The venue for the event was a place to explore the state's rich baseball history, including its connection to the movie Bull Durham. While the movie was primarily filmed in Durham, some scenes were shot at Fleming Stadium, which is also the home of the Wilson Tobs
The museum itself focuses on North Carolina baseball, with exhibits on players from the state and memorabilia from various eras.
Surrounded by North Carolina's rich history, with laughter in the air, and the spirit of grassroots patriotism, this wasn’t your average political mixer—it was a fun and serious discussion about outreach to Republican men.
The $30 ticket bought attendees a hearty dose of Americana: all-you-can-eat burgers, hot dogs, cold sodas, baseball, a free commemorative hat, and access to a museum dedicated to North Carolina’s rich baseball history. It also opened the door to serious networking among Republican men—and women—who are rolling up their sleeves ahead of the 2026 midterms.
All proceeds from the event went to the NC Men's Federation's newest club in Tar River
The night’s main event was the announcement of John Nix as the new President of the Federation. Nix, known for his trademark shirt boldly patterned with red fish, took the mic and outlined a plan to “cast a wide net” across North Carolina to gather up new members and expand their leadership into new parts of North Carolina. As a member of the NCGOP Executive Committee, he aims to draw in men from all walks of life—not just traditional political club regulars. Nix told us to expect a slate of approachable, impactful events: from early morning coffee chats to ballgames and barbecues.
“We’re not here to lecture. We’re here to lead by example,” Nix said. “Men are hungry for meaningful engagement—whether it’s supporting candidates, shaping policies, or just finding common ground with like-minded patriots.”
Nix isn’t alone in his mission. Founding member Michele Nix, his wife, a former NCGOP State Vice Chair, welcomed guests with her signature blend of energy and warmth. Women can join as associate members, and their voices were clearly part of the evening’s chorus. One such guest, Diane Petterson, proudly pointed out a family connection to baseball legend Smoky Burgess, whose story is preserved within the Wilson Museum.
Burgess, born in Caroleen, NC, had an illustrious Major League career (1949–1967), earning six All-Star nods, a World Series ring with the Pirates in 1960, and later roles as a coach and scout. A statue of him now stands tall in Forest City—a reminder that greatness often begins in small North Carolina towns.
"He was always sensitive about being born so poor. He lived in a home with dirt floors," Diane said, "But he ended up being famous and wealthy."
Attendees also heard updates on expansion efforts across the state, including the creation of new Federation chapters aimed at bolstering local engagement and conservative activism.
Diane's husband. Jeff Patterson was appointed by John Nix, at the meeting to oversee all expansion in the western side of North Carolina. Jeff Patterson was excited about the opportunities to talk to men, especially about their concerns over raising taxes, loss of employment, and the increase in illegal immigration that is impacting Western North Carolina's life.
VFAF and Federation members continue to connect on social media, especially via the Men’s Federation Facebook group , where respectful debate is encouraged and all voices are welcome.
The Federation’s guiding principle? Empowering men to use their agency to influence the future of their communities and country.
Want to get involved? You can follow John Nix on Facebook and check out the official press release here
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As the crowd left the museum under a warm summer sky, many lingered just a little longer, chatting, laughing, and making plans for what’s next. For this group of dedicated patriots, this game is only beginning.
VFAF was proud to attend and support this excellent direction for our state, and we look forward to networking across the state in the future.
Kari Baxter Donovan
VFAF NC State Chapter Press Secretary
Veterans for America First
Kari has worked across multiple campaigns as a strategist, photographer, social media pundit, and grassroots organizer. Notably, Kari worked with Earl Phillips, Donald Trump’s North Carolina state campaign director, during the 2015–2016 election cycle and later contributed to the RNC’s Trump Victory campaign through the NCGOP in 2020.
In 2024, she wrote pro-Trump content for Steve Bannon’s WarRoom and Ben Bergquam’s Frontline America, solidifying her role as a leading voice in the America First movement. A political writer and activist since 1998, Kari began following politics on Free Republic in the pre–Tea Party era and has since contributed to outlets such as Big League Politics, National File, Republic Brief, Gateway Pundit, and Roger Stone’s Stone Cold Truth. Her work has supported key America First figures, including David J. Harris Jr., Ben Bergquam, and Steve Bannon. She is currently a writer for WarRoom.
