It’s time, once again, for the Cape Fear Regional Theatre's beloved production of “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.” The annual show, now in its 31st year, will open on Saturday, Dec. 3, and run every Tuesday through Sunday until Dec. 18.

The classic Christmas story based on the 1971 novel of the same name by Barbara Robinson tells the story of a couple desperate to put together the church Christmas pageant despite the involvement of the notorious Herdman kids. Through mischief, mayhem, and absolute chaos, the Herdmans teach the whole town about the season’s true meaning — with plenty of laughs along the way.
Adapted as a play by Robinson in 1982, the show has been a popular production for schools and community theatres ever since. This year’s production will be directed by the CFRT’s Education Associate, Jennifer Sell.

Up & Coming Weekly spoke with CFRT’s Education Director, Marc de la Concha, about what makes this show so special for audiences.

“It’s a big tradition here in Fayetteville; people love the story,” he shared. “The kids love to do it every year. They love playing the parts. It’s classic. Many kids come to see this play as a field trip for school and then want to be a part of it later on.”

Having only skipped one year due to COVID-19 restrictions, “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” is a holiday tradition that waits to greet children, their parents and other community members every year. Parents who may have once graced the stage as children can now cheer on their own children as the enduring story of the Herdmans comes around to delight families.

In a casting shift different from what it was prior to COVID, children and older teens now make up the bulk of the cast, even filling roles traditionally written for adults. De la Concha sees it as a great move that gets more children interested in the arts, an endeavor extremely close to the theater’s heart.

“We have a good mix of kids from the area,” de la Concha stated. “We’re excited to see more schools join us, and we love seeing kids in the building around the holidays. We’re excited to have students come and see people their age on stage. We let them know they can come audition next year.”

To that end, de la Concha encourages children of all ages to audition when the time comes. “We have roles for as young as six all the way up to college — all are welcome.”

The theatre offers shows throughout the week, making “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” a holiday must-do for the whole family. The play is a wonderful field trip opportunity for the city's large home school population and would also make a fun outing for a playdate as the weather gets chillier.

“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” is an hour of Christmas magic suitable for all ages. It’s the perfect opportunity for families and the Fayetteville community to come together and celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.

CFRT is located at 1209 Hay Street. For tickets or more information, contact the box office at 910-323-4233 or visit www.cfrt.org/. Performances are Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Tickets range from $13.50 to $18.50.

What motivates you to give to charity? There are many reasons to donate, including religious or altruistic reasons. According to the Network for Good, studies have shown that the reasons donors give can vary based on age.

Young donors give because they want to belong and join their friends in supporting causes that create change. Other donors give to pay it forward, repay generosity shown to them, or because they enjoy the act of giving. Some donors give to support and attend special events.

When I was in grade school, I do not remember participating in school or community fundraisers. When my children were in school, there were constant fundraisers starting in preschool. Their generation grew up raising money for charitable causes for their school, church, scouts, and local nonprofit organizations. We sold more cookies and popcorn than you can imagine. Fundraising became part of their DNA. My husband and I tried to set a good example by teaching our children to give generously of their time, talent and treasure.

According to Giving USA, total U.S. charitable giving reached $484.85 billion in 2021, which was a 4% increase over 2020. Giving by individuals represents 70% of total giving.
GivingTuesday is a worldwide celebration of generosity. GivingTuesday is always the Tuesday after Thanksgiving which will be Nov. 29 this year. GivingTuesday was created in 2012 as a simple idea: a day that encourages people to do good. Since then, it has grown into a year-round global movement that inspires hundreds of millions of people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity.

There are ten ways you can support GivingTuesday and make a difference in the world:

• 1. Consider donating to the charity of your choice whose mission is important to you. Make this donation a convenient monthly recurring gift that provides continued support.
• 2. Donate to a charity in the names of your loved ones in lieu of exchanging gifts. Your family and friends will be touched by the gesture. Who needs more stuff anyway?
• 3. Pay it forward by starting a scholarship, book fund, or emergency assistance fund at a local college.
• 4. Discuss with your financial or tax professional other ways to give including donating property, stock, or other securities. Consider leaving a bequest to a charity in your estate plans.
• 5. Donors age 70 ½ or over can donate up to $100,000 of their required minimum distribution from an IRA tax free.
• 6. Donate annually to your alma mater. Alumni support is vitally important to colleges.
• 7. Ask your employer if they match charitable contributions to maximize your gift.
• 8. Donate food and personal care items to a food pantry.
• 9. Provide a loving home to an animal from the local animal shelter.
• 10. Offer your time and talent to a local nonprofit.

Every act of generosity counts, and we all have something to contribute. What will you contribute on GivingTuesday to celebrate generosity and inspire others?

Editor's note: Sandy Ammons is the Executive Director of FTCC Foundation and can be reached at ammonss@faytechcc.edu or 910.678.8441.

Everyone is at home and you are looking for something fun for the whole family to do. Check out “Holidays on Hay: A Season of Light” celebration in downtown Fayetteville on Friday, Nov. 25, starting at 3 p.m.

The Arts Council of Fayetteville|Cumberland County has been planning to make the holiday season a little brighter, a little sweeter, and a lot more caring.
From the incredible drone light show to the annual lighting of the holiday tree, and all the art, performances, food and craft-making in between, Holidays on Hay has something for everyone in your crowd.

Yes, drone light show. The Arts Council is gifting the all-new “Season of Light Drone Show” powered by Fayetteville State University. This free showcase will bring the holiday alive with innovative aerial displays of three-dimensional seasonal shapes and characters that can be seen up to four miles away.
Imaginations will soar as 200 state-of-the-art drones present stunning holiday imagery across the night sky. This one-of-a-kind experience is a safe, environment-friendly, and sensory-friendly showcase for pets and all audiences.

It is expected to be a showstopper that your family will be talking about for many Thanksgivings to come.

Whether you’ve called Fayetteville home from the beginning or are here for a brief stint, remember family and friends from all over time and space at the tree lighting.
Bridging past and present, those who have gone before and those yet to come, the “Illumination Ceremony: Community Tree & Candle Lighting” ushers in the holiday season as the community gathers in the spirit of unity with our loved ones and in reflection of those lost this year.

The Cool Spring Downtown District’s 22-foot Holiday Tree located in front of the Arts Center is a reminder of all the points of light we call family.
Is it an annual tradition for your kids to make a gingerbread house? Then you should enter it into the annual “Gingerbread Village” contest produced by the Chameleon Children's Theatre for a scrumptious way to make holiday magic with the Arts Council and Callahan & Rice Insurance.

Whether a novice or a more advanced decorator, the village displayed at Capitol Encore Academy will be filled with the most delightful, imaginative and even traditional gingerbread house creations for a chance to win great prizes. Could you recreate your own home in gingerbread? Or maybe Cool Spring Place, listed on the historic register? Or how about the Arts Council building? There are many ideas to try, but interested applicants must register at www.WeAreTheArts.com/holiday to participate.

Many families have in their holiday practices an act of service in the community. The Arts Council is brightening the spirits of pediatric patients and nursing staff at Cape Fear Valley Health that cannot be home with their families for the holidays.

As you revel in the merriment of the day, stop in front of the Fascinate-U Children’s Museum to create an original “Get Well Wish Card” with a personalized message for the “Art of Caring” community project. “Being able to share holiday cards created by members of our community with patients will also allow them to have a sense of social support during their illness.

“We are grateful to the Arts Council for always thinking of ways to have a positive impact through the arts on those in our community who are facing illnesses,” said Sabrina Brooks, vice president of Cape Fear Valley Health Foundation.

You don’t have to go anywhere else to grab the perfect gifts for everyone on your list. The “Holiday ARTS Market” will ignite the streets of Downtown Fayetteville with glorious displays of unique, handcrafted holiday trinkets, treats and treasures created by local artisans.

Attendees will also experience the joyful sounds of music ensembles, festive dance exhibitions, and amazing theatrical performances by local entertainers and performance groups. You’ll feel a warm glow supporting local artists and crafters this season. Many of these groups are also nonprofit organizations, so if you’re looking for places for your end-of-year giving, this will also be a great day to find organizations to help support.

Children and the young-at-heart will enjoy the special “Kids Holiday Craft Corner” that will be filled with activities like decorative holiday make and takes, Santa's Workshop, a Christmas Bounce House, and lots of exciting train rides around the Market House on The Polar Express. Those little big hearts will enjoy making magical memories with their parents and caregivers.

Visit www.WeAreTheArts.com/holiday for more information about featured performances, the gingerbread contest registration and more. Brighten your holiday (and holi-night!) with your friends and family on Friday, Nov. 25 at the Arts Council’s “Holidays on Hay: A Season of Light” celebration.

The event is presented by Fayetteville State University, Cape Fear Valley Health, Callahan & Rice Insurance, with project support from Capitol Encore Academy, Chameleon Children's Theatre, Fascinate-U Children’s Museum and Cool Spring Downtown District. Drone production provided by Pixis Drones.

Small Business Saturday is a national initiative started in 2010 by American Express. It is observed on the Saturday after Thanksgiving and is designed to highlight small businesses.
This shopping guide is not exhaustive, so, be sure to venture out and check in with all of your local favorites to see if they are offering specials. All offers listed are subject to change without notice and are subject to supply availability. For any additional details please reach out to the individual businesses.

A Bit of Carolina
This specialty gift shop carries everything North Carolina such as tees, food, souvenirs, gift baskets and more! This Best of Fayetteville winner a selection of Fayetteville-specific items. Simply Southern Large Totes will be on sale for $40, down from the original price of $79.95. Simply Southern Accessories will be buy one, get one free, while supplies last. Lastly, they will be offering 15% off on custom gift baskets and gift boxes. A Bit of Carolina is located in downtown Fayetteville at 306 Hay Street.

Apple Crate Natural Market
Apple Crate Natural Market will offer free frankincense and mir incense with every $50 purchase. They will also offer double points on all body care, essential oilers and gift items. This deal is for Black Friday and Small Business Saturday. This store focuses on nutrition supplements, vitamins and specialty and organic foods. They have two locations, 2711 Raeford Road, open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. – 8 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. The other location, located off 5430 Camden Road Suite #103 is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Baker Motorsports
Baker Motorsports is a family owned and operated powersports store with the same passion as their customers. If they are not working they are out riding ourselves. This year, they have sales going on for Friday and Saturday. Zero freight or set up fees on all units, 10% off all parts, 15% off all audio parts, and everyone has a chance to win a $500 gift card by going to mybakerms.com. This motorbike shop is located at 3700 Sycamore Dairy Road.

Blissful Alchemist
Blissful Alchemist is a brand new, woman-owned boutique, salon and yoga shop. Their modern, whimsical boutique features clothes, books, crystals, jewelry and more. They also offer Spray Tans, Hair & Makeup, Blowouts, Lashes, Waxing, Teeth Whitening, Nails, Pedicures, Facials, Botox, Injections, Brows, Reiki, Life Coaching, Acupuncture, Massage, Meditation, Past Life Regression, Red Light Therapy, Herbs, Oils, and more. In their store, they will be offering a buy one, get one 50% off for clothing. The rest of the boutique will be 15% off. They are located at 414 Ray Avenue.

Bragg Unique Boutique
The Bragg Unique Boutique Gift Shop will be offering 25% off all wholesale items, as well as sales on select consignor items such as 18% off Engraved Bullet Pens. They are also offering a chance to win a $10 gift card for every $30 you spend. The BUB is part of the Association of Bragg Spouses and is supported by ABS Volunteers.​ They sell gifts, handmade items and specialty items. All profits go directly to the ABS Scholarship and Welfare Funds. They are open Tuesdays and Thursdays. Their website, bragg-unique-boutique.square.site is also available 24/7. They are located on Fort Bragg at Bldg 2-2211 Woodruff Street.

CPR Cell Phone Repair
This cell phone repair shop handles all electronic device repairs for clients throughout Cumberland County. This busy shop off Raeford Road currently holds a five-star rating on Google and specializes in a wide variety of digital device repairs, including smartphones, tablets, computers, laptops, game consoles, camera MP3 players and more. For Black Friday, they will be offering $15 off any tempered glass protector and $20 off any cell phone cases – including Otterboxes. This Best of Fayetteville winner is located at 926 Brighton Road.

Curate Essentials
Curate Essentials is an herbal apothecary and boutique selling vintage and handmade goods located in the heart of Fayetteville’s historic Haymount Hill. They believe in taking a holistic approach to health and wellness. They create all-natural products to help you live in balance with your mind, body, and spirit. They will be selling a special holiday box for $60. This box will include seasonal items like a candy cane crush sugar scrub, cranberry goat milk soap, honey oatmeal moisturizers, a holiday soy wax candle, and a handmade ornament. The shop will also be selling festive and seasonal lattes and pastries. Curate Essentials is located at 1302 Fort Bragg Road and will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Dragon's Lair Comics
This local comic book store will be offering buy two, get one free select comic books. There will also be $1 back issues available and the Spider-Man wall will be 25% off. For everyone who drops into the store on Saturday, they will get a free new comic. Dragon’s Lair Comics has been a part of the Fayetteville community for over 40 years. This store is open Monday through Sunday, typically from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. and is located at 6243 Yadkin Road.

Fit4Life Health Clubs
This sports performance and wellnes center offer professional and trained staff to help you along your fitness journey, no matter how much support you need. At Fit4Life, you aren’t joining a gym; you are gaining a community. This Best of Fayetteville winner is offering a sale that won’t get any sweeter. Their monthly package will be on sale for $10 a month or pay just $349 for the entire year. This membership includes 24/7/365 access, a free kids zone, free group classes, and one free session with a personal trainer. They are located in multiple places in Fayetteville. To learn more about this deal, call (910) 568-5982.

Lily Kat's Consignment Boutique
This local boutique will be offering a two-day small business sale. They will be offering 25% off storewide. There will also be a sidewalk sale on Saturday. If you are shopping at the store, make sure to spin the wheel for extra discounts when you have a total purchase of $50 or more. LilyKat’s Consignment Boutique has been a destination for thrifty fashionistas sense August 2011. They won Up & Coming Weekly’s Best Thrift Shop for 2022. They are located at 817 Elm Street.

MUAH Lash & Beauty Bar
MUAH Lash & Beauty Bar specializes in makeup, waxing, skin care, body enhancement, and serves as a spa, hair salon, tanning salon, and lash and brow bar. This military spouse-owned business opened in 2020. They are offering several deals this week, including 20% off any full set of lash extensions or lash lift, free brow wax with any full set of lashes or lash lift, customized facial with free light therapy, 50% off body contouring/sculpting and 50% off non-invasive booty lift/ cellulite break down. These deals are available online at their website https://www.vagaro.com/muahlashandbeautybar. They are located at 1530 N Bragg Blvd, Spring Lake and opened Monday through Saturday.

Popcorn-Is-Us, LLC
Popcorn-Is-Us pops fresh quality popcorn daily. They pair fresh popcorn with high-quality local ingredients such as creamy farm fresh butter, rich milky caramels, fine chocolates, fresh roasted locally grown nuts, flavorful candy coatings, spicy peppers and savory cheeses. All to create delicious, specially handcrafted, savory or sweet gourmet flavors that everyone can enjoy. They will be selling regular large buckets of popcorn for $12.99 instead of $18.99, and premium large buckets of popcorn will be on sale for $15.99. This popcorn shop is located at 3300 Rosehill Rd., Suite #103.

Pressed - A Creative Space
For the whole weekend, Pressed will be having sales in their shop and online. Starting on Friday, all of their shirts, crystals and crystal bracelets will be 30 percent off. On Saturday, a free sticker will be given out with any $75 purchase, as well as 30 percent off for shirts, crystals, and crystal bracelets. On Monday, their website will be 30 percent off as well. This store sells clothing, crystals, and other items of interest for those who see things differently. They are a veteran-owned business in Downtown Fayetteville. They are open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and are located at 120 Hay Street.

Rocket Fizz
Rocket Fizz has the largest selection of candy and soda ever found in one store. Hundreds of sodas from microbreweries worldwide and almost every candy ever made. You will discover amazing flavors here. The local franchise is owned by Ann Sims, Ineke Morris-Verschuur and James Morris. At their store, you’ll see such enticing items as toys, novelties, candies, movie posters, vintage rock concert posters and more than 400 varieties of soda pop. For Small Business Saturday, if you buy two tin signs, you can get the third one for free. This candy and soda shop is located at 1916 Skibo Road #A8.

Sweet Tea Shakespeare
This theatre company will offer 20 percent off tickets for their “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea.” Join the most innovative theatre group in Fayetteville for a unique immersive retelling of the classic Jules Verne tale. Savor Fayetteville Pie Company’s unique curated menu while diving into the thrilling tale of deep-sea adventure. This non-profit company focuses on fathering a diverse community around a common table to delight in the magic of story, song and stagecraft. Their website is sweetteashakespeare.com.

The Renaissance Day Spa
Holistic wellness goes beyond physical health, involving the mind and body. The Renaissance Day Spa staff make it their mission to ensure customers feel like royalty. This Best Of Fayetteville winner is offering a buy one, get one half-off deal with all of their services. This special will be available through the end of the month. Services include deep tissue and Swedish massages, facials, manicures, pedicures, waxing, infrared saunas, cryotherapy, dry float and compression therapy. They are located at 1534 Purdue Drive.

Triangle Rock Club
The Triangle Rock Club is a premiere indoor rock climbing center and gym. Their state-of-the-art facility offers lead and top rope climbing, bouldering and a comprehensive fitness center. They are selling discounted punch passes. Their punch passes are bulk day passes that never expire. Afterward, if you would like a membership, it will waive the initiation fee. Punch Passes for adults will be $119 instead of $155. Child Punch Passes will be on sale for $79 instead of $110. This veteran-owned gym is located at 5213 Raeford Road.

Yalacky Outfitters NC
They bring outdoor lakeside activities to the Hope Mills community. Kayak rentals, fishing bait, outdoor apparel and equipment, life-size yard game rental. They are selling unlimited weekend passes for $100. This pass can be redeemed once a day, any Saturday and Sunday. This offer includes single kayak for two hours. This pass can be used from Jan. 1, 2023 through Dec. 31, 2023. To buy a pass, call 910-221-6077 or email kayakhopemillsnc@gmail.com.

Just months ago, the housing market was blazing hot. Now median prices are dropping, even in states like North Carolina that continue to attract new residents. The Federal Reserve isn’t done pushing up interest rates to combat inflation. Consumers are responding to higher prices by cutting back on expenses.

Are we on the cusp of a major recession? Most economists surveyed last month by The Wall Street Journal said yes. I hope they’re wrong. But I’m also glad to live in North Carolina, where legislative leaders have made it a priority to hedge against worst-case scenarios.

As of September, the state had an unreserved General Fund balance of $5 billion. The dedicated savings reserve, our “rainy-day fund,” contained $3.6 billion. Another $309 million sat in two Medicaid reserves. Not counting other state savings accounts, these three categories alone represent nearly $9 billion in readily accessible funds — or roughly a third of North Carolina’s General Fund budget for the 2022-23 fiscal year.

Never before in state history have we been so well-prepared for fiscal turbulence. Most recessions produce budget deficits due to a combination of factors: lower-than-expected collections of revenue from struggling households and businesses and higher-than-expected demand for public-assistance programs such as Medicaid.

Because North Carolina is legally required to balance its operating budget, past administrations and legislative majorities have responded to recessionary deficits by raising taxes, slashing expenditures, tapping (borrowed) federal funds, and foisting more fiscal obligations onto local governments (which must then raise taxes, cut spending, or both).

I’m no Keynesian. I don’t believe government at any level should attempt to fine-tune the economy by artificially stimulating demand during recessions or artificially tamping down demand during booms. Such policies usually fail to accomplish their objectives. Political actors inevitably lack the information to make the “right” decisions about all this, and it takes too long for the effects of the policies to manifest themselves.

In fact, precisely because they are political actors, they rarely stick to the theoretical script, anyway. They favor some sectors over others. And they shy away from tough decisions that might advance the public good but would anger some vocal political constituency.

That being said, state leaders rarely make good decisions in a crisis. I’m all for pursuing economy in government, but in the past, governors and legislators have resorted to across-the-board cuts or gimmickry to close budget gaps rather than making prudent, long-term decisions about what to fund, what not to fund, and why.

As for the revenue side of the equation, raising taxes during a recession makes neither economic nor political sense. And grabbing more federal money to paper over budget holes is no solution, either. The national debt has grown so large that it fuels inflation and inhibits growth. Projected federal expenditures already exceed projected federal revenues by trillions of dollars, primarily because of unfunded liabilities for Social Security, Medicare, and other entitlements.

The best way to avoid these calamitous decisions is to build up savings reserves. When recessions come, lawmakers should still set firm budgetary priorities and be willing to eliminate programs or positions that don’t comport with them. But with $9 billion in savings, North Carolina’s leaders can do so without slashing core services — and without raising taxes.

Might the General Assembly’s past decade of precautionary saving prove unnecessary? Yes. The old maxim still applies, though: hope for the best, prepare for the worst.

When was the last time you gave thanks for something you lost?

Forty years ago, Southern rockers 38 Special penned and recorded a song which claimed the charts as it encouraged us to “Hold On Loosely” lest we lose control. While I wouldn’t suggest the entirety of the song is good relationship advice I’ll admit that learning to loosen our grip may not be that bad an idea.

We often have a tendency toward placing too much trust or value in the things around us. That could be money, the job or promotion we’re clamoring for, or a relationship.
These are all things that we desire; things which become objects of our affection.

The danger to our wellbeing is when these things — or a multitude of others— become objects of our obsession. More profitable than the advice from that 80’s radio hit is something we can read in the New Testament book of James.

In the first chapter, we’re invited to see that “…every good and perfect gift comes from above.” (v.17) The writer, believed to be the half-brother of Jesus, opens the book (or letter) asking us to “count it all joy whenever we face various trials.” (v.2) The people knew what James was talking about.

People in the early Christian church underwent both persecution and ostracizing when they proclaimed their belief Jesus was the long-awaited Messiah, the son of God.

Things they had worked for — their homes and businesses — were stripped away as they found themselves on the outside of the Jewish culture looking in.

Lifelong friends turned their backs on them, many were forced to ply a new trade as longtime customers refused to have anything to do with them (let alone do business with them), and they found themselves exiled — by choice or by force.

The Messiah was the very thing they prayed for, yet when He arrived, to follow Him was to let go of everything they knew and valued.

Sometimes we must let go of things, too. They are often the very things that keep us from something better. Jesus tried to explain this as a wealthy young business leader approached Him asking what he must do to inherit eternal life. He had observed all that was moral, built a profitable business, and seemingly had it all. Jesus told him to “…sell it all, give to the poor, then come follow Him.” (Matthew 19:16-21) Unwilling to let go of the good for the great, the young man went away sad.

And so it is with us. Be careful not to hold too tightly to the things that are more like anchors than oars.

We may find ourselves sinking, ever so slowly, never loosening our grip on the things we once longed for, but which may now be the only thing standing between us and the greatest gift we could ever imagine.

Let go, and thank God for the gifts He gave you, and the even better gifts He’s offering you now.

The importance of small businesses to the economy cannot be overstated.

Though national chains often garner publicity, local businesses are equally, if not exceedingly, worthy of attention. What defines a small business as “small” varies significantly, but these businesses are generally privately owned and generate far less revenue than big corporations.

General consensus also defines small businesses as companies with fewer than 500 paid employees, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration.
Here’s a look at why small businesses are so vital, and why consumers should consider directing some of their purchasing power to smaller companies rather than the big box retailers and other national chains.

Autonomy and diversity

The layout and offerings at national chains will be identical whether you live in the mountains or at the beach. Big box stores follow a consistent marketing strategy and look the same regardless of where they are located. That familiarity can come at the cost of variety. On the other hand, an independent business offers the products and services that are reflective of the customers and the community that they serve.

Local hiring strategy

Certain big box retailers will hire local residents, but hiring policies may push for promoting from within the organization. This could mean relocating an employee rather than bringing in someone from the community who may be more in tune with local sensibilities. Small businesses may be more inclined to hire residents they know and keep hiring centralized to the local area - something that keeps more resources and money in the community.

Adaptability and change

Local businesses can move more quickly to respond to economic factors that require change. Since they are focused more on the needs of their customers rather than stockholders, changes can be implemented rapidly without having to go through red tape, meetings and updates to corporate policies. Changes also can be customized to the local community at large.

Investing in the town

According to the financial resource Financial Slot, shopping at locally owned businesses rather than big box retailers keeps more money in the community. Local property taxes and other taxes paid by the businesses go right back into the community. This helps raise overall value for homeowners and can even reduce their taxes. The funding helps keep police, fire and school departments functioning properly.

Turnover is greater

While no one wants to see a small business fail, that fate is sometimes unavoidable. However, that turnover helps teach communities what was done poorly and helps others learn from those mistakes. It also means fresh businesses will come in and replace the old, driving new growth, opportunity and competition that keeps prices competitive.
The benefits of a thriving small business sector are numerous. Consumers can do their part by patronizing these firms more frequently.

The chapters of this remarkable story include a world-class Ukrainian enamellist, a war raging in Ukraine because of Russia's invasion, and a local family in Fayetteville, North Carolina, who just wanted to make a difference in the life of a Ukrainian artist.

Retired couple David and Rebecca Wendelken, both practicing artists, have a home with pottery, wood, and an enameling studio; so, the idea of sharing their home and a studio with a Ukrainian artist seemed “like the right thing to do.”

The Wendelkens knew a jeweler in Ukraine and invited her to come to North Carolina at the beginning of the invasion. The artist declined, noting she and her friends were making Molotov cocktails instead of jewelry. The Wendelken family posted an invite to other Ukrainian artists who would benefit from the usage of one of their studios. The response was from many Ukrainian artists and included Oleksii Koval, an internationally known enamel artist.

Koval was visiting family in Slovenia when the invasion began. The bombs and fighting were only several miles from his home and studio in Kyiv. On April 12, Koval arrived in Fayetteville. He now resides at the Wendelken’s home, and began working in the enameling studio as early as April 15.
Fast forward six months to Nov. 25, during the 4th Friday celebration in downtown Fayetteville, the public will be able to see Koval’s most recent works made in the Wendelkens’ studio in an exhibit titled Buds and Cathedrals at Ellington White Contemporary Gallery on Gillespie Street.

Buds and Cathedrals is a body of work inspired by the Ukrainian artist’s recent move to North Carolina. Visitors to the opening will meet a world-class enamel artist who is always happy to talk about what inspires him and meet people from around the world.

From Nepal to Chicago, Koval has traveled the globe and is inspired by the beauty of world cultures. Koval shared what has inspired him while living in Fayetteville: “I am inspired by the light and colors in North Carolina … The blue of the sky and colors of the flowers are so bright. I love the pine and the magnolia trees; the variance of colors and the landscape is beautiful.”

Oleksii Koval has exhibited his large-scale enameled works of art in museums and galleries worldwide, and collectors worldwide have invested in owning his work for its grandeur and beauty.
Since enamel is usually thought of as a technique for small-scale work, the image titled “Destiny,” owned by a collector in Spain, is an example of the scale of his work.

Visitors to Buds and Cathedrals will see exquisitely crafted designs, close-ups of flowering trees the artist has observed while in Fayetteville, and a series of interpretations of cathedral windows. All finished works begin as an idea inspired by what Koval experienced in the present, but they are also the result of a lifetime of study, travel and education.

Depending on where Koval has traveled or thinking about an inspirational theme, the artist works in thematic series. He notes that when many works in a series are selling, he will end the series and begin a new body of work. When asked why, the artist smiled when he said: “I do not mass produce works of art, nor am I tempted to mass produce. I am happy that the work is being enjoyed and is selling, but then it’s time to begin a new body of work to keep the art fresh, and innovative — for me it is important to stay inspired and create new challenges for myself.”

Koval was trained in the traditions of fine art, including studies in drawing, painting and sculpture. In 1996 he graduated from the Republican School of Art, then continued his education and graduated in 2002 from the National Academy of Fine Arts and Architecture. After graduation, Koval created over 100 works in Ukraine and abroad in mediums of frescoes, mosaics, ornaments, and drafts for stained-glass windows. It was not until 2006 when he attended a hot enamel workshop with Ivan Kyrychenko that Koval discovered the medium that enabled him to bring his ideas to fruition — a way to express his experiences about beauty and the nuances of life.

The process of enamels, light passing through layers of glass combined with the boundaries of metal and larger shapes, became Koval’s way to express himself about the world around him. The floral works in Buds and Cathedrals are like witnessing glaciers floating in a sea of light, the shapes of glass merge, bringing to life a harmonized pattern of all that is beautiful and a love for everything that is living.

After a trip to India, Koval was inspired by landscape fragments and expressive faces to create his experience of the country and its culture; as well he combined specific images from the ethnic ornaments of a particular province.

Koval commented, “In this body of work I chose the oval form since it represents the eye as the symbol for looking at the world.”

Many people are familiar with enamels as an ornamental inlay process often referred to as cloisonné. This process of applying a thin coat of finely ground glass to metal, then heating it at high temperature until the glass melts or fuses to the metal is as old as ancient civilizations. According to Karen L. Cohen for Ganoksin educational site for jewelry: “The earliest known enameled pieces have been dated to the 13th century BC when Mycenaean goldsmiths inlaid enamels into gold rings. Since then, cultures all over the world have incorporated enameling into their art forms. In the 5th century BC, Greek artisans used enamel to decorate artwork such as the Phidias statues of Zeus … gold cloisonné was popularized by the Byzantine Empire during the 9th through the 11th centuries AD … a revolution in enameling occurred in the late 15th century when a new method of ‘Painting’ with enamels was developed called "Limoges" — the first-time enamel colors touched each other without the use of separating wires or metal.”

Visitors to Buds and Cathedrals are fortunate to be able to see the enamel work of Koval and meet him due to the kindness and generosity of David and Rebecca Wendelken. His story includes an artist who had to leave his country where making an income is impossible, supplies, sustenance and resources are limited or nonexistent, a place where honored historical works of art and architecture are being systematically destroyed, and treasured works of art are stolen from museums and state collections.

The public reception for Buds and Cathedrals is 5 to 7 p.m. on Nov. 28 at Ellington White Contemporary Gallery, 113 Gillespie Street. For more information on the gallery, visit www.ellington-white.com/.

Readers can open a link to the artist talking and see him working in his studio at www.youtube.com/watch?v=zck4UsuYPzA or go to the artist’s website to see many bodies of work: www.oleksiikoval.com/video.

The exhibit will remain in the gallery until Jan. 8, 2023. Regular business hours are Thursday — Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Consider the scenario of being dispatched to investigate a possible home invasion. The call for help came in from a male child approximately 12 years of age who stated he was hiding in a closet at his home after intruders kicked in the back door and began walking around in the house. The child’s fear and anxiety were obvious in his voice when he placed the call for help. As the law enforcement officer called to this scene, consider the situation and how you would handle resolving the case.

If this scenario example describes the types of situations that motivate you in serving and helping others, a career in basic law enforcement could be the perfect career for you. FTCC can help you quickly receive training and be on your way to a new career.

Fayetteville Technical Community College’s Basic Law Enforcement Training program is designed to give students essential skills required for employment as a law enforcement officer with state, county and municipal governments or with private enterprise.

Successful graduates of the training receive a certificate and 20 credits towards an associate degree.
Graduates are also qualified to take the certification exams mandated by the North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission.

The ability to quickly assess situations and make appropriate decisions is not only essential for candidates of this program but also what makes a career in Basic Law Enforcement an exciting and unique experience.

FTCC conducts a free Basic Law Enforcement Training, or BLET, Informational Workshop once a month at the Spring Lake campus.
Sessions for BLET begin at 9 a.m. To sign up for an information session and request an application packet, go to https://forms.faytechcc.edu/blet-academy/, or visit the Facebook page at FTCC Basic Law

Enforcement Training and click on the “Sign Up” button located on the cover photo. Not sure if law enforcement is for you but still want more information about FTCC’s BLET Academy? Come to one of the information sessions and meet the BLET staff.

Staff will discuss what to expect before, during and after the Academy as well as answer any questions you may have. You will also have the opportunity to talk with a recruiter from a NC law enforcement agency about their agency and careers in law enforcement.

If you decide this is the career path for you, please note that FTCC offers three Academies each year: Spring full-time day academy, Fall full-time day academy, and Fall part-time night academy.

If you already know a career in law enforcement is for you and you are ready to complete the application, you may download the application from the FTCC website and get started: https://www.faytechcc.edu/academics/public-service-programs/basic-law-enforcement-training/

For more information about the BLET Academy, please contact vesty@faytechcc.edu or Sonji Holmes at holmess@faytechcc.edu.

FTCC understands that better skills lead to better jobs with better pay. Take your career to a new level or venture down a new career path. Find your way forward at Fayetteville Technical Community College!

Ankle sprains make up about 25% of injuries resulting in a visit to the emergency room. An injury occurs when the ankle is rolled or twisted in an awkward position. Your ligaments are the stabilizers for your joints that help with excessive movement and most sprained ankles involve movement on the outer side of the ankle.

Recently, I did not see a hole while walking and my ankle went into the hole. I felt it turn, and thankfully it did not result in an injury. I am a big advocate of ankle strength and flexibility and for that reason, my ankle was flexible enough not to sustain an injury when I stepped in the hole.

The importance of ankle flexibility and strength exercises is often overlooked and not addressed until an injury occurs.
The ankle is the first major joint that absorbs shock when our feet hit the ground. Lack of mobility and strength causes the body to absorb the shock in other parts of your body causing an imbalance up the kinetic chain. The result is compensation in other parts of your body which could cause you to have knee, hip or lower back pain.

The term ankle mobility refers to the flexibility of the foot in plantarflexion (pointing the foot) and dorsiflexion (pulling the foot upward). Another form of flexibility in the ankle is the performance of inversion and eversion which is the ankle rolling side to side, which is a common reason for ankle sprains.

Strong ankles are just as important as flexibility. It is the ankle strength that helps us sustain our balance and perform activities such as running, walking, jumping and squatting.
Weak ankles are not something that we may pay attention to but there are signs that your ankles may be weak or have a lack of mobility. Some of the signs include repeated turning, discomfort and swelling, chronic pain, tenderness, and feeling your ankles wobble on uneven surfaces, dancing or walking.

Ankle exercises are part of my classes at the end of a session. You can do simple exercises at home to strengthen your ankles and make them more flexible while sitting, standing or watching TV.
In a standing or seated position practice dorsiflexion and plantar flexion while moving the foot forward toward your shin and pointing. Rotate the ankle in forward and reverse circles. Tap the foot, right, middle and left. Practice rolling your foot over from one side to the other.

Stretch bands can also be used with ankle exercises. The bands serve as resistance when doing exercises such as plantarflexion, dorsiflexion, circles, taps and stretching.
Standing heel raises aid in strengthening your ankles and can be done standing at a counter. Raise the heels up and down or extend half of your foot over a step or riser while holding on to something for stability raising your heels up and down.

Single-leg exercises can also help with ankle strength and balance while holding onto a stable surface and progress by lifting and lowering
your heel.
Squat jumps or jumping rope also add to the strengthening process. Seated ankle strength exercises can be done by pressing the foot on a ball or placing a weight on the thigh while raising and lowering the foot.

It is important to know when to see a podiatrist. Left untreated, weak ankles can lead to activity restrictions. Your podiatrist can recommend exercises and a plan. Ankle sprains generally take an injury two to 12 weeks to heal with varying degrees of a sprain and may need some therapy.

Live, love life with mobility.

As Americans prepare to hit the road for Thanksgiving, average gasoline prices will be at their highest seasonal level ever for the weekend according to GasBuddy, the leading fuel savings platform saving North American drivers the most money on gas.

The national average is projected to stand at $3.68 on Thanksgiving Day — nearly 30¢ higher than last year, and over 20¢ higher than the previous record of $3.44 set in 2012.
But that won’t slow many down, with 20% more Americans planning to hit the road this year.

It has been a challenging year for drivers, breaking several records thanks to less global refining capacity, sanctions brought on by Russia’s war on Ukraine, and government energy policy. The number of Americans traveling over the weekend this year is up from 32% last year to 38%, a nearly 20% rise, with 62% of Americans not planning on road tripping for Thanksgiving. Twenty-one percent say they are choosing not to drive due to high fuel prices.

“It has been a dizzying year at the pump, with motorists likely feeling nauseous not from the eggnog, but from the roller coaster ride at the pump with record gasoline prices earlier this year, which have fallen significantly since mid-summer,” said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy.

“Americans, however, are proving that while we’ll openly complain about high gas prices, most of us aren’t deterred from taking to the highways to observe Thanksgiving with those that matter most to us, especially as precautions from the pandemic have eased.”

Travelers can expect Wednesday afternoon between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. to be the busiest on the nation’s highways, and on Friday between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. Twenty-three percent of respondents to GasBuddy’s Thanksgiving survey say they’ll spend one to three hours in the car, compared to 2021, when most indicated they’d travel less than an hour away. While 21% say high fuel prices are impacting their travel, surprisingly fewer are citing high gas prices this year (46% vs. 51% in 2021) for impacting their travel plans. Seventy-three percent of Americans traveling won’t be crossing state lines to do so.

GasBuddy offers several money-saving tips for motorists on the road this holiday season:

• Shop around for the best prices. The first gas station you see isn’t always the cheapest and driving a few extra blocks can save drivers upwards of 30 cents per gallon. GasBuddy also offers a Search Along Route feature to help drivers plan stops on their road trip.
• Pay with GasBuddy. A free payments service that offers up to 25 cents off per gallon on every fill-up at hundreds of thousands of gas stations nationwide.
• Slow down on the road. Aggressive driving habits like speeding, rapid acceleration and hard braking can cost drivers hundreds of extra dollars per year in additional fuel consumption.
• Watch out for state lines. Differences in taxes can cause big differences between states. If traveling through multiple states, check the GasBuddy app to fill up on the lower priced side.

Editor's note: To obtain information presented in this article, GasBuddy analyzed 1,314 responses to its 2022 Thanksgiving Travel Survey from Nov. 5 to 9.
GasBuddy is the leading fuel savings platform providing North American drivers with the most ways to save money on gas. For more information, visit www.gasbuddy.com.

Thanksgiving is a time to gather with family and friends and reflect on one’s blessings.

In anticipation, here are some interesting facts about the Thanksgiving celebration that some may not know.

1. American Thanksgiving is largely modeled on a 17th century harvest feast shared by the English settlers and the Wampanoag tribe.

2. Canadians celebrate Thanksgiving on the second Monday of October. It is based on European harvest festivals.

3. The National Turkey Federation says around 45 million turkeys will be eaten on Thanksgiving, which equates to about 720 million pounds of turkey being consumed (with the average turkey size being 16 pounds).

4. The Butterball hotline answers roughly 100,000 calls every year on its turkey question hotline.

5. In 1953, the Swanson company overestimated the number of frozen turkeys it would sell for the holiday season by 26 tons. Rather than waste the meat, Swanson sliced it up, repackaged it and created the first frozen TV dinners.

6. Thanksgiving in America may be older than many recognize. While Thanksgiving is largely tied to the 17th century settlers, the National Parks Service says in 1565 Spanish settlers in St. Augustine (now Florida) celebrated by having a meal to which they invited the native Seloy tribe. The Spanish served pork stew, sea biscuits, red wine and garbanzo beans. Some say the Seloy contributed turkey, venison and maize.

7. Thanksgiving didn’t become a civic holiday until Abraham Lincoln made it one after the Civil War. Thanksgiving was declared a national holiday on October 20, 1864.

8. The Pilgrims did not refer to themselves as pilgrims. They used the word separatists as they were separating themselves from a larger belief system.

9. In addition to Canada and the United States, Grenada, Liberia, the Philippines, Saint Lucia, and the Netherlands celebrate their own versions of Thanksgiving.

10. Each year, the American president pardons a turkey from slaughter on Thanksgiving. This tradition dates back to when Abraham Lincoln’s son was upset that his family's turkey was going to be killed for Thanksgiving dinner.

11. According to the U.S. Calorie Control Council, an average American may consume 4,500 calories and 229 grams of fat on Thanksgiving Day.

12. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is an annual tradition. People line the parade route in New York City or tune in to watch the parade on television. It originated in 1924 and the famed balloons were added in 1927.

13. Apple pie is the pie of choice for Thanksgiving, even though pumpkin pie is prevalent during this time of year.

Thanksgiving is a popular holiday and serves as an intro to a celebratory season that runs through New Year’s. Many traditions have been borne of the holiday, and it is a favorite time of year for many people and families. It has become a time to share in the spirit of gratitude.

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday.

One reason is that it is a time for lots of plentiful food on the table. And time to remember favorite people, now gone.

We lost author Randall Kenan last year. I liked his beautiful writing best when he wrote about food when families came together to celebrate or to mourn.
For instance, he edited “Carolina Table,” a beautiful set of essays about food in the south. In that volume, he wrote about the foods that were served at funerals in his home in Duplin County, specifically what his neighbors brought when his great uncle died.

“People showing up heavy-laden with food to the homes of the recently deceased. Hams, fried chicken, oven-baked barbecue chicken, pork chops smothered in gravy, dirty rice, Spanish rice, potato salad galore, slaw, sweet potato casseroles, candied yams, hushpuppies, cornbread, soup, chopped pork barbecue, collard greens, pound cake, chocolate cake, coconut cake, pineapple cake, red velvet cake, sweet potato pie, lemon meringue pie.”

Another author from rural North Carolina who can describe food deliciously is Jason Mott from Columbus County. His latest, “Hell of a Book,” won the National Book Award.
Here is an excerpt from that book in which the parents of a little boy who has hidden himself somewhere in the house try to entice him to reveal himself by cooking his favorite food.

“Before long, the house billowed with the smells and sounds of the boy’s favorite food. The chicken fried in a heavy black skillet and the macaroni bubbled and baked in the oven. There were sugared strawberries, and muscadine grapes, and leftover pound cake that the boy had forgotten was still in the house. Even though he was still hidden, his stomach growled so loudly that he feared it would give him away. But his mother and father didn't seem to hear and so he was able to continue to sit-even with the hunger in the pit of his stomach-and close his eyes and smell all of the dancing aromas. In that moment, invisible and buried in his parents’ love, he was happier than he had ever been. And soon, in spite of his hunger, he was asleep.”

Our great authors’ descriptions of food remind me how much I love the plentiful delicious food that is prepared and consumed at Thanksgiving.

But there is much more to Thanksgiving than the wonderful food.

What I like even more is the time we still save just for families and friends. There is, of course, competition for that time. Football games, parades, concerts and films. But we have to struggle to avoid them or figure out some way to blend them into the family program.

We try to honor Thanksgiving’s central theme of the happy ritual of the family meal. It brings back a time when we sat down together more often, serving each other, passing the food, carving the main dish, saying prayers of thanks, and listening to each other’s stories.

Thanksgiving can be our own private family sacrament of remembrance, reunion, renewal of connections, and thankfulness for life’s blessings. Of course, some will argue that this idea of Thanksgiving is merely a remnant of times past.

They say that, like Christmas, Thanksgiving is becoming a time of selfishness and consumption. If so, it would be a tragedy. If this is a trend, let’s fight it.

We can start by remembering the original Thanksgiving and how thankful the Pilgrims were for food and shelter, showing us how much more blessed we are than were the Pilgrims.

As long as thankfulness is at the center of our Thanksgiving, its celebration will be a blessing to us.

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

Cookie decorating, Christmas crafts and pictures with Santa are just a few enticing things to do at A Very Merry Christmas at the Studio on Dec. 2. Jessica Lallier of Lallier Event Design and Taryn Corrado of Studio 215 are hosting A Very Merry Christmas at the Studio for families in Fayetteville.

The cost is $20 a person. Children under 1 are free. Studio 215 is located at 215 Williams Street in Fayetteville. Proceeds from the event will go to Wreaths Across America to lay wreaths at Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery.

“Fayetteville does not have a lot of family-friendly events,” Lallier said. “We wanted to change that! This will be full of family fun including pictures with Santa, letters to Santa, cookie decorating, Christmas crafts, Christmas movies and popcorn, hot chocolate and s’mores and so much more Christmas cheer.”

Corrado added: “Christmas is the happiest time of the year and my favorite holiday. The biggest reason why is because it is the time of the year I am able to spend time with my family. Military families know all too well what it is like to not have loved ones near for the holidays.”

The placement of wreaths holds special meaning for Lallier.

“I have been passionate about Wreaths Across America for the past five years,” Lallier said. “My sister died on active duty with the Army and is buried at Sandhills. The first Christmas after her passing, we laid wreaths and I realized that if enough funds aren't raised then not every veteran gets a wreath and I couldn't imagine my sister not having one.”

Corrado comes from a military family and has always supported veteran events and causes. Her dad, retired Army, has many "brothers" buried at Sandhills.

“We have the pleasure and honor to be able to give back to Wreaths Across America, plus proudly support other military and veteran nonprofits and organizations,” Corrado said.

Wreaths Across America is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded to continue and expand the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. The effort began in 1992 by Maine businessman Morrill Worcester. The organization’s mission — Remember, Honor, Teach — is carried out in part each year by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies in December at Arlington, as well as at thousands of veterans’ cemeteries and other locations in all 50 states and beyond.

For more information or to sponsor a wreath please visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org. To sponsor a wreath specifically for Sandhills States Veterans Cemetery, visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/pages/166832.

A committee of the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners on Wednesday. Nov. 17 approved a staff-recommended architectural firm to design a new events center.

The center would replace the theater and arena at the Crown Coliseum Complex. Those facilities are scheduled to close in 2025.
The Crown Event Center Committee voted 2-0 to send the recommendation to hire San Diego-based Ewing Cole to the full Board of Commissioners.

The vote came during a called meeting of the committee at the Cumberland County Courthouse.
Ewing Cole is a national architectural firm with offices in Charlotte and Raleigh.

Members of the county selection committee received 11 proposals for the contract from architectural firms. Those were narrowed down to five firms that were invited to interview for the contract. The selection committee includes County Manager Amy Cannon, Assistant County Manager Brian Haney, Chief

Finance Officer Vicki Evans, County Engineering Director Jermaine Walker, and Assistant County Engineer Rick Bryant.

The selection committee spent two days interviewing architectural design candidates and ranked them. Ewing Cole ranked first among the five finalists. Cannon told the commissioners that Ewing Cole initially did not rank as high in her opinion until she heard its presentation. That, she said, put the firm a cut above the remaining four contenders.

Matt DeSilver, of MBP Carolinas, the county’s project manager and owner’s representative for the Crown Event Center project, said the finalists were scored on these criteria:

• Team roles and responsibilities and communications plan.
• Relevant project experience of team members.
• Approach to design in urban location.
• Approach to schedule management.
• Experience with construction manager at risk delivery method.

Voting to accept the staff committee’s recommendation were Commissioners Glenn Adams and Jimmy Keefe. Commissioner Jeannette Council, who chairs the committee, was absent.

The committee members viewed a presentation on conceptual interior designs by DeSilver.
The Board of Commissioners is scheduled to discuss the recommendation at its Nov. 21 meeting. It would vote on a proposed contract on Nov. 28.
Adams said he would like to see a representation of what the outside of the building would look like. If it does not appeal to the public, people won’t attend events held there, he said. Cannon assured Adams that according to the design proposal, it will have a “wow” factor both outside and inside.

The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality and Chemours Fayetteville Works earlier this week agreed to end litigation over a required water filtration system that is supposed to significantly reduce chemicals leaching into the Cape Fear River.

The N.C. DEQ in September issued the discharge permit to Chemours for a treatment system to remove PFAS compounds from contaminated groundwater on the Chemours Fayetteville Works site. The site is along N.C. 87 at the Cumberland and Bladen County line.

The treatment system is part of a larger barrier wall under construction that is designed to reduce PFAS getting into the Cape Fear River and contaminating potential drinking water for communities downstream.

The DEQ’s Division of Water Resources issued a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit for a granular activated carbon (GAC) filtration treatment system. However, after holding public hearings and gathering comments, and after further reviewing data and information contained in the permit record, DEQ changed the permit limits to more stringent removal requirements beyond the 99% required in a 2019 consent order.

A month later, Chemours appealed the DEQ ruling in a Bladen County administrative court. A statement by Chemours stated that it “regrets that we must file an appeal of the final NPDES Permit (NC0090042) issued by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality, Division of Water Resources (NCDEQ) dated September 15, 2022, related to the water treatment system for our mile-long barrier wall designed to further reduce PFAS loading from groundwater into the Cape Fear River.”

Chemours stated that late changes to the permit as issued included future effluent limits that exceed the capabilities of the proposed treatment system. The increased chemical compound removal requirements would subject Chemours “to compliance uncertainty.”

“Chemours takes compliance with our permits and the commitments we make seriously; we are unable to agree to permit terms when we are uncertain if such commitments can be met or exceeded,’’ Chemours said in the statement. “We continue to pursue ambitious timelines to complete and start-up the system to reduce PFAS loading to the river. We are hopeful that we can work with NCDEQ to quickly resolve this matter to continue realizing the significant reductions we have been achieving.’’

Chemours said that for 15 months, it had worked with the DEQ on the design of the water treatment system for the mile-long barrier wall that is under construction and submitted its initial permit application for the system in June 2021. Based on the requirements agreed on under the consent order addendum with N.C. DEQ and Cape Fear River Watch, the water treatment system was designed to remove 99% of PFAS compounds associated with the site before the captured, treated water was discharged.

The nine-page agreement is signed by Dawn Hughes, Chemours plant manager; Sushma Masemore, DEQ assistant secretary; and Kenneth Waldroup, Cape Fear Public Utility Authority executive director. The agreement consists of 14 conditions the parties agree on. The Cape Fear Public Utility Authority intervened in the litigation in support of the DEQ permit requirements.

For the initial six months after the commencement of discharge (the “optimization period”), Chemours agrees that it will optimize the operation of the treatment system and make any modifications or improvements that are technologically feasible to reduce PFAS discharges to the Cape Fear River and to meet all requirements of the NPDES Permit.

Also, starting 45 days after discharges into the Cape Fear River have started, Chemours “shall” provide DEQ and CFPUA monthly reports on the optimizations and technological improvements to the system. The fourth monthly reports must include an assessment of whether Chemours projects its optimizations to the system undertaken during the optimization period will make sure it complies with the final effluent limits for PMPA and PFMOAA.

The agreement also gives DEQ enforcement discretion in the event of any violations due to the treatment system failing effluent limits for chemicals discharged.

If Chemours can demonstrate to DEQ that complying with the effluent limits for PMPA and PFMOAA chemical components is not technologically feasible within the time frame established in the NPDES permit, Chemours may apply for a modification to the NPDES Permit.

North Carolina State University environmental researchers earlier this month announced that blood samples taken from among residents living adjacent to the site have a higher degree of PFAS in their bodies than the national average.

N.C. 59 is being eliminated in Cumberland County and will be redesignated as a secondary route, the North Carolina Department of Transportation said in a release.

The state route consists of about 8 miles that runs through portions of Hope Mills and Fayetteville.
At the request of both municipalities, the N.C. Department of Transportation is re-designating the route from N.C. 59 to Secondary Route 1596, the department said in the release.

“However, the route’s street names will be retained – Main Street within Hope Mills, and Hope Mills Road within Fayetteville,’’ the state DOT said.

The department’s traffic services unit began removing about 40 “N.C. 59” signs this week, the release said.
Locally, elected officials asked for the change in an effort to redirect commercial truck traffic, which prefers using state or U.S. highways, the release said.

“The goal of the two cities is to make this route less congested and safer for pedestrians,’’ the release said.

“We are happy to work with our local partners, who suggested this change to help make this route more neighborhood friendly,” said Drew Cox, the Division 6 engineer. “We evaluated their recommendation and agreed this highway designation is no longer necessary.”

Commercial trucks will continue to use N.C. 162 and Interstate 295 to better navigate this area of the county.

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center has put restrictions on which units people under age 16 can visit because of the continuing high number of RSV and flu cases in the Fayetteville area.

The restrictions also apply at Betsy Johnson Hospital in Dunn, which is part of the Cape Fear Valley Health system.

The restrictions affect anyone younger than 16 with the exception of parents and patients, according to a news release.
As of Nov. 17, the medical center reported 23 patients with the flu, 11 patients with respiratory syncytial virus, and 13 patients with COVID-19, the release said.

Visitors younger than 16 will not be allowed in Cape Fear Valley Medical Center’s Family Centered Care Unit; Neonatal Intensive Care Unit; pediatrics or pediatric intensive care unit; or the labor and delivery unit. At Betsy Johnson Hospital, the restrictions apply to the labor and delivery and pediatrics units.
Other areas of the hospitals remain open for visitors 12 and older who are with a parent or guardian, according to the release.

“We feel this is a necessary step to protect the vulnerable populations in these units at this time,” said Susan Dees, chief nursing officer of Cape Fear Valley Health.

Cape Fear Valley’s current visitation policy is available online at www.capefearvalley.com/visit.
Under current policy, most patients who have not tested positive for COVID-19 are allowed as many as two visitors at a time between 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., the news release said. Some units have more restrictive visitation rules. All non-COVID patients are allowed to have one visitor stay overnight in the patient’s room if space allows, but overnight visitors cannot leave and return after 8 p.m.

COVID-19 patients are allowed one visitor per day between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m., the release said. They must wear masks and gowns during their visit, the release said.

In the Emergency Department, visitors are not allowed in the waiting room, but one visitor is allowed when the patient has been assigned a room.

Time to rake those leaves to the curb.

Loose-leaf pickup will begin Monday, Nov. 21 in Fayetteville, according to a city news release.

Fayetteville-Cumberland Parks & Recreation workers will use special equipment to collect piles of loose leaves outside residences. The pick-up schedule will be based on ZIP codes and starts with ZIP code 28314, the release said.

Residents should pile loose leaves and pine straw at the curb on the first date of their assigned pickup window.

The pickup schedule is:

• 28314, Nov. 21–Dec. 2.
• 28311, Dec. 5–16.
• 28306 and 28312, Dec. 19–30.
• 28305 and 28303, Jan. 2-13.
• 28301, Jan. 16-27.
• 28304, Jan. 30–Feb. 10.

Residents are asked to follow these guidelines:

• Place leaves and pine straw curbside before your first scheduled day of pickup.
• Piles should be leaves and pine straw only. Tree limbs and other yard debris are prohibited.
• Leaves and pine straw should be on the curb and away from the road and storm drains.
• Leaves should not be left over yard decorations, meter panels or any other utility equipment close to the ground.
• Leaves that are put out in sturdy bags or containers on your regular yard debris pickup day will be collected weekly.

Visit loose leaf collection policies for details on loose-leaf collection dates by ZIP code; to track the progress by ZIP code; and to learn about more options for yard debris pickup. Bad weather may cause delays in pickup, the release said. For more information, call 910-433-1329.

Diabetes affects millions of people across the globe. Data from the International Diabetes Federation indicates that the number of adults with diabetes reached 537 million in 2021.
Despite a growing awareness of the disease and ad campaigns designed to educate individuals about diabetes prevention, the number of people with diabetes is predicted to rise by more than 100 million by 2030 and reach 783 million by 2045.

Diabetes occurs when the pancreas does not produce sufficient insulin or cannot effectively utilize the insulin it produces. When an individual has diabetes, various parts of that person’s body can be affected. Recognizing how diabetes affects the body can shed light on just how debilitating the disease can become.

Eyes

The National Eye Institute notes that chronically high blood sugar from diabetes can cause damage in the retina that ultimately leads to diabetic retinopathy. That’s because excessive sugar in the blood can lead to the blockage of tiny blood vessels that nourish the retina. That blockage effectively cuts off the blood supply to the retina, prompting the eye to attempt to grow new blood vessels. However, the Mayo Clinic notes that these new vessels do not develop properly and can leak easily. The longer a person has diabetes and the less controlled their blood sugar is, the more likely they are to develop diabetic retinopathy, which can cause blindness.

Heart

According to the Michigan-based Beaumont Health, individuals with diabetes are at a higher risk for developing heart disease at a younger age and in a more severe form than those without diabetes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that this link is due to the damage that high blood sugar causes to the vessels and nerves that control the heart. In addition, people with diabetes are more likely to have high blood pressure, too much LDL, or “bad,” cholesterol in their bloodstream and high triglycerides, which is a type of fat in the blood. Each of these conditions increases a person’s risk for heart disease.

Skin

Diabetes also affects the skin. In fact, the Michigan-based not-for-profit group Beaumont Health notes that a skin issue is often the first sign that a person has diabetes. That’s because diabetes damages blood vessels in the skin, leading to issues such as diabetic dermopathy. Diabetic dermopathy is characterized by brown, raised patches of skin, typically on the legs. The American Academy of Dermatology reports that, when diabetes affects the skin, this is often a sign that blood sugar levels are too high. The AAD offers a list and brief rundown of the various ways diabetes and prediabetes can affect the skin at aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/diabetes-warning-signs.

Kidneys

The National Kidney Foundation notes that diabetes damages small blood vessels throughout the body, including in the kidneys. When vessels in the kidneys are damaged, the kidneys cannot clean blood properly. As a result, the body retains more water and salt than it should, which produces a host of negative consequences, including weight gain and the buildup of waste materials in the blood. In addition, elevated blood sugar levels force the kidneys to work harder. Over time, all that extra work can lead to kidney failure.

Diabetes is potentially deadly, yet often preventable. By taking measures to safeguard themselves against diabetes, individuals also are protecting various parts of their body from the ripple effects of the disease.

Once again this year, Beth Israel Congregation, where I serve as rabbi, will be participating in a local Interfaith Thanksgiving Service with several nearby faith communities. In thinking forward to this wonderful tradition, I’d like to share a memory from several decades ago when I was part of a central New Jersey interfaith group and their annual Thanksgiving service. Like here, it too would rotate among different houses of worship.

One year the local Roman Catholic Church, having just completed construction of a new building, was pleased to host the event and show off their new facility to the broader community.

At the time, my family and I lived in a townhome development and had become friendly with our next door neighbors — a single mother and her daughter who was a year or so older than my eldest son. The kids, about 5 and 6 years old, often played together. Coincidentally, this mom and daughter were also active parishioners of that particular Catholic Church. We all decided to travel together to the Interfaith Thanksgiving Service, and in preparation we told my son, Amiel, just to behave respectfully and in a similar manner to his friend Angela, since it was her congregation.

As we entered the building the kids were excitedly rushing ahead of us into a large reception lobby. After a moment I realized where Angela was headed with Amiel close behind — straight to the holy water. Not knowing whether it was considered sacrilegious for a non-Catholic to touch the holy water, I recall chasing after them, calling my son’s name to try to stop him. In my vain chase, I distinctly recall feeling like the old TV image of actor Lee Majors as the Six Million Dollar Man, depicted moving in slow motion. Unfortunately, unable to catch him in time, he dipped his hand into the holy water just as Angela did; although, I was successfully able to reach him before he emulated her by crossing himself.

After the interfaith service I introduced myself to one of the younger priests at that large parish, and told him what had happened earlier. He was exceedingly gracious and assured me that no harm or ritual defilement had occurred. Indeed, he gave us all a private tour of the new church and all of us its facilities, describing various parts of the building and its accoutrements, and patiently answering numerous questions.

That story always brings a smile to my lips — and allows me to tease my son as to how he was almost “baptized” a Catholic. More importantly, it also serves as a small reminder to me of the kind of attitude we should always bring to interfaith occasions; respect for and even interest in each other and our unique differences, kindness and generosity towards one another, and especially tolerance for the ignorance and misunderstandings which we all are bound to exhibit unintentionally in unfamiliar settings. Thanksgiving should be a time not only of gratitude for what we have and who we are, but for the glorious diversity of the world and people around us.

Editor's note: The Interfaith Thanksgiving Service this year will be on Nov. 21 at 7 p.m. at Beth Israel Congregation at 2204 Morganton Road. Participants who will be represented at the Interfaith Thanksgiving Service include the Fayetteville Friends Meeting (Religious Society of Friends-Quakers), Beth Israel Congregation, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Courtyard Church of Christ, Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, Masjid Ibn Omar Sayyid, and the St. James Lutheran Church. The Interfaith Council of Fayetteville asks that everyone bring a nonperishable donation to share with the Fayetteville Urban Ministries.

As inflation continues to put a strain on budgets, talk of an upcoming recession has Americans worried about their finances.
Prices on everyday items continue to rise and consumers are trying to find ways to make their dollar stretch further while safeguarding their money against the potential challenges a recession may bring.

The future may be difficult to predict, but preparing now can help consumers protect their financial health during a recession.

A recent Experian survey found that two in three U.S. adults are concerned about a recession occurring in the United States. Consumers are most worried about the affordability of routine expenses, with 73% concerned that the price of everyday items like gas, groceries and rent will continue to rise to a level they can’t afford.

Meanwhile, 55% harbor supply chain concerns and 38% are stressed about the affordability of big, planned purchases such as a home or a car.

As recession worries grow, more Americans are sizing up their finances to see where they stand. Only 48% are confident that they can financially handle a recession, and two in five believe that they’ll need to rely on credit to cover essential and unexpected expenses over the next three months.

In fact, 27% have already increased their credit card debt within the past three months.
This trend is accompanied by additional anxieties: two in three survey respondents are concerned to some degree that their credit score will negatively affect their ability to access credit in the next three months.
Being proactive is key to weathering financial storms, yet less than half of consumers have prepared for a recession when it comes to their finances and credit.

Those who have are finding different ways to do so: 49% have cut non-essential expenses like entertainment and vacations, 45% have created a budget and 40% have paid down debt.
While these are effective actions, there are other steps consumers can take to understand their credit history and safeguard their credit.

Consumers should check their credit report and credit score regularly to know exactly where they stand in the event that they need to apply for credit, or simply to be better informed as they prepare to pay down their debt ahead of an economic decline.
They can get a free credit report and credit score from Experian (Spanish-language credit reports are also available) as well as access to free financial tools, an auto insurance shopping service and credit card marketplace.

Those who need help increasing their credit score can sign up for Experian Boost. This free feature enables consumers to add their monthly payments for cell phone bills, utility bills, rent and video streaming services to their credit history to potentially increase their FICO Score instantly. To learn more, visit experian.com/boost.

“Inflation and recession fears are putting pressure on consumer’s finances, but proactively planning for the worst can help consumers make it through potential challenges. Many consumers are already taking great steps to prepare, like creating a budget and paying down their debt, and we encourage them to utilize other available resources and tools to help,” says Rod Griffin, senior director of Public Education and Advocacy at Experian.

The official schedule for the 28th annual Cucalorus Film Festival has been released and tickets are now on sale for all events.

This year’s festival will take place Nov. 16-20 in downtown Wilmington and will showcase 136 films, beginning with the Wilmington-made opening night feature film, “The Devil’s Stomping Ground.”

Other features include thought-provoking documentaries like the closing night film, “Rise and Rebuild: A Tale of Three Cities” and the strange-but-true tale of “The Pez Outlaw.” From dark comedies like “Sick of Myself” to the crowd-pleasing “Sarcastic Fringehead” comedy shorts block, this year’s lineup has something for every film-goer.

Screenings take place at Thalian Hall, on campus at UNCW and also at the recently renovated community cinema, Jengo’s Playhouse.

Film selections range from “Butterfly in the Sky,” a documentary about the beloved children’s literary TV show “Reading Rainbow,” to “Our Father, the Devil,” a psychological thriller about trauma, power, guilt, and the devils hiding within us all. Featuring Oscar-worthy performances, “Our Father the Devil” has taken home awards at every festival, including Best Narrative Feature at Sidewalk Film Festival and the Audience Award at Tribeca Film Festival. Director Ellie Foumbi will be in attendance during Cucalorus and will participate in Q&A sessions following both screenings.

As always, the festival offers up a sweet selection of short films curated into blocks named after weird animals like “Leafy Seadragon” (docs about land) “Pleasing Fungus Beetle” (short docs about family), and of course our annual short comedy showcase this year is called “Sarcastic Fringehead.”

Taking cinema beyond the screen, the Cucalorus Performances program welcomes Isabella Rossellini back to Wilmington to perform her one-woman show, “Darwin’s Smile." This ultimate Bus to Lumberton experience has been 25 years in the making, tickets are limited, so grab yours now at cucalorus.eventive.org.

Fan favorite Alex Tatarsky returns to the stage with her new show “Dirt Trip.” Julia Desmond’s “Acme Revue” brings a dynamic combination of visual art, comedy and music.

The new Conversations program highlights the ability filmmakers have to generate discussion and connection within their storytelling. This year’s Conversations program explores Black history in Wilmington with wilmingtoNColor, the OUT Dance Project, and “The Making of the Nuevo South," a television series about the Latino immigrant experience in the South.

The full lineup of films is available at cucalorus.eventive.org/schedule. Grab a Pegasorus Pass to gain access to the whole film festival, plus parties, conversations and other events. Access to “Darwin’s Smile” is not included in the Pegasorus Pass.

Cucalorus is sponsored by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, City of Wilmington, New Hanover County, University of North Carolina Wilmington, the National Endowment for the Arts, the North Carolina Arts Council and over 70 businesses.

Cucalorus is a multi-disciplinary organization supporting emerging and innovative artists through an annual film festival, two regional festivals, a residency program, a community cinema, an outdoor film series, and youth education programs. Cucalorus brings people together to celebrate, discover, and create. The annual festival provides a non-competitive environment to support independent filmmakers, performance artists, and community organizers who use storytelling to transform our world. More information is available at www.cucalorus.org.

It’s finally the perfect time of year to get outside. The beautiful North Carolina foliage acts as a colorful backdrop for families all over the Sandhills wanting to don their lightest jackets and enjoy weather that’s beginning to lean toward crisp in the early morning and evenings. The only question is: what is there to do?

The Fayetteville History Museum has put together a “unique, self-serve, downtown history adventure” to satisfy anyone looking for something different to do outside this season. Throughout November, a map full of clues will lead big and little sleuths around downtown Fayetteville to discover its architecture and history with new eyes.

“It’s a great way to use your brain power and your foot power to experience downtown,” Heidi Bleazey, Historic Properties Coordinator, shared.

While the Fayetteville History Museum is known for its knowledgeable staff and informative guided tours, a scavenger hunt of this scope is new territory for the museum. The Downtown Cornerstone Scavenger Hunt is an opportunity to show just how fun history can be.

Participants can grab a guide from the Fayetteville History Museum Tuesday-Saturday during regular operating hours and begin their search for cornerstones embedded in the historical buildings around the city. A cornerstone is a stone that traditionally forms the base corner of a building, joining two walls. As many historic buildings in downtown Fayetteville date back over a century — participants can find these architectural gems in some of downtown’s oldest structures.

Bleazey is especially excited for people to get out and about in Fayetteville to see “nuggets of history” for themselves.

“I love that the hunt is taking people beyond the core of Hay Street,” she explained. “We’re taking them off the dine-shop-eat path and inviting them to stand right where people stood over 100 years ago. These buildings we go by on our daily business are what remains of those who wanted to see change and bring change to this area.”

The self-guided scavenger hunt can be completed all at once or broken up over several days throughout the month. Once all items have been located, participants can return their completed sheets to the history museum for a prize.

Although the Downtown Cornerstone Historical Scavenger Hunt is designed for history lovers aged six to 96, Bleazey believes it’s a great outing for anyone looking to experience history up close.

“It’s a perfect hunt for anyone who wants to experience downtown and get a taste of our local history,” she said.

The hunt is ideal for family outings, team building, or a newly stationed soldier wanting to learn more about the area. Participating also creates an opportunity to discover new shops and restaurants in the bustling downtown area.

Ultimately, through this event, Bleazey hopes people develop an appetite for Fayetteville history, a topic she feels very passionate about and is proud to share with others.

“From its roots, Fayetteville has been a community that doesn’t always follow textbook history. The more you look, you see people and events that don’t follow standard American history. I love being a go-between for people from the past and people of the [present] community.”

The Downtown Cornerstone Scavenger Hunt is free and open to the public. Participants can pick up their blank Scavenger Hunt guide sheets Tuesday-Saturday at 325 Franklin St. in downtown Fayetteville.