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Cape Beard’s 13th Annual Pig Pickin’ for Autism

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Tuesday, 29 April 2025
Written by Sheila D. Barker

Fayetteville’s own Cape Beard: Follicles of Freedom is more than just a beard and mustache club—it’s a community-driven organization with a passion for making a difference. Since its founding in 2011, Cape Beard has been on a mission to celebrate the art of facial hair while raising awareness and funds for local nonprofits and charitable causes. With over 32 members and 48 events hosted, they have raised an impressive $252,000 for the Fayetteville community. This club is a shining example of how grassroots efforts can create meaningful change.
This year, Cape Beard is proud to announce its 13th Annual Pig Pickin for Autism event, a family-friendly celebration that combines fun, food, and philanthropy. Join the festivities on May 17, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Fort Bragg Harley-Davidson, located at 3950 Sycamore Dairy Road in Fayetteville. Best of all, admission is free!
11The Pig Pickin’ for Autism event is packed with activities for all ages. Attendees will enjoy local vendors. Explore a variety of booths showcasing unique products and services from local businesses. There will also be live music from talented musicians, allowing guests to enjoy performances as they soak in the festive atmosphere.
Have some fun at the dunk tank and, of course, take part in the highlight of the event: getting a BBQ plate. Savor delicious BBQ for only $7, guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds. From games to community engagement, there’s something for everyone at this outdoor event.
Since its inaugural event on May 12, 2012, Pig Pickin' for Autism has raised over $119,000 for autism-related causes. This year, Cape Beard aims to continue that tradition of generosity and community spirit.
Autism has always been a cause near and dear to the members of Cape Beard.
“We're helping families who have special needs children. We also have members who have special needs kids, so we see firsthand what it’s like for the parents,” says Doug Cameron, president of Cape Beard.
“We're helping two deserving charities that utilize the funding to the best of their abilities for autistic children, and not just the administrative costs of the charity. These charities are resources to help families find some relief and programs for their child.”
All proceeds from the event will be donated to two incredible organizations: the Autism Society of North Carolina and The School of Hope.
The Autism Society of North Carolina is an organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. Through support, advocacy, and opportunities, they work tirelessly to create a more inclusive and understanding community.
The School of Hope is focused on providing a holistic and nurturing education. The School of Hope empowers students with autism to achieve a positive and productive future. Their commitment to fostering growth and opportunity makes a lasting impact on students and their families.
Cape Beard’s Pig Pickin’ for Autism is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of community, compassion, and the power of coming together for a cause. Whether you’re a fan of facial hair, a BBQ enthusiast, or simply someone who wants to support a great cause, this event is the perfect way to spend a Saturday.
Gather family and friends, head over to Fort Bragg Harley-Davidson on May 17, and be part of an event that’s changing lives in Fayetteville. Together, we can make a difference for individuals with autism and their families while enjoying a day filled with fun, food, and fellowship.

Fayetteville car show honors late SWAT commander, supports Special Olympics of North Carolina

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Tuesday, 29 April 2025
Written by Jamie Bishop

The Fayetteville Police Department is partnering with the Southland Car Club for the first annual Capt. Shawn Collins Memorial Car Show, set to take place May 10, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Festival Park, 335 Ray Ave. The event serves a dual purpose: honoring the late Capt. Shawn Collins, a respected leader in the Fayetteville Police Department, and raising funds for the Special Olympics of North Carolina. Open to the public, the event invites car enthusiasts, families, and supporters to enjoy classic vehicles for a worthy cause.
Sgt. Alexander Herrera, a nearly 20 year veteran of the Fayetteville Police Department and a member of the Southland Car Club, is at the heart of organizing the show. Herrera’s connection to both law enforcement and the car community has allowed him to bridge the two worlds for a powerful mission.
10“Capt. Collins was our SWAT commander,” Herrera said. “He passed away unexpectedly late last year. He was in great shape, a stand-up guy, the kind of leader who everyone respected. This event is our way of honoring his legacy, supporting his family, and doing something good for the community.”
Herrera stated that Collins’ wife, Stephanie, is also a police officer in Fayetteville.
“They have children together, and his loss hit all of us really hard,” Herrera said. “We wanted to do something meaningful in his name.”
The idea for the car show came during a conversation between officers and city leadership, including former Chief Kemberle Braden. Many within the department share a love for classic cars, including Lt. Brandon Chandler, who oversees the Fayetteville Police Special Olympics Committee. The car show was a natural addition to the department’s lineup of annual fundraisers for the Special Olympics, which already includes a golf tournament, a torch run, and other events.
“The city police department has worked with the Special Olympics of North Carolina for years,” Herrera explained. “It’s a cause that’s close to our hearts. When we discussed hosting a car show, the department saw it as a way to not only continue that support but to also reshape the community’s perception of car clubs.”
According to Herrera, car clubs often face negative stereotypes in the area due to reckless behavior by a few. This event offers an opportunity to showcase what a positive, community-focused car club can do.
“We’re showing that car culture can be about family, giving back, and supporting each other,” he said.
The Southland Car Club, based in Smithfield, typically raises money for scholarships for students in Johnston County. As the club’s only Fayetteville-based member, Herrera is spearheading this new collaboration, combining his personal passions for law enforcement, vintage cars, and public service.
“I just bought an antique car last year and wanted to use it for a good cause,” he said. “Ever since, I’ve seen how much joy these cars bring to people. I take my kids out with me, let them work on it, and we talk to folks in the community. Even if they’re not car people, they light up when they see it. It makes people smile.”
The event is open to the public. Vehicle owners can register their cars for a $20 fee, with all proceeds going directly to the Special Olympics of North Carolina. Numerous local businesses have stepped in to sponsor the show, contributing door prizes and covering event costs to maximize donations.
“The response has been amazing,” said Herrera. “We’ve had everything from sponsorships to trophy donations. One lady on the force had a family member who donated old trophies, and we’re rebranding them for the show. It’s really come together thanks to the generosity of the community.”
Looking ahead, organizers hope to make the Capt. Shawn Collins Memorial Car Show an annual tradition. “This isn’t just a one-time thing,” Herrera said. “We want to build on this every year—raise more money, reach more people, and keep honoring Shawn in a way that makes a difference.”
As Herrera puts it, the message is simple: “We just want people to come out, enjoy the show, and know that their support is going to a great cause, and in memory of someone who meant the world to us.”
The car show promises a day of community, chrome, and compassion—a fitting tribute to a man who gave so much to his city, and a step forward for those still serving it today.
For more information or to register, visit www.southlandcarclub.com. All of the proceeds go to the Special Olympics of North Carolina.

Hope Mills Fit4Life Zumbas for St. Jude

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Tuesday, 22 April 2025
Written by Lena Simmons

The North Carolina 13th Annual St. Jude Zumbathon will take place on May 3, at Fit4Life Health Club-Hope Mills. The event will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Guests can take part in fitness variations, Spin, Kickboxing, Total Body/Strength, Dance, and Zumba.
16The St. Jude Zumbathon will be split up into two events. The second event will take place on June 7 at the John D. Fuller Recreation Center at 6627 Old Bunce Rd.
Tickets for the individual days cost $15. For those who want to participate in both events on May 3 and June 7, advance tickets are $30. Tickets at the door will be $35, and VIP tickets are available for $40.
To purchase tickets for the event, visit https://bit.ly/4cCtyOh
The proceeds for the event will support St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. For more information, contact Fit4Life Hope Mills Health Club-Hope Mills at 910-779-0943.
The events will be lead by Natalie Haskell from Work It With Natalie. In addition to her online training business, Haskell travels around the East Coast to hold Zumbathons to benefit St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. A military spouse and mother of three, Haskell says becoming a group fitness instructor has been a life transformation for her.
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is a world-renowned pediatric cancer treatment and research center in Memphis, Tennessee. The mission of St. Jude Children’s Hospital is to focus on childhood diseases and other life-threatening diseases, comprehensive care — free of charge to patients — ground-breaking research, a global impact and affiliate clinics. The unique operating model provides a normal childhood experience for children undergoing treatment, offering housing facilities for families and a focus on outpatient care.
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital treats patients from all 50 U.S. states and internationally, with around 8,600 patients seen annually. The hospital has helped overall childhood cancer rates from 20 percent in 1962 to over 80 percent today and has achieved a 94 percent survival rate for all.
Fit4Life, located at 2820 Hope Mills Rd., is a state of the art gym facility that is open to members 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Gym memberships come with free group fitness classes, and the gym has a kids' zone for parents to drop off their kids while they work out.
The facility holds daily Zumba and Spin classes, and also offers yoga, dance fit, Pilates and kickboxing throughout the week.

Cumberland County Extension celebrates plants

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Tuesday, 22 April 2025
Written by Sheila D Barker

The Cumberland County Extension Master Gardeners are having their annual Plant Sale on Saturday, May 3, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Crown Arena.
From vibrant flowers and hardy shrubs to delicious vegetables and aromatic herbs, attendees will find a diverse selection of plants that are locally grown and perfectly suited to thrive in gardens.
Each plant has been carefully cultivated by the NC State Extension Master Gardener volunteers, ensuring high-quality plants that will flourish. In addition to live plants, harvested seed packs will also be available.
At the plant sale, guests will have the unique opportunity to meet and interact with the Extension Master Gardeners. These volunteers are passionate about gardening and are eager to share their extensive knowledge. Questions about plant care, pest management, or garden design can all be answered by the Master Gardeners, who will be on hand to provide research-based information and tips.
In addition to the Master Gardeners, experts from the Fayetteville Rose Society, Fayetteville Camellia Club, Sandhills Orchid Society, and the Sandhills Daylily Club will be present. They will share their specialized expertise, helping gardeners make informed decisions about the best plants for their garden and how to care for them effectively.
17The Cumberland County Plant Sale isn't just about buying plants—it's also a fantastic learning opportunity. The event will feature a variety of educational displays designed to enhance gardening knowledge. Learn how to attract essential pollinators, the benefits of composting, and the basics of growing vegetables.
Information on container gardening will also be available. These little garden spaces are perfect for those with limited space or who want to add greenery to patios and balconies. The displays are a great way to gain valuable insights and practical tips to apply to gardening endeavors.
By attending the Cumberland County Plant Sale, guests are not just enriching their garden—they’re also supporting a range of local horticulture programs. All proceeds from the event will go towards funding Horticulture Scholarships, the Cape Fear Botanical Garden, Extension Master Gardener Demonstration Garden, Extension Master Gardener education programs, Warrior Transition Tranquility Garden, and the Second Harvest Food Bank Garden.
Participation helps these programs continue their important work, fostering a love of gardening and sustainable practices within the community. It's a wonderful way to give back while enjoying the benefits of a well-curated selection of plants and expert advice.
The Cumberland County Plant Sale is a must-attend event for anyone interested in gardening. With a variety of plants, knowledgeable experts, and educational displays, it promises to be a day filled with inspiration and practical knowledge.

Cooking for a Cause: Dogwood’s Wing Cook-Off

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Tuesday, 22 April 2025
Written by Sheila D. Barker

The Heart Behind the Heat: Carl Pringle’s Mission
Carl Pringle, known fondly as ‘Uncle Carl’ in the Fayetteville community, is the driving force behind the ‘Cooking for a Cause: Wing Cook-Off’. Carl is the creator of the famed Flip Flop BBQ Sauce, a unique sauce inspired by Washington D.C.’s Mumbo Sauce. His improvisation led to a flavor so versatile that he joked you could put it on a flip-flop and still enjoy it.
Beyond his culinary skills, Carl is deeply committed to his community. Ten percent of all Flip Flop Sauce sales go to fund ‘Uncle Carl’s Safe Space,’ his community outreach organization. He is also known for organizing events like the R&B (Ribs and Butts) Fest and actively participating in community feedings. Carl’s mission is to use food as a means to bring people together and support those in need, particularly Fayetteville’s unhoused population.
10aEvent Details: What, When, and Where
The ‘Cooking for a Cause: Wing Cook-Off’ is a new and exciting event at the Fayetteville Dogwood Festival 2025. Scheduled for Saturday, April 26, this event will take place in Festival Park in downtown Fayetteville. Sponsored by Sam’s Club and hosted by Carl Pringle, the cook-off aims to bring the community together over a shared love of delicious wings, all while supporting a worthy cause.
Local chefs and grill masters will compete to create the best wings, with proceeds supporting Pringle’s outreach initiatives and benefiting other local charities. It’s a day dedicated to great food, fun competition, and community support.
The ‘Cooking for a Cause: Wing Cook-Off’ will feature some of the best local chefs and grill masters, each bringing their unique flavors and techniques to the competition. These culinary experts will showcase their skills, vying for the title of the best wings in Fayetteville.
Participants can expect a range of wing styles, from classic buffalo to innovative new flavors, all prepared with the passion and expertise that make Fayetteville’s food scene so special. It’s a chance to see these chefs in action and taste their incredible creations.
At its core, the ‘Cooking for a Cause: Wing Cook-Off’ is about more than just great food – it’s about making a difference. Part of the proceeds will support two incredible non-profits: Marius Maximus Foundation for Mental Health and We Are One Big Family both dedicated to uplifting the Fayetteville community.
We Are One Big Family is a charitable organization dedicated to guiding young people, providing meals to the homeless, and ensuring that anyone in need receives a warm meal. The Marius Maximus Foundation aims to inform and guide the community, fostering a deeper awareness of mental health.
By attending and participating in the cook-off, you are directly contributing to these efforts, helping to ensure that everyone in the community has access to nutritious meals and a sense of belonging.

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