Entertainment

Back to school giveaways help Cumberland County families

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Tuesday, 29 July 2025

Written by Sheila D. Barker

It's that time of year again—kids are heading back to school! We've compiled a roundup of all the supply giveaways and preschool celebrations taking place in our community. Check it out and get ready for an exciting new school year!
Friday, Aug. 1
• Back to School Bash
Club Halo, 1501 Skibo Rd.
10 a.m.
Backpacks and school supplies will be given to children in need in the parking lot of Club Halo while supplies last. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/ykbux5xs.
Saturday, Aug. 2
• Annual Back-to-School Giveaway
Anderson Creek Community Church, 2085 Ray Rd., Spring Lake
9 a.m.
Book bags, school supplies, food, drinks, and hygiene items will be handed out. This is open to students in K-12th grades. The child must be present to receive items. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/2s3r79fb.
• Community BACK 2 SCHOOL Outreach
Christ Worship Center Church, 4453 Black Bridge Rd., Parkton
11 a.m.
Free book bags filled with school supplies will be handed out. Free haircuts will be given to school-age boys. For more info: Call 910-423-7777 or visit cwcconline.org.
• Back to School Catfish for Kids Bash
Deep Creek Outfitters, 1122 Person St.
9 a.m.
Join the Bottom Feeders Fishing Club at Deep Creek Outfitters for a fun-filled day of fishing, laughter, and community as they celebrate the end of summer and gear up for the school year! Enjoy a fantastic atmosphere with prizes, music, delicious food, and plenty of catfish. Don’t forget to bring your fishing rods—it's going to be a great time! For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/mvdb4fan.
• Back 2 School Community Day
Rock Spring AME Zion Church, 4028 Legion Rd., Hope Mills
10 a.m.
The community day will be a chance for kids to get school supplies, food, and free haircuts. There will also be a bouncy house, petting zoo, and local vendors. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/mts4tyk8.
Tuesday, Aug. 5
• Back-to-School Teacher Appreciation Night
WoodmenLife Chapter 60, 414 E. Mountain Dr.
6:30 p.m.
Join WoodmenLife Chapter 60 wants to show their thanks and appreciation to all the amazing teachers out there. Enjoy free subs and snacks and receive a goody bag filled with supplies for your classroom while supplies last. Please bring your school ID to the event.
To RSVP, call 910-485-1577.
Thursday, Aug. 7
• Back 2 School Bash
Prodigal Ministries, 7345 Clinton Rd., Stedman
7 p.m.
Come out and get a bookbag filled with school supplies. Enjoy some food, a bounce house, games, and music. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/bdzh3p4d.
Friday, Aug. 8
• Back-to-School Bash & Alumni Soccer Game
Fayetteville Academy, 3200 Cliffdale Rd.
4 p.m.
Join Fayetteville Academy on Aug. 8 for their exciting 2025–2026 Back-to-School Bash and Alumni Soccer Game! They’re thrilled to celebrate the Lacrosse State Championship Team with a special tribute. Enjoy delicious food from local food trucks, bounce around in the inflatable bounce house, groove to some great music, and so much more! Don’t miss out on the fun! For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/4pk6xthc
Saturday, Aug. 9
• Kids Back to School Bowling
Dragon Lanes, 1013 Bastogne Dr., Fort Bragg
1 p.m.
Exciting news for kids ages 5 to 16! The first 250 kids to arrive will enjoy a complimentary game of bowling and a free meal! For everyone else in that age group, just $5 gets you a hot dog, a 16oz soda, one game of bowling, and shoe rental. Plus, they’ll be giving away backpacks filled with school supplies to kids ages 5 to 16—while supplies last, so be sure to get there early! And don’t worry, parents and siblings can join in on the fun too! You can bowl a game and rent shoes for just $1 each. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/ycycw4ba.
• Back to School Bash
1Hope, 1922 Henley Rd., Sanford
6 p.m.
Bring the family out for free school supplies, snacks, games, and door prizes. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/rjrsnn2a.
• FLOW Automotive Back-To-School Bash with the Fayetteville Marksmen
Flow Buick-GMC of Fayetteville, 5264 Red Tip Rd.
11 a.m.
Starting at 11 a.m., families from Cumberland County Schools can present their completed bookmarks to receive complimentary tickets to an exciting hockey game! A big thank you to FLOW Automotive for providing students with the chance to take home new school supplies after enjoying some tasty snacks and fun activities at the dealership! And don’t forget—keep pushing through as you work towards finishing your summer reading goals! You've got this! For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/4493sfs2.
• Rhema Ministries Back to School Bash
Rhema Ministries COGIC, 539 Horseshoe Rd.
11 a.m.
At this Back-to-School Bash, kids will receive book bags and school supplies. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/384c37m2.
• Ready, Set, Smile Back to School Jam & Health Fair
Evans Metropolitan AME Zion Church
301 N. Cool Spring Street
10 a.m.
Bring the family out for free Colgate dental screenings, health resources, school supplies, food and tasty treats, music, games, and more. Meet the Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club and Bunker, the Fayetteville Woodpeckers' mascot. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/29x2bd3k.
• Sábado 9 de agosto
Back to School Bash
Ministerio Monte De Los Olivos, 1028 Pamalee Dr.
9 a.m.
¡Ven y preparate con nosotros para este regreso a clases!
Estaremos entregando mochilas con útiles escolares, tendremos free garage, entre otras actividades. Cada mochila tendrá: 3 libretas, 2 Folders, Lápices de Colores, Lápices, Crayolas, & Gomas para borrar. ¡No querrás perdértelo! Para obtener más información, visite https://www.facebook.com/events/1790558215003448.
Wednesday, Aug. 13
• Back to School BBQ
Hillcrest Baptist Church, 2699 US 401 Business, Raeford
5 p.m.
Celebrate the start of a new year with a BBQ with pulled pork, hot dogs, coleslaw, baked beans, chips, and dessert. Also enjoy outdoor games like basketball, pickleball, cornhole, and more. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/yyd669a2.
Saturday, Aug. 16
• Back to School Festival
Berean Baptist Academy, 518 Glensford Dr.
10 a.m.
This year’s festival is set to align perfectly with the Bulldog Classic, their annual varsity-level volleyball and soccer tournament hosted by the BBA athletic department to kick off the sports season. As a special treat, school families will enjoy free admission to all the tournament games that day. Come out and support the teams while having a great time! For more information, visit
https://tinyurl.com/22dzy9ad.
• Back-to-School Supply & Food Drive
Eureka Baptist Church, 1591 Eureka Ave.
11 a.m.
Free boxes of food, including chicken and non-perishable items, will be given out, as well as school supplies for students in grades K-12 (backpacks not included). For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/2ch9uj54.
• Hoke County Back to School Bash
East Hoke Middle School, 4702 Fayetteville Rd., Raeford
9 a.m.
Come out for a fantastic school supply giveaway, delicious food, and loads of fun! There will be local schools and community organizations on hand, so it’s a great chance to connect and get ready for the school year. Don’t miss out! For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/mrvrsveh.
• 18th Gotcha' Back School Kickoff
Crown Expo Center, 1960 Coliseum Dr
11 a.m.
August 16th is a day dedicated to community, culture, and connection! Head out to the Crown Expo Center for an exciting lineup of events, including: Free backpacks and school supplies, a Candidate’s Fair and voter registration, an HBCU College Fair and step show, a Youth Symposium and empowerment sessions. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to engage, learn, and connect with others in our community! For more information, contact thegrouptheoryinc@gmail.com.
Saturday, Aug. 23
• Back To School Giveaway
Big Erv BBQ & 910 Sweets, 670 N. Reilly Rd.
1 p.m.
Join in for the 2nd Annual Book Bag and School Supply Giveaway, hosted by Big Erv BBQ & 910 Sweets! Mark your calendars for Saturday, August 23rd. Bring the whole family to enjoy a day filled with fun activities, including a bounce house, yard games, great music, and delicious food at “The Neighborhood Pit Stop.” For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/pfjbv2by.
Sunday, Aug. 24
• 3rd Annual Back to School Bazaar
Rainbow Clothing Store Parking Lot, 5701 Yadkin Rd.
3 p.m.
Get ready for a Double Dutch Competition, Talent Showcase, school supply and gym bag giveaway, fashion show, karaoke, outdoor activities, games, food and more. To register, email iamplush2010@gmail.com.
Saturday, Aug. 30
• Back to School Kickoff
College Lakes Recreation Center, 4945 Rosehill Rd.
1 p.m.
Head out for a great free family event that includes fun, games, activities, prizes, giveaways, and more. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/26594553.

Gates Four Summer Concert Series closes with Shoot to Thrill, Aug. 8

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Tuesday, 29 July 2025

Written by Jamie Bishop

Fayetteville’s summer music scene will end on a high-voltage note this August as Shoot to Thrill, the nation’s premier all-female AC/DC tribute band, headlines the final installment of the Gates Four Summer Concert Series. The performance is scheduled for Friday, Aug. 8, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., at the scenic Gates Four Golf & Country Club.
The Aug. 8 concert marks the grand finale of the fifth annual summer series, a season that has offered Cumberland County residents a mix of live music, food, family fun, and community pride. Shoot to Thrill brings a thunderous close to a series that’s become one of Fayetteville’s most beloved traditions.
Formed in Raleigh, North Carolina, Shoot to Thrill is a powerhouse ensemble of seasoned female musicians who recreate the explosive energy, swagger, and sound of rock legends AC/DC. With precision instrumentation and electrifying vocals, the band covers hits from AC/DC’s expansive catalog, including Highway to Hell, You Shook Me All Night Long, T.N.T., and, of course, Shoot to Thrill.
The group features Wendy “Angus” Brewer on lead guitar, Tracy H. as Brian Johnson on lead vocals, Amanda D. on rhythm guitar, Kate C. on bass, and Sarah T. on drums. Their chemistry on stage and attention to detail have earned them national recognition, viral video acclaim, and a loyal fanbase across the East Coast and beyond.
Unlike many tribute bands, Shoot to Thrill doesn’t just cover songs they embody the AC/DC experience, delivering high-voltage rock performances while flipping the traditionally male-dominated rock genre on its head.
“Every member of this band is a talented musician in her own right,” noted one regional review. “Together, they create a show that is both authentic and fresh, bringing a whole new dynamic to AC/DC’s legendary sound.”
The concert on Aug. 8 not only celebrates the end of another successful summer series but also highlights the commitment of organizers to combine entertainment with impact.
“Shoot to Thrill is the perfect closer,” said Bill Bowman, publisher of Up & Coming Weekly and a key organizer of the series. “They bring an intensity and crowd energy that mirrors what we’ve tried to build over five seasons something powerful, exciting, and totally inclusive.”
Bowman said the Gates Four Summer Concert Series was founded to offer top-tier entertainment for the Fayetteville community while creating a platform for regional talent and charitable outreach. He described the concert series as “a gift to the community,” one made possible by local sponsors and community partners.
“This is about more than music,” Bowman added. “It’s about creating moments that bring people together and making sure they’re meaningful.”
The gates open at 5:30 p.m., and guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and friends for an evening of loud, unapologetic rock-and-roll. In addition to the music, attendees can expect: Savory and sweet food offerings, two on-site cash bars with wine, beer, and mixed drinks, A VIP Pavilion seating option for those looking for a reserved and shaded concert experience. In addition, there is free parking, indoor restrooms, and pet-friendly policies for maximum comfort.
Though general admission is free, VIP reserved seating is available for purchase through the Fayetteville Dinner Theatre website at www.fayettevilledinnertheatre.com, and is expected to sell out quickly. The concert series encourages guests to enjoy the open space, mingle with neighbors, and experience a performance that’s equal parts nostalgia and electric celebration.
The Gates Four Summer Concert Series was launched five years ago to enhance Fayetteville’s live entertainment scene and offer residents a free, high-quality alternative to ticketed events and long-distance travel. Hosted on the well-manicured grounds of Gates Four Golf & Country Club, the event has become a go-to summer experience.
Over the years, the series has featured a diverse lineup from local jazz quartets and blues bands to symphony ensembles and rock tribute acts. This season’s performers have included the Guy Unger Band, Joyner, Young & Marie, Beggars Banquet (a Rolling Stones tribute), and the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra. But beyond the music and hospitality, there’s a philanthropic purpose behind the event.
Proceeds from VIP ticket sales benefit the Kidsville News! Literacy and Education Foundation; a local nonprofit committed to increasing childhood literacy and access to educational materials throughout Cumberland County. The foundation collaborates with area schools, libraries, and parents to provide free resources that support early literacy and lifelong learning. Local businesses and civic partners play an essential role in keeping the concert series free and accessible. Title sponsors include All American Homes, Certified Heating & Air Conditioning of Parkton, and ServPro, among others.
The Greater Fayetteville Chamber, Beasley Media Group, Healy Wholesale, Rocket Fizz, CSI, and Main Event have also contributed, ensuring that both logistical support and family entertainment are seamlessly woven into the event’s structure. The inclusion of Main Event this year has been a major enhancement, providing a family-friendly play zone and ensuring the concerts remain inclusive to attendees of all ages. As the sun sets on Aug. 8 and the lights come up on the outdoor pavilion, Shoot to Thrill will take the stage not just as entertainers, but as representatives of everything the series stands for: community, connection and unforgettable live performance. With a thunderous setlist and a mission to empower through music, their performance is expected to draw record crowds and deliver one of the most memorable nights of the season.
As Bowman said in closing, “We’re proud to have built something that feels like Fayetteville; energetic, diverse, and filled with heart. This final show is going to be something special, and we can’t wait to see everyone out there.”

Misfits Market carves out space for diverse makers, creatives

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Tuesday, 29 July 2025

Written by Anna White

When their weekly Farmer’s Market started attracting vendors that weren’t quite the right fit, Dirtbag Ales Brewery and Taproom knew it was time to branch out. Many in the community were looking for a space to showcase wares and services of a more eccentric variety or simply wares and services that didn’t align with the farmer’s market’s target audience. The solution? A “Misfits Market.”
The market, according to Mandy, markets manager, and Shannon, operations manager, highlights a variety of genres. From horror and anime, to insect and taxidermy specimens, to alternative art, general “nerdy” oddities, and palm readers, there’s a little something for everyone.
“It’s a great space for them to come out and express themselves and show off their talent,” Mandy and Shannon said. They added that the market has been very well received and that vendors are “absolutely happy,” often booking a spot for the whole season in advance.
Now in its third year, the Misfits Market runs from April to October and takes place the first Wednesday of every month. It often attracts roughly 350-500 visitors and 27-30 vendors, which by no means fills Dirtbag Ales’ open-air, 6-acre lot to full capacity. “There’s always space for more vendors!” Mandy and Shannon explained. “We’re always growing.”
With food trucks ready to serve up delectable treats and live music as a backdrop, visitors can easily make a day out of the event, lingering over the artistry and stepping away for a bite at their convenience.
Past vendors have enchanted visitors with a variety of wares: A thrift vendor repurposes and resells curated finds—vintage items, brand name apparel, and unique accessories—saving even the savviest thrifter time spent digging through their local thrift store. One vendor nestles pieces of moss, animal skulls, and dried flowers inside bell jars, creating one-of-a-kind curiosities that transport viewers. Some sell t-shirts with “snarky” quotes, and others offer handmade, themed, silk scrunchies—Stitch, Pokemon, Hello Kitty, patriotic themes, teacher themes, and more all made the list. Even a local non-profit beard and mustache club has attended as a vendor.
“We just keep finding these great local vendors who offer kind of alternative items.” Shannon and Mandy explained. “Our crowd is very diverse.”
Dirtbag Ales’ Instagram page offered the following encouragement, “Whether you're into the mystical, the musical, or just here for the food and brews — there's something for everyone. Don’t miss it!”
The brewery and taproom host many other events, including Octoberfest, a Christmas market and a vintage market. Interested vendors can reach representatives at vendors@dirtbagales.com.
The next Misfits Market will be held Wednesday, Aug. 6, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at 5435 Corporation Dr, Hope Mills.

Motorcycle ministry gives back with toy drive

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Tuesday, 22 July 2025

Written by Lena Simmons

For it is giving that we receive.
—St. Francis of Assisi

The Sons of the Savior Motorcycle Ministry of Fayetteville is hosting the Christmas in July Toy Run to benefit the Salvation Army of Fayetteville Angel Tree Program and Fayetteville Urban Ministries on Aug. 2, 2025. The event will be held at Fort Bragg Harley-Davidson from 9:30 a.m. to noon. Coffee and donuts will be available upon registration at 9:30 a.m. At 11 a.m., it will be time for “kickstands up;” an escorted ride to the Salvation Army of Fayetteville will commence, ending with hamburgers and hot dogs. The registration fee is $10, and a new, unwrapped toy is required for all riders. The sponsors for this event are Sons of the Savior MM Exodus Chapter, the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office and Fort Bragg Harley-Davidson. For more information, contact email sonsofthesavior.fayetteville.nc@gmail.com
Scott Justus, Robert House, Gary Benfield and Roy Shelson founded the Sons of the Savior MM in March 2014. The gentlemen knew the need for a brotherhood and sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ, but more importantly, put their faith into action.
“We like to say we are a ministry with a riding habit. We thank the Salvation Army for their leadership and shared vision,” they said.
The founders have diverse backgrounds ranging from drug abuse to being a first responder, a business owner and a professional wrestler. The Sons of the Savior MM has various chapters of the motorcycle ministries, such as Genesis, Exodus, Dauntless, Legacy, and Agape. Two new motorcycle ministries are opening in Topeka, Kansas, and Austin, Texas.
The statement of purpose of the Sons of the Savior MM Exodus Chapter is to go into the world and preach the gospel.
“I have experienced a lifelong association with the Salvation Army, beginning at birth as the child of officers, who served as ordained ministers. I have consistently attended the Salvation Army church and supported its mission throughout my life. My life-long commitment is serving individuals in need without discrimination,” said Norman Zanders, president, Sons of the Savior MM Exodus Chapter. “I have served in the capacity of Emergency Disaster and Volunteer Coordinator at the Salvation Army for the past five years. One of my responsibilities consisted of participating in the Angel Tree program during Christmas time. It is vital to ensure that children in need receive gifts through the generosity of community donors and volunteers.”
The group aims to offer companionship and assistance to bikers as well as others encountered during the rides and gatherings, regardless of individual backgrounds or beliefs. The focus seeks to share encouragement, support during times of need, difficulty, bereavement, happiness, and celebration. Membership is open to motorcycle riders and people who drive automobiles.
“Every year, the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office conducts 'Shop with A Sheriff' Christmas in July toy drive. The Toy Drive is usually the last week in July at the various Walmart stores in Cumberland County. The donations are divided between the Salvation Army and Fayetteville Urban Ministries,” Zanders said. “This year, Sons of the Savior asked if we could partner with the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office to conduct a Christmas in July Toy Run to wrap up their ‘Shop with the Sheriff’ event. The answer was a resounding yes. The event on Aug. 2, will feature coffee, donuts, Christmas music, and Salvation Army mascot, Captain Kettle. The community style picnic serving hamburgers and hot dogs will be located at the Salvation Army Shelter, 245 Alexander Street.”
Great opportunities to help others seldom come, but small ones surround us every day, states Sally Koch. Share a small opportunity and purchase a new, unwrapped toy for the Christmas in July Toy Run.