As a relatively new grandmother, I get frequent “growing like a weed” comments, and my grandbabies are doing just that—getting bigger and better every day.
So too is their home state, a fact that warms this tarheel-born and-bred writer’s heart.
Recent data from the US Census Bureau confirms that North Carolina bounced into the fastest growing state spot in 2025 with a whopping 84,000 new residents, bumping both Texas (2024) and Florida (2023) down the line. We now have nearly 11.2 million residents, with most of our growth coming from what demographers call “domestic migration,” people leaving other states to come to North Carolina. Some projections have us passing Georgia and Ohio to become the 7th largest state in the early 2030s. There is also the possibility of enhanced political clout at the national level with an additional seat in Congress based on our population boom.
And who is coming?
Many are people interested in high-paying jobs in banking and in technology. They may actually “work” in another state through remote communications, but want to live and raise families here. Access to both the ocean and mountains, cities large enough to have attractive amenities but are not metropolises, and temperate weather are big draws. Retirees are coming for many of the same reasons.
Population growth is clearly desirable in all sorts of ways—an expanding economy with more workers, additional investment and tax base, and more consumers to purchase goods and services. Our incoming residents are also likely to be more diverse culturally and educationally than our native population, which makes North Carolina a more interesting place to be.
Growth brings its challenges as well.
More people mean more public needs, including public services like roads, bridges, and public transit. Rush hour in Charlotte, Raleigh, and—yes, Fayetteville—confirms this in about 30 seconds. Our new residents need places to live, which can drive up both demand for housing and its affordability. More people call for both more and more extensive health care options, and children they bring with them need more, and in many cases, better schools. More people generate urban sprawl that eats into natural areas and farm lands and creates various environmental issues, as we have seen in both our mountains and our coastal areas.
Most of our new residents are drawn to urban centers, both for jobs and for culture. This means they spend their money there, further exacerbating North Carolina’s increasingly clear urban-rural divide. Urban areas with larger tax bases and more educated residents are thriving, while rural areas can rarely compete with the schools, health care, and amenities of our cities. Political and cultural conflicts can be threatening and highly divisive.
All of which is to say, North Carolina’s future requires smart planning at both the state and local levels. Our General Assembly must be willing to invest in our state’s infrastructure, both in cities and in rural areas, instead of cutting budgets and giving tax breaks to top earners and corporations, many of which are based outside North Carolina. It must stop starving public education and sending our tax dollars to barely regulated private schools, many of them with a religious slant. Local governments must be creative in attracting new residents to their areas and persistent in their efforts to provide quality education and health care.
The bottom line here is that if North Carolina does not continue to offer a high quality of life attractive to newcomers, some of our “domestic migrants” are going to politely migrate to some other state that does.

According to folklore, extraordinary beings resent being confined within ordinary spaces. In “The Fisherman and the Jinni,” one of the stories Sheherazade tells her misguided husband in One Thousand and One Nights, the being in question is so angry at being imprisoned for centuries in a bottle that he has to be tricked into granting wishes rather than killing his lowly liberator outright. In Disney’s Aladdin, the genie isn’t so vengeful but still describes his confinement as “phenomenal cosmic powers” uncomfortably crammed into an “itty bitty living space.”
The real world isn’t teeming with mystic flasks or misty sorcerers. But to the people who first told fairy tales around campfires, our modern abilities to tame the elements, construct labor-saving devices, cure diseases, and fly through air and space would look an awful lot like sorcery. And, truth be told, our real world is teeming with would-be heroes trying desperately to bottle up disruptive discoveries and technologies.
Take artificial intelligence. Might it displace workers, deform journalism, debase literature, and place destructive new weapons in the hands of diabolical foes? Yes. Caution is warranted. It cannot, however, be un-invented, permanently stunted, or monopolized by a few self-appointed guardians. To believe otherwise is, indeed, to remain in a fantasy world. As a practical matter, we have no choice but to develop and use AI, as prudently and productively as we can, so as to maximize its benefits and minimize its risks.
I feel the same way about a less “gee-whiz” innovation that nevertheless presents promise as well as some peril: telehealth.
Although the digital technologies and practice models behind telehealth services predate the COVID-19 pandemic, it catalyzed a dramatic expansion. Patients needed help. Hospitals were, by necessity, limiting exposure. Physicians, therapists, and other providers were, too. So, barriers to telehealth fell. Only some were reinstated after the crisis.
Over the past five years, this innovation has proven itself to be cost-beneficial. “Telehealth is not a silver bullet,” wrote Josh Archambault and Joshua Reynolds, coauthors of a new report on the subject, “but it remains one of the most efficient and cost-effective ways to expand access to care, particularly in underserved rural communities.”
Published by the Massachusetts-based Pioneer Institute and Texas-based Cicero Institute, the report grades the 50 states according to how much they’ve adjusted their administrative and regulatory policies to facilitate provider and patient use of telehealth.
North Carolina, I’m sad to say, fares poorly in the Pioneer-Cicero study. We earn, and I do mean earn, one of the 10 failing grades Archambault and Reynolds assign. We make it too difficult for North Carolinians to obtain services from medical providers in other states. We don’t explicitly define telehealth in a neutral manner, allowing for a range of time sequences and modes (live vs. prerecorded, audio-only vs. full video, live check-ins vs. remote monitoring of conditions, etc.) based on patient and provider preferences. And we don’t allow nurse practitioners to deliver the full range of services for which they are licensed — whether remotely or in-person — without the costly and largely superfluous oversight of physicians.
Before reading the report, I was generally familiar with the case for telehealth reform and expansion. I’ve written about it before. What I didn’t yet know, however, is that the federal government has created new financial incentives for the practice under its Rural Health Transformation Program. About half of the $50 billion in grants will be awarded according to policy mix, not just baseline need, with access to telehealth represented in the grant formula both directly and indirectly.
The A-plus states of Arizona, Colorado, Delaware and Utah know what North Carolina has yet to accept: telehealth is here to stay. It’s never going back in the bottle. So let’s grant it three wishes: 1) define telehealth properly, 2) permit patients to use it freely, and 3) empower nurse practitioners to deliver it efficiently. The results won’t be miraculous. But telehealth can expand access while moderating costs. That’s good enough.

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).

The 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics kick off on Friday, Feb. 6, with opening ceremonies being televised by NBC at 8 p.m. EST. However, the Olympics actually start before, on Feb. 4, when the qualifying rounds for curling begin. Hockey kicks off on Feb. 5, and before the opening ceremony on Feb. 6, the figure skating team event gets underway.
I’ve been an Olympics junkie since 1994. That was the year of Nancy and Tonya. But while we were all distracted by Nancy’s attack and rehabilitation and Tonya’s blade and skate lace issues during the event, Oksana Baiul, a 15-year-old phenom, was making her case to be Olympic Champion. I watched with my grandma. I was 8 years old, and I was hooked.
The Olympics are a celebration of human exceptionalism, a time when we can see the limits people can push themselves to. It’s the time when we all become experts in niche sports for three weeks and then promptly forget that knowledge for the next four years. Team USA has several notable names to watch for in these games.
Lindsay Vonn is back. At 41 years old, Vonn is looking to add another gold to her name. Her first Olympic gold medal was won back in 2010. She last competed at an Olympic Games in 2018. She’s looking to add to her trophy case in the downhill and Super G events. A wreck the weekend before the Olympics doesn't seem to be keeping her out.
Alysa Liu is a 20-year-old figure skater and current world champion. She competed in Beijing in 2022, where she placed sixth overall. She competed at the World Championships that year, where she took third place. Liu’s career to that point had been on an upward trajectory. She had been national champion, she was the youngest female skater to land both a triple axel and a quad lutz in the same program. But after the World Championships in 2022, she decided to step away from the sport and she retired.
Liu decided she missed the adrenaline rush of competition, and she came back in the 2024-25 season. After a slow start, Liu made it to the top of the world at the World Championships in Boston in 2025. This season, Liu also won the Grand Prix Final, one of the most prestigious and difficult titles in figure skating. Liu is a favorite for the podium, but will be up against tough competition in teammates Amber Glenn and Isabeau Levito, and Japanese National Champion Kaori Sakamoto and her teammates Ami Nakai and Mone Chiba.
Jessie Diggins will be competing in her fourth Olympics, and searching for her second Olympic gold medal in the 10km freestyle cross-country event. Diggins is the most decorated cross-country skier in history.
Erin Jackson is back in her third Olympics. She became the first Black American to medal in speed skating, and the first Black woman to win an individual gold medal in Beijing. She will be competing in the 500m race.
Back to figure skating, we have the Quad God, Ilia Malinin. Malinin is the only person in the world to have landed a quad axel, a jump with four and a half revolutions. With 2 World Championship titles, three Grand Prix Final titles and four National Championship titles under his belt, Malinin is already quite the decorated skater. This will be his first Olympic appearance, and he is the heavy favorite for individual gold in the men’s event.
Team USA in men’s hockey is looking to make a splash, with a strong roster going to Milano Cortina. They will have to overcome the juggernaut of Canada and hope to finish higher than their previous Olympic outings. On the women’s side, the USA hasn’t finished lower than third place since women’s hockey was introduced to the Olympics in 1998. Women’s hockey has grown exponentially in the U.S. over the last several years with the creation of the Professional Women’s Hockey League.
The Olympics will be live-streamed throughout the entirety of the event on NBC’s streaming service, Peacock. The competition will be fierce, and we’ll be cheering on the athletes as they show us all what being exceptional means.

Cape Fear Botanical Garden at 536 North Eastern Blvd. will open its gates after hours for a special adults-only event that blends nightlife, nature and interactive discovery in a setting rarely seen by visitors.
Garden After Dark invites guests aged 18 and older to explore the Garden from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Feb. 14, beneath the moonlight for one evening of music, movement and hands-on experiences. Designed for couples and singles alike, the event offers an alternative to traditional Valentine’s season outings by transforming the familiar landscape into a vibrant nighttime destination.
As daylight fades, a live DJ will provide music for an outdoor dance floor surrounded by illuminated pathways and glowing displays. Guests are encouraged to move throughout the Garden, where activity stations are spread across the property to create an immersive experience. Trivia under the stars will challenge participants with nature-themed questions, while oversized glowing yard games and illuminated bubbles add a playful element throughout the evening.
These features are intended to encourage interaction and exploration in a relaxed, social environment.
Live animal encounters will offer guests the opportunity to observe and learn about fascinating creatures up close. Interactive science stations will highlight the unexpected and curious side of nature, reinforcing the Garden’s educational mission while keeping the experience accessible and engaging for adult audiences.
A campfire lounge will provide a quieter gathering space, featuring softly glowing red and pink flames designed to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Food and beverage options will be available throughout the grounds, including craft cocktails, coffee and light fare, allowing attendees to shape their own pace for the evening.
Garden After Dark represents the Garden’s ongoing effort to expand programming beyond daytime hours and traditional formats. The event is part of a broader strategy to attract new audiences while maintaining a balance between entertainment, education and environmental awareness. The Garden’s ability to host programs like this is rooted in a vision that began more than three decades ago.
In 1989, a small group of Fayetteville gardening enthusiasts united around the idea of creating a botanical garden that would inspire learning, preserve native plant life and serve as a community asset. That effort led to the formation of the Friends of the Botanical Garden organization, which helped mobilize volunteers and supporters.
The group secured a lease on 67 acres of city-owned land formerly known as Pope Park and developed an ambitious 20-year master plan to guide growth and development. Early milestones included identifying more than 450 native plant species, enrolling hundreds of legacy members and publishing the Garden’s first newsletter. These early efforts laid the foundation for the Garden’s long-term success.
Today, Cape Fear Botanical Garden functions as both a nature retreat and an educational resource, offering seasonal exhibits, youth programming, workshops and community events throughout the year. Special events such as Garden After Dark reflect the Garden’s commitment to continued evolution while remaining aligned with its original mission.
Membership support remains a key component of the Garden’s sustainability. Members receive unlimited daily admission, discounted event pricing and access to exclusive programs.
In addition, membership includes reciprocal admission to more than 300 botanical gardens across North America through the American Horticultural Society, extending opportunities for exploration and learning beyond the local area. Multiple membership levels are available to accommodate individuals, families and supporters.
Tickets for Garden After Dark are $30 for the general public and $25 for Garden members. Tickets are available online at https://shop.capefearbg.org/SelectEvent.aspx?eventID=1000136.
As Fayetteville continues to grow, Cape Fear Botanical Garden remains a space where education, conservation and community intersect. Garden After Dark offers adults an opportunity to experience that legacy in a new way, revealing how the Garden transforms after sunset.
For one evening, familiar paths will glow, science will feel playful and nature will take on a more energetic character, reminding visitors that discovery does not end when the sun goes down.

Monster trucks are not just vehicles-they are 10,000 pound beasts that shake arenas and create memories fans carry with them for decades. Sport pulls people through raw power, theatrical personalities, and the concept of physics seems like a mere suggestion
—Andrea F on Unsplash, More Than Motors

The Crown Coliseum at 1960 Coliseum Dr. will bring the excitement with the Monster X Tour on Feb. 14. A Pit Party at will kick off at noon, and attendees can take a photo with a monster truck. Pit party passes must be accompanied by an event ticket. Guests can also experience riding a truck and get the ride of their life on board a monster truck.
The show times for the Monster X Tour are 1:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Standard admission tickets start at $29.25, and kids’ advance tickets are $28.60. A Family Four Pack starts at $33.60 per ticket. Pit Party tickets can be purchased for noon and 6 p.m. on Feb. 14. All tickets can be purchased at https://www.crowncomplexnc.com/events/detail/monster-truck.
“We are excited to welcome the Monster X Tour to the Crown Complex on February 14 for two amazing shows. The high- octane monster truck event delivers incredible action for fans of all ages, and we are proud to bring another unforgettable experience to the community,” said Gary Rogers, Director of Marketing.
Why are Monster Trucks so incredibly popular? It is due to the adrenaline-pumping sensory experience of trucks performing high-flying leaps, backflips, and car -crushing stunts. These family-friendly, loud, and action-paced events appeal to all ages, often featuring free-style competitions that bring childhood sandbox fantasies to life in a controlled environment. The sheer size of massive vehicles performing acrobatic stunts like donuts, wheelies, and backflips. A psychological and cultural connection for the love of bigness, power, and dominance, featuring iconic trucks like Grave Digger, which are also recognizable from toys and media.
Kids love monster trucks because of the sensory excitement of loud noises and bright colors. These invincible-seeming, massive trucks create high-energy action that is easy to get excited about. Monster Trucks are a symbol of power and strength. Trucks can crush, jump, and dominate other vehicles, allowing kids to feel a sense of adventure. The Pit Party feature of Monster X event serves as an accessibility and connection experience for kids. Getting a ride provides opportunities for children to see the massive machines up close, meet the drivers, and feel connected to the action.
The Monster X Tour takes place on Feb. 14, and as it is Valentine’s Day, it can also be a powerful opportunity to foster meaningful connections beyond romance by focusing on friendship and family. The Monster X Tour at the Crown Complex on Valentine’s Day is family and friendship bonding and connection for lifetime memories.
Create a family and Friendship meaning memory beyond romance for Valentine’s Day 2026. Experience the Monster X Tour with kids, family, and friends at the Crown Coliseum.

High-level hospitality in a casual dining setting—that’s how Chris Beal, owner of Bounty Farmhouse Kitchen and Tap at 4150 Sycamore Dairy Rd., describes their dining experience. The spot opened in September 2025, introducing the Fayetteville area to a seasonally rotating menu defined by locally sourced ingredients. Now, they’re bringing “a true taste of North Carolina” to Southern Pines with a second location opening right next door to the Target shopping center.
Their farm-to-table approach gathers inspiration from what’s available within a 50 mile radius of the restaurant. Farmers whose practices align with sustainable, regenerative ideals are handpicked and become an integral part of the dishes that ultimately make it onto customers’ plates. These personal relationships and connections keep the restaurant supplied with fresh meat and produce year-round. Bounty’s vision was born part of passion, part of necessity.
Beal, a fifth-generation Chatham County native, says he’s been passionate about farming for a long time. Growing up around farms fueled that passion, and after falling in love with business in college, he entered the restaurant scene. Best known for Tribeca Tavern, a 15-year Cary fixture that serves gourmet burgers, Beal’s journey to raise and source local ingredients began during the COVID-19 pandemic, as the restaurant struggled to secure the right meat cuts. Meat processors had begun butchering more retail cuts for grocery stores and fewer restaurant cuts, seeing that consumers were staying at home. As a result, Beal and his team improvised and ultimately founded Chatham Meat Company.
“During Covid, we couldn’t find beef, so it allowed us to think outside the box. We started buying whole animals and having them butchered. That opened the doors to Chatham Meat Company, which, in turn, led us to want to continue down that farm-to-table concept, which is where Bounty came from,” he explained.
Throughout the transition, they learned just how much meat comes from national and international sources and processing times from slaughter to consumer. For major restaurant suppliers, the length of time from slaughter to consumer is between 60 and 90 days, according to Beal. Alternatively, meat used in both Tribeca Tavern’s and Bounty Farmhouse Kitchen and Tap’s burgers has been slaughtered, aged for two weeks, then butchered and delivered to the restaurant the same week.
“It’s just a much safer, more sustainable alternative,” explained Beal. “With a lot of ground beef that’s sent to restaurants from major suppliers, there’s DNA from a couple hundred different animals. In ours, that ground beef is from that animal.”
When looking for suppliers, Beal says they look for "someone who is willing to commit to the sustainable model of pasture-raised beef and not utilizing feedlots.”
Bounty Farmhouse Kitchen and Tap currently works with 20 local farmers to supply both meat and produce. Beal says their mission with produce and meat is the same.
“We’re trying to look for folks that are going back to regenerative style agriculture—a lot less use of pesticides and herbicides. And folks that are able to keep up with what we’re doing and understand that we have to change the menu quite a bit.”
The changing menu has been one of their biggest challenges so far, but has earned some of their most faithful patrons. When working with local farms, ingredient supply fluctuates not only on a seasonal basis but on a weekly basis.
“We may not have asparagus one day, or we may not have sweet potatoes, but we may have them next week,” Beal said of the fluctuations. “It’s definitely an uphill battle making folks understand that.”
Initially, Beal said they received some negative feedback regarding unavailable menu items. He takes the time to reach out personally and address such concerns.
“It has really been remarkable how few and far between that negative feedback has been. And 99% of those folks turned out to be huge fans of what we were doing once they understood. I mean, we’ve had folks return to dine with us 20-30 times. It’s just unbelievable.”
The Southern Pines location is set to open in early 2026.
“We’re really excited to keep growing,” said Chloe Butler, director of restaurant operations. “But we're never going to grow so much that we forget what we're doing and don’t have a handle on really supporting the community.”
While the Southern Pines location is much smaller than the Fayetteville location, Beal thinks it’s a perfect fit.
“We were approached by the landlord at Southern Pines, who was developing the center near Target, looking for a local company that had the ability to operate at a higher level. With our experience with Tribeca, we explained to them that we were opening a new concept, and it really caught their attention,” he shared. “I think people are really starting to become aware of what they're feeling in their bodies, and I feel like we're in the right place at the right time.”

(Photos courtesy of Bounty Farmhouse Kitchen and Tap)

In every community, there are people whose work becomes more than a job. Their dedication becomes a standard. Their relationships become a legacy. Their presence becomes part of the fabric of the place they serve. For nearly half a century, Joe Thigpen has been one of those rare individuals—steady, humble, loyal, and deeply committed to the people of North Carolina’s beverage industry.
As Joe prepares to close out his extraordinary 48‑year career on Feb. 27, his story stands as a testament to perseverance, gratitude, and the power of genuine human connection.
Joe’s journey began in 1977 with Pepsi, where he started as a Sales/Delivery Driver. It didn’t take long for his work ethic and natural leadership to shine. Within three years, he was promoted to Route Manager, a role he would hold for the next 15 years. Those years were formative—not just professionally, but personally.
He learned from seasoned veterans who shaped his understanding of the business. He built friendships that would last a lifetime. And he took on major responsibilities, including overseeing the Fort Bragg military base and managing fountain sales and full‑service vending operations across eight counties. Even then, Joe wasn’t just delivering beverages—he was delivering reliability, trust, and service that people could count on.
In 1992, Joe stepped into a new era with Atlas Distributing, an Anheuser‑Busch distributor. As Route Manager, he oversaw grocery and convenience store accounts with the same steady hand and personal touch that had defined his Pepsi years.
When Atlas was purchased by Worth Harris of Harris Wholesale, Joe transitioned into the On‑Premise Sales Manager role. It was a natural fit. Joe thrived working in the hospitality industry—people, bars, restaurants, and special events—places where relationships mattered and his reputation for honesty and follow‑through made him a trusted partner.
Even as the company changed hands again and became Jeffrey’s Distributing, Joe stayed the course. He remained loyal, dedicated, and committed to serving his customers with excellence.
After 27 years in the Anheuser‑Busch distribution world, Joe faced something he had never experienced: job loss. When Jeffrey’s was sold, Adam’s Beverage chose not to retain him. For the first time in his career, Joe found himself walking away from a company without a plan for what came next.
But life has a way of opening the right doors at the right time.
As Joe walked out that day, his phone buzzed twice—two text messages from longtime competitors, Healy Wholesale, then owned by Mac and Fritz Healy. They didn’t hesitate. They didn’t wait. They reached out because they knew the kind of man Joe was.
And Joe knew exactly what that meant.
“God truly is good,” he says.
What began as friendly competition became a place of belonging. At Healy Wholesale, Joe found not just a job, but a home. Working alongside Brent Matthews and Paul Odom became one of the great blessings of his career. He speaks of them with deep gratitude and admiration, crediting them for teaching him, supporting him, and allowing him to finish his career with pride.
As On‑Premise Sales Manager, Joe experienced something rare and meaningful. The bartenders, managers, and owners he served didn’t just buy from him—they believed in him. Their loyalty created events, placements, and successes that made it look like Joe “sold it,” but he insists he didn’t.
“It was them,” he says. “Their trust, their appreciation, their generosity. They made me feel like a superhero.”
That humility is exactly why they trusted him.
If Joe makes it to the end of February, he will have spent 48 years in the beverage business—and, as he jokes, “he’s only 30 years old.” It’s a miracle indeed. But the real miracle is the impact he leaves behind.
Titles or territories do not define Joe’s career. It’s defined by the people he lifted, the friendships he built, and the respect he earned across an entire industry. From Fort Bragg to Fayetteville, from grocery stores to nightclubs, from Pepsi to Healy Wholesale—Joe has been a constant source of integrity, kindness, and professionalism. As he closes this chapter, Joe offers sincere gratitude to everyone who trained him, supported him, worked alongside him, and believed in him. He carries each of those relationships with him, and he credits them for shaping the man and professional he became.
His story is one of resilience, loyalty, and grace. It is the story of a man who showed up every day ready to work, ready to serve, and ready to make someone’s day a little better. And now, as he steps into retirement, the community he served for nearly five decades stands ready to honor him—not just for the career he built, but for the life he lived while building it.

(Photo: Joe Thigpen's 48 year career and retirement will be celebrated by the community on Feb. 15 at the Gates Four Country Club. For more information, see page 4. Photos courtesy of Bill Bowman)

Last year, the luminescent blue lights of the inaugural Blueprint Awards could be seen from the front door of 226 The Warehouse, as honorees, their guests, supporters of Book Black Women, and Fayetteville leaders and decision-makers filled the space to celebrate.
The night was full of creative expression, acceptance speeches, beautiful dresses, dapper suites and an air of elegance and sophistication that only Book Black Women can bring to an event. This year’s awards ceremony will be nothing short of a physical manifestation of giving flowers to some of Fayetteville’s best and brightest.
The second annual Blueprint Awards are set for Saturday, Feb. 28, at Blissful Alchemists located at 414 Ray Avenue from 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online at https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/dngxf9c.
Dinner and cocktail mixer hour are for honorees, but anyone wishing to participate can purchase VIP tickets, which include priority entry during the cocktail hour (Dinner is not included with this ticket). Last year’s theme was Blue, fitting for its first year.
Every inch of the space vibrated with hues of blue and crystals. This year’s theme? “...a fantastical and whimsical, concert-style experience. Enchanted décor and multiple modes of artistic expression are woven throughout the evening, honoring the event’s roots as a concert series while creating a cohesive and memorable experience for guests. I’m encouraging everyone to come dressed as if you’re stepping into an enchanted forest…because you will be,” explained Ayana Washington, Founder and Creative Director of Book Black Women.
The Blueprint Awards made a lasting impression on the Fayetteville community. It highlighted creatives in the city whose work is often not even a category for bigger community awards.
Washington was surprised by the outpouring of support and recognition, stating, “The response to last year’s inaugural Blueprint Awards exceeded our expectations. While we knew there was a need for intentional recognition of cultural excellence in Fayetteville, seeing the community show up so fully affirmed that desire. The energy in the room, the feedback we received afterward, and the continued interest confirmed that people felt proud, inspired, and seen. It was clear that this was a space the community valued and wanted to see continue.”
A few differences are happening this year, the biggest being the number of honorees.
“This year’s award categories were shaped by listening closely to the community and by engaging past Blueprint recipients in the review process. Categories were selected with an emphasis on impact, consistency, leadership, and service rather than visibility alone. We wanted the awards to reflect the many ways people contribute to the creative and cultural ecosystem, including work that often happens behind the scenes,” Washington stated.
While there may have been a scale back, this year’s honorees have more than earned their night in the spotlight.
Washington is excited for those chosen for this year, adding, “This year’s honorees represent a beautiful range of leadership and impact. Sylvia Glanton, recipient of the Innovator Award, is the founder of Future Rich Aunties, where she connects women entrepreneurs to resources and community.
"Stephanie Kegler, recipient of the Health Vanguard Award, is a fitness and expressive movement advocate who inspires wellness and holistic care.
"April Mata, recipient of the Rising Star Award, is a creative manager focused on cultivating growth among artists and creatives.
"Kia Anthony, recipient of the Cultural Stewardship Award, is dedicated to preserving and amplifying Black history through events and education.
"Sheila Cuffee, recipient of the Blueprint Icon Award, is a longtime leader and mentor supporting civic engagement and community initiatives.
"Michael Houck, recipient of the Hand-in-Hand Award, is a strategic partner whose support through grants and mentorship has contributed to artist growth. Each of these women and allies brings a unique lens of service, innovation, and community uplift, demonstrating that meaningful impact takes many forms.”
One thing that will not change is the concert portion of the ceremony. From live bands to live dance performances, last year was a beautiful journey through the arts, something Washington promises will continue this year.
“Guests can expect an elevated, intimate, and immersive experience this year. The evening blends live performances from local talent with intentional moments of recognition, creating a dynamic and engaging flow throughout the program. From the moment attendees arrive, the event is designed to feel celebratory, connected, and reflective of the creative excellence within our community,” Washington said.
The 2026 The Blueprint Awards will be one for the books and a tradition that Book Black Women, Inc is excited to continue.
“I envision The Blueprint Awards becoming a signature cultural institution in Fayetteville and beyond. Long term, I see it growing into a regional and eventually national platform that honors cultural creativity across artistic disciplines while remaining grounded in community. The goal is to build something sustainable that continues to elevate and celebrate people while they are actively shaping the community,” Washington explained.
A project this big is a massive undertaking that takes months of planning, countless “thankless” hours, and support. Book Black Women, Inc has put all of these things into creating an event that truly captures the soul of the city through its honorees. A task like this can’t be accomplished alone.
Washington said, “I would love to acknowledge the past Blueprint Award recipients who served on this year’s selection committee: Ashanti Bennett, Michaela Penix, and Kenjuana McCray. I’m also grateful to this year’s recipients for accepting the honor and trusting us with their stories. Special thanks to The Creative Studio by Jae Renee and Randy Burkhead for bringing my creative vision for décor to life, to 1910 Wine Nest for sponsoring the event, and to Blissful Alchemists for providing the venue. I’m deeply appreciative of the Book Black Women team and the Fayetteville community for continuing to show up, support, and believe in the power of the arts.”
For more information to support or purchase tickets to the show, visit www.bookblackwomen.org.

For The Lovers -Sneaker Ball is an event presented by Budda’z Entertainment on Feb. 13 from 7:30 p.m. to midnight. The ball will be held at 226 The Warehouse, 226 Donaldson Street. The event is for adults 21 and over. The dress code is "grown and sexy” attire, and of course your favorite pair of kicks.
Table reservations are an option by texting 910-764-6229 for more information. Tickets are available on Eventbrite and start at $16.05. VIP tables are also available for four guests, with options of upstairs and downstairs seating. Guests will receive a complimentary champagne glass. VIP tickets start at $141.
Sneaker balls are a modern phenomenon that emerged primarily in the 2010s, blending formal high fashion or business attire with sneaker culture to create “glamour meets street experience."
“Budda’z Entertainment will host its first-ever ‘For the Lovers Sneaker Ball’ on Friday, Feb. 13,” said Camille Little with Budda’z Entertainment. “The Sneaker Ball invites guests to step out in their best sneakers paired with stylish suits and dresses, creating a unique blend of fashion, fun and flair. Attendees can enjoy drinks, light food, chocolate-covered strawberries and offerings varying by ticket type. Organizers are encouraging couples and singles alike to make it a night close to home. When was the last time you really went out on a date or enjoyed a night in the town? You do not have to travel to Atlanta, Charlotte, or DC—Fayetteville has its own Sneaker Ball right here.”
“Budda’z Entertainment is led by Maresha Kelly, Cortez Gage, and Camille Little. Buddha’z Entertainment recently hosted its first Steppers Ball on January 2, 2026. The event attracted more than two hundred attendees, featuring Line Dance and Saddle Clubs from across the region. Our aim is to create a memorable night leading into Valentine’s Day and to continue the mission of providing premier adult entertainment events in the Fayetteville area. Guests are encouraged to stay tuned for more events in the future,” Little said.
Love is in the air…and heat is on your feet. Singles, sneaker lovers, and everyone will enjoy the sneaker ball. Cold outside, fly inside. Tickets can be purchased at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/for-the-lovers-sneaker-ball-tickets-1979152786261?msockid=31e5d48674056de819ebdbaf75d56c96

February brings more than just chocolates and roses — it’s packed with ways to celebrate love, friendship, and everything in between. From Galentine’s gatherings with friends to romantic dinners, creative workshops, and singles mixers, local venues are offering something for every kind of Valentine. Whether you’re coupled up, flying solo, or celebrating your favorite people, here’s a roundup of Valentine’s and Galentine’s Day events happening around town.

Galentine’s Day Events
Feb. 4: Glass & Gra: Stained Glass Workshop
Paddy's Irish Public House at 6:30 p.m.
Get creative with friends during this hands-on stained glass workshop designed for a relaxed, social atmosphere. https://tinyurl.com/2druxses
Feb. 6: Love at First Bite: A Cake-Cute Galentine’s Party
Blissful Alchemists at 6 p.m.
Celebrate friendship with sweets, treats, and a festive Galentine’s vibe centered around cake and community. https://tinyurl.com/y52hapsw
Feb. 11: Whiskey & Watercolors
Paddy's Irish Public House at 6:30 p.m.
Sip whiskey while painting in this laid-back, creative night perfect for unwinding with friends. https://tinyurl.com/va8vu2pb
Feb. 12: Galentine’s Day Comedy Couch
Paddy's Irish Public House at 7:30 p.m.
Grab your besties and enjoy a night of laughs featuring live comedy in a cozy, couch-style setting. https://tinyurl.com/ywz73nv2
Feb. 13: Galentine’s Day Celebration: “Cupid Is Stupid”
Shop Cursive at 10 a.m.
An anti-Valentine’s celebration focused on fun, friendship, and ditching the romantic pressure. https://tinyurl.com/v3wbepyj
Feb. 13: Book Bedazzling: A Galentine’s Event
Fulfillity Books & More at 6 p.m.
Add sparkle to your favorite reads while enjoying a crafty night out with fellow book lovers. https://tinyurl.com/4bkrvbfd
Feb. 13: Galentine’s Paint Your Own Jean Party
Flamingo Holl'r at 7 p.m.
Customize denim with paint and flair during this unique, hands-on Galentine’s gathering. https://tinyurl.com/ysedh42f
Feb. 13: Galentine Craft Night
Baked with Grace at 6 p.m.
A relaxed craft night designed for friends to create, connect, and celebrate Galentine’s Day. https://tinyurl.com/bd644ypf
Feb. 13: 2nd Annual Galantines!
Stewart’s Tavern at 7 p.m.
Gather your best gals for a lively night featuring great drinks, food, and a welcoming atmosphere. https://tinyurl.com/bdfbrmj8
Feb. 14: Galentine’s Scrappy Heart
The Sewing Fix at 10:30 a.m.
Create a scrappy heart craft in this playful, creative workshop focused on friendship and fun. https://tinyurl.com/bder9569
Feb. 15: Galentine’s Day Celebration
The Triangle Rock Club at 10:30 a.m.
Keep the Galentine’s energy going with music, drinks, and good company. https://tinyurl.com/3cvcyupr
Feb. 15: Galentine’s Brunch
The Creekside Mill at 11 a.m.
Wrap up Galentine’s week with brunch, cocktails, and time well spent with friends. https://tinyurl.com/5n7dvzcn

Valentine’s Day Events
Feb. 4: Valentine’s Themed High Tea
Anchor Allie's at 1 p.m.
Enjoy an elegant high tea experience featuring Valentine ’s-inspired treats and décor. https://tinyurl.com/3pxmzwey

Feb. 6: Speed Dating
WOB Bar & Kitchen at 7 p.m.
Meet new people in a fast-paced, low-pressure setting designed to spark connections. https://tinyurl.com/46ketdda
Feb. 7: Clutch Annual Couple’s Valentine’s Dance
Freedom Biker Church at 5:30 p.m.
Dance the night away with your partner at this classic Valentine’s celebration. https://tinyurl.com/bdh7hpsm
Feb. 7: Valentine’s Day Couples Massage Workshop
FLD Studios at 11 a.m.
Learn massage techniques together in a relaxing, intimate workshop. https://tinyurl.com/ycxp3tt2
Feb. 7: Valentine’s Gala
The Life Center at 5 p.m.
Dress to impress for a glamorous night of dining, dancing, and romance. https://tinyurl.com/yz7jfs3w
Feb. 12–15: Valentine’s Week
James Creek Cider House at 7 p.m.
A multi-day celebration featuring specials, events, and themed activities throughout the week, including tastings, live music, and more. https://tinyurl.com/42n75c5z
Feb. 13: Bloody Valentine Misfit Market
Dirtbag Ales at 6 p.m.
Shop alternative vendors, art, and handmade goods with a dark Valentine’s twist. https://tinyurl.com/j39twvcf
Feb. 13: Sinner & Saints Bar Crawl
Various Locations at 6:30 p.m.
Hop between participating bars for themed drinks and Valentine’s fun. https://tinyurl.com/bdddp7rj
Feb. 13: Candlelight: Valentine’s Day Special
Cape Fear Botanical Garden at 6:30 p.m.
Experience romantic music performed in an intimate, candlelit setting. https://tinyurl.com/jtp9mdfy
Feb. 14: Casablanca
Cameo Art House Theatre at 7:30 p.m.
Enjoy a classic romantic film screening perfect for Valentine’s night. https://tinyurl.com/3yucy65t
Feb. 14: Valentine’s Day Brunch
The Sip Room at 1 p.m.
Multiple brunch options are available for couples looking to celebrate earlier in the day. https://tinyurl.com/6nmuhf9r
Feb. 14: Pitch A Friend: Valentined Edition
Dirtbag Ales at 7 p.m.
Friends pitch their single friends to the crowd in this fun, matchmaking-style event. https://tinyurl.com/wwmvr33v
Feb. 14: Valentine’s Dinner Experiences
Dewberry Cafe at 6 p.m.
Choose from prix fixe menus, dinner packages, and specialty Valentine’s dining options. https://tinyurl.com/yv4fj57j
Feb. 14: Emo Prom: Valentine’s Day Event
White Rabbit Pub at 9 p.m.
Relive your emo era with music, dancing, and themed attire. https://tinyurl.com/mt6974ye
Feb. 14: Valentine’s Day Carriage Rides
Downtown Fayetteville at Noon
Take a romantic carriage ride through the city for a classic Valentine’s experience. https://tinyurl.com/muh7tsce
Feb. 14: Pours & Boards: Candle & Charcuterie Workshop
Scented Wicks Candle Bar at 2 p.m.
Craft candles and charcuterie boards while enjoying drinks and conversation. https://tinyurl.com/bdh72nfx
Feb. 14: Rose Bouquet Sip & Paint
Grapes & Hops II at 3 p.m.
Paint a rose bouquet while sipping drinks in this guided Valentine’s workshop. https://tinyurl.com/3n523aab

This year, Mardi Gras is being celebrated on Tuesday, Feb. 17. Mardi Gras, often associated with vibrant parades, elaborate costumes, and lively celebrations, is a festival rooted in centuries of religious, cultural, and social tradition. While today it is widely recognized as a time of indulgence and revelry, Mardi Gras has deep historical meaning tied to the Christian calendar and the rhythms of medieval European life.
The term Mardi Gras is French for “Fat Tuesday,” referring to the final day of feasting before the beginning of Lent. Lent is the forty-day period of fasting and spiritual preparation leading up to Easter in the Christian tradition. Historically, Lent required abstinence from rich foods such as meat, eggs, butter, and dairy. Mardi Gras emerged as the last opportunity to consume these foods before the restrictions of Lent began on Ash Wednesday.
The origins of Mardi Gras can be traced back to ancient pagan celebrations marking the arrival of spring and fertility, including Roman festivals such as Saturnalia and Lupercalia. As Christianity spread across Europe, many of these seasonal customs were absorbed into the Christian liturgical calendar. By the Middle Ages, pre-Lenten celebrations had become widespread, particularly in Catholic regions of France, Italy, and Spain.
In medieval Europe, Mardi Gras was characterized by public feasts, masquerades, and carnivals. The word “carnival” itself is often thought to derive from the Latin “carne levare,” meaning “to remove meat,” reflecting the transition into Lent. Masks and costumes allowed participants to temporarily blur social boundaries, enabling peasants and nobles alike to engage in playful misrule. This inversion of social norms offered a brief release from the rigid hierarchies and hardships of everyday life.
Mardi Gras made its way to the Americas through European colonization. French settlers brought the tradition to North America in the late 17th century, particularly to Louisiana. New Orleans became the epicenter of Mardi Gras celebrations in the United States, developing unique customs such as organized parades, krewes, floats, and the throwing of beads and trinkets to spectators. Over time, African, Caribbean, and Creole influences further shaped the city’s distinctive Mardi Gras culture.
Symbolism plays a central role in Mardi Gras traditions. The festival’s signature colors—purple, green, and gold—were officially adopted in New Orleans in 1872. Purple represents justice, green symbolizes faith, and gold signifies power. King Cake, another iconic element, is a ring-shaped pastry decorated in these colors, often hiding a small figurine inside. The person who finds the figurine is traditionally tasked with hosting the next celebration.
At its core, Mardi Gras represents both excess and transition. It is a communal moment of joy, creativity, and indulgence before a period of reflection and restraint. While modern celebrations may emphasize spectacle and entertainment, the festival’s enduring power lies in its ability to connect people to centuries-old traditions that blend faith, culture, and human expression.
Mardi Gras is not merely a party, it is a living reminder of how history, ritual, and community come together in celebration.
If you are celebrating at home or heading off to another celebration, be sure to stop by one of these great shops for Mardi Gras themed bakes:

Superior Bakery at 2433 Hope Mills Rd.
They offer King Cakes that serve 20-25 people for $35.
910-424-4242
https://tinyurl.com/3fz3c5jt

Burney's Sweets & More of Fayetteville at 3319-B Raeford Rd.
Check out their Mardi Gras croissants or grab a King Cake complete with a plastic baby inside!
910-745-8975
https://tinyurl.com/3yr9ecs3

With concerns of groundwater contamination from "forever chemicals" like PFAS, Cumberland County is looking to create two new water and sewer districts in order to be eligible for grants and low-interest loans to fund engineering reports.
The proposed districts are the East Central Water and Sewer District, located between the Sampson County boundary and NC Highway 210, and the Cedar Creek Water and Sewer District. Both districts have been affected by “contaminated private wells linked to PFAS from the Fayetteville Works site, creating ongoing health and safety concerns for impacted property owners,” according to county officials.
At the Jan. 20 meeting of the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners, there were four speakers against the creation of the water districts. The board asked staff to host town hall sessions in both locations to give residents more information and allow them to share concerns with county staff.
Cumberland County Board of Commissioners' Chair Kirk deViere said that this was a step to see how the county could provide clean, safe, regulated drinking water, and there was no cost to residents at this time.
The official map and list of all parcels within the proposed East Central and Cedar Creek Water and Sewer Districts are available for inspection during normal business hours at the County Public Utilities Department, 698 Ann Street, Fayetteville, NC. Further information can also be found on the Public Utilities website at www.cumberlandcountync.gov/utility.
The Cumberland County Board of Commissioners also held its Strategic Planning Retreat on Jan. 23. Among the many topics were federal and budget updates, an overview of the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners, local impacts to federal cuts to SNAP and Medicaid, as well as updates to their strategic plan.
Key examples and focus areas from the strategic plan update included:
• Manna Church was selected as the operator of the unhoused support center to reduce homelessness. Completion is expected by April 2027.
• Implementing a digital dispatch system by June/July 2026 and establishing a joint community center (911)..
• Expanding existing landfill facilities, including the Ann Street Transfer Station, to be operational by fall 2026.
• Working to complete the UDO (Unified Development Ordinance) by early to mid- 2027 for planning, zoning and development improvements.
• Create an aquatic center and children’s museum development plan. The feasibility study will be completed by early March.
• Enhancing a Parks and Recreation Interlocal agreement to ensure all County communities have adequate accessibility to recreation facilities and services, with a framework of agreement to be presented to the board in February.
• Funding the entire FY2026 request to Cumberland County Schools in the adopted county budget.

City of Fayetteville
The Jan. 25 board meeting was cancelled due to the weather-related state of emergency. A public hearing for the “no parking” policy change for multi-use lanes is anticipated at the next board meeting. These lanes, separated from the roadway by a shoulder line, are intended for parking, cycling and pedestrian use.
The policy would allow residents to request “no parking” zones in multi-use lanes through a formal City process, which includes being reviewed and evaluated by City staff. Residents must obtain at least 70 percent approval from affected residents on each side of the street, regardless of which side the parking restriction is requested. Signatures can be collected from property owners, renters and tenants; however, a property owner's signature takes precedence in the event of a dispute.
In other news, the Fayetteville City Council will hold its Strategic Planning Retreat on Feb. 3-4.

National Civics Bee®
The National Civics Bee®, a nationwide initiative led by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, will allow middle school students (6th, 7th and 8th grades) to participate for the first time in North Carolina this year and Fayetteville, through the Greater Fayetteville Chamber, was chosen as a regional site.
For more information about the program, including educator resources and how to participate in the 2026 competition, visit www.faybiz.com/civicsbee.

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. With 91% of U.S. adults recognizing a Chamber of Commerce's impact on growth, membership ensures a strong voice shaping policies, driving economic success and building a thriving business community—together. To learn more, visit www.faybiz.com or email jmclaughlin@faybiz.com.

(Photo: The Market House gets a blanket of snow, Jan. 31. Photo courtesy of the City of Fayetteville, NC Facebook page)

Let us now praise the most famous man born on Feb. 4, 1819. Come and admire Norton 1, the first Emperor of the United States. Coincidentally, this column’s stain on world literature will appear in print on Feb. 4, 2026, only 207 years after his birth. Better late than never. Today, we salute this great but forgotten man. It is said that history repeats itself. But that would be wrong. Sometimes it does rhyme. There are certain resonances between the reign of Emperor Norton and our own current Fearless Leader, President Trump. Let’s see if you can find them.
The Emperor Norton 1, AKA Joshua Abraham Norton, declared himself Emperor of the United States in 1859. Unsurprisingly, Norton 1 was a resident of San Francisco at the time he became Emperor. San Francisco is famous for attracting colorful individuals. Norton also pronounced himself the Protector of Mexico. Hark the sound of history rhyming, as our current Fearless Leader has declared himself the Acting President of Venezuela, and soon to be the Protector of Greenland, Canada, the Army/Navy football game time slot, some lady’s Nobel Peace Prize, and Minneapolis. Delusions coupled with Executive Directives can be fun.
Only one other person born on Feb. 4 rivals the greatness of Emperor Norton. Our old pal, Ferdinand Magellan born in 1480. Magellan gets credit for being the first to sail around the world in 1522. Coincidentally, he sailed through the Strait of Magellan at the bottom of South America. The odds of Magellan sailing through a Strait named after him are astronomical, yet that is what he did. Kudos. Only Lou Gehrig contracting a disease with the same name as his comes close.
I digress, back to Emperor Norton. After declaring himself Emperor, he issued several fun Imperial Decrees (now known as Executive Orders) during his reign from 1859 to his death in 1880. He issued his declaration of Emperorship announcing to the Citizens of the Union: “At the request and desire of a large majority of the citizens of these United States, I declare and proclaim myself Emperor of the United States and direct the representatives of the different States to assemble in Musical Hall to make such alterations in the existing laws of the Union as may ameliorate the evils under which this country is laboring.” Norton didn’t need no stinking elections to be Emperor. He saw his duty, and he did it. He was restrained only by his own sense of morality.
One of Norton’s first Imperial Decrees was to abolish Congress. He issued a Decree to the US Army to arrest and remove all members of Congress. A little martial law is like eating peanuts. It’s hard to stop at just one Imperial Decree or Executive Order. Bet you can’t Decree just once. His next Decree abolished the United States, making America a temporary monarchy with him as Emperor. He directed the Catholic and Protestant churches to ordain him as Emperor. Sadly, neither the Army nor the churches followed his Decree. He abolished both the Republican and Democratic parties as he was “desirous of allaying the dissensions of party strife now existing within our realm.”
Norton was not going to suffer lightly any insults to his Capital city of San Francisco. He issued a Decree that anyone who “shall be heard to utter the abominable word ‘Frisco’ shall be deemed guilty of a High Misdemeanor and shall pay into the Imperial Treasury as penalty the sum of twenty-five dollars.”
Like our current President, Norton was not just a builder of dreams; he saw the need for infrastructure as well. Norton decreed that a bridge should be built between San Francisco and Oakland. Eventually, his architectural imagination came into fruition in the form of the Golden Gate and Bay Bridges. There remain current but unsuccessful efforts to rename the Bay Bridge the Emperor Norton Bridge.
Norton dressed as an Emperor. Military friends donated a uniform to him, which he decorated with various unearned medals, a beaver hat festooned with ostrich feathers, and a fancy walking stick that Bat Masterson would have envied. He roamed the streets, accepting free meals, having edicts printed in the San Francisco paper, and meeting with his subjects to discuss matters of the day. In 1867, he was arrested and underwent an involuntary commitment to determine if he was insane. His arrest caused a huge backlash from his subjects.
A local paper opined: “He has shed no blood, robbed no one, and despoiled no country; which is more than can be said of his fellows in that line (of politics).” The uproar was so great that the San Francisco police chief ordered him released and issued a public apology for the indignity heaped upon the Emperor. Showing regal mercy, Norton issued an Imperial Pardon to the policeman who arrested him.
Unfortunately, even benevolent Emperors cannot live forever. Norton 1 collapsed on a street corner and passed away before he could be taken to a hospital. Now, like Abraham Lincoln, he belongs to the ages.

(Illustration by Pitt Dickey)

For nearly five decades, the beverage industry in our region has been shaped, strengthened, and elevated by the steady hand and generous spirit of one remarkable man.
This month, it is both an honor and a privilege to celebrate the career and character of someone who has served our community with distinction and earned the admiration of everyone fortunate enough to work alongside him.
Healy Wholesale’s Joe Thigpen is a name that carries weight in Cumberland County—not because he ever sought recognition, but because he lived his career with humility, loyalty, and an unwavering commitment to doing “the right things, for the right reasons.”
It’s a philosophy that resonates deeply with us here at Up & Coming Weekly. From his early days delivering Pepsi Cola in 1977 to his final chapter with Healy Wholesale, Joe has embodied the values that make Fayetteville’s business community strong: honesty, integrity, hard work, and genuine care for people.
On page 14 of this issue, we share Joe’s extraordinary story—a story of perseverance through change, of friendships forged over decades, and of a man who turned competitors into colleagues and customers into lifelong friends.
It is also a story of grace, reflecting how Joe handled both success and setbacks with the same quiet dignity that has defined his entire professional life.
As Joe steps into retirement after 48 years of service, we invite you to join us in honoring his legacy. His impact reaches far beyond the daily duties of beverage sales. It lives in the relationships he built, the trust he earned, and the countless people he encouraged along the way.
On behalf of the entire Up & Coming Weekly team—and a grateful community—we extend our deepest appreciation to Joe Thigpen. May his next chapter be filled with the same joy, friendship, and purpose he has given to all of us. Our city, state, and nation would be a far better place if we had more people like Joe.
Thank you for reading Up & Coming Weekly.
—Bill Bowman, Publisher

Special Note: On Sunday, February 15, from noon to 6 p.m., Gates Four Country Club will host a retirement celebration in Joe’s honor featuring the band RIVERMIST.
The public, friends, and family are invited to this ticketed event. Proceeds support Kidsville News! and its mission to provide reading and educational resources to Cumberland County elementary schools. For ticket information, visit https://bit.ly/46sPvNF, scan the QR code, or call 910‑391‑3859.

(Photo: Joe Thigpen has been a staple of the Fayetteville community for 48 years in the beverage business. This February, he retires after a 48 year career. Photo courtesy of Bill Bowman)

While embarking on my ritual of talking back to the news recently, it struck me: many of the people we celebrate today didn’t do very well in the polls of their own time.
The truth is, we often mislabel conviction as extremism when it confronts our comfort. In their own day, figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Paul the Apostle were widely misunderstood. They were criticized, resisted—sometimes even feared. Decades or centuries later, we don’t call it disruption anymore. We call it legacy.
In an age when social media makes it effortless to spotlight the best or worst of any moment, we label people, groups, and movements just as easily. What’s harder—and far more necessary—is the quiet work of listening long enough to discover the truth. That gap between reaction and understanding is where discernment either lives—or dies.
Have you ever paused long enough to realize that a buzzword has become so common we’ve forgotten its meaning—or the impact that once gave it buzzword status? Prejudice is one of those words. It didn’t start as a slogan—it started as a description. At its core, prejudice simply means deciding before knowing.
I was in a meeting with policy makers recently, discussing some promising—but difficult—options. At one point, the guy next to me leaned over and whispered, “Your gift of being quiet is really shining on this stuff.”
It was meant as a mild jest, but I took it as a compliment. There were many options, twice as many opinions, and the best path forward could only be found if every perspective was understood first.
One day, we’ll all be gone. Our names forgotten by most—but what we embraced will remain tied to them for those who remember. That’s the idea of legacy: living today for the things that outlive us.
History has a way of judging noisy moments once quiet wisdom becomes visible. The people we honor most weren’t always the loudest voices in the room. More often, they were the ones who listened long enough to understand what truly mattered.
Discernment doesn’t demand immediate conclusions. It calls for patience, humility, and the courage to withhold judgment until truth has time to surface. And more often than not, that quiet work is what becomes legacy.

FTCC’s Respiratory Therapy Program is growing, and that means more chances for you to launch a rewarding, hands-on healthcare career that makes a real difference in people’s lives.
Respiratory therapists are the professionals that patients count on when breathing becomes difficult, whether in the emergency room, ICU, or newborn nursery. FTCC’s Respiratory Therapy Program is expanding to prepare more students to step into these vital roles right here in the Fayetteville area.
To open doors for more students, FTCC has doubled the number of Respiratory Therapy students admitted each year. The program now offers additional registration times and evening cohorts, giving busy adults and working students flexible options to pursue a healthcare career without putting life on hold.
“Our goal was to remove barriers without lowering expectations,” said Kecie Dunigan, Program Director for the FTCC Respiratory Therapy Program. Many students say this flexibility has been life-changing, turning a long-time dream of working in healthcare into a realistic, step-by-step plan.
“I always wanted to work in healthcare, but I didn’t think it was possible with my schedule,” said one current respiratory therapy student. “The expanded program made it realistic for me. Now I’m training for a career where I know I can make a difference.”
From day one, students in the program train in environments that look and feel like real hospitals. High-fidelity medical simulators allow you to practice responding to emergencies, caring for critically ill patients, and assisting newborns who are struggling to breathe, all in a safe, controlled setting before you ever work with live patients.
You will run through scenarios like managing ventilators and responding to respiratory failure, building confidence with each experience.
“Simulation gives students the chance to think critically under pressure,” explained Amanda Regan, FTCC’s Director of Clinical Education, noting that graduates enter clinical settings already practiced in staying calm and professional.
Graduates of FTCC’s Respiratory Therapy Program are already working in hospitals and healthcare facilities throughout the region. Local employers report that FTCC graduates arrive prepared, confident, and ready to contribute as key members of the healthcare team from day one.
“These graduates don’t just fill positions,” said Dunigan. “They become part of the healthcare teams that serve this community every day.” When you train at FTCC, you are preparing for a career that supports your neighbors, friends, and family right here at home.
Even as the program grows, it remains aligned with national credentialing standards and accreditation requirements, keeping quality at the center of every decision. FTCC’s expansion of the Respiratory Therapy Program reflects a strong commitment to Fayetteville’s workforce and to preparing professionals who are trained locally, stay locally, and serve with skill and compassion.
If you are looking for a meaningful, hands-on career where you can see the impact of your work every day, Respiratory Therapy may be the path for you. Visit FTCC, explore the website at www.faytechcc.edu, or contact an FTCC health professions admissions counselor at healthproadmissions@faytechcc.edu to learn more and get started.

As Super Bowl Sunday approaches, the excitement isn’t just on the field — it’s playing out across our community. From watch parties and themed specials to family-friendly events and late-night celebrations, local venues are pulling out all the stops to make game day unforgettable. Whether you’re a die-hard football fan, there for the commercials, or just in it for the snacks, here’s a roundup of Super Bowl events happening around town so you can find the perfect place to watch the big game.
All of these events are happening on Sunday, Feb. 8.

Big Game Party at North South Brewing Company, 304 Williams St. at 6 p.m.: Enjoy the game with drinks, football fun, and food from Cousins Maine Lobster. https://tinyurl.com/ye2xarms

Touchdowns & Taps: Super Bowl LX Party at Sol's Arcade & Taproom, 421 Maiden Ln. at noon: Don't miss anything on massive 130 & 75-inch screens. Also enjoy food, drinks, and good vibes. More surprises to come. https://tinyurl.com/2esbneab

Super Bowl Watch Party at Level 88, 5112 Yadkin Rd. at 6:30 p.m.: Enjoy great food & drink specials, including $1 wings and $3 domestic beer. https://tinyurl.com/nn26ydt9

Super Bowl Sunday Jam Session at 226 The Warehouse, 226 Donaldson at 4:30 p.m.: Enjoy a night of great music, good energy, and unforgettable football moments. https://tinyurl.com/3vmem8ns

Super Bowl Party at Hope Mills Shrine Club, 4461 Cameron Rd., Hope Mills at 6 p.m.: Bring friends, family, and a dish to share at this football-themed potluck. https://tinyurl.com/32passyp

Super Bowl Party! at Bunkers Bar and Grill, 125 Whispering Pines Dr., Spring Lake at noon: Whether you want to cheer on your favorite team or just watch the commercials, enjoy prizes, food specials, and more. https://tinyurl.com/n3u2x5na

Super Bowl Sunday at 1910 Wine Nest, 223 Flagstone Ln., Raeford at 5 p.m.: Enjoy food vendors and drink specials, including $6 mimosas with 10 different flavor options to choose from. Entry and parking are free for the night. https://tinyurl.com/n795abun

Super Bowl Party at Wana Navu, 500 N Reilly Rd.: Enjoy complimentary pizza and chips & salsa, as well as drink specials all night. https://tinyurl.com/2dty2kzj

#SUPERBOWL60 at Carolina Ale House, 161 Glensford Dr. at 6 p.m.: Get in on the in-store games and award-winning wings. Try your luck at the raffle for a chance to win a team jersey. https://tinyurl.com/y5hmksk4

Looking for a great place to enjoy the game without all the bells and whistles, and just some good food and drink? Here are some good options to consider:
• WOB Bar & Kitchen, 1944 Skibo Rd., 910-758-9782 https://worldofbeer.com/locations/fayetteville/
• Heckler Brewing Company, 5780 Ramsey St. Ste. 102, 910-339-5505 https://www.hecklerbeer.com/
• District House of Taps, 1240 Fort Bragg Rd., 910-491-6737 https://www.districthouseoftaps.com/
• Stewart's Tavern, 116 N Main St., Raeford, 910-479-1313 https://stewartstavern.com/
• Gaston Brewing Company, 124 Hay St., 910-748-0580 https://gastonbrewing.com/
• Kickback Jack's, 5081 Morganton Rd., 910-223-7676 https://www.kbjacks.com/fayetteville-nc
• Mac's Speed Shop, 482 N McPherson Church Rd., 910-354-2590 https://macspeedshop.com/
• Bubba's 33, 500 Westwood Shopping Center, 910-223-2601 https://tinyurl.com/473p7etj
• Mission BBQ, 1932 Skibo Rd., 910-491-9500 https://mission-bbq.com/
• Buffalo Wild Wings, 2097 Skibo Rd., 910-868-1561 https://tinyurl.com/4ynmcbjm
• Charlie Mike's Pub, 195 Starpoint Dr., 910-339-8005 https://www.facebook.com/charliemikesofficial/

If you are watching the big game at home, be sure to run by James Creek Cider House at 172 US Highway 1, N Business, Cameron. They will have Game Day Growlers and team flights for each team in the game until 7 p.m. https://www.facebook.com/jamescreekciderhouse

Want a new place to check out in town? Here is a roundup of some of the new restaurants, coffee spots, and food trucks that have recently opened in the area, along with a few familiar favorites reopening or expanding under new ownership.

MAI’S THAI EXPRESS
2368 Lillington Hwy., Spring Lake
910-745-8002
https://www.maisthaiexpress.com/
Owners of Mai’s Kitchen Thai Cuisine have expanded their offerings with the opening of Mai’s Thai Express in Spring Lake. The new concept focuses on quick, convenient service while still delivering the bold Thai flavors customers know from the original restaurant. Diners can expect popular Thai staples prepared for those on the go.

CARIBOU COFFEE
4808 Ramsey St., Suite 103
910-339-0326
A new Caribou Coffee location has officially opened on Ramsey Street, marked by a recent ribbon-cutting celebration. The popular coffee chain brings its signature beverages, cozy café vibe, and convenient drive-thru options to the neighborhood, giving residents another go-to spot for coffee and light bites.

ROOSTER’S DINER
3291 Cumberland Rd.
910-263-8028
Rooster’s Diner in Fayetteville has reopened under new ownership. While maintaining the classic diner feel that longtime patrons remember, the refreshed operation aims to reestablish the restaurant as a reliable stop for comfort food favorites and casual dining.

THE HABIT BURGER GRILL
2818 Town Center Dr.
910-207-5456
https://tinyurl.com/mrxe9f44
The Habit Burger Grill celebrated the opening of its second location. Known for chargrilled burgers, sandwiches, and shakes, the fast-casual chain adds another national dining option to the growing Hope Mills food scene.

PAZZO’S ITALIAN CUISINE FOOD TRUCK
774-722-5224
https://tinyurl.com/yw4zw3c5
Pazzo’s Italian Cuisine is now operating as a food truck throughout the Fayetteville area. The mobile kitchen serves Italian-inspired dishes, bringing classic flavors to different neighborhoods and events with a rotating schedule.

BARBARA ANN’S SOUTHERN FRIED CHICKEN
2800 Gillespie St. #134
https://barbaraanns.us/
Barbara Ann’s Southern Fried Chicken has opened a second location, expanding its reach in the community. The restaurant is renowned for its Southern comfort food menu, featuring fried chicken as its centerpiece, accompanied by traditional sides.

CUPBOP – KOREAN BBQ IN A BOWL
1017 Hefner Dr.
910-372-6175
https://www.cupbop.com/
Cupbop has opened a new location on Fort Bragg, offering Korean BBQ-inspired bowls. The fast-casual concept allows customers to customize their meals with rice, noodles, proteins, and sauces, blending bold flavors with quick service.

DUTCH BROS COFFEE
4808 Ramsey St., Suite 103
910-339-0326
Dutch Bros is set to take over the former Clutch Coffee location on Ramsey Street. The drive-thru-focused coffee chain is known for its extensive drink menu and energetic service style, adding another major coffee brand to the area.

NC FOOD COMMISSARY
813 Griffin St.
910-807-7850
https://www.ncfoodcommissary.com/
The NC Food Commissary has recently opened in Fayetteville, offering a shared commercial kitchen space designed to support local food entrepreneurs.
The facility provides 24/7 access to licensed kitchen areas for food trucks, caterers, bakers, and small food businesses, creating new opportunities for culinary startups and expanding concepts within the community.

Keep an eye out for…

BLAZIN HALAL FOOD
697 Country Club Dr.
A new Blazin Halal Food establishment is set to open in the previous Carter Bank and Trust location in Fayetteville.
The restaurant specializes in halal street food inspired by New York cuisine, featuring dishes like chopped cheese, rice topped with chicken, and rice with lamb. The anticipated launch date is June 2026.

RAISING CANE'S CHICKEN
1812 Skibo Rd.
The upcoming eatery will occupy the space previously occupied by Ruby Tuesday. Raising Cane's has earned national recognition for its straightforward, customer-beloved offerings, including chicken tenders, wavy fries, Texas toast, coleslaw, and their signature Cane's Sauce. The location plans to launch in Fall 2026.

W CO. EXPRESS
132 Person St.
The storefront is being prepared, but no official opening date has been announced. W Co. Express promises real chicken with bold flavors.
Stay tuned for updates.

We know you just took down the Christmas tree and swept up the confetti from New Year's, but believe it or not, Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. Valentine’s Day has a way of sneaking up on us, and suddenly the pressure is on to find the perfect place for that perfect night. Whether you’re planning a candlelit dinner, a cozy casual date, or something with a little small‑town charm, our local area has a surprisingly rich mix of options.
This guide brings together some of the most loved, most atmospheric, and most date‑worthy restaurants across Fayetteville, Hope Mills, Spring Lake, and Raeford — so you can focus on the fun part: enjoying the night with someone special.

Fayetteville

Luigi’s Italian Chophouse & Bar, 528 N McPherson Church Rd.
910-864-1810
If your idea of romance includes dim lighting, a glass of wine, and the aroma of garlic and herbs drifting through the air, Luigi’s is your spot. This long‑time local favorite blends Italian comfort with steakhouse sophistication. It’s warm, intimate, and perfect for couples who want a traditional Valentine’s experience. https://luigischophouse.com/

Chris’s Steak & Seafood House, 2620 Raeford Rd.
910-485-4242
For those who love a more upscale evening, Chris’s delivers. Think rich wood interiors, expertly prepared steaks, and a timeless atmosphere that feels made for special occasions. It’s the kind of place where you linger over dessert because the night feels too good to rush. https://www.fayettevillesteakhouse.com/

Scruboaks Contemporary American Pub, 5780 Ramsey St., Suite 108
910-884-3072
Fresh, thoughtful, and full of character, ScrubOaks Contemporary American Pub offers a cozy setting that works beautifully for a relaxed Valentine’s Day dinner.
The menu shifts with the seasons, highlighting quality ingredients and dishes made to order, giving every plate a just‑for‑you feel. Portions are generous, flavors are comforting, and the atmosphere strikes that easy balance between casual and special — perfect for couples who want a laid‑back but memorable night out. https://www.scruboakspub.com/

Antonella's Italian Ristorante, 300 Hay St.
910-486-0046
If you are looking for an elegant dining establishment located in the heart of Downtown Fayetteville, this is the place. Treat yourself and your special someone to classic Italian dishes, fresh seafood specialties, and even vegan options. Don't forget to complement your meal with a crafted signature cocktail. https://www.antonellasitalianristorante.com/

Spring Lake

La Vista Italian Restaurant, 1107 N. Bragg Blvd., Spring Lake
910-229-3588
Warm, comforting, and full of charm, La Vista Italian Restaurant brings classic Italian flavors to a cozy Spring Lake setting.
It’s a great pick for couples who want something delicious without the fuss of a formal night out. The dishes are hearty, the portions generous, and the atmosphere relaxed with just the right touch of romance. https://www.lavistaitaliannc.com/

Sawaddee Thai & Chinese Restaurant, 1006 N. Bragg Blvd., Spring Lake
910-436-5757
Vibrant and full of flavor, Sawaddee Thai & Chinese Restaurant offers a cozy spot for couples looking to enjoy something a little different on Valentine’s Day.
This family‑run favorite serves generous portions of comforting Thai classics, from fragrant curries to perfectly seasoned stir‑fried dishes. The atmosphere is relaxed yet inviting, making it easy to linger and enjoy the moment. And for a sweet finish, their homemade desserts add just the right touch of indulgence to a romantic meal. https://tinyurl.com/cr4a3b2e

Hope Mills

Sammio's Italian Restaurant, 3057 N. Main St., Hope Mills
910-424-4000
Comforting, classic, and easy to love, Sammio’s Italian Restaurant delivers a warm setting that suits a relaxed Valentine’s Day dinner. The menu is filled with familiar favorites, ranging from pasta and pizza to hearty chicken, steak, and seafood dishes, all served in generous portions that make sharing effortless.
The atmosphere is welcoming yet informal, providing couples with a cozy space to unwind and enjoy a satisfying meal together. https://www.sammiositalianrestaurant.com/

Raeford

The Creekside Mill, 1825 Johnson Mill Rd., Raeford
910-878-2376
Rustic, inviting, and beloved by locals, The Creekside Mill is a great pick for couples who want a casual but memorable night out. The menu is hearty, the service friendly, and the vibe just right for a low‑key Valentine’s dinner. .https://thecreeksidemill.com/

No matter what kind of Valentine’s Day you’re planning — elegant, cozy, adventurous, or delightfully simple — you will find a restaurant that fits the moment. From Fayetteville’s romantic classics to Raeford’s small‑town gems, you’re never far from a memorable meal.

Resources can make or break an artist’s success. Whether it’s funding, manpower, or spaces to operate in, artists and arts organizations are often dependent on resources like donations, grants, volunteers and community gathering spaces that they can use for free or at discounted rates.
The Arts Council of Fayetteville and Cumberland County is expanding its operations, intent on bridging the gap between local arts organizations and the resources they desperately need.
214 Burgess Street is now home to ArtsXL, a multi-use venue refurbished by the Arts Council that houses office space, conference rooms, and rehearsal space. Some local arts organizations, such as Cumberland Choral Arts, have already settled into office space there.
“This space is going to help elevate our community and reach people who otherwise have not been served,” shared Robert Pinson, president and CEO of the Arts Council.
According to Pinson, the Arts Council is primarily a funds-granting agency that also provides program support. They seek to help increase the capacity of arts organizations in town, grow cultural tourism, operate a robust grant program, and help fund other arts organizations.
Organizations they help fund include Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra, Cape Fear Regional Theatre, Gilbert Theater, and more. The Arts Council itself has received several grants from the National Endowment for the Arts, a privilege that Pinson says “not only speaks to our credibility, but the fact that others are seeing value in what we’re adding.”
Local arts organizations can use space at ArtsXL for free with the payment of a security deposit.
“If it’s a cultural arts-based sort of activity, they can use it,” said Pinson. “The goal is to build up these organizations and make them stronger, and then at the same time, make our community stronger. So the real positive impact is providing people in the community the opportunity to grow and expand.”
Pinson shared stories of how ArtsXL is already changing local arts organizations. He said Cumberland Choral Arts previously stored files and music in their president's garage due to a lack of office space.
“Now we’re able to give them a place to store all that,” he said.
The performing arts group Sweet Tea Shakespeare recently held performances on three consecutive nights because the space they were using had a seating capacity of 25. They now have a performance scheduled at ArtsXL, where there’s a seating capacity of 125-150.
“In one performance, they can actually sell more tickets and reach a larger audience than they did in that one weekend,” explained Pinson. “Hopefully that's going to do a lot of things—expand their network, expand their revenue, make them a stronger organization, and allow them to put on even more and exciting sorts of performances.”
“It's been cool to see, from the time that we first acquired the building, to where it is now, how some organizations are starting to build a space,” explained Miles McKeller-Smith, director of public relations. “The Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra had an event there right before holiday break, and we’re just continuing to see how this can grow these local organizations when space might have been a ceiling for them.”
214 Burgess Street is owned by the Fayetteville Independent Light Infantry, with whom the Arts Council has signed a 10-year lease.
The building’s history has a unique connection to the Arts Council’s main operating space at 301 Hay Street. 301 Hay Street was originally built as Fayetteville’s Post Office. Over the years, it functioned as a central hub for the city, with people coming and going frequently. It’s still fondly called Fayetteville’s “living room” by some.
Pinson explained that when the 301 Hay Street Post Office was under construction, “The Fayetteville Independent Light infantry actually had a building back where Greg's Pottery is right now (122 Maxwell Street), and as part of the building the post office, they kind of bumped the Independent Light Infantry out of their spot, and the Infantry actually moved over and built these buildings at 214 Burgess Street.”
What started as a drill hall is now home to another variety of drills—instead of weapons handling, musical instruments are the tools of choice, instead of military formations, theater choreography.
“The Fayetteville Independent Light Infantry is very kind in allowing us to rent the space at a very, very reasonable rate so that we can offer this to the community,” said Pinson.
The building’s location makes it the perfect addition to a night on the town, observed McKeller-Smith.
“It’s smack dab in the middle of downtown Fayetteville. You have restaurants and other activities that you can do to kind of complete a night, and there is so much to do within walking distance.”
Pinson envisions a wide variety of events in the space as awareness grows.
He hopes the space is a launching point for individual artists and arts organizations, comparing its purpose to job searching for the first time.
“It’s like when you are looking for your first job, and you're told, ‘Come back when you get some experience,’ and you think, ‘How am I ever going to get experience unless someone takes a chance on me?’ That’s what this building is going to provide: a place for people to get up in front of an audience and try it. Maybe they succeed, maybe they fail, but you’re giving them the opportunity and opportunity leads to open doors.”
Attend ArtsXL’s grand opening on Feb. 5 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.

Gilbert Theater, the theater with a pulse, is living up to its reputation and community roots with its latest production, The Revolutionists by Laura Gunderson. A fictional tale set in the very real French Revolution, the play follows four women as they make their mark and push to change their world for the better. The show runs from Jan. 30 to Feb. 15, Friday- Sunday. Tickets can be purchased at the box office located at 116 Green Street or online at https://ci.ovationtix.com/36002/production/1236837. General admission tickets start at $25.The Gilbert offers discounts for seniors, military and educators.
The Gilbert Theater, since its inception, has never shied away from productions that question the status quo or dive headfirst into political, social and economic themes. As a true community theater, the Gilbert has welcomed them with open arms, daring to explore these often uncomfortable themes on stage. While The Revolutionists is set during the French Revolution, its themes of feminism, revolution (and its cost), speaking out versus staying silent, art versus action, and sisterhood have never been as relevant in the world that we live in, as right now.
This is something the all-woman cast is aware of, and one of the biggest reasons that many of them auditioned for this particular show. The women cast in this production come from different ethnic, socioeconomic and educational backgrounds, much like the women they will portray on stage.
Playing playwright, Olympe de Gouge, is the highly talented Sara Kennedy. This marks her first performance on stage since taking a 16-year sabbatical to focus on marriage, motherhood, and her career as a North Carolina educator. Jennifer Newman is a Gilbert veteran, whose most recent role on the stage was as Sally Bowles in Cabaret. Newman is taking on the role of the often misquoted, fantastical, and eventually beheaded French royal, Marie Antoinette.
Gracing the stage for her premier role at the Gilbert is the lovely Aneta T. Lee. Hailing from the metro-Atlanta area, the well-traveled Lee is jumping feet first with excitement into her role as the Haitian rebel, Marianne Angelle. Rounding out the cast is the versatile Sydney Dukic as assassin Charlotte Corday.
Leading this cast of extraordinary women is Claudia Warga-Dean, a theater regular and educator. Artistic Director Matt Lamb was intentional about his choice for the production to be female-run, ensuring the integrity of the story being told. The Revolutionists is a comedy, but it's also a warning, a bat-signal of sorts, to the dangers of an exclusive society that finds no room for diversity and basic human rights, especially for women’s rights.
“This play can be hard to put [into] words. It’s a feminist comedy. And it starts with Olympe de Gouges, she’s the playwright during the French Revolution. She is an actual person. She wrote the Declaration of the Rights of Women, and she’s a female citizen, and she’s fighting for equality, and there’s so much history there. She ends up getting beheaded, and the play starts right before she’s about to get beheaded,” Warga-Dean explained.
“Three historical figures show up, two that are actual historical figures, and one that is a representation of many different women. They all come to this space with different ideas of what the revolution should be or how they should approach it. And it’s also a play about sisterhood and coming together and being there for each other, even when it’s hard and heartbreaking, and even in the face of violence and oppression. It’s meta theater. We acknowledge we’re in a show, so we talk to the audience, and we look at the sound booth and give cues. It’s a comedy with guillotines, believe it or not. It also explores the question, who is art for? Is it for everybody? Is it only really being created for one group of people? Could it be both?”
The themes, while lightened with humor and comedy, are heavy when the outside world seems reflective of what is supposed to be fiction played out on stage. Every cast member is fully aware of what this play means and how important it is to speak up and be just as loud as the opposition.
“I don’t think this play will ever not be relevant. I hope one day that it is because this is really encapsulating the feminist movement that happened in the 1700s and again in the 1800s and again in the 1900s, and again now,” said Newman. “Who are we, and why are we not on the same playing field? This show really is important because women now more than ever need to come together as a team, amongst all backgrounds. Everybody needs to come together and fight for women, whoever you are. There’s power in that today. There’s power in that always.”
“Each day I wake up, take a look at the news, and take a look at each and every incident that is happening in our country, today and in our global world. Because this is not just about what’s happening in the United States, it’s affecting the global world, which is exactly what happened during the French Revolution. We are literally going through the exact same thing right now,” said Lee.
“When will women ask ourselves, ‘what has this revolution given us?’ And if the answer is nothing, when will we take it for ourselves? That is the line that I get to say, as I’m presenting to the National Assembly,” said Kennedy. “I’m [.....] about what’s going on. It’s not okay, and it hurts me deep in my soul. I’m doing this show. It makes me angry because have we not earned anything? We have women who are being censored for what they are saying, and things like that are not ok. None of this is okay.”
“I teach history. I go in, I go home, and I see the news, and then I have to go in, and I have to teach our kids how to stand up for what [they] believe in. Fight for what is right, be the change. And it’s so important now because we are so divided,” said Dukic.”
Each of these women sees herself in her character and their plight, making this production not just relevant but possibly art that will speak loudly.
For more information about the Gilbert Theater, visit online at https://www.gilberttheater.com/ 

(Photo: The four women of The Revolutionists' cast from left to right: Aneta T. Lee (Marianne Angelle), Jennifer Newman (Marie Antoinette), Sara Kennedy (Olympe de Gouge) and Sydney Dukic (Charlotte Corday). Photo courtesy of The Gilbert Theater)

A new luxury event company is making its official debut in Fayetteville with the launch of Legacy and Silk Events, a business built on more than two decades of experience producing high-end celebrations for prominent clients across the country.
The company will introduce itself to the community with its signature launch event, The Sweethearts Dinner, scheduled for Feb. 14, at the Crown Expo Center at 7 p.m. at 1960 Coliseum Dr. Tickets are now available through the company website, legacyandsilk.com. A limited discount is being offered using the unlock code SWEETHEART. The evening will be full of dancing, dinner and live music. Tickets start at $119.
Legacy and Silk Events is a luxury event curation company centered on storytelling, culture and meaningful connection. The company focuses on designing elevated experiences that blend elegance with warmth while remaining accessible to the local community.
The president of Legacy and Silk Events, Dion Clark, said the decision to establish the company in Fayetteville was intentional. She noted that the city is home to families, military couples and individuals who value upscale experiences but often must travel elsewhere to enjoy them.
She said the goal of the company is to bring refined and thoughtfully designed events to Fayetteville while preserving a sense of intimacy and inclusion. The Sweethearts Dinner reflects that vision.
The event is designed to celebrate love in many forms rather than focusing exclusively on romantic relationships. Attendees may include couples, mothers and daughters, close friends and anyone seeking a meaningful shared experience.
Guests can expect an elegant atmosphere featuring chef-inspired dining, live entertainment and an evening of dancing. Organizers describe the setting as refined yet inviting, offering a balance between sophistication and comfort.
Clark said the intention behind the evening is to create an environment where guests feel present, relaxed and connected to one another.
She said the event was created to encourage people to slow down, step away from daily responsibilities and focus on celebrating the people who matter most in their lives.
Organizers hope The Sweethearts Dinner will become a recurring tradition in Fayetteville.
Clark said the long-term goal is to establish a signature annual event that residents look forward to each year, one that fosters connection and reinforces the importance of shared experiences.
Legacy and Silk Events draws on an extensive background in luxury event production. Over the past two decades, leadership within the company have contributed to private and large-scale celebrations for high-profile individuals, including business leaders, entertainers and public officials. While the company’s experience includes elite clientele, its Fayetteville events are designed to feel welcoming rather than exclusive.
Meaningful events should not feel distant or unattainable, said Clark. She emphasized that elegance can coexist with approachability and that high-quality experiences should be available within the local community. She said her inspiration for entering the events industry stems from a belief in the emotional power of gatherings.
Events create moments people anticipate, remember and associate with significant points in their lives. From milestone celebrations to intimate dinners, well-designed experiences can strengthen relationships and elevate the spirit.
Clark communicated that every detail contributes to that outcome, including menu selections, décor, lighting and music. When combined intentionally, those elements help shape the emotional tone of the evening and support the overall story being told.
The Sweethearts Dinner is intended to serve as more than entertainment. Organizers describe it as a celebration of connection, presence and appreciation. The overall hope for the event is that guests leave feeling valued, inspired and emotionally fulfilled.
Organizers said the response reflects a desire for opportunities to gather in beautiful spaces, dress with intention and participate in events that feel meaningful rather than routine.
Legacy and Silk Events plans to expand its offerings following the February debut. Future programming will continue to emphasize culture, celebration and storytelling while maintaining a consistent standard of elegance and thoughtful design. With its official launch underway, the company aims to contribute to Fayetteville’s evolving social landscape by creating experiences that bring people together through intention, atmosphere and shared memory.
Tickets for The Sweethearts Dinner remain available through legacyandsilk.com, with limited seating expected. The event marks the beginning of Legacy and Silk Events’ commitment to curating experiences designed to endure long after the evening concludes.

A chance encounter in a department store, a scuffle, and the eventual realization that they’re all on the same team despite the havoc of midlife hormones—that’s Menopause the Musical. The four main characters go on to become best friends after their rocky introduction, sharing the highs, lows, joys and sorrows of changing bodies.
For nearly 25 years, women around the world have found just how universal their experiences with hot flashes, mood swings, and memory lapses are. Hysterical laughter and heartfelt reminders to find joy in every season have helped audience members create bonds and memories surrounding menopause that, early in the musical’s life, were considered taboo.
Now, Menopause the Musical 2: Cruising Through ‘The Change’ brings the original characters back together five years after their chance encounter in the department store. They set sail on a cruise for a journey of self-discovery backed by new tunes and new opportunities.
“I really do think that Jeanie Linders changed the world,” said Director and Producer Seth Greenleaf of the original show’s creator. “When she wrote Menopause the Musical, menopause was not a topic of public consumption at all.”
Greenleaf says they’ve performed for audiences of 500-1500 across the world for the last 25 years, normalizing conversations surrounding menopause.
“Women are not ashamed anymore,” he shared, “I think that’s what Menopause the Musical did more powerfully than anything else.”
The show gave women permission to laugh, talk and form community around their symptoms, a luxury that not all generations of women experienced.
“Suddenly, a thousand women in a room are laughing and they realize ‘Oh my God, I’m not unique,’” said Greenleaf. In the early days of the show, he said, “You could see people’s faces, and it was the first time they realized that everyone was having the same symptoms.”
While the show hasn’t focused on medical or diagnostic themes, Greenleaf says it creates a sense of community surrounding the “emotional approach” of navigating menopause. “Menopause is not the end, it’s also a beginning,” he described. “Often after menopause, we see a resurgence of personal curiosity and women considering what their goals and dreams are.”
Stacey Harris, cast member and choreography supervisor, says she’s seen changes in social commentary surrounding menopause.
“The culture is shifting; we have a lot of female celebrities who are really being very vocal about their struggles.”
She says the show celebrates changes and transitions, teaching women that menopause is natural and “nothing to be ashamed about or embarrassed about.”
“It’s a super fun show, and I’m so proud to be a part of it,” she gushed.
She plays the character Soap Star and has been with Menopause the Musical 2 since its U.S. premiere. Auditioning for the role was natural given Harris’s career in the entertainment industry.
“I really relate to Soap Star when she was younger because she used to be the ingénue, and now the business sees her differently and it’s a different approach in terms of trying to get jobs and recognizing that her body, her life and her career are changing,” Harris shared. “As a woman in show business, I could definitely relate to those messages.”
As Menopause the Musical 2 follows the original characters—Earth Mother, Professional Woman, Soap Star, and Iowa Housewife—audience members watch the characters’ friendships deepen. Sailing through the tropics on a cruise provides ample opportunity for hot flash catastrophes and karaoke nights featuring parodies of 70s, 80s and 90s hits. During one parody, the cruise ship’s AC cuts out, and cast members sing “AC Inferno,” a humorous take on The Trammps Disco Inferno.
Audience members often relate strongly to one character over others. While Harris believes there’s something relatable about each character, when talking with audience members, she finds they “love to identify which character they are.” But by far, the most common remark she receives is “we had so much fun.”
Though she’s New York City-based, Harris is excited to be back in the area.
“I’m actually from Raleigh, North Carolina, so I have a Carolina background,” she explained. “My mom will actually be at the Fayetteville show watching me for the 10th time.”
Harris says that men enjoy the show as well.
“A lot of people come with their sisters, gal group, moms, husbands and boyfriends. They have fun too. and it helps them understand what their loved ones are going through.”
Through the heavy realities of menopause, the hysterical humor of four on-stage characters, and toe-tapping music, Harris says one theme shines through: “The power of a woman. You’re still viable, you’re still important, even as we get older.”
Watch Menopause the Musical 2 at the Crown Theater, 1960 Coliseum Dr., on Sunday, Feb. 22, at 3 p.m. For tickets, visit https://www.crowncomplexnc.com/events/detail/menopause-the-musical-2 or call the box office at 910-438-4100. Tickets start at $48.

(Photo:Menopause The Musical 2: Cruising Through ‘The Change’® Myrtle Beach 2024 Cast: Valerie Fagan, Adrianne Hick, Kimberly Ann Harris, and Teri Adams. Photo by Scott Smallin)