The girls of the Hope Mills 10U Softball All-Stars Angels were all too happy to talk about their sport and recent win at the Dixie Softball World Series tournament in Monroe, Louisiana.
“Wait, am I gonna be on ESPN?” One asked excitedly. Her mom giggled.
When the 12 girls were picked from their recreational teams and chosen to represent Hope Mills at the World Series in the 10U Angels division, the families individually made the 13-hour drive to Louisiana. Most of the players on the All-Stars team fall between the ages of nine and ten, with just a few having barely turned 11.
“These rec ball teams get formed every single year. There is a draft, and they pick the players that they want to represent the city,” said head coach Brad Gump. Gump is a coach on a volunteer basis.
The tournament was a double elimination tournament where the team ended up playing at least four games to eventually win the World Series. This was all after they won districts and then state before heading to the national tournament. The players felt their coach helped play a pivotal role in this success.
“He is a very positive and great coach,” said Nia Beaty. “He gave us inspirational words and gave us a confidence boost that helped us win that game.”
The All-Stars lost only one of the games they played through all of their tournaments. This was the hardest part for third-base player Brynann Bryant. When asked what the challenging part of being on the All-Stars team was, she just replied, “Coping with the one loss we had all season.”
Brynann said she and the others would ask themselves how they could have played better and try to keep spirits high even with a loss.
Other team members though, like first-base player Natalie Seals, said after seeing the draft of all the players for the All-Stars team, and the level of talent they all had, they felt they might have a good chance of winning the World Series. The loss of one game didn’t shake their confidence in future wins.
“It’s a little bit of pressure to pick the right kids but you get to watch them all year so you kind of have an idea,” Gump said of choosing his team. “You get two months to watch the girls play and practice.”
Most of the girls play both rec and travel ball for softball with a lot of them gushing about the passion they have for the sport. They play the sport year-round.
“I have been playing softball for two years and I have enjoyed every minute of it,” said second-base player Nia. “Softball is a major part of my life, and I probably will never stop playing that sport.”
Her sentiments are also echoed by many of the other players who find themselves hoping to turn their passion into a career one day, like Brynann, who says she wants to "for sure" be a professional softball player. Being picked for the All-Stars team and eventually going to travel to Louisiana only added to the level of excitement for the sport for most of them, Gump said.
“The girls were highly motivated the entire time. Every single game they showed up motivated. They scored 200 runs throughout the whole tournament. They only gave 2 runs against them,” Gump said.
Next year, Gump is moving to the 12U age group for softball and if he stays there, he may get a chance to coach many of the same girls again.
As for now, the girls and Gump will get to celebrate their win with a dinner with the Town of Hope Mills commissioners, a banner on the field at the Hope Mills recreational fields and they will all get to be in the Christmas Parade. One thing is for sure, they all plan to see each other in the future.
“Possibly in the big leagues,” said Nia.

(Photo: The Hope Mills 10U Softball All-Stars pose for a photo. The team won the Dixie Softball World Series in a dominant fashion, outscoring their opponents 200 runs to 2. Photo courtesy of the Hope Mills All-Stars)

Steeped in history and ecological significance, the trails at Carvers Creek State Park weave visitors through Longleaf Pine ecosystems with wiregrass understory, past the longstanding Rockefeller House, and alongside habitats of federally endangered species. Approximately 13 miles of trails blaze through the 4881 acres of meticulously tended land.
Colleen Bowers, Ranger Supervisor at Carvers Creek State Park since 2010, detailed some of the restoration the property underwent in preparation for public access. She says it included reworking wetlands and a stream that was previously used as farm irrigation. The stream is now braided and runs across the front of the property. Restoration also includes regular controlled burns that regenerate and maintain the longleaf pine and wiregrass.
The ecosystem at Carvers Creek State Park is likely the most fire-adapted in the state, according to Bowers. She said there used to be about 90 million acres of longleaf pine in the southeast United States. Through turpentine harvesting and naval store industries in the 1700s, it was diminished to about three or 4 million acres. Longleaf pine sap is more plentiful and rich than other pine trees. They grow particularly tall, straight, and water-resistant. These raw materials were in particularly high demand at one time.
“It's definitely an ecosystem that we're losing but trying to preserve,” Bowers explained.
The preservation process requires controlled burns every few years. Bowers said they burn multiple units within the park on a 3-5 year rotation. The wiregrass meadow, however, is typically burned every year to maintain it as a warm-season grass meadow.
“In Fire-dependent ecosystems, the seeds cannot regenerate unless they’ve been exposed to fire in the summertime. So that way, when the seeds fall in the autumn, they're falling on nutrient rich, bare soil so they can sprout,” Bowers said.
This regenerative cycle and the habitat it provides endangered wildlife is the backdrop that hikers, bikers, and equestrian visitors enjoy on Carvers Creek trails.
Two trail access points, the Sandhills access, and the Long Valley Farm access, offer visitors distinct opportunities. Bowers explained that the Sandhills access trails are considered “multi-use,” meaning they’re open for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, and include horse trailer and pedestrian parking lots. The Long Valley Farm access trails are open only for hiking and biking, Bowers advised they can be challenging for bikes or strollers due to areas of soft, sandy terrain.
The Long Valley Farm access includes 2 trailheads: Cypress Point Loop Trail and Rockefeller Loop Trail. The Rockefeller loop trail features views of the Rockefeller house, the former winter escape of James Stillman Rockefeller. The house will eventually be renovated as a Visitor’s Center, but currently can only be viewed from the trail and is not open to the public. Bowers highlighted the first portion of the trail saying, “It’s a nice birding spot because there's a meadow on one side and then Longleaf Pine. So that's the first half mile of the trail is a great edge habitat for all of these birds.” She said sightings often include the Loggerhead shrike, Bobwhite quail, and Red-tailed hawk. The Cypress Point Loop trail runs along the millpond and features a 91-foot observation deck where visitors can access the scenic lake view.
The Sandhills access includes 7 trailheads. Bowers highlighted two. For an easy and approachable adventure, try the Wiregrass Loop Trail. Bowers said visitors don’t have to stray far for this activity, as the 1.4-mile loop starts and ends at the parking lot. For those interested in an up close look at the longleaf pine ecosystem, Bowers recommends the Longleaf Pine Trail. It’s 4 miles one way and does not loop, but visitors can turn around before the trail ends if they don’t wish to traverse all 8 miles. Not only do visitors get to see the towering trees on the Longleaf Pine Trail, but if they watch below, they’ll spy the creek. Hikers and cyclists cross on a footbridge, while horses ride through the water. The Sandhills access will also be the starting point for Fayetteville Running Club’s upcoming Deerfly Trail Race.
Humans and canines are both welcome at the Deerfly Trail Race with separate registrations and start times for both. Courses include an 11k and 6k that the Fayetteville Running Club describes as “fun and challenging race(s) for all ages and abilities.” The race will take place Saturday, Oct.19, at 8 a.m.
Bowers recommends visitors call ahead with questions and come prepared for their hike with important gear such as proper footwear, insect repellant, and plenty of water. Whether visitors are interested in walking, running, biking, or horseback riding, she encourages them to spend time on the trails and observe the unique ecosystems they spotlight.

A little water isn’t going to stop Dominique Womack from raising money for an amazing cause. KidsPeace Art Gallery was originally set for May 19 at the Wharehouse, a new event venue in the downtown area. The event is an annual fundraiser that supports children in foster care and foster care families.
“I’m not going to lie. I was really sad that we had to postpone the art gallery of Hope and even more saddened that our venue had to postpone its opening due to a sprinkler issue. I was super down and ready to give up, but a close person told me to learn to slow down and take inventory of every situation. After having talks with my support system, I realized that just because I can’t have national foster care awareness, it doesn’t it mean I should hang my head and give up (giving up is not the Douglas Byrd way). Then the planning started for the KidsPeace annual auction, and this year we wanted to give back to our supporters the best way we know how which is literally giving so in order to not create supporter burnout, which is a real thing I’m finding out around town, we decided to combine both events this year instead of having the events close to each other,” Womack said.
The guidance Womack received has been the cornerstone of the new event which is a combination of the KidsPeace Art Gallery and the KidsPeace Annual Auction. The new event is set for September 12 at 5:30 p.m. at the Cape Fear Botanical Gardens. The evening will be filled with laughter, fun, and of course the live and silent auction. Five Star Entertainment will be providing the music. Food and adult provisions have been generously donated by businesses like Southern Coals, Breakfast with Tiffany’s, Healey Wholesale, and Southern Pines Brewery. Attendees will also be able to bid on “masterPEACES” and artwork from local artists. Delayed but not denied, Womack is looking forward to an evening of supporting something so near and dear to her heart and appreciates all of the people who have made this happen.
“We are also thankful that Restore Warehouse has returned as our title sponsor. Bill McMillian is a saint. We also have some new sponsors this year and they are still rolling in. Our Fayetteville KidsPeace and Board of Associates are a great team. Honestly would be lost without them. KidsPeace Fayetteville has had the support from this community for over a decade and I am looking forward to making more memories!”

At KidsPeace Foster Care’s Annual “Chair-ity” Auction, you’ll find limitless creativity expressed in the auction items. Past pieces included a rustic wood window upgraded with panes of meticulously laid mosaic glass, and a children’s rocking chair made new with freshly painted dinosaurs. These items, refurbished by local artists, help kids.
According to Mike Edelman, program manager at KidsPeace, the pieces are a reflection of the agency’s purpose.
"The idea is to take something old, thrown away, and discarded, and make it into something wanted, which is really our mission with our foster children. They feel like they're unwanted and they're thrown away. And we want them to feel wanted."
He told the story of one foster child whose summer was changed for the better by the Chair-ity Auction.
“She’s a very good student. She's in an early college program, and she got information at her school for a journalism camp at Johns Hopkins University up near Baltimore. But she crumpled up the paper and put it in the bottom of her backpack because she thought, ‘Nobody has the money.’ Her foster parents found this out a couple of days before the deadline. They called and said, ‘We really want to send her to this camp, we just need help.’ I said, ‘Absolutely, just tell me what you need and I’ll write the check.’ We immediately got that money paid to the school and she attended the journalism camp.”
Funds raised at the auction made her participation possible.
Hundreds of foster parents and children face similar dilemmas. According to Edelman, while Medicaid has increased their rates to an extent that helps KidsPeace keep their doors open, it’s not enough. KidsPeace wants to finance opportunities that keep the kids' lives moving “toward normalcy.” He described opportunities like summer camp, owning musical instruments, and going on vacation.
Despite the ongoing need to maintain a surplus allocated toward supporting these opportunities, 2024’s auction will look a little different. Edelman says they’re focusing on building awareness.
“We're calling it our ‘Give Back Year.’ We cut the cost of all of our sponsorships and our tickets in half this year. I don't want to say we don't need the money, there's always the need for money, but we also really want to continue to build awareness.”
The auction will still feature local artists’ handiwork, upcycling bits of unwanted furniture and turning them into stunning art pieces. But Edelman says they need to highlight more fundamental areas of need.
In Cumberland County alone there are 1,200 children in the foster care system. This is over four times greater than nearby counties similar in size and population. Forsyth County, for example, currently has 250 children in their foster care system. When kids in Cumberland County are placed with a foster family, summer camps and music lessons can become priorities, but delayed placements are not uncommon.
“There are so many kids in our area, some of them sleeping in DSS offices, because there aren't enough Cumberland County foster homes out there available to take them,” Edelman explained.
By cutting sponsorship and ticket costs, KidsPeace brings other needs to the forefront, including the need for more foster parents. But for those who can’t donate or attend the auction, he says there are other ways to help and hopes the community will spread the word.
“There are so many kids out there who need good, loving homes. We have a big need for awareness and just sharing information is often the best thing people can do. Maybe you're not in a financial spot to be able to donate, but if you share about the fundraiser, maybe somebody you know will want to buy one of these upcycled items. Or maybe you know someone who has an event space. We’re always looking for an event space for our Christmas party. As a non-profit, we’re all about doing things for free.”
Though their 11th annual auction won’t focus as heavily on funding, Edelman says the mission at
KidsPeace remains the same.
"These kids have faced enough rejection when they come to us. They've often been in 10 to 12 foster homes already. We want to end that cycle. We want them to know that people care about them."
General admission tickets can be purchased for $35.00 at kidspeacefayettevilleauction.com/annualauction. The “Chair-ity” Auction will be held Thursday, Sept.12, at 5:30 p.m. at the Cape Fear Botanical Garden.

(Photo: A participant holds up a paddle during the 2023 Chair-ity auction at the Cape Fear Botanical Garden. Photo courtesy of KidsPeace of Fayetteville' Facebook page)

We’ve become desensitized to stories about 9/11. We all seemingly know what the members of the Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) endured that day 23 years ago. We know that 121 fire engines, 62 ladder companies and 100 ambulances converged on the World Trade Center after al-Qaeda terrorists flew planes into first the North Tower at 8:46 a.m. and then the South Tower at 9:03 a.m.
We know that 23 battalion chiefs arrived at the Twin Towers and only 4 went home and that 750 firefighters were dispatched and that 343 never came back. We know the firefighters came to recognize the incomprehensible sound of human beings impacting the ground.
Faced with being burned alive, people chose to jump to their deaths, and in fact, the first firefighter to die on 9/11 was hit by a falling body. The sound became a siren’s call to the firefighters to ascend. The rescued owe their lives to men who saw and heard a nightmare around them and only thought to free their people. They attempted to climb the height of the building, 110 flights, 2,200 stairs, in full gear, into the smoke and fire. They reached the 78th floor.
That act by New York City’s firefighters on behalf of their fellow citizens is what the 2024 Fayetteville 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb is all about. Each climber carries the name and picture of a firefighter who died in the attacks. This year’s event will be held on Saturday, Sept. 14 at Segra Stadium, 460 Hay St.
The climb starts at 8:46 a.m., the exact moment the North Tower was struck. The public is welcome to participate; registration costs $30 and proceeds benefit the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF). You’re encouraged to register online prior to Sept. 10 or to sign up onsite the day of the event starting at 6:30 a.m.
Firefighters know there are health concerns associated with wearing turnout gear. That said, young people born after 2001 only have two-dimensional screen images to help them understand what New York City firefighters, police and port authority personnel endured during a terrorist attack with fellow Americans trapped by fire above them. Seeing today’s firefighters wearing the same gear and carrying the same equipment is an in-person, real-world display of risk and self-sacrifice in honor of the fallen. It doesn’t go unnoticed.
Today, more firefighters have died from known cancers associated with the fallout of 9/11 than died in the attacks. The number is now north of 350, according to Regina Livingston, NFFF development program manager. Research shows firefighters are 9 percent more likely to be diagnosed with certain cancers than the average American and they are 14 percent more likely to succumb to those illnesses.
In addition to myocardial infarction within 24 hours of duty, those cancers are: mesothelioma, testicular, intestinal and esophageal. The firefighting community has been aware of this for 15 years, but only slowly has it come to the fore of the public’s consciousness. Here at home, the most recent line-of-duty death within the Fayetteville Fire Department (FFD) was Chief John Bowen from colon cancer. He was 35. Over the course of the FFD’s history, it has lost five firefighters in line-of-duty deaths.
FFD Captain Stephen M. Shakeshaft has “Sola Fide” tattooed inside his right forearm; on his left is “Sola Christus.” From the Latin, they translate as “through faith alone” and “through Christ alone.” They are two of the Five Solas of the Protestant Reformation, the 16th-century Christian movement that sought to bring the Catholic Church back to basics. (The other three are “Sola Scriptura,” the bible is the sole authority for Christians; “Sola Gratia,” we receive salvation solely through God’s grace; and “Soli Deo Gloria,” we live our lives to glorify God alone).
On his left forearm is a cross in color with a red-headed fireman’s axe ensconced within the wood of the cross. He’ll tell you that there’s no more intense rush than running into a burning building, but over time, he has come to realize he was encountering people on the worst day of their lives and that it was a privilege and gift he’d been given to help them. His perspective changed; the adrenalin addictiveness turned into a heart of service to those he encountered throughout his duty.
Brave The Fire is the FFD climb team and the department appreciates the community’s support and participation.
The first-responder community and the military have always maintained close ties. Sure, there is good-natured ribbing, but mutual respect predominates between our armed forces, law enforcement, firefighters and paramedics. This is why the military turns out in force to support their firefighting brethren.
Many of the men who died on 9/11 also served in the military. One firefighter who had served in the Marine Corps 35 years prior to 9/11 heard the cadence “one, two, three, four; I love the Marine Corps” in his head as he ascended the stairs. It got him through; he survived.
FDNY Chief of Department Peter J. Ganci, Jr. served in the 82nd Airborne Division.
When the North Tower collapsed, he did not survive. The Fayetteville Stair Climb has numerous military teams set up. You are encouraged to register with a team or as an individual to help explain to the next generation what happened on 9/11 and over the ensuing 20-year Global War on Terror.
The NFFF Stairs Climb Program began in 2005 as a training exercise in Denver, Colo. Because of 9/11, there was interest in learning about high-rise firefighting. As the anniversary approached, the organizers decided they would make the exercise equivalent to the 110 flights the 9/11 firefighters attempted to brave.
In a few years, other Colorado department heads inquired about conducting their own climbs and then firefighters out of state made contact. The organizers approached the NFFF and a partnership was born whereby events across the country would benefit the work of the NFFF. The organization’s “mission is to honor America's fallen fire heroes; support their families, colleagues and organizations; and work to reduce preventable firefighter death and injury.”
For more information, or to register for the event, visit https://nfff.akaraisin.com/ui/fayetteville24/about

(Photo: Firefighters, Police Officers, EMS professionals, soldiers and civilians took over 2100 steps to honor those who lost their lives in the World Trade Center and those who continue to live with 9/11 related illnesses during the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb in 2023. More than 500 people participated in the climb.)

Cumberland County Animal Services reports a confirmed case of rabies in a raccoon in the 6200 block of Withers Drive in Fayetteville. A test conducted at the N.C. State Public Health Lab in Raleigh confirmed the animal was rabid. No people were reportedly exposed to the raccoon, but one dog with current rabies vaccinations was exposed to the animal.
The incident occurred Aug. 17 when a resident reported their dog was in a fight with a raccoon. The dog killed the raccoon and did not sustain injuries. Animal Services responded, retrieved the raccoon and sent it to the lab in Raleigh for testing.
All pet owners are urged to check the rabies vaccination status of their pets. If pets are not vaccinated or are due for a booster shot, they should be taken to a local veterinarian for rabies vaccination immediately.
Pet owners can bring their pet to Animal Services Wednesdays from 2 to 4 p.m. and get a 1-year rabies vaccination for $5. Animal Services is located at 4704 Corporation Dr., Fayetteville.
The first sign of rabies in animals is usually a change in behavior. Animals may become aggressive, attacking for no reason, or they may become very quiet. Wild animals can lose their fear of people and act tame. Rabid animals may walk in a circle, drag a leg, or fall over. Some cannot swallow so they are not able to eat or drink and often drool. Animals usually die within a week after first becoming ill.
Avoiding wild animals and keeping a safe distance from stray dogs and cats is the first step in preventing an animal bite. Any pet which appears to have been in a fight while outside should be handled with caution and seen by a veterinarian.
If you are bitten or scratched by an animal:
• Immediately wash the wound under running water for at least 10 minutes with lots of soap. Seek medical attention/advice.
• Call Cumberland County Animal Services at 910-321-6852, Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday. For emergencies outside business hours, call Cumberland County Emergency Services at 910-323-1141 or call 911.
• Go to the emergency room.
It is also important to vaccinate pets for rabies and keep their shots current. Pet owners are reminded that state law requires that all dogs and cats be vaccinated against rabies. Pet owners are subject to a fine of $100 for each unvaccinated dog or cat. Pets must be vaccinated when they reach the age of four months.

Howdy buckaroos, it’s time to put on the old Grecian Formula. Let’s mosey down to the Trojan War Corral to watch the showdown between Achilles and Hector. A little Greek mythology can go a long way. Like Brill Cream, a little dab will do you. Here is the highly compressed and mangled story of the importance of washing your ankles.
Achilles was born into a troubled family. His Momma was Thetis, a Sea Nymph. His Daddy was the mortal King Peleus. As a result, Achilles was half mortal and half Immortal. Achilles had the world’s most famous ankle. Gentle reader, you possess Achilles tendons as a result. Look at your feet. You can wiggle them due to your Achilles tendons. Your feet are your personal brush with Greek mythology.
Thetis was the original Mommy Dearest. There are several versions of why Achilles’ ankle became famous. Version A- Thetis wanted Achilles to become immortal and dipped him into the magic river Styx to achieve that goal. Unfortunately, she held him by his ankle while dipping him which left his ankle vulnerable to being killed. Version B- Thetis slathered ambrosia all over Achilles to protect his God half and put him on a fire to burn away his mortal half. Daddy Peleus interrupted her pyromania and saved Achilles from being toasted. This aggravated Thetis no end, causing her to abandon Achilles and his Daddy.
Version C- Thetis had a nasty habit of burning her children shortly after they were born. Peleus finally realized that even though his wife was frequently pregnant, there were no children pitter pattering around the palace. He followed her the day she gave birth to Achilles. He spotted her trying to roast Achilles like a chestnut over an open fire. Peleus yanked Achilles off the fire with only a burned foot. Peleus no longer trusted Thetis to raise Achilles without cooking him like a Toast’em Pop-Up. Like any good absentee Dad would do, he gave little Achilles with his burnt foot to be raised by the Centaur Chiron. Chiron decided to heal the burned foot. Chiron, who had no formal medical training, was resourceful for a half man/half horse. He performed the first foot transplant by digging up the corpse of Damysus, who had been the world’s fastest Giant. Chiron lopped off the Giant’s foot and attached it to Achilles left leg. This healed the burned area leaving Achilles with a vulnerable ankle.
Achilles grew up to be the world’s greatest warrior, despite his ankle secret. He ultimately got tangled up in the Greek versus Trojan War. He led the Greek navy and army to the City of Troy. The Greeks were camped outside Troy ready to be led by Achilles to whup up on the Trojans. Unfortunately, Achilles’ feelings got hurt by Agamemnon in a ruckus over a woman. Achilles started pouting and refused to leave his tent to lead the Greeks until Agamemnon apologized. Like Cartman in Southpark, Achilles wanted to pick up his football and go back to Greece quitting the war. As Cartman said, “Screw you guys, I’m going home.” The Trojans, who were led by Hector, learning of Achilles’ snit, attacked the Greeks. The Greek’s second in command was Patroclus who was perhaps, more than just a really good friend to Achilles. Not that there is anything wrong with that. Patroclus got killed in the battle with the Trojans. His death finally got Achilles fired up to return to battle.
Achilles went one-on-one with Hector. Before Achilles killed Hector, Hector asked for his body to be treated respectfully at a funeral. You would not like Achilles when he is angry. He told Hector: “My rage, my fury would drive me now to hack your flesh away and eat you raw.” Achilles killed Hector and dragged Hector’s body by his ankles behind his chariot to complete his diss of Hector.
As George Harrison sang: “All things must pass.” All good things, and even bad things, must come to an end. Achilles got into some more scuffles and adventures. Hector’s brother, a Dude named Paris, ultimately gets revenge by shooting Achilles with an arrow smack dab into his ankle. Achilles dies and gets sent to the Underworld. Eventually, his old buddy Odysseus visits the Underworld and runs into Achilles. He asks Achilles how things are going. Achilles is not a happy camper. He replies: “I would rather be a slave to the worst of masters, than be King of all the dead.”
What have we learned today? It is not enough to wash behind your ears. Wash your ankles. Being King of the Dead ain’t great.

(Illustration by Pitt Dickey)

Last week, we celebrated two of Fayetteville and Cumberland County's most dedicated and beloved siblings of the Breece family.
Robert and Corey Breece were honored by being initiated into North Carolina's most prestigious organization, the Order of the Long Leaf Pine Society. Surrounded by friends, family, and elected government officials, State House Representative Diane Wheatley presented Robert and Corey this distinguished state honor on behalf of Governor Roy Cooper at their family business, Rogers & Breece Funeral Home on Ramsey St..
Since 1964, the Order of the Long Leaf Pine has been the most prestigious award a North Carolina Governor has presented to citizens. Robert and Corey now join thousands of outstanding NC residents with documented records of extraordinary, dedicated, and enthusiastic service to the state, their communities, and humanity.
Undoubtedly, these two lifelong Fayettevillians had no trouble fulfilling those qualifications.
Robert and Corey are carrying on the business of their forefathers, a business and calling steeped in 126 years of tradition, love, and compassion. Both brothers cannot hide their pride in operating the family business with their sons and the knowledge and confidence that the Breece legacy is guaranteed.
I have known these gentlemen for over four decades. It was heartwarming to witness such a well-deserved honor being bestowed on two people who first and foremost credit their success and good fortunes in life unequivocally to God and the patriotic freedoms they enjoy daily as Americans.
State Representatives Garland Pearce, Charles Smith, and Diane Wheatley represented Gov. Roy Cooper as Wheatley read the proclamation:
For dedication and service beyond expectation and excellence to the Great State of North Carolina, on behalf of the citizens of this state, I bestow upon:
Robert Breece and Corey Breece
The Old North State Award
'Working together, we can make North Carolina the place of unlimited opportunity — a place where anyone who studies hard, works hard, and lives a life with high values can fulfill and even exceed their potential.'
Roy Cooper
Governor of North Carolina
This was followed by the tradition of reciting the official toast of North Carolina:
Here's to the land of the long-leaf pine,
The summer land where the sun doth shine,
Where the weak grow strong, and the strong grow great,
Here's to "Down Home," the Old North State!
Again, congratulations to Corey and Robert on this lifetime achievement.
And, to our followers, thank you for reading Up & Coming Weekly.

(Photo: Robert (Left) and Corey Breece are initiated in the Order of the Long Leaf Pine Society, Aug. 21. The brothers are continuing their family's legacy at the Rogers & Breece Funeral Home on Ramsey St. Photos by Bill Bowman)

"That couldn't happen if you moved every three years."
Reynolds Price, the late novelist and Duke professor, was talking to a group at a Southern Writers Conference in Chapel Hill about memories.
Our memories are our treasures. They are who we are. Looking backwards some of us see our parents, brothers, sisters, grandparents, cousins, longtime friends, teachers, preachers, and the places we knew them--home, church, school, stores, and fields. Those people and places of growing up define us. They are our anchors. They are our foundations. They are our roots. At least they are, if we have those memories — if we remember where we grew up.
But fewer and fewer of us know where we are from. The average American moves every three years. You can't let you roots grow too deep if you move that often.
If you move every three years and live in a new neighborhood where everybody else is new, Price says, you are not going to have the same kind of memories as those who grew up in one place.
Does it make a difference? I think it does. I can't prove it, but look around at the people who are making a difference in North Carolina — the best business leaders, our best political leaders, our best teachers and writers.
Don't a disproportionate number of them come from small towns and farms?
What explains their success in the development of leaders for the rest of us?
Some big city snobs would say that these leaders have had to overcome their culturally deprived backgrounds. Look at the small towns, they say, and see nothing happening, backward schools, no theaters, no big libraries, no big-time sports.
Nothing there? Nothing but the stable nurturing that creates the self-defining memories that Reynolds Price talked about.
North Carolina's small towns and rural communities are the state's "people estuaries."
Estuaries are those protected brackish waters along our coast, which, with the marshes, swamps, and backwaters, are the most efficient producers of food in the state. They are a critical link in our food chain. We often think of those areas as underdeveloped backwaters. But they are irreplaceable treasures where the richness and stability of life makes for one of the earth's most productive ecosystems.
Reynolds Price was right. Those nurturing memories that the small towns make possible are important in giving people a sense of who they are. People who have a sense of who they are become our best leaders, which may explain why small towns are so successful in producing North Carolina's leaders.
They are our "people estuaries."

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.

Starting school for the first time or simply returning to campus after another summer break can lead to mixed feelings. Kids may be excited to see their friends every day, but that comes at the price of the end of lazy summer days.
The first day of school is on the horizon, and parents may discover their children seem a bit despondent that vacation is coming to a close. Such feelings may stem from more than the end of summer vacation. Some students may be nervous about going to school. New faces, new experiences and new teachers can lead to a little anxiety. Here are some ways to tame the nerves.
• Do a trial run. Before school starts, do a test run to the drop-off location, bus stop or pick up whomever will be carpooling together. Getting into that routine can help reduce nervousness.
• Participate in meet-and-greets. Some schools offer certain events designed to introduce students even before classes begin. Schools may host ice cream socials or picnic lunches on school grounds, particularly for younger grades. These events give children an opportunity to get to know their classmates before the first school bell rings.
• Take a school tour. If a student is about to start in a new school or will be attending school for the first time, families will want to see if they can get tours of the school and facilities. Just one glance inside can be enough to familiarize students with the lay of the land, which might make things less scary on the first day.
• Check the class list. Some schools do not provide a list of all students in particular classes, but increasingly those that rely on programs like Google Classroom or Canvas may enable students to see who will be in their class. Children also can use social apps like Instagram and Snapchat to locate school-associated groups to find other students. Parents and their children can brainstorm how to deal with other students who may have been difficult in the past, while also perusing lists for friendly faces.
• Practice conversation skills. Many modern kids have their eyes locked on devices. They may be a little rusty with ice breakers and initiating conversation. Role playing at home can give kids some ideas of how to forge new relationships in the classroom.
• Recognize and take concerns seriously. Parents and other caregivers can be receptive to conversation with children regarding their concerns about starting school. Talking about feelings can help kids tame their nervousness, especially when adults take them seriously.
Children may be nervous about starting school. Parents, caregivers and teachers can work together to help students overcome these jitters quickly.

From the ornate crystal chandlers to the marble flooring, every inch of Shahbain Farms and Event Center has been meticulously selected to create an extraordinary venue, ready to be the backdrop of events from weddings to birthdays. Located at 469 Posey Farm Road, Raeford, this 30,000-square-foot space is the epitome of luxury starting from the palm-lined drive into the parking space, to the grand staircase that greets guests as they enter through the door. The grounds around the event center feature a pond, gazebos and a fountain. Shahbain was built for luxury, boasting 3 Grand Ballrooms, all with a capacity of 1200 people and a 4th “Smoke Lounge” Ballroom, that provides guest with a more unique and niche experience during their event. Twenty-five-foot doors separate the ballrooms and add to the sophistication of the space. The event center features a range of amenities including:
• 10 Hour Rentals
• Venue Manager on Duty
• Crème and gold trim chairs
• 60-inch plastic round tables and 8-foot plastic rectangular tables
• Cake table, sweetheart table, cocktail tables, and 72-inch glass with gold trim tables
• Luxurious restrooms
• VIP parking spaces
• LED lighting system in the fourth ballroom
• Sound system, TVs, and free WiFi
• Indoor smoking ballroom
• Outdoor fountain
• Live horses and a commercial kitchen
• Onsite rentals, a kids’ facility, and a bridal suite
• 2 Indoor prep kitchens
• Commercial Kitchen
• Prayer Room
They also offer a range of services including preferred vendor options and bar packages. Shahbain has partnered with the premier carters, decorators, photographers, videographers and event planners, ensuring clients have the best experience every time they come.
Owner Jamal Shahbain has taken great care in creating an event venue that provides luxury, sophistication and elegance to Raeford and surrounding areas. Settling in Raeford over 25 years ago with his family, Shahbain has always envisioned having a venue in the area that would create the perfect setting for proms, galas, socials and corporate events. The venue’s Director and Operational Manager DeNice Green, has been in the event planning and design industry for over a decade, making her the perfect fit for executing the vision of clients.
Newly opened Shahbain Farms and Event Center has already hosted several events, including a grand wedding, officially marking the opening of the venue. They have also hosted a back-to-school giveaway, supporting local families with school supplies as the beginning of the school year draws closer and a soft opening for vendors. The soft opening gave local vendors and opportunity to tour the venue, and discuss opportunities to be a listed preferred vendor. Coming up on Nov. 3rd, the venue will host The Majority Greek Awards, also known as the Pearly Awards, an event that highlights the community service and involvement of members of black fraternities and sororities in the area. To purchase tickets to this upcoming event, visit the website at https://www.majoritygreek.com/event-details/pearly-awards-fay-2024.
For more information visit the Shahbain Farms and Event Center website at https://shahbaineventcenter.com/. For booking visit https://shahbainfarmseventcenter.hbportal.co/public/66a1c2eeb0236b001fbfc4bf/1-Schedule_your_session.

(Photo:The Shahbain Farms and Event Center is the newest venue in Raeford. The events center has 3 grand ballrooms, a "smoke lounge" ballroom, and outdoor features such as a pond, gazebo and fountain. Photo courtesy of Shahbain Farms and Event Center Facebook page)

Fayetteville Roller Derby is finishing up their season with a doubleheader against Cape Fear Roller Derby at the Crown Arena, 1960 Coliseum Drive (the building with the tin dome beside the theater), on Saturday, Aug. 24 starting at 5 p.m. Tickets are $14. Home team tickets purchased cover admission for both games. The night begins with the Fayetteville All Stars taking on the Cape Fear Roller Derby out of Wilmington, NC, and ends with a match between the FRD Ritzy Rollers and FRD Wreckers. For those unfamiliar with roller derby, it’s an aggressive marriage of rink skating and football. Here’s a breakdown of how roller derby works.
Playtime
• (2) 30-minute halves, broken down into 2-minute “jams” or plays
Players and Positions
• Each team is allowed 5 players,
• 1 Jammer (offense) designated by a star on their helmet
• 3 blockers
• 1 pivot blocker (defense) designated by a stripe on their helmet
• A pivot blocker can become a jammer, switching from offense to defense
Goal of the game
• Get the jammer around the track as many times as possible before the 2-minute jam ends
While some may have grown up watching “bank track,” most roller derby teams now compete on a flat track.
“We play on a variety of surfaces, not polished concrete… sometimes we’re on sport(s) court floors, sometimes it’s a skating rink, so that's a wooden floor and sometimes it’s a basketball court. That's the great thing about flat track [be]cause we can play anywhere that’s a smooth surface. We put a rope down to do boundaries and that gets taped over. That becomes our boundaries, and we can feel that with our wheels,” explained DanniBanannie, league secretary and training board member.
Fayetteville Roller Derby is as much a community staple as the International Folk Festival, with over 15 years in the community. The league is more family than competitors and it’s apparent in the way they talk about not only their teammates but others. Psycho, the league's recruitment chair said, “This is my 11th season with the league. I started in 2013… The hardest thing [about roller derby] is myself. I’m really hard on myself about it. Even after 11 years, I don’t feel like I’m very good. But the thing I love most about it is the family,” she said. “When I moved here, I didn’t have anybody and now me and SheHulk have been friends for 10 years. I really feel like this is my family here. And they always got my back. She (SheHulk) used to babysit for me when I took college classes.”
SheHulk, league President and training committee member said, “I’ve been on the team for 10 years now. I started when I was 19… we started 15, 16 years ago. There were actually two leagues at one point. I actually started on the other league and they kinda fizzled out and I transferred over here,” she said. “I grew up playing sports. When I moved to Fayetteville, I wanted something to do. I was looking for a softball team, literally anything. Then I saw an ad on Facebook that said ‘come play roller derby.’ I was like, Ok, and I’ve been doing it ever since.”
Fayetteville Roller Derby is actively recruiting new members. Members “pay to play” and are responsible for the purchase of equipment. Fayetteville Roller Derby is inclusive and openly invites anyone who identifies on the female spectrum to come out and try out.
One's ability to skate should also not keep them from trying out. Many members admit that roller derby was their first time skating, or they had very little track time before jumping headfirst into the sport. There are also non-skating positions for those who are quad-impaired or just can’t physically skate.
“Our open recruitment starts Aug. 26. There will be a practice Monday of that week and that Wednesday, as well as the following Monday and Wednesday. Anybody can come on any of those days if you want to learn how to skate with us. We’ll teach you everything… I’m primarily a blocker. I got one or two good jams in me [be]cause I have asthma and fun hurts my lungs,” Psycho said of the upcoming recruitment.
Make sure you follow them on Facebook to stay up to date on games and recruitment opportunities at https://www.facebook.com/fayettevillerollerderbyfans. Tickets for the upcoming doubleheader can be purchased at Ticketmaster.

(Photo:From left to right: Psycho, Hannabanannie and SheHulk, members of the Fayetteville All Stars Roller Derby team, pose for a photo during practice. Photo by Amber Little)

Librari-Con has returned! This year it is teaming up with Cool Springs Downtown District's Nerd Market, a great addition to this month's 4th Friday. Dive into the heart of fandom culture with the annual Librari-Con and Nerd Market, where fantasy, anime, and cosplay converge in an unforgettable community celebration.
Exploring the Magic of Librari-Con: Activities and Attractions
Librari-Con is not just another mini-anime convention; it's a portal to a world where fantasy and reality blend seamlessly. Attendees can indulge in a range of activities from gaming sessions that challenge both mind and dexterity to craft workshops that bring creativity to life. Every corner of Librari-Con brims with the spirit of adventure and storytelling, offering a space for fans to connect and share their love for all things anime, manga, and beyond.
The convention is also a family-friendly event where newcomers can experience the rich tapestry of fandom culture. Whether you're participating in a workshop, watching live performances, or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, Librari-Con has something to offer for every age and interest.
What to Expect at the Nerd Market: A Hub for Creatives and Collectors
Nerd Market serves as the creative heartbeat of the 4th Friday in Downtown Fayetteville, transforming Person Street into a bustling hub for artists, musicians, and vendors. It's a collector's paradise where you can find an array of comic books, fantasy artifacts, and anime treasures. The market is a testament to the ingenuity and passion of the fandom community, offering a platform for independent creators to showcase their work.
As you wander through the market, you'll be greeted by the sounds of live music, the sights of stunning artwork, and the friendly faces of fellow enthusiasts. It's an immersive experience that celebrates the diversity of fandom culture and the shared passion that unites its members.
Cosplay Central: Tips and Contests at Librari-Con and Nerd Market
Cosplay is a cornerstone of Librari-Con and Nerd Market, embodying the creativity and dedication of fans. Whether you're a seasoned cosplayer or trying it out for the first time, these events offer the perfect opportunity to showcase your skills and passion for your favorite characters. Tips for first-timers include starting with simple costumes, being resourceful with materials, and most importantly, having fun with the process.
The excitement peaks during the cosplay contest at Nerd Market, where craftsmanship and imagination take center stage. Participants can expect a supportive crowd and the chance to win accolades for their hard work. It's a celebration of the artistry that goes into bringing beloved characters to life.
Both events will be taking place on Friday, Aug. 23 starting at 5 p.m. Librari-Con will be set up at the Headquarters Library downtown located at 300 Maiden Lane. If you have any questions concerning Librari-con you can call 910-483-7727 ext. 1381. Nerd Market will be situated along Person Street, also downtown. For more information on 4th Friday or Nerd Market visit: https://tinyurl.com/3rckkwjx

Fayetteville has something for everyone. There are restaurants, bars, gaming lounges, speakeasies, wine bars, and sports bars. And now there is Seven Horsemen Billiards, a pool hall and venue space that features 4 pool tables, an air hockey table, old school Pac-Man, two bars, a DJ booth, a VIP area, a stage, and a private room, featuring a private bar and bartender dedicated to customers and their guest. The main bar is called the Carolina Room and is pretty self-explanatory. It is painted in Carolina Blue and decked out with TVs and a huge bar. Located at the Downtown Corridor, at 715 W. Rowan Street, Seven Horsemen Billiards is the perfect place to grab a drink, play some pool, and catch a game on the television while you’re at it. Open 7 days a week, there is always something going on.
• Monday- Show off your vocal chops at Karaoke Night!
• Tuesday- Ante up for Poker Night!
• Wednesday- Dive into fun on Wet Wednesday!
• Thursday- College students, make it your night on College Night!
• Friday- Feel the rhythm with Latin Night!
• Saturday- Dress to impress for Grown and Sexy Night!
• Sunday- Jazz Night, 910 Music Bingo
Michael Hayes is the owner, or as he prefers to call himself, the President of Seven Horsemen Billiards. A veteran and seasoned business owner, Hayes has put his all into his new endeavor. The name, Seven Horsemen, has a special meaning to Hayes.
“I used to have a sports bar down the street at 4939 Bragg Blvd, Fanatic Sports Bar with Big Abe, Abraham, who passed away last August. I came up with Seven Horsemen… it’s seven members of my immediate family, the address begins with seven, my Masonic line number is 7, so [it became] Seven Horsemen,” Hayes said.
Hayes is taking over a vacant space, in an area that is seeing growth and revitalization.
“...It was a pool hall, so I left it a pool hall. My main objective is playing pool but at the same time, we do a variety of events. We are open 7 days a week. We do [everything] from karaoke to fun games of poker. And if you’re good enough you build up your points and you get a trip to Vegas to play for $100K. I have a variety of DJs, from DJ Choice to Mike Tech,” Hayes explained.
Seven Horsemen Billiards is creating partnerships with their HBCU neighbor, Fayetteville
State University.
“The 29th of this month will be the official FSU thirsty night, college night… Homecoming is already locked in… The first Saturday in October, we’ll do Lil Roo,” Hayes said of the newfound partnership.
Hayes lost his friend Terrance “Big Abe” Abraham just 2 weeks before his move back to help start what would have been Fanatics 2.0. Hayes knows the value of the people around him. That’s a big part of why he refers to himself as the President; although he’s “in charge,” nothing would be possible without his family and friends.
“First, I want to shout out to my kids and family for supporting me. I want to give a shout-out to Tennessee, he [does] all my cleaning and maintenance work. Jason, he’s like head of security. Besides that, he did all the lights. Sade, she keeps me out of trouble, she’s the brains, she [does] all my paperwork, all my filing. E, she keeps everybody in check. She manages the bar. She keeps me [informed] on who needs to exit; Shai, she just came back from deployment. My sister, she’s the fill-in when someone can’t come in or management needs time off. She’ll do it. And of course, The Mo You Know, she put me in the right place of making things happen. And friends, caring, riding around trying to find buildings. It’s just a bunch of people,” Hayes said.
For more information about the pool hall, call 910-689-6945.

After spending six years operating The Pink Petunia, Jen Britt knew it was time for a change when the business finally took over almost four rooms in her house. She scouted a retail location in Fayetteville's Haymount neighborhood and signed the lease on Christmas day for 1325 Hay St.
“I said, ‘this will be the best or worst Christmas present I have given myself.’ And it truly has been the best,” she recounted. They’ve been operating out of their new storefront since April of this year.
The Pink Petunia is a specialty shop featuring gifts, monogramming services, custom art, home decorating services, children’s clothes, and more. Britt’s multi-faceted small business is built on decades of experience. She spent 22 years as a national sales manager for five major gift companies. During that time, she traveled to China for product development, ran sales forces nationwide, and designed major show rings in Los Angeles, Dallas, Atlanta, and New York.
Art was always a part of her life too. Though she graduated as a communications major and didn’t pursue a formal art education, her grandmother’s influence early in life pushed her to develop her artistic gifts.
"I was very close with my mom's mom growing up and watched her paint. That's where I really picked it up. So, I dabbled in it early in my 20s. On the side of my real job, I would do hand-painted pillows, indoor-outdoor pillows, and custom-painted orders.”
She continued to expand outside of her day job, decorating homes for Christmas and eventually having a home featured in the downtown loft tour. Hints of her future business venture started to emerge, even influencing her eventual choice of business name.
“Pink is one of my favorite colors, and Petunia was one of my grandmother’s (my Mimi’s) favorite flowers. She loved to garden and the name pays homage to her,” Britt said.
As Britt’s career in the gift industry progressed, she faced decisions that would ultimately open doors for the birth of her small business and her daughter, Walker. Britt and her husband were facing fertility issues, so she quit her corporate job and began the IVF process, which she described as a “round-the-clock” job. While home, she continued to paint custom pillows and pursue home decorating opportunities.
“That's really when Pink Petunia began, and I created a business at my home.”
Then came Walker.
“She is our miracle baby.” Britt gushed. Walker is now 4 and Britt says she’s completely comfortable at the Pink Petunia.
“Now that we're in the storefront, Walker loves to go up to Mommy's store. She calls it the Pink “Tetunia” with a “t”. She loves to come in and make herself at home, speak to the customers and play in mommy’s store. I hope one day that she will take it over. She definitely loves painting and art like I do. I hope that as she grows older, she'll come in here and work alongside me,” Britt said.
Over time, Britt knew hand-painted pillows weren’t sufficient, so she purchased an industrial monogram machine and added it to the list of services.
“Today I’ve expanded to interior decorating and seasonal decoration, especially around Christmas. My interior decorating clients I work with in a multitude of ways — from rebuilds to a refresh of rooms in their homes. I do rebuilds from the ground up, decorate single rooms, and decorate seasonally for fall and Christmas,” said Britt. “There's also the gift shop, custom monogramming, and custom art - where I have commissioned pieces I paint, and you can find a lot in my store. I take commissioned art pieces for homes and businesses. And I just added children's clothing, so that portion is called Little Petunias.”
With something for everyone, Britt is delighted that their new location means more traffic and relationships. Since moving into the Fayetteville community, her customer base has quadrupled.
“Many people that were not aware of my business have come in and shopped with us for the first time. On a day-to-day basis, I’m meeting tons of people who have learned about the Pink Petunia for the first time, and I love that. It's very exciting.”
She’s even seen the development of friendships through The Pink Petunia.
"Many of my clients that come to me as strangers become very good friends.” She loves that these relationships are ongoing, and considers her customers part of “The Pink Petunia family.”
Moving forward, Britt says they’re planning to incorporate fun events into the shopping experience and encourages the community to keep track of The Pink Petunia's Facebook and Instagram pages for updates.

(Photo: Above: The store front of the Pink Petunia is decked out in bright pinks. The store, located at 1325 Hay Street in Haymount, is the brain child of Jen Britt.
Bottom: The inside of the Pink Petunia showcases gifts, monogrammed items, and home decor items. Photos courtesy of Jen Britt)

If the summer’s all-things-France focus has you longing for another French connection, you’re in luck.
Au revoir, 2024 Paris Summer Olympics.
Bonjour, Lafayette Birthday Celebration!
But since it is the Lafayette Society of Fayetteville’s 17th annual observance of the famous Frenchman’s September 6, 1757 birthday, another salutation makes more sense:
Ravi de vous revoir — Welcome Back!
To commemorate the 267th anniversary of the Marquis de Lafayette’s birthday, various events will take place throughout the city from Sept. 6 to 7. Lectures, exhibits, a book talk, a trolley tour of the Lafayette Trail and a birthday party complete with cupcakes are all part of the festivities, which are free and open to the public.
Fayetteville is named for the Marquis de Lafayette, who was born Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier in Chavaniac, France. A major general in the Continental Army during the American Revolution and a leading figure of the French Revolution and the July Revolution of 1830, Lafayette was nicknamed “The Hero of the Two Worlds.”
While there are over 80 places in eight states named for Lafayette, our namesake city was the first and is the only one the Marquis visited on his 1824-25 Grand Tour of the United States.
According to Lafayette Society president Gwenesta B. Melton, MD, this year’s birthday celebration is the perfect precursor to Lafayette’s Grand Tour bicentennial anniversary and the events the Society has in the hopper for that commemoration.
“The 2024 birthday celebration highlights our excitement and anticipation for the Society's anniversary events planned for March 4-5, 2025. The Marquis de Lafayette was an incredible human being with very amazing humanistic ideals and goals that still resonate today, even 200 years after his last visit to America. We want people here to be proud of our namesake and the
city of Fayetteville,” she said.
The biggest difference for 2024? The Saturday birthday events will be held indoors at the First Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall. After the last three years of rain, which canceled and dampened many events, Fayetteville should be happy about the change.

Friday, Sept. 6
First up on the birthday schedule is a literary event at Fayetteville Technical Community College. Mark Trapp, author of A Destiny of Undying Greatness: Kiffin Rockwell and the Boys Who Remembered Lafayette, will present a lecture entitled “Kiffin Rockwell and the Lafayette Escadrille.” Trapp’s talk focuses on the World War I French Air Force unit of volunteer American flyers, the Lafayette Escadrille, an early World War I squadron that embodied the Marquis’ spirit and was named in his honor.
Hear Trapp’s lecture Friday, Sept. 6, at 1 p.m. in the multi-purpose room of FTCC’s Tony Rand Student Center, 2220 Hull Rd. The lecture, part of FTCC’s Community History Lecture Series, will be presented in partnership with the Lafayette Society.
For individuals who cannot physically attend this history lecture, the event can be viewed via live-stream at https://www.faytechcc.edu/history-department-community-history-lecture-series-live-stream/.
Next, Methodist University Professor Dr. Patrick O’Neil will discuss “Lafayette and the Dream of a United People Two Hundred Years Ago.” Exploring how Americans in 1824 hoped that a visiting Revolutionary hero would help the country out of one of its worst political crises, O’Neil’s lecture will help listeners consider possible solutions to today's problems.
The free lecture starts at 7 p.m. on Sept. 6, with an opening reception with refreshments at 6:30 p.m. in the Davis Memorial Library at Methodist University, 5400 Ramsey St.
The lecture is part of The Lafayette Society’s Lafayette Legacy Series, spearheaded by Methodist University Assistant Director of Library Services, Archives Librarian and Associate Professor of Information Science, Arleen Fields. The Lafayette Society president in 2023-24, Fields also curates MU’s Archives and Special Collections. The collection features the Lafayette Room, which houses the Lafayette Collection of over 70 artifacts like letters, monographs, books, commemorative items, maps and other items dating from Lafayette’s lifetime and beyond. A display of artifacts will be featured on Friday night.

Saturday, Sept. 7
Join the fun Saturday by hopping on a trolley tour of the Lafayette Trail with Fayetteville’s favorite historian, Major Bruce Daws of the Fayetteville Independent Light Infantry. Daws is the retired former director of the Fayetteville History Museum and historic property manager.
From 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Daws will guide Lafayette's birthday well-wishers to many places the French hero visited during his last visit to the town 200 years ago. Enjoy coffee and croissants while you learn Fayetteville's history.
The event is $20; tickets can be purchased online at https://www.lafayettesociety.org/lafayette-society-online-payment/ or City Center Gallery & Books, 112 Hay St.
The culmination of the two days of activities, the annual birthday party, is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall of First Presbyterian Church, 102 Ann St. The free event features Colonial and French-themed activities for the young and young at heart, with free cupcakes at 1:30 while they last.
Cutouts of Lafayette and Marie Antoinette add selfie photo fun. Melton gave Up & Coming Weekly a sneak peek into what party-goers can expect:
“We will have exhibitors, including Daughters of the American Revolution, Sons of the American Revolution, Rebecca Russell with Beespoke Vintage, the Bicentennial committee that is preparing for the March grand visit, the Lafayette Society, Camp Flintlock, the Boy Scouts and an activity area for children. With cupcakes in hand, we plan to sing Happy Birthday to the Marquis himself at the Lafayette Plaza as we cross the bridge and commemorate his birthday. We wish him the very best birthday, and we will be even more thrilled to ‘see’ him in March.”
The Lafayette Society, which promotes awareness of the many contributions to America’s freedom by the Marquis de Lafayette, is open for membership.
Per its website, The Lafayette Society was founded by Mrs. Martha Duell (1924-2015) in 1981 to honor the Marquis through the statue erected in Cross Creek Park, funding scholarships for high school and college students, helping establish the Lafayette Room in the Methodist University library and sponsoring lectures by Lafayette scholars.
The Society also commissions bronze and granite historical markers for the Lafayette Trail and brings awareness of his significant contributions to mankind and freedom by conducting similar events, programs and educational activities.
Learn more at https://www.lafayettesociety.org/.

(Top Photo: Party goers experience the Marie Antoinette and Marquis de Lafayette cutouts at the 2023 Lafayette Birthday celebration. Middle Photo: Attendees to the Lafayette birthday celebration in 2023 look at a display of some of the Lafayette souvenirs from 200 years ago, at Davis Memorial Library at Methodist University. Bottom Photo: Participants take the Lafayette Trail Tour. Photos courtesy of Hank Parfitt)

Coffee with a Cop is a powerful initiative that aims to break down the barriers between police officers and the communities they serve. By creating opportunities for open dialogue and personal interaction, these events foster a sense of trust and understanding that is crucial for effective community policing. Cops surprise customers using the drive-thru by handing them their orders.
The purpose of Coffee with a Cop is to remove agendas and allow the public to ask questions, voice concerns, and get to know the officers in their local area. This approach has proven to be a resounding success, as it enables citizens to see the human side of the badge and officers to understand more of the needs and perspectives of the people they protect.
The origins of Coffee with a Cop can be traced back to 2011 when officers from the Hawthorne Police Department in California sought to find new ways to engage with the community they served. This national campaign has since spread to communities across the country, with police departments recognizing the value of building relationships and fostering open communication.
As evidenced by the experiences shared by Officer Kelton Glorfield, these events provide an invaluable opportunity for officers to connect with the people in communities, particularly the younger generation. The excitement and respect shown by children towards the men and women in blue is a testament to the positive impact of initiatives like Coffee with a Cop.
I had the pleasure of speaking to Officer Kelton Glorfield at the event on July 9, and he shared that the idea of building relationships within the communities he serves daily is crucial to bridging the gap between the officer and the citizen.
Officer Glorfield moved to the Cumberland County area due to serving in the military and decided to make this home. He’s worked with the Hope Mills Police Department for eight years and enjoys participating in community events so he gets to know the people he serves.
I shared my story of being a child who honored and respected cops. I fondly remember every time I saw a cop, I’d smile and wave. I wondered if children still had the utmost respect for cops and if cops still got that same experience from kids. Officer Glorfield confirmed that he gets to enjoy the excitement children feel when they attend some of the many events the department holds, such as bike rodeos, Walk with a Cop, and when kids come to the parking lot of the precinct to receive snacks and drinks and shake a cop’s hand.
By continuing to host these events and prioritize community engagement, police departments can work to bridge the gap between officers and citizens, ultimately strengthening the bonds that hold communities together.
Officer Glorfield mentioned that they accept donations to continue purchasing small gifts for kids and provide free events to the public. To see all events held by the Hope Mills Police Department or how you can donate, visit their website at https://townofhopemills.com/179/Police-Department or Facebook page under “Hope Mills Police.”

(Photo: An officer with the Hope Mills Police Department serves coffee during a monthly Cofee with a Cop event. Photo courtesy of the Hope Mills Police Department)

With performances scheduled for September 19-22 and 26-29 at the Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex (Poe House), Fayetteville, The Odyssey promises to be a must-see theatrical event that will leave a lasting impression. Don't miss your chance to experience this classic story like never before.
The production of The Odyssey will captivate audiences with its original script and fresh take on this classic tale. Adapted by the talented Merlyn Q. Sell, the story follows the epic journey of King Odysseus as he struggles to find his way home to Ithaca after the Trojan War. Meanwhile, his devoted wife Penelope fends off a horde of persistent suitors vying for her hand and the throne.
Penelope's unwavering faith in Odysseus' return drives her to devise an ingenious plan, weaving an elaborate burial shroud by day and secretly unraveling it by night to stall for time. Their son, Telemachus, also embarks on his own quest to locate his missing father.
This timeless tale of homecoming and the meaning of family receives a fresh, innovative treatment from Sweet Tea Shakespeare. Audiences can expect the company's signature style, including cast doubling, personal storytelling, whimsical characters and dialogue, and integrated music.
Through Odysseus’ trials and tribulations, the play explores the complexities of human nature, the challenges of leadership, and the dedication of relationships and the love of family. The epic’s enduring appeal lies in its portrayal of the human spirit’s indomitable nature and the universal themes of homecoming, identity, and the search for meaning and purpose in life – all wrapped in a tale of adventure.
Merlyn Q. Sell is the Artistic Director for Black Hills Community Theatre in Rapid City, South Dakota. She has worked in theatre for roughly eighteen years in various capacities, most as a director and playwright. Sell interpreted the story in a way that encourages the audience to think deeply about the meaning of home.
“The story focuses on the idea of home, but I investigate the idea that when we think of home, it is more than just a geographical place - it is also people, sometimes about a particular time in our lives, certain tastes or smells, etc. So, I hope this might make the audience think a little deeper about what home really is to them and how valuable it can be. And, of course, there are a lot of funny bits, so the audience gets a good belly laugh or two,” Sell shares.
The Odyssey is not just a tale of adventure; it is a profound exploration of the human condition, a celebration of the power of stories to process our feelings and access new perspectives.
“I believe in the importance of stories as a way for us to process feelings and access new perspectives, and I love being a part of that - and more selfishly, as a performer, there is nothing more satisfying than making an audience laugh,” Sell adds.
As attendees delve into the rich tapestry of The Odyssey, they will be amazed by the vivid imagery, the complex characters and the masterful use of language. The poem's enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to transcend time and culture, touching the hearts and minds of readers across the ages. Sell promises to bring that to the stage.
Don’t miss this chance to experience Sweet Tea Shakespeare’s signature blend of traditional storytelling and contemporary flair. With drinks, snacks, and the support of the community partners—The Capitol Encore Academy, Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County, and North Carolina Arts Council—this event promises a night of unforgettable theatre. This is an outdoor event.
For all dates and times and to purchase tickets, call 910-420-4383 or go to https://sweetteashakespeare.com/tickets/.

The Greater Fayetteville Chamber will hold its annual State of the Community on Aug. 29 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Crown Complex Expo Center, 1960 Coliseum Dr. This premier gathering offers a unique opportunity to engage with community leaders, network with peers and gain valuable knowledge to drive your initiatives forward.
Last year's luncheon saw a record-breaking crowd of 600 attendees, and this year's event promises to be even more impactful. The impressive lineup of keynote speakers includes Mayor Mitch Colvin, City of Fayetteville; Mike Nagowski, CEO of Cape Fear Valley Health; Dr. Marvin Connelly, Superintendent of Cumberland County Schools; Megan Gerber, President of Longleaf Pines Realtors; Robert Van Geons, President and CEO of Fayetteville Cumberland Economic Development Corporation, and Christopher Chung, CEO of The Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina.
With the Greater Fayetteville Chamber's annual State of the Community event just around the corner, it's clear that our community is poised for continued growth and prosperity.
Fayetteville, the largest city in Cumberland County, is a thriving hub with a vibrant downtown, rich arts and culture, and strong ties to our service members. Recent investments, like the $40 million baseball stadium, are sparking additional growth and expansion opportunities.
The latest reports show that Cumberland County ranks eighth in North Carolina with 16.46% business growth, $6,584 gross domestic product growth, 5.40 new building permits per 1,000 homes, and a 1.61 gross domestic
product growth index.
President and CEO Nat Robertson of the Greater Fayetteville Chamber encourages residents to attend and contribute to conversations that will shape the future of communities.
Secure your spot today, as last year's event sold out. This will be the perfect setting to network and connect with the movers and shakers of our region. For more information or to register, visit the event page at www.faybiz.com or call 910-483-8133.

Dive into the vibrant world of classical music mixed with a modern twist as the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra brings its Symphony on Tap series to local hotspots for the 2024-25 season.
The Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra continues to break the confines of traditional concert halls with its Symphony on Tap season. This innovative series provides a fresh perspective on classical music by bringing it to unconventional spaces. Picture the harmonic strings of a quartet juxtaposed against the casual backdrop of a bustling bar or a cozy cider house.
The Symphony on Tap events are not just concerts; they are social experiences that allow attendees to enjoy the music in a relaxed setting. It's a way to discover or re-discover classical music while enjoying the familiar comforts of your favorite local hangouts. This melding of worlds is the heartbeat of the series, making classical music accessible and enjoyable for a broader audience.
The 2024-25 Season of Symphony on Tap promises various performances that cater to a wide range of musical tastes. The season kicks off Saturday, Aug. 31 at James Creek Cider House, located at 172 US-1-BR, Cameron, with the string quartet setting the tone for what's to come.
Next up is the Haymount Truck Stop on Sunday, Sept. 8, where the string quartet will delight the audience with renditions of works from Sir Elton John, Sir Paul McCartney, Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, and more. The Haymount Truck Stop is located at 100 Broadfoot Ave. and the music starts at 6:30 p.m.
Looking into 2025, the FSO has planned a special Mardi Gras celebration featuring their Jazz Quartet at Heckler's Brewing Company on March 4 at 7 p.m., and a nod to pop culture with a Star Wars Day event to take place at District House of Taps on May 4 at noon.
Each performance and venue is carefully curated to provide an entertaining and enriching experience. From the rustic elegance of the James Creek Cider House to the lively spirit of Heckler's, each location contributes to the unique experience of the series. The choice of venues is intentional and aimed at breaking down the barriers that often surround classical music performances. The environments chosen for these events are as important as the music itself. They set the stage for a more inclusive and engaging cultural experience. It's about enjoying a glass of cider or a beer, meeting new people, and immersing oneself in the art of sound—all in the comfort of a space that feels like home.
Attending a Symphony on Tap event is as easy as showing up. There are no tickets to buy or reservations to make, making spontaneous plans to enjoy the FSO completely feasible. Whether you're a classical music aficionado or someone looking for a unique night out, these events are tailored to be welcoming to all.
To make the most of the Symphony on Tap experience, arrive early to secure a good spot, order your favorite drink, and prepare to be transported by the music. It's an opportunity to socialize with fellow music lovers or simply sit back and let the melodies be the backdrop to a relaxing evening.
For those eager to stay in the loop with the FSO's Symphony on Tap series, following them on Facebook is the way to go here: https://www.facebook.com/FaySymphony. Their page provides the latest updates on event dates, times, and any new additions to the schedule.
As the Symphony on Tap series grows, so does its community, and being a part of that growth is a rewarding experience for any music lover.

Fayetteville Cares launches new website for volunteers
Fayetteville Cares, also known as the Day Resource Center, has launched a new website, Faycares.org, for people to volunteer, donate and support individuals and families in the city experiencing homelessness.
Manna Dream Center assumed operations on July 1 and provides showers, laundry, and meal services daily. Since that date, Manna has reported serving almost 5,000 meals, providing over 500 shower services, and over 400 laundry services during the month of July.
 “With this type of need and use, we are always looking for volunteers who can help transition and care for individuals and families experiencing homelessness,” said Pastor Cartwright, the director of Fayetteville Cares. “Please visit our website and discover the many ways you can help our most vulnerable residents.”
The website lists volunteer opportunities and ways to donate. Fayetteville Cares encourages people to visit and bookmark to learn the items and services that are most needed.

Library Receives America 250 Grant for Liberty Point Exhibit
The Cumberland County Public Library has received a $25,599.56 grant from North Carolina’s America 250 NC initiative for a project to commemorate the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026. America 250 NC is North Carolina’s commemoration of the United States’ 250th anniversary and is led by the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.
The Cumberland County Public Library’s grant is for a local exhibit focusing on the Liberty Point Resolves (whose 250th anniversary is June 22, 2025), along with a local artist produced mural on the side of the Headquarters Library that will incorporate themes from Fayetteville’s history from America’s founding to the present. As part of the local exhibit, there will be historical programs and lectures relating to the themes of America 250 NC and a local American Revolution bus tour in 2026.
The Local and State History Department of the Cumberland County Public Library will also produce a publication about the Liberty Point Resolves, to be released in time for America’s 250th anniversary, with a focus on celebrating Cumberland County’s contribution to the fight for independence in North Carolina during the American Revolution.
The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources’ America 250 NC initiative recently dispersed nearly $900,000 in grant funds across 34 counties in the state. The grant program is designed to spark commemoration programs and activities on a local level.
“These America 250 grants will serve as catalysts for local participation in the nationwide commemoration of our nation’s founding,” said DNCR Secretary Reid Wilson. “We look forward to working with communities across the state to build a memorable and meaningful celebration for all North Carolinians.”
For more information about America 250 NC, visit america250.nc.gov. For more information about the Cumberland County Public Library, visit https://www.cumberlandcountync.gov/departments/library-group/library or call 910-483-7727. Follow the library on social media at facebook.com/CumberlandCountyPublicLibrary.

Ask any public school staffer in Cumberland County, and they’ll tell you — the kids are not alright.
The kids are so not alright, in fact, according to Cumberland County Schools Social Work Coordinator Pamela Story, 31.93% of the county’s public school students were chronically absent in the 2023-2024 school year. North Carolina state law defines chronic absenteeism as missing at least 10% of the days for which a student is enrolled in a public school, provided they have been enrolled for at least 10 school days that year.
A CityView analysis of North Carolina Dept. of Public Instruction reports for all of Cumberland County’s 88 public schools (including charter schools The Capitol Encore Academy and Alpha Academy) found that 34 of those schools, or about 38%, reported chronic absenteeism rates higher than the 2022-2023 county average. Furthermore, 62 schools, or about 70%, have higher chronic absenteeism rates than the statewide chronic absenteeism average of 26.73%.
‘Very concerning’
Beverly Young, a truancy support specialist for Cumberland County Schools, told CityView the district has noted a spike in attendance issues in recent years.
“Since the pandemic, there’s been a dramatic change with attendance for the kids to transition back to in-person learning,” she said.
That has continued to be a problem for Cumberland County’s public schools, Story said.
“It’s a cause for alarm,” she told CityView. “ … It’s very concerning to us here in Cumberland County. The number of disengaged students that we have is just amazing.”
Young estimates she can make up to 15 visits a week to the homes of students struggling with absenteeism. According to Story and Young, the general process in Cumberland County Schools for absences is:
1. When a student misses a class, the teacher records the absence in the school’s attendance software. This triggers a phone call home to the student’s parent or guardian.
2. If a student misses three days without a note from a parent or guardian, the teacher will call home. If that call is unsuccessful, the school social worker will try to contact a parent or guardian through any means necessary, including social media and reaching out to the student’s emergency contact. The social worker will also send a letter home.
3. When a student reaches six unexcused absences, the school social worker will send a letter home.
4. If a student exceeds 10 unexcused absences, their parent or guardian may be referred to the Cumberland County Schools’ Truancy Mediation Council or referred to the district attorney’s office. Parents and guardians can be charged with a misdemeanor at this point.
Young said the Truancy Mediation Council has proven successful in mitigating absenteeism.
“We’ve had several [children], they have finished the school year, did well on their EOGs [End of Grade examinations], their attendance improved,” she said. “I’ve had several social workers come up to me the last week of school and say, ‘Thank you for TMC [Truancy Mediation Council]. The child returned and had a good relationship with the parent and we planned for the summer.’”
The council can provide families access to additional resources, like applying for food stamps through the county health department or working with a county social worker, Young said.
According to Story and Young, improving student attendance must be a “collaborative” effort. That includes community members, Young said.
“The community can encourage that parent and remind them that every minute counts that your child is in school,” she said. “The community, if they see kids roaming around and not in school, then they need to ask a child, ‘Why aren’t you in school? What’s going on?’ They can contact the school. We’ve had many people call.”
The county’s public schools are shifting from punitive measures to more proactive measures, Story said. That’s partially because of a desire to better address the complex nature of factors that can lead to chronic absenteeism, she said.
“Since the pandemic, we have students who have gone to work. We have teen moms and teen dads,” she said. “ … We’re hearing some students have to stay home and care for ill parents or babysit younger siblings. We have a serious transportation issue here in Fayetteville.”
Families have also been more reluctant since the Covid-19 pandemic to send children to school if they have minor symptoms like a headache or the sniffles, Story added.
“Back in the day, you said you were sick, you had to be home, in the bed sick,” she said.
And as with many issues involving education, mental health plays a role in absenteeism, too, Story said.
“We’re seeing a lot of mental health problems because they were sitting behind a computer, by themselves, on a phone for a year,” she said. “ … There’s complex trauma. There’s community stress for a lot of our children. Food insecurity. It’s a multitude of factors.”
Impact on parents
Some parents have spoken out on social media about Cumberland County Schools’ approach to absenteeism, describing it as inconsistent or burdensome on families.
In response to a Facebook post from CityView, one mother noted her daughter often missed school during the Covid-19 pandemic due to automatic absence requirements if a student presented certain symptoms of Covid. Another mother said her daughter missed 28 days of school due to social anxiety, but the school only sent a letter home once.
Ashley Patoka told CityView her daughter missed about 5 hours of class each week as a kindergartner at Raleigh Road Elementary School off Ramsey Street this school year. Patoka said her child had to leave school early several days a week so she could attend occupational therapy and counseling for her autism, ADHD and sensory processing disorder. Before getting on the right medication, her daughter also was suspended from school for eight days and placed on a modified schedule because of behavioral issues, Patoka said.
“She was really struggling,” she said. “She was very keenly aware that she was not allowed to be there all day.”
The necessary absences also posed a problem for Patoka, who works full time, and her daughter’s father, who was deployed through the military in the spring, she said.
“I’m so grateful I had my parents close by, and they were able to come up and help me,” she said. “ … It was rough.”
Cumberland County Schools Unveils Attendance Reforms to Combat Chronic Absenteeism
The Cumberland County Board of Education has taken significant steps to address chronic absenteeism by approving the first reading of revised attendance Policy 4400. The Board also proclaimed September 2024 as "Attendance Awareness Month," aligning with state and national efforts to emphasize the importance of regular school attendance.
CCS is launching a district-wide attendance campaign in September. The campaign will involve collaboration with key stakeholders, including truancy support specialists, school administrators, student services staff, teachers, data managers, families, students and community members.
Key elements of the revised Policy 4400 include:
• Limiting parent/guardian notes excusing absences to 10 per year
• Requiring submission of notes within five days for absences to be excused
• Potentially retaining students in grades K-5 or denying course credit for students in grades 6-12 with 20 or more unexcused absences
Dr. Melody Chalmers McClain, associate superintendent for Student Support Services, emphasized the importance of this initiative: "Every minute a student spends in school is a step toward a brighter future. Improving attendance isn't just about meeting requirements—it's about ensuring our students have the best chance to succeed. We’re committed to partnering with families to get students to school on time, every day, so that together, we can set them up for lifelong success."
CCS is also actively working to re-engage students who have fallen behind through targeted dropout prevention programs and recovery initiatives.

Editor's note: This article was edited with new information received by Up & Coming Weekly from CCS on Aug. 14. The original article from CityView Today was published and updated July 30.

In 2021, the North Carolina General Assembly enacted a budget that funded core state responsibilities, instigated critical repairs and renovations of government facilities, built up savings reserves, and slashed tax rates on personal and corporate income.
Overall, it was a prudent and balanced plan. In a column published in mid-November 2021, I called it an example of “constructive conservatism” in action, although I did note I was “not sold on all the capital projects funded by the new budget.”
I was referring to a long list of nonrecurring grants to localities, campuses, and private organizations tucked into the budget bill and the accompanying committee report. Such “pork barrel” spending is hardly novel. And every project has passionate advocates. Still, the farther legislators stumble away from state funding for state-owned facilities — or from approving pots of capital funds to be awarded to local governments by a specified formula — the less defensible their handiwork becomes.
That is, at least, the theoretical argument against pork-barrel spending. I’ve made it many times. Now, thanks to intrepid reporting by the Raleigh News & Observer and The Assembly, we know that the 2021-22 budget contained an especially egregious example.
Buried on page H-54 of the committee report was a two-year, $25 million grant to “the US Performance Center in Kannapolis for capital needs.” That’s all the provision states.
Created by sports enthusiasts Ike Belk and David Koerner, the US Performance Center is a private company, not a charity. It operates the Human Performance Research Institute on the campus of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, where it trains athletes and conducts research. The founders’ medium-term goal, reported The Assembly, is to convince dozens of the boards governing Olympic sports to base their operations in Charlotte. Their longtime goal is for the Carolinas to host a future Summer Olympics.
You may think this a bold, exciting goal. You may think this a pipe dream. For now, set that aside and consider a simpler, more immediate question: should the taxpayers of North Carolina be compelled to fund the operations of a private company?
Yes, I know the budget provision confined the use of state funds to “capital needs.” That’s not what happened, however. The N&O reported that the US Performance Center spent $67,000 of the money on hotel bills (including $1,300 at a Ritz Carlton), $55,000 on vehicle loans, $34,000 on meals and entertainment, and more than $13,000 to pay late taxes and penalties to the Internal Revenue Service.
Moreover, the folks behind the US Performance Center didn’t stop at $25 million. They also created a nonprofit entity, the North Carolina Sports Legacy Foundation, and secured another $30 million in state money in the 2023-25 budget passed last year. The nonprofit had previously attracted only a trickle of private contributions (topping out at $167,500 a year) before snagging that $30 million. Of that amount, reported The Assembly, the nonprofit paid US Performance Center $9.8 million for “consulting services” and spent $2.9 million on salaries and benefits.
Like the much-larger NCInnovation — also funded almost entirely by taxpayers through a special provision, with little public discussion — these two related entities have essentially become creatures of the state, though with even less accountability.
The state budget office is reportedly scrutinizing the US Performance Center’s expenditure of its “capital” grant. And while no Olympic sport has yet moved its headquarters to Charlotte, I suppose anything is possible in the future.
It’s hardly premature, however, to question whether state lawmakers ought to have funded these projects the way they did. Was there truly no better use of $55 million in taxpayer money? No public facility, building, or infrastructure that needed refurbishing? For example, an estimated $20 billion maintenance backlog in our local water and sewer systems appears to have knocked North Carolina out of the top spot on CNBC’s ranking of best states to do business.
On this matter, the General Assembly blew it. The taxpayers deserve better stewardship of their hard-earned dollars.

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).