If you look at North Carolina’s state flag, you’ll see two dates: May 20, 1775 and April 12, 1776. Each signifies a moment when North Carolinians played a key role in the emerging American Revolution. Each strengthens the claim that our state was, in this context, “First in Freedom.”
On the former date, the leaders of Mecklenburg County either created a new county government or formally declared independence from Britain (depending on which account you accept). On the latter date, the North Carolina Provincial Congress, meeting in Halifax, instructed their delegates to the Continental Congress in Philadelphia to vote for independence.
While very important, neither the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence nor the Halifax Resolves constitutes the first formal act by North Carolinians against British tyranny. That distinction belongs to the Rowan County Committee of Safety. Angered by Parliament’s high-handed legislation and the conduct of royal governors and garrisons in Boston and other American cities, some two dozen Rowan leaders met in Salisbury on August 8, 1774, to draft a response.
Their handiwork, issued 250 years ago, is called the Rowan Resolves. While proclaiming their continuing loyalty to King George III, the signers condemned Parliament for enacting what they considered to be illegal levies and regulations.
“The right to impose taxes or duties, to be paid by the inhabitants within this Province, for any purpose whatsoever, is peculiar and essential to the General Assembly, in whom the legislative authority of the colony is vested,” the Rowan leaders wrote. “Every attempt to impose such taxes or duties by any other authority is an arbitrary exertion of power, and an infringement of the constitutional rights and liberties of the colony.”
They were certainly talking about the reviled tax on tea — the target of the protest, staged eight months earlier, that came to be called the Boston Tea Party. But they were making a broader point. To tax Americans without allowing them representation in Parliament was “an act of power without right.” It was a dangerous precedent.
The leaders named three delegates to represent Salisbury and Rowan County, urging other communities to do the same. They further suggested that all North Carolina delegates convene later in the month to discuss the crisis and propose a Continental Congress to “agree upon a firm and indissoluble union and association for preserving, by the best and most proper means, their common rights and liberties.”
Interestingly, the Rowan Resolves also stated that “the African slave trade is injurious to this colony, obstructs the population of it by free men, prevents manufacturers and other useful immigrants from Europe from settling among us, and occasions an annual increase of the balance of trade against the colonies.”
While hardly a full-throated condemnation of chattel slavery, this section does reflect the stirrings of anti-slavery sentiment on the frontier — and mirrors the language Thomas Jefferson tried to insert in the American Declaration of Independence
two years later.
Among the members of the Rowan Committee of Safety were Matthew Locke and William Lee Davidson. A former treasury commissioner for North Carolina, Locke would later sign the Halifax Resolves and serve as a brigadier general during the subsequent Revolutionary War. After many years in the state legislature, Matthew Locke served three terms in the U.S. House of Representatives.
As for William Lee Davidson, he would also serve in the war as a lieutenant colonel in the Continental Line and brigadier general of the Salisbury District militia. On February 1, 1781, the army of General Charles Cornwallis began to cross the Catawba River at Cowan’s Ford, just north of Charlotte, in pursuit of the main American army under General Nathaniel Greene. With 800 Patriots, Davidson attacked the British — delaying their crossing, but at the cost of his own life. Decades later, the founders of a nearby Presbyterian college named it in Davidson’s honor.
Such was the mettle of our Founders. They backed their inspiring words with courageous deeds. So should we all.

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

Once upon a time, long, long, ago, in a galaxy far, far away, there was a magnificent Sears store on Hay Street. It was the anchor of downtown Fayetteville's business district. I first encountered the many wonders of Sears in the late 1950s.
As seen in the photograph above this column, the most amazing thing there was the giant mural of 82nd Airborne paratroopers jumping into the friendly skies at Fort Bragg.
The mural was proudly displayed on the wall above the steps from the second floor to the shoe department on the first floor. Take a moment to marvel at the uniforms and the people in the picture. It is classic Fort Bragg.
As best I can tell, credit for the photograph goes to the late Bill Belch who was a long time Fayetteville photographer. If you know otherwise, let me know, and credit will be given to whom credit is due.
Like the Overlook Hotel in "The Shining," a lot of things happened in Sears and not all of them were good. At the bottom of the stairway lay the shoe department where I got my first pairs of PF Flyers, Hushpuppies, and Penny loafers. I was a fashion plate in elementary school.
Back in the dark ages of the 1950s and '60s, Hay Street had several first-run movie theaters- the Miracle, the Carolina, and the Colony. The Broadway theater was where angels feared to tread. It had excessively sticky floors and second-run flicks of dubious extraction.
As kids, we were frequently dropped off downtown on Saturday mornings to watch westerns and horror movies. After the movies, we usually went across the street to Sears to x-ray our feet in the shoe department. After considerable foot radiation, it's a minor miracle I still have feet.
The coolest thing in the shoe department was the fluoroscope machine used to fit your shoes to your feet. When trying on shoes, you stuck your feet into the machine, wiggled your toes, and admired the bones in your feet.
Mr. Google reports these machines were sold under the brand names X-Ray Shoe Fitter, or Foot-o-Scope. They were sold in the US from the 1920s until the 1970s when they were taken off the market due to some Sorehead's concerns about radiating children's feet.
Although there could be some adverse medical issues from multiple foot X-rays, the good news was that I could read comic books under my bedspread at night with the light emitting from my metatarsals.
Fortunately for Sears the statute of limitations has run on injury claims for irradiated feet.
The shoe department also had White and Colored drinking fountains. The White fountain was fancy with chilled water and the Colored water fountain was bare bones with room temperature water.
As kids, we did not know any better and assumed this was the way things were everywhere. Does a fish realize it is in water? Who knows? Ask the fish.
On a happier note, the Shoe Department also had a pony ride and a rocket ship ride which for a dime would take little buckaroos and buckarettes out to the Wild West and outer space.
The land at the top of the Sears stairs was equally enchanting. The second floor was home to the record section and appliances. On Saturdays, Sears' manager Wilbur Smith would cook a ham on a rotisserie grill which filled the upstairs with the beautiful smell of bacon.
Very little could compare with the joys of x-raying your feet, riding a rocket ship, then going upstairs to smell the bacon, while you flipped through the record bins looking for the latest Elvis records.
It didn't get much better than this.
What have we learned today? Once again, nothing of any practical use. But I can still smell the aroma of cooking ham. Take a sniff, you might too. As Elvis would say: "Thank ya verra much."

(Photo: Paratroopers jump at Fort Bragg in this photo Pitt Dickey reckons was photographed by Bill Belch, a long time photographer in the Fayetteville area. The photograph was on display at the Sears in downtown.)

Have you decided how you are going to vote in the upcoming election?
Even if you have decided between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, there is more to do before you can do your duty on Election Day.
There are more offices that will need your vote: secretary of state, state auditor, state treasurer, superintendent of public instruction, attorney general, agriculture commissioner, labor commissioner, insurance commissioner, state senator, state representative, N.C. supreme court justice, N.C. court of appeals judge, superior court judge, district court judge, district attorney, county commissioner, clerk of superior court, and register of deeds, and, in addition to U.S. president and vice president.
You have lots of choices to make and there are deadlines for making some of them.
Below is a list of some of the important dates and deadlines that apply:
Sept. 6: County boards of elections begin mailing absentee ballots to eligible voters who submitted an absentee ballot request form.
Oct. 11: Voter registration deadline (5 p.m.).
Oct. 17: In-person early voting begins; same-day registration available.
Oct. 29: Absentee ballot request deadline (5 p.m.).
Nov. 2: In-person early voting ends (3 p.m.).
Nov. 5: General election.
Nov. 5: Absentee ballot return deadline (7:30 p.m.).
If the presidential election, or one of the others, is very, very important to you, you may want to do more than vote. In one recent election, I was persuaded to knock on doors of people likely to vote for my preferred candidate—if they voted at all. I spent an afternoon at the task.
My candidate lost. I was disappointed but was then and am still am glad I made the effort. If I had done nothing, I would have blamed myself for the loss.
If you feel this year as strongly as I did that year, here are some things you might do to help your candidate succeed.
1. Give some hard-earned dollars to your candidate. The money is important, but the act of giving is a seal of support, like a small Sunday morning church gift. It is more than just the money.
2. Make a connection with the candidate and introduce him or her to people you know. Invite a candidate to visit your home. Invite neighbors and encourage the candidate to explain his or her views.
3. Attend events sponsored by other candidates and maybe wear your candidate’s button alongside that of the honoree.
4. Have your own big neighborhood party to honor your candidate.
Whatever your neighbors’ views, they will appreciate the opportunity to get to know people who live nearby and learn about the candidate.
5. Create a postcard and make copies to send to your friends and others. Address, stamp them, and send them off.
Write something personal like “this candidate is a friend of mine and a trustworthy person who thoughtfully considers the issues facing us. I would appreciate your consideration and especially your vote on election day.” Add a personal note, if you can, to remind the recipient of the card how you might be connected to him or her.
5. Sign up with a candidate’s organization to knock on doors on election day to remind people to vote.
6. Stand in line to greet voters at the polls. Somebody you know will honor your advice.
7. Especially if your candidate loses, it will be important to know that you did not give up and that you worked hard all the way to the end. Of course, it will be even better if your candidate wins a close election because of your efforts.
8. Win or lose, your activity and participation on Election Day and your participation marks you as an American citizen who does his or her job.

Plant lovers rejoice! The Fayetteville Plant Sale and Swap is just around the corner. Plant lovers around the area will congregate at Smith Recreation Center on 1520 Slater Ave. on Saturday, Aug. 10 from noon to 3 p.m. Attendees can sell and swap not just plants but knowledge, tips, and tricks. Admission is free and vendor tables are available the day of the event. The vendor fee is $10 and comes with up to 3 6x4 tables and 3 to 5 chairs. There is no vendor registration required. For those wishing to purchase a vending space, doors open at 11 a.m. for vendor setup. Doors open to the general public at noon. This is a can't-miss event for those looking to score their first or hundredth plant. There will also be a free plant table, with various donations from vendors for those who would love to start their plant family but may not be able to purchase plants. And of course, attendees can bring plants to swap with other plant owners and vendors. For those planning on buying plants, vendors will be accepting most forms of payment, cash, card, or payment app.
An event like this has to come from love and that’s exactly what one of the event organizers, Silvia Ramon does. She loves plants. She started her journey in 2019 after a few life changes. She got pregnant with her son and quit her job. With nothing but time and a tiny person growing in her belly, Ramon turned to plants.
“I was bored and needed something to do and that’s when I started visiting garden centers and nurseries in Raleigh. I started buying a lot of plants and now am currently growing some of the most exotic plants on planet earth. It makes me so happy to be able to bring them locally to other individuals that also love plants. The smile I bring to locals is priceless! Seeing others happy when they find their favorite plant means everything to me!”
This is not the first Fayetteville Plant Swap and Sale. What started as a private plant and gardening group event has grown to include the whole community.
“The event is every three months during the year. The event started before I started attending by other private groups! My first attendance was 2023 last summer,” Ramon said.
There is a much bigger picture for Ramon and her fellow organizers, who have very impressive plans for community plant lovers saying, “Creating a local market for our community has always been exciting to show what we grow from home and share it with the public. We have a team that organizes the event! The event coordinator takes care of the building and I voluntarily make the event announcements all over the web and social media.”
They are also in the process of developing a website that will serve as a marketplace, Plantgurususa.com. When asked what type of vendors are welcome, Ramone said, “... Anyone that grows indoor plants and artisans that make plant related items are always welcome.”
Although Ramon is a driving force behind this event, she is not the only plant lover putting their time and energy into creating these events for the community.
“The event is hosted by Hannah Soriano a Fayetteville resident and event coordinator and plant lover like me.”
Ramon also credits the members of these 2 Facebook private plant groups in the Fayetteville area:
Plant Purge (Fayetteville & Surrounding areas)
Fayetteville NC Plant swap
Raleigh Plant People
“I highly recommend joining these groups to discover the unbelievably rare plant collection in our home state of North Carolina,” she said.
And about the plant swap, “As soon as the public walks in they can ask any vendors questions about how to grow and different types of species. We have a very friendly environment and kid-friendly,” Ramone said.

Throughout the downtown area, sculptures sprout up overnight, turning our community into a public art gallery. The Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County is responsible for these sculptures.
"Public art is art created for general public consumption. Public art is often commissioned by public institutions for a specific site. Public art must always be, by definition, visually and physically accessible to the general population. Therefore it is usually installed or staged in easily accessible public spaces.
"Public art adds enormous value to the cultural, aesthetic and economic vitality of a community. It is now a well-accepted principle of urban design that public art contributes to a community's identity, fosters community pride and a sense of belonging, and enhances the quality of life for its residents and visitors," according to the Arts Council website.
The piece debuting at Up & Coming Weekly's office on Rowan St. is called "Wonder." It is an 114"x5'x5' fabricated painted steel. Here's the information on Wonder. Abigail Law is the artist.
"In much of my work I've attempted to capture both the spontaneity and order found in nature through the use of organic or 'natural' subject matter. Many of my pieces are inspired by the unexpected yet somewhat predictable patterns and forms found in living organisms. I have enjoyed exploring the complexities and sometimes otherworldly visual elements found within even the smallest of living organisms, and aim to create from that inspiration. This likely stems from many years spent working in the garden, and my lifelong love of gardening as a means of therapeutic escape.
'I am interested in making art that not only brings joy and inspires the viewer, but also causes them to ponder the beauty of life and creation. I make art for the enjoyment of the viewer, as well as to satisfy my own curiosity. Hopefully this fabricated steel sculpture called 'Wonder' is able to both instill a sense of wonder, and bring joy to those who experience it," Law said.
The Arts Council has a series of public art sculptures placed all around town. For more information, visit https://www.wearethearts.com/artscape6
The Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County just celebrated their 50th anniversary in Fayetteville. Their mission is to "connect our communities, embraces diversity, promotes individual creativity, advances economic development, and fosters lifelong learning through the arts. As the primary steward of public and private funding for arts, cultural and history activities in the Cape Fear Region, the Arts Council, and the agencies it supports are known for the core values of excellence, accountability, transparency, collaboration, and innovation."

("Wonder" sits outside of the Up & Coming Weekly community newspaper's office on Rowan St. in Fayetteville. Photo by Linda McAlister )

One of the great joys of summertime for many North Carolina families is a drive to the Sandhills to visit one of the roadside peach stands that dot the region.
The well-drained Sandhills provide for peach trees what the California Napa Valley does for grape vines. When the peach blossoms survive the late winter frosts and when spring and early summer bring the right amount of rain, it is hard to find anything that tastes better than a Sandhills peach.
Even a perfect peach has to be picked and eaten at the right time.
Peaches are temperamental. A just-picked, fully ripened peach can taste better than the most elegant dessert at a five-star restaurant.
But peaches do not age well. A perfectly delicious, fully ripe peach is right on the edge of disaster. Deterioration and decay begin almost immediately. The best peach will not be as good after a few hours, and it can be a mushy mess of decay in a few days or less.
Peaches don't travel well either. Ripe ones bruise easily. Temperature variations and the lapse of time make the peach less and less appealing every minute after it leaves the tree.
So the best way for a North Carolina family to get a bite of a most delicious peach is to buy a ripe one right after it is picked.
The temperamental peach can sometimes drive a peach farmer crazy as he tries to manage the timing of its growth and harvest. But its nature is also a godsend for the Sandhill growers. It is this temperamental nature that keeps families driving down to the Sandhills to experience the perfect peach taste that is available only close to the source.
Over the last few years, many North Carolina small farmers found that they can no longer compete with the larger operations. As much as they love farming and farm life, many have had to find other lines of work.
Sandhills peach farmers face some of the same challenges. But, as a result of the peach’s temperamental quality, freshly picked peaches sold by the orchard owners directly to consumers are worth much more than those sold before they are ripe to large wholesalers and grocery store chains.
This phenomenon helps explain why North Carolina peach farmers have resisted the pressures of consolidation longer than most small farmers.
Since it is better to buy peaches as close to the source as possible, small orchards can make more money selling directly at their roadside stands than they can by selling large quantities to wholesalers.
Thankfully, there are still plenty of these family-run orchards in the Sandhills, where we can buy those precious peaches from the same people who grow them.
Greene’s Pee Dee Orchard’s peach stand on U.S. Highway 74 is on the west side of the bridge across the Pee Dee River between Wadesboro and Rockingham. (Don’t miss the fresh peach ice cream that Greene’s family makes on the spot.)
Greene is just one of a proud group of Sandhills peach farmers.
“There are lots of others you should mention, lots of other good peach growers around here.” Greene’s friend and fellow peach grower, the late beloved Watts Auman told me. “We are like a big clan. And the truth is, all Sandhills peaches are almost always real good, if you get them fresh and ripe.”

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

“When you look at a miniature … The beauty is in the details.”
— Bill Richardson
Cape Fear Studios is presenting the Sculpture and Miniature Challenge exhibit from July 26 to Aug. 20. The exhibit will feature 2D and 3D small works by local artists. The studio is located at 148 Maxwell Street, Fayetteville. The exhibit is open Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Best of Show will be determined by guest judge, Silvana Foti.
“2D art exists primarily in a flat, two-dimensional plane, (painting, photograph), while 3D occupies space with a measurable height, width, and depth, (sculpture),” according to Study.Com.
Pandy Autry, president, Cape Fear Studios, shares, “Miniature Art is an intriguing art form that reflects our world on a smaller scale emphasizing details that can get lost in a greater work. Having a show of only miniatures allows us to focus on these pieces, as they are often overlooked when mixed with larger pieces. I hope the show can continue to expand to more awareness and focus our visitors to seek and explore the world of art in miniature.”
Silvana Foti is the guest judge of the Sculpture and Miniature Challenge exhibit. She holds an MFA from the University of Notre Dame and a BFA from St Mary’s College, Notre Dame. She is affiliated with the Association of Academic Museums and Galleries and the Association of Art Museum Curators, New York, to name a few. She is a tenured professor of art at Methodist University and was the executive director of the David McCune International Art Gallery on the campus.
“As a practicing artist, Silvana is best known for her expertise in printmaking. In addition to participating in more than 50 artist exhibitions, her former and current art gallery representation encompasses works on display in nine galleries throughout North Carolina, New York City and Chicago. Her personal works are on display in more than 45 public and private collections,” according to her biography.
Nancy R. Edge won Honorable Mention in the show with the piece entitled “Tundra Swan.”
“I like to play with light. The light follows the form. Light mirrors the swan’s feathers. The contrasts of light within nature are captured by the medium of pastels,” she said.
Small-scale is beautiful. Stop by the Cape Fear Studios Sculpture and Miniature Art Challenge. Admission is free. For more information, contact Cape Fear Studios by email at https://www.capefearstudios.com or phone at 910-433-2986.

Step back in time and experience the excitement of medieval-style combat at the Thaundor Annual Tournament Day VII. This unique event, hosted by The Realm of Thaundor, transports participants and spectators alike to a bygone era filled with brave warriors and epic battles. Held at Dirtbag Ales on Saturday, Aug. 17 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Thaundor Tournament promises a day of thrilling action and fierce competition.
Immerse yourself in the atmosphere as fighters from all over North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia come together to showcase their skills and vie for victory. Dressed in era-appropriate attire, these warriors are ready to engage in medieval style combat using foam weapons. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or a first-time spectator, the Thaundor Tournament offers an exhilarating experience for all.
To participate in the tournament, fighters must be affiliated with a Foam Fighting Association or demonstrate adequate training and knowledge of the rules and guidelines for foam fighting safety. However, the tournaments are free to observe, and spectators are encouraged to join in the fun by dressing in medieval attire, although it is not a requirement.
The tournament day kicks off with check-ins at 10 a.m., where fighters will have their weapons inspected and sign up for the tournaments. Warm-up scenarios will take place at 11 a.m., providing an opportunity for fighters to loosen up before the main battles begin. At noon, the series of tournaments will commence, running consecutively throughout the day.
The tournament structure follows a bracketed format, with seven tournaments for each weapon category. Two fighters will be called from the bracket to engage in a best-of-three, one-on-one battle. The winner advances to the next round, while the loser is eliminated. This continues until the finals, where the two finalists will fight a best-of-five battle to determine the champion of the bracket.
While the focus of the event is primarily on the tournaments, there will also be sparring and small scenario style battles to keep fighters entertained while they wait for their turns. Additionally, participants and spectators can look forward to a raffle at the end of the event, offering the chance to win some exciting swag. After the tournaments conclude, an award ceremony will be held to recognize the winners.
If you're interested in joining The Realm of Thaundor Group and getting involved in foam fighting, you can show up at their practice location at College Lakes Park on Sundays at noon. They also have a Facebook group that provides updates on upcoming events and practices. See their Facebook group page at https://www.facebook.com/groups/Thaundor. Don't miss out on this chance to be a part of a vibrant community of medieval combat enthusiasts.

(Photos: Top and Above: The Realm of Thaundor attendees fight using medieval-style techniques. Photos courtesy of Tyler Joseph Hancox from the Realm of Thaundor)

Curate Essentials, located at 1302 Ft. Bragg Rd in historic Haymount, resides in a charming building from 1914 that once served as a private home, offering a unique blend of history and modern elegance. The white storefront beckons with its cozy wrap-around porch and lush garden oasis. Customers can shop, sip on a refreshing tea or coffee on the inviting front porch or take a leisurely stroll through the stunning garden.
Curate aims to craft all-natural products that promote balance in mind, body, and spirit. Owner Leslie Pearson explains more about what Curate provides.
“Curate Essentials is primarily an herbal apothecary. We specialize in handcrafted, all-natural bath and body products and herbal remedies such as functional tea blends, tinctures, balms and salves, and other medicinal alternatives. We make everything in small batches to provide the freshest quality, so visitors can usually find us in the kitchen making anything from soap, lotions, candles, shampoo and conditioner, and sugar scrubs. We also serve tea, coffee and pastries that people can enjoy on our wrap-around covered porch overlooking our herbal education garden.”
The garden features azaleas, camellias, dogwoods and Japanese maples. The herbal section boasts medicinal plants, wildflowers, and pollinator-friendly flora.
“We created an herbal education garden in the front of the shop so people can see, smell and touch many of the herbs we use in our tea blends. It’s a lovely addition to the Haymount neighborhood and quite an eye-catcher for passersby. We have also included many natural dye plants, pollinators, and native botanicals that enhance the overall experience.”
As Curate Essentials celebrates its second anniversary, it's the perfect time to reflect on the key milestones and success stories that have shaped their journey. Over the past two years, they have touched the lives of countless individuals, providing them with natural healing solutions and community that have made a real difference.
“Curate has become a comfortable third place for a lot of people and I feel so blessed to see the connections happening - especially for those with spouses who are deployed. We have a mom’s support group that meets up every week, book clubs, and other groups who come to Curate for informal gatherings,” Pearson said.
“Our inventory has grown based on the needs of the community who we serve - especially our functional tea blends. We make blends to soothe anything from allergies, stress and anxiety, sleep issues, and lymphatic support and even blends for pregnant and nursing mothers. We offer an alternative to pharmaceuticals, which has become important to many people. We like to say we have something from dandruff to athlete’s foot and everything in between.”
Curate Essentials is also looking ahead to the future. They are committed to continuing their research and development efforts, exploring new ingredients and techniques to enhance the effectiveness of their remedies. The team at Curate Essentials is passionate about uncovering the full potential of nature and harnessing it to create even more powerful healing solutions. They also are planning classes and workshops to get the community involved.
“We plan to eventually offer classes on a variety of things like candle and soap making, art, herbalism, and other related interests,” said Pearson.
We asked Pearson to name her top five favorite items in the shop. Here’s her "Favorite Things" list:
• The new men and women’s facial line, which includes a daily cleanser, refining toner, hydrating moisturizer, soothing eye treatment, and an age-defying serum. I feel really good about using these products on my sensitive skin and recommending them to our customers.
• Our Goat's Milk, Oatmeal and Honey bar soap is another favorite - it’s lightly scented, creamy, and gentle enough to use on babies. Oatmeal soothes sensitive skin and exfoliates with a gentle touch, honey is a natural humectant to help lock in moisture, and goat's milk has been used for years to nourish dry skin, soothe eczema and other irritated skin conditions.
• I’m currently in love with our Menopause Relief tea blend. We use Black Cohosh, Eleuthero, Red Raspberry Leaf, Red Clover, Valerian Root, Licorice Root, and Chamomile - all herbs that help reduce hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, constipation, and bloating. I drink a cup every evening before bed and I’ve experienced a noticeable difference.
• I use our Rosemary and Tea Tree Oil shampoo and conditioner. Both are specially formulated to sooth itchy scalps, promote hair growth and revitalize dry, dull hair by lifting buildup. The shampoo has a nice lather and is so invigorating that it wakes me up in the morning. It’s packed with nurturing ingredients like vitamin E oil, rosemary essential oil, and tea tree oil.
• Now let’s talk coffee - we serve Onyx Coffee Lab and my favorite is the Eclipse Blend which has notes of bakers chocolate, burnt sugar, and smoked vanilla bean. It tastes great black or as a latte and has become known as the Bosses Brew. Pair this with one of our fresh made pastries and your morning is set.
Curate Essentials is open Monday-Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Their website is www.curateessentials.com. Follow them on Facebook or Instagram @curateessentials.

(Photo: Leslie Pearson stands in front of the Curate sign. Located in Haymount, Curate is celebrating its second anniversary. Photo courtesy of Curate's Facebook page)

DistiNCtly Fayetteville’s recent Sports Commission Initiative is poised to sharpen the competitive edge of Fayetteville and Cumberland County’s sports tourism industry. Since the Commission's launch in April, they’ve only grown more intent on making Fayetteville and Cumberland County a go-to location for marquee events.
“In North Carolina alone, there are eight other sports commissions supporting their communities. Several rights-holders of events and tournaments will not consider destinations unless they have a sports commission to support it,” said Devin Heath, President and CEO of DistiNCtly Fayetteville. “In order for us to be competitive, we created the Fayetteville/Cumberland County Sport Commission.”
Sports Commissions across the country have positively impacted local economies, and Heath believes Fayetteville and Cumberland County are no different. He says they plan to attract tournaments and events by developing a comprehensive strategy, galvanizing the stakeholders, supporting the development of facilities, and developing resources. It’s a promising strategy.
The National Association of Sports Commissions describes this need for specialization in tourism promotion saying, “All across the nation, communities are realizing the massive economic and public relations impact sports can have on a city. Capitalizing on this impact requires special people with unique insights into this market. A special, dedicated effort led by community volunteers and ably assisted by quality staff members can make sports a major force in economic development or revitalization.”
With Heath’s 30-plus years of tourism marketing experience, they’re off to a running start.
Though momentum is building, DistiNCtly Fayetteville is still working overtime to position itself as an attractive destination for amateur and professional sporting events. They’ve booked a couple of tournaments since launching and identified several others that will not consider Fayetteville and Cumberland County on the basis that they do not have enough outdoor bleachers for their events.
Heath says they’re working on sourcing bleachers so they can attract those events. They also need volunteers to work on various aspects of the events. Volunteers fill crucial roles that ensure attendees can focus on enjoying themselves while the event infrastructure functions seamlessly in the background.
In the future, volunteers may have the opportunity to contribute to a signature FCSC sporting event. Heath believes a signature event would be in line with their overarching focus.
“This will promote wellness in our community
and... provide educational opportunities for community members to learn the sports and tourism industry,” Heath said.
Benefiting the community is at the center of FCSC’s mission. According to DistiNCtly Fayetteville, the Commission will initially focus on building local partnerships and improving and developing sporting facilities.
“The community is critical to our mission to make Cumberland County a nationally known destination. Through the commission, we are bringing key players to the table to ensure we’re all working collectively to promote what makes our region distinct,” Heath said.
Heath is optimistic about what the region has to offer and says to expect good things from the Commission moving forward.
“The future is very bright for Cumberland County and with the partnership and forward-thinking efforts of the community, we will become the destination to beat.”
Those interested in volunteering with the Fayetteville and Cumberland County Sports Commission can contact Devin Heath or Rachel Obermeier, Director of Sales & Sports Commission, at their respective emails: dheath@distinctlyfayettevillenc.com and robermeier@distinctlyfayettevillenc.com

Prepare for an electrifying night of music and excitement on Friday, Aug. 16 with the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra’s string quartet at Cape Fear Botanical Garden. Don’t miss the grand finale of the Sunset Series summer concerts, featuring a thrilling game of Music Bingo.
Experience the electrifying sounds of the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra's star cellist, Jesse Smith, alongside the dynamic Magnolia String Quartet. Get ready for an unforgettable night packed with legendary hits from icons like Elton John, Paul McCartney, Frank Sinatra, and more.
Get ready to crank up the excitement with Music Bingo — a thrilling twist on the classic game. Imagine jamming out to snippets of your favorite tracks while battling it out against fellow music lovers for awesome prizes. Forget the DJ; this is going to be taking it up a notch with electrifying live music!
Here's how it works:
• Musical Clues: Instead of letters and numbers, the quartet plays a 30-second song snippet. Expect pop classics, modern hits, and tunes everyone knows.
• Mark Your Card: If you recognize the song and see it on your bingo card, mark the square.
• Achieve a Win: Complete a traditional 5-in-a-row pattern to win.
• Prizes: Winners receive Symphony tickets, Garden experiences, FSO or CFBG swag, and more!
This high-energy event lasts about an hour and features two intense rounds of bingo.
Food trucks will be on-site, serving up mouthwatering delights alongside a fully stocked bar and a variety of other drink options. Plus, you’ll have full access to explore the stunning garden grounds throughout the event.
Event Timeline:
• 5:30: Food Trucks open and Bingo Cards available to guests
• 6:30: Music Bingo Round 1
• 7:15: Music Bingo Round 2
Admission for this Event (includes entry & bingo game cards for 2 rounds):
• Members Ages 13+: $5 (+tax)
• Non-Members Ages 13+: $15 (+tax)
• Members Ages 6 to 12 – $3 (+tax)
• Non-Members Ages 6 to 12 – $5 (+tax)
• Ages 5 and Under: Free
There is no need to purchase a ticket ahead of time for this event. Cash and card will be accepted for tickets at the time of admission.
Things to Know:
• Limited seating will be available, so bringing your own chairs is recommended for comfort.
• The Garden is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Arrive early to enjoy the grounds or explore during the event.
• The Garden Gift Shop will be open.
• Food trucks will start serving at 5:30 p.m., but you can also bring your own food.
• The event is rain or shine. They prefer to be outdoors but will move to the Orangery if needed.
Be sure to check the Cape Fear Botanical Garden’s website for up-and-coming events at https://www.capefearbg.org/
The Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra’s season opener is “Music of the Knights” on Saturday, Sept. 21 at 7:30 p.m. at Seabrook Auditorium. Experience the iconic music of Sir Paul McCartney, Sir Elton John, and Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber performed by Broadway’s most gifted voices alongside your Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra. Tickets can be purchased at https://www.fayettevillesymphony.org or by calling the FSO office at 910-433-4690.

Kick off the new school year with a bang! Discover the best back-to-school bashes and events that promise fun and excitement for kids as well as get them well-stocked with school supplies to start the school year off in style.

August 8
• Back to School Giveaway & Open House at A&M Youth Cultivation Center, 211 Owen Drive
5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Learn about their before and after school Academic Enrichment Program, receive school supplies, and enjoy a complimentary serving of Wisdom Water Ice.
https://tinyurl.com/4frjmxzb

August 9
• Back to School Bash & Alumni Soccer Game at Fayetteville Academy, 3200 Cliffdale Rd
4 p.m.
Join in for this annual alumni event with bounce houses, food trucks, music, and a junior soccer clinic.
https://tinyurl.com/zjvx92kf

August 10
• Back to School Giveaway at Living Spirit Ministries, 951 McPherson Church Rd, Suite 102
10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Living Spirit Ministries is hosting a back-to-school giveaway with school supplies and clothing.
https://tinyurl.com/4ndu6sjb

• Back to School Bash at Honeycutt Park, 352 Devers St
11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Come out for school supplies, hot dogs, snow cones and a gift for all the teachers.
https://tinyurl.com/y839am9x

• Back to School Backpack Giveaway at Grace Place Gym, 302 Moore Street
10 a.m.- 2 p.m.
The child must be present for a backpack.
For more information call Anita Grant at 910-483-6505.

• Back to School Event at Healing Touch Ministries, 1411 Rim Rd
11 a.m.
There will be food, school supplies, bookbags, games and much more.
For more information call 910-493-0596.
• Back to School Book Bag Giveaway at Mendoza Park, 1114 Little River Rd, Spring Lake
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Enjoy some food, music, vendors and more. For more information call 910-261-1444

• Back 2 School at Simon Temple, 5760 Yadkin Rd
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Free school supplies, free food, vendors, music and much more. For more information call 910-867-1182.

• Big ERV's Back 2 School Bash at Big Erv BBQ & 910 Sweets The Neighborhood Pit Stop, LLC, 670 N. Reilly Rd
12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Every child will receive a free meal and school supplies while they last.
https://www.facebook.com/events/881075840709655

August 11
• 3rd Annual Back to School Backpack Giveaway at 1866 Brawley Avenue
3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Essential school supplies for students K-12. One backpack per student. Students must be present. While supplies last.

August 12
• Back to School Bash at Imagination Station Kidcare, 232 Westwood Shopping Center
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Enjoy games, crafts, pizza and a small goodie bag of school supplies, for ages 4 and up. Tickets are $60. Call 910-745-7271
for more information.

• Back to School Bash at Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers, 4825 Ramsey St
3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Kick off the school year with fun Back to School Bash at Freddy's.
https://tinyurl.com/vdde9jpk

August 14
• CKMC Back2School Ride & Donation Drive at Fort Bragg Harley-Davidson, 3950 Sycamore Dairy Rd.
8 a.m.
This year the CKMC is supporting students of the Westarea Elementary School. Tickets to this event and donations will be used to support this school.
https://tinyurl.com/bdvehz77

August 15
• Community Outreach Day at Kingdom Impact Global Ministries, 2503 Murchison Rd
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
This family-friendly event will have free food, food giveaways, clothing giveaways, school supplies, haircuts, and medical screenings. For more information call 910-488-9456.

August 17
• Back to School Party at
Abundant Living, 200 Dick St
2 p.m.
Live music, school supplies and food. For more information call 605-637-9743.

• Back to School Backpack Giveaway at TrueVine, 5315 Morganton Rd
11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
There will be community resources, food and games. For more information email thegrouptheoryinc@gmail.com

• Back to School Family & Friends Day at Westover Rec Center/Park, 267 Bonanza Dr
11 a.m.
Free food, school supplies and bounce houses. For more information call 910-978-8010

• 4th Annual I Love My Community Celebration & Giveaway at Crown Complex, 1960 Coliseum Dr
11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Free backpacks, supplies, hygiene products, food with live music, games, and health resources. For more information call 910-491-9917.

• Backpack Drive & Block Party at Family Fellowship Worship Center, 1014 Danbury Rd
10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
There will be backpacks and school supplies for grades K-12 as well as food, games and music. For more information call 910-482-4022.

• Back 2 School Drive at Seabrook Park, 708 Langdon St
12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
There will be free food, free games, haircuts, hair braiding and a laptop giveaway. For more information call 910-728-8237

• Back to School Festival at Cadillac of Fayetteville, 1637 Skibo Rd
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Bring the family, friends and neighbors for free school supplies, games, activities, food trucks and the chance to win some awesome prizes.
https://tinyurl.com/5n7zxxf7

• Back to School Bash at St. Paul Full Gospel Baptist Church,
602 Mann St
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Pick up a brand new book bag full of school supplies. Enjoy some free food while supplies last.
https://tinyurl.com/fby6885t

• DCAs Back 2 School Bash at Dominion Christian Academy, 373 Pittman Grove Church Rd, Raeford
2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Join in for a fun-filled day planned with games, music, food and more.
https://tinyurl.com/5fdyznh8

• Fayetteville Roller Derby Back to School Bash Double Header at Crown Coliseum Arena, 1960 Coliseum Dr
5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Presale tickets are $12 for adults, $7 for kids 8-14. Day of tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for kids 8-17. Kids 7 and under are free.
https://tinyurl.com/b6yjp9u2
• 3rd Annual Back to School Event at Red Coat Design Studio, 7707 S Raeford Rd, Ste 109
11 a.m.-3 p.m.
There will be free backpacks, school supplies, hygiene items, apparel, food and drinks. Enjoy games, bounce house, face painting and more.
https://tinyurl.com/32cncnmc

School year information
Immunizations
As families begin thinking about their child heading back to school, they are reminded of their child's required immunizations for the new school year. Many can beat the rush and think ahead by taking advantage of Cumberland County Schools' upcoming Health Assessment Clinics, which have been rescheduled to Thursday, Aug. 8, and Monday, Sept. 23 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the T.C. Berrien building, located at 800 North Street in Fayetteville. Visit the district's website at https://bit.ly/3SToD2T for more details and information. Families are being encouraged to also visit the local health department or their primary care physician to get their child immunized.
Volunteers wanted for Student Success
In the district's effort to create opportunities for families to become engaged partners in their children's education, CCS is recruiting candidates at select schools for the Family Ambassadors Program. Those interested in helping CCS families to become more engaged in their child's educational success, promote a positive and welcoming learning environment at school and meet monthly with other families to learn more about what is happening in CCS, the Family Ambassador volunteer position may be the program for them. Participants could receive up to $150 monthly for completing certain family engagement tasks. For more information, visit CCS' Cumberland Family Academy website at https://bit.ly/3LSSmER.
High School Connections New Student Orientation
Students new to High School Connections are invited to the New Student Orientation on Saturday, Aug. 17 in the Horace Sisk Gym on the campus of Fayetteville Technical Community College. For students with last names A-K, orientation begins at 9 a.m. with an 8:30 a.m. check-in. Students with last names L-Z, will attend Orientation at 11 a.m. and check-in at 10:30 a.m. Students and their parents will receive program information, student account assistance, a student ID, a parking pass and a self-guided tour of the campus.
Want CCS Media Alerts?
If you are interested in receiving media alerts from Cumberland County Schools, text MEDIA to 888-897-0649. It's a toll-free number. After subscribing, you will receive media alerts via text message, e.g., press releases, media advisories, etc. Your wireless carrier's standard messaging rates will apply.

The Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association NC 15-1 (CVMA NC 15-1) is excited to announce the upcoming Annual Summer Bash, scheduled to take place on Saturday, Aug. 10, at the Fort Bragg Harley-Davidson located at 3950 Sycamore Dairy Rd. This event promises a day filled with camaraderie, fun, and community support for veterans in the surrounding areas of Fort Liberty.
The festivities begin with registration at 9 a.m., followed by the ride commencing at 11 a.m. and the last bike returning by 3 p.m.
April "Bubbles" Hawkins, the event coordinator, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome all motorcycle enthusiasts to join us for a great cause. Whether you’re an experienced rider or new to the community, this event is for everyone who wants to show support for our veterans.”
Open to the public, the Summer Bash is an important fundraiser for CVMA NC 15-1. All proceeds from the event will support veterans in need. The day's activities will include a variety of vendors, a poker run, food and drinks, and a raffle featuring intriguing "pew pew" items that will capture everyone's interest.
Hawkins further emphasized, “We have an exciting lineup of activities planned for the day, and we anticipate a fantastic turnout. Bring your bike, bring a friend, and come out to support a good cause. You might even go home with something you didn't know you needed!”
The event will host diverse vendors offering unique products and services contributing to the vibrant atmosphere. But that's not all. Participants in the poker run will have the chance to win exciting prizes, adding an extra layer of thrill to the ride. And the raffle items are always a highlight, offering attendees the opportunity to win valuable prizes while supporting a worthy cause. It's going to be an exhilarating day for everyone involved.
Various food and drinks will be available throughout the day to ensure that everyone stays energized and hydrated. The Summer Bash aims to provide a fun and engaging environment where attendees can connect with fellow riders and show their support for the veteran community.
For those interested in becoming a vendor or seeking more information about the event, please get in touch with April "Bubbles" Hawkins at 910-578-3568. This event presents a prime opportunity for local businesses and individuals to showcase their products and services to a large and diverse audience while contributing to a noble cause.
The CVMA NC 15-1 is dedicated to supporting veterans and their families in the Fort Liberty area, and events like the Annual Summer Bash are crucial in raising the necessary funds to continue this important work. Your participation in this event is not just about having a good time, it's about making a real difference in the lives of our veterans. The association is grateful for the community's support and looks forward to a successful and enjoyable event.
Hawkins urged, “Come out and join us in supporting veterans in the community. Your participation makes a significant difference, and we can't wait to see everyone there.”
The Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association NC 15-1 Annual Summer Bash is not just an event but a celebration of community spirit and support for those who have served. Join the ride, enjoy the festivities, and make a difference in the lives of veterans.

(Photo: CVMA NC 15-1 poses for a photograph at Legends Pub. The veterans motorcycle group will be hosting their annual Summer Bash at the Fort Bragg Harley Davidson on Aug. 10. Photo courtesy of CVMA NC 15-1 Facebook page)

Being a professional woman in 2024 means walking the tightrope of professional and personal life with the constant pressure from society to be Superwoman, making support groups all that more important.
Fortunately, there are groups like Networth, a collective of professional women started in the spring of 1980. What began as a one-time professional women-centered workshop, sponsored by the North Carolina Governor’s Council on the Status of Women at Fayetteville Technical Community College, has grown into something far bigger and impactful than anyone could have anticipated.
Locals Suzanne Barlow, Evans Clark, Mary Grace Cain, Vonna Biglione, Jean Smith, Jessica Steward, Anne Nimocks, Lucy Wofford, Omega Weeks, Jan Babcock, Suzan Cheek, Betty Chiles, Jeanette Council, Sandra Edwards, Phyllis McLeod Laslett, Virginia Thompson Oliver, Carol Parker, Sophia Pierce, Ashley Rabun, and Susan Sheref continued to meet regularly for lunches and discussions on how they could not only support one another but the community that they lived and worked in.
They eventually reached out to the Women’s Forum in Greensboro for guidance. September 27, 1980, marks the official establishment of Networth, and when the organization started meeting formally.
At the first meeting, the founders established the organization's mission, to recognize the success of the individual woman in her business, professional, and or community role; to exchange knowledge, experience, and encouragement with one another; to provide an informal, out-of-the-office atmosphere to create a network of professional friendships; to meet monthly for business-related programs designed to educate rather than entertain: and to limit membership to a manageable number (through a sponsorship-endorsement system) in an effort to nourish friendships and to build a well-balanced blend of talents within the group.
Although most organizations like Networth are open to all women in the community, Networth membership is by invitation only. This allows the organization to stay small with the maximum impact on the community.
“Membership is by invitation and is open to such professional and executive women as managers; licensed or degreed professionals, business proprietors, partners, or local agents; holders of elected or appointed public office; and others who, in the judgment of the Membership Committee, can contribute to and profit from the activities of the organization. A new member must be sponsored by two current members in good standing,” explained member Dena Breece.
Breece also said, “The purpose of Networth, then, is the mutual support of women on a professional level. We learn from one another by sharing professional information, experience, and ideas. We develop the confidence of women executives and offer educational experiences for them. We encourage one another and other women to aspire to higher career goals. Our aim is to create an influential forum uniting women who have excelled in their vocations, to lend support to one another, to encourage others, and to help the community at large.”
Networth not only pours life and knowledge into its members but also the community through its scholarship program. Every year, they give 3 local women each a $2,000 scholarship. Scholarships are given to those who attend one of three institutions of higher education in Fayetteville: Fayetteville Technical Community College, Methodist University, and Fayetteville State University. Scholarship winners are announced at the annual Scholarship Luncheon with members, scholarship recipients, and their families. This year’s scholarships were awarded to three brilliant and talented women.
This year's winners were:
DIAMOND FRANKLIN
Methodist University
Doctoral of Occupational Therapy
DANIELLE VINES
Fayetteville Technical Community College
Associate Degree in Radiography
ANDREA ROSS
Fayetteville Technical Community College
Associate Degree of Nursing

Unpaved and secluded, the J. Bayard Clark Park boasts a series of short trails perfect for various ages and abilities.
With three individual trails totaling 1.4 miles and loads of activities available, a visit can be shaped as a brief, self-guided nature walk, or as a pinecone scavenger hunt complete with a visit to the Nature Center or playground.
Park Ranger Supervisor Denise Brown vouched for the distinctiveness of the Clark Park Trails, explaining that the seclusion and organic footpaths provide a close-up look at a large variety of plant and animal life.
“You can hear a lot of bird sounds out on the trails this time of year. If we have a decent amount of rain like we have lately, you can overlook the waterfall near the start of the Bear trail and see it flowing. Our trails are particularly shady as well, which I think is noteworthy this time of year. The Wetlands trail is my personal favorite for walking on a warm day.”
The Wetland Trail, the Laurel Trail and the Bear Trail are the Park’s three main attractions for those interested in strolling. Each trail offers something different. Measuring .3 miles, the Laurel Trail is the shortest and features a fairy garden at the start of the trail. The second longest is the Wetland Trail, which features a somewhat swampy terrain. Brown says it’s perfect for spotting animal tracks.
The Bear Trail offers the longest stretch of path. It’s .6 miles and takes visitors closer to the Cape Fear River. All three trails can be walked in succession, and alltrails.com advises that it only takes an average of 26 minutes to do so. This includes a slight elevation gain of 59ft on portions of the trail.
As you walk, you can soak up the joys of nature at your own pace, or you can participate in one of several trail-themed activities the park offers. Currently, there’s a pinecone scavenger hunt on the Laurel Trail, which encourages visitors to keep their eyes peeled for specimens that fall from the towering pines above.
There’s also an event called Fun with Fungi. According to Brown, participants will learn about the fascinating world of fungi and their importance to the forest. This includes toadstools, morels, fairy rings, puffballs, truffles, mold and lichens. Participants get to view preserved specimens before heading down the trail to find living fungi. It’s a free event that will take place Thursday, Aug. 22 from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and is suitable for all ages.
For a fusion of self-paced and guided experiences, there’s a stretch of paved trail near the playground featuring StoryWalk. StoryWalk is a collaboration between Fayetteville-Cumberland Parks and Recreation and the Cumberland County Public Library. Funded by the Women’s Giving Circle, the trail features a series of stands displaying pages of the picture book Mouse House Tales.
By walking the trail, visitors can follow the story of turning a house into a home and learn from STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) themes the book features.
The park also welcomes volunteers and provides training for all roles. For those who prefer to take an active role in helping others enjoy the outdoors, the park offers Nature Hike Guide training. As a Nature Hike Guide, participants learn to give structured Nature Hikes to groups ages 4 to 12 years. It’s a perfect way to pass on the joy of nature and exploration while spending time outdoors.
Consistent with the park’s focus on engaging visitors of all ages, the trails feature free activity stations as part of the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation’s “Kids in Parks” network of trails. According to their mission statement, Kids in Parks began in 2018 as a way to “Engage kids and families in outdoor recreation to foster lifelong wellness and meaningful connections to public lands.”
Fayetteville-Cumberland Co. Parks and Recreation explains how Kids in Parks works: “Goals are to encourage physical activity and build connections with nature to inspire the next generation of public land stewards. Each station has a series of brochures that turn an ordinary hike into an adventure. Pamphlets encourage children to identify plants and animals, view the forest from the perspective of creatures, and search for natural features. Children can record their adventures at KidsinParks.com to earn PRIZES and plan more adventures.”
Mailed prizes include collectible stickers, first aid kits, bike lights, and more.
Visitors can access the trailheads and the rich variety of free activities at J. Bayard Clark Park by parking in the paved lot at 631 Sherman Dr.

(Photo: StoryWalk is part of a paved stretch of trails with a collaboration between the Fayetteville Cumberland Parks and Recreation and the Cumberland County Public Library. The trail features displays of the picture book "Mouse House Tales." Photo courtesy of City of Fayetteville Flickr) 

The Friends of the Cumberland County Library Inc. are gearing up for their highly anticipated quarterly book sale beginning on Aug.12 at their corporate location at 300 Maiden Lane, Fayetteville. This event promises a treasure trove of literary delights, from the latest bestsellers to beloved classics.
Public libraries are the heartbeat of our communities, serving as essential hubs of knowledge, education, and cultural enrichment. The Friends of the Library understand the profound impact these institutions have on our lives, and they are committed to ensuring the library's continued success.
Marili Melchionne, the Operations Manager, emphasizes the importance of maintaining the library's presence, stating, "Programs draw people to libraries, but programs need to be funded so that people can have the resources."
The goal for this book sale is an ambitious $10,000, a target the Friends of the Library have surpassed in the past through their tireless efforts.
Beyond the book sale, the Friends of the Library also supports the library through author visits, workshops, and other engaging events that enrich the cultural fabric of our community. These initiatives not only foster a love of reading but also provide valuable educational opportunities for people of all ages.
If you're not already a member, consider joining the Friends of the Library. Your support will not only help sustain the library's vital services but also ensure that future generations can continue to experience the magic of discovering new worlds through the written word.
Ann McRae has been volunteering for the Friends of the Library book sale for six years. “The book sale room is definitely a happy place for me! In between sales I sort and shelve the donated books, puzzles, and games, working around two hours a week. During the sales, I look forward to seeing our regular patrons and meeting new shoppers. It’s always a treat to see a new person walk in and stand agog at how much we have and how well-organized it is. If you have never been to a sale and you love books, please pay us a visit. We love connecting books with people,” McRae shares.
The Cumberland County Public Library is a true friend to the community, offering a wealth of resources and services that enrich the lives of all who visit. With a mission to support, encourage, and engage the diverse population it serves, this dynamic library system is a cornerstone of the region.
At the heart of the library's purpose is a steadfast commitment to providing free and equitable access to information, experiences, and opportunities. Whether seeking the latest bestseller or researching a topic, the Cumberland County Public Library is here to meet the community’s needs.
Through innovative, traditional, and transformational approaches, the library continuously evolves. From cutting-edge digital resources to beloved classic collections, there is something for everyone to discover and enjoy. The library's dedication to serving the informational and recreational needs of the community is unparalleled, making it a true friend to all who walk through its doors.
Join the exclusive to members sale on Aug. 12. The public sale will begin Aug. 16, from noon to 5 p.m., Aug. 17, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Aug. 18, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. So, bring your boxes, shopping bags, and wagons, and stock up on a literary bounty that will nourish your mind and soul.
For more information or to become a member, visit their website at www.cumberlandcountylibraryfriends.com and follow them on Facebook so you won’t miss any upcoming events or community events. To donate, visit https://www.cumberlandcountync.gov/departments/library-group/library/give-now

Titanium company creating 300 jobs with a new manufacturing facility
The Fayetteville Cumberland Economic Development Corporation (FCEDC) is proud to announce that Project Aero has chosen Cumberland County for its aerospace-grade titanium mill. The company will create over 300 jobs, with an average salary of $123,476, while investing more than $867 million in buildings and equipment.
Project Aero addresses a substantial manufacturing supply chain need of the United States’ aerospace industry – namely, the availability of aerospace-grade titanium. Aerospace Manufacturers value titanium for its unique properties. Titanium can be combined with many other metals, such as aluminum, vanadium, and iron.
Titanium alloys are valued by aircraft manufacturers, as well as across many industries due to their low density, high strength, corrosion resistance, and ability to withstand extremes of temperature. The company’s project in Fayetteville will establish approximately a 500,000-square-foot facility and campus that is purpose-built to melt, roll, and finish titanium.
“With 20 plus years at U.S. Steel and 13 years at Nucor Corporation, developing five greenfield steel mill projects, I am proud to lead the construction of such a mission-critical project, ” said LeRoy Prichard, President of Capital Projects for Project Aero.
In May, the City of Fayetteville and Cumberland County approved incentive packages designed to support the project, provided the company achieves required performance benchmarks.
“We are thrilled that Project Aero has chosen Cumberland County for their new state-of-the-art facility, and we look forward to welcoming them to our community,” said County Chairman Glenn Adams. “When we, as the Board, consider which projects to recruit into our community, we are always mindful of the impact on our residents and the opportunities they will provide. We want everyone to know that Cumberland County is open for business and hope this will spur continued economic growth.”
“This project highlights our potential in the aerospace and advanced manufacturing sectors, making Fayetteville poised for tremendous growth and increased prosperity,” said Mayor Mitch Colvin. “This historic investment will create several hundred high-paying jobs, with average salaries nearly double the national average and significantly higher than the average salary in North Carolina. We are excited to welcome this transformational project to Fayetteville and look forward to the future opportunities it will bring."
On behalf of the company, Project Aero Chairman Teresa McBride expressed appreciation for all that is being done to support the project.
“This would not have been possible without the support of Governor Roy Cooper, the State of North Carolina, Cumberland County, The City of Fayetteville, Fayetteville PWC, Dr. Franklin Clark, and Piedmont Natural Gas. We are grateful for the tireless effort FCEDC President & CEO Robert Van Geons and Executive Vice President Rob Patton have given to advance this project. We would also like to specifically thank Mayor Mitch Colvin, Chairman Glenn Adams, and PWC CEO Tim Bryant for their leadership and support,” said McBride.
In a release today announcing the project, Governor Roy Cooper said “From the moment the Wright brothers pioneered powered flight at Kitty Hawk, the aerospace industry has been a cornerstone of modern life, driving technological advancements and fostering connectivity. North Carolina offers aerospace manufacturers like this one in Cumberland County a talented workforce, worker training systems, and world-class transportation networks that will help them grow and succeed in our state.”
Methodist University golf national champions honored
Representatives of the national championship-winning Methodist University men's golf team were recognized on Monday at the White House as U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris hosted NCAA championship teams from the 2023-24 season.
MU's Head Men's Golf Coach Steve Conley and players Chase Walts and Caleb Ryan attended the event that celebrated the team's 14th NCAA Division III National Championship, which was won in May in Las Vegas. Conley was named national coach of the year for the ninth time, and both Ryan (a senior) and Walts (a junior) earned first-team All-American honors.
The ceremony can be viewed by visiting https://www.youtube.com/live/eujVj7dE3_M
MU also had members of its nationally renowned PGA Golf Management program in attendance, including MU Women's Golf Head Coach Kelsie Warren. Warren was also a national champion at Methodist University and a four-time All-American. The MU women's program has won 26 national titles.
To learn more about MU's PGM program – which has a 100% student job placement rate in the golf industry since 1989 – visit methodist.edu/pgm

(Bottom Photo: Methodist University Golf national champions (l-r) Chase Walts, Coach Steve Conley, and Caleb Ryan pose at the White House in Washington, D.C. on Monday prior to being honored for their 14th title by Vice President Kamala Harris and others. Photo courtesy of MU)

Mr. Bowman,
When I read your well-written article "Profanity and vulgarity diminish the Hope Mills Commission's credibility," (published July 10) I honestly couldn't agree more. Hopefully, this will help to curb some of the unprofessional and unbecoming conduct of our Hope Mills Commissioners.
I agree; this is a blatant expression of disrespect to the citizens of Hope Mills. Many residents here miss having Hope Mills news and information in your Up & Coming Weekly newspaper. Hope Mills residents and businesses need local media. Unfortunately, our most prominent source of news and information comes from social media networks, and, like most online platforms, are fueled with wild speculations, rumors, and gossip.
Lisa Carter Waring of Hope Mills manages The Chatter website, which has rules for participation, with the number one rule being: "Be kind and courteous to one another, even when you disagree. No hate speech, combativeness, or bullying will be tolerated." Well, this is not so in reality. During the last election, I and three other Hope Mills citizens attempted to promote a candidate forum for the community. Unfortunately, I was bullied, criticized, and villainized by The Chatter site postings. So much for Rule Number One! As a result, I was uninvited to participate in The Chatter and exiled from another social media site called Hope Mills Cumberland County Matters.
I was blocked by citizens with whom I had never had any conflict, all due to the nonsense put out by The Chatter. I do not doubt that if the Town of Hope Mills had its own media source, the citizens would be far better informed on local news and current events, and this unprofessional and toxic behavior would be eliminated, putting a stop to the dissemination of false information, public shaming, and hurtful criticisms within the Hope Mills community. Hope Mills desperately needs a cheerful voice to help businesses and organizations develop economically and capture the beauty and essence of Hope Mill's living.
This kind of honest media would provide our citizens and town officials with the confidence and support they need to make good decisions concerning the community. I applaud you and your staff for reporting on the activities of the government of the Town of Hope Mills. I believe this compliments the entire Hope Mills community.
Keep up the excellent work.
Cindy Hamilton
Hope Mills Resident

Travel back through the mists of time to the year I was to start college with the smugness only a clueless 17-year-old can display.
My English teacher during my senior year in high school was superb. He covered works from Beowulf to Shakespeare and on to American writers, including Mark Twain and William Faulkner. Since Mr. Tate had taught me everything I thought a girl needed to know, I secretly believed there was no need for me to attend college. I would condescend to go, however, because I knew my parents would be upset if I did not.
All these years later, I am profoundly grateful that my parents prevailed over my young and foolish heart.
That is why I am so troubled by the results of a Gallup/Lumina Foundation poll released earlier this month. It found that only 36 percent of Americans express significant confidence in higher education. Less than 10 years ago, 57 percent expressed confidence. These findings crossed demographic lines including age, gender, and political affiliations, although Democrats and independents voiced more confidence than Republicans. The bottom line is that more than two-thirds of survey respondents, 67 percent, say that higher education is moving in the “wrong direction.”
Without question, there are problems in American higher education.
It is very expensive, even the public institutions, and many students emerge shackled by debt.
Many colleges and universities struggle with curricula, with some traditional subject areas losing student interest as newer fields of study emerge. In this era of polarizing political positions, colleges face darned-if-you-do and darned-if-you-don’t teach certain subjects in certain ways. In addition, many Americans have come to see college as not so much a way to become “educated” in the traditional sense but a way to get a job. As one Connecticut resident told the Associated Press about a recent high school graduate planning to go to welding school, “You graduate out of college, you’re up to your eyeballs in debt, you can’t get a job, then you can’t pay it off. What’s the point?”
Higher education is about getting a job — perhaps many jobs over a lifetime, but it is not a trade school that makes one immediately employable in a specific field such as welding. It is about understanding the world around us now and how the world got to be the way it is. It is about reading widely both for concrete information and to find knowledge and beauty in both natural and human creations. It is about understanding what has come before us so that we can emulate the positives of the past and avoid its pitfalls.
Perhaps because of Mr. Tate, I was an English major in college and later did graduate work in what is now called Communications. I did get jobs for which I was “prepared,” though not actually “trained” to execute right out of the gate. All along the way, my college education has provided the tools to understand much of the world around me and why change is always occurring. It has enriched my life immeasurably through reading and exposure to different arts and different cultures.
My parents were right. Despite obstacles, some built-in and some temporary, higher education is worth it. The poet Mary Oliver famously asked this question. “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?”
Higher education can help us answer life’s most fundamental question.

President Donald J. Trump,
I am writing this letter while fully realizing that you will likely never see it. In spite of that reality, I am compelled to write it because of my love for America and a profound conviction that you must win the presidency in November. I voted for you in 2016 and 2020. I am locked-in and will definitely vote for you again this year. There are millions of people across this nation who will do the same.
Despite the millions of Americans who support you, the reality is that you must convert millions more who are not onboard at this point and are needed to give you victory. For many, the key to winning those voters is to forthrightly address problems, solutions, and policies while staying clear of personal attacks on your opponents or on others aligned with them. Finding the balance to address their policy failings and the clear dangers posed by their proposed actions and policies, while steering clear of attacking individuals and groups is crucial. Further, this election must not simply be about winning; it must also be about uniting the citizens of our nation.
As I write this letter, I am watching reporting on President Joe Biden having withdrawn from the presidential race. That compounds my concern that you give thought to how you are conducting your campaign. You will now face a different opponent and the need, I believe, to reassess your personal approach is even more critical. I am extremely concerned that if you continue prosecuting the case for your election as you are doing now, you will not win and our once great nation will lose all possibility of being “Great Again.”
Watching your speeches, especially the one at the Republican National Convention, leads me to conclude that your speechwriters are focused on addressing the problems, solutions, and policies. I am sure that there is much of your input in what they write.
I am asking that you trust their guidance and follow what is on the teleprompter. When you are tempted to stray from the speech and verbiage that has been prepared, ask yourself if doing so actually advances the point that you are making and/or is it needlessly attacking others. If straying a bit is on point, fine.
Relatedly, the 11:00 PM news just came on. They showed a portion of an ad from your campaign presenting President Biden and Vice-President Harris in a very negative light. Trust me, responsible Americans are tired of, totally disgusted with the atmosphere reflected in and promoted by this kind of presentation; whether in advertising, speeches, or whatever. The good news is that this disgust cuts both ways. Responsible citizens do not want this from Republicans or Democrats. I suggest to you that the first party to correct this conduct will benefit substantially. Again, focus on problems, solutions, and policies while staying clear of personal attacks on your opponents and others.
I greatly appreciate your love for and service to America. Given all that you have and are sacrificing and suffering in order to serve, you are definitely a blessing to our nation and world. Like millions of others, I am thankful to God that your life was spared in that awful attempted assassination.
I am convinced that, like Esther in Scripture (Esther 4:14), you are “called for such a time as this.” That is, a time when our country and world are in turmoil and seemingly beyond being able to regain even minimal stability, this is your time. Thank you for stepping up and standing strong.

Editor's Note: Karl Merritt is a Fayetteville citizen who served 21 years in the Navy. He is a published author, real estate agent, and pastor.
At Up & Coming Weekly, we don't always see eye to eye, but we do all agree how important it is to get out and vote. To find information about how to register to vote in North Carolina, visit https://vote.gov/register/north-carolina

Fayetteville Technical Community College has added a new course focused on training students to start their careers in the growing biotechnology industry.
FTCC offered its first BioWork: Process Technician course through the Corporate and Continuing Education department this spring.
The NC Biotechnology Center developed the BioWork program about 20 years ago as a way to develop the biotech workforce pipeline in the state.
The coursework is standardized so any community college offering the course would prepare students for entry-level positions in the industry. Most of the jobs are in biopharmaceuticals — the manufacturing of drugs — but some can be found in chemical manufacturing or biomanufacturing.
The course lasts about 8 weeks and covers the fundamentals of biomanufacturing, including general manufacturing practices and safety.
Rick Lawless, who taught the initial offering of the course at FTCC, said industry employers around the state have come to recognize the BioWork certificate as a valuable resume piece for potential employees.
“Since it’s been around for 20 years, a lot of the companies in the area — most of them up in the RTP but some in Sanford as well — are advertising entry-level, high school-plus positions with BioWork certificate preferred,” said Lawless, who worked in biotechnology for 35 years before becoming an instructor. “So this certificate means something to hiring managers because it is standardized.”
Lawless said the biotech industry is growing quickly, particularly in North Carolina, where companies are moving to areas in and around the Research Triangle Park.
“We’re looking to build the labor force because companies are coming in so fast that we can’t keep up,” Lawless said. “We’re doing a lot for awareness to get people interested, but also to sponsor them taking BioWork to teach them the fundamentals.”
One sponsorship that is likely to draw interest at FTCC is through the Military Outreach and Veterans Engagement program.
Funds from the grant program cover the cost of the class for military veterans, transitioning service members and military spouses.
Katie Williams, a military spouse and member of the initial course at FTCC, had the cost of her course tuition covered through MOVE.
Williams developed an interest in pharmaceutical development and research after working as a clinical research coordinator over vaccine trials during the COVID-19 pandemic.
When funding for the trials dried up, Williams was laid off.
“Getting laid off was heartbreaking because there were all these studies that I was interested in,” she said.
When Williams came across information about the BioWork program, she signed up, recognizing it as a related field that would put her back in a career providing necessary help to people.
“It’s still in the vein of my goal, which is figuring out what I can do for my community. How can I help?” she said.
FTCC’s next BioWork course offering begins Aug. 18 and runs through Oct. 17. Registration for the class can be completed through FTCC’s WebAdvisor Continuing Education portal at webadvisor.faytechcc.edu/WebAdvisor/WebAdvisor?TOKENIDX=7840123713&SS=1&APP=ST&CONSTITUENCY=WBCE. Search keywork “biowork.”
Prospective students from the military community should contact Rick Lawless at lawlessr@faytechcc.edu to ask about sponsorship through the MOVE program.

Loretta Jae Esthetics is celebrating one year of business in Fayetteville. To help commemorate the occasion, owner Lateifa Young isn’t just throwing a party for her business, she’s giving back with a back-to-school celebration for the kids.
Festivities start at 4 p.m. on Aug. 18 in the parking lot of the spa located at 402 Santa Fe Drive, Fayetteville. Kids will enjoy fresh off-the-grill hotdogs and hamburgers and fun giveaways, like teen facials and makeup vouchers, perfect for those upcoming special occasions during the school year.
Young has always loved looking pretty and she mastered the art of makeup and skin care early on. At first, she served as the family makeup artist, but with a little nudge, she decided to enroll in cosmetology school.
While she excelled, life had a side plan in store. Young took a break from school to take care of her family, a sacrifice she was more than happy to make. But a calling is a calling, and Young was destined to do what she loved: make women feel beautiful and teach them how to take care of their most precious and largest organ, their skin. A chance meeting with Montia Shardae, owner of Montia Shardae School of Esthetics put Young back on course.
“I started researching some of the schools [in the area]. I did Fayetteville Tech, I did a couple of private schools in Raleigh, and one other community college. But every time that I would call them to kind of get an idea of what was going on, they told me there was a waiting list or the school was packed and I couldn’t get in. And then I saw Montia post on Instagram that she had opened up a school and she doing enrollments. I was like this is my chance.’ So I contacted her, I went by the school and did a tour. And that was the day that really changed my life,” she said.
“I knew that's what I wanted to do, just having a conversation with Montia and her telling her story. I was like 'yeah this is the right place. This is where I’m going.' I paid my deposit that day and went home and told my mom. And she said, 'Lateifa that's it. This is what you’ve wanted to do your whole life. So why not go for it?' And that’s all the confirmation I needed.” Young’s mom is a huge part of her story and her strongest support system throughout the process. With a stretched budget, keeping up with her 9-5 was more vital than ever.
“It was a nine-month course. I went to work during the day and school at night. And my mom would help me with the boys back and forth. There were so many long days. It was not easy at all,” she said. “There were so many days I wanted to say, ‘oh no, I’m tired, I can’t do this anymore.’ And not to mention I was paying for it all out of pocket. That was difficult too. Keeping up with bills and children and study. It was a stressful time. But I would not change it for the world because it made it so much worthwhile.”
She credits her success and mastery of the business side of the industry to Shardae and the education she received at the school.
“She taught business classes, she helped us all get started with just thinking about our logo, our colors, and an idea of what we want our businesses to be. I started while I was in school. Just thinking about it about my name, my colors, my business, and for me, that was such a push because I had a name before but it didn’t resonate with me. When I came up with my name after that I was yeah this is it, this is something I can keep for the rest of my life and do other things not just esthetician business. I can do other things too.” Young said.
Loretta Jae Esthetics is by appointment only and offers a range of services for clients in a luxurious space fit for a queen. Services include facials (for men, women, and teens), waxing, makeup, and spa parties. One-on-one makeup tutorials and bridal party makeup packages and parties/tutorials are available as well.
Clients not only receive services but also a proper education on aftercare and taking care of and protecting their skin. To make sure clients are using the best products possible, there is a growing skincare line, Loretta Jae Skynn, available at the spa.
Young loves what she does and it is apparent in the way she speaks of her business and what she does for individuals.
“It has truly been rewarding for me because just to see the different transformations and people just coming back to me with confidence that they didn’t have before they started first going to me. Being an esthetician for me is more than just getting money or correcting skin. I friend my clients. It’s like therapy. I love my clients. It's more than just your booking. I want you to feel welcome. I want you to relax. I want my clients to take a self-care day and make them feel like they actually paid for a service, and it was valuable to them.” Young said.
Appointments can be booked online at https://www.lorettajae.com/s/appointments.

The Rock’n On the River concert series continues to serenade the summer at Campbellton Landing behind Deep Creek Outfitters. The next event in the series takes place Aug. 16 at 6 p.m. The concert is free and open to the public. There is a $10 fee for parking.
Reflections II Band will be the first band to take the stage followed by Rivermist at 8 p.m.
Reflections II has played Rock’n On the River in the past and is looking forward to it again. The band, a local favorite, plays all genres of music from classic rock, oldies, country, beach and party songs.
“We have a very diverse song list of hundreds of songs, medleys, and can even play Jazz/dinner music for events. While Reflections II Band is only a 3-piece band we sound like a 5-piece band thanks to a great sound system and modern technology,” said Mike Donald, a founder of the band.
Reflections II Band originally started out as Reflections Band in 1980 by Mike Donald and his late father Jim. They played together until 1999. Their last show in ’99 was for the US Army Golden Knights Parachute Demonstration team, and President George Bush was in attendance. Mike said it was a great honor for the band.
Mike brought the band back together again in 2006 because he missed playing live music.
“Several old friends (who knew me from the old band) and places suggested going by the name ‘Reflections II Band’ so people would know who the band was,” Mike said.
The rest is Reflections history. Mike and the band have been playing ever since, and tour all over the country.
Rivermist is a long-time staple of the Fayetteville community. Voted “Best Local Band” in the Cumberland County area by Up & Coming Weekly readers 8 years in a row, Rivermist has built up a reputation in the area for being a must-see band. They have been voted as the Carolina Country Music Association Vocal Group of the Year 2021, nominated for "Rising Star" by the Carolina Beach Music Academy in 2022, voted CBMA "Rising Star" in 2023 and nominated for "Best Video" (Right Place Right Time) in 2023.
Greg Adair is the drummer for Rivermist and the brains behind Rock’n On The River. Adair wanted to give the community a concert experience, and he has fulfilled this goal by helping with several concert series in the Fayetteville area, including the Karen Chandler Trust Beach Music Festival.
“There ain’t no party like a Rivermist Party, ‘cuz a Rivermist party don’t stop!”
The next Rock’n On the River concert, held Sept. 20, will be the last of the season, so be sure to get down to Campbellton Landing to get a summer concert fix in before the end of the concert season.

(Top Photo: Rivermist.  Photo courtesy of Rivermist.  Bottom Photo: Reflections II Band.  Photo courtesy of Mike Donald)