Entertainment

Rock'n On The River concert series is back

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Tuesday, 06 May 2025

Written by Sheila D. Barker

Rock’n On The River concert series officially kicks off its highly anticipated summer season on May 16. This exciting event, running since 2018, has become a staple for music lovers, thanks to the generous sponsorship of Healy Wholesale. The series promises an evening filled with energetic performances and great vibes, setting the perfect tone for an unforgettable summer.
Located at Campbellton Landing at Deep Creek Outfitters, 1122 Person St, the event offers not just fantastic music but also a beautiful riverside setting. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs or blankets to fully enjoy the concert experience.
Reflections II Band takes the stage at 6 p.m., offering a rich and diverse musical journey that spans multiple genres. Originally started as an all-family band in 1980 under the name 'The Reflections,' the band has evolved over the years but continues to deliver a versatile performance.
The band members, Mike Donald (Keyboards, bass, lead vocals, background vocals), Paul Tyler (guitar, lead vocals, background vocals), and Dan Magid (Drums, vocals) bring a wealth of talent and experience to the stage. Their favorite saying, 'We play everything from Funk to Junk,' perfectly encapsulates their eclectic style and broad appeal.
At 8 p.m., prepare to be blown away by Mostley Crue, the ultimate tribute to Motley Crue. Formed in 2007 in Raleigh, Mostley Crue has earned a reputation for their electrifying and authentic performances. Fronted by Gabriel Pettit, who is renowned for his uncanny ability to mimic Vince Neil’s range, tone, and stage presence, the band delivers a high-energy show that captures the essence of Motley Crue.
The lineup is completed by Darius Rose as Tommy Lee, Kevin Dollar as Mick Mars, and Dustin Eldreth as Nikki Sixx. With their searing raw energy and powerful delivery, Mostley Crue not only sounds like the real deal but also incorporates the look and style of both past and present Motley Crue, making for an unforgettable experience.
While the concert itself is free, there is a $10 fee for parking, so come prepared. Please note that outside coolers or containers are not allowed, but food and drinks will be available for purchase onsite.
To make the most of the evening, bring a chair or blanket to sit on and enjoy the music comfortably. With a lineup featuring both Reflections II and Mostley Crue, concert goers are in for a night of diverse and exciting performances.
One of the highlights of Rock'n On The River is its commitment to giving back to the community. Half of the beer proceeds from the event will be donated to the Karen Chandler Trust Cancer Charity. This organization provides crucial support to cancer patients and their families, making your evening of entertainment also a contribution to a worthy cause.
Rock’n on the River 2025 Events Schedule
Be sure not to miss the rest of the live music line-up
• Friday, June 20 at 6 p.m.
TCB, a R&B and Motown band, will take the stage at 6 p.m., followed by Women & Children, a Van Halen cover band, at 8 p.m.
https://www.facebook.com/events/3922931511280895
• Friday, June 18 at 6 p.m.
Autumn Tyde, a rock and R&B band, will perform at 6 p.m., followed by hometown favorites Rivermist.
https://www.facebook.com/events/2096752277418877
• Friday, August 15 at 6 p.m.
Country band, Dalton Davis Band, will perform at 6 p.m., followed by the ZZ Top cover band, ZZ Top Notch, at 8 p.m.
https://www.facebook.com/events/1130098475281923
• Friday, September 19 at 6 p.m.
Local Favorite rock band, Fear State, will take the stage at 6 p.m., followed at 8 p.m. by Heart Breaker, a Heart and Led Zeppelin cover band.
https://www.facebook.com/events/471307475654379

Enjoy skateboarding, reggae in Hope Mills, May 31

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Tuesday, 06 May 2025

Written by Lena Simmons

The Friends of Skateparks Foundation has partnered with Port City Reggae Concert and Promotion to present the One People Reggae and Arts Festival at Hope Mills Municipal Park, 5766 Rockfish Road, on May 31. The event starts at 2 p.m. and goes until 11 p.m. The performers are Everton Blender, the Bad Boys of Reggae Inner Circle, Shuga, Edge, Michael, DHIM, Crucial Fiya, RA DEAL, DROPA DON, Determine, and DJ Dimenton . Inner Circle is associated with the theme song of the Bad Boys franchise. Blender music is associated with cultural anthems such as “Lift your head” and “Blend Dem.” The lawn seats are $37. The Front of Stage -Own Bar tickets are $50. The event will feature vendors, beer, wine and food trucks. Ticket information is available at https://www.onepeoplereggaefestival.com/. The proceeds of this concert will support the creation of a state-of-the-art skatepark in Hope Mills.
Sponsors include The Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County, City of Hope Mills, Necknotz, Nature’s Herbal Cabinet, Q98, Healy Wholesale, Tilly, Magic 106.9, Sakara Holistic Center, Rock 103.5, Honest Air, Yellow Crayons, Da Ville Skate Shop, and Endo Stores.
The Friends of Skatepark Foundation was established in 2013 to help communities in the Carolinas develop the best skateparks, with the purpose of having a positive impact on the community. The mission is to promote skateboarding, increase participation, enhance the quality of skateboard parks and educate.
“Quality public skateparks can improve the quality of life of a community by providing alternatives for at-risk youth to focus their energy away from violence, property damage, drug use, and crime,” according to the Friends of Skateparks Foundation.
“Skateboarding and music are two of my biggest passions in life. I started skateboarding in 1978 at the age of seven, when I lived in Hope Mills,” said Terry Grimble, founder of the Friends of Skateparks Foundation and festival organizer. “Skateboarding is not only a sport, but also an art form, lifestyle and culture. Reggae music is a part of the skateboarding culture. I started my first skateboard project in 1989 in Fayetteville. I started producing live music shows to raise money for that project. Bringing a new and exciting reggae to Hope Mills is a dream come true for me. We do not have an ocean to surf, nor a mountain to ride but through skateboard building we can create our own lifestyle inclusive of music.”
Skateboarding has multiple benefits. Skating can provide a stress reliever and a social connection. It’s an affordable hobby and cardio workout. It helps create enhanced coordination, teaches a person how to fall safely and improves patience.
Come support a skatepark in Hope Mills by attending the One People Reggae & Arts Festival in Hope Mills Municipal Park on May 31 from 2 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Fueling Fayetteville's Future at the Free NEXT Gen Business Summit

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Wednesday, 07 May 2025

Written by Amber Little

Fayetteville NEXT Advisory Commission hosts its annual Business Summit on Thursday, May 8 at Fayetteville Technical Community College’s Horace Sisk Gymnasium, 2114 Hull Road, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. This event is the perfect opportunity for area business owners and professionals, entrepreneurs, and business leaders. The summit will focus on “career development, business innovation, and economic opportunities.” Attendees will be able to network, learn from a panel of industry experts, and ask questions to gain new insights on growing and maintaining their own business. Attendees will “gain insights and advice from
industry leaders and entrepreneurs, network with professionals, business owners, and like-minded peers, enjoy a catered networking lunch provided by a Next Gen Summit alum, and discover career and business opportunities in various fields, and learn about emerging business trends and strategies for success.” Event registration starts at 8 a.m., and the event starts promptly at 9:15 a.m.
Business Summit Itinerary
9:15 a.m.- 11 a.m. How Did You Get That Career?
This panel consists of professionals from several different industries. They will discuss how they came to hold their positions, the barriers they faced, and how they excel. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask the panelists questions and gain more insight. Hosted by City Councilman and community leader, Malik Davis, and local business owner Sylvia Glanton.
Featured Panelist:
David Scott – Communications Manager for the City of Fayetteville & Social Media Instructor at
FTCC
Jonelle McLeod – Marketing and communications specialist
Anna Meyer – Executive Director, Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra
Chaka Jordan – Marketing and Communications professional at Cape Fear Valley Health
Gabriel Evans – Manager of Ticket Operations, Fayetteville Woodpeckers
Kendra Hancock – Professor at Fayetteville State University
Dymond Spain – Professor and Attorney at FTCC
11 a.m.- Noon Munch & Mingle
Everyone loves to eat, and this portion of the summit is just for that. Attendees will be treated to a catered lunch by the local food activist and founder of Er’body Eatz, J’Kwan Fulmore.
Noon to 2:30 p.m. Next Gen Entrepreneur and Innovation Panel
This panel will “explore the intersection of entrepreneurship and innovation.” Attendees will hear the stories of successful entrepreneurs, including their strategy, funding, and barriers they’ve faced.
Featured Panelist:
Brad Crawford – National sports journalist with CBS Sports
Denise Woodard – Founder and CEO of Partake Foods, a nationally recognized brand offering
allergy-friendly snacks, and the first Black woman to raise $1 million for a packaged food startup

Grant Bennett – Visionary social impact strategist and community builder at Google, spearheading partnerships and creative production for Google’s LEAD Events & Experiences. Founder of The Two-Six Project, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering marginalized youth in Fayetteville, NC. His work spans collaborations with the NBA, NFL, HBO Max, and Adobe AMPED, earning recognition from Forbes and President Bill Clinton.
Kwame Molden – Founder and CEO of Springbreak Watches, a lifestyle watch brand dedicated to inspiring people to enjoy the present moment
Christina Pacheco – Startup leader specializing in AI-driven solutions for Amazon, helping develop and support innovative AI-driven startups
Candice Kirtz – Director of Supply Chain at PWC, overseeing strategic sourcing and supplier diversity initiatives
Derrick McArthur – Economic and development professional for the City of Fayetteville Fayetteville NEXT Advisory Commission has worked diligently to bring the community this free event. Registration can be done online at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeRQdQsc65Gl1eEmDv3M-hRTZpGp8uYh7ofnIsY9i7DdJ7iYA/viewform.

Swap and Shop: Support local business, reduce waste

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Tuesday, 06 May 2025

Written by Sheila D. Barker

Swap and Shop events are more than just gatherings; they are powerful platforms for fostering community, sustainability, and economic empowerment. By bringing together like-minded individuals, these events facilitate the exchange of goods in a way that reduces waste and promotes a circular economy. Instead of letting unused items clutter space or end up in landfills, they will get a second life.
These events create a sense of community, as participants connect over shared values and interests. The interactions that occur at Swap and Shop events can lead to lasting relationships and a stronger local network. It's an opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations about sustainability, fashion, and the importance of supporting local businesses.
Participating in a Swap and Shop event is simple and rewarding. First, gather clothing or wardrobe items that are no longer worn but still in good condition. These could be clothes, accessories, or even shoes that someone else might find joy in. For the upcoming event hosted by Saucha Living and Room2Tailor, bringing 5 or more items will reduce the entry fee from $30 to $20.
Once the items have been selected, head to the event location—Blissful Alchemists at 414 Ray Ave—on May 10 at 2 p.m. Tickets not only grant access to the event but also include a drink voucher for a delicious, alcohol-free beverage from the Sober Bartender.
Enjoy a day of swapping, shopping, and connecting with other women who share a passion for sustainable living.
Pre-registration is required for this event. To register and purchase tickets, visit https://tinyurl.com/3hyxvc96. Tickets are limited.

Swap Rules
1. No Grumpy-Gretchens or Selfish-Susan’s will be tolerated.
2. Bring a shopping bag & hangers for donation items, as needed.
3. No swapping of items until the Hosts give the announcement.
4. Guests may only have 5 items in hand during the group’s first 15-minute swap.
5. Hosts will announce when Final Swap begins.
At this time, attendees can hoard as much as their bags and hands can hold.
6. Put anything in the “Safe Zone” you don’t want taken. All clothing not on your body or in your shopping bag(s) will be considered fair game!
7. Any disagreements will be decided by a coin toss facilitated by event hosts
8. No messy food/drinks near the clothing.
9. Introduce yourself to someone new and have fun.

Swap & Shop Agenda
2 p.m. to 2:45 p.m.: Welcome- Check in at the table to receive the swap rules, full itinerary, and drink ticket. Guests will have time to stage donated items (self-guided), browse the event, and enjoy mingling with others. Clear signage and a map will guide attendees to where to place their donations. Drink tickets will be good for one mocktail from The Sober Bartender.
2:45 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.: Group Swapping – To ensure a fair and enjoyable experience for all, swapping during this time will be in groups. Groups will be called in order, allowing everyone a fair chance to explore and choose new treasures.
4 p.m. to 5 p.m.: Final Time, Swap Away- Select as many items as your heart desires. Items that are not spoken for will be donated to Fayetteville Urban Ministries.

Embracing Sustainable Fashion
Sustainable fashion is about making mindful choices that consider the environmental and social impacts of our clothing. Participation in a Swap and Shop event means embracing a more sustainable approach to fashion. Swapping clothes extends the life cycle of garments, reducing the need for new production and minimizing waste.
In addition to swapping, consider the materials and manufacturing processes behind the clothes.
Opt for items made from eco-friendly materials or those produced by ethical brands. Contribute to a more sustainable fashion industry and set an example for others to follow by making these choices.

Making an Impact: Supporting HEAL and Fayetteville Urban Ministry
The Swap and Shop event provides an opportunity to support important causes. Proceeds from ticket sales will benefit HEAL, a nonprofit organization dedicated to holistic recovery and wellness. HEAL offers prevention services and support for individuals and families affected by substance use, trauma, mental health challenges and military-related PTSD.
Additionally, any unclaimed swap items will be donated to Fayetteville Urban Ministry, an organization committed to serving the local community through various programs and services. Participation in this event means embracing sustainable fashion and contributing to the well-being of the community. Together, we can make a meaningful impact.