BBQ Boss Drives Off Into the Sunset

Nelson Driver, executive director of Bikes, Blues & BBQ for the last six years, is retiring from the position Dec. 31. The Fayetteville-based event has doubled in size since 2005, and grown into one of the most popular motorcycle rallies in the country.

“When I took this position it was a few months of intense work, and now it’s intense constantly,” said Driver, who also teaches at the Walton College of Business.

Despite wanting to slow down some, he loves the festival and admires the positive economic impact it has on the region every fall. The 10-member bikes board was informed of Driver’s decision in June and is searching for a full-time replacement.

It also is hunting for office space. Right now the group’s headquarters fills about 1,200 SF of basement space inside Garrison Asset Management’s Dickson Street office. Fayetteville’s Cardinal IT Resources will be the new tenant in the Garrison building. 

“We’re not being kicked out,” Driver said. “Tom Garrison has been wonderful. He donated that space to us for the last two years. And that doesn’t come along often, especially in this market.”

Driver said the group is looking for a combination office/warehouse space near Fayetteville’s downtown, and currently has a couple spots in mind. Driver said the popular nonprofit outgrew its location long ago, and hopes a new home arrives via donation.