.
Don’t miss out on the fun, food, and festivities – grab your friends and join us for a celebration to remember! For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/4ureurd4