Entertainment

Fayetteville Woodpeckers enter second half of season

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Tuesday, 21 July 2026

Written by Amanda Ransom

While summer in Fayetteville brings backyard barbecues, festivals and outdoor concerts, it also means another exciting season of baseball at Segra Stadium. As the second half of the season gets underway, the Fayetteville Woodpeckers are finding their stride on the field while continuing to provide entertainment. Although the season began with a 2-10 record, the Woodpeckers have rallied in recent weeks and are once again competing near the top of the standings. 

"We got off to a slow start," said Andrew Chapman of the Fayetteville Woodpeckers. "We turned the record around with a strong June. We didn't win the first half, but in our league the records reset at the midway point of the season, and we're currently in first place in the North Division during the second half."

The turnaround has not only put the Woodpeckers back in the playoff race, but it has also showcased the organization's commitment to developing the next generation of Major League talent. Fans visiting Segra Stadium this summer have the chance to watch some of the Astros' top prospects before they climb the minor league ladder.

"Kevin Alvarez is the No. 1 prospect in the Astros farm system," Chapman said. "At just 18 years old, he combines contact hitting, speed on the bases and outstanding defensive instincts in the outfield." 

Chapman also pointed to 19-year-old Xavier Neyens, Houston's 2025 first-round draft pick. 

"He has big league-caliber power and a great eye at the plate," Chapman said. "He's currently leading the Carolina League in walks."

Player development remains the club's top priority. At the Single-A level, coaches focus on building routines that prepare athletes for long-term success. 

"It's all about reps and settling into professional baseball," Chapman said. "Our coaches emphasize strength training, nutrition and constant work in the batting cages and bullpen to put players in the best position to succeed." 

The hard work has already produced results. Pitcher Javier Perez threw eight shutout innings in May, the longest outing by a Woodpeckers pitcher in franchise history, earning Carolina League Pitcher of the Week honors. Alvarez and Waner Luciano have also been recognized as Carolina League Players of the Week.

While fans celebrate player success, promotions within the Astros organization can be bittersweet. 

"Our fans get very invested in our players," Chapman said. "They're excited to see them continue chasing the dream of reaching the major leagues, but they also miss seeing some of their favorite players here in Fayetteville."

While baseball draws fans to Segra Stadium, the entertainment extends well beyond the game itself. 

"Beyond high-level baseball on the field every night, each game has something unique for fans to experience," Chapman said. 

Weekly promotions include Thursday drink specials, Friday fireworks, Saturday giveaways and Sunday's opportunity for children to run the bases and play catch on the field. Special events later this summer include Moana at the Ballpark on July 31 and Hockey Night on Aug. 15, featuring a Carolina Hurricanes-inspired replica jersey giveaway.

General Manager Michelle Skinner says the team's connection with the community remains one of its greatest strengths. 

"The Fayetteville community has continued to support the Woodpeckers throughout the rainy days and high temperatures," Skinner said. "We've remained encouraged by the loyal fans, local businesses and community organizations that continue to attend games and partner with us."

The organization also hopes Segra Stadium serves as more than a baseball venue. 

"We want Segra Stadium to be the central hub for entertainment in Fayetteville," Chapman said. "Not just for baseball, but also charity events, holiday parties, watch parties and business networking." 

With 21 home games remaining through the end of August before the regular season concludes on Sept. 6, there is still plenty of baseball left to enjoy. 

"If you haven't made it out to Segra Stadium yet this season, there's still time," Skinner said. "Invite your neighbors, co-workers and friends and come check out a game."

For tickets, visit https://bit.ly/4f0QQQD

Cornelius Harnett Rural North Carolina Ball celebrates America's 250th Anniversary

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Tuesday, 21 July 2026

Written by Sheila D. Barker

Mark your calendars for an extraordinary evening that brings history to life. On Saturday, July 25, Harnett County is hosting the Cornelius Harnett Rural North Carolina America 250 Ball, a spectacular 18th-century costume ball celebrating America's 250th anniversary. This isn't just another community event; it's a chance to immerse yourself in the Revolutionary era and honor the legacy of one of North Carolina's most influential founding fathers. 

The Harnett County America 250 Committee has been working tirelessly to create an experience that bridges the gap between our storied past and vibrant future. Taking place at the Harnett County Resource Center and Library in Lillington, from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., this costume ball marks the beginning of a series of commemorative events that will explore the Revolutionary War's impact on our region and celebrate the contributions that shaped both our county and our nation. 

This semiquincentennial celebration is part of a statewide initiative, but Harnett County's event promises to be uniquely memorable. 

“The Cornelius Harnett Rural North Carolina America 250 Ball will empower the community with fellowship and high engagement in costume storytelling. Our costume ball will help us ensure the America 250 celebration is both insightful and historically significant,” said Jheri Hardaway, Community Engagement Committee Chair and volunteer for the Harnett County America 250 Committee.

Prepare for an evening filled with authentic Revolutionary-era entertainment, education, and community connection. This isn't your typical formal event.  This is a fully immersive historical experience designed to transport you back to the pivotal moments when America was forging its independence. The ball will feature period-appropriate reenactments that bring the Revolutionary War era to life, allowing attendees to witness history firsthand. 

The entertainment lineup includes live music inspired by colonial traditions, creating an authentic atmosphere that honors the cultural heritage of the 18th century. You'll enjoy carefully curated food offerings that reflect the culinary traditions of the era and engage in storytelling sessions that highlight the significant contributions of Cornelius Harnett and other local patriots who helped shape our nation's founding. 

The event is designed to be both educational and entertaining, making it perfect for history enthusiasts, families, and anyone interested in celebrating America's heritage. This is your opportunity to learn about Cornelius Harnett, often called the 'Samuel Adams of North Carolina', who was a leading figure in the resistance against British rule. He chaired the state's Revolutionary Council of Safety and helped draft North Carolina's first constitution. His legacy and the county's unique role in shaping early America will be celebrated throughout the evening. 

One of the most exciting aspects of the Cornelius Harnett Ball is the opportunity to dress in formal 18th-century attire. Guests are strongly encouraged to embrace the theme by wearing period-appropriate dresses and suits that reflect the Revolutionary era's elegant fashion. This is your chance to step into the shoes of colonial patriots and experience what it was like to attend a formal gathering during America's founding years. 

Tickets for the Cornelius Harnett Rural North Carolina America 250 Ball are available now for $20 per person. You can secure your spot by purchasing tickets through Eventbrite at https://tinyurl.com/yd4jm3m2.

The Harnett County Resource Center and Library, located at 455 McKinney Parkway in Lillington, NC, provides an ideal venue for this special occasion. The facility offers ample space for dancing, dining, and enjoying the various entertainment offerings while maintaining an intimate community atmosphere. Parking is available on-site, making it convenient for attendees. 

Don't miss this opportunity to kick off America's 250th anniversary celebration in style. The Harnett County America 250 Committee encourages all residents and community members to join in this inaugural event and stay tuned for additional celebrations and commemorative activities planned throughout the anniversary period. As Hardaway emphasizes, “We are thrilled to make Harnett County's impact on America 250 Celebrations impactful and memorable.”

Gather your friends and family, dust off your colonial attire, and get ready to celebrate the history, heritage, and community spirit that make North Carolina special.

Teens tap into their creativity with sewing camps from The Sewing Fix

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Tuesday, 21 July 2026

Written by Mahalia Cooks

Keeping the youth engaged and actively learning new skills is crucial to avoiding the common loss of knowledge and skills known as “summer slide.” Raeford business The Sewing Fix is doing its part to instill new skills and nurture confidence and creativity with its Teen Summer Sewing Series for learners aged 12 to 17.

“I believe sewing uses so many skills that cross over with their school classes,” said Cristy Hunter Myers, the owner, lead technician and teacher at The Sewing Fix. 

Examples of these skills include science, reading comprehension and math. 

“Many homeschool families have approached me to offer more classes or camps during the school year because their children have loved the sewing camps so much. Sewing utilizes every aspect of what they’re doing in school,” she said.

For Myers, starting a sewing machine repair business was a logical next step after the COVID-19 pandemic shuttered many repair shops — especially those servicing the local area. Many sewists began crafting masks to serve the public, but they often didn’t know how to service their machines, and remaining repair shops had up to six-month waitlists.

With education from the Sewing Doc Academy, she ran her business out of her vehicle until acquiring a brick-and-mortar building in January 2026, enabling her to hold camps and classes — bolstered by her experience in running a licensed daycare for 30 years and a degree in Early Childhood Education.

The Teen Summer Sewing Series kicked off in June; the last camp will run Aug. 4-7. Camps are held at The Sewing Fix at 109 Cumberland Ave. from 12:45 p.m. to 4:15 p.m., with snacks and drinks provided. Tickets for the 4-day camp cost $150, which includes all supplies, and students receive a take-home workbook for future projects. See what activities are held each day at https://www.facebook.com/events/1523467902647913/. 

Camps have been selling out fast. Myers says parents are eager to get their kids involved in a pastime that prevents boredom and keeps youth out of trouble, especially those living in rural areas with fewer options for fun. 

“Children tend to pick up on things pretty quickly, so it’s a perfect time for them to start learning new skills. It allows them to be creative, make their own clothing, repair their favorite clothing and possibly allow them to make more spending money than working fast food by selling the items they make,” said Myers. “My goal for everyone — children and adults — is to leave class feeling like they can do anything they practice and put their mind to.”

If you’re unable to register for the Teen Summer Sewing Series due to high demand, Myers reassures that learning opportunities abound. One is Bobbin Buddies, a preteen/teen club beginning in July and continuing throughout the school year. It costs $40/month for weekly meetings; during the summer, students will meet on Mondays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Learn about membership at https://thesewingfix.com/bobbinbuddies. 

Online classes are available for all ages who want to learn about sewing and prefer a remote experience. Explore the full range offered at https://thesewingfix.com/#classes. 

For next summer, Myers plans to hold more camps each month to accommodate high interest. She also anticipates adding camps during other school breaks. More camps mean more moments of connection and joy among young learners. 

“When they pop back into that young child where the smile just takes over them because they’re so excited and so happy that they’ve created something, that is by far my favorite part,” said Myers.

Get information on sewing machine repairs and sewing lessons at http://www.thesewingfix.com/. You can also send inquiries to TheSewingFix@iCloud.com or call 910-302-7178.  

Beat the heat with ultimate summer concert at Gates Four

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Tuesday, 21 July 2026

Written by Katie Herring

If you have been searching for the perfect way to shake off the July humidity, escape the confines of your air conditioned living room, and dance the night away under the stars, look no further. 

The highly anticipated Gates Four Summer Concert Series is returning this month to deliver exactly what the community needs. This premier seasonal event is bringing a massive hometown favorite back to the local stage to keep the summer vibes rolling, proving that there is absolutely no better place to be on a warm weekend evening than surrounded by great neighbors and incredible tunes.

Headlining the July showcase is none other than Rivermist, Fayetteville’s very own premier live entertainment powerhouse. Formed right here in Fayetteville back in 2014, Rivermist has spent more than a decade evolving from a passionate group of local musicians into one of the entire Southeast’s most respected and recognized live acts. 

If you have not yet experienced the phenomenon known across the Carolinas as a #RivermistParty, you are missing out on an extraordinarily high-energy musical journey. The band delivers an electrifying, genre-spanning mix of classic rock, rhythm and blues, modern pop, general variety, and timeless party favorites. Their diverse repertoire is specifically designed to capture the crowd's attention from the very first chord and hold it tightly until the final encore fades away.

This is far from your average local cover band. Rivermist is comprised of five exceptionally accomplished artists who boast a mind-boggling collective total of more than two hundred years of professional performing experience. The band's iconic sound is anchored by the formidable rhythm section of Greg Adair on drums and vocals alongside Tony Harrison on bass guitar and vocals. Together, they lock down a groove that is impossible not to move to. 

Adding layers of rich sound are Rick Starling on percussion, keys, and vocals, and Cliff Bender, who commands the lead guitar while adding his own vocal talents to the mix. 

Fronting this powerhouse lineup is Allen Pier, whose exceptional lead vocals and masterful keyboard playing serve as the focal point for the band's dynamic stage presence.

Because nearly every member contributes to the vocals, Rivermist is able to execute complex, powerful lead lines and jaw-dropping harmonies that few live bands can replicate. Their relentless dedication to delivering unforgettable performances night after night has also earned them the prestigious distinction of being voted Up & Coming Weekly's Best Local Band for eleven years. .

Rivermist is famous for their legendary live resume. They have commanded major festival stages, corporate events, historic theaters, high-energy clubs and intimate community celebrations all across the Carolinas. Among their most notable live milestones is a thrilling performance opening for pop-rock legend Rick Springfield at the Crown Theatre.  Every time they step into the spotlight, their mission remains exactly the same: deliver an unforgettable experience through infectious energy, genuine audience interaction, and a deep passion for entertainment. As the band likes to remind their fans: “Ain’t no party like a Rivermist Party… because a Rivermist party don’t stop.”

Mark your calendars, round up your friends, and clear your schedule for Saturday, July 25, because the Pavilion at Gates Four Country Club is officially turning into the ultimate weekend hotspot. The Pavilion offers a truly beautiful, safe, and incredibly spacious outdoor setting that is perfectly tailored for a magnificent summer evening. Perhaps the most incredible aspect of this entire event is that general admission is totally free to all residents of Fayetteville, Fort Bragg, and Cumberland County. 

The organizers wanted to ensure that this is a true community-wide celebration, meaning all you need to do is grab your favorite lawn chairs, gather your friends, family, children, and even your well-behaved pets for a gorgeous night of music under the open sky.

The event is structured to offer a smooth, stress-free, and highly enjoyable evening for attendees of all ages. The gates and doors will swing open at 5:30 p.m., giving you plenty of time to arrive early, secure the absolute best view of the stage, and mingle with fellow concertgoers. The musical entertainment officially kicks off at 7 p.m., allowing the band to play as the sun goes down and the evening air begins to cool.

To elevate the festival atmosphere, a variety of fantastic local food trucks will be parked on-site, offering a diverse array of delicious culinary treats to satisfy any craving. For those looking to enjoy a refreshing beverage, the venue features two full-service bars. 

Understanding that a July evening can occasionally become a bit too warm, Gates Four is also offering indoor dining spaces and fully air-conditioned indoor restrooms so you can beat the heat whenever you need a quick break. To add an extra element of excitement to the night, door prizes will be given away to lucky attendees throughout the evening.

While general admission is completely free, those looking to upgrade their night out can take advantage of premium ticketing options. If you want a guaranteed, stress-free spot close to the action, you can opt for Reserved Seating for just $20. For the ultimate concert experience, you can purchase Reserved Seating accompanied by a delicious, professionally prepared meal for only $35, allowing you to dinner-and-dance the night away without a care in the world.  Tickets for Reserved Seating, with or without a meal, can be purchased at fayettevilledinnertheatre.com 

World-class live music, food, drinks, and a vibrant community atmosphere come together to make this the undisputed highlight of the season. Come out and see for yourself exactly why Rivermist has reigned as the region's favorite band for over a decade.  

There is simply no better way to celebrate a July Saturday night than by supporting local artists and enjoying the premium hospitality of the Gates Four Country Club. 

(Photo: Rivermist, a Fayetteville Favorite, have been playing together since 2014. They have been an Up and Coming Weekly's Best of Fayetteville Winner for Best Local Band for several years. Photos courtesy of Greg Adair and Rivermist's Facebook page)