Entertainment

Sustainable Sandhills explores Cape Fear River

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Tuesday, 19 May 2026

Written by Amanda Ransom

As communities across the Sandhills seek meaningful ways to connect with the outdoors, Sustainable Sandhills’ upcoming “Paddle and Picnic” offers a unique experience that blends recreation, education and conservation. Participants are invited to explore the Cape Fear River and learn about its vital role in the region. Led by Executive Director Jonelle Kimbrough, Sustainable Sandhills serves 11 counties across central and southeastern North Carolina, focusing on building resilient environmental, economic and social resources through programs addressing air and water quality, waste management, climate-related public health and conservation.
“To protect our planet is to protect our people,” Kimbrough said.
The idea behind “Paddle and Picnic” began with board member Rodney Medley, a U.S. Army veteran and local beekeeper known as “The Honey Alchemist,” who wanted to combine his passion for paddling with conservation and environmental awareness. What started as a fundraiser has evolved into an immersive experience designed to highlight the importance of protecting natural resources.
Participants will launch from Cape Fear River Adventures in Lillington and paddle six miles upriver toward Raven Rock State Park. Along the way, paddlers can expect scenic views, including a historic bridge, waterfall and unique rock formations, as well as frequent wildlife sightings.
“I’ve seen otters, turtles, blue herons, bald eagles and fox squirrels on that stretch of the river,” Kimbrough said. During the approximately three-hour guided trip, participants will enjoy a light picnic lunch on the water while learning about the river’s ecosystem and conservation efforts.
“We want the event to be interactive,” she added, “so we’ll encourage paddlers to participate in the discussion, point out interesting sights and really immerse themselves in the experience.”
The event is designed to be inclusive, welcoming for both experienced paddlers and beginners. Guides will lead the way, and participants may bring their own boats or rent kayaks on site. Families are encouraged to attend, with children under 12 paddling alongside a parent or guardian.
Beyond its natural beauty, the Cape Fear River holds deep significance for the region.
“The Cape Fear River is truly the lifeline of the Sandhills,” Kimbrough said, noting its role as a primary source of drinking water and a hub for recreation and wildlife.
However, the river faces growing challenges, including chemical contamination and threats to the water supply. Through events like this, Sustainable Sandhills aims to raise awareness and inspire community action. Education remains central to the experience. As participants paddle, they will learn about local ecosystems and environmental concerns, including the impact of “forever chemicals” such as PFAS and 1,4-dioxane on public health.
“We want to immerse residents in the environment that we’re striving to protect and inspire them to protect it too,” Kimbrough said.
Community response to Sustainable Sandhills’ programs has been strong and diverse. Events like “Paddle and Picnic,” Natural History Hikes and Wild Lands Sweeps have drawn “parents with children, soldiers, college students,” and participants from all walks of life. As Kimbrough noted, this diversity “really speaks to the special cultural fabric of our region and demonstrates that nature is truly for everyone.”
Ultimately, the goal is to leave participants with both appreciation and purpose.
“We hope our paddlers will enjoy the immense beauty of the Cape Fear River and gain an appreciation of the unique natural environment of the Sandhills,” Kimbrough said.
The “Paddle and Picnic” event will take place Saturday, May 30 at 11 a.m., with registration open through May 22. For more information or to sign up, visit sustainablesandhills.org/paddle. Tickets are $40 for those bringing their own boat and $90 for those renting one.

Freedom Biker Church Car & Bike Show blends chrome, community, Christ-centered mission

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Tuesday, 19 May 2026

Written by Jamie Bishop

The rumble of engines and the shine of polished chrome will once again fill the air as the Freedom Biker Church Car & Bike Show returns to the area, offering more than a display of horsepower; it’s an invitation to community, connection and faith.
The event is set for May 30 from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Fort Bragg Harley Davidson at 3950 Sycamore Dairy Rd., drawing car enthusiasts, motorcycle riders, and families from across Cumberland County to celebrate a shared passion in an environment rooted in fellowship. Hosted by Freedom Biker Church, the show reflects a mission that extends far beyond the vehicles on display. For organizer T.J. Fisher, the difference is clear from the moment people arrive.
“What makes our Car and Bike Show truly stand out is our focus on sharing Jesus and spreading the good news of the gospel,” Fisher said. “While we’ll have plenty of beautiful cars and motorcycles to enjoy, our heart is centered on something deeper.”
That deeper purpose is woven into every part of the event. Alongside rows of classic cars and custom bikes, attendees will find a prayer tent open to anyone seeking encouragement or support. Information about the church will also be available for those interested in learning more about its outreach.
“Being able to enjoy great vehicles and fellowship together is a blessing, but pointing people to Christ is what it’s all about,” Fisher added.
Freedom Biker Church has built its identity around a simple but intentional mission: to meet people where they are. Often engaging with the biker community and those who may not feel at home in traditional church settings, the church has created a model of ministry that is visible, approachable, and grounded in relationships. According to Fisher, events like the Car & Bike Show are not just an extension of that mission; they are the mission in action.
“This event doesn’t just support the mission of Freedom Biker Church. It is the mission of Freedom Biker Church,” he said. “As our mission statement says, we strive to be visible, involved, available, and a friend in our community, introducing people to Jesus Christ because we want you to belong, to believe, and to become what God wants you to be.”
That philosophy shapes the atmosphere of the event, where conversations happen as naturally as admiration for a well-built engine. It’s a space where longtime riders, curious first-time attendees and families alike can gather without expectation or pressure, just an open invitation to connect.
Past events have drawn a wide mix of participants, from dedicated motorcycle clubs to local car collectors and community members looking for something different. But the organizers emphasize that the real draw isn’t just the vehicles, it's the environment.
“There’s a sense of fellowship here that you don’t always find at other shows,” Fisher said. “People come for the cars and bikes, but they stay for the connection.”
In addition to the main event, Freedom Biker Church extends an open invitation to the community beyond the show itself. The church, located at 455 Rock Hill Road in Vander, hosts weekly gatherings with a casual hangout beginning at 10 a.m. and service at 10:45 a.m., welcoming anyone interested in experiencing the community firsthand.
For Fisher and others involved, the ultimate goal is not measured in attendance numbers or accolades, but in impact.
“It is our hope that everyone who comes out truly enjoys themselves and has a great time taking in the cars, the bikes, and the fellowship that comes with it,” he said. “But more importantly than anything else, our prayer is that every person who attends walks away changed in some way that they leave closer to Jesus than they were when they arrived.”
He continued, emphasizing the event’s lasting purpose. “Whether that’s through a conversation, a moment in the prayer tent, or simply feeling the love of Christ through the people around them, our desire is that seeds are planted and lives are impacted for eternity.”
As anticipation builds, the Freedom Biker Church Car & Bike Show stands as a reminder that community can be built in unexpected places, sometimes between rows of engines and under open skies, where faith and fellowship meet.
“Because at the end of the day,” Fisher said, “it’s not just about the event, it’s about people encountering Jesus.”
For information, visit their Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/events/1296258725782978/

(Photo: Bikers gather at Freedom Biker Church event)

Enjoy a sip, stroll at Cape Fear Botanical Garden

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Tuesday, 19 May 2026

Written by Katie Herring

There is a specific kind of magic that happens in the summer months when the golden hour hits at the Cape Fear Botanical Garden, located at 536 N. Eastern Blvd. As the summer heat begins to mellow, the Garden transforms into a lush, tranquil sanctuary. This season, that experience is getting an upgrade with the Sip n’ Stroll event series, a perfect blend of local craft beverages, live music, and scenic beauty.
The Sip n’ Stroll series is a relaxed celebration of the state’s best liquid craftsmanship. Kicking off the summer on June 4, the Garden welcomes the Fayetteville fan-favorite Dirtbag Ales. Known for their "step away from the status quo" mentality, Dirtbag will be offering a selection of their finest, including their signature brews, Blood Orange Kolsch and Cold Brew Mocha Porter. For those looking for variety and to try something new, they will also have cider and other seasonal selections available to sample.
If wine is more your speed, mark your calendars for July 2 and Aug. 20, when Thistle Meadow Winery takes center stage. Located in Laurel Spring in the western part of the state, the winery has a standing partnership with Cape Fear Botanical Garden. These evenings offer a curated tasting of local wines, allowing you to sample the diverse notes of North Carolina viticulture while wandering through the Garden’s 80 acres of pine forest and ornamental gardens.
While the beverages and the gardens are the major draw, Sip n’ Stroll is designed to be a full sensory experience. Local singer-songwriter Josh Murray will be providing the soundtrack for the evening. A regular at venues like Haymount Truck Stop and Bound and Vine, Murray’s acoustic guitar and soulful vocals provide the ideal backdrop for a garden walk.
In a unique partnership, FTCC massage therapy students will be on-site to offer free chair massages, included with the cost of admission. It is the ultimate way to decompress after a long summer day.
This isn't just an event; it's a gathering. It’s a space to meet fellow craft beer enthusiasts, support local artists, and enjoy the "community vibes" that make Fayetteville special.
The Sip n’ Stroll events take advantage of the Garden’s extended summer hours, with the gates remaining open until 7 p.m. on Thursdays. This extra time allows visitors to explore the scenic, walkable routes at a leisurely pace without the midday sun.
Admission Details:
• Standard Adult Admission: $12.00 + tax.
• Discounts: Available for military members, seniors, and EBT cardholders.
• For more information, check out the website at capefearbg.org
The summer Sip n’ Stroll is just the beginning. The Garden has a robust calendar in the works for the remainder of the year, including garden trivia nights, hand-sewing lessons, and exclusive after-hours tours with expert guides.
Whether you are a dedicated craft beer fan or just looking for a peaceful Thursday evening escape, the Cape Fear Botanical Garden Sip n’ Stroll is the place to be. Grab a friend, soak in the atmosphere, and discover why life is better in the Garden.

Gates Four Summer Concert continues on with tribute band

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Tuesday, 19 May 2026

Written by Katie Herring

As the North Carolina humidity begins to signal the arrival of summer, the community of Fayetteville is preparing for the return of a beloved seasonal tradition. The Gates Four Summer Concert Series is back, promising a season of high-energy performances, family-friendly atmospheres, and a commitment to keeping live music accessible to everyone.
On May 23, the pavilion at Gates Four Golf & Country Club will transform into a destination for fans of Southern Rock as the acclaimed tribute act Gimme Back My Skynyrd takes the stage. The event marks a significant milestone in the local cultural calendar, offering a professional-grade concert experience without the premium ticket price typically associated with national touring acts.
A Mission of Community and Music
The Gates Four Summer Concert Series is more than just a sequence of musical performances; it is a collaborative effort designed to bridge the gap between local businesses and the community. Bill Bowman, a key organizer, emphasizes that the series is a joint venture fueled by the partnership of the Fayetteville Dinner Theatre, Gates Four, and Up & Coming Weekly.
Bowman emphasizes the concert series offers free live music in a relaxed outdoor setting that brings together businesses, families, neighbors and music lovers. The generosity of sponsors allows this series to remain completely free to the public.
The venue itself has become a major draw for attendees who might otherwise be wary of outdoor summer events. Gates Four offers amenities that make it a comfortable and enjoyable destination for an outdoor concert, including ample shade, a picturesque landscape and clean indoor restrooms.
Beyond the Lawn: The VIP Experience
While the core of the event is free, the Fayetteville Dinner Theatre has curated an elevated "dinner and a show" experience for those looking to make a full night of it. This hybrid model allows the event to cater to everyone, from college students on a budget to families celebrating a special occasion.
For those desiring a bit more comfort, reserved seating under the pavilion is available for $20. For a full “dinner and a show” experience, there is the $35 reserved seating package that includes a full meal. These reservations are handled through the Fayetteville Dinner Theatre at 910-391-3859 or online at https://fayettevilledinnertheatre.com/
There will be plenty of food and beverage options to choose from. JP’s Grill will offer indoor dining options for those looking to escape the heat, while local food trucks will be stationed on-site to provide classic concert fare. For the adults, two full-service bars will be in operation: JP’s Bar and the Healy’s Beer and Wine Tent.
Organizers have also ensured the event remains a multi-generational affair. The Main Event Children’s Area provides a dedicated space for younger fans to burn off energy, making it one of the most family-friendly entertainment options in the region.
May 23: A Tribute to the Legends of the South
The spotlight for the May 23 performance falls on Gimme Back My Skynyrd, a band that considers themselves committed fans of the original music. This isn't just another cover band; it is a collective of seasoned professionals who have dedicated their careers to the Lynyrd Skynyrd songbook.
The band's lineup is as diverse as the audience they draw. With members hailing from Wilmington to Nashville and lots of places in between, the group spans generations, with musicians ranging in age from their 20s to their 60s. Despite their different backgrounds and involvement in various other musical projects, they are united by a singular, "special connection" to the music of the Van Zant era.
Kevin Peele, a member of the band, explains that the group’s philosophy is rooted in authenticity.
"When I go see a good tribute, I almost think I’m listening to the band," Peele said. "We want people to say, ‘This is almost Skynyrd.’ We want to stay as true to the band and the way they played the music as possible."
A Setlist for the Die-Hards and the Casuals
Fans attending the May 23 show should prepare for a marathon session. As a special treat for the crowd at Gates Four, the band is preparing a full two-hour set, a rare occasion in the tribute circuit.
Peele promises a setlist that balances the heavy hitters with deep cuts.
"There are so many songs that everybody knows. We’re going to play all the classics, plus ones that people forget Skynyrd played," he noted. "Songs that die-hard Skynyrd fans will definitely know, but others might not be as familiar with."
The band is particularly excited about the venue’s layout. Unlike massive amphitheaters where the performers are separated from the crowd by barricades and security pits, Gates Four offers a more "personal, close-up venue."
"We love people, and we love interacting with people," Peele said, noting that the intimate setting allows the band to feed off the crowd's energy.
The audience is expected to be a mix of local Fayetteville residents and "Skynyrd-heads" who follow the band across the Southeast to support their meticulous recreation of the 1970s Southern
Rock sound.
The Anthem of the South
No Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute would be complete without the song that defined a generation: "Freebird." For Gimme Back My Skynyrd, the song is treated with a level of reverence bordering on the sacred.
"We always end with Freebird," Peele said. "It’s a very tricky song, but it’s one of the top five songs of all time. All of our guys take it very seriously."
For many in the Fayetteville crowd, that final solo will be the highlight of the summer, a soaring tribute to a musical legacy that refuses to fade.
Event Logistics and Information
As the May 23 date approaches, organizers are encouraging attendees to arrive early to secure a prime spot on the lawn. The proverbial doors will open at 5:30 p.m., and the music will begin at 7 p.m. With the combination of free admission, high-quality amenities, and the draw of Gimme Back My Skynyrd, a large turnout is anticipated.
The Gates Four Summer Concert Series continues to prove that music has the power to unify a city. Whether you are there for the nostalgia of the music, the cold drinks at the Healy’s Tent, or a night out with the kids, the event stands as a testament to Fayetteville’s vibrant community spirit.
In a world where the cost of entertainment continues to rise, the Gates Four Summer Concert Series remains a refreshing reminder that the best things in life, like a sunset, a community gathering, and the opening chords of "Sweet Home Alabama," can still be shared for free.