The ability to retire with financial security is a goal for millions of people across the globe. Though people may stop working in retirement, many of their existing bills, and even some new ones, will still need to be paid.

Retirement is often imagined as a time of unbridled financial freedom, but that’s only possible when individuals, including young professionals, prioritize planning for the day when they call it quits.

Retirement accounts and plans are a popular way to save for life after working. Individuals have various retirement plan options at their disposal, and each is unique in its own way.

An Individual Retirement Account is a tax-advantaged way to save for retirement. Anyone with earned income can open an IRA. Money deposited into an IRA cannot be withdrawn prior to account holders reaching 59.5 years of age without incurring a steep tax penalty of 10%.

There are limits to how much individuals can deposit into an IRA. In addition, there are different types of IRAs, including traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs, Payroll Deduction IRAs, and SIMPLE IRAs.

Each has its rules regarding taxes, eligibility and withdrawals, and individuals are urged to discuss which type of IRA is best for them with a financial professional. A 401(k) is another tax-advantaged retirement account typically offered through an employer, though self-employed individuals can enroll in a Solo 401(k) plan.

When enrolled in a 401(k) plan, employees will have a portion of each paycheck direct deposited into a long-term investment account. Contributions to a 401(k) are made pre-tax, which saves account holders a considerable sum of money so long as they continue to make contributions. One significant advantage to 401(k) plans is that many employers will match contributions up to a certain percentage.

For example, some may match up to 2%, so employees who contribute 2% or more will actually be depositing no less than 4% of their income each week into their 401(k) accounts. Perhaps most beneficial is that employer matches do not count toward the annual 401(k) contribution limits.

A Simplified Employee Pension Plan is typically established by a small business owner or self-employed individual. However, small business owners can set them up for their employees as well. Contributions to an SEP will reduce taxable income, and the money will grow tax-deferred.

Individuals enrolled in an SEP will only pay taxes on the money upon withdrawal. One of the advantages to an SEP is it has significantly higher contribution limits. However, SEPs are employer contribution only, so they rely a lot on employers’ available cash.

No retirement accounts are the same. Individuals are urged to conduct their own research and choose the plan that best suits their needs.

Understanding how the heart works can help people become more attuned to their personal health and wellness.

For example, recognition of the importance of heart rate may shed light on aspects of heart health that people may otherwise never think about.

According to HealthDirect, heart rate, or pulse, is the number of times the heart beats per minute. A resting heart rate refers to the heart rate when one is relaxed, sitting down or lying down.

For normal, healthy adults, a resting heart rate ranges between 60 and 100 beats per minute.
The American Heart Association indicates that resting heart rate is the heart pumping the lowest amount of blood needed because the body is not exerting itself.

A lower resting heart rate is common among people who are very physically fit — sometimes as low as 40 bpm. This results from the heart muscle being very athletic and not having to work very hard to maintain a steady beat.

Resting heart rate differs according to age. Verywell Health says babies and children have higher resting heart rates because their hearts are smaller.

Resting heart rate will gradually decrease until about age 10, at which point it stabilizes through adulthood. Here’s the expected resting heart rates based on age.

• 0-1 month: 70-190 bpm
• 1-11 months: 80-160 bpm
• 1-2 years: 80-130 bpm
• 3-4 years: 80-120 bpm
• 5-6 years: 75-115 bpm
• 7-9 years: 70-110 bpm
• 10 years+: 60-100 bpm
• Athlete: 40-60 bpm

Knowing one’s typical resting heart rate can help people stay apprised of their personal health. A lower-than normal resting heart (bradycardia) could indicate a congenital heart defect, a heart blockage, heart damage, or abnormally high blood calcium. It also may indicate hypothyroidism, hypothermia or other conditions.

A higher resting heart rate (tachycardia) may suggest other issues, such as anemia, obesity, dehydration, fever, heart failure, hyperthyroidism, or overconsumption of stimulants like caffeine or nicotine.

Resting heart rate is not directly linked to blood pressure and is not an indication of blood pressure problems.

Heart rate is measured on the inside of the wrist or on the artery in the neck at the base of the jaw. Pulse should be counted for 30 seconds and then multiplied by two to find beats per minute.
Individuals should keep in mind that air temperature, body position, emotions, body size, and medication use can affect heart rate.

Checking heart rate several times can provide a more accurate perception of resting heart rate. Any concerns should be discussed with a doctor.

Join the Fayetteville After Five audience on June 9 at Festival Park for a free Friday night concert featuring music, food and fun. The venue is located at 335 Ray Avenue.

Two bands will be performing: Honeysickle and On the Border, The Ultimate Eagles Tribute band. In addition, there will also be several food trucks for ordering food.

The gates open at 5 p.m., with Honeysickle performing at 6 p.m. On the Border starts at 8 p.m., with the music ending around 10:30 p.m. Admission is free.

Fayetteville After Five happens on the second Friday of June, July and August. The concert is outside, and guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets to the family-friendly event.

Canopies, coolers, outside food, beverages are prohibited (food and beverages can be purchased from the various food trucks). Service dogs are welcome. The concert is scheduled to begin with Honeysickle, based out of Wilmington. The band performs rock 'n' roll rooted in deep southern funk and blues.

Honeysickle describes their sound as “gritty, funky and raw.” Their sound will have you jamming right along with them. On the Border is billed as The Ultimate Eagles Tribute band and will close the show. On the Border will cover all the Eagles’ big hits from “Life in the Fast Lane,” “Desperado,” “Heartache Tonight,” “Lyin' Eyes,” and many more.

In 2015 they were invited to appear on AXS TV’s hit show, “The World's Greatest Tribute Bands.” If you’re a fan of the Eagles or enjoy classic rock and timeless music, mark your calendar for June 9 at Festival Park.

While you enjoy the music, you can go on a culinary adventure with various food trucks that will be present at the event. Treat yourself while exploring food from Drizzle D's Donuts, which offers artisan donuts; Lee's Kitchen with its savory Jamaican and southern soul food; Asadito, is bringing Argentinean cuisine; and Steel Smokin is known for its tasty BBQ.

For more information about Fayetteville After Five visit www.thedogwoodfestival.com/fayetteville-after-five.

In a presentation Thursday, May 25 Cumberland County administrators recommended to the Board of Commissioners a $566.9 million budget for the next fiscal year with no changes in the property tax rate.

But the plan also calls for more than doubling the solid waste fee.

The proposed budget is more than last year’s spending of $553.7 million, with an increase of $13.2 million. Actual spending for this fiscal year, however, is projected to land at $520.5 million by June 30, the end of fiscal year 2023. County Manager Clarence Grier, in his first budget presentation to the board since being hired earlier this year, said the economic challenges the county will face next year will be similar to that seen in the recent past.

“As we look at the economic outlook and aftermath of COVID-19, we continue to face some ongoing challenges and concerns such as the opioid addiction, mental health, upheaval due to the great resignation and wage growth that has caused inflation and supply-chain issues,” Grier said.

Solid waste fee increase

While no property tax increase is recommended in the 2024 budget, the county staff recommended increasing the solid waste fee from the current $56 to $130, a move that the county projects will generate $7.1 million in revenue. The solid waste fee is what the county uses to operate its landfills.

The county is also recommending increases in landfill tipping fees, a measure projected to generate $254,000 a year.

Beyond generating revenue, Grier said the increases will help finance construction and maintenance projects that will increase capacity at county landfills. The increases also, Grier said, will put Cumberland County more in line with neighboring counties.

“Tipping fees are the lowest in our region of any other county around us,” Grier said. “You can prevent others from bringing their waste to our landfills as we’re trying to expand the capacity.”

School funding

In the recommended budget, the county has allocated $87.5 million for Cumberland County Schools, a $3.2 million increase over last year. But it is lower than the $88.2 million that the Board of Education requested last month, CityView reported.

As for Fayetteville Technical Community College, the county is recommending funding of $15.4 million, up $1.2 million from last year but lower than the $16 million requested.

Crown Center funding

Earlier this month, the county unveiled the design for its $131.7 million Crown Event Center, a multipurpose center in downtown Fayetteville that’s set to replace the Crown Theater and Arena, CityView reported.
Revenue from the food and beverage tax and the occupancy tax in the recommended budget will be used to finance that project.

The event center is set to open by November 2025.

Next steps

The commissioners did not ask any questions following Grier’s presentation, but the board is scheduled to meet at 5:30 p.m. June 1 in Room 564 of the Cumberland County Courthouse for a work session on the budget.

A public hearing on the budget is scheduled for 7 p.m. June 7 in Room 118 at the courthouse.

The Spring Lake Family Support Services, also known as “The Kinsey House”, is a nonprofit organization located in the heart of Spring Lake. It’s a support services organization with the mission to reach families, restore community, renew minds & rise strong together.

They are hosting their first ever Community Health Fair, partnering with Goshen Medical Center, as well as other services and vendors to serve the community from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday June 3. The event is located at First Presbyterian Church, right up the street from The Kinsey House. Attendees will be able to get medical screenings, information on dental health and pediatrics, as well as knowledge on pharmacies and internal medicine.

There will be dental consultants, legal aid advisors, breast exams, and COVID testing available. Several health-related needs can be addressed at the upcoming health fair, giving the community a personal experience with health experts. Health assessments will be available to the homeless for $1. The cost will be on a sliding scale for others.

Up & Coming Weekly had a chance to talk with CEO and Founder Debora Hudson, as well as Office Manager Sandy Woltmann, to discuss what their mission is and how much this event means to the community.

It’s no secret that access to affordable healthcare is a nationwide issue. When speaking with them, they said they’ve noticed that a lot of people in general don’t go to the doctor. A lot of people do not have insurance, and some people who have insurance don’t go, because they can’t afford the co-pays.

Hudson says, “I think a mobile unit set up with other vendors, food trucks, and music makes it more comfortable for people to come and do what they need to do to be seen. It opens the doors for them to be a little bit more personable with the medical team that’s coming. The Rape Crisis Center will be here. Medicare, Legal Aid, Action Pathways, the foster care division from DSS, Blue Cross Blue Shield, CPR demonstrations. All these things relate to the health of the community.”

The Kinsey House was created out of a vision to meet needs that have been overlooked for far too long. The nonprofit managers pride themselves on looking for and intentionally seeking out ways to provide these needs to the community.

Spring Lake is separate from Fayetteville, making the SLFSS the only “homeless shelter” or organization that can provide support services for those in need, in the city of Spring Lake.

“We thrive on mental health, physical health, emotional health, just meeting people where they are,” says Hudson. “We try our best to make sure that the community is in tune and connected to all services available to them, because people don't know a lot of the services that are out there. So, we just want to educate them of what's out there that will benefit them.”

The Kinsey House itself, located at 126 N 1st Street in Spring Lake, is currently under renovation, but will feature a computer lab, laundry services, and hygiene care for the homeless and those in need.
Other programs offered through the nonprofit include: Hearts of H.O.P.E for domestic violence victims, A Path 4Word for mentoring and tutoring, and Barbara’s Closet of Blessings for those in need of clothes in the community.

Their most recent event, which they plan to do every 3 to 4 months, is called Laundry Love Day. Gone are the days where you can go to a laundromat and do loads for quarters. Loads can cost as much as $4.50 each, at laundromats today, costing a family of four nearly $50 a trip. With the start of this event, the SLFSS was able to support several families. It was a need they didn’t know was so widespread in the community.

“We go to our local laundromat, and we load up all the machines and the dryers so people can use them,” says Hudson. “We bring laundry detergent and people can do their laundry for free within that time frame. We also serve coffee and water along with snacks and for people in line. And then we just talk to them, to see what their needs are, tell them what we offer and how we want to help the community.”

It’s clear to see that the Spring Lake Family Support Services has the best interest of people in the community at heart. They serve as an essential support system to many in need in Spring Lake through the variety of services offered.

Although they have several opportunities scheduled for the June event, Hudson says they hope to have another Health Fair in September on a much larger scale. The goal is to accommodate even more people.
They also plan to have another Laundry Love Day as soon as they can get it organized.

In the meantime, be sure not to miss their first Community Health Fair on June 3 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church.

The Rain Date is scheduled for June 10 in case of inclement weather.

For more information on how you can help and donate to the The Kinsey House, visit www.thekinseyhouse.org or call 910-584-7160. They can also be reached via email at springlakefamilyservice@gmail.com.

Since 1945, North Carolina Wildlife Federation has worked for all wildlife and habitats, bringing together outdoor enthusiasts, hunters and anglers, government and industry to protect the state’s natural resources.
Their work is centered around conserving wildlife, restoring habitats, connecting people with nature, conservation policy, climate resiliency and celebrating conservation.

“Celebrating Conservation” season is open now, with statewide calls of the wild for conservation award nominations, college scholarship applications and wildlife photo submissions.

Conservation Award Nominations

NCWF seeks conservation heroes from across the state for its 59th annual Governor’s Conservation Achievement Awards. The prestigious awards have honored individuals, associations, businesses, and governmental bodies that have exhibited an unwavering commitment to conserving North Carolina’s natural resources.

Citizens nominate conservation leaders, professionals and volunteers of all ages and backgrounds. A committee of scientists, environmental educators and conservation activists select award winners.

The online nomination deadline is June 15 at 6:00 p.m. Award recipients will be honored at a banquet on Sept. 9. Categories include Conservationist, Wildlife Conservationist, Sportsman or Sportswoman, Land Conservationist, Water Conservationist, Forest Conservationist, Marine Resources, Environmental Educator, Young Conservationist, Legislator, Conservation Organization, Business Conservationist, and Natural Resources Agency or Scientist of the Year.

College Scholarship Applications

Since the 1970s, NCWF has awarded scholarships to college students studying and working in the wildlife and conservation fields. Applicants must be enrolled full-time at an accredited North Carolina college or university with a major related to wildlife, fisheries, forestry, natural resources, conservation or environmental studies.

NCWF will provide up to seven grants, which may include one $2,500 Conservation Leadership grant for a student of outstanding merit. Socio-economic elements, extra-curricular involvement and academic performance all impact final decisions.

Students must submit scholarship applications and supporting documents online by June 16.

Visit NCWF’s scholarship page to learn more or apply. For questions, email Lacy Kegley at lacy@ncwf.org.

Wildlife Photography Contest

NCWF’s 5th Annual Wildlife Photography Contest for professional, amateur and youth photographers runs from July 1 through September 1. Images must be taken in North Carolina and highlight the beauty of the state’s nature and wildlife, whether in a backyard or across the state. Categories are Carolina Critters, People in Nature, Scenes of North Carolina and Pollinators & Insects (new category).

Entry donations start at $15 for 12 photos (3 images max per category), with all proceeds supporting the conservation and restoration of wildlife and habitat in North Carolina. Visit NCWF’s photo contest page for entry requirements and contest rules. Photographers can submit entries electronically from July 1 through Sept. 1. Email photos@ncwf.org for questions.

To learn more about the North Carolina Wildlife Federation visit https://ncwf.org/ or call 803-608-0019.

“There can be no security anywhere in the free world if there is no fiscal and economic stability within the United States.” — President Ronald Reagan

President Reagan understood the importance of getting America’s economy in order. Yet our crippling debt, now at over $30 trillion, continues to threaten our standing in the world and must be addressed.

President Joe Biden refused to negotiate for more than 100 days to address the debt. Our country cannot afford to default on our debt due to Washington Democrat’s political games. Under Speaker Kevin McCarthy, House Republicans have raised the debt limit in a responsible way. We are united in our desire to address the debt crisis and curb reckless spending for years to come.

I am proud of our work to save America from defaulting and will stay focused on improving our economy for you and your family.

While Washington Democrats have procrastinated on the debt ceiling, they have also refused to acknowledge the magnitude of the crisis at our Southern border. Yet it is clear — extreme Democrats’ support of radical open border policies have resulted in the worst border crisis in American history.

Earlier this month, Title 42, a public health border security measure that has been used to keep nearly 3 million illegal migrants out of the U.S. since 2020, expired. In the days leading up to this, more than 10,000 migrants were encountered at the border, shattering records.

To address the crisis, House Republicans passed the Secure the Border Act — the strongest border security bill America has ever seen. It will keep our nation safe and our border secure.
It’s plain and simple — border security is national security. Our bill ends catch and release, fixes the asylum program, hires more border patrol agents, restarts border wall construction, and protects children from human trafficking.

Once again, House Republicans have shown we have solutions to the challenges facing our nation while others choose to ignore them.

Recently, in celebration of National Police Week, House Republicans condemned ‘defunding the police’ and anti-police rhetoric and passed the POLICE Act of 2023 and the Federal Law Enforcement Officer Service Weapon Purchase Act.

We seek to give local law enforcement the resources and support they need to get the job done.

In recent years, good police officers dedicated to keeping our communities safe have not always received the resources and respect they deserve. Assaults on police have gone up significantly, leading to the deadliest year in two decades for our law enforcement officers.

As we recognized Memorial Day last week, we honored our brave service members who gave their lives in the defense of the freedoms we hold so dear. I am deeply grateful to be an American, and incredibly appreciative of those who risk their lives daily to defend our liberties. And I will never forget the sacrifices our military families make every day.

Our nation is the greatest on earth because of courageous service members, law enforcement officers, and their families. May God bless America, and the men and women in uniform who protect our community and keep this great nation free.

For musician Jon Kiebon, performing is personal — not only because of his enduring love for music and songwriting, but also his love for his 25-year-old daughter Gail, who is on the autism spectrum.

“I always say I could never express my love for her in words, so I let the guitar do the talking,” Kiebon said.

Kiebon said he let the guitar do the talking in the best song he has written, an instrumental dedicated to his daughter simply called “For the Love of Gail.”
The singer-songwriter has long been a veteran of the open mic scene, both in his home state of New York and in Fayetteville, where he moved in June of 2021.
Kiebon, better known by his stage name Jammin’ Jon, said he has long tried to use his musical talent for good and a cause close to his heart, raising money and awareness for autism and autism organizations.

“The motivation behind this is personal as an artist,” Kiebon said. “But I always try to do some good with it.”

This June, Kiebon hopes to do just that with the inaugural Fayetteville Singer/Songwriters Festival, a three-day concert series featuring local musicians with all proceeds to be used for school supplies for special education teachers in Cumberland County.

“A lot of times, the classroom teachers have to lay out supplies and pay out of their own pocket,” Kiebon said.

Each day of the festival, organized in association with the Fayetteville Cumberland County Arts Council, will showcase local talent. Those attending can offer a $5 suggested donation to support the cause.
Jammin’ Jon’s Fayetteville Sing/Songwriters Festival will take place on three days in June. The festival will kick off on June 3 at the Arts Council. The concert will continue June 10 at Paul’s Place on 719 Starling Street, and on June 17 at Louie’s Pub on 2417 Robeson Street. All performances will last from 2 to 6 p.m.

After moving to Fayetteville almost two years ago during the height of the pandemic, Kiebon said he felt a bit of culture shock trying to adapt to the new area.
He said he found his footing participating in open mics as local businesses began opening their doors and easing restrictions, allowing him to meet and network with other like-minded local performers.

“It’s a struggle for me to pursue my love of performing, music, songwriting, guitar playing, whatever it is, but I still, whenever I could, tried to make the open mics... and was definitely connecting with new musicians and songwriters all the time,” Kiebon said.

Kiebon said it can feel more difficult for local artists who create their own music to reach larger audiences, but hopes the upcoming festival helps to boost area talent while raising awareness for an important cause.

“That’s when I thought of this idea, and I said ‘it will help me get out there, keep me out there, and get other people (out there),’” Kiebon said.

Kiebon said he hopes the festival reminds artists to not give up on their dreams and their passions and encourages them to continue their craft.

“You’re never too old,” Kiebon said. “Never give up. Keep trying to get heard and get out there. And then I’m thrilled that I can try to tie it in again and raise some funds for autism awareness and for the dedicated professionals in the school system.”

The New York native hopes to continue the Fayetteville Singer/Songwriter’s Festival in the future, potentially considering seeking corporate sponsorship.

The June 3 performance will feature the musical talents of Jammin’ Jon, David Brown, the Untitled Lilly Sparkle Project and Tony Hirtz.

The Untitled Lilly Sparkle Project is the stage name for Katie Hamilton, a former Marine with hopes to attend UNC-Pembroke in the fall to complete her music degree.

Hamilton was born and raised in Lumberton, and is fairly new to songwriting, having begun writing only about a year and a half ago. Hirtz recently retired after serving in the military. He references classic rock, country rock, college or alternative rock, classic punk and Americana as his musical influences.

When not performing as a singer-songwriter in Fayetteville, Hirtz is part of the band Tidewater Valley based in Virginia. He allows his personal experiences to influence his writing. The June 10 show will offer performances from David Childers, Tricia DiLello, House and OT Hill.

Childers is a Gastonia native who came to the eastern part of the state in the 1970s. He pursued music on the side while spending 28 years as an educator for Cumberland County Schools. Upon retirement, the multi-instrumentalist began spending more time on his music.

Childers sites musicians such as Doc Watson, Creedence Clearwater Revival, REM, John Prine, Tony Rice, and Gordon Lightfoot as influences. He also plays guitar and serves as a backup vocalist for singer KasCie Page.

DiLello originates from the Elizabethtown area and said she enjoys pursuing storytelling through her Americana-styled songs. Hill has around 20 years of musical experience and regularly attends and participates in local open mic nights. He plays a variety of country and singer/songwriter music.

The June 17 show will include musicians David Sears, Denniz Cargile and Damien Lugo. Lugo, a visual artist and tattoo artist for Brighter Shade Tattoo in Fayetteville, labels his work as a “psychedelic folky project.”

Cape Fear Valley Health Foundation raised nearly $55,000 through the second annual Step Up 4 Health and Wellness Expo last month.

The event, which was held at Methodist University, raised money to support multiple patient care areas at Cape Fear Valley Health, including cancer care, heart care, children’s services, Community Alternatives Program and Cumberland County Medication Access Program.

“We were very excited to see more than 500 participants at this year’s event, and we expect to continue to grow more in the future,” said Cape Fear Valley Health Vice President of Foundation Sabrina Brooks.

“We had a great sunny day with beautiful weather and I think everyone had a lot of fun with all the activities.”

The event included more than 50 vendors in the Wellness Expo, including different Cape Fear Valley Health service lines, community organizations and sponsors.

There were also food trucks, a Survivor Lap, Zumba and yoga sessions. The main events were the 4k and one mile walking or running routes through the Methodist University campus.

“We want to sincerely thank our Presenting Sponsor, Cumulus Media, as well as our host, Methodist University, for helping us put on such a fantastic event,” Brooks said.
Other major sponsors for the event included Cape Fear Valley Health, Systel Business Equipment, Truist, Pepsi Bottling Ventures and Valley Radiology.

Public safety is improving in Fayetteville, at least from the perspective of the Police Department.

Police Chief Kemberle Braden presented crime statistics for the first quarter of 2023 May 22 to the Fayetteville City Council that show decreased levels of crime and more arrests compared to last year.
According to the data presented, property crimes are down 9%, crimes against people are down 3% and arrests are up 38%.

“What does that mean? It means your officers are out there working,” Braden told the City Council during his presentation. “If crime is coming down and arrests are going up, that means your people are out there fighting crime. As long as these two numbers are converging, that is a good sign for crime in the city of Fayetteville.”

Homicides are down 18% compared to the first quarter of 2022, but the actual numerical difference is small — nine this year compared to 11 in 2022.

While Braden sees increased arrests as good for the city, council member Mario Benavente had a different perspective.

“The idea that arrests going up is automatically a good thing is what I take issue with,” Benavente said. “We're never going to arrest our way out of the public safety issues in Fayetteville. In fact, when we overcriminalize and we engage in arresting as many people as we can, we create barriers for folks that, in the criminal justice system, are going to end up with charges, are going to end up with records that are going to prevent them from getting decent jobs and being able to get into decent living.”

Benavente does not put the issue of improving public safety, however, solely on the police. He advocated for an office of community safety, an entity outside the Police Department that would seek to improve public safety in the city. Community organizers in Fayetteville have pushed for weeks for the initiative to be put in next year’s city budget, CityView reported.

Immediately following the presentation, Mayor Mitch Colvin thanked Braden and the Police Department for their work on reducing crime.

“I don’t know any perfect department, perfect council, perfect people, but you guys are certainly making strides, and we are appreciative of what you do,” Colvin said.

Braden’s first 90 days

Braden, who was sworn in as police chief earlier this year, outlined progress on goals he had set for his first 90 days on the job.

During those first 90 days, Braden said, he spoke with police officers of all ranks and with people in the community to determine what needed to change to improve public safety in Fayetteville.
Braden said the strengths of the department are the people within the police force and those in other city departments.

“As always, our people are always going to be our strength, our community partners, our city staff,” Braden said.

Weaknesses Braden identified included retention and morale among officers and outdated facilities.
Braden said the opportunities the department has going forward include enacting change through the young police force the department employs and highlighting Fayetteville police as the largest department in southeastern North Carolina.

“We should be able to recruit people from all over to come to Fayetteville, North Carolina, because of the opportunities we offer that these other surrounding jurisdictions and counties and municipalities don't have,” Braden said.

Does gardening count as exercise? The answer is yes! While the weather is warming, the temperature is still cool enough in the morning to get out those tools and enjoy working in the yard. A little sweat and dirt can be beneficial.

The benefits go beyond exercise, cognition and feeling proud of your accomplishments. Working in the yard can burn as many as 300 calories in 30 to 45 minutes and heavy gardening can burn as many as 700 calories. Gardening can include digging, raking, pulling weeds, planting, pulling vines, trimming hedges, picking up pinecones, weed eating and shoveling - just to name a few. Engaging in yard work can be a lot more fun than walking on a treadmill.

At the end of the day, gardening can result in sore muscles and a sore back when you are not used to the effort. Start slow before you jump into heavier projects. Gardening involves strength, endurance and flexibility, and can put a strain on your muscles. Take your time warming up and doing the light activities first, saving the heavier lifting and bending until later.

Digging is a high-intensity activity that engages several muscle groups at once to include your shoulders, quads, arms and calves. Pushing that shovel in the dirt, turning it over, planting the flower, and placing the dirt back is a multiplanar activity.

When you work in the garden you are working in all three planes of motion which are the sagittal, frontal and transverse, and many times you work in all three planes at once. Twisting, bending, pulling and reaching is light aerobic exercise with benefits to the heart, blood pressure, and helps in burning calories.

Planting a vegetable garden results in a daily walk to gather fresh fruit and vegetables for salads and cooking. Your squash, cucumbers, beans, tomatoes, strawberries, apples, peaches, and more are a smorgasbord of healthy eating without pesticides.

Yard work and gardening can stimulate the mind with attention to detail for planting, color combinations, watering, blending of soil, aromatic plants, and the feel of textures.

The garden is a happy place to be with no age limit. It is a place that you can visit alone to see how your vegetables are growing, gather blooms for containers, and share your vegetables with friends. It is a quiet place for gathering thoughts. You can share the growth of your garden with friends and share garden tips.

Gardening can also be a spiritual connection when you focus on something greater than us, which is the miracle of growth. It is a place to see the birds gather and the sun shining on all that you have planted. It is a place that you visit first in the morning and in the evening to say good night until the next day. You water, nurture, pull weeds, and delight in new buds for flowers and vegetables and this is your happy place.

Live, love life and gardening.

Financial planning is a key component of successful money management. When financial plans are established and put in place, individuals are in much better position to achieve both short-term goals, like financing a dream vacation, and long-term aspirations, like retiring with enough money to live your golden years without worry.

No one is born knowing how to handle and manage money. Financial literacy is an acquired skill, which means anyone can learn how to manage money effectively. The following are a handful of ways individuals from all walks of life can improve their financial literacy.

Crack the books (and magazines). A wealth of resources are available to anyone looking to become better at managing money, and many of those resources are books and magazines. Printed works are available for people with varying levels of financial literacy, so it’s unlikely that any single text or magazine will benefit everyone equally. Find a text that speaks to your level of literacy and build from there.

Pay attention to financial news. The days when financial news was limited to industry insiders or a handful of industry publications are long gone. Various online entities and cable television channels are now exclusively devoted to financial news.

Anyone can benefit from paying attention to financial news, which can shed light on investments, real estate and financial industry trends that can help people better understand their portfolios and assets.

Read your emails. Adults who already have retirement accounts and other investments may also have an invaluable resource right inside their email inboxes. Investment management firms like The Vanguard Group, Inc., routinely host online information sessions and discussions for investors that are promoted through email and other lines of communication with account holders.

When promotional emails announcing these sessions are announced, take note and resolve to participate. Many don’t require active participation, but they often provide insight into financial products, markets and strategies to successful investing.

Ask questions. It seems simple, but one of the most effective ways to gain greater financial literacy is to ask questions. If you work with a financial planner or are interviewing professionals to help you manage your money, ask that person to explain their financial strategy and the strategy espoused by their firms.

When a new short- or even long-term goal pops up on your radar, ask your financial advisor to explain ways in which you can achieve that goal. Such discussions can reveal strategies that even well-informed individuals may be unaware of.

Financial literacy can help people achieve their life’s goals. Various strategies can help people from all walks of life improve their financial knowledge and take greater control of their finances and futures.

The 5th Annual Out of Sight Wing Fling is taking place on June 3, hosted by the Vision Resource Center. It’s a chicken wing cook-off to raise awareness for the blind and visually impaired in the city.

Guests and judges will be blindfolded for the initial judging— only being able to taste, feel and smell, who has the best wings. This year 11 competitors will be battling it out for a cash prize, with their own custom spices and sauces.

The wings being used for the cook-off are donated by Mountaire every year. Dirtbag Ales is hosting the event for the second year in a row, pairing the variety of delicious wings with local brews, live music, and food trucks to enjoy.

There will also be different stations and activities for guests to participate in to educate the public on the living experience of the visually impaired.

All the proceeds raised from the Wing Fling will be go toward assisted technology for the blind and visually impaired here in Cumberland County.

Early bird tickets for the public are $15, which gets you 11 wings, one from every competitor participating. For the real chicken wing lovers, the event is offering VIP tickets for $75. This includes unlimited wings from any competitor, a VIP tent with snacks and drinks, custom brew and glass from Dirtbag Ales, and a fast pass to go through lines with ease.

The Vision Resource Center is a nonprofit organization for adults and children based here in Fayetteville that enhances the quality of life for the blind and visually impaired in every way they can.

The nonprofit offers several programs, social activities, support groups, and classes.

Up & Coming Weekly had a chance to sit down and talk with Terri Thomas, the passionate Executive Director of the Vision Resource Center.
Thomas became executive director in 2010 and has been organizing the Wing Fling since the beginning.

“When it comes to the Vision Resource Center, we try to meet them where they are, to be able to help people with whatever they need to do,” she said. “Just depends on the day of the week. There are a lot of things under the umbrella of VRC.”

When asked how she hopes the Wing Fling will grow, she says “Our goal is to have different businesses competing, having vendors that connect to our mission, and having other nonprofits to be able to come out and compete. It would be a great way to network and also the chance to do something different.”

Don’t miss out on the chance to learn how we can all help enhance the lives of the visually impaired, while enjoying great wings and fellowship at the same time!

The event is from noon to 4 p.m. at Dirtbag Ales Brewery and Taproom located in Hope Mills. To purchase tickets for the event or volunteer with the Vision Resource Center, visit www.Visionresourcecentercc.org or call 910-483-2719.

It is still Fort Bragg.

But only until June 2.

Then North Carolina’s mammoth U.S. Army base will become Fort Liberty. Still, it will always be Fort Bragg in my memories.

My first experience in a racially integrated work situation was in ROTC summer camp at Fort Bragg in 1961. I was the product of a segregated secondary and college education. It was different at Bragg. Not only were there many Black cadets in my company, but the regular Army lieutenant colonel in charge of us was Black. He was a wonderful leader.

I remember the welcome speech he gave on our first day. He gathered his cadets around. We were scared to death, and he told us the story of Fort Bragg, and how it came to be named for a military leader, a general in the Confederate army named Braxton Bragg. I thought many years later that he must have had to bite his tongue because Bragg had fought to keep Blacks in slavery.

Many of the Black cadets were potentially superior future officers. They prepared me, as the Army of the 1950’s and 1960’s prepared hundreds of thousands of other southern men, for the changes to come in civilian life in North Carolina.

I arrived at Fort Bragg as a white boy who had never gone to school with Blacks, never eaten in the same restaurant, never drunk at the same water fountain, never rode in the same section of a bus or a train — and put me right beside some of the best people I ever met (not all my same color). I was never the same.

When I left that summer, I don’t want to say I was free of racism, but I was a changed person. I rejoiced in the diversity that Army life brought me and the great strength that came from mutual trust and respect. And

I knew that the principal beneficiary of the opening of doors of opportunity was me.
If our nation is ever successful in completing its task of erasing racism, intolerance and injustice, the Armed Forces and particularly the Army and Fort Bragg must be given due credit.

The Army has led the way.

Like many other North Carolinians, I have spent other times at Fort Bragg, including almost two years when I
was on active duty, living on Bragg Boulevard.

The most memorable time was on Thanksgiving weekend in 2002 when, as I wrote then, a little after midnight I picked up my son, Grier, at his Raleigh home, helped carry his heavy gear to my car, waited while he ran upstairs to tell his wife goodbye, get a look at his brand new daughter, and then begin our drive to Fort Bragg for the beginning of his long journey to the other side of the world.

It was raining as we approached Fayetteville, turned off Business I-95, and then on to Bragg Boulevard, passed the house where I lived as a young Army officer, and then passed by the shopping centers, pawnshops, night spots, mobile home lots, car dealerships and the other strong marks of a military town.

Still under the heaviness of the rain, we came on the base, passing through security where my son returned the salute of the guard, a signal that we would soon arrive at the point of formation, where my son and his traveling companions would gather this early morning to begin their trip to Afghanistan.

I will be happy to call it Fort Liberty from now on, but I will always remember what Fort Bragg has meant for me.

Editor's Note: D.G. Martin, a retired lawyer, served as UNC-System’s vice president for public affairs and hosted PBS-NC’s North Carolina Bookwatch.

The Greater Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce recently announced that Harmony Granderson is the new Director of Events.

“We are excited to welcome Harmony to our team,” said Nat Robertson, President & CEO of the Greater Fayetteville Chamber.

In the position, Granderson will build, implement and manage all aspects of the events carried out and supported by the Chamber. She will engage with various Chamber members to coordinate networking events and educational programs. She will work closely with the Marketing and Communications Director, Robyn Pitt, while organizing event press, presentations and sponsors.

“We’re ready for her to dig in and get going as our new events director. With her skillset and enthusiasm she will be a great asset to our Chamber,” Robertson said.

Harmony is a Fayetteville native with a passion for entrepreneurship, community involvement, and all things involving the arts. She is a graduate of Jack Britt High School and received a Bachelor’s of Science in Marketing. She is a recent graduate of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.

While she earned her degree and served various on-campus leadership roles, she also founded a small business of her own that focuses on promotion of small businesses, nonprofits, and minority owned companies.

The National Institute on Aging defines Alzheimer’s disease as a brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and an individual’s ability to think. The majority of individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease are 60 and older, which can give the impression that the disorder is exclusive to the elderly.

However, younger adults are not immune to the disease, and a small percentage of individuals under 60 could be diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s.

The prevalence of early-onset Alzheimer’s (sometimes referred to as “young-onset Alzheimer’s”) is unknown. However, early-onset Alzheimer’s can affect every aspect of a young person’s life, including their relationships, finances and ability to live independently. Such consequences underscore the significance of greater recognition of the condition and what it entails.

What is early-onset Alzheimer’s disease?

The experts at Johns Hopkins Medicine note that Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia and it most often affects older individuals. But in rare cases individuals under 60 can develop Alzheimer’s, and Johns Hopkins notes such instances generally affect people in their 40s and 50s. Most types of early-onset Alzheimer’s disease are the same, but cases may be categorized as common or genetic Alzheimer’s.

Common: Johns Hopkins notes that most people with early-onset Alzheimer’s have the common form of the disease, which progresses in much the same way as it does in older individuals.

Genetic: In rare cases, a young person may be diagnosed with genetic, or familial, Alzheimer’s. The United Kingdom-based Alzheimer’s Society notes that this is caused by genetic mutations that run in families.

The risk that this mutation will be passed from parents to children is 50%.

Individuals who develop genetic Alzheimer’s typically have lengthy family histories of the disease and may know several relatives, in addition to a parent, who were affected at a similar age.

What are the risk factors for early-onset Alzheimer’s?

Though people who develop early-onset Alzheimer’s disease are most likely to be diagnosed with the common form of the condition, family history of the disease remains the only known risk factor.

What are the symptoms of early-onset Alzheimer’s?

The Alzheimer’s Association notes that health care providers do not generally look for Alzheimer’s in young people, which can make the process of diagnosing the condition long and frustrating. Symptoms are often attributed to other factors, such as stress.

However, Johns Hopkins reports that the presence of these symptoms could indicate a person is in the early stages of early-onset Alzheimer’s:

• Forgetting important things, particularly newly learned information or important dates
• Asking for the same information again and again
• Trouble solving basic problems, such as keeping track of bills or following a favorite recipe
• Losing track of the date or time of year
• Losing track of where you are and how you got there
• Trouble with depth perception or other vision problems
• Trouble joining conversations or finding the right word for something
• Misplacing things and not being able to retrace your steps to find it
• Increasingly poor judgment
• Withdrawal from work and social situations
• Changes in mood or personality

Symptoms such as memory loss and behaviorial changes, including severe mood swings, are some of the signs that present as early-onset Alzheimer’s progresses.
Early-onset Alzheimer’s is a rare disorder. But its effects can be just as significant as forms of the disease that affect older individuals.

Despite global financial uncertainty, many people are still planning to spend on travel in 2023.

A recent survey from Booking.com found that 73% of respondents were more optimistic about travel than they were in 2022.
The survey also studied why people are looking to travel, and the most popular type of vacation was a nostalgic getaway, which 88% of travelers planned to take in 2023. That’s likely due to people looking back to the days before the COVID-19 pandemic with a strong sense of appreciation. Individuals also seem to see travel through a somewhat therapeutic lens, as 42% of survey respondents indicated they want a break that focuses on their mental and physical health.

Summer is peak travel season. Whether vacationers plan to travel internationally or domestically, they can expect to pay top dollar as they head off for parts unknown.
Much has been made of inflation over the last year-plus, as the cost of seemingly everything has risen considerably since early 2022. And the cost of travel has seemingly increased by an even greater percentage than the cost of groceries.

Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Consumer Price Index indicates the cost of airfare increased by more than 25% between January 2022 to January 2023.

Though travel has never been inexpensive, the rising costs noted in the Consumer Price Index have scared many consumers into staying home. However, consumers who want to travel but don’t want to break the bank can try various strategies as they seek to get out of the house this summer.

Travel domestically. With airfare costs skyrocketing, now might not be the most budget-friendly time to travel overseas. Thankfully, would-be vacationers can still get away. Average gas prices in early spring 2023 hovered around $3.43 per gallon, which is nearly $1 less per gallon than the year prior. By driving to their destinations, vacationers can save substantial sums of money and also maintain greater control of their trips, something that isn’t always so easy in an era marked by routine flight delays and
cancellations.

Change your timeline. If a faraway dream destination beckons, travelers might still be able to make it work if they have the flexibility to alter their timelines. Rather than taking a Monday through Friday off from work, consider starting and ending a vacation in mid-week. It’s generally less expensive, and sometimes significantly so, to fly mid-week compared to flying Friday-Monday.

Cash in your credit card points. Another way to ensure summer travel doesn’t put a big dent in your savings is to utilize cash back rewards or airline miles linked to your credit card account. If you have a lot of cash and/or miles saved up, the coming summer of expensive travel could be the ideal time to use them.

Consider a homestay over a hotel. Homestays, which includes booking through sites such as Airbnb and VRBO, are typically much less expensive to book than hotel rooms. But homestays also save travelers money on food, as many listings feature fully operational kitchens that can help travelers avoid dining out three times per day over the duration of their trips.

Travel is a significant expense as consumers continue to confront sharp increases in prices on various goods and services. However, it’s still possible to vacation without breaking
the bank.

The thudding sound of wrestlers hitting the mat fills my ears as practice begins. I am at a practice for a local indie wrestling organization called Ring Wars Carolina. RWC is an independent professional wrestling company owned by Dex Carter, located in Hope Mills. The wrestlers are scattered around the room, stretching, running drills, talking and practicing moves on each other.

One of the first things I notice is the speed of their warm-up drills. The goal is to perform each exercise with proper form and intensity, pushing physical limits and simulating the demands of a wrestling match. It helps wrestlers build strength, endurance, agility and mental toughness, which are crucial in the sport.

“Nite-Stic” Eddie McKoy, a wrestler and wrestling promoter driven by a lifelong passion for the sport, credits his love for pro wrestling to his formative years. It started when his father established a tradition of attending wrestling matches after their Sunday church service, instilling in him a deep fascination with the spectacle.

Years later, McKoy’s path crossed with Steve Corino, a seasoned wrestler who had made his mark in prominent organizations like ECW and NWA. Recognizing McKoy’s dedication and potential, Corino took him under his wing, becoming both mentor and guide, imparting invaluable knowledge of the wrestling business.

Today, McKoy’s expertise and unwavering commitment are showcased through his prominent role in RWC. With a proud tradition of exhilarating live shows and monthly TV tapings in Fayetteville, RWC has been a mainstay of entertainment for 25 years.

As a key figure in RWC, McKoy supervises the training and development of aspiring wrestlers, overseeing their practices and leading them through a series of warm-ups, drills, and exercises that contribute to their growth and skill enhancement.

Under McKoy’s guidance, RWC has attracted an impressive roster of wrestling stars.

Notable names such as Sasha Banks, Jordan Grace, Tatanka, Dusty Rhodes, Rock n Roll Express, The Hardy Boys, Al Snow, Earl Hebner, and Bryan Hebner have made their mark in North Carolina. Through McKoy’s passion and dedication, RWC continues to captivate audiences, providing a platform for aspiring wrestlers to chase their dreams and thrill fans with the electrifying world of professional wrestling.

After they finish their warm-up drills, McKoy has the wrestlers working on their 30-second promos. Afterward, they receive feedback to help them improve.

Next up are the practice matches. Two wrestlers step into the ring and face off against each other. At the same time, the other wrestlers gather around the ring. After each match, the other wrestlers point out areas for improvement, what was a success, provide advice on how to tweak a part of the performance, and more. The comradeship and support among the wrestlers are evident as they all work together to improve their craft.

One of the wrestlers who caught my attention with his wrestling and showmanship was “Gem Stone” (Josh McNeill). “Gem Stone,” an independent professional wrestler known as “The Diamond Of The Ring” and hailed as the Crown Jewel of Professional Wrestling, is a prominent figure in the wrestling world.

Trained at the esteemed Ring Wars Carolina Training Academy, “Gem Stone” represents the epitome of talent and skill. He holds the prestigious title of one-half of the RWC tag team champions alongside his partner CodeName FLX. Hailing from Dunn, “Gem Stone” has established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the industry.

With a show nearly every week, “Gem Stone” has been consistently showcasing his prowess inside the ring. Since making his debut in June 2018, “Gem Stone” has captivated fans with his electrifying performances. In an interview, he expressed high praise for RWC, emphasizing that they produce some of the highest quality wrestling he has ever witnessed.

To stay updated on “Gem Stone’s” incredible journey, fans can follow him on Instagram under the username @arealgemstone, on Facebook at Gem Stone Wrestling, and on YouTube at @GemStoneWrestling.

These Youtube channels showcase his captivating RWC matches and demonstrate his dedication and passion for the sport.
In addition to “Gem Stone,” another remarkable wrestler who deserves recognition is “CodeName FLX,” also known as “Wrestling’s only Active Paratrooper.” Teaming up with “Gem Stone” as one-half of the RWC tag team champions, “CodeName FLX” brings his unique talent and skills to the ring. Wrestling enthusiasts can follow “CodeName FLX” on Twitter @Project0820 and on Instagram under the handle @codename_flx.

By checking out his social media profiles, fans can witness his remarkable performances and see firsthand why he is regarded as a phenomenal wrestler. “Gem Stone” and “CodeName FLX” make a formidable tag team with their combined abilities and dedication.

The tag team duo, the “Wrustlers,” Paco and Wako, are former two-time tag team champions and independent wrestlers who have left an indelible mark in the industry. Their wrestling journey began by watching the sport alongside their father. Starting their careers in RWC, the “Wrustlers” honed their skills and showcased their teamwork. Reflecting on their time in RWC, they stated that it is a sure thing, a testament to the quality and reliability of the promotion. With their abilities and dedication, the “Wrustlers” continue to captivate audiences and solidify their place as remarkable talents in professional wrestling.

James Miranda, also known as School of Morton Champion “James Anthony,” is an independent wrestler with 12 years of ring experience, having trained in Florida. His signature move, the super kick, has become a crowd favorite. Miranda’s passion for wrestling ignited during his childhood when he watched WCW and WWF with his uncle, idolizing legends like the Ultimate Warrior and Hulk Hogan. He held the title of RWC Jr. Heavyweight Champion and notably lost it to Xander Keys during the 41st annual Dogwood Festival, which can be watched on YouTube.

Beyond wrestling, “James Anthony” contributes to show production, writing and talent scouting. Fans can follow him on Twitter at @87JamesAnthony and on Instagram at @1987jam to stay updated on his exciting journey in the wrestling world.

If you want to experience the exciting world of Ring Wars Carolina firsthand and stay updated on upcoming matches, you can visit their website at www.ringwarscarolina.net/. You can also follow RWC on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RingWarsCarolina and subscribe to their YouTube channel @RingWarsCarolinaTV.

While watching matches online is exciting, nothing beats being there in person. The sound of bodies hitting the mat, the slaps, and the energy create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Check their schedule of events, grab your tickets and join the live audience to immerse yourself in the electrifying world of Ring Wars Carolina.

Fort Bragg kicked off All American Week early Monday with the Division Run, according to a report by the Defense Visual Information Distribution Service. Paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne Division Sustainment Brigade participated.

All American Week will include sports, the Old Timer’s Breakfast, a memorial ceremony, and a hall of fame induction. It will conclude with the Division Review. Current and veteran paratroopers, their families, and the public will take part through Thursday.

The week of activities will celebrate the 40th anniversary of Operation Urgent Fury during the invasion of Grenada in 1983, according to a news release.

The schedule includes:

• 10 Miler: 6:30-9 a.m. Tuesday, Simmons Army Airfield.
• Division Memorial Ceremony: 11 a.m.-noon Tuesday, 82nd Airborne Museum.
• Junior Paratrooper of the Year ceremony and Family Fun Run: 4:30-8 p.m. Tuesday, Ardennes Street.
• Prayer Breakfast: 7-9 a.m. Tuesday, Iron Mike Conference Center.
• All American Hall of Fame: 11 a.m.-noon Wednesday, 82nd Airborne Division Hall of Heroes, Ardennes Street.
• Division Review: 10 a.m. Thursday, Pike Field.
• 34-Foot Tower: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, U.S. Army Advanced Airborne School.
• Sports competitions: Monday through Thursday at multiple sites.

Biologists with the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission say this month is when people are more likely to spot a coyote than any other time of year.

Coyotes are common throughout North Carolina, including in cities and suburbs, but often go unnoticed because they are skilled at avoiding people. In late spring, however, coyote parents are busy raising their young pups, which means more hours scouting for food and more opportunities for people to catch a glimpse of one.

While coyotes usually raise their young in secluded areas, keeping a litter of pups well-fed and healthy means covering plenty of ground to find enough food. Coyotes will roam a large area, crossing through neighborhoods and business districts, looking for an easy meal. Coyotes mostly eat rodents, rabbits, insects, fruit and carrion, but will also dine on pet food and table scraps left outside.

Seeing a coyote in a residential area shouldn’t cause alarm, as attacks on humans are very rare, and coyotes actually help to keep rodent populations in check. However, concerns for small pets, such as cats and small-breed dogs, may be valid as these animals can easily be mistaken for a coyote’s natural prey. For this reason, small pets should always be closely supervised when outdoors, or kept behind a dog-proof fence that is at least 6 feet tall and prevents digging underneath.

“Using a 6-foot leash is an excellent way to protect small pets when they’re outside,” advises Falyn Owens, extension biologist for the Wildlife Commission. “If you notice a coyote watching or following you during a walk, pick up your pet and haze the coyote until it leaves. Your physical presence can be a powerful deterrent for a curious coyote.”

Hazing can include standing tall, waving your arms and yelling at the coyote. In neighborhoods, residents can make the area less attractive to coyotes by removing easy food sources and actively scaring off any coyotes they see. Teaching a coyote to have a healthy fear of people is a great way to discourage unwanted behavior and foster coexistence.

Owens offers these tips to deter coyotes:

• Keep cats and small dogs on a leash or harness whenever they are outside. Backyard poultry should be kept in a predator-proof coop and run.
• Feed pets inside and keep food waste in secure containers. If you feed pets outside, set specific feeding times and remove the dishes and spilled food afterward.
• Keep fruit and bird seed off the ground. These foods can attract rodents and wildlife that prey on them.
• Haze coyotes seen around homes and businesses. Scaring coyotes away teaches them these areas are off limits and that people should be avoided.

Pup season brings an added factor to interacting with coyotes.

While a coyote will typically leave the area when confronted by a human, one that has vulnerable pups nearby is more likely to stand its ground. Coyotes use dens only as a nursery for newborn pups. As soon as the pups can survive outside of the den, the coyotes will abandon it and move on.

“This time of year, if you pass through a brushy or wooded area and notice a coyote watching you or following you at a distance, it could have a den nearby,” said Owens. “Calmly leave the area and notify others if you are near a public trail.”

If you have questions about interactions with coyotes, visit www.ncwildlife.org/coyote or contact the NC Wildlife Helpline, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 866-318-2401 or email HWI@ncwildlife.org.

The concept of Fasting in Fayetteville evolved from a conversation between two old seminary buddies last year. Sporadically, my former Oral Roberts University classmate, Saundra Blair, and I would check-in with each other to share updates. As is consistent with Saundra, she mentioned praying for some family members to “come to know the Lord.”

Saundra went on to mention several specific concerns and passionately declared that she was still praying for them. My thoughts went to a cousin of mine who had died a few months before. I told Saundra that I had been praying for my cousin for years, and he still died at age 67 from a drug overdose.

My lamenting to my friend included admission that my prayers for my cousin had come and gone. I found myself somewhat disheartened because his slow decline was observable. I asked my friend, “How do we walk out James 5:16b? How does ‘the effectual fervent prayer of the righteous’ get results”?

The first part of James 5:16 states, “Confess your faults one to another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed.” Unintentionally, my questions became a confession that I had not been consistent in prayer for my now deceased cousin. I had become discouraged in praying for him because there was no observable change over the years.

As our conversation lengthened, we discussed the discipline of prayer and expectancy, and our responsibility to trust God for results. Being seminary graduates we automatically began to review Jesus as our model for prayer.

We pondered, “What gets in the way of hearing from God? How do we foster a more disciplined, focused prayer life?”

The Bible informs us that Jesus consistently lived in prayerful conversation with the Father. He completely humbled Himself before God with prayer and fasting before beginning His public ministry. The light bulb came on for us! As we began to look through multiple Hebrew Scriptures and pull out notes from our seminary days, the difference became clear.

At times, we had “fasted” with and for others regarding a particular need within families and communities. However, we began to see that Biblical fasting and prayer with our lives yielded to God is completely different from us setting the agenda for time with God. I said aloud, “Hey wait a minute! I haven’t been fasting, I’ve just been skipping meals!” So, we began our journey of humbling ourselves in fasting and prayer.

In Isaiah 58, God calls a fast to put a stop to wickedness, lift heavy burdens, and for you to break every yoke. This got our attention!

He promises outcomes of such a fast that range from healing and spiritual growth to rebuilding deserted ruins of our cities and restoring streets in which to live safely.

We have been so exhilarated and inspired that we want to invite others to join in discovering the possibilities of how God fulfills His word through believers who humble themselves in fasting and prayer.

Fasting in Fayetteville is a 12-week targeted Bible study and community dialogue with the goal of integrating healthy holistic lifestyle choices which are sustainable. This certificate symposium includes community wellness and fitness providers, nutritionists, local farmers, meal-prep restaurant and health store owners. Biblical perspectives will be shared by pastors, rabbis, theologians and participants.

First Baptist Church, located at 201 Anderson Street, is hosting this interactive seminar which will meet in person and by Zoom on Thursdays, beginning June 1 at noon.
Sessions will be recorded and uploaded to the Fasting in Fayetteville YouTube channel. To register, go to www.FastinginFayetteville.org There is no charge for this event.

Editor's note: Saundra Blair, DMin, Ed.D., is a retired college professor and former associate pastor. She is a nutrition and health enthusiast. Denise Merritt, DMin, is a retired Army Chaplain and currently serves as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Fayetteville. She attends First Baptist Church on Anderson Street with her husband, Karl.

Albert Einstein said “The only thing that you absolutely have to know is the location of the library.”

The Paul H. Thompson Library at Fayetteville Technical Community College is not your grandmother’s library. The era of the old library with moldy books and shushing librarians no longer exists. In its place, FTCC has established a new, dynamic facility that certainly does have many books, but also provides new resources to help students meet the challenges of the twenty-first century.

Would you like to build a prototype of your newest invention or create your artistic masterpiece?
If so, you need to visit the makerspace on the first floor of the library. There are 3D printers, computers, graphic design tools, and skilled librarians who will help you turn your dreams into reality. Currently enrolled

FTCC students can create projects in the library makerspace for free.

Do you need a meeting place? FTCC’s library has a variety of study spaces on the first and second floors equipped with white boards, computers, large monitors, comfortable chairs, and friendly librarians who are eager to help you. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the library.

Do you need somewhere to relax on campus? If so, you need to come to the library. You can relax in a plush chair, charge your phone, watch a video, listen to music, and chat with your friends. You can even challenge a stranger to a game of oversized checkers.

Do you need to borrow a human skeleton? If so, you need to visit the second floor of the library where we have replica, anatomically correct, human skeletons. Just tell one of our librarians that you need to borrow a skeleton, and they will loan you a skeleton free to use while in the library.

Do you need answers right now, in the privacy of your own home? If so, you need to visit FTCC’s Paul H. Thompson library website at www.faytechcc.edu/campus-life/library/. The website provides access to thousands of eBooks, newspapers, academic journals, popular magazines and study guides. Many of these resources are not available to the general public. You can even chat with a live librarian every day from 8 a.m. to midnight.

Do you need a working lightsaber? That is too bad. Lightsabers are not real, and you already know that, BUT if anyone ever builds a real lightsaber, it will probably be someone who spent a great deal of time in a library, perhaps even the Paul H. Thompson Library at FTCC.

We invite you to visit the Paul H. Thompson library at the Fayetteville campus of FTCC at 2201 Hull Road or take a virtual tour at www.faytechcc.edu/campus-life/library/.
FTCC is currently registering students for summer and fall classes, so it’s the perfect time to visit the library and discover how the library can enhance your learning experiences at FTCC.

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated’s Epsilon Rho Lambda Chapter and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated’s Gamma Upsilon Zeta Chapter present the 3rd Annual Race At Your Pace 5K Run/Walk June 3 at 8 a.m. at Methodist University.

“The purpose of this event is to bring awareness of premature babies, raise funds for the March of Dimes March for Babies and to impact the communities that we live in,” said Anthony Henderson, Alpha Phi Alpha

Fraternity member and marketing committee member for the event.

“For the last two years we have raised $10,000 so our goal to raise this year is $15,000.”

Henderson added that the funds will be donated to the March of Dimes March for Babies and the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center.

“Premature births are very high and prevalent in people of color,” said Henderson. “As we planned for the race, we found out that many members of both organizations had premature births in their family or they knew someone with a premature baby.”

He added, “For the longest time the March of Dimes March for Babies had a walk in Fayetteville, but they closed the Fayetteville office so we decided to bring it back to impact this area.”
In 2022, the March of Dimes reported that premature births are at an all-time high in the United States. People of color or those who live in impoverished areas are most at risk for premature birth.

Babies born ahead of 37 weeks gestation are at a greater risk of asthma, blindness, deafness and intellectual disabilities.

“The 5K course is a little over three miles and you can normally do it within 25 minutes to one hour depending on your pace because you can walk or run it,” said Henderson. “We also have the one-mile walk and people normally do it in 10 minutes depending on how fast their walking speed is.”

The cost of the event is $40 and participants will receive a T-shirt. Participants are asked to register as soon as possible. Food trucks and a medical health fair will be on site. Virtual runners can register for $45.

“We want to make sure that we are spreading health positivity in our communities,” said Henderson. “Come out and enjoy the event and all of the money goes to the March of Dimes in supporting healthy mothers and healthy babies.”

For more information visit www.19aaa06.org/a2z-fun-run.

The sunnier days and warmer temperatures always have a way of enticing us to go outside and spend time with friends, enjoying wonderful food, drinks and music. Thanks to the Gates Four Summer Concert Series, citizens of Fayetteville and surrounding areas have the chance to enjoy a stellar performance and the wonderful summer weather!

The Concert Series has become more well-known as the local music scene in Fayetteville has grown. This year’s Concert Series consists of five different events and each of them is headlined by a phenomenal band. The series was postponed numerous times due to bad weather last year which resulted in the Concert Series ending in October, 2022. However, if everything runs smoothly this year, the event will end in September.

“The whole concept of the concert series is to create a quality entertainment venue on that side of the county, the Hope Mills area,” said Bill Bowman, publisher, Up & Coming Weekly. Bowman is also one of the people responsible for organizing the concert series.

Are you prepared to travel back in time? Kids in America is a high-energy, power-packed six-piece band that pays homage to the totally tubular 1980s. All genres from this amazing decade are represented on the set list.

Kids in America has been bringing back the groovy vibe of the 80’s since 2017. The tribute band consists of male and female vocals that sing their very own renditions of classics from artists such as Prince, Bon Jovi and Phil Collins.

On June 2, the 1980’s tribute band will perform at Gates Four Golf & Country Club. The event is free to the public. Guests are asked to bring a chair unless they would like to purchase VIP seats and tables which can be bought at www.fayettevilledinnertheatre.com or onsite the day of the event.

“There are so many really good bands going out there this year; it’s just phenomenal,” said Greg Adair, who helps organize the Gates Four Concert Series.

“To be able to have a quality concert in a classy environment like Gates Four is wonderful,” he added. “The bands appreciate the atmosphere
as well.”

Gates Four Golf & Country Club requests that no one brings animals. Food, drinks, water and adult drinks provided by Healy Wholesale will be available for purchase. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., dinner and fellowship starts at 6 p.m., and the band will hit the stage around 7 p.m.

“The whole evening is centered around fun, good music, contributing to the community and giving young artists a chance to be seen,” said Bowman.

Gates Four Golf & Country Club is located at 6775 Irongate Drive in Fayetteville. For more information, visit www.fayettevilledinnertheatre.com/.