Commissioner Glenn Adams has been named Chairman of the Fayetteville State University Board of Trustees. Adams is the immediate past vice chair of the board.
Adams previously served as chair of the FSU Board of Trustees for the 2022-2023 term. Adams has served on the 13-member Board of Trustees since 2019, when he was first appointed. Adams was appointed by the Board of Governors to serve as an FSU Trustee through 2027.
“I am honored to be appointed chair of the FSU Board of Trustees and take seriously the roles and responsibilities that come with confidence in my leadership. Bronco Pride is community pride,” said Commissioner Adams.
“I am excited to continue working with my fellow Trustees and Chancellor Allison to ensure Fayetteville State University remains a world-class university that will help students exceed their potential, attain their dreams and enter an increasingly competitive world with the tools to succeed.”
Adams was first elected to the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners as a District 1 representative in 2014 and has been re-elected twice. He has served as chairman in 2017 and 2024, and vice chairman in 2016 and 2020.
Adams also served on the North Carolina Central University Board of Trustees from 2003 – 2011 and was chairman of the NCCU Trustees from 2009 – 2011. Adams was also appointed to the N.C. Central University Law School Commission in January 2025.

The Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra announced that the 2025-2026 season will mark the end of Stefan Sanders’ nine-year tenure as the orchestra’s music director.
His time at the symphony continues a legacy of artistic excellence and expansion of the FSO’s offerings to the greater Fayetteville and Fort Bragg communities. Sanders is stepping down from the FSO to assume more work as the Central Texas Philharmonic’s music director, a position he has held since 2018.
“As I prepare for the 2025–26 season to be my final one as Music Director of the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra, I reflect with deep gratitude on a truly meaningful chapter,” Sanders commented. “It has been an honor to work alongside the incredibly dedicated board, passionate and hard-working staff, and the exceptionally talented musicians who bring this orchestra to life. Together, we’ve built programs that inspired, expanded our audience, and deepened our connection to the community. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together and am excited for what lies ahead for this remarkable organization.”
Stefan Sanders joined the FSO for his first full season in 2017. His accomplishments with the organization include expanding the diversity of orchestral programming and placing a larger emphasis on collaboration and education throughout all ensembles, bringing in myriad guests including bluegrass legends, Broadway stars, and virtuosos from the largest orchestras in the country.
Last season, collaboration for Stefan and the symphony reached new heights with the world premiere of Fantasy in 4 Moods, a concerto commissioned for FSO oboist Ronnal Ford by Ahmed Al Abaca.
“Stefan has broadened the orchestra's repertoire, building on the excellence of our traditional classical concerts with innovative concepts to better serve our community,” reflected symphony board chair Mark Regensburger. “He has pushed the FSO far beyond what most organizations this size are doing. In the last season he combined live music with silent films, integrated Broadway vocals, percussion ensemble, and community choral groups with the orchestra, and led the premiere of several newly commissioned compositions by diverse composers. Music education and culture in Fayetteville have been enriched by his tenure here. More than this, Stefan was the face of the orchestra to audiences, engaging in conversations both onstage and in the community.”
Sanders’ presence will be missed by musicians and community members alike, due to his deep involvement with the arts in Fayetteville. FSO Operations Manager and bassist Stuart McLemore reminisced on Sanders’ time at the podium: “As a conductor, he's very intense and passionate. He's knowledgeable and cares very deeply about the music we make. Beethoven V comes to mind as an especially energized performance. I remember looking up as the third movement transitions into the fourth, seeing him with this huge grin on his face. Stefan was completely in the moment and relishing every second of it.”
Concertmaster Fabian Lopez shared similarly fond memories, saying “I have had the pleasure of performing with Stefan for many years. It has always been a pleasure to make music with him, as a conductor, musician and human being. He will be missed at all levels!”
The Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra was founded in 1956 and is a professional orchestra whose mission is to educate, entertain, and inspire the citizens of Fayetteville, NC, and surrounding counties. There are still plenty of opportunities to see the maestro this season before he passes the baton, beginning on September 20th with Total Eclipse of the Chart. The FSO also has many educational programs, free events, and community performances. Learn more at www.fayettevillesymphony.org.

(Photo courtesy of FSO)

In the past decade, Fayetteville has established itself as a "black-majority city," with African Americans constituting a clear majority of the population. According to 2020 U.S. Census data, approximately 42% of the city's residents are African American, while 38% are White.
Additionally, African Americans have a higher number of registered voters. Fayetteville becomes part of a growing number of 1,262 black-majority cities, which have increased by more than 100 in the last decade. What factors are driving this significant shift in population? There are various factors to consider.
For example, Black Americans have been relocating from Northern and Western cities to smaller Southern towns, reversing the trend of the Great Migration from the 20th Century.
However, none may be as striking as the phenomenon known as white flight. While the term "white flight" specifically refers to the movement of White residents from neighborhoods that are becoming more racially diverse, it is essential to recognize that middle-class Black families are also relocating in search of better housing, schools, and amenities.
The emergence of a new Black majority is bringing about a significant change in the political landscape. Fayetteville's African American mayor, Mitch Colvin, who is seeking re-election to a fifth term and is the only member of the Council elected at-large, enjoys a solid majority Black voter base. Furthermore, a significant number of African Americans believe that the mayor's office should represent and empower Black voices within the community.
It will be interesting to see how voters respond to Colvin's re-election bid, as three African American women are challenging him for the position.
The significance of the Black vote in Fayetteville is crucial and cannot be overlooked. Winning a city-wide election will be nearly impossible without securing a majority of this voter bloc.
Younger Black voters are more likely to register as unaffiliated and are less inclined to view the Democratic party as having sole ownership of the African American community. Black youth often vote at lower rates than other young people, making them less of a reliable voting bloc. The relationship between the established Black voters and newcomers is complex.
The younger generation seeks solutions to real-world issues and is less focused on racial politics. This type of diverse thinking is likely to benefit Fayetteville City Councilman Mario Benavente as he makes his first attempt at running for mayor. Benavente is young and has concentrated on issues such as fair policing and racial equity, which resonate with a younger demographic.
With a majority of Black voters, one might question the necessity of majority-minority representative districts.
They were created over forty years ago, when the majority of Fayetteville's population was white, and the political representation reflected this demographic. Will Fayetteville consider making adjustments to allow other forms of at-large representation besides the mayor, given the changing demographics of elected officeholders?

Tired of good news? You have come to the right place. Like Creedence Clearwater, I see bad news rising. I see troubles on the way. There’s a bad moon on the rise. We have it all.
Swarms of Earthquakes. Tsunamis. Wars. Rumors of wars. Fires. Floods. Sidney Sweeney’s jeans. Nuclear reactors on the moon. Danish Zoos feeding used up pets to lions. Volcanoes waking up. Still not enough for you? How about a giant alien spacecraft heading for Earth in late November just in time for Black Friday? If you think regular human illegal aliens are bad, wait until the illegal Space Aliens arrive.
That’s right, saddle pals. Cosmic troubles are heading right at us. No less an authority than the legendary blind Bulgarian psychic Baba Vanga predicted aliens would contact the Earth in 2025.
If you don’t believe in blind Bulgarian psychics (and you should), consider Harvard Astrophysicist, the esteemed Professor Avi Loeb. Dr Loeb reports that Interstellar Object 31/ATLAS is coming for our neighborhood at the rate of 130,000 miles per hour. That’s faster than Buffalo wings disappear at an all-you-can-eat buffet.
31/ATLAS is a big boy, 15 miles across, larger than Manhattan. Even bigger than Andre the Giant. ATLAS is coming from outside the galaxy with a speed and trajectory, Dr. Loeb says indicates it could be an alien Mothership.
ATLAS will fly by Jupiter, Mars, and Venus, allowing it to send probes into each of those planets on its way to Earth. When ATLAS gets closest to the Sun (Bonus science word of the day: Perihelion), it will be on the opposite side of the Sun from Earth, where it can’t be seen by our telescopes.
Dr. Loeb reports this position could be a deliberate strategy by the alien Mothership to deploy weapons or probes to either invade or zap the Earth. If you think Cartman had a bad time when he was probed by aliens, you ain’t seen nothing yet.
Ever heard of the “dark forest hypothesis”? This is the theory that advanced alien civilizations are intentionally concealing their existence from Earth because we are dangerous lunatics. The dark forest may be about to rip open a giant clear-cutting of the Earth by ATLAS. If Dr. Loeb is right, instead of a boring comet, ATLAS could be a cosmic Trojan Horse. Remember the Twilight Zone episode To Serve Man?
Seemingly friendly space aliens come to Earth to offer rides back to their home planet, where life is beautiful, the space girls are beautiful, and even the orchestra is beautiful. Unfortunately, their guidebook “To Serve Man” turns out to be a cookbook.
Dr. Loeb warns that if ATLAS is a Mothership, “It may come to save us or to destroy us. We better be ready for both options and determine if all interstellar objects are just rocks.” The perihelion date of 29 October is no coincidence.
It coincides with the anniversary of the collapse of the stock market on Black Tuesday 1929. If the aliens have a sick sense of humor, they may have intentionally picked that date to deploy the probes from behind the sun to attack the Earth. Like Congresspersons, the aliens may be manipulating the stock market by selling it short right before launching the probes to collapse your 401K.
Before you panic, not every astrophysicist agrees with Dr. Loeb. Some soreheads at the University of Regina in Canada contend ATLAS is just a plain old comet. But we can’t trust Canada, can we?
Those Maple Leaf Clusters are probably in league with ATLAS to hit the good old USA by scooping up all red-blooded Americans into some cosmic stew pot. The Canadians will just walk across the border to take all our stuff. The horror. The horror. Science misinformation about ATLAS gets even worse. Professor Chris Lintott of Oxford University is quoted as saying that Dr. Loeb’s theory is “nonsense on stilts,” that ATLAS is just a comet.
Other than UNC’s Bill Belichick’s relationship with the beautiful Jordon, I personally have never seen nonsense on stilts, so I am looking forward to it.
So, what’s it gonna be? A boring comet or the Mother of all Motherships? Baba Vanga and Dr. Loeb have their answer. Apply Blaise Paschal’s wager on the existence of God. Blaise said: “It is smarter to believe in God because the benefits are much greater than the losses if you are wrong.”
Watch what the Congresspersons do in late October. If they are selling stocks short, the interstellar poop is about to hit the fan.
Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

(Illustration by Pitt Dickey)

While the North Carolina House and Senate continue to discuss how — or whether — to resolve their budget dispute and enact a new fiscal framework for the next two fiscal years, now is an excellent time for tax reformers in both chambers to spell out precisely what they hope to accomplish.
Some conservatives in the state capital and elsewhere want North Carolina to stop taxing personal income altogether. They point to the economic success of Florida, Texas, and other states that have never levied taxes on personal income. Since income taxes make up half of state revenues, how should North Carolina make up the difference? This faction advocates some combination of higher sales or excise taxes, greater local responsibility for education and other services (financed by higher property taxes), and lower state expenditures.
As I have previously argued, I don’t think it is realistic or necessary for North Carolina to abolish its personal-income tax altogether, although I strongly favor eliminating our much smaller but counterproductive tax on corporate income (it only generates about 5% of General Fund revenue, and does so rather inefficiently).
I agree that income taxes as currently structured are unfair and economically destructive. By taxing resources invested in productive capital multiple times — as personal income, as corporate income, and as dividends or capital gains received on investment principal that has already been taxed — the current system basically encourages us to eat our seed corn rather than planting it for a larger return in the future.
We should be taxing consumption, not total income. So, why don’t I favor replacing most or all of North Carolina’s income-tax revenue with sales-tax revenue? Because that’s not really going to happen, at least not with the tools available. State taxes on retail sales don’t actually apply to all consumption, to every good and service sold at retail. Large swaths of the services households purchase are not and will never be subject to sales tax. That’s borne out by decades of experience with sales-tax systems in other states.
Here’s another way to explain my point: our income-tax base is too broad, yes, but our sales-tax base is too narrow.
When households receive income, they can do one of three things with it: spend it, donate it, or save it for later (which funds investment in physical, financial, or human capital to produce future earnings for consumption or donation).
In 2023, total personal income in North Carolina was about $670 billion. Total spending on personal consumption was roughly $554 billion, of which $204 billion was spent on goods and $350 billion on services. Some of those services are, indeed, taxable. But purchases of medical care ($88 billion) and financial services ($40 billion) are mostly exempt from the sales tax, as are legal and other professional services that make up lots of spending but aren’t separately reported by the Bureau of Economic Analysis.
On the other hand, some business-to-business purchases are subject to North Carolina tax — and they shouldn’t be! A retail sales tax should be just that, a retail tax. Otherwise, you create market distortions and, on the margin, encourage horizontal and vertical integration of business enterprises that could function more efficiently as separate entities.
If I could be persuaded that the North Carolina General Assembly will do something no other state legislature has managed to do — expand its sales tax to encompass all goods and services sold at retail — I might well embrace an end to the income tax. Given the practical and political realities of the situation, however, I favor a different strategy.
Its underlying formula is a simple one: income equals consumption plus charitable giving plus net savings. To tax consumption, then, we can start with total income, subtract charitable giving and net savings, apply a standard deduction adjusted for family size, then tax what’s left — which is, by definition, consumption.
I recognize that’s easier said than done. But it’s still more realistic than taxing hospital bills, I promise.

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

Hobby Town is hosting the Gunpla Builder World Cup Tournament on Aug. 16, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at 935 Bragg Boulevard. General admission is free. Builders can share their models and register in the store. The winner of the tournament will receive a trophy and will be submitted to Bandai, a Japanese toy manufacturer with their headquarters in Tokyo.
Gunpla or Gundam plastic models are popular due to the combination of factors such as the enduring appeal of the Gundam franchise, the community aspect of model building, and the low cost and accessibility of entry-level kits. The Gundam series has complex storylines, diverse mobile suit designs, and exploration of real-world themes. Gunpla allows fans to connect with the universe by building and customizing their own models, creating a sense of community among the builders.
Gunpla is a portmanteau of Gundam plastic models. The models consist of pre-colored parts that are assembled without the need for glue, making them accessible to a wide range of enthusiasts from beginners to seasoned modelers. It offers multiple options for customization, such as simple panel lining to intricate painting and weathering techniques.
Gundam is a franchise created by Yoshiyuki Tomino, and features a variety of mobile suits with unique designs and capabilities. These mobile suits are the focal point of Gunpla.
Gundam is a highly influential and expansive franchise in the realm of anime known for its “real robot” genre and exploration of war, politics, human relationships through the lens of giant, piloted robots (mobile suits). The themes are representative of different timelines, universes, and flawed and imperfect choices.
Classic anime that influences Gunpla are Witch of Mercury, Iron-Blooded Orphans, Gundam, Requiem for Vengeance, The Endless Waltz, Mobile Suits Gundam 00, and Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin.
Model building can be excellent for the brain, and Gunpla models are no exception.
Build and submit a model in the Gumpla Builders World Cup Tournament. Attend the event and view the creativity of the model builders. Judges will choose the model for submission to Bandai, and the winner will receive a trophy. All participants take home swag from Bandai and meet like-minded builders.

Summer may be winding down, but Rock’n on the River is still going strong with another great lineup for Friday, Aug. 15 starting at 6 p.m.
Dalton Davis is set to kick off the evening with his unique blend of soulful and outlaw country music. Originally from North Carolina, Dalton has been making waves in the country music scene with his evocative storytelling and rich musical background. His songs, inspired by his upbringing in rural America and experiences with gospel musicians, offer a fresh take on traditional country, infused with elements of '90s country, gospel, and R&B.
Having opened for notable acts like Midland, Dwight Yoakam, and Roger Allen Wade, Dalton has honed his craft and built a solid reputation. He recently signed an exclusive global publishing agreement with Universal Music Publishing Nashville and secured a record deal with Version 3. Some of his notable releases include the EP “Where Has My Country Been” and singles like “Wild Child” and “Phone Number to Heaven”.
Following Dalton Davis, ZZ Top Notch will take the stage to deliver an authentic ZZ Top experience. Formed out of a deep admiration for the legendary 'little ol' band from Texas,' ZZ Top Notch has made a name for themselves with their faithful recreations of ZZ Top's iconic sound and stage presence.
The band, consisting of The Reverend Willie Gibson (Chuck Sirko) on guitar, Dusty Thrills (John Hubacheck) on bass, and Frank Beardless (Joe Snyder) on drums, brings over 100 years of collective professional experience to their performances. Their setlists include beloved hits like “La Grange” and “Sharp Dressed Man,” as well as fan-favorite deep cuts. Audiences praise their high-energy shows and engaging stage presence, making them a must-see act for any ZZ Top fan.
Rock'n on the River promises an evening that beautifully blends country and rock music. With Dalton Davis's soulful country tunes and ZZ Top Notch's rock anthems, attendees are in for a treat that spans genres and generations. It's a night that celebrates musical diversity, bringing together fans of both country and rock under one roof.
This unique combination has something for everyone, from fans of heartfelt country ballads to electrifying rock riffs. The seamless transition from Dalton Davis’s country melodies to ZZ Top Notch’s rock classics will keep the energy high and the audience engaged throughout the night.
Held at Campbellton Landing on the beautiful east bank of the Cape Fear River, this free event brings top-notch live performances in a picturesque outdoor setting. All guests need is $10 for parking and a comfortable seat—a chair or blanket will do. Once settled in, a variety of food and drink options are available for purchase to complete the evening. It’s everything for a night out, minus the usual hassles.
And here’s the best part: when you choose to indulge in a beer, you’re not just enjoying yourself—you’re helping others. Half of the beer proceeds go directly to the Karen Chandler Trust Cancer Charity, providing vital support to families affected by cancer. So, if you’re looking for an event that checks every box—relaxation, entertainment, and purpose—this is it.
Don’t miss the last Rock’n on the River concert:
September 19: Heart Breaker (Heart/Led Zeppelin tribute) and Fear State (rock)

The Fayetteville Metro Alumni Chapter and the Fayetteville Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. are inviting the community to gather once again for a one-of-a-kind celebration of unity, music, and flavor. Beats & Eats Vol. 2, the city's premier food and music festival, will return to Festival Park on Saturday, Aug. 23, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Designed to bring together families, neighbors, small businesses, and music lovers, this end-of-summer event offers a day of rhythm, culture, and connection in downtown Fayetteville. With expanded entertainment, diverse food vendors, and activities for all ages, Beats & Eats is more than just a festival; it’s an intentional effort to build community and uplift the next generation.
“Beats & Eats isn’t just about good food and great music,” said James Wilson, Chairman of the event and Keeper of Exchequer of the Fayetteville Alumni Chapter. “It’s about who we are as a city, diverse, creative, and committed to one another. We want people to leave this event feeling full, not just from the food, but from the experience.”
This year’s event focuses on family-friendly fun, featuring live DJs, line dancing, and a dedicated kids’ zone called Frank Summer Lanes. This space was named in honor of Brother Frank Summers, a devoted member of the fraternity who left a legacy of serving youth with compassion and joy. The children’s area will include hands-on games, inflatables, learning stations, and space for families to relax and enjoy the festivities together.
“Our goal was to make this event safe, inclusive, and welcoming to everyone,” said Lionel Taylor, Social Committee Chairman. “We expanded the event footprint to involve not only the local Greek-letter community but also neighborhood clubs, auxiliaries, and grassroots organizations.”
Taylor, who has overseen many of the advertising elements, says the social planning committee emphasized accessibility, safety, and family connection throughout the process.
“We want people to know they’re not just attending an event, they’re helping us shape the cultural heartbeat of this city,” he said.
Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy a diverse range of food options throughout the park, featuring everything from comfort food classics to sweet treats and innovative cuisine. Local vendors and food trucks will serve up dishes that represent the diverse palate of Fayetteville’s population, giving guests plenty of options to explore.
In addition to food and entertainment, the festival also serves a greater purpose: giving back. Proceeds from Beats & Eats Vol. 2 will directly support the Fayetteville Alumni Chapter’s Kappa League/Guide Right program, which provides mentorship, leadership training, college prep, and scholarships to young men in the Fayetteville area.
“We see this festival as a tool to invest in the future of our youth,” said Dr. Rodney McCrowre, Vice Polemarch of the chapter. “The energy of the day carries forward in the form of educational access, personal growth, and lifelong mentorship for our Kappa League participants.”
Reddick Mack, who helped organize the entertainment lineup, emphasized the spirit of celebration that defines the day.
“We’ve created an atmosphere where every generation can enjoy themselves. From the dance floor to the food tents to the kids' zone, it’s a space where people feel they belong.”
While the event is free to the public, sponsorship and VIP tent packages are available through Eventbrite, offering enhanced experiences for families and organizations who wish to support the event at a deeper level. The festival grounds at Festival Park will be set up with hydration stations, shaded seating areas, and plenty of space for dancing, dining, and connection.
As the summer winds down and the back-to-school season begins, Beats & Eats Vol. 2 offers the perfect moment to come together, reflect, and move forward—stronger as a community.
“This is how we close summer with joy, intention, and unity,” said Wilson. “Grab a plate, bring your loved ones, and help us celebrate everything that makes Fayetteville home.”

“Look, Deputy Lawson, I have nothing to do with all of this. I was just having a beer, minding my own business until this woman sat down next me and said, ‘can you help me…She did not even finish her sentence. The next thing I know she is lying on the deck. I do not know who she is or why she sought me out.” Seems like I have heard this story before. You have a nasty reputation of people dying around you.” —Behcet Kaya, Treacherous Estate, Jack Ludefance, #1
Join the North South Brewery and J.J. Brown Production Company for the "One Sip Too Many" Murder Mystery event on Aug. 15 at 2765 Custer Avenue. Check-in time is at 7 p.m. and the mystery begins at 7:30 p.m. This event is more than a mystery murder event; it is the launch of a new brew exclusive to North South Brewery. Advanced tickets are required for the event. The ticket prices are $35 for solo sleuths and $55 for a duo. Food and beverages are available for purchase. Advanced ticket purchases and information are available at jjbrownproduction.com.
The sponsors of "One Sip Too Many" are North and South Brewery and J.J. Brown Production Company. The company offers exciting murder mystery parties at public and private events.
The North South Brewery was born from a passion for homebrewing, which led to creating, enjoying, and appreciating every beer style. Owners James and Alicia Orlando grew up in New England, but family and military service brought them to Savannah, GA, according to the North South Brewery website. Ten years later, the military moved them to Fayetteville. James started homebrewing in 2011 in Savannah with just a bucket and a stovetop, and now blossomed into a full-fledged brewery and taproom.
The flagship beers available are 1.21 Gigahops, -IPA, Haze Girl Haaaaze-Hazy IPA, Cold Winter Cabin-Stout, Grain Juice-Kolsch, Sweet Fraulein-Hefeweizen, Czech Czech, One Two-Czech Pilsner, and Lager Than Life- Light Lager. They offer wine, ciders, seltzers, and non-alcoholic beverages. The taproom is open Sunday, noon to 8 p.m., and Tuesday-Saturday, noon to 10 p.m. Dogs are welcome.
The first toast is raised…and then…. the story begins. The brewery is full of secrets, and guests are part of the investigation. The Top Detective wins a trophy, a certificate and two free tickets to a future J.J. Brown Production event.
Please purchase tickets in advance at jjbrownproduction.com. Food and beverages are available for purchase.

The thrill of hunting for buried treasure is an adventure that humans will probably never tire of. Some find it in their local thrift store, others in traveling the world, and still others find it in intellectual pursuits.
Russell James, Park Ranger at Clark Park and Nature Center, found it in the forest. An avid geocacher and letterboxer, James is leading an upcoming program at the park that combines nature with exploration, teaching adults and kids the navigation and puzzle-solving skills necessary to enjoy both geocaching and letterboxing.
“I like having them learn about something they’ve never heard of before,” James said.
According to Letterboxing North America, “Letterboxing is an intriguing 'treasure hunt' style outdoor activity. Letterboxers hide small, weatherproof boxes in publicly accessible places (like parks) and post clues to finding the box online on one of several websites. However, clues to finding some of the most highly sought boxes are passed around by word of mouth.”
The site explains that there are 60,000 active letterboxes listed on their website alone.
What’s inside the boxes? Usually, a logbook, a hand-carved rubber stamp, and an ink pad. Finders carry their logbook and stamp, and when they find a letterbox, exchange stamp imprints - leaving an imprint from their stamp in the letterbox logbook and an imprint from the letterbox stamp in their logbook.
Letterboxing primarily depends on written clues. While geocaching shares the concept of hidden, weatherproof, physical containers, they are instead found using a set of coordinates and the contents of the boxes are not limited to stamps.
According to geocacheadventures.org, “geocaching began when selective availability was removed from the Global Positioning System on May 2, 2000, making GPS navigation available for public use. A few days later, geocaching was born by Dave Ulmer, a computer consultant in Oregon, who wanted to test the new accuracy. He hid a container in the woods near his home and posted the coordinates on a website. Within just a few days, the container had been found by two people and the activity of geocaching had been born,” the site explains.
When explaining the main distinctions between how letterboxes and geocaches are found, James says, “It’s kind of like the difference between primitive skills versus technological skills.”
He compares letterboxing to an “old-time, pirate movie” type of experience, while geocaching relies on more advanced skills —either traditional orienteering skills combined with a handheld GPS, or newer options like the Geocaching app.
He personally enjoys introducing people to letterboxing the most. It’s an adventure he’s enjoyed with his own family over the years, a hobby that brings them close to nature.
“We’ve found some unique parks by doing letterboxing,” he shared.
The process of hunting for both letterboxes and geocaches, he believes, can help people increase their observational skills and enjoy their environment more.
“I think finding these new areas, or finding something unique in nature that you don’t quite see all the time, is great,” he shared. “You may walk by something all the time, but you don’t notice it until you’re actually looking for it.”
He enjoys using the event as an opportunity to teach people more about nature, too, by incorporating cues like “look for the shiny magnolia leaf” into his letterboxing clues, which enable attendees to identify a Magnolia leaf whether or not they’ve seen one before.
The event will start with an introduction to both geocaching and letterboxing and then move on to DIY stampmaking. Attendees will learn about designing a stamp and transferring the design to a rubber surface. Next, they’ll carve their design using the appropriate tools so that it’s ready to leave a unique impression in the next logbook they find. A creative himself, James said he was “looking forward to seeing everybody’s creativity.”
After the introduction and stamp making, they’ll hit the trails. James says he has designed the experience to make the letterboxing and geocaching dependent on each other. Geocaches will include clues to find the next letterbox and vice versa. Always looking for ways to make the hunt more engaging, some of the clues will even include queries that participants have to answer correctly before moving on to the next clue.
“I’ve got these worst-case-scenario survival things on there, like how to eat a lizard,” James said of the queries.
The event is introductory level, will not be overly strenuous, and James says it’s suitable for ages 8+.
“I'm hoping to get more beginners,” he said.
Attendance is $5/participant for the event, which will be held Aug. 16, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Clark Park Nature Center located at 631 Sherman Drive. Learn more at https://www.fayettevillenc.gov/Parks-and-Recreation or their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/fcprnature

It’s not news that over the past several years, food trucks have become an increasingly popular option for food sales. For those in the food industry, it offers a simpler, less expensive way to open a food business than opening a brick-and-mortar restaurant. In 2023, Fayetteville took a big step forward in the food truck industry with the opening of the Haymount Truck Stop, a food truck court and bar on Hay Street.
It was an instant hit and continues to be a popular spot to grab a quick lunch, go out for a unique dinner experience, or spend an evening out with friends.
The popularity of the Haymount Truck Stop did not escape the notice of Leila Scarborough and the team at North View Lanes, a family-owned bowling alley at 5307 Ramsey Street. They decided that their big, open parking lot was the perfect setting to allow food trucks to set up, offering an additional option to sell their wares and bringing more variety of food options to the north side of town. So, on June 5, North View Lanes welcomed its first food trucks, and it has been a hit ever since.
Here’s the arrangement: North View Lanes, located directly across from Methodist University on Ramsey Street, hosts a total of three food trucks at a time, every Friday and Saturday. Due to limitations imposed by city ordinance, that is the most they can have at one time.
However, the managers like the arrangement; they want to keep the event fairly small to ensure that it is a beneficial experience for the food trucks. There is no cost to the food trucks.
The parking lot is large enough for trucks with trailers to stay connected, and there is still plenty of parking for customers. They arrange to have two savory food trucks and one sweet food truck each Friday and Saturday evening, to provide variety and choice for customers, as well as an opportunity for dessert.
Food truck customers are welcome to come into the bowling alley and make use of their seating area, air conditioning, and restrooms, whether or not they are bowling. Of course, a meal from a food truck plus a round or two of bowling make for a great weekend outing!
In the weeks since Family Food Trucks and Fun Night kicked off in June, North View Lanes has hosted a wide variety of food trucks, some of whom have been well-established for years and others who are just getting started. Their lineup has included a wide array of food, including burgers, soul food, tacos, and empanadas, just to name a few.
Sweet Frog is always a favorite, but there are lots of other dessert food truck options to enjoy as well: D’licious Icys, The Sugar Shack, and Baby Freeze, for example.
On Aug. 8, North View Lanes will be the setting for a ribbon-cutting for a new dessert food truck, Sprinkle Me Pink. Described on their Facebook page as a “mobile dessert experience,” Sprinkle Me Pink will offer handcrafted cheesecake, cake slices, and cookies.
The ribbon cutting will take place at 5:30 p.m., and customers can get dinner from Yummy Hibachi or Abby’s Empanadas before digging into their dessert from Sprinkle Me Pink. Or, go straight for dessert!
If food truck owners are interested in getting in on the fun at North View Lanes, they can reach out via email to northviewlanes@hotmail.com. Spaces are fully booked for August, but they are still taking reservations for September and October. Customers are encouraged to track which food trucks will be coming to North View Lanes on their Facebook page, which announces each week’s offerings. North View Lanes' Family Food Trucks and Fun Night offers a win-win for both local food businesses and the Fayetteville community, where good food and family fun come together.

(Graphic courtesy of North View Lanes' Facebook page)

In a powerful step forward for community development, healing, and innovation, the City of Fayetteville has partnered with Dr. Tony Haire to open the WAY2REAL Community Center, a new 10,000-square-foot facility located at 2400 Murchison Road. Designed to be a cornerstone for behavioral change, educational enrichment, and multimedia creativity, the center is already making waves across Cumberland County.
WAY2REAL, which stands for We All Yearn 2 Rise, Excel, Achieve, and Lead, is more than an acronym. It is a philosophy rooted in the transformation of individuals, families, and neighborhoods. The center offers an impressive range of services, including low-cost mental and behavioral health care, STEAM--Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math--tutoring, youth and adult leadership programming, and hands-on training in music production, podcasting, and digital content creation.
"This isn’t just a youth center. It’s a life center,” said Dr. Haire, director of the center. “We’ve created a space where minds can be renewed, creativity can flourish, and families can find resources and restoration all under one roof.”
One of the center’s central missions is to address how people think, especially youth. With Dr. Haire’s background in behavioral therapy, the programming at WAY2REAL is built to challenge and reshape limiting beliefs.
“Everything starts with thought,” said Dr. Haire. “You can’t change behavior until you change thinking. The number one thing we do every day is think, but are we thinking correctly?”
This approach informs not only the counseling and mental wellness services offered, but also the broader structure of programming. Each activity, from creative writing to music composition to robotics, is embedded with the goal of building emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and decision-making skills.
Among the most unique features of the center are its two multimedia spaces: the Benny Pough Recording Studio and the Mathew Knowles Library and Podcast Studio. Named after leading figures in the music industry, Pough, a music executive formerly with Roc Nation, and Knowles, the father of Beyoncé, the studios serve as hubs for creative expression and entrepreneurial training.
Youth have access to professional-grade equipment and expert mentorship to learn everything from recording music to launching monetized YouTube channels or podcast series.
“For young people, especially those in underserved communities, storytelling and creativity can be an open door to purpose,” said Dr. Haire. “We’re equipping them with the tools to build something of their own.”
Vic Frost, one of North Carolina’s top podcasters, leads technical operations and training in the studios.
“It’s the first of its kind in Fayetteville,” Haire noted. “Our youth can create, produce, and distribute their own stories, music, and messages in a professional setting for free.”
Adults and organizations can also rent the space for commercial podcasting needs, receiving guidance in content development, post-production, and digital monetization. WAY2REAL’s focus on youth is deeply intertwined with its support for families. The center offers parenting workshops, mental health education, leadership training, and digital literacy sessions. Parents are required to sign their children in and out of sessions, reinforcing structure and presence.
“We can’t just transform the kids. We’ve got to work with the adults too,” said Dr. Haire. “We’re teaching parents how to parent again. That may sound simple, but it’s revolutionary.”
The center’s leadership curriculum is grounded in the globally respected John Maxwell philosophy.
“We’re not just offering leadership, we’re offering the best version of it,” said Haire, who is a certified Maxwell speaker and trainer. “And we’re doing it in a way that’s accessible to everyone.”
The facility also houses a fully equipped computer lab and STEAM program launching this fall under the direction of Dr. Felicia Harris. The lab is available to students for academic projects and schoolwork, with support from retired teachers and volunteers. Scheduling is managed through an on-site kiosk, ensuring efficiency and access to consistent programming.
Beyond academics and media training, the center meets basic needs through a robust food and clothing pantry. In partnership with Manna Church and local leaders, the pantry provides food to families weekly and school uniforms to children in need.
Michelle Smith, a Fayetteville resident and volunteer, oversees the clothing program with a personal passion.
“She came to me in tears and said, ‘This is what I’m called to do,’” Haire said. “And she’s done it with excellence. Every shirt is pressed. Every garment is wrapped. That’s dignity.”
Manna Church delivers regular pallets of food to the center, and beginning in September, the center will host monthly food giveaways.
WAY2REAL is not an island; it’s a network. The center works closely with Fayetteville Technical Community College, Cumberland Nursing Academy, and regional workforce development agencies. Army recruiters and public-school representatives also maintain a presence, providing career and education pathways for students and young adults.
“This is about bringing everything under one umbrella so that our families don’t have to go to five different places to get help,” Haire said. “We’ve created one ecosystem of opportunity.”
In addition to the physical offerings, WAY2REAL introduces youth to long-term planning through a visionary exercise called “The History of Your Future.” Students are asked to imagine themselves in the year 2040, identify their dreams, and reverse-engineer the steps needed to achieve them. “When you can see your future, you can change your present,” Haire said.
The center is open Monday through Friday and hosts events and workshops throughout the month. All youth programming is free, and adult services are either free or low-cost depending on the offering.
As Dr. Haire says, “There’s only one of you in 8.2 billion people. That means you don’t have to compare yourself to anyone. You just have to be the best version of you. That’s what WAY2REAL is all about.”
To learn more, volunteer, or get involved, visit www.way2real.life.

On Sunday, Aug. 17, the Gates Four Country Club ballroom will be transformed into a beach music wonderland, complete with live music, food, and dancing-Shag dancing, of course.
From noon until 6 p.m., beach-goers can eat, tap their toes to the sounds of classic beach music performed by KHP recording artists Classic Soul, and take a spin on the dance floor, all in the comfort of the air-conditioned ballroom, and all for a great cause. The Beach Blast is a fundraiser that will benefit the CARE Clinic of Fayetteville.
Beach Music 101
Beach music is a style made popular in the Carolinas in the 1950s. It combines many styles that may include Rhythm and Blues, Soul Music, and a little bit of Disco. Truly, the genre defies strict definitions.
According to Dr. Warren McDonald, local beach music performer, “When you ask the question, 'What is Beach Music?' you will hear a wide variety of answers. Some may try to define the genre; some may simply describe the feeling they get when they hear that special sound. Old School DJs will tell you something different than guys that have only been playing in bands for a few years. Shag dancers will have different definitions from the fans of the bands. You may hear varied answers depending on which state the person lives in or was born in.”
Suffice it to say that beach music blends cultures, styles, and sounds from a lot of different traditions. In the decades since it was made popular by bands such as the Embers, the Catalinas, and the Entertainers, it has moved from outdoor beach venues at Myrtle Beach—and others up and down the North and South Carolina coasts—to venues all over the US and even some international destinations.
Classic Soul
Classic Soul is the musical trio that will provide the entertainment for the Beach Blast. The group is composed of three musicians who have been performing beach music separately and together for years.
Warren “Doc” McDonald founded the group, The Expressions, in the late 1960s, which quickly became very popular across North and South Carolina, and beyond. The group performed with music legends, such as the Drifters, the Coasters, the Temptations and Four Tops, Clifford Curry, and many more. He was an early collaborator at the Emerald Isle Beach Music Festival.
In the 1980s, he played with Sea Breeze and later with the final iteration of the Fabulous Kays.
Terri Gore is known throughout the world as the “Original Carolina Girl.” She possesses a rare vocal ability that distinguishes her both as a top performer and recording artist.
She has won numerous awards for her music, including 19 Carolina Beach Music Awards; Female Vocalist of the Year 5 consecutive times from 1996 to 2000; and two Solo Album of the Year awards. Gore has recorded with artists such as the Embers, the Catalinas, the Chairmen of the Board and the Legends of Beach. Terri had her own group for many years, The Kruse Band, and was also featured for many years with The Coco Loco Party Band.
Fessa’ John Hook of the Rhythm and Beach Network said it best when he stated, “Terri Gore has become a part of both the culture of the Carolinas and our musical conscience.”
Keith Pollard started playing music around 1972 in a hometown band called Harmony, Inc., playing bass guitar and singing. Later, he was in a group that specialized in playing oldies and Motown.
In the 80s, he joined some former members of the Castaways, a group called “Split Image,” also playing oldies, Motown, country and covers of popular music of the time. Before long, he connected with Beach Music Hall of Fame musician Al Williams, and they, along with Ron Stancil and Charlie Clark, formed the Time Machine Band.
Keith played keyboard and trumpet for over 15 years with this group. This led to a move to work with Tommy Black and Blooz, and finally The Carolina Breakers. His hits include “I Love You 1,000 Times” (CBMA nominated), “Beach Boogie and Blues” which Pollard wrote, “I’ve Been Lovin You Too Long” and “You’re The One.”
Shag Dance
Beach music and Shag dancing go together like peanut butter and jelly; you can have one without the other, but why would you want to?
True to that idea, there will be opportunities to hit the dance floor at the Beach Blast. If you are new to shag dancing and have always wanted to learn, you are in luck. Award-winning performers and instructors Chris and Angela Jestes will be at the Beach Blast to demonstrate their skill and help others learn this high-energy, fast-paced dance.
Joining Chris and Angela on the dance floor will be National Shag Dance Champion, Tucker Brown and his partner.
The CARE Clinic
All of the proceeds raised at the Beach Blast will be donated to the CARE Clinic of Fayetteville. The name stands for Compassion, Assistance, Referral, Education; according to their website thecareclinic.org
“Our mission is to provide free, quality healthcare to the low-income, uninsured adults of Cumberland and bordering counties.”
Since 1993, the clinic has offered basic medical and dental care, provided by medical professionals-doctors, dentists, nurses, pharmacists, dental assistants, and pharmacy techs-who volunteer their time and expertise to the clinic patients.
Located at 239 Robeson Street, the Clinic relies on volunteers, grant funding, and community support, including funds raised by events such as the Beach Blast.
It’s a winning combination for a great summer afternoon: food, outstanding music, fun dancing, all in an air-conditioned ballroom, and all for a good cause. Individual tickets are $100 in advance and $125 at the door, and are available by contacting thecareclinic.org or reaching out to wgmphd@aol.com. Corporate tables can also be purchased for $750.
Don’t miss out on the food, music, and fun on Sunday, Aug. 17, from noon until 6 p.m. at the Gates Four County Club.

(Top Photo: Classic Soul will be playing at the Beach Blast at Gates Four. From left to right: Warren "Doc" McDonald, Terri Gore, and Keith Pollard. Photo courtesy of Dr. Warren McDonald.  Bottom Photo: The Gates Four Golf and Country Club will be playing host for the CARE Clinic Beach Blast. Photo courtesy of Gates Four Facebook page)

In insurance, there is a saying that we are all one major medical event away from financial trouble. A cancer diagnosis can put an individual in debt before treatment even begins. According to the National Cancer Institute, the average cost of treatment can range from $100,000 to $300,000, depending on the location of the cancer. On top of being physically sick, patients then face the dilemma of how to maintain everyday life bills with the added burden of the cost of treatment. The ripple effect of a cancer can be felt throughout the patient's entire life, from family, to friends, to work, every part of their life is affected by the sickness. North Carolina residents are fortunate enough to receive some financial relief if they are treated at the UNC through Charity Care (https://www.unchealth.org/records-insurance/financial-assistance-programs). Charity Care is a financial assistance program that helps eliminate or reduce the amount residents pay for treatment at the hospital. This does not cover transportation, lodging, or household bills. That is where organizations and nonprofits come in to fill in the gap by providing resources, services, and offering monetary help.
The Karen Chandler Trust is a local nonprofit with a mission to help alleviate some of the financial stress. “The Mission of The Karen Chandler Trust is to support cancer patients and their families and promote community awareness.” Those who serve on the board are 100% volunteers, and 100% of all funds raised are given directly to patients through Cape Fear Valley Hospital for expenses such as gas, rent/mortgage, food, and utilities. The organization uses its fundraising events to not only raise money but to educate the community on the economic hardship that a cancer diagnosis causes. The Karen Chandler Trust doesn’t just fundraise and educate. They are also a resource for patients, connecting them with agencies that can provide long-term assistance. Mike Chandler, the founder of the nonprofit, is the brother of the organization's namesake and has been the figurehead for almost two decades. Recently, he stepped down, and the reins of Director were handed to the capable hands of local comic book store owner and Fear State frontman, Bernie Mangiboyat.
Normally, the nonprofit puts on a weekend-long beach music festival, but has scaled back this year, but scaling down doesn’t mean that the fun will. This year’s annual concert fundraiser will be held at Louie’s Sports Pub located at 2417 Robeson St., on Sunday, Aug. 17 from noon to 7 p.m. The goal is to raise more or at least match the fundraiser's record-breaking amount of $6,000, more than quadrupling the inaugural year of $1,300.
The concert will feature a full lineup of some of the best rock bands and a deliciously catered meal by Ragin’ Rooster (Bobby Jackson/owner). Kicking off the event is Southern rock band, Harely and Big Country. Performing from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. is local fan favorite, award-winning, and concert alum, Reflections ll. At 3:30, Rivermist hits the stage with their smooth vocals and electrifying energy. Headlining the event is The 3rd Crush Band, jamming the stage from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Come out, enjoy good food, good music, and raise money for a cause. The entry fee for the event is a $5 donation or more at the door. Advanced tickets will not be sold.

(Photo: Karen Chandler was a local musician and mother of two who was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her brother, Mike Chandler, started the Karen Chandler Trust in her honor. The trust has donated over a million dollars to cancer patients and families in the over 20 years since the start of the charity. Bernie Mangiboyat is the new president of the KCT and is continuing the legacy. Photo courtesy of Karen Chandler Trust Facebook page)

July 25 marked a momentous day for the NC History Center on the Civil War, Emancipation & Reconstruction. The foundation for the museum announced building would begin soon at the location picked out on Arsenal Ave. The location is important; it was here that Fayetteville’s arsenal was located during the Civil War, and remnants of the building can still be seen in the area.
Gen. William T. Sherman targeted the arsenal during his Southern campaign.
The Fayetteville area saw its fair share of events during the Civil War, as did much of the state of North Carolina. The museum, however, won’t focus on the battles that were fought in the area, but on the reconstruction that happened after.
“It will be the first and only museum in North Carolina that focuses on an important part of our history. Important and frankly overlooked at this point in time, and that's Reconstruction. It’s the story of our state putting itself back together after the Civil War,” said Pamela Brewington Cashwell, secretary of the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.
Brewington Cashwell is proud of Fayetteville, having grown up in the area.
“This is home for me, I grew up here and went to Pine Forest with Kathy Jensen. Fayetteville is important to me, this is an exciting project,” she said.
The museum has had its detractors; not everyone was thrilled with another Civil War museum opening. But Brewington Cashwell and Mac Healy, chair of the N.C. Center on the Civil War, Emancipation & Reconstruction Foundation, are a part of a team of people who believe the stories of the everyday people living in the area need to be told.
The museum’s goal is to collect 100 stories from all 100 counties in North Carolina; 10,000 stories in all. The museum plans to display as many of the stories as they can.
The museum has been a fifteen year project in the making, and the July 25 ceremony marked the next phase of the project.
The planning is finished, according to Healy. The construction is what is coming next, and the project will be a big one. The center will be a 60,000 square foot space with exhibitions, classrooms, a library, an archive and a lecture space. It will also feature a gift shop and cafe.
“The center will be a place not to learn about the great battles of the Civil War, but of the stories of the very diverse people living in North Carolina during this tumultuous time and what they experienced,” said Adam Brakenberry. “It will also be a place where friends can meet for a cup of coffee or ice tea, and where their kids can play in the park.”
Brakenberry represented Vines Architecture, the firm responsible for the design of the building, at the ceremony. The steel structure is expected to be in place by Spring 2026, with a potential grand opening in the Spring of 2028.
In the meantime, The N.C. Center on the Civil War, Emancipation & Reconstruction Foundation will continue to teach school aged children local history and continuing lectures for the public. The Hari Jones Lecture Series is an example of the work the foundation has been doing locally.
Healy was quick to thank so many people for coming together on the project. From the center staff, to cultural resource personnel, and even to Fayetteville and Cumberland County government and leadership, Healy was grateful for everyone coming together to “get the project off the ground.”
“We brought together 30 historians. You can well imagine that 30 historians on a tragic time like the civil war might have different opinions. They have worked together, or apart at times, for the last ten years, building the story. That is all part of the process we have been through,” he said.
“The only way that these sorts of projects work is by everyone working together and pulling in the same direction,” said Brewington Cashwell. “The long history of this project points to the resilience of people in North Carolina.”

(Photo: A photograph of the model of the museum's building shows a landscaped area and part of the building. Photo courtesy of Marc Barnes and Vines Architecture)

Greater Fayetteville Chamber
On Aug. 1, the Greater Fayetteville Chamber hosted a Candidates Academy with 18 candidates who are running for Fayetteville City Council to prepare for office. This all-day event brought local subject matter experts to share their knowledge on the workings of our community and government and outline what elected officials need to know about policy making in our All-America City.
These guests included new Police Chief Roberto E. Bryan, Jr., former state Representative Diane Parfitt, Fayetteville PWC senior communications and community engagement staff Tyler Patton and Lexi Hasapis, Fayetteville Economic Development President and CEO Robert Van Goens, NC Rep. Charles Smith (D-44) and President/CEO Bob Pinson of the Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County. Topics included identifying needs vs. wants, an overview of the downtown business district, the city’s economic outlook, crime and safety, the arts and our public utilities.
Cumberland County Commissioner Chair Kirk deViere led a session on the differences between City, County and State Jurisdictions, which he was uniquely qualified to lead as a former City Councilman and state Senator.
His presentation was particularly interesting as he outlined the sections of government, funding sources for each and what services each government entity provides. In his overview, deViere compared the City of Fayetteville, Cumberland County and the State of North Carolina with the following:
• The City of Fayetteville is a municipal corporation that oversees the operation and functions of the city as well as implements policies set by the state. Funding sources include property and business taxes, sales taxes (portion), user fees from trash, water, parks, etc., federal and state grants, licenses, permits and user fees. Services include the Fayetteville Police and Fire departments, transportation services, historic preservation, street maintenance, water/sewer/stormwater, street lights and garbage collection (curb-side pickup) among other things. The budget for the City of Fayetteville for fiscal year 2026 is $315.2 million Operating Budget and $91.8 million Capital Improvement Plan (adopted June 2025).
• Cumberland County, a subdivision of North Carolina, enforces state laws at the local level and provides services that the state and Fayetteville do not. It also includes multiple cities and towns. Funding sources include property taxes, sales taxes (portion), federal and state grants and licenses, permits and user fees.
Services include Cumberland County schools and libraries, Cumberland County Sheriff's Office, court buildings and jails, Fire Marshal's Office, emergency management, healthcare and human services, public health and medical services, children and family Services, employment assistance, food and medical assistance, veterans’ resources, emergency medical services, tax collection and more. The budget for Cumberland County FY 2026 is $608.8 million in expenditures across all County funds, with $404.6 million appropriated to the General Fund (adopted June 2025).
• The State of North Carolina makes state-wide policy decisions and needs local government to carry out policies. Funding sources include Income and business taxes, sales taxes (portion), licenses and user fees, federal government and lottery receipts. Services include NC courts, criminal records, victim services, personal, home and roadway safety, emergency management, NC National Guard, adult correction, juvenile justice, Health and Human Services, children's services, low income programs and services, special needs and accessible living, Aging and Adult Services Taxes (personal, property, business), Unemployment Insurance, Tax Voter registration, vital and public records, driver's license and ID, vehicle title and registration, NC Train, Ferry Service Recreation and state parks. The FY 2025 budget for North Carolina is $34.16 billion in General Fund revenue collections anticipated for FY 2024-25.
It was important knowledge to distinguish what lies in a future councilman’s scope and the services they provide.
Another reminder was given from PWC with the North Carolina Community College System’s “Turn Over a New YOU” program, which focuses on empowering individuals to pursue high-demand workforce training programs within 10 workforce pathways leading to state or industry-recognized credentials at Fayetteville Technical Community College.
This program is in response to the 302,000+ new jobs projected to expand the North Carolina workforce by 2028 and the need for career professionals with next-level skills and training in critical industries.
The ten 10 Governor’s Emergency Education Relief funded industry sectors are automotive, aircraft maintenance, construction, criminal justice, emergency medical services, healthcare, industrial manufacturing, information technology, transportation and fire and rescue services.
The primary target audience is underemployed and unemployed adults, 25-44 years old, who need to quickly and affordably upskill with credentials that will help them secure a new job with stability, upward mobility and the ability to provide for their family. To find out more about what scholarships are available or more about the program, visit www.faytechcc.edu/turn-over-a-new-you.
Greater Fayetteville Chamber Candidates’ Forum
The Greater Fayetteville Chamber will also host a Candidates Forum on Tuesday, Oct. 14, which will be held at FTCC in Cumberland Hall starting at 5:30 p.m. This event offers a unique opportunity for the public to hear directly from those seeking to represent them and gain a deeper understanding of each candidate's vision and policies. It is open to the community and free of charge. The Candidates’ Forum is a valuable platform for community members to become informed voters and participate in the democratic process. Find out more at www.faybiz.com.
The City of Fayetteville and Cumberland County resume meetings after a brief summer hiatus in August, so stay tuned for further recaps and news.
About the Greater Fayetteville Chamber
Advocacy is a cornerstone of the Greater Fayetteville Chamber. Every week, the Chamber dedicates staff to attend City of Fayetteville and Cumberland County meetings as well as monitoring updates on the state and federal levels. We monitor legislation locally, statewide and federally to protect our community’s business interests. To learn more, visit www.faybiz.com or email jmclaughlin@faybiz.com.

(Kirk deViere speaks to candidates running for local offices at the Greater Fayetteville Chamber's Candidates Academy on Aug. 1. Photo courtesy of Jami McLaughlin)

“Tis the season,” and politics are exploding all over.
Of course, in this overheated and viciously partisan atmosphere, we no longer seem to have an “off” political season. Fifteen months out, we are already well underway to an election that is 15 months away for most state and federal candidates.
Municipal elections are a bit different. In North Carolina, most of them, including Fayetteville’s, are held in odd-numbered years every 4 years with staggered terms for council members. In 2025, Fayetteville is staring down a humdinger of a municipal election.
Incumbent Mayor Mitch Colvin kept residents on pins and needles for months as they wondered, will he or won’t he seek re-election? In June, he finally said “no,” leaving a crowded field of 3 sitting council members who aspire to the top job, including Mayor Pro Tem Kathy Jensen, Mario Benavente, and Courtney Banks-McLaughlin, along with 6 other mayoral aspirants.
Then, out of the blue on the last morning of filing, incumbent Mayor Colvin surprised many by filing for re-election, citing concern for continuity on the city board. That is always a legitimate concern when an elected body is looking at a leadership change, but it certainly reshapes Fayetteville’s race for the top municipal post. It may also leave the sitting council members who joined the mayoral race thinking Colvin was out with considerable buyer’s remorse.
Throw in the 27 candidates, including 6 other incumbents, seeking 1 of 9 council seats, and it is going to be a wild ride.
Fayetteville voters need to buckle up between now and November 4th.
Politics at the state level may be even more tumultuous with more than a year to go.
All eyes will be on North Carolina’s US Senate race, which is shaping up to be one of the most riveting and expensive in US history. Immediate past governor, Roy Cooper, a Democrat, has joined the fray amid much Democratic delight. A popular governor with a long track record of service from the NC General Assembly to the Attorney General’s office to the Governor’s Mansion, Cooper is well known and well liked enough to have never lost an election. He may or may not draw a primary challenger.
On the Republican side, longtime Republican political operative Michael Whatley has announced his candidacy, and he, too, could draw primary opposition. He has apparently been spared a formidable challenger in Lara Trump, daughter-in-law to President Trump and a Wilmington native who passed on the Senate race to continue her career in pop music with a religious tinge. Whatley has never held elective office.
Blessedly, 2026 will not bring a Presidential race. Those happen every 4 years, and Americans are still in recovery from 2024. That does not mean, however, that national politics will not be ever-present and consuming. As best I can tell, Americans will plod toward the 2026 elections as divided as we have ever been, at least since the Civil War some 160 years ago.
Republicans remain trapped in lockstep with MAGA cultists, whether they share those views or not. Democrats are wandering in the political wilderness and warring among themselves about the road ahead, whether to emphasize progressive issues or to choose a middle of the road path more akin to traditional Republican values.
History teaches us that the pendulum always swings in the opposite direction. The question now is how long that will take and how much damage is done to our nation in the meantime.

Fayetteville and Cumberland County can learn a lot about common-sense leadership by observing recent events in our state.
On Tuesday, July 29, the North Carolina Senate demonstrated their commitment to the people by overriding twelve of Governor Stein's vetoes. This action successfully halted a series of policies that many believed would have pushed our state toward radical progressive governance.
These veto overrides signal a renewed focus on common-sense principles and respect for individual liberties. One significant achievement is the passage of the "Freedom to Carry NC" Act, which will make North Carolina the 30th Constitutional Carry state.
This measure respects the rights of law-abiding citizens to self-defense during an era of rising crime and violence. Another significant override eliminated "DEI" (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives in public and higher education. This ensures our schools can focus on traditional S.T.E.M. subjects, reading and comprehension, and academic excellence rather than on divisive social and political issues.
The Senate also took a firm stance on public safety, sending a clear message that the security of North Carolina residents is of paramount importance.
These actions are an encouraging sign of the positive direction our current state leadership is taking by both Republicans and Democrats. This is the confident and responsible leadership that we should demand of our local Fayetteville and Cumberland County elected officials.
Honest, intelligent, and common-sense leadership works, and doing the right things for the right reasons has always benefited all constituents. We saw this firsthand when the new Cumberland County Board of Commissioners was elected.
As municipal election time draws near, it is vitally important that residents vote for individuals who put the overall welfare of the community as their highest priority. Voting is the only opportunity we have to influence the future direction of our community.
What our state leadership is accomplishing in Raleigh must be duplicated locally to ensure prosperity, common-sense leadership, and good governance.
I encourage U&CW readers to vet all local candidates thoroughly. Candidates will be emailed a questionnaire from our editor, and their answers will be published in an election guide put together by the U&CW team.
I encourage both readers and candidates not to rely solely on Facebook and other social media outlets for accurate information or to get their message out.
When it comes to politics, seeing is believing. Look around Fayetteville, and you be the judge. Ask yourself: What positive changes have you really seen in the last decade? And do you want more of the same? Then, compare Fayetteville and Cumberland County to the growth and prosperity of surrounding counties. In the end, it all comes down to integrity, honest leadership, and vision.
So, trust your instincts and vet all the candidates thoroughly to do your part in creating a better community for future generations.
Thank you for reading Up & Coming Weekly.

(Candidates running for local offices in Fayetteville attended the Greater Fayetteville Chamber's Candidates Academy on Aug. 1. The Chamber put on the event to help inform those who are running for office. This year, seats on the Fayetteville City Council and Mayoral positions across the region will be voted on in November. For more information about the Candidates Academy, see page 8. Photo courtesy of Jami McLaughlin)

What would be on your to-do list on a trip to Great Smoky Mountains National Park? During the summer in and around the park, you might take in a dramatic sunset, hike to a waterfall, cool off in a river in a kayak, or catch a trout in a pristine stream.
Taking deep dives into lessons about eminent domain might not make your top five things to do, but it is what captivated my fisherman grandson as he explored not only spectacular trout holes, but also old cemeteries and foundations of homes along creeks in the Smokies near Bryson City.
Some trails he explored in Swain County hide the overgrown remnants of the large estate of wealthy landowner Phillip Rust and his wife Eleanor Dupont, an heiress to the Dupont fortune. In the 1930s, they built a summer estate along Noland Creek, including cottages for friends and a fine home for the caretakers of the land, the Hyatt family.
The homes of the Rust and Hyatt families, along with many other farms and homes, were condemned by the United States government during World War II. The Tennessee Valley Authority constructed Fontana Dam to provide hydroelectric power for the war effort, resulting in the creation of Fontana Lake. When the lake was created, homes, churches, schools, and communities were destroyed. All in all, 1,300 people were displaced.
This example of eminent domain reminded me of Cataloochee, by Wayne Caldwell. This novel, published in 2007, takes place prior to the construction of Fontana Dam further north in the Park in the areas around Big and Little Cataloochee Creeks in Haywood County. Cataloochee vividly describes the impacts of eminent domain on communities, following the lives of several mountain families during the time of the Civil War until they were pushed out of their homes in the late 1920’s when their lands were acquired for the new national park.
The story follows Ezra Banks who, after serving in the Confederate army, becomes an ambitious and successful farmer, marries into a family with landholdings in Cataloochee, and starts his own family.
Charles Frazier, author of Cold Mountain and Thirteen Moons, both also set in the North Carolina mountains, commented that the “rich cast of characters [in Cataloochee] spans generations, and collectively their stories form a brilliant portrait of a community and a way of life long gone, a lost America.”
Cataloochee helps us conjure what happened to many families throughout the creation of the park and what it must have been like for similarly impacted families during the construction of Fontana Dam.
Nobody would argue that Great Smoky Mountains National Park is not one of North Carolina’s (and Tennessee’s) greatest treasures. While perhaps more debatable, the construction of Fontana Dam was deemed necessary during the war. Through the use of eminent domain, thousands of acres of wilderness were preserved and protected.
And the dam was built and the lake formed, supporting our wartime efforts.
These “good” results are not the entire story. In Cataloochee, Wayne Caldwell reminds us of the pain and loss that were felt by families who lived in these areas for generations when they were forced to move to make room for the government’s priorities.
Unfortunately, progress for the majority is often accompanied by the sacrifice of others. When we remember the blessings of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the necessity of the construction of Fontana Dam, and similar projects, we should also say a word of thanks for the sacrifices that made them possible.

Fayetteville Technical Community College has over 30,000 students, but continues to grow with new degree and short-term workforce programs that align high-demand occupations in Cumberland County and the Sandhills Region. If you are looking to upskill, advance in an exciting company, or just start out fresh following completion of high school, come check out the career pathways available at FTCC!
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Fall classes begin on August 18, 2025. Reach out today (admissions@faytechcc.edu) and learn more about our registration schedule at www.faytechcc.edu – search “registration.”