Entertainment

Hit a home run at Segra with nonproft 2 Out Rally

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Tuesday, 17 February 2026

Written by Amanda Ransom

This spring, the crack of the bat and the cheers of the crowd will mean more than just a night of baseball in Fayetteville. 2 Out Rally, a local nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals impacted by illicit fentanyl and mental health challenges, is bringing the community together for an exciting Home Run Derby at Segra Stadium, featuring both a qualification round and a finals event.
The derby is designed to be a fun, family-friendly competition, but organizers say the heart of the event goes far beyond the scoreboard. It is an opportunity to rally around a cause, support the organization’s mission, and celebrate the power of community.
“For readers who may be new to 2 Out Rally, our vision is to honor the life of Alex Bradford by STRIKING OUT illicit fentanyl and RALLYING for mental health awareness. We envision a world where mental health is a priority, and no family has to endure the heartbreak of losing a loved one to fentanyl,” said Jeremy Bradford, Co-Founder and Vice President of Operations.
2 Out Rally was established in memory of Bradford’s son, Alex, who died from fentanyl poisoning in March 2022.
“Alex was a talented athlete who found his greatest joy on the baseball diamond, from tee-ball through his years as a varsity outfielder at Western Harnett High School,” Bradford said.
After high school, Alex pursued a business degree at UNC Wilmington, but his life was tragically cut short during his sophomore year.
The organization’s name reflects perseverance and hope, even in difficult moments.
“2 Out Rally is more than a name; it’s a refusal to quit. It’s the bottom of the ninth, two outs, when everything is on the line and you dig deeper than you thought possible. It’s the moment you choose to fight back,” Bradford explained.
He added that even when life feels darkest, there is still power to rally. Through the Alex Bradford Memorial Scholarship and community education efforts, the foundation works to build awareness and save lives. There are often heavy stigmas surrounding fentanyl and mental health, but Bradford believes sporting environments provide an opportunity to reach people where they feel safe.
“This event helps us meet people where they are comfortable,” he said. “These environments allow us to have candid, meaningful conversations with youth and parents about the real-world dangers they face. By breaking down these stigmas in a community setting, we can turn a tough conversation into a life-saving rally.”
The idea for the Home Run Derby came from a desire to create an event that was exciting, accessible, and meaningful for families across the region.
“The Fayetteville Woodpeckers approached us to host a Home Run Derby as a fundraiser in honor of Alex and our foundation’s work,” Bradford said.
The event is especially fitting because baseball was Alex’s passion.
“Our family spent countless hours in the yard playing home run derby with wiffle balls,” Bradford shared.
Now, this event will allow others to experience the thrill of hitting a home run on a professional diamond while supporting an important mission.
This inaugural year will include two stages: a Qualifying Round on Saturday, Feb. 28, followed by a Grand Finale on March 7. The Qualifying Round features three brackets: 13U (hitting from 2nd base toward a 210ft fence), 17U (hitting from 2nd base toward the 300ft stadium wall), and 18+ (hitting from home plate). Each player has two minutes and one 30-second timeout to hit as many home runs as possible. The top four from each division return on March 7 for the Grand Finale during the Woodpeckers’ Special Olympics softball tournament.
The derby is open to community members who want to participate, volunteer, or cheer on the hitters. Fans attending the qualifiers can also purchase Woodpeckers tickets, visit the gift shop, and even catch a glimpse of Bunker, the mascot. While Fayetteville has no shortage of community events, organizers say this Home Run Derby stands out because it combines high-energy entertainment with meaningful impact.
“What makes this event unique is it offers fans the rare joy of stepping onto a professional field,” Bradford said. “That feeling of hitting a home run, and the pride of a parent pitching to their child, is an experience we want every family to share. Beyond the sport, it provides a platform to bring awareness to the dangers of illicit fentanyl and the intersection of substance use and mental health.”
The event is also a key fundraiser for the foundation. A $25 registration donation goes directly toward supporting outreach efforts, educational programming, and Naloxone distribution. Funds raised help 2 Out Rally travel across North Carolina and the United States to raise awareness about illicit pills and the critical need for mental health support. The organization also provides life-saving Naloxone to community members free of charge. To date, the foundation has distributed nearly 1,200 doses.
“These funds allow us to train community members on opioid crisis response and speak at middle and high schools about fentanyl and mental health,” Bradford explained.
The organization’s annual Alex Bradford Memorial Golf Tournament has already raised more than $30,000, further expanding their ability to educate and serve communities nationwide.
As 2 Out Rally continues to grow, its long-term vision remains focused on expanding its reach and impact. Bradford encourages community members to stay involved beyond attending the derby.
“People can support us by following our social media pages and visiting www.2outrallyfoundation.org to stay updated on our events and learn how to get involved,” he said.
As the qualification round and finals approach, organizers hope Fayetteville will come out not only for the excitement of baseball, but to be part of something bigger.
“These topics—fentanyl and mental health—affect everyone, regardless of background, race, or status,” Bradford said. “Come out for the fun of the game, but stay for the message. Join us as we Rally for Mental Health and Strike Out Illicit Fentanyl.”
With competition, community spirit, and a meaningful mission at the center of it all, 2 Out Rally’s Home Run Derby promises to be a standout event at Segra Stadium, and a reminder of what can happen when Fayetteville shows up for a cause. For more information or to get involved, visit www.2outrallyfoundation.org

(Photo: A member of 2 Out Rally sets up a booth at a Fayetteville Woodpeckers game in 2025. 2 Out Rally is a local non profit dedicated to eradicating fentanyl and helping with mental health issues. The non profit also honors the life of Alex Bradford. Photo courtesy of 2 Out Rally Facebook page)

From Detroit to 910: Celebrating the King of Beats

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Tuesday, 10 February 2026

Written by Amber Little

Last year, Fayetteville experienced the vision of LeJuane “El’Ja” Bowens come to life with the inaugural D’Jilla Weekend, an immersive artistic weekend full of spoken word, music, and the release of El'J Dilla: Poems Inspired by the Music of J Dilla. This book of poetry has an accompanying J’Dilla playlist and a foreword written by the one and only Ma Dukes, the legend's mother.
“Last year, Ma Dukes officially sanctioning the release of El’J Dilla: Poems Inspired by the Music of J Dilla, did more than validate the work—it rooted it in legacy. That blessing shifted everything. It let the community know this wasn’t just a tribute, it was stewardship. Because of that moment, Dilla Day Fayetteville, NC, is coming together with deeper intention, wider trust, and stronger partnerships, along with being the first official Dilla Day event for North Carolina,” said El’Ja.
“Artists, venues, and supporters are showing up knowing this event honors J Dilla’s spirit the right way—with care, creativity, and community at the center. The sanction opened doors, but more importantly, it raised the standard. This year’s event isn’t just inspired by Dilla; it’s aligned with the values Ma Dukes has always protected—authenticity, respect, and love for the culture.”
This year’s event promises to be an expansion and elevation of last year's. Dilla Day: Fayetteville Weekend is a four-day weekend that encompasses the vibe of J’Dilla, captures the spirit of creativity, and celebrates a music legend. Festivities begin on Thursday, Feb. 19, and conclude on Sunday, Feb. 22. Events this year will be a mix of free and ticketed.
J’Dilla weekend 2026 kicks off with T.A.P at Winterbloom Tea at 7 p.m. The Dilla Day Edition will feature award-winning poet and slam coach, Letitia Brown. T.A.P. is an open mic for poets, musicians, vocalists, and any creative with something to say. Sign-ups start at 6:30 p.m. for those who want to take the “stage.” This is a free event.
Friday is the $1000 J’Dilla Poetry Slam at The Sweet Palette, hosted by the incomparable Grammy-winning poet, Steph Love.
Twelve poets will compete in 3 rounds, and only one poet will come out on top. Second, third, and fourth place won’t walk away empty-handed. Cash prizes will be handed out to the top 5 poets of the night. Durham’s hottest DJ, DJ Jimmie V, will be on the ones and twos, keeping the vibe going between rounds and poets in the zone. This is a free event, doors open at 7:30 p.m., and the show starts at 8:00 p.m.
Saturday, the vibe and beats continue with two events. Sample This: Writing and Music Workshop at 11 a.m. starts the day at the Capital Encore Academy located at 126 Hay Street. This is a free workshop for anyone interested in writing or beat-making, featuring Emmy-winning poet Boris “Bluz” Rogers and music producer, Supa Trav. Saturday night is Dilla Day Fayetteville: Dilla Sessions, the highlight of the J’Dilla weekend. Get ready for a night of music at the Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County’s newest addition, Arts XLR, located at 214 Burgess St. On the turntables for the night is DJ Prodigee, keeping J’Dilla classics in the mix.
The night starts with a Beat Battle, as some of the best producers go head-to-head, showing off their skill and mastery of the music catalogue. Rizzy takes the stage for a special performance, followed by Dasan Ahanu and The Eloquent Band, a unique and dynamic blend of live music, poetry, and hip-hop. This is a ticketed event. To purchase tickets visit, https://bit.ly/49YBhq5
Sunday wraps up the weekend with Dilla Brunch at The Sip Room. This brunch will honor the legend, with Ma Dukes as the guest speaker, DJ Yodo in attendance, and a fantastic spread of delicious bites. Brunch will be served from noon to 3 p.m. This is a ticketed event. Tickets can be purchased at https://bit.ly/3ZipT27
El’J had plenty of help making this year’s event happen.
“This year, Dilla Day Fayetteville is powered by the support of 20+ sponsors who believe in honoring culture the right way. We’re especially grateful to Equal Space for Peace, 7 Directions of Service, Poetry-n-Motion LLC, the James Dewitt Yancey Foundation, and the Fayetteville Heckler, whose commitment to community, creativity, and legacy helped make this celebration possible. Their support goes beyond sponsorship—it’s an investment in culture, education, and the future. And they’re just a few of the many partners who stepped up to ensure Dilla Day Fayetteville continues to grow with intention and respect,” he said.
Dilla Day 2026 is a can’t-miss event, from the first event to the last, each one was curated to bring the spirit of J’Dilla to Fayetteville. This is far from the last Dilla Day: Fayetteville Weekend. El’Ja has a vision for the future, noting, "This is a community in motion, and I’m grateful to be part of it. I see Dilla Day Fayetteville becoming a cultural landmark—an annual tradition people plan for and travel to. As it grows, I see expanded programming: workshops, panels, beat showcases, and youth engagement, all rooted in Dilla’s spirit. The goal isn’t just growth, but longevity—building something that remains authentic, community-centered, and intentional. A living legacy that honors the culture with respect, education, and love, while positioning Fayetteville as a place that truly understands how to celebrate hip-hop history,” El’Ja said.
“I also want to acknowledge the artists, DJs, poets, speakers, and vendors who showed up with their whole selves and trusted the vision. And finally, Fayetteville—for showing up, for listening, and for holding space.

(Photo: El'Ja Bowens is hosting Dilla Day Fayetteville, a celebration of J Dilla. Photo courtesy of El'Ja Bowens' Facebook Page)

Learn about wine at Sip Room's Sip and Learn

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Tuesday, 17 February 2026

Written by Lena Simmons

"Accept what life offers you and try to drink from every cup. All wines should be tasted, some should only be sipped but with others, drink the whole bottle."
—Paul Coelho
Sip and Learn Wine 101 is a wine experience led by Santina Thomas, Wine and Spirit Education Trust Level 1 Certified Wine Educator. The event will take place at The Sip Room, 106 Hay St. on Feb. 20, during the hours of 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The event consists of four guided tastings and a charcuterie pairing. The tickets are $48.39 and available on https://www.simplwtix.com/e/sip-learn-101-tickets-251839.
Wine-tasting evolved from an ancient necessity based on quality checks in Mesopotamia and Egypt to a sophisticated sensory-driven practice, according to Wikipedia.
A Level 1 Certified Wine Educator (such as WSET Level 1) requires foundational knowledge of wine styles, basic tasting techniques, and food pairing principles, according do the Napa Valley Wine Academy.
“I am so excited to finally share this moment,” said Thomas. “I am officially launching my first Wine 101 class as a WSET Level 1 Certified Wine Educator. This has been something that I have been working on behind the scenes. I am so proud to bring a wine education experience that’s approachable, fun, informative, no intimidation and no gatekeeping. If you ever wanted to understand wine without being overwhelmed, learn how to taste with confidence, know what you like and why, and enjoy wine in a relaxed social setting. This is just the beginning. I am so grateful to everyone who has been supporting the vision. Let’s sip together and grow together.”
Attending a wine-tasting offers an immersive, educational, and sensory-driven experience that deepens appreciation for viticulture while providing a fun social outing. Attendees can learn about sipping a glass of fine wine and enjoying their evening in a warm, cozy, and intimate location. Wine tasting has the benefits of an immersive experience, learning about wines and food pairings and creating new friends.
Sip a February evening at the Sip and Learn Wine Experience led by Santina Thomas on Feb. 20 at The Sip Room. For more information, visit https://www.thesiproomnc.com/home#block-6634ce08f35cf97a543ef13e

Encountering history: Guided cemetery tour highlights Revolutionary War-Era heroes, events

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Tuesday, 10 February 2026

Written by Anna White

Cross Creek Cemetery #1 is the oldest public cemetery in Fayetteville. Owned by the city of Fayetteville and founded in 1785, its sacred grounds hold the stories of Fayettevillians from days gone by. On Feb. 27, the eve of the 250th Anniversary of the Battle of Moore’s Creek Bridge, a local historian will guide visitors on a tailored tour of the cemetery.
Visitors will hear about the extraordinary lives of Revolutionary war soldiers buried or memorialized there and the ones who waited on the home front. The cemetery’s iconography and architecture provide additional glimpses into the past. One retaining wall that runs along the southern boundary of the cemetery is believed to be the oldest piece of construction still standing in Fayetteville today, according to DistiNCtly Fayetteville.
Fayetteville’s Lafayette Trail, a self-guided tour that commemorates American Revolutionary War hero the Marquis de Lafayette’s two-day Fayetteville visit in March of 1825, includes two stops on the cemetery grounds. Stop 10 highlights the Phoenix Masonic Lodge Number 8, and stop 11 highlights the grave of Isham Blake.
During his two-day tour of Fayetteville, the Marquis de Lafayette visited Phoenix Masonic Lodge Number 8. The Greek Revival structure, built in 1793 and rebuilt in 1858, is one of the oldest lodges in the state still in existence. Isham Blake served as one of General Lafayette’s bodyguards at the Siege of Yorktown in 1781. According to DistiNCtly Fayetteville, “the Siege of Yorktown was an American victory by a combined assault of American and French forces led by General George Washington, Marquis de Lafayette, and French General Comte de Rochambeau, over a British Army commanded by General Lord Cornwallis. This surrender caused the British government to negotiate an end to the War. After the War, Blake became a productive and respected citizen of Fayetteville.”
Other noteworthy figures buried or memorialized on the cemetery grounds include United States Representative J. Bayard Clark, United States Secretary of the Navy James C. Dobbin, Lieutenant Governor of North Carolina and United States Representative Charles Manly Stedman, and Revolutionary War Soldier Isaac Hammond.
Isaac Hammond, who was stationed at Valley Forge along with the Marquis de Lafayette during the winter of 1778, served in the Fayetteville Independent Light Infantry. According to Commemorative Landscapes of North Carolina, Hammond was “a free black barber in Fayetteville, was [the Fayetteville Independent Light Infantry’s] first fifer for over 30 years. During the Revolutionary War, he enlisted in the 10th Regiment of the North Carolina Continental Line.”
Throughout the history of the cemetery, it saw significant vandalism, leading to the installation of an eight-foot wrought iron fence around its perimeter. Additionally, deterioration led to major restoration efforts completed in 2017, at which time the city hired an artisan to reset headstones and repair cracks in monuments.
Now, the cemetery stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of those who occupy its sacred grounds. To learn more, attend Cross Creek Cemetery #1 American Revolutionary Tour. The free tour will be held on Friday, Feb 27, from noon to 1 p.m. Moderate walking is required, and parking is available along N. Cool Spring Street. Learn more at fayettevillenc.gov.

(Photo: The Fayetteville History Museum will be holding a tour at Cross Creek Cemetery #1 on Cool Spring Street. The museum holds tours at the cemetery several times a year. Photo courtesy of the Fayetteville History Museum's Facebook page)