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Tuesday, 17 June 2025
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Written by Jamie Bishop
A beloved community tradition returns to the green this summer as The Care Clinic hosts its 29th Annual Golf Charity Tournament on Friday, June 27. After a three-year hiatus, the tournament will be held at Gates Four Country Club, located at 6775 Irongate Drive in Fayetteville, and will begin with a 9:30 a.m. shotgun start.
The event brings together community members, sponsors, and supporters for a day of fun and philanthropy — all in service of a vital mission. Proceeds from the tournament directly benefit The Care Clinic, a nonprofit healthcare provider offering free medical and dental care to uninsured adults in Cumberland County and six surrounding counties. With no government funding, the clinic relies on fundraisers like this tournament, along with donations and grants, to continue serving some of the region’s most vulnerable populations.
Nicole Ryan, the event organizer and development director at The Care Clinic, shared how critical the tournament is to the clinic’s sustainability and community impact.
“We hold medical clinics every Tuesday and Thursday evening, as well as the second and fourth Wednesday of each month,” she said. “Our dental clinics follow a similar schedule, and we also run diabetic clinics and lab services. Sponsorships from the golf tournament directly support all of these programs. The funds help cover the cost of medical treatments, medications, diagnostic tests, basic dental extractions, and pharmacy services.”
This year’s event will mark the first tournament held since 2022, making it a special comeback for longtime supporters and an exciting new opportunity for first-time participants and sponsors. The Care Clinic has always enjoyed strong backing from the community, and Ryan has seen both familiar and fresh faces step forward this year.
“While many of our 2025 sponsors have supported us in previous years, we’ve also seen new sponsors across all levels,” she explained. “It’s been incredibly encouraging to see how Fayetteville continues to show up. The people here are generous, compassionate, and driven by a shared desire to uplift others.”
This year’s tournament will feature all the classic elements that make charity golf outings popular: a captain’s choice/scramble format, mulligans, red tees, and contests like “Closest to the Pin” and “Longest Drive.” New for 2025, however, is an exciting Hole-in-One Contest, offering players the chance to win a $10,000 prize — along with a $1,000 FootJoy gift card, $750 Srixon gift card, and $500 in pro shop winnings.
Gates Four Country Club, known for its beautifully maintained course and top-tier amenities, provides an ideal setting for players of all experience levels. Seasoned golfers and newcomers alike can enjoy the game with the team format, meaning everyone can contribute to a greater cause.
“It’s $75 per player, which includes a breakfast sandwich, lunch, and beverages,” Ryan said. “It’s an affordable way to spend the day giving back, and there are perks for everyone involved. Sponsors also gain recognition in the lead-up to the event and the day of, with the added benefit of having player spots on the course depending on the sponsorship level.”
With sponsorship opportunities still available, local businesses and individuals are encouraged to get involved. Packages offer various levels of visibility and engagement, from hole sponsorships to title-level recognition. All sponsors are acknowledged through signage, event materials, and public recognition — but more importantly, they help ensure that The Care Clinic can continue to meet the rising healthcare needs in the area.
The clinic's all-volunteer clinical staff, many of whom come from Cape Fear Valley Health and Womack Army Medical Center, provide vital services year-round. Their efforts allow The Care Clinic to operate free of charge, giving patients access to medical and dental care they otherwise couldn’t afford.
“We don’t receive any government funding,” Ryan emphasized. “Everything we provide is made possible by donations, grants, and fundraising events like this. It’s a true grassroots effort supported by local heroes.”
The community response since announcing the return of the tournament has been overwhelmingly positive. As Ryan noted, stepping into her role just a few months before the event could have been daunting. But Fayetteville’s warm and welcoming spirit — combined with her own expanding network — helped ensure that the tournament would not only happen but thrive.
“Fayetteville has many kind, generous members of nonprofits and businesses who make the conscious decision to give back,” she said. “This tournament is just one example of that collective generosity in action.”
Participants can register online by visiting onecau.se/golf-2025, and those interested in sponsorship can contact the clinic at 910-485-0555 or email development@thecareclinic.org for more details. Those playing for the first time or returning can support a tradition that’s helped countless individuals receive quality healthcare. The Care Clinic’s 29th Annual Golf Charity Tournament offers a unique opportunity to make a real difference.
For Ryan, the tournament is not just about golf or even fundraising — it’s about community.
“If you’ve never participated before, this is the perfect year to start,” she said. “You’re going to have a great time, meet incredible people, and support a mission that matters. It’s truly a win-win.”
With its return to the community calendar, the tournament stands as a beacon of hope and resilience. It reflects the strength of a network that refuses to let gaps in healthcare access define their neighbors’ futures. Instead, through events like this, the people of Fayetteville continue to prove that a day on the golf course can lead to a lifetime of change.
As the tournament date draws near, The Care Clinic encourages residents, businesses, and golf lovers to sign up, sponsor, or donate — because healing a community starts with one compassionate step, one generous swing, and one unified goal: care for all.
For more information, visit https://onecau.se/golf-2025 or contact the clinic directly. Sponsorships are still available, and player spots are open — but space is limited, so early registration is encouraged.
(Photo: Teams compete in the Care Clinic's golf tournament. Photo courtesy of the Care Clinic)
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Tuesday, 17 June 2025
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Written by Sheila D. Barker
2025 Hope Mills Independence Day Kickoff
Hope Mills is gearing up for a grand celebration as it hosts the Independence Day Kickoff event at the Hope Mills Municipal Park. The event promises a family-friendly atmosphere filled with fun, excitement, and patriotic spirit. Scheduled for Saturday, June 28, from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., this celebration is the perfect way to start your Independence Day festivities.
Attendees can expect an evening packed with enjoyable activities, live entertainment, and delicious food. Residents of Hope Mills and visitors from out of town can experience what this event offers: a fantastic opportunity to gather with friends and family to celebrate our nation's independence.
Music lovers are in for a treat with live performances by Whiskey Pines and Dalton Davis. Whiskey Pines, an Americana/country/rock acoustic act from Southern Pines, NC, will kick off the evening with their soulful tunes. Following them, Dalton Davis, a talented singer/songwriter from Mamers, NC, will take the stage to keep the festive mood alive.
These live performances are sure to create a lively and enjoyable atmosphere, enhancing the overall experience of the Independence Day Kickoff celebration.
Food enthusiasts will have plenty to look forward to with more than 15 food trucks offering a variety of delicious options. From savory bites to sweet treats, there's something to satisfy every palate.
Food trucks in attendance will be xQuisito, International Foods & Catering, Kona Ice, Vicious Pig BBQ, Harmon’s Deutsche Küche, Wild Sunflower Pizza & More, Festival Desserts Ice Cream, Fried Haven, Carolina Fish Fry Co, Shae's Confections, The Candi Queen, LATIN FLAVOURS STREET CUISINE, Rolling Tacos Pupusas, C&S Ice, Jaz-N-Soul, and Tropical Sno- Fayetteville.
In addition to the food trucks, there will be a variety of vendors in attendance, offering a range of products and services. Vendors that are expected to be there so far are Wee Folks Gardens, Fulfillity Books & More, Doughlicious Cookies & Sweets, Sweet Carolina Delights, The Honest Sourdough Co., The Bear Cave, Kia Love Studios, Fairy Hair by Maddy, and the Hope Mills Homeless Advisory Committee.
To get a description of what each vendor sells, as well as an update on any added vendors, visit https://tinyurl.com/39dcj5d8.
The Independence Day Kickoff event is designed to be a fun-filled experience for the entire family. Kids can enjoy activities like face painting, a petting zoo, and a fun slide. There's never a dull moment.
These activities provide the perfect opportunity for children to engage in creative and interactive play, making the event enjoyable for attendees of all ages.
The highlight of the evening will undoubtedly be the spectacular fireworks show, set to begin at 9 p.m. This dazzling display of lights and colors will light up the night sky, providing a memorable conclusion to the Independence Day Kickoff event. In the event of a cancellation due to weather, the fireworks will be rescheduled to June 29 at 9 p.m.
Make sure to find a good spot to watch the fireworks and enjoy this breathtaking finale with your loved ones. It's the perfect way to cap off an evening of celebration and fun.
Independence Day Luncheon Cookout
Mark your calendars for a special celebration that honors both our nation's independence and the cherished bonds of family. The Hope Mills Parks & Recreation Department and the Recreation Advisory Board are excited to present the Senior Independence Day Luncheon Cookout.
This unique event invites seniors to bring their children and grandchildren, fostering an atmosphere of connection and joy. Taking place on July 2 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Municipal Park located at 5766 Rockfish Road, Hope Mills, this cookout promises to be a heartwarming celebration of freedom and togetherness.
Senior residents are treasured members of the community, and this event is designed to acknowledge their contributions while providing an opportunity to create new memories with loved ones.
The Senior Independence Day Luncheon Cookout is more than just a meal; it's a day packed with activities that will bring smiles to the faces of all ages. From lawn games that spark friendly competition to music that gets everyone up and dancing, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
The event will feature a range of classic games that are sure to evoke nostalgia and joy. Whether guests are playing horseshoes, tossing a frisbee, or engaging in a round of corn hole, the emphasis is on fun and community. Picnic tables will be available for those who prefer to sit back, relax, and enjoy the festivities.
No cookout is complete without mouth-watering food, and the Senior Independence Day Luncheon Cookout will not disappoint. The Parks & Recreation Staff and volunteers will be grilling up a storm, offering a delectable selection of bar-b-que favorites including hot dogs, hamburgers, and chicken. These classic cookout staples are sure to satisfy your taste buds and fuel your fun.
Complementing the main dishes are sides catered by Southern Experience, ensuring a well-rounded and delicious meal. Whether you're a fan of traditional coleslaw, baked beans, or something a little more unique, the catered sides will add an extra layer of flavor to your holiday feast.
Music is a universal language that brings people together, and the event's DJ will be spinning a delightful mix of oldies and modern hits to keep the energy high. The music will be a highlight of the day, both for those who want to dance and for those who prefer to sit back and listen.
For those who love to dance, the Community Room in the recreation center will be open for line dancing sessions. These sessions are a fantastic way to get moving, have fun, and share some laughs with friends and family. Don't miss the chance to show off your moves or learn some new ones!
Tickets for this event are $15 for residents who are 55+ and $20 for non-residents 55+. For seniors wishing to invite their grandchildren, family, or friends, there is a $25 fee for a family of up to four members for residents and $30 for non-residents. If more than four members register, a $10 fee will be added. Register and purchase tickets here: https://tinyurl.com/43fh345d.
The heart of the Senior Independence Day Luncheon Cookout is the opportunity to connect with others and celebrate the sense of community that makes Hope Mills special. This event is a wonderful chance for seniors to spend quality time with their grandchildren, other family members, and friends in a fun and relaxed setting.
In today's fast-paced world, taking the time to come together and celebrate shared values is more important than ever. The cookout is designed to bridge generational gaps, foster new friendships, and strengthen the bonds that hold our community together. Gather loved ones and join for a day that promises to be filled with laughter, love, and lasting memories.
2025 Hope Mills Independence Day Parade
Hope Mills concludes their Independence Day celebrations with a grand parade on Friday, July 4 at 10 a.m. The parade will kick off at Rockfish Elementary School, located at 5763 Rockfish Rd., Hope Mills, and conclude at Hope Mills Middle School at 4975 Cameron Road, Hope Mills. The route will take participants and spectators through Rockfish Rd., turning right onto N. Main St., and then left onto Cameron Rd. before finally arriving at Hope Mills Middle School.
Make sure to arrive early to secure a good spot along the route. This year’s parade boasts an exciting lineup of participants that represent the vibrant Hope Mills community. Leading the parade will be Stanley Steemers, the event's main sponsor.
Other notable participants include VFW Post 10630, Carolina Assault Softball, Hope Mills Chamber of Commerce, Eggs Up Grill, and Team River Runner. These groups, along with many more, will bring their unique flair to the parade, making it a delightful experience for all attendees.
Registration is open until June 20 for those interested in joining the parade. For more information, visit https://www.townofhopemills.com/349/Independence-Day-Celebration
To fully enjoy the Hope Mills Fourth of July parade, plan to arrive early and bring essentials like sunscreen, water, and comfortable seating. Scope out the best viewing spots along Rockfish Rd., N. Main St., and Cameron Rd. to ensure a great view of the parade.
Engage with the participants, take plenty of photos, and soak in the community spirit. Don’t forget to check out the post-parade activities and explore what Hope Mills has to offer. This is a day to celebrate freedom, community, and the joy of coming together.