Entertainment

Ready plates, appetites for Great Hope Mills BBQ Throwdown

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Tuesday, 23 June 2026

Written by Mahalia Cooks

The best pitmasters will go head to head in the Great Hope Mills BBQ Throwdown on Thursday, July 2, hosted by the Hope Mills Parks & Recreation Department. Get ready to chow down at your new favorite annual event. This brand-new competition is part of the Independence Day celebrations that will be happening through the latter part of June and into July, marking the milestone of America’s 250th anniversary.

The barbecue competition will be held indoors in the Town of Hope Mills Recreation Center gymnasium at 5766 Rockfish Road, allowing attendees to kick back and enjoy great food without braving the heat. The event starts at 11 a.m. and ends at 2 p.m., giving residents plenty of time to taste-test the food and cast their votes for the ultimate Hope Mills Pitmaster Champion.

Brandon McLean, Programs Coordinator for Hope Mills Parks & Recreation, states that launching this competition came from the motivation to offer community members different ways to bond over a good meal. 

“I like to try new and different things,” McLean said. “When I first came on, I wanted to revamp everything.” 

Many sit-down luncheons have been held for holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, but this year’s grilling competition adds something special to the Throwdown. 

“I know a lot of people are great grillmasters and can cook, so we wanted to bring that talent here that’s in Hope Mills and promote that,” McLean said.

Only 100 tickets are available at $30 each; 70 have already been sold, so residents looking to attend should act fast to secure their spots. Adults 55 and older can secure half-price tickets at $15. Other discounts may be available upon request; residents are encouraged to reach out to McLean at 910-426-4061 or drop by the Recreation Center for more information.

Buying a ticket allows attendees to throw down on tasty barbecue chicken made by five elite pitmasters. During ticket registration, residents can also pick from their choice of side dishes, desserts and other meat options, such as hamburgers or hot dogs. Classic Southern favorites like banana pudding and macaroni and cheese bring together an unforgettable feast.

The winning competitor will enjoy souvenirs and bragging rights as having the best barbecue chicken in town, and they will receive recognition on the Hope Mills Parks & Recreation Department’s social media platforms. Potential rewards may increase at future Throwdowns. 

“One of the things that I’m looking to do is promote them here in the Town of Hope Mills Recreation Center,” McLean said. “So, my goal is to have their picture up on the wall along with the different trophies we have with our sports.”

Don’t forget to bring your best dancing shoes along with an empty stomach. Spotlight Entertainment LLC, known and celebrated for their DJ services and Mirror Photo Booth experiences, will be spinning tracks to get everyone moving on the dance floor. According to McLean, the business has become a staple vendor for the Recreation Center due to their phenomenal party services.

As the first of its kind, this Throwdown offers community fellowship and patriotic fun by connecting Hope Mills residents and visitors through two of the most enjoyable things in life — music and food. Plus, friendly competition keeps the interest going and the energy high. 

“This added element of the specific competition is something that I’m looking forward to, as well as the members of the public,” McLean said.

To register for a ticket, visit the Hope Mills Parks & Recreation Special Events page: https://secure.rec1.com/NC/hope-mills-nc/catalog?filter=c2VhcmNoPTQxNTIwNzA=

Gates Four Summer Concert Series comes back with 80s Unleashed and Autumn Tyde

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Tuesday, 16 June 2026

Written by Jamie Bishop

Big hits, lawn chairs and a little nostalgia are once again on the menu as the Gates Four Summer Concert Series welcomes 80s Unleashed and Autumn Tyde for an evening of music under the stars.

The concert takes place on Saturday, June 27, at Gates Four Golf & Country Club, 6775 Irongate Drive. Gates open at 5:30 p.m., with music beginning at 7 p.m.  The concert itself is free, but concertgoers can purchase VIP experiences through the Fayetteville Dinner Theatre. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://fayettevilledinnertheatre.com/shop/.

For longtime musician and producer Doyle Wood, founder of Daxwood Productions and a member of Autumn Tyde, the appeal of the series goes beyond the stage.

“The Gates Four Summer Concert Series has become a destination for people who love live music and want to enjoy a fun evening with friends,” Wood said. “People come out to dance, sing along and just have a great time together.”

This year’s show combines the energy of 80s Unleashed with the versatility of Autumn Tyde, a band Wood formed in 2023 after years spent focusing on studio work and music production.

“I didn’t like all these other guys having all the fun,” Wood joked.

The veteran guitarist and producer may have stepped away from performing for a time, but music never left his bloodstream. Through Daxwood Productions and Daxwood Records, Wood has continued producing artists and recording projects while building a band made up of seasoned musicians whose backgrounds range from higher education to church music ministries.

“We’ve got really good players,” Wood said. “Everybody’s versatile. Some of these guys play multiple instruments, and that’s what makes this band special.”

On June 27, Autumn Tyde will perform as a five-piece group featuring guitar, bass, keyboards, drums and horns. But don’t let the number fool anyone. The lineup is stacked with musicians who seamlessly switch roles. One keyboard player doubles on guitar, the drummer can play bass, and the horn section covers everything from soprano saxophone to aerophone.

The result is a sound that allows the band to move effortlessly between genres while keeping audiences guessing what might come next.

Concertgoers can expect a musical journey through the decades with selections from Prince, Santana, Eric Clapton and the Eagles mixed throughout the evening. Wood said the band plans to lean into the spirit of the night while adding its own flavor.

“We’ll just try to have fun with it,” he said. “That’s really what it’s all about.”

Sharing the bill is 80s Unleashed, fronted by Brian Shaw, whom Wood has known for years.

“They’ve got a great trio,” Wood said. “They always sound good.”

Bill Bowman, publisher, Up & Coming Weekly, is the mind behind the Gates Four Summer Concert Series. He has long supported free concerts in the area.

“80s Unleashed brings incredible energy to every performance,” Bowman said. “They know how to connect with the crowd and create an experience that lets people relive some great memories.”

For Wood, the setting itself is part of the attraction. Having performed and participated in tournaments at Gates Four for years, he appreciates the atmosphere as much as the music.

“It’s a nice venue,” he said. “You’re sitting right there on the 18th green. People bring their lawn chairs, some sit under the covered area, and hopefully, we’ll have great weather. It’s always a fun show out there.”

Those who attend the concert will find several amenities. Two full service bars are available. Food trucks will be on site, and indoor dining options are available, too. Door prizes are also part of the fun. Concertgoers are encouraged to bring lawn chairs to watch the free concert.

Wood believes Fayetteville and the surrounding region are blessed with an abundance of musical talent.

“A lot of seasoned players have landed here,” Wood said. “People may not realize just how many great musicians there are in this area.”

As for what keeps him returning to the stage after decades in the business, Wood says the answer is simple.

“What these guys do for me is keep me young by trying to stay musically fit,” he said with a laugh. “The work is just taking the gear out there. The rest of it’s fun.”

And that’s exactly what concertgoers can expect, a celebration of summer, friendship and timeless music, served with plenty of heart and perhaps a few memories from decades gone by.

“The Greatest Baby Shower on Earth” comes to Clinton

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Tuesday, 23 June 2026

Written by Crissy Neville

Bottles. Pampers, sizes zero to four. Baby and toddler toys. Burp cloths. Baby washcloths or bath kits containing baby soap and shampoo —all are appreciated and welcomed gifts for the expectant moms and dads invited to a coming-soon Sampson County event. The nonprofit Grace Helping Others, Inc. hosts its annual community baby shower July 11 from noon to 4 p.m. at Twisted Vines, 82 Twisted Vines Lane, in Clinton. Now in its sixth year, the public shower undergirds new parents with education, resources and a plethora of baby gifts, all complimentary for attendees. Interested? Expectant and new parents can register through June 30. 

“The Greatest Baby Shower on Earth” is the theme for the Grace Helping Others, Inc. 2026 event. The shower celebrates new beginnings and supports growing families in the nonprofit service area of Sampson, Cumberland, Hoke, Duplin, Scotland and Wayne counties. Grace Helping Others, Inc. has the mission of “uplifting lives through service rooted in grace, respect and purpose.”  

Founded in 2021 in Fayetteville by Carmen Jones and supported by a network of volunteers, the organization, per its website  www.gracehelpingothers.org/, is “committed to meeting people where they are and, by walking alongside them, helping transform hardships into hopes and challenges into opportunity.” 

Headquartered in Clinton, the organization has a multi-county reach that exists “to bring hope, dignity and tangible support to individuals and families when they need it most.” 

Founder and Executive Director Jones explained more. 

“Our baby shower caters to moms and dads. It’s an adults-only event. We do a full-fledged baby shower with games and plenty of gifts. This year, everything is in the backdrop of the carnival theme. We will have bright colors, reds, blues and yellows, a popcorn machine, funnel cakes, fun games and food such as Mexican corn and more. We will give out tickets for participants to win generous door prizes.”

Community sponsors and supporters of Grace Helping Others, Inc. have stepped up to ensure no shower guest leaves empty-handed. 

“Some of our Facebook friends have donated umbrella strollers, diapers, wet wipes and other goodies,” Jones said. 

Other takeaways include postpartum kits, diaper bags donated by The Underground Railroad Ministry from Harnett County, bottles, pacifiers, birth to toddler aged toys, clothing and more.

Community and corporate sponsors will present attendees with resource information, education, gifts and support. Presenters include MAAME, Community-Rooted Maternal Health & Birth Equity; AmeriHealth Caritas NC-Medicaid Managed Care; Sampson County WIC Project; Sampson Regional Medical Center; Life Line Sampson, a pregnancy care center in Clinton; Sampson County Social Services Department; and Community Care of North Carolina, among other entities. 

Jones is excited about this year’s lineup. 

“Every year, the shower grows to be more and more,” she said. “We started out slow, but the initiative is expanding, and we are getting more and different sponsors. The community is aware of us now.”

The shower is also growing in attendance. 

“We are focused on getting 50 attendees,” Jones shared. “Individuals can register by themselves or bring a plus one. All attendees must be aged 18 and over.”

“We are here to help,” Jones continued. “I am a connector. If an expectant or new parent calls me and says, ‘I don’t have this or that,’ I will reach out to the appropriate resource to help the person and will make the connection happen.” 

Jones gave a recent example of how Grace Helping Others, Inc. networks on behalf of new moms and dads. 

“Yesterday, we had a young mother in Fayetteville who was going to be discharged from the hospital reach out to ask for help with a car seat. I reached the Cape Fear Foundation from Cape Fear Valley Medical Center and was able to connect her with the social worker to get the ball rolling. She will be going home with the baby and with a car seat,” she said.

The organization’s name stems from Jones’ desire to help other people and her acknowledgment of God’s grace and mercy. 

“We try to do everything gracefully,” Jones said. 

An affiliate of Toys for Tots of the Marine Corps Reserve, Jones’ awareness of the needs of individuals and families led her to birth Grace Helping Others, Inc.

Jones explained why grace matters. 

“Change begins when people care enough to act. Every meal served, every family supported and every life touched creates a ripple of hope that strengthens entire communities. At Grace Helping Others, Inc., we believe that when service is driven by compassion, lives are truly changed.”

Volunteers are essential for fulfilling the organization’s outreach and goals. In addition to helping with the annual baby shower, Grace Helping Others, Inc. also utilizes volunteers for outreach and engagement, administrative support, media and communications, resource distribution, educational programs and other events. The nonprofit hosts at least five community-driven fundraisers each year and supports a minimum of 200 individuals and families. They provide necessities like food and clothing, offer workshops that educate, empower and inspire and assist families in building a strong, sustainable foundation for long-term success. 

Interested individuals or groups can donate monetarily year-round or bring baby shower gifts to 606 College Street, Clinton. Find out more by calling Jones at 910-224-0082 or emailing info@gracehelpingothers.org. To sign up for the baby shower, go to www.gracehelpingothers.org/event-details.sampson-county-community-baby-shower-1

Join Hope Mills for 4th of July, America 250 celebrations

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Tuesday, 16 June 2026

Written by Mahalia Cooks

Festivities for the United States Semiquincentennial are underway as cities across North Carolina prepare to host celebrations for this once-in-a-lifetime event. This year’s Independence Day marks a special occasion — the 250th anniversary of the ratification of the Declaration of Independence, the founding document that announced the separation of the 13 colonies from Great Britain.

One such event celebrating the occasion is happening close to home. The Hope Mills Parks & Recreation returns with its 44th Independence Day Kickoff Celebration on Saturday, June 27. 

“As our nation celebrates our 250th anniversary, we are excited to celebrate the spirit of America with an evening focused on community and family fun,” said Meagan Mereness, Special Events & Communications Coordinator for Hope Mills Parks & Recreation. 

The celebration will be held at Hope Mills Municipal Park at 5766 Rockfish Road. According to Mereness, the park has served as the staple spot for the celebration for many years due to its accessibility, amenities and central location, providing ample space for residents and visitors alike to enjoy fireworks, live entertainment and much more. The Kickoff Celebration is free to enter, though it’s always a wise idea to keep some cash on hand for purchasing goods from vendors.

It all kicks off at 5 p.m. with live music from singer-songwriter Julia Golden. She hails from Carthage, NC, and recently appeared on Season 29 of the NBC television show “The Voice” as a member of Team Kelly, displaying her powerful vocals. The tunes will carry on late into the night with the renowned Southeast band Spare Change performing from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Based in La Grange, NC, the band bangs out tracks across a range of genres, including country, beach music, funk, rap, today’s Top 40 hits and classic rock.

Like in previous years, this year’s musical acts were chosen for their broad appeal, vibrant onstage energy and ties to the Tar Heel State. Attendees can expect an evening of family-friendly fun with fresh entertainment and the return of traditional favorites such as face painting and a petting zoo. 

As a testament to our region’s plethora of delicious cuisines from varied cultures, attendees will also be able to indulge in good eats from over 16 food trucks. Options cover everything from sweet treats to schnitzel and Latin dishes.

A fireworks show at 9 p.m. will cap the night off with a patriotic display of red, white and blue bursting across the skies. The celebration allows people around the area to gather for an observance of patriotism, freedom and communal bonds, proving its enduring value to the community. 

“Events like this help strengthen community connections, support local businesses and vendors and create lasting memories for residents of all ages,” Mereness said. “It is one of Hope Mills' signature events and showcases the pride we have in our town and the people who call it home.”

Following the Independence Day Kickoff on June 27, the city’s 44th Independence Day Parade will be held on Saturday, July 4 at 10 a.m., starting at Rockfish Elementary and ending at Hope Mills Middle School. Parade lineup starts at 8 a.m.

Mereness notes that holding the parade on a separate day is an intentional choice that was requested by residents. This offers an additional opportunity for the community to celebrate July Fourth on the day of, keeping the joy and anticipation going all week long. Attendees also have the peace of mind of escaping the blazing afternoon heat while participating in the parade.

Registration for the Independence Day Parade closes on June 20 at 5 p.m. and is open to parties traveling with various modes of transportation, including horses, motorcycles and floats.

Both events offer a safe and fun way to enjoy this milestone with loved ones and fellow residents, marking new memories while honoring our nation’s history. 

“One of the most rewarding aspects of organizing this event is seeing the community come together,” Mereness said. “Seeing those moments of connection and joy makes all of the hard work worthwhile.”

For more information on the Kickoff Celebration and Parade, visit the Town of Hope Mills Parks & Recreation page at https://www.townofhopemills.com/349/Independence-Day-Celebration 

(Photo: Residents of Hope Mills gathered for fireworks at the 2025 Fourth of July celebration. This year, in addition to the Fourth, the Town of Hope Mills will be celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States becoming a country. Photos courtesy of Town of Hope Mills Parks and Rec.)