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Tuesday, 11 November 2025
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Written by Sheila D. Barker
Mark your calendars for Saturday, Nov. 22, as the team at Dirtbag Ales Brewery & Taproom in Hope Mills is hosting its second annual Oyster Roast. This event is designed to bring together the local community for a relaxed and enjoyable afternoon, featuring delicious food, drinks, and great company in an outdoor setting. For anyone in the area or those looking for something unique to do, this is a gathering that promises to deliver a memorable experience.
The event will take place at the spacious pavilion on Dirtbag’s property. With plenty of room to move around and socialize, the location is ideal for an event of this kind. Attendees can look forward to an assortment of fresh oysters, roasted on-site to perfection, alongside an impressive selection of craft beers brewed right at Dirtbag. The casual, friendly atmosphere makes it a great place to meet new people or spend time with friends. Whether you are passionate about oysters or simply looking for a laid-back way to spend a Saturday, this is the perfect opportunity to kick back and have some fun.
One of the highlights of the event is the fresh oysters prepared right in front of the guests, which is not something often found at breweries. Pair these with a cold craft beer, and you have a winning combination. Dirtbag Ales is known for its welcoming vibe and dedication to fostering a sense of community, and this event captures that spirit perfectly. The brewery’s location in Hope Mills makes it easy to access while still feeling like a cozy gathering spot rather than a large, impersonal venue. For those who haven’t been to Dirtbag Ales before, this is also a fantastic opportunity to explore their taproom and enjoy some of their seasonal offerings or long-time favorites in a lively and festive setting.
If you’re planning to attend, here are a few tips to make the most of your visit. Arrive early to secure a good spot under the pavilion, as these types of events often draw a significant crowd from the local area. Seating may fill up quickly, so getting there ahead of time ensures you’ll have the best view and setup for the afternoon. Given that this is an outdoor event in late November, consider dressing in layers to stay comfortable. The evenings can get chilly in the Fayetteville and Hope Mills area, especially if you’re spending a lot of time outside. If you have dietary restrictions, such as a shellfish allergy, it’s worth reaching out to the brewery ahead of time to see what other options might be available or to plan accordingly. Parking can also be a bit tight, so it’s a good idea to leave a little extra time to find a spot and get situated before the festivities begin. Additionally, consider bringing along a reusable cup. This not only adds to the experience but is also an environmentally friendly choice.
Do you enjoy good food, fresh beer, and a chance to unwind in a welcoming space? Do you like the idea of supporting a local business that values its community? Dirtbag’s Oyster Roast is an ideal way to spend a Saturday afternoon in the fall. Whether you’re a local who frequents the brewery or someone visiting the area, the laid-back atmosphere and festive vibe make it a standout event. The fact that this is the second year the Oyster Roast is happening speaks to its success the first time around. Guests can expect a well-organized and thoughtfully planned experience.
Head over to 5435 Corporation Dr., Hope Mills, on Nov. 22, and get ready for a day of fun. The event promises to be more than just a gathering—it’s a celebration of food, drinks, and community that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re a fan of oysters, craft beer, or just looking for something fun to do, this is one event you don’t want to miss. Grab a few friends or come solo and enjoy the relaxed, friendly vibe that Dirtbag Ales is known for.
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Tuesday, 11 November 2025
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Written by Anna White
Creating and consuming stories has always been part of Kayla E. Green’s life. In elementary school, she wrote her first “book,” calling it The Lonely Guinea Pig. Then, at a schoolbook fair, Green found a book with a title that resonated with her; its theme included siblings with chronic illness.
Growing up watching her twin sister struggle with a severe autoimmune condition, Green found the title, which included similar themes, alluring. The story was a disappointment, though. She described it as “depressing and hopeless,” but it made her think.
“Children and adolescents who have chronic illness and know people closely who have invisible/visible disabilities deserve to find realistic portrayals that still offer encouragement,” she shared. Now facing the challenges of chronic illness herself as an adult, Green is even more motivated to fill that gap. She writes the kind of books she wanted to read when she was younger; Young Adult noblebright fantasy novels that point to greater themes of light, darkness, and ultimate hope.
“Nobelbright is a subgenre where good prevails over evil,” Green explained. Her recent publication and first full-length novel, The Goodness of Unicorns, explores just that.
She says the story follows “one girl determined to heal her sister and another looking for purpose in a nation on the brink of war. And unicorns—with a twist you’ve never seen before.”
The Goodness of Unicorns received the International Christ Lit Book Award, and the following praise from CEO Louise Jane: “The plot is a marvel in itself, brimming with meaningful details that provoke thought and reflection. I greatly appreciated the way the narrative begins by presenting two fascinating stories that are later intertwined, resulting in a fantastic tale that keeps readers interested and excited to flip through the pages.
"Green's storytelling is not just entertaining; it is imbued with values that are vitally important for young adults to be exposed to. The narrative emphasizes the significance of faith and the reliance on God, particularly in times when prayers seem unanswered.”
Previously a teacher and now a mother, Green says she's always felt called to minister to young people. Motivated by the memory of her own childhood interest in relatable stories and her faith in Christ, she hopes to fill a gap in the literary world by writing what she describes as “clean, age-appropriate reads that children enjoy.”
“Though the story will appeal to readers of fantasy, it is written from a Christian worldview,” she shared. She hopes that through writing “wholesome stories that don’t shy away from hard truths,” her readers will be pointed to God and His goodness.
“Even though there is darkness in the world, and we don’t always see the light because of it, God is always there,” she said, quoting Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
For a signed copy of The Goodness of Unicorns and a chance to meet the author, visit Fulfillity Books & More, located at 5548 Trade St. in Hope Mills, Nov. 15, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
“I’m hoping having the signing and her books at the store will introduce her to a new audience,” said Ashley Wilson, owner and author at Fulfillity Books & More. “Fulfillity is built to be a reflection of the local reader community. By keeping local authors stocked, we not only support other independent ‘businesses,’ but help our local reader community have a taste of what’s nearby to encourage community connection and pride.”
“I love meeting readers of all ages!” concluded Green. “If anyone has not visited Fulfillity yet, then this is the perfect opportunity to check out this precious shop!”
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