After a break from meetings in the month of July, the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners on Aug. 7 discussed the 2024 fiscal year budget, made some appointments and presented a national achievement award.

The board voted unanimously on June 7 to approve the budget. This year, the board presented the budget in a new video format.

“I think it’s a great way to communicate with our citizens about what’s happening with their tax dollars,” said Commissioner Jimmy Keefe.

The video is available on social media and on the county website. For information, go to cumberlandcountync.gov/budget The video explains how the budget is split up and what projects will be funded. This year’s budget totals a bit over $381 million, an increase of about 4% over last year’s budget.

The largest expenditure category is human services, taking up 31% of the budget. This includes staff for the public health, veteran services, social services and child support departments. The second largest category is education, at 27%, followed by public safety, 19%; general government, 18%; cultural and recreation, 3%; and economic and fiscal development, 1%.

The goals of laid out in the budget plan include renovations to the Crown Center; improvements in the Gray’s Creek water and sewer district to address pollution; the design and construction of a homeless support center; expanding capacity of the Ann Street Landfill; and a plan to increase county staff retention.

For public schools, $87.5 million has been designated, an increase of $3.2 million over last year. Additional money is appropriated to hire more school nurses, crossing guards, and resource officers.
Fayetteville Technical Community College is getting $15.5 million in funding this year as well.

Technology award

A national award won by Cumberland County earlier this summer was presented during the Aug. 7 meeting.
The National Association of Counties and the Center for Digital Government awarded Cumberland seventh place in the 250,000-499,990 population category in the Digital Counties Survey last month.

The award highlights the use of digital tools to streamline government services “and apply innovative and emerging technologies to county priorities,” according to the citation. The award was presented to the information technology department.

Cumberland County also received the award in 2016, 2017 and 2019.

Board appointments

The board approved four appointments to county boards:

• Harold Bachman to the Alcoholic Beverage Control board.
• Charlotte Davis and Jeffery Brooks to the Cumberland County Animal Services board.
• Michelle Williams to the Fayetteville Area Convention and Visitors Bureau board of directors.

The meeting then went into a closed session.

City and state officials gathered Aug. 8 to celebrate the completion of construction and upcoming opening of the Day Resource Center for the homeless.

The facility includes a wide array of features and services, including showers and laundry facilities; a kitchen for lunch service; office space for social workers and case managers; a family and children’s room; medical offices for preventative care and health services; a quiet room for meditation and rest; and space for people to gather to escape extreme heat or cold.

“My hope is that this project functions as a catalyst for our community to approach homelessness holistically,” said Fayetteville City Manager Douglas J. Hewett.

He spoke about how the project has been a long time coming and a part of the city’s 10-year plan to address homelessness.
The total cost was just under $7 million, which was fully funded by grants through the North Carolina Office of Recovery and Resiliency and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Both grants were awarded to address the effects of natural disasters such as Hurricane Matthew, which can exacerbate homelessness.

“It’s these kinds of projects that really help us feel like we are making an impact with the federal dollars that have been entrusted to our state,” said Tracy Colores, community development director of the North Carolina Office of Recovery and Resiliency.

According to Colores, the project had the largest budget for his office in the state.
Instead of running the facility themselves, city officials decided to entrust it to community organizations and picked Cumberland HealthNet to run its day-to-day operations.

“So this facility is going to be a one-stop shop for those that are experiencing homelessness so they can come to one place instead of having to go all over the city to get resources,” said Shelly Hudson, executive director of Cumberland HealthNet.

Community organizations will be able to serve meals, provide health care and counseling, and connect homeless people with resources.
The Day Resource Center is only a half mile, or about a 12-minute walk, from the location of a planned 150-plus-bed transitional housing facility. Fayetteville City Council voted unanimously on Aug. 7 to convert the Nights Inn on South Eastern Boulevard into transitional housing. [See article on page 10]

City Council member Shakeyla Ingram of District 2 said the combination of the two projects is “positioning (the city) to move forward in the right direction.”
Mayor Mitch Colvin spoke about how the day center shows the progress the city is making to combat homelessness.

“Let us remember that this is not the end of a journey but the beginning of a new chapter in our ongoing commitment to fostering a more just and compassionate city,” said Colvin.

HealthNet has said the day center is scheduled to open Aug. 21.

The Fayetteville Public Works Commission recognized over 200 PWC employees Aug. 9 for their hard work and dedication as the front line of environmental defense during PWC’s inaugural Wastewater Professional’s Day.

“Our employees are the heart of Fayetteville PWC,” said Ronna Rowe Garrett, PWC Chair.

“Wastewater professionals work hard, are passionate and committed in the critical work they do, and we are proud to recognize their efforts. I am grateful for their contributions, day in and day out. Their conscientious regulation and operation of our treatment facilities and collection systems help prevent contamination and other avoidable incidents that could threaten the health and well-being of Fayetteville, Cumberland County residents and our waterways.”

PWC’s Water Resources division is responsible for ensuring sewer mains flow freely and wastewater is properly treated before being returned to the Cape Fear River.

There are 209 PWC wastewater professionals who work around the clock at PWC and dedicate their careers to keeping treated wastewater clean and free of substances harmful to both humans and the environment.
PWC maintains more than 1,300 miles of sewer mains, 78 sanitary sewer lift stations over 32 thousand Sanitary Sewer Manholes.

PWC’s two water reclamation facilities treat more than nine billion gallons of wastewater a year and return it to the Cape Fear River cleaner than what we take in for drinking water.

“Our wastewater workers are dedicated professionals working in our treatment facilities, the lab, or out in the field. They work around the clock to protect the ecological health of Fayetteville's waterways, including the Cape Fear River,” said Misty Manning, interim Chief Operations Officer for PWC’s Water Resources Division.

“From being called out in the middle of the night to work in undesirable conditions clearing sewer mains clogged by grease and wipes, to working around the clock restoring essential services during and after storms, they protect our environment and PWC customers from the effects of main breaks and sanitary sewer overflows.”

PWC’s Wastewater Professional’s Day is the first-known appreciation day in the Wastewater Industry and will be observed at PWC the second Wednesday of August in the years ahead.

Today we dive back into the wonderful world of country music. As a fine leisure service of this column, I listen to country music so you don’t have to.

One can learn much pondering country music. Our old friend Franz Kafka was kind of a philosopher/song writer in his own right. If he had been born in 1960 and played a guitar, he could have produced many country hits.

Much country music deals with disappointment, drinking and depression which is Kafka Land. For example, Franz once wrote: “Some deny the misery by pointing at the sun, he denies the sun by pointing at the misery.” That could have been a top ten hit on the Billboard Country Chart if Franz had sung it backed up by Jason Aldean’s band.

Unfortunately, Franz is not available to write country songs. Like Donald Rumsfeld almost said: “We go to country music with the songs we have, not the songs we want.”

Accordingly, let us begin by dividing country music into segments. Most country songs involve the misery of lost loves so we will start there.
Lost Love: There is a lot of cheating going on out yonder. A fed-up lady person sings: “All the Ajax in the world ain’t gonna clean your dirty laundry.” A gentleman who lost in love sings: “I had a couple of beers with one of my friends/ Told him just how our story ends/ Did all I could to make it work/ But you drug my heart through the Alabama dirt.”

Hope springs eternal as a jilted guy sings to a jilted lady: “You left your tears on the jukebox/ And they got mixed with mine/ Let’s fall to pieces together/ In each other’s arms.”
Tammy Wynette once sang about what lost love leads to when “Our D-I-V-O-R-C-E became final today.”

A divorced gentleman laments that in his divorce: “She got the gold mine/ I got the shaft/ They split everything down the middle/ And gave her the bigger half.”

A divorced lady who has moved on sings: “Baby, you’re just water under the bridges I burned.” Another chimes in: “If we can’t get along/ We ought to be apart/ I wonder where you got that cold, cold heart.”

A fellow with a gal with a wandering eye laments: “Sometimes she runs and I got to chase her/ Damn her black heart and her pretty red neck.”
No problem in Country Music Land can’t be made worse by pouring alcohol on it. A lost soul sings: “She’s feeling single/ I’m drinking doubles.” A disgusted lady sings: “Happily ever, Never/ You’re never gonna grow up.”

Legal Trouble: The path of true love can run afoul of the law. A new couple parks in a restricted area which comes to the attention of the police. Keith Urban tells the story: “We drove right past the no trespassing sign/ We sat on the tailgate and watched planes take off/ That’s when the cops came pulling up/… But there was something ‘bout the way the blue lights were shining/ Bringing out the freedom in your eyes/ I fell in love in the back of a cop car.” Love can come to anyone, anywhere, even in the back of a cop car.

Another singer moans about his bad choices in life: “Jesus and Momma always loved me/ Even when the Devil took control.” As Geraldine once said: “The Devil made me do it.”

Happy Love: Not all country songs involve heartache. Love occasionally triumphs. A gentleman deeply in love sings: “She’s got pretty legs that go up to Heaven every time.”
For a couple who are remaining home for the evening, the man sings: “Ain’t nothing as sweet/ Ain’t nothing as strong/ As you and me/ And whiskey all night long.” She responds coyly to him singing: “It’s only 10:30/ And you’re already talking dirty.”

Another less frisky couple are out for a classy night on the town; the man sings: “We be fancy like Applebee’s on a date night/ Got that Bourbon Street steak with the Oreo shake/ Get some whipped cream on top too/ Two straws, one check, girl, I got you/ That how we do fancy like.”

Another fellow is much in love with his lady who is: “A dynamite kisser/ Country as a turnip green/ She’s got her Daddy’s money/ Her Mama’s good looks/ And look who is looking at me.” A happily married man sings: “She is the Queen of my double wide trailer/ With the polyester curtains and the redwood deck.”

Acceptance of Loss: Ultimately some inhabitants of Country Music Land reach the 5th Stage of Grief — Acceptance.
One fellow sings: “Yesterday’s jealous man is today’s lonely fool.” Another guy sings: “She’s crazy for leaving/ I told her so/ But you can’t stop a woman when she’s out of control.”

So, what have we learned today? To quote the Rolling Stones: “You can’t always get what you want/ But if you try sometime/ You get what you need.”

I know you may find this news depressing, but we’re only five months away from the first votes in the 2024 presidential election.

Our current primary system is absurd. The contests start way too early. And their location is unfair to large swaths of American voters. But that doesn’t mean the system ought to be radically changed.
Don’t get me wrong. I favor reforming the system, along lines to be discussed below. It’s just that traditions, even fairly new ones, deserve some thoughtful deference.

In particular, I think there is still a good case for beginning the presidential-nomination process in less-populated states like Iowa and New Hampshire.

“Like” is not the same as “such as,” of course. While I think Iowa and New Hampshire aren’t necessarily bad places to hold early contests, they shouldn’t enjoy a permanent status as electoral gatekeepers.
Nor is it sufficient, as has now been accomplished, to bring in Nevada from the southwest and South Carolina from the south to balance things out. They still come later,
giving Iowa and New Hampshire excessive deference.

I also think that moving populous Michigan up to the fourth position (on Feb. 27) was unwise, as was making California, Texas, and our own North Carolina part of a Gargantuan Tuesday set of primaries on March 5.

Less-populous states allow a larger number of candidates to be viable. They don’t require as much campaign cash to reach voters via expensive broadcast markets. Mail, earned media, online tools, endorsements, and personal outreach remain viable tactics in them. Also, voters in smaller states are more likely to appreciate the national spotlight and take their political power seriously, while those in larger states are apt to see national media coverage and campaign swings as more routine and less exciting.

To get back to the problem, however, the Iowa and New Hampshire stranglehold on the process needs to be broken.

Don’t count on prominent national politicians to make reform a high priority, as too many of them consider themselves to be future presidential aspirants and thus don’t want to alienate local politicians and voters in the two states, just in case a reform effort falls short.

Perhaps retired politicians could make primary-process reform an early cause, to be formulated and promoted by a diverse panel of current officeholders, civic and business leaders and political scientists.
My preference would be a process that looks something like this. Take the 20 states with populations between 4.5 million and 1 million (there is such a thing as too sparsely populated a state to play effectively in this game — I’m looking at you, Wyoming and Vermont).

Two years before each election cycle, randomly place them on one of five election days to stretch between early February and early April. Each date, in other words, will feature four primaries or caucuses.
Such an arrangement would mean you keep the same states voting early every four years, which is good for building strong party networks and experienced primary/caucus voters, without giving any state a permanent primacy in the schedule.

Some have argued either that such a series of early votes ought to be concentrated in a particular region, to make it easier for candidates to campaign and create a sort of regional “voice,” or be carefully balanced so that there are always states voting in multiple regions.

I used to like the regional-primary idea, but now I think it would be best to distribute the states randomly each time. That reduces potential conflict, it seems to me, and introduces a healthy dose of unpredictability.

Would we get better presidential nominees if we gave the likes of Arkansas, Connecticut, Utah, Oregon, Oklahoma and New Mexico the opportunity to go first in the balloting? I don’t know.

I do know that the current process is rightfully resented, but that moving to early primaries by large states or regional blocs isn’t the right answer. Let’s stay small, but mix things up a bit.

Editor's note: John Hood is a John Locke Foundation board member. His latest books, Mountain Folk and Forest Folk, combine epic fantasy with early American history (FolkloreCycle.com).

Money can be considered a taboo topic of conversation in some circles. As a rule of thumb, you do not speak about salaries, debt or the cost of your most recent vacation with friends or family, do you? We understand that, but when it comes to selling a business, we need to talk about money, specifically cash.

What is cash and how does it affect your business when you are selling it?

When you are selling a business, there are many variables you should consider — whether directly or indirectly involved with the sale.

For one, what happens to cash when you sell a business? That is a great question — it might be difficult to understand what assets are and are not relevant at this stage.

The simple answer? Most of the time, cash does NOT need to be an asset of the business at the time of a sale. The business owner should retain all cash (or cash equivalents) after the sale.

Surprisingly to many, this includes bonds, petty cash, money in bank accounts, etc.

But, why is cash not an asset? The main reason why cash should not be treated as an operating asset during a sale is that the buyer usually will have their estimates of working capital.
Most often the cash in pass-through entities like S Corporations or LLCs was generated through profits, which the owner already paid taxes on. Or the cash could be due to monies that were borrowed by the company.

Therefore, when selling a business, the seller either feels they“own the cash” or need to pay it back. For these reasons, cash most often remains with the seller.

On the other hand, sometimes cash could be a key component of working capital requirements in certain business models.
Businesses that require cash on hand, like pawn shops, ATM businesses or check cashing stores. Especially in the case where there are customer deposits or warranty issues like catering/event facilities or contractors.

In conclusion, 99% of the time, the cash in the bank is for the seller to keep. And that should be considered by sellers as part of their proceeds of sale when planning on how much the sellers will net after the closing costs and taxes that affect the sale.

The above gets more complicated depending on the structure of your business and the deal you are contemplating. It is important to understand the future income and tax implications. To gain a better understanding of how cash is handled in your potential business sale transaction, contact a business broker to assist with the sale of your buisness.

Editor's note: Ashley Kelsey is a Business Broker at Transworld Business Advisors of Eastern North Carolina. She can be reached at 910-302-6447 or email akelsey@tworld.com.

More American families are borrowing for college. At the same time, merit aid and the use of personal income and savings is falling.

That’s according to an annual College Ave Student Loans survey of college students at four-year universities, conducted with Barnes & Noble College Insights. The survey also found college affordability is top-of-mind for the majority of students (57%). Despite financial concerns, 81% of students report that a college degree is crucial for their future.

“The mix of methods that families use to pay for college has shifted, however one thing remains consistent: students and families value the investment in higher education,” says Angela Colatriano, chief marketing officer of College Ave.

To borrow smart for college this fall, consider these tips and insights:

Exhaust All Options

Before turning to private student loans, first exhaust other sources of financial aid. Complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, known as FAFSA, to be considered for grants, scholarships, work-study programs and federal student loans.

If your selected school is one of the 400 institutions that requires the CSS profile, submit that too to qualify for institutional aid.

Finally, search for private scholarships offered by companies and non-profit organizations. One easy one to apply for is the College Ave $1,000 monthly scholarship sweepstakes.
If you do need to borrow, turn to federal student loans in the student’s name first, which generally offer the lowest rates and come with additional benefits. They don’t depend on credit scores, and offer longer deferments and forbearances, income-driven repayment plans and student loan forgiveness.

Private Student Loans

Federal student loans have annual and aggregate loan limits. If you find yourself needing to borrow parent or private loans to cover remaining costs, consider these factors:

• •Costs: Compare costs of different loans by looking at the actual interest rate you’ll be charged, not the lowest advertised rate. Understand the difference between variable and fixed interest rates, and be aware of any fees and available discounts, such as those offered for using autopay.
• Cosigners: A creditworthy cosigner doesn’t just increase the odds of loan approval, even if the student can qualify on their own; cosigning may yield a lower interest rate, reducing the overall cost of the loan.
• Total Debt: Borrow only what you need. With private loans, you can usually borrow up to the total cost of attendance. However, borrowing less than the maximum can help you save over time.
  A simple rule of thumb you can use to determine how much student loan debt you can afford: If total student loan debt at graduation, including federal and private loans, is less than the student’s annual starting salary, you can likely repay the loans in 10 years or less.
• Repayment: Look for repayment flexibility to match your needs. For example, College Ave Student Loans offers 5-, 8-, 10- and 15-year repayment options, along with the choice of deferring payments until after graduation or beginning payments right away. No matter what option you select, understand the terms.

For more resources, including an online student loan calculator, and to learn more about paying for college, visit www.CollegeAve.com

Private loans for college can play an important role in financing your education. By researching your financial aid options, applying for scholarships and comparing private student loan options, you can minimize college costs, so you can better manage your finances after you graduate.

For more information about applying for aid using the FAFSA, visit https://studentaid.gov/

Do you ever feel alone? Are you worried about your future? Would you like to build a better life for yourself and the people you love?

If so, the Y.E.S. (You + Effort = Success) program at Fayetteville Technical Community College might be right for you.

The Y.E.S. program supports male students by helping them achieve their educational, personal and professional objectives.

The program achieves these objectives by treating each student as a unique individual. Students meet with mentors who help them design an innovative blend of academic enhancement, character development and leadership training that is tailored to the needs of each student.

Every student in the program enjoys numerous benefits including career coaching, academic workshops, team-building events, scholarships, field trips, access to the program’s lounge on campus, and much more.
Students in the FTCC Y.E.S. program enjoy unique opportunities to escape the classroom and take trips that are both fun and educational. For example, Y.E.S. program students recently partnered with other students from FTCC and from Fayetteville State University to attend the Student Leadership Conference in Selma, Alabama. The five-day trip also included visits to the Jubilee Festival as well as the Inter-generational Hip-Hop Summit.

“I had very high expectations, and it didn’t disappoint,” FTCC student Joshua Farley said. “We went to different museums, and we saw just how big of an impact they made back then, especially our ancestors and what they went through.”

The Selma Trip is just one example of activities available to Y.E.S. program students. Those interested in learnign more about the trip can visit https://www.faytechcc.edu/blog/ftcc-students-connect-real-world-with-classroom-lessons-on-selma-trip/

Jesse Watts, an FTCC student and Y.E.S. participant shared his thoughts about the program: “The Y.E.S. initiative has been a key component in my success at Fayetteville Technical Community College. It has allowed me to fellowship and connect with other male minorities who are looking to better themselves both academically and professionally. It has afforded me the opportunity to be able to exchange ideas or words of encouragement which help groom and mentor other minority males for success.”

Watts is now serving as a mentor in the program.

“Being a mentor for Y.E.S. initiative has been rewarding. I have been able to ensure other young minority men go on to continue their journeys academically at four-year universities or professionally by entering into the workforce.”

Watts said the program is a way to help students reach their goals.

“The Y.E.S. initiative is a program well suited for all young minority males.” he said. “The culture of encouragement and challenge results in growth and overall success.”

The Y.E.S. program is open to all male students at FTCC. Participation in the program and all program activities are available free of charge.

In our society, men often feel pressured to hide their emotions and bear their pain in silence.

YMUS (You, Me, and Us), founded by Tony U. Brown, offers a range of resources and programs to address these pressures and enhance mental health and well-being. From therapy sessions to workshops on self-care and stress management, YMUS equips men with the tools they need to navigate their emotions and build resilience.

The initiative aims to address men’s mental health challenges by providing a safe space where they can openly express themselves without fear of judgment or ridicule. Beyond these walls, vulnerability is not seen as a weakness but as a strength, a powerful tool for personal growth and understanding. YMUS brings together men from diverse backgrounds in supportive circles.

Research consistently highlights the mental health challenges faced by men, who may feel trapped and devoid of outlets for their pain. YMUS seeks to break this cycle by creating an environment where emotional release is celebrated and support is available.

Since its inception, YMUS has witnessed incredible transformations in the lives of its participants. Men who have felt isolated and burdened by their pain have found comfort and understanding within this community. YMUS offers a glimmer of hope in the darkness.

YMUS paves the way for a more compassionate and understanding world by combating the stigma surrounding men’s mental health.

On Aug. 17, YMUS will make available “A Solace Oasis,” a film that showcases the transformative power of the organization and reminds us of the importance of open dialogue and support for men’s mental health. The film can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BUICaXOPoFw

In the emotionally charged and uplifting film, “A Solace Oasis,” we witness the incredible impact of YMUS. This poignant story follows a group of men who have long felt isolated and burdened by their pain, society’s expectations weighing heavily on their shoulders.

Through sharing their stories and embracing vulnerability, they begin a healing journey that not only impacts their own well-being but also inspires others to do the same. This ripple effect extends beyond the confines of YMUS, as the men forge healthier relationships, mend fractured families, and contribute to a more compassionate and understanding society.

“A Solace Oasis” is a reminder that vulnerability is an essential part of being human. It shines a light on the importance of open dialogue and support for men’s mental health, challenging societal norms and dismantling the harmful stigma surrounding it.

As the film reaches its powerful and hopeful conclusion, we are left with a glimmer of hope in the darkness, knowing that the YMUS community and its mission will continue to break the chains of silence and advocate for emotional well-being for all.

Editor's note: Carrie Jackson is the Marketing Director for Women's View Magazine.

Children across the world have come to love Bluey Heeler, the blue, television cartoon dog with an Australian accent, and her entire family. Bluey and the rest of the Heeler family aren’t just for the kids though; the Emmy award-winning children’s series has long been lauded by parents as highly relatable.

Now, Fayetteville families can enjoy a front row seat to the Heelers’ life like never before. On Aug. 17, “Bluey’s Big Play the Stage Show” will go live on stage at the Crown Theatre with larger-than-life sized puppets, dialogue by the real actors behind the television show, and brand new music from award-winning Bluey composer, Joff Bush.

You might say that “Bluey’s Big Play The Stage Show” brings everything families love about the television series brought to the stage. The stage show was even written by the TV show’s creator, Joe Brumm.
Brumm has taken moments from his own family and turned them into “Bluey” and it shows. The show has become a global phenomenon and is essential viewing in so many homes with children.

As with the TV show, “Bluey’s Big Play The Stage Show” focuses on the Heeler’s everyday life. The plot involves Bluey and her little sister Bingo trying to convince their dad, Bandit, to abandon his plans for a lazy Sunday afternoon and play with them.

Also like the TV show, “Bluey’s Big Play” will also impact audiences with meaningful lessons about being a family. Parents can take home with them a valuable message about quality time with their kids, while kids can learn about being a good sibling.

In an email to the Los Angeles Times, Brumm wrote about the show, “It’s about a family that loves each other. It reminds you of how funny and weird kids are and how hard but rewarding parenting them is. It comes from a very real place. It’s just my life with my kids, in dog form.”

The experience for Fayetteville Bluey fans is sure to be a fun one, with interactive audience participation such as a live game of “keepy uppy” that takes place after curtain call and a VIP show add-on that allows attendees to meet and get a photograph with a Bluey character.

While a typical episode of “Bluey” is around seven minutes long, “Bluey’s Big Play” is around 50 minutes long, not including the VIP experience.

The excitement is growing for both kids and their parents with one dad commenting on a Facebook post about the play, “I might be more excited than she is!” A mom tagged a friend saying, “Even if the kids don’t want to go, can we go see this together?”

It’s clear that the chance to see the world’s favorite dog family is one that Fayetteville doesn’t want to miss!
Tickets to the show are almost sold out, but the few that are left can be purchased at the Crown Box Office, the Fort Liberty Leisure Travel Office, or online at www.Ticketmaster.com.

Editor's note: Madeleine Eversole is the Director of Marketing for the Crown Complex.

All are invited to volunteer to join the United Way of Cumberland County on Aug. 24 for an event that will make a real difference in the lives of those in need.

The United Way of Cumberland County’s Annual Campaign Kickoff/Meal Packing Event will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Crown Complex, located at 960 Coliseum Drive in Fayetteville.

The United Way partners with local nonprofit organizations to help fund programs that address various needs locally, including basic critical needs. The Annual Meal Packing Event addresses one of those critical needs by feeding the hungry in our local community.

Last year the United Way of Cumberland County packed 35,000 meal packets in two hours with about 300 volunteers and then donated them to the Fayetteville Urban Ministry and Catholic Charities.
The goal for this year is to pack 60,000 meal packets, and they need support from local volunteers to make this happen.

To sign up and volunteer for this event, visit https://www.unitedway-cc.org/campaign-kickoff-2023.html

Volunteers can also contact Roshelle Colvin at 910-483-1179 ext. 228 or via development@unitedway-cc.org with questions.

If you cannot volunteer for the meal packing event on Aug. 24 but still want to help, there are other ways to particiapte. You can donate by going to the website at https://www.unitedway-cc.org/ or mail in a donation or drop it off at their office at 222 Maiden Lane, Fayetteville, NC 28311.

The United Way began in 1887 when a Denver woman, a priest, two ministers, and a rabbi teamed up to make Denver a better place. Together they created an organization that collected funds and coordinated services to help local charities and provided relief services in Denver. They raised $21,700 that year, and in today’s dollar that is around $700,000. What they started would become United Way.

Now United Way’s reach is global by helping and working with others in 37 countries and territories.

The United Way of Cumberland County was established in 1939 by various local organizations united to lay the foundation for the Community Chest in Fayetteville. Then in the 1970’s, the United Fund Board of Directors voted to change the organization’s name to United Way. In 2013 they celebrated 75 years of service in Cumberland County.

United Way believes that together we can unite to help those less fortunate in our local community who do not know where their next meal is coming from.
According to the organization, the United Way of CUmberland COunty invests 100% of contributions back into the community through a vigorous volunteer-led grant review process to determine which programs will be funded.

Each nonprofit is reviewed by a panel to ensure that funds are used in a way to create maximum impact in Cumberland County.

The United Way’s Meal Packing Event on Aug. 24 is not just an event; it is an opportunity to change lives. Whether you can volunteer your time on that day or contribute through donations, your involvement will help them reach their goal of packing 60,000 meal packets for those in need. Remember, every meal packet makes a difference.

Cape Fear Studios Miniature Sculpture and Art Challenge exhibit will be on display through Aug. 22 in the Main Gallery, located at 148 Maxwell Street in Fayetteville.
The exhibit is an interesting and unique collection of mini artworks from local artists.
The exhibit was judged by local professional artist Leslie Pearson, who selected the two Best of Show Awards — one for 3D sculpture and one for 2D art.

Amber Tyler-Elliott was awarded Best of Show 2D for her Intaglio (print making) “Air Potato Leaf Beetle.” Austin Sheppard was awarded Best of Show 3D for his cast bronze, found object piece “Self-Contained Man.”

“I really appreciated the opportunity to jury this miniature exhibition,” Pearson said.

“As someone who prefers to work on a larger scale, it’s inspiring to see the quiet restraint that can be achieved in miniature,” she said. “Each painting and sculpture require the viewer to get up close and personal with the work.”

Sheppard’s piece was the winner of the 3-D category.

“I was drawn to the small figure of a man weighted by chains. A powerful visual that will no doubt resonate with many people.”

“Amber Tyler-Elliott, the 2-D winner’s postage-stamp sized print of an Air Potato Leaf Beetle, an invasive species, is the perfect example of how an artist can speak volumes within the confines of a small space — this beetle alters plant communities by displacing native species, and changing community structure,” Pearson said.w

“Perhaps this is a commentary on our current grappling with AI or other perceived threats. Overall, the exhibition is a treat for Fayetteville to enjoy.”

Pearson is a multimedia artist who pursues art as a studio artist, community arts advocate and educator. In 1998, Pearson earned a bachelor’s degree in Fine Art from Southeast Missouri State University.

She was the Assistant Director of the Arts Council of Southeast Missouri and co-curator of Gallery 100 and the Lorimier Gallery in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. In 2000, she earned a master’s degree in Museum Studies at Newcastle University in England and completed an internship at the Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art in Sunderland, United Kingdom.

In 2011, she earned an Master of Fine Arts in Textile Design at East Carolina University’s School of Art and Design in Greenville, North Carolina.
Pearson has taught at various colleges and universities and served on the Board of Trustees at the Arts Council of Fayetteville Cumberland County, and on the Board of Directors for the Surface Design Association.
Pearson exhibits her work nationally and internationally.

For more information on the Miniature Sculpture and Art Challenge exhibit, visit www.capefearstudios.com or call 910-433-2986.

The Cumberland Community Foundation will host a celebratory luncheon with their donors and program organizers that are integral to the Summertime Kids program on Aug. 17 at noon. Kimmi Nettles, Summertime Kids Program Manager, explained more about the celebration and program.

For over 20 years the staff and volunteers of the Summertime Kids nonprofit programs have gathered to celebrate the programs, collaborate and share ideas and resources.

This event is not a fundraiser. It is an invitation only event for the Summertime Kids programs and the donors who provided the funding.

“It’s a special way to show appreciation to the nonprofits for their efforts,” said Nettles, CCF Program Manager since 2007. This year’s celebration is a luncheon.

Nettles says these programs help students obtain social skills including time management, initiating action in new situations, self-confidence, task leadership and interpersonal skills. Nettles said these things have always been important for children and youth but even more today with the rise in social media platforms that have replaced face-to-face interactions, outside play, interpersonal skills and real-life relationships.

“We welcome two representatives from each organization to attend. We also invite the generous donors to the STK program, those that have founded endowments that benefit the STK program as well as our board of directors,” she said. “Those in attendance enjoy lunch while hearing the STK grantees share heartwarming stories of the highs and lows of their summer programming.”

It is an end-of-summer report and celebration of impact for children. Nettles said there are always happy tears when grantees share stories like how a child overcame a fear by touching a tadpole at Cape Fear Botanical Garden, received a book of their very own from the Cumberland County Public Library, made a friend for life at Camp Rockfish or simply had the best summer ever!

The programs funded provide opportunities for local children and youth, regardless of their financial status. Children learn new skills such as archery, fishing, acting, swimming and golf. Some programs enhance learning through reading and tutoring.

Nettles said the benefits of summer camp include socializing, self-esteem, self-regulation, friendship building, screen-free time, connection to nature, increasing exercise, independence and resiliency, lifelong skills, learning personal growth and creating happy memories.

Every summer since its inception in 1992, over 1,000 children and youth have participated in Summertime Kids programs funded by Cumberland Community Foundation.

“The STK program provides quality programming that simply lets kids be kids,” said Nettles.

This year, there were 18 organizations that are supported by the Summertime Kids programs. The STK program ends the first week of August or at the end of the last camp of the participating organizations.
Most of the youth are 1st through 12th graders. Nettles added that there are programs on the list that accepts youth at the age of five.

The Vision Resource Center, Fayetteville Urban Ministry and Cape Fear Regional Theatre are a few nonprofits participating in the program.

There’s nothing like cooking food for loved ones and being able to brag about your ingredients being from a local grower. Living in the south or even just having an older relative that loves to cook, you’re more than likely to know someone that was raised on a farm.

Growing up in the country, people are used to getting their produce a few different ways. They may grow their own produce themselves. Others may shop at local stores who buy from local farmers. Some are going to farmers markets and buying directly from the farmer who grew the produce. Some may even have relatives that still freeze their peas, butter beans and corn for different seasons or buy fruits like peaches and strawberries by the boxes to make jellies and jams.

This year, Congress recognized the vital role farmers markets play in local economies and their exponential growth nationwide by designating August 6 to 12 as National Farmers Markets Week.

According to farmersmarketcoalition.org, “A farmers market is a public and recurring assembly of farmers or their representatives selling the food that they produced directly to consumers. Farmers markets facilitate personal connections and bonds of mutual benefits between farmers, shoppers and communities.”

Shopping locally at farmers markets is great for the community in different ways. The experience of being around fresh produce that you know was grown a driving distance away is a great feeling. With the world still recovering from a pandemic, people are taking advantage of being outside and enjoying buying local goods. People are also being a little more health conscious, wanting to eat fresher foods and having the security in knowing where their food is coming from.

Getting food from your local farmers markets is almost a night and day difference from shopping at grocery stores when it comes to quality, pricing, taste and sometimes even color and size.
There are a few different types of farmers markets that you could attend to find your unique and natural foods. There are reoccurring farmers markets that happen on weekends, or maybe once a week on a Saturday.

With these markets you’re more than likely getting the food directly from the farmer that grows it. There are also brick-and-mortar markets that buy from a combination of local distributors and farmers in their region, to keep the produce as fresh and local as possible. These places can be open year-round, but still only sell what’s in season and what’s being grown from their farmers. If you’re lucky and live in the right area, you might be able to catch a farmer on the corner of a street selling things like watermelons and peaches during the summer. You could even stumble upon a farm in your community that lets you pick strawberries and other fruits growing that season.

Fayetteville is home to two well-known brick-and-mortar farmers markets. Pate’s Farm Market and T & T Farmers Market have been serving the community for well over 20 years each. At these locations you can buy fruits and vegetables that are in season. They’re also both home to a variety of custom and local sauces, jellies and jams that you can’t find at your average grocery store.

Speaking with the workers of these markets, they find it most satisfying greeting their regulars and knowing their relationships with their growers and farmers is genuine.

Candice Gowdy, manager of T & T Farmers Market off Cumberland Road says, “It’s nice to see you helping a family, knowing they’re helping you. It’s a beautiful circle to see going around.”

Fayetteville has erupted over the last couple of years with local outdoor farmers markets like City Market at the Fayetteville History Museum held on Saturdays downtown off Franklin Street and the Dirtbag Ale’s Market out in Hope Mills held on Sundays. There’s even a Sandhill’s Farmers & Heritage Market held in Spring Lake every Saturday. These markets sell everything from candles, hot sauces, plants to seafood, and everything in between. These local gatherings have been beneficial to small businesses in the community, allowing people to experience homemade and homegrown goods.

A major difference between the produce you’ll find at grocery stores and farmers markets is the chemicals used to preserve the produce and the distance the produce travels to get to consumers. If you buy an apple from Walmart or Food Lion, chances are they had to travel hundreds of miles and through at least one or two factories before you bring it home and put it in your refrigerator.

When these bigger companies buy from larger distributors around the country, and sometimes the world, the produce may have to be prepicked earlier, so it doesn’t ripen too quickly through the traveling process.

The produce also must be sprayed with different chemicals and pesticides to sustain freshness, especially if it’s not in season in the area. That can alter how your food tastes and how healthy it is.

There is also a guarantee in knowing who your money is going to as a consumer.

Purchasing from a local store, market or farmer allows you to keep that money in your community knowing you’re helping the people that live there. The money either stays in your city or even when taxed stays in your state, providing direct benefits to your community.

Granted, there is and always will be a need for grocery stores. Society needs these stores that provide all basic necessities year-round. They also offer jobs and careers to local people, which are fundamental to every community. Though these things are true, it’s also important to consider where you buy certain products, especially during certain seasons.

During National Farmers Markets Week, don’t forget to visit the local markets here in Fayetteville that are happening during the weekends but even the year-round locations that offer fresh and seasonal produce every day during the week.

For more information on T & T Farmers Market visit https://www.loc8nearme.com/north-carolina/fayetteville/t-and-t-farmers-market/6383804/

“I still got an 18-year-old heart,” Mike Edwards laughs.

Edwards, 69, jokes about being the eldest member of two bands. He plays the guitar with Spank and Beggars Banquet, a Rolling Stones tribute band. The group name comes from the title of a Stones album.

Both of those bands will hit the lineup for the upcoming Rock’n On The River concert series happening on Aug. 18 from 6 to 10 p.m.
Since both of his bands are playing that night, that means Edwards will be on stage playing for at least three and a half hours. When asked if that amount of time makes him nervous, Edwards just laughs.

“No, I can do it. I’ve been playing music a long time.”

Spank will take the stage around 6 p.m. and play for about 90 minutes. The band has five members in total. Beggars Banquet has a larger ensemble of people with nine members. They’ll play for a total of two hours that night starting around 8 p.m.

“That Stones show is like a stadium level Stones show,” Edwards says.

He seems pretty excited about the amount of coordination and talent that is within the members of the band. The show, he says again, will be a pretty “faithful” performance of the Rolling Stones. There will be many musical instruments present, even a performance with a cello.
Originally from Fayetteville, Edwards ended up in Raleigh as a production supervisor at a performing arts center, of which he retired from about four years ago.

“Retirement is the bomb,” he said laughing.

Edwards joined Beggars Banquet a few years back after one of the members saw him play around the Raleigh area a lot and the band had an opening for a guitar player.

Edwards describes himself and the band as a whole as fortunate having the caliber of the musicians in Beggars Banquet. And the set list of course is just the Stones.

As for Spank, they play what the band members like to call “a rock and soul review.” Spank members say they play anything from Aretha Franklin to Zeppelin. They live where rock‘n’roll meets soul. The band started about nine years ago and plays a couple concerts a month.

All five members of Spank are from the local Cumberland County area including Robert Turner, a keyboardist who plays for Beggars Banquet and Spank like Edwards.

The concert will be held at 1122 Person Street at Deep Creek Outfitters. The concert will be free to the public but there is a $10 fee for parking. The event will be outdoors, family-friendly and concert-goers are welcome to bring chairs and blankets if desired.

No outside food or drink is allowed but there will be food and drinks for sale.

For more information on the Rock’n On The River Series or this particular concert, the event series has a facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100049990406810 or you can email rocknontheriver@gmail.com

Aug. 12 is International Youth Day, a United Nations effort to celebrate youth activists, combat ageism and help bridge gaps between generations working toward the same change.

No matter your age, it’s likely you’ve questioned your ability to make a difference. Research from the global nonprofit Points of Light shows that 73% of people believe that volunteering is more important than ever, yet 66% think they can’t make a big impact in their communities. Activists on the ground prove otherwise.

That’s why Points of Light, which is dedicated to inspiring and equipping people to take action, has recognized thousands of volunteers for their contributions to their communities through The Daily Point of Light Award.

“Points of Light’s research found that Gen Z is the most civically engaged generation to date. Our youth honorees demonstrate that people of all ages can strengthen communities and solve persistent problems,” says Diane Quest, interim CEO, Points of Light.

To inspire you to action this International Youth Day, the organization is sharing the stories of youth honorees, along with three elements from The Points of Light Civic Circle®, a framework for helping individuals get civically engaged:

Volunteer

Nonprofit organizations and NGOs need volunteer power to deliver support to the communities they collaborate with. If you’re an adult wanting to facilitate youth volunteerism, consider organizing a youth-specific event or helping transport the young people in your life to an event.

To find a volunteer opportunity that aligns with your interests and availability, check out Points of Light Engage, a database with hundreds of thousands of in-person and virtual volunteer opportunities.

The power of volunteering is apparent when considering Daily Point of Light Award honoree Nate Buescher, a high schooler who prepares food for a local food pantry and distributes home-cooked meals to tent cities around Chicago. Buescher began fighting food insecurity at age 7 with the Honeycomb Project. Today, he mentors younger volunteers while maintaining his own service projects.

Voice

The youth voice is vital, pointing us to which concerns are most important to future world leaders and helping broaden perspectives. Use your voice to advocate for causes you care about by posting on social media, attending a rally or contacting a government leader.

Adults can amplify youth voices by sharing with their networks, or organizing forums for youth to be seen and heard.
Seventeen-year-old Daily Point of Light Award honoree Maanit Goel used his voice when organizing a rally of fellow activists on the Washington State Capitol steps to support legislation protecting the Chinook salmon and orca populations. He also regularly addresses state legislators, and travels statewide to speak to K-12 students about environmental issues.

Listen and Learn

Social justice and environmental issues are nuanced, involving many people with different perspectives shaped by their own experiences. Listening and learning is one way to honor others’ lived experiences and get a fuller scope of an issue.

Young people can commit to thoroughly researching causes they care about, talking to those working toward solutions and holding space for those impacted. Adults can connect with the young people in their lives, inviting dialogue that allows for sharing different perspectives and finding common ground.

These are the driving ideas behind the work of high schooler Kristie To, who became a leading force in Asian American racial justice when she founded Hearts Against Hate. Among the initiatives of her nonprofit is distributing Asian history and Asian American Pacific Islander civil rights curriculum to children.

“Cultural sensitivity starts with exposure, and that’s what we’re trying to do with these elementary schoolers,” says To.

To learn about other avenues for social engagement, check out the Points of Light Civic Circle by visiting pointsoflight.org/civic-circle

“There are many formal channels for civic engagement, but simple actions make a difference too,” says Quest. “Whether it’s carrying groceries in for a neighbor or donating books to the library, the important thing is to get started when you see a need in your community.”

Two years ago I introduced myself to the voters of Fayetteville when I ran for City Council District 5 on the platform of combating homelessness, improving our police department, and promoting accountability among elected officials though town hall meetings.

I am proud to announce that I am doubling down on that winning message by running again to be Fayetteville’s elected representative for District 5. Voters will remember that I am a local small business owner who is invested in Fayetteville.

I attended Pine Forest High School and served my country in the United States Navy for 23 years, including in the Vietnam War. I now live in historic Haymount with my beautiful wife, Dixie, whom I met in high school.

During the last election cycle as a first-time candidate, I secured nearly one-third of the vote by running on issues that matter to voters. My campaign succeeded thanks to grassroots messaging and dedicated volunteers.

Despite being outspent 10 to one by a candidate who some say lives in Raleigh, my campaign was successful in connecting with voters and listening to each residents’ concerns about city government. I want to complete the work we started two years ago.

Many voters have offered feedback that my campaign led the way in pushing for a personnel change with the Chief of Police. Today we have a new Chief and morale within the department is improving (although there is work to be done).

Like the turn of a ship, Fayetteville has begun to pivot steadily in the direction of public safety as residents demanded. Once in office I plan to implement town hall meetings so voters can address their concerns directly with me and other elected officials. This accountability is necessary for residents to have trust in city government again.

As your representative for District 5, I will focus on solutions to the homeless problem, ensure effective administration of our public utilities, safeguard an affordable cost-of-living as Fayetteville grows, and promote unity in our community.

The residents of District 5 are the core of Fayetteville. Together we can move Fayetteville ahead and make our community a decent place to live. Chance the Change!

Fayetteville, are you better off this year than you were a year ago? Two years ago? Fayetteville continues to lack decisive leadership at City Hall. This wonderful town has continued its downward trajectory because of continuing failures in City Council.

As a citizen, I owe it to my family, my friends and neighbors, to try and turn Fayetteville into a safe and prosperous city for them. It is for these reasons that I, Jose Alejandro “Alex” Rodriguez, have decided to run as a City Council candidate for District 1.

This city is in dire need of conservative leadership, and I am more than capable, experienced and willing to provide it. As a retired soldier and former police officer, I have served my country and community. I will continue to do so should the citizens of my district bless me with the opportunity to serve them.

I continue to believe that the success of our community lies in the following issues that I have made my platform:

1. Work with the Police Department leadership on effective solutions to reduce crime and homicides in a city that has established new records for both in the last two years. The safety and security of all citizens is of utmost importance to me. Nothing else can improve in the city if the safety of all citizens continues to erode. It is important that everyone feels safe and secure, so that everyone can succeed.

2. Cut unneeded and wasteful spending to avoid future tax increases that will adversely affect everyone, especially during these tough economic times. The city and county continue to waste money on unneeded projects and “throw” money at problems that don’t seem to go away. Add to the fact that they are now increasing taxes AGAIN, and in these tough economic times, continue to hurt Fayetteville residents. It is time to cut that unneeded spending and shift its focus to important problems that need immediate resolution such as the homeless, crime and public mental health.

3. Improve transparency and accountability at City Hall so that the public can review and stay informed of the actions of their public servants. Too often, the City Council and to some extent, the Fayetteville Police Department, refuse to release public information in a timely manner. This is public information that citizens are entitled to by law, so why do we have to wait?

4. The Formation of an Office of Public Safety to provide resources and assistance to the community and our first responders in difficult times and situations. Much of the crime and homelessness in Fayetteville derives from mental health issues. One of the things the city government should be doing is providing basic services to those in need to assist them in rehabilitation and recovery.

Part of my transparency plan is to be available to you. Please feel free to email me alex4faync@yahoo.com

Cumberland County Animal Services is participating in the nationwide Clear the Shelters campaign through Aug. 31. The Animal Shelter is currently at capacity and adoption fees are being waived during the entire month of August.

This is the ninth year Animal Services is partnering with WRAL TV-5 to help find as many forever homes as possible for animals at the Cumberland County Animal Shelter. Adopted pets receive a rabies vaccination, deworming, flea treatment, combo vaccine, microchip, heartworm test (dogs only) and a spay or neuter operation. Pet adoption fees are normally $100 for dogs and $70 for cats with these included services.

“At this time of year, our shelter is very full, so we are excited to be able to offer free adoptions throughout the month of August,” said Cumberland County Animal Services Director Elaine Smith.

“Hopefully we will be able to ‘clear’ our shelter and find all of our wonderful dogs and cats, puppies and kittens loving forever homes,” she said.

Animal Services is open for adoptions from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 1 to 5 p.m. on Saturdays. Anyone wishing to adopt must have photo identification and be at least 18 years old. All adoptions are on a first-come, first-served basis and up to two pets may be adopted per household.

The nationwide Clear the Shelters event is sponsored by NBC and local affiliate WRAL TV-5.

Since its 2015 inception, Clear the Shelters has helped more than 860,000 pets find new homes. The 2022 campaign established a new single-year record with more than 161,000 adoptions, while also raising more than $540,000.

In addition to adopting animals free of charge from the Cumberland County Animal Shelter, citizens can help save more animals by donating to the Clear the Shelters Fund at ClearTheSheltersFund.org.
Animal Services is located at 4704 Corporation Drive in Fayetteville.

For more information about Cumberland County Animal Services, go to www.cumberlandcountync.gov/departments/animal-services-group or call 910-321-6852.

Academy Sports + Outdoors and the Fayetteville Woodpeckers partnered to surprise 20 children with the Boys & Girls Club of Cumberland County with a $3,000 shopping spree ahead of the back-to-school season.

Each child received a $150 Academy gift card from the store to shop for all new sports gear and equipment, clothes, shoes and more. Woodpeckers’ mascot, Bunker, joined in to help them shop at the Skibo Road location.

The Woodpeckers also provided the Boys & Girls Club with tickets to a ball game at Segra Stadium.

Academy’s donation is one of several across its footprint to help deserving children get the essentials they need ahead of the school year.

Academy Sports + Outdoors is a full-line sporting goods and outdoor recreation retailer in the United States. Originally founded in 1938 as a family business in Texas, Academy has grown to 270 stores across 18 states including North Carolina.

Academy's mission is to provide "Fun for All" and Academy fulfills this mission with a localized merchandising strategy and value proposition that strongly connects with a broad range of consumers.

Academy's product assortment focuses on key outdoor apparel, sports and recreation and footwear through both leading national brands and a portfolio of private label brands. For more information, visit www.academy.com

General (Ret.) James Lindsay, of Vass, the former Commander of U.S. Special Operations Command, 18th Airborne Corps, and the 82nd Airborne Division passed away of natural causes at the age of 90 years old on Aug. 5.

“Last night, the Airborne and Special Operations Forces communities lost one of its greatest leaders with the passing of Gen. Jim Lindsay,” shared Lt. Gen. Chris Donahue, Commander of the 18th Airborne Corps and Fort Liberty on the morning after Lindsay's death.

“His leadership impacted the fabric of our nation, and our generation owes him tremendously for his presence and mentorship. Gen. Lindsay was truly the heart and soul of what we are all about. We extend our sincerest thoughts and prayers to Gen. Lindsay’s family as we all grieve this loss,” shared Donahue in a media release.

Gen. Lindsay served in the U.S. Army for 38 years. After enlisting into the U.S. Army in February 1952, he was commissioned as an Infantry officer upon attending Officer Candidate School at Fort Benning, Georgia. His initial assignment was as a Platoon Leader in the 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division.

Gen. Lindsay would go on to serve at Fort Liberty, then-Fort Bragg, with the 77th Special Forces Group (unit has since deactivated), at the Fort Bragg Noncommissioned Officer Academy, and in numerous roles within the 82nd Airborne Division.

“It is with a heavy heart we say goodbye to Gen. James Lindsay. As a former senior leader in the Airborne community, Gen. Lindsay embodied everything it means to be a paratrooper, a leader, and most importantly a good and decent human being. With more than 38 years of service to his country, commanding and leading soldiers at every echelon, he left an amazing legacy for us to emulate in the 82nd Airborne Division and he will truly be missed. Our thoughts and sympathies are with the Lindsay family and friends as they mourn the loss of this great American,” shared Maj. Gen. Christopher LaNeve, Commander of the 82nd Airborne Division.

Upon activation of the U.S. Special Operations Command at MacDill Air Force Base, on April 16, 1987, Gen. Lindsay became the unit’s first Commander in Chief. He also commanded 18th Airborne Corps, U.S. Army Infantry School, 82nd Airborne Division, U.S. Army Readiness Command, the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, the 2nd Battalion, 60th Infantry, 9th Infantry Division, and Company B, 1st Airborne Battle Group, 503rd Infantry Regiment.

During his time in uniform Lindsay would receive numerous military awards to include four Silver Stars, the Distinguished Service Medal and the Distinguished Service Cross for combat action in Vietnam.
Lindsay retired from service in 1990 but continued his support to the military, the Fort Liberty community and soldiers.

“General Lindsay had a vision of a facility to stand as a memorial to the character and values of the men and women of America’s airborne and special operations forces,” according to a statement from the Airborne and Special Operations Museum.

“With General Lindsay’s guidance, community leaders and the United States Army joined forces to bring his vision to fruition. On August 16, 2000 (National Airborne Day) the museum opened to the public to much fanfare. General Lindsay served as President Emeritus of the Airborne and Special Operations Museum Foundation until his passing.”

In celebration of the life and leadership of General Lindsay, a Designated Endowment Fund was created through the Cumberland Community Foundation to support the mission and programs of the Airborne and Special Operations Museum Foundation.

A celebration of life service will be scheduled at the Airborne and Special Operations Museum to honor his career of service at a later date.

President Ronald Reagan famously said, “A nation that cannot control its borders is not a nation.”

President Joe Biden’s open border policies have fueled a historic surge in illegal immigration and the flames of our ongoing border crisis.

Since Biden took office, there have been over 5.6 million illegal crossings encountered at our southern border, and approximately 1.6 million illegal immigrants have escaped apprehension that we know of.
According to Customs and Border Protection, 144,500 illegal immigrants were encountered at the southern border in June alone — an 186% increase from the number of June encounters during the last administration.

To date in FY23, Border Patrol agents have seized more than 22,000 pounds of fentanyl, surpassing the total amount seized in all of FY22. Fentanyl poisoning is the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18-45, and is killing 300 Americans every single day — including over 3,000 North Carolinians in 2022.

An amount small enough to fit inside the ear of Lincoln on a penny can be lethal. For anyone who cares about the safety of our young people, it’s heartbreaking and frustrating to witness this rapid decline in border security.

Every state, including North Carolina, is suffering from the impacts of Biden’s open border policies. That’s why I confronted Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra following the recent announcement that a facility for unaccompanied minors will begin operating in Greensboro within the next few weeks.

In 2021, while testifying before the Energy and Commerce Committee, Secretary Becerra told me there were no plans to open such a facility in North Carolina.

He knew that very day he had people doing a site visit at American Hebrew Academy in Greensboro. After Secretary Becerra blatantly misled me and several members of our delegation, the people of North Carolina deserve to know the truth. We have received nothing but delayed and vague responses.

You deserve real answers and real solutions. Housing illegal immigrants in schools across the nation will not solve our border crisis.
When House Republicans made our “Commitment to America,” we promised to secure the border and protect innocent Americans from the consequences of President Biden’s radical agenda.

Real solutions like H.R. 2, the Secure the Border Act, and the recently passed Schools Not Shelters Act, will deliver on our promise to secure the border — something Washington Democrats refuse
to do.

As the Sandhills’ Congressman and representative of the largest military base in the country, I am also committed to our resilient energy grid. Physical attacks on our nation’s power grid, like the one we experienced in Moore County, increased by 71% in 2022.

In July, I joined a House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee hearing to further examine emerging threats to our electrical grid. This hearing built on what we learned at the field hearing I hosted in Moore County in June.

We heard from expert witnesses about tangible solutions to strengthen our grid and prevent future attacks on the infrastructure you depend on.

One threat to our grid is the lack of a viable supply chain for grid components. Biden’s Department of Energy is about to make matters worse through proposed rules that will make it harder to find transformers. Their new rules will increase the time to procure new transformers from months
to years.

To combat these proposed standards, I introduced Protecting America’s Distribution Transformer Supply Chain Act to delay these new bureaucratic regulations for energy distribution transformers.
I was able to include this in the FY2024 Department of Energy authorization bill. This will not totally solve the supply chain problem, but it will prevent Washington bureaucrats from making it worse.

Our government exists to serve and protect you. From securing our borders to protecting your way of life, I am committed to building a safer future for you and your family that promotes long term economic prosperity, public safety and freedom.

Editor's note: Rep. Richard Hudson has been serving as the U.S. representative for North Carolina's 9th congressional district since 2013.

Last month I joined dozens of other writers, scholars, activists, and leaders across the country to declare ourselves “Freedom Conservatives.” What do FreeCons stand for? You can read our statement of common principles at FreedomConservatism.org.

Of course, virtually all Americans value freedom. But they don’t necessarily define the term in the same way. Nor do they agree on what policies are most likely to advance freedom as they define it.
The roots of these disagreements run deep. In his seminal work Albion’s Seed, the historian David Hackett Fischer describes four waves of settlement, emanating from four different regions of the British Isles, that helped shape the history and politics of the North American colonies during the 17th and 18th centuries. Each of the four “folkways,” as Fischer put it, contained its own conception of freedom.

For the Puritans who settled New England from East Anglia and the Netherlands, the organizing principle was “ordered liberty.” You were free if you were part of a free, self-governing community. “Public liberty,” as the concept was also called, was “thought to be consistent with close restraints upon individuals,” Fischer explained.

For the Royalists who settled Virginia and neighboring colonies from their original home in the south of England, the organizing principle was something closer to “hegemonic liberty,” in Fischer’s phrase. That is, while they emphasized individual freedom instead of the Puritans’ sense of collective liberty, Virginians didn’t think everyone was entitled to it. Rank had its privileges, in other words, and obviously those held in bondage were excluded entirely.

Quite different was the “reciprocal liberty” espoused by the Quakers and other religious dissenters who settled Pennsylvania and its environs. Their conception “embraced all humanity and was written in the Golden Rule.” While religious liberty was essential to this tradition, its protection of individual autonomy extended to other spheres of life, as well, including property rights and procedural rights for those accused of crimes.

Finally, large waves of settlement from Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Northern England during the 18th century brought the idea of “natural liberty” to the American backcountry. Rejecting the idea of tempering their personal freedom with the communal authority of the Puritans, the hierarchical authority of the Royalists, or the radical egalitarianism of the Quakers, the backcountry folk insisted that they simply wanted to be left alone. Indeed, as a group of Mecklenburg County leaders put it in 1768, their individual liberties came before their political obligations. “We shall ever be ready to support the government under which we find the most liberty,” they stated.

These were just the original British folkways that help shaped America’s political culture. Weave in the distinctive beliefs of America’s other origin cultures and you have an ideological tapestry of intricate complexity.
The late University of Oklahoma scholar Rufus Fears described freedom as existing at three levels. Individual freedom means the right to do as you choose without the government telling you otherwise. Political freedom means the right to vote and participate in civic affairs. Finally, national freedom means the right of a people collectively not to be ruled by some other people.

Ideally, one would enjoy freedom at all levels. But for most of recorded history, most people have enjoyed just one or two of these freedoms, if any. For example, within the Roman empire quite a few people enjoyed individual freedom and some enjoyed the political freedom to elect local magistrates. But no one outside Rome itself experienced national freedom.

To my way of thinking, individual freedom is the essential foundation of self-government. I value political freedom and national freedom precisely because I think they are most likely to protect individual freedom from encroachments, foreign or domestic. To be free is not necessarily to be happy. It certainly doesn’t make one free of social attachments, or capable of obtaining any particular goal. It simply means you can pursue whatever goal you wish without government telling you otherwise. And I think it’s worth fighting for.

Editor's note: John Hood is a John Locke Foundation board member. His latest books, Mountain Folk and Forest Folk, combine epic fantasy with early American history (FolkloreCycle.com).