McCormick Farms in Spring Lake will transform into a battleground of endurance as thousands of athletes prepare to tackle the 2025 Fayetteville Spartan Trifecta Weekend, taking place May 3–4. Hosted by DistiNCtly Fayetteville, the event will draw competitors from across the country eager to test their limits on one of the most challenging courses in the Spartan Race series.
The venue, located just outside Fort Bragg, spans more than 1,000 acres of diverse and unforgiving terrain. Known for its steep hills, riverbanks, dense forests, and a dramatic 200-foot-deep quarry, McCormick Farms has earned a reputation as a favorite among Spartan staff and veteran racers. The course will not only test strength and endurance, but also each athlete’s technical ability and mental toughness.
Spartan will offer a full slate of races during the weekend, including the Sprint (5K/20 obstacles), Super (10K/25 obstacles), Beast (21K/30 obstacles), and Ultra (50K/60+ obstacles), along with a Kids Race and the ultimate challenge: the Trifecta. Athletes aiming for the Trifecta will need to complete three races over the course of the weekend to earn a special wedge medal piece—a symbol of stamina, resilience, and grit.
Finishers will walk away with more than just mud-caked memories. Each participant will receive a unique Spartan finisher medal, a Trifecta medal wedge piece, an event T-shirt, a free beverage, and a craft non-alcoholic brew from Athletic Brewing Company. But for many, the real reward will be the pride and bragging rights earned by conquering the course.
The event will feature a vibrant Festival Area, where spectators and racers can enjoy food trucks, merchandise vendors, music, and family-friendly activities. The festive atmosphere will serve as a gathering place to celebrate victories and support fellow racers.
Spartan organizers anticipate a strong turnout from the local military community, given the race’s close proximity to Fort Bragg. The presence of service members and veterans often brings an added spirit of camaraderie, discipline, and inspiration to the event.
Several factors are expected to shape the success of this year’s Trifecta Weekend. The natural terrain of McCormick Farms offers a uniquely demanding and scenic challenge. The military culture of the area will likely foster teamwork and mental toughness among participants. Extensive planning and logistics will be required to convert the working farm into a full-scale race venue and festival ground. Safety measures, including medical support and strategically placed aid stations, will ensure the well-being of all participants. Finally, the support from DistiNCtly Fayetteville will enhance the overall experience by connecting the event to the region’s broader tourism and hospitality offerings.
Whether tackling a 5K Sprint or attempting the full Trifecta, racers will soon find themselves face-to-face with a course designed to challenge every fiber of their being. When the dust settles and the medals are earned, the stories of perseverance and strength will begin—etched in mud, sweat, and glory.
To register or learn more, visit: https://race.spartan.com/en/races/fayetteville-north-carolina

You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think," — Winnie the Pooh to Christopher Robin, written by A.A. Milne
The Third Annual Children’s Mental Health and Wellness Fair is sponsored by the Cumberland County School System. The event will take place on May 3 at Festival Park from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Activities include a one-mile walk for suicide prevention, community resources, live fitness presentations, games, tech prizes, freebies, food trucks and a bike rodeo. No pets are allowed at the event. Admission is free and open to the public. For more information, visit the Cumberland County Schools website at https://www.ccs.k12.nc.us.
May 2025 is Mental Health Awareness Month. The theme for 2025 is Turn Awareness into Action. The Green Ribbon is the international symbol of Mental Health Awareness. Mental Health America has sponsored and founded May Mental Health Awareness Month in 1949. Mental Health America works to close the mental health equity gap while increasing nationwide awareness. The mission is the advancement of mental health and well-being of all people living in the United States, through public research, advocacy, policy, and direct service. The strategic plan remains focused on the health and well-being of future generations, on systemic reforms and on embracing new frontiers of science, according to the National Council for Wellbeing, 2025, Mental Health America.
Mental Health challenges are more than adolescents feeling blue. It affects many areas of the teen’s life. Mental Health problems in our youth go hand and hand with other behavioral risks such as substance misuse, experiencing violence, and sexual behaviors.
The statistics are notable; globally, one in seven young persons from the ages of 10 to 19 experience a mental health disorder; in the United States in 2023, 20.3 percent of adolescents aged 12 to 17 experienced a behavioral health challenge. Fifty-two percent of lifelong experiences with mental challenges begin at fourteen. Twenty percent have considered committing suicide, and forty percent experience feelings of hopelessness, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
According to Bright Path Health, firearm-related death rates have increased among adolescents in North Carolina by 23.1 percent from 2020 to 2021. In 2022, 11 percent of North Carolina children experienced anxiety or depression. This is up 7.6 percent from 2016. In 2019, suicide was the leading cause of death in North Carolina in the age group 10 to 17.
A study by the National Institute of Health estimated child and adolescent mental health disorders cost $247 billion annually, with additional external costs linked to delinquent behaviors, poorer academic outcomes, substance misuse and crime in adulthood, according to the National Institute of Health.
Dr. Natasha Scott, Executive Director of Cumberland County School Student Services, introduced the mental health and wellness fair to the district two years ago as a fresh way to raise awareness about an issue vital to the lives of students and their families.
“The event really needed to be a fun event that would get people active and moving while sharing resources people need. When you are active and being physical, it produces endorphins, which are chemicals in your brain that produce positive feelings,” Scott said.
Jump into Mental Health and Wellness at the Third Annual Children’s Mental Health and Wellness Fair sponsored by Cumberland County School System on May 3 at Festival Park.

Fayetteville's Really Really Free Market is a unique community gathering where everything is freely given and freely received. The event is centered around the concept of gift economics, meaning that nothing is for sale—everything is free! Participants are encouraged to bring items they no longer need and take items that others have brought. This creates a cycle of sharing and generosity that strengthens community bonds.
At the RRFM, attendees can find a variety of items, including clothes, household goods, plants, and even food. It's a space where people can share their skills, talents, and friendship, all while promoting sustainability and reducing waste.
Fayetteville Freedom for All, the organization behind the RRFM, is dedicated to advocating for human rights and equity. Their mission is to educate, inspire, and recruit the next generation of activists and allies to fight for a future where everyone has access to essential resources like healthcare, housing, a living wage, clean water and air, equal justice, bodily autonomy, fully-funded public education, and marriage equality.
Through events like the RRFM, Fayetteville Freedom for All aims to create systemic and structural change by centering impacted community members and partnering with local and state organizations, non-profits, mutual aid groups, workers’ unions, and like-minded politicians in Cumberland County and
North Carolina.
How to Participate in the Event
Participating in Fayetteville's Really Really Free Market is simple. The event will be held on Saturday, May 3, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Cross Creek Linear Park, located at 324 Ray Ave, across from Festival Park.
To join in, bring items you think someone else might need or enjoy. These can range from clothes and household items to plants and food. If you are bringing items that need repairs, please leave a note indicating so. Remember, the goal is to share usable items and create a positive experience for everyone.
Tips for a Successful Market Day
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience at the RRFM, here are a few tips:
1. Be respectful of other people's space when they set items down. This helps maintain an organized and welcoming environment.
2. Clearly mark any items that are not meant to be taken yet, such as those needing repairs.
3. Plan ahead for any items that are not taken by the end of the event. You can arrange to retrieve them, donate them, or dispose of them responsibly. Local thrift shops are a great option for donations.
4. Avoid bringing items that are essentially trash. The aim is to share usable goods and avoid creating unnecessary waste.
By participating in Fayetteville's Really Really Free Market, you are joining a movement that promotes community cohesion, sustainability, and social equity. This event is more than just a market; it's a demonstration of what can be achieved when people come together with a shared purpose of mutual aid and support.
Fayetteville Freedom for All encourages everyone to get involved—not only in this event but in their broader mission of advocating for human rights and systemic change. Together, we can build a future where everyone has access to the resources they need to thrive. To learn more about getting involved, visit https://www.facebook.com/FayettevilleFreedomForAll.

"You are one of us now, didn't you know that? You are one of the crew. We're all in the same boat." — Roald Dahl, James and the Giant Peach
Summer camp is the iconic symbol of summer. It's where lifelong friends are made and imaginations are inspired. It fosters a community for youth who share the same interest and sparks new passions. The Gilbert Theater is hosting its annual summer camp for those interested in learning about the theater and putting on a full production from sets to lights to acting. The camp is a fully immersive experience ending with the camp production of James and the Giant Peach.
Camp runs from July 14 to July 26, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Gilbert Theater located at 116 Green Street (second floor) and is open to children ages 7-11 and 12-18. The curriculum will differ depending on the age group. Tuition is $250 before the end of April and $300 starting May 1 ($25 discount for each additional sibling). Summer camp t-shirts and 2 show tickets are included in
camp tuition.
At the end of the 2-week session, camp will conclude with 2 performances of James and the Giant Peach. The show is open to the public and tickets will be available at the box office. To register, call the Gilbert Theater at 910-678-7186 or online at https://ci.ovationtix.com/36002/production/1230560?performanceId=11604850.
Stepping in to lead the campers through their theater journey is local thespian and former theater arts teacher, Claudia Warga-Dean. A Gilbert veteran, she has worked with the theater for 17 years, with her most recent production being Misery as Sheriff Buster. Not only will she be facilitating the summer camp, but she is also taking on a more permanent role at the theater as Education Director.
“I am very grateful to Matt and the board for the opportunity. Theatre education is a passion of mine, and I can’t wait to jump in! I will be tag-teaming with the wonderful Malissa Borden, which is great. I am a big fan of hers,” she said.
Warga-Dean's time at Gray’s Creek High School and on stage make her the perfect fit for this community-centered program.
Warga-Dean is excited about this year’s camp and its expansion to two weeks.
“Adding an extra week allows us to spend more time working with students by inspiring and challenging them to reach their full performance potential. Having that second week allows students to get comfortable and learn how the Gilbert Theater works. We definitely advocate a welcoming space for kids of all backgrounds,” she said.
“The Gilbert Theater has been my home for 23 years. I started here while I was still in high school. The Gilbert not only educated me on theatre and gave me opportunities, but it allowed me to be a part of the theatre community here, which has enriched my life greatly… we are one of a few theatres that offer summer camps! And we don’t mind saying that! We support them all because they have supported us! So I say check them all out! My daughter is doing the Gilbert Summer Camp and the CFRT summer camp. The Gilbert, CFRT, and Sweet Tea Shakespeare all offer great opportunities to school-age children to immerse themselves in creativity and to make loads of friends. Between all three theatres, your kids will have a world of support and hands-on training. Even if theatre is just a hobby for them, their confidence will grow immensely.”
For more information about the Gilbert Theater, volunteer opportunities, education, or tickets to upcoming shows, visit online at https://www.gilberttheater.com/.

Tuesday, April 15 marked a historic milestone for Methodist University − and for the future of healthcare in Southeastern North Carolina − as leaders from Methodist University and Cape Fear Valley Health gathered with elected officials, supporters, faculty, staff, doctors, nurses, and other community members to celebrate the topping-off ceremony for the Methodist University Cape Fear Valley Health School of Medicine.
With the ceremonial “final beam” − measuring 27 feet long, 24 inches tall, and weighing 1,500 pounds − covered in signatures, hoisted into place, and a celebratory helicopter flyover drawing eyes skyward, the long-anticipated vision of a medical school in Fayetteville took a very visible step forward.
The moment represents a symbolic turning point in the construction of the $60-million, state-of-the-art facility, which is set to open in 2026 pending accreditation approval from the Liaison Committee on Medical Education.
Designed to help address the region’s longstanding physician shortage, the school will train the next generation of healthcare professionals with a focus on community-based care and innovation.
“Access to great healthcare is a fundamental human right − you shouldn’t have to travel hours to receive it,” said Michael Nagowski, CEO of Cape Fear Valley Health. “For too long, Southeastern North Carolina has struggled with physician shortages. This partnership with Methodist University was the perfect match. Methodist University couldn’t have done this without us, and we couldn’t have done it without MU. It’s a true community effort.”
As the crowd gathered on-site, the excitement was obvious − a testament to what this building represents not just for Methodist University, but for the thousands of lives it will touch in the decades to come.
“Our mission at Methodist University has always been rooted in service, and we’ve been deeply involved in healthcare education for more than 25 years through programs like Physician Assistant Studies, Nursing, Physical and Occupational Therapy, and more,” said Dr. Stanley T. Wearden, president of Methodist University. “The School of Medicine is the next logical step − one that raises our visibility and elevates us to a new level as an institution.”
The School of Medicine stands as a bold extension of Methodist University’s mission to serve and lead with purpose. With construction well underway, the facility is designed to include advanced simulation labs, modern classrooms, and collaborative learning spaces. It will reflect the values that define MU: innovation, compassion, and a commitment to service.
“If all goes well with accreditation, we hope to welcome our first class of students in July of 2026,” said Dr. Hershey Bell, founding dean of the School of Medicine. “The inaugural class is expected to include 64 students, a number determined by the clinical capacity within the Cape Fear Valley Health system to ensure each student receives an ideal clinical education.”
“Our curriculum is specifically designed to prepare students to understand and address the health needs of this region,” said Bell. “That means learning about the illnesses most prevalent here, the barriers to care, and the social issues that impact health outcomes.”
From the very beginning, this project has been about more than just bricks and mortar − it’s about purpose. For more on the School of Medicine, please visit methodist.edu/medicine. For more on Methodist University's Health Sciences programs, please visit methodist.edu/health-sciences.

(Photo: The final beam in the School of Medicine building at the Cape Fear Valley Health campus is placed during a "topping off" ceremony, April 15. Photo courtesy of Methodist University)

The costs for building Cumberland County’s downtown Crown Event Center could exceed the $145 million budgeted for the project, so the county’s Board of Commissioners is seeking a new construction estimate, Commissioners Chair Kirk deViere announced on Monday.
And the county has hired the DavisKane architecture firm of Raleigh, deViere said, to see what it would cost to rehabilitate and modernize the old Crown Arena and Crown Theatre on U.S. 301 — the facilities that the 3,000-seat Event Center performing arts and meeting facility is supposed to replace.
DeViere announced these plans after the commissioners met in a behind-closed-doors session for about 3 hours and 25 minutes. This followed previous closed-to-the-public meetings last week for discussion on the Event Center. The commissioners’ vote to exclude the public from their Monday deliberations was 6-1, with Commissioner Glenn Adams voting against going into secret session.
In early March, construction of the Event Center was paused 30 days so that lawyer J. Scott Flowers of Fayetteville could investigate a $1.9 million architect’s fee from the EwingCole firm. After receiving what deViere said was a 1,000-plus page report on the fee, the commissioners voted April 7 to lift the pause on the project.
County Attorney Rick Moorefield told CityView by email last week that the 1,000-page Flowers report is considered to be an attorney work product and is not a public record, meaning members of the general public won’t be allowed to read it or get a copy. “When the legal matter it was prepared for is resolved, it will become available,” Moorefield said.
Site preparation for the Event Center, on Gillespie Street on a parking lot in front of the County Courthouse, began in October.
The next phase is the construction of the building, deViere said. Before the county starts that phase, it is seeking updates on the cost and how long it will take to complete. Plans had been to finish the Event Center in April 2027.
DeViere estimated information on new costs and new completion dates will come back in 30 to 60 days.
Further, deViere said, the commissioners received an update on the financing plan to pay for the Event Center.
“As you can imagine, with what’s happening across the nation right now and what’s happening with the construction costs, we wanted to have a better understanding with a couple scenarios of what are — what the financing package would sustain,” he said. “And we got some good feedback on that as well.
“So we wanted to clearly understand, if the Crown Event Center is built downtown, that the financing model that was put in place previously sustains any expected increase in cost, and we were satisfied with that.”
With that and a new estimate for the next phase of construction, “that will give us a total updated cost,” he said.
The 4,500-to-5,000 seat Crown Arena and the 2,400-seat Crown Theatre opened in the late 1960s. They used to be known as the Cumberland County Memorial Arena and Auditorium. The county began considering around 2015 whether to rehabilitate or update the facilities when it settled an Americans With Disabilities Act lawsuit from a Fayetteville woman who used a wheelchair. The woman sued in 2014 because she had difficulty getting around and using the properties in her wheelchair.
DeViere said there has not been an assessment of upgrading the Arena and Theatre since 2015. So now the county hired DavisKane to look into that.
Does this mean the commissioners are considering canceling the Event Center and instead will modernize the Crown Arena and Crown Theatre?
“We are asking for an updated cost to modernize and renovate the theater and the arena. Nothing more, nothing less,” deViere said. “When you look at all the information that’s been provided over three years — from community input, to parking studies, to all these things — the one piece of data point that wasn’t there except from 2015, was an updated renovation and modernization for that.”
Members of the public and press have asked about renovating the old facilities, he said, “and we feel that it’s a responsible action by the board to have that number [of the estimated cost].”

At least 50 people who were staying at the emergency homeless shelter run by the Salvation Army in downtown Fayetteville were told to leave upon waking up Tuesday morning, as the shelter would be closed immediately and indefinitely.
The Salvation Army shared the news in a press release on Tuesday, citing a lack of funding to support its operations at the Pathway to Hope shelter, located at 245 Alexander St.
“We have no funding partners, and we cannot continue to offer shelter without funding,” said Aaron Goldfarb of The Salvation Army of the Sandhills Region. “This difficult decision weighs heavily on all of us as we understand the vital role this shelter plays in our community.”
Fifty to sixty individuals were discharged from the shelter Tuesday morning, according to Assistant County Manager Heather Skeens, who shared the news at a Cumberland-Fayetteville Opioid Response Team meeting on Tuesday. Residents of the shelter were taken to the Day Resource Center following the Salvation Army’s closure Tuesday morning. Staffers of Coordinated Entry, a referral service that helps unhoused individuals find permanent housing, were stationed at the center on South King Street to assist those discharged from the shelter.
“We have rerouted Coordinated Entry staff over to the Day Resource Center to try to assist those individuals,” Skeens said. “They are offering transportation to the Salvation Army in Raleigh for those individuals who want to go to that shelter.”
The shelter’s closing is especially significant because it was one of the largest homeless shelters in Cumberland County and the primary emergency shelter for people to get quick access to a bed. While the other shelters in the county cater to specific groups of people, the Salvation Army shelter accepted families, as well as single men and single women. The 2024 Point in Time count located 374 people experiencing homelessness in the county, though determining the exact number of individuals is difficult. The real number is likely much higher as the Fayetteville-Cumberland County Continuum of Care provided services to 800 individuals between fall of 2022 and 2023.
Local government officials expressed concern about Pathway to Hope’s sudden closure.
“We are deeply concerned about the Salvation Army’s announcement regarding the immediate closure of the emergency shelter in Fayetteville,” said Kirk deViere, chair of the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners, in a statement provided to CityView. “This shelter has been a vital resource for our most vulnerable residents, and its closure creates a gap in our community’s safety net. We recognize the critical importance of emergency shelters in our region and will work with the Salvation Army and alongside community partners to address this vital need.”
Pathway to Hope includes a year-round temporary shelter. Pathway to Hope was also used by the county as a “White Flag” shelter for people experiencing homelessness during freezing nights. A White Flag shelter is a heated space for unsheltered people to escape dangerously cold temperatures.
The organization has faced challenges in the last year around its White Flag program. In November, as freezing temperatures ramped up, the Salvation Army of the Sandhills announced it would no longer be able to serve as a White Flag shelter for Cumberland County.
The Salvation Army said a “lack of funding partners” drove its decision to close its doors Tuesday.
“The Salvation Army has been operating at a deficit for months, with no hope of new funding for the shelter,” the press release states.
At the end of last year, however, the City of Fayetteville had offered $50,000 through a proposed city contract to support continued White Flag nights there, which continued throughout winter 2024. According to Loren Bymer, the city’s marketing and communications director, the city had also provided information about available funding sources to the Salvation Army.
“The City educated the Salvation Army on potential funding sources available to apply for and provided assistance as requested,” Bymer said in an email to CityView.
What will happen to those who were staying in the shelter?
Kevin, a man who had been staying at the shelter for the past month, told CityView he and other occupants were informed of the plans to close the shelter early Tuesday morning, and told they had until 9 a.m. to pack up their belongings. He said he was returning from work to change his clothes when he was informed of the evictions.
Kevin said staff did not initially provide a reason for dislodging the residents.
“But they didn’t give no explanation or nothing, just said everybody gotta be packed up by 9,” he told CityView.
When Kevin pressed a shelter manager for a reason, he said the manager told him “funding was gone” and there was a shortage of employees. Like other single men and women staying at the shelter, Kevin was not provided with immediate accommodations and was directed to Coordinated Entry.
“I’m out here searching for another place,” Kevin said. “I don’t got nowhere to go, and hopefully I won’t lose my job because I got to find a bed to stay in.”
The Salvation Army declined to comment beyond what was available in the press release. Jamie Goldfarb of the Salvation Army of the Sandhills told CityView she did not immediately recall how many individuals were staying at the shelter Tuesday morning. The press release states that 26 single men and women were staying there, in addition to several families.
Several nonprofit organizations that work with the homeless community, as well as local governments, said they were informed of the closure either late Monday night or Tuesday morning.
Debbie Brown, chair of the CoC’s board of directors, said her program had been informed of the shelter’s closing but could not provide additional information to CityView. CoC oversees the Coordinated Entry program. The Salvation Army said it had “secured alternative housing arrangements” for the families who were staying at the shelter. The nonprofit organization also said it was working with the CoC to find housing for the 26 single men and women who were staying at the shelter.
Several local nonprofits and individuals who support people experiencing homelessness took to social media, offering assistance in the wake of the closure. The City of Fayetteville also said it is working to support the CoC in responding to the shelter’s closing.
“Recognizing the critical role the Salvation Army played in serving vulnerable populations [in] our community, city officials have been working alongside other leaders to ensure that displaced residents receive essential services,” Bymer said. “Collaborative efforts with the CoC and County include coordinating with TruVine Ministry, Manna Church, and Cornerstone Empowerment Center for at-risk individuals.
“By proactively combining resources and expertise, Fayetteville aims to support Cumberland County and the community’s response to bridge the gap left by the Salvation Army’s closure and maintain a safety net that upholds the community’s well-being.”

Once upon a time, 57 years ago, there was a year called 1968. It was a rowdy year filled with more stuff than you can shake a stick at. The weekly Life magazine chronicled said events. As Petula would say: “It was a sign o’ the times.”
My Life special 1968 Year in Review edition summarized the good, bad, and the ugly happenings, which I will share with both my readers today.
The most interesting things were the ads, which clearly were written by Don Draper.
We shall get to the ads shortly, but first, the mandatory and mercifully brief chronological recitation of 1968’s world events. The year began with North Koreans capturing the USS Pueblo. Vietnam was in full bore with the iconic photo of the Saigon police chief executing a Viet Cong.
LBJ announced he would not run for re-election. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated in Memphis. Robert F. Kennedy was assassinated in Los Angeles. Famine came to Biafra. Nixon and Humphrey were nominated for President. (Trigger warning: Nixon won.)
Jackie Kennedy married the Billionaire Shipping Magnate and Human Toad Hybrid Aristotle Onassis. The Apollo astronauts circled the moon on Christmas Eve. The Pueblo hostages were released. That is all.
On to the good stuff: the ads. Anacin invented the cure for the “Housewife Headache,” which was brought on “when Boredom and Emotional Fatigue” hits the little lady. It was caused by “making beds, getting meals, acting as the family chauffeur- having to do the same dull, tiresome work day after day is a mild form of torture.”
Take 2 Anacin tablets and “feel better all over with a brighter outlook.” Or have 4 glasses of wine with lunch.
Cigarette ads were fun. Lark cigarettes invented the “Gas Trap Filter,” which you were directed to tell someone you like about the filter. The Marlboro Man was out west doing cowboy things on Broke Back Mountain, where you could come to where the flavor is.
Pall Mall invited you to come to “the cool part of the forest where a lady wearing a green bikini was waiting with a pack of Menthol filter 100s, which were extra long at both ends.” Tareyton smokers would rather fight than switch, wearing a black eye to prove it.
The power companies were pushing Gold Medallion Homes, “where everything is electric, including the heat.” In addition to a larger electric bill, you got a Gold Medallion plaque to nail to your house to prove you were susceptible to advertising.
Personal hygiene was a primary concern to humans and fish. Ol’ Skipper Fish Attractor balm announced: “Fish think you stink.” Using Ol’ Skipper would “counteract human and tackle box odors and would stimulate and excite fish to feed.”
Sounds like fish Viagra. Not sure I would want to be around an excited, stimulated fish, but that is a personal choice. Mitchum’s Anti-Perspirant helped a sweaty lady who had “despaired of effective help” for her drippy underarms. For only $3, you could get a 90-day supply guaranteeing dryness. DERMA-SOFT home medication had a personal testimonial from a happy customer who had been “tortured 9 years by two corns and a wart, but now they are gone.”
Two Corns and a Wart sounds like a Heavy Metal band. It remains unclear if DERMA-SOFT could handle 3 corns and 2 warts.
Have a cold? Contac not only had 600 tiny time pills in each capsule but came with a poem from a winsome lady person who said: “Button up your overcoat/ When the wind is free/ Take Contac for your cold/ You belong to me/ Roger.”
Roger better do as he is told. The lady person appeared to brook no rebellion.
The new Toyota Corona came with nylon carpeting, vinyl upholstery, fully reclining bucket seats, synchromesh transmission, backup lights, and a cigarette lighter!!! Who could ask for anything more?
The issue closed out with 1968’s winners and losers. Denny McLain of the Detroit Tigers won over 30 games. Andy Warhol “lives after a kooky feminist tried to zap him with her .32.”
Tiny Tim was America’s leading male vocalist. Janice Joplin was chosen as the year’s female vocalist for “her raspy songs she belted, then belted bourbon by the bottle.” OJ Simpson “may be the best college running back ever. His name will come up first in the pro draft where it will be drawn by the last place team. Look for OJ Simpson when you go to Buffalo.”
OJ went on to be known for other things.
Have we learned anything today? Not much, other than 1968 was 57 years ago.

(Illustration by Pitt Dickey)

North Carolina’s motto is a Latin phrase: Esse quam videri. Popularized by the ancient Roman statesman and philosopher Marcus Tullius Cicero, who likely first read the Greek version from Plato and Aeschylus, the phrase means “to be rather than to seem.”
The General Assembly adopted it as our official state motto in 1893. Ever since then, North Carolinians have disputed whether we’ve ever really lived up to it, that we have truly been rather than just seemed.
Guess what? That makes North Carolina just like every other country, state, city, or club that espouses high ideals and then argues about them.
What sets our state apart politically isn’t a motto, or arguments about a motto, or even the specific issues our state and local leaders are currently trying to tackle. What truly makes North Carolina distinctive are several longstanding practices — some formal rules, others informal traditions — that shape our public policy debates.
One of them is how our state constitution apportions the coercive power of government. All states have legislative, executive, and judicial branches. But North Carolina’s legislative branch is one of the strongest in the country. It possesses fully the power to make laws and policies in our state. When executive officers or agencies issue rules and make decisions, they do so in most cases only because the legislature has specifically granted them the power to do so. That means lawmakers can also take it back.
Correspondingly, our executive branch is one of the weakest, its responsibilities distributed across 10 independently elected officers and our governor enjoying comparatively limited powers of appointment and veto. Unlike other states, North Carolina gives its governors no formal control over our public institutions of higher education. That power is specifically awarded to the General Assembly, like it or not.
All states also apportion power between localities and a central government. In North Carolina, however, localities don’t have home rule. They are legislative creations and have only the powers delegated to them by the General Assembly, which the latter is free to revise.
Here’s a second distinguishing characteristic, related to the first but extending beyond our constitutional structure: North Carolina governs and funds roads and schools primarily at the state level, not the local level.
Most states have county (or parish) road systems. We don’t. Even our city streets are technically state roads administered by localities. As for K-12 education, while we have elected school boards with the power to hire district superintendents and make some policy choices, the most important actors are the General Assembly and the State Board of Education.
So when you read that North Carolina has one of the highest gas taxes in the United States, that’s just another way of saying our county taxes are relatively low (because they don’t fund county roads). And on a per-pupil basis, our state spends more than twice as much on schools as counties do. Nationally, the two funding sources tend to be roughly comparable.
A third policy difference between North Carolina and most other states involves public finance. For nearly a century, it has been our common practice to borrow relatively little and pay for public assets with cash. According to the latest Facts & Figures report from the Tax Foundation, North Carolina ranks 48th in state and local debt, at $4,314 per person.
Only Idaho ($1,915) and Wyoming ($3,913) have lower debt burdens than we do. Neighboring Tennessee ($6,312), South Carolina ($7,254), and Virginia ($9,236) borrow quite a bit more, although none is quite in the league of a California ($14,273) or New York ($17,846).
Now, you and I might argue about whether North Carolina ought to strengthen the hand of the governor, or give localities more responsibility for roads and schools, or finance more infrastructure with debt. Still, productive argument requires some common definitions and at least some shared understanding of the facts.
Our state doesn’t just appear to be distinctive. It really is. Esse quam videri, indeed.

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).

Spring is upon us, the flowers are blooming, the weather is warmer and the calendar is filling up with fun and creative events all over the city. Sista Soul Fest NC is hosting its annual fundraiser, Say it LOUD! NC: The Creative Art Gala and Auction on Saturday, April 26 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the District 26 Studios located at 991 Old McPherson Church Rd. It’s the perfect opportunity for artists, art enthusiasts, and collectors to put on their best cocktail attire to convene in support of local talent and help Sister Soul Fest raise money for upcoming community events.
Participating artists have been encouraged to create art representative of their community and “to say something meaningful, say it loud, and say it proud.” Say it LOUD! will feature a variety of artists and art mediums, including paintings, videography, photography, and fashion design. Guests will be treated to light hors d’oeuvres, complimentary champagne, and live performances while they mingle with showcasing artists and bid on their favorite pieces to take home at the end of the evening. General admission is $40, and students can purchase at a discounted rate of $20. Tickets can be purchased online at https://www.sistasoulfest.com/say-it-loud.
Ayreka Plowden, event manager, director of the organization NC Chapter, and owner of Aje Noire Creations/Pressure Applied Management, is excited about this year’s event and the opportunities for growth for future events. As an avid supporter of the arts and community engagement, Plowden is hopeful this event will provide artists with a platform to showcase their art, build a buyer portfolio, and network with like-minded individuals.
“Say it LOUD! is an annual fundraiser to fund Sista Soul Fest, but it is also an opportunity to support local artists. It was brought to both me and the founder, Miss Loretta, whenever we were looking at different artwork. She [said] 'Ayreka, you know there are so many artists, especially black artists here, but they don’t get that much push.' She said she wanted to do an art gala, and I said, ‘let's go.’ I wanted to do it in my city. We have so many artists and art-based things, whether it’s music, whether it’s individual art or poetry, all of them are killing it. We have so much to offer and I feel as if we need to have a lot of different avenues. I’ve heard a lot that artists don’t feel appreciated enough. And I wanted to let this be an opportunity for them to be seen, get their artwork out there, possibly meet some collectors of their art, and get dressed up because who doesn’t like to get dressed up? And it’s for a good cause, which is funding productions by Sista Soul Fest. So this is a [great] opportunity,” Plowden said.
Sista Soul Fest is a nonprofit founded in Des Moines in 2020 by Loretta Torrell. Torrell has successfully run a festival that creates a space for women, especially women of color, to offer/sell and display their talents, gifts, and businesses. The festival not only highlights black women-owned businesses, products, and art but also hosts an annual “We See You Sis” Awards, recognizing the best and brightest in the community. In 2022, the organization expanded to North Carolina under the direction of Plowden and hosted its first Sista Soul Fest in 2024. While the organization has had a slow start in the community, Plowden is confident that residents will see the value in pouring back into the women, especially black women, who are the pulse of this city.
“Sista Soul Fest’s main purpose is to help build a community of women that is going to help build and build our communities because, of course, we always know that when women put their hands on something, it’s going to get done. We are a moving force behind almost everything. It’s a [festival] that helps bring awareness to women-owned businesses, all women, but it does have a special niche for African American women, brown women, and women of color. Because sometimes we are often underrepresented.”
For more information, visit the Sista Soul Fest website at https://www.sistasoulfest.com/say-it-loud.

(Graphic courtesy of Say it LOUD! Facebook page)

Something brand new is coming to Fayetteville State University. On April 24-26, the Theatre Department of FSU will preview the world premiere production of Be a Wolf, an original play written by Merlyn Q. Sell.
"Be A Wolf is a darkly comedic, unsettlingly playful exploration of the stories we tell ourselves to feel safe—and what happens when we stop believing them,” according to uncfsu.edu.
Be a Wolf is an original play that was written especially for the theatre students at Fayetteville State University. Taking inspiration from the classic tale of Beowulf, it tells the story of a group of people who are facing the threat of a monster at the door, with victims of the monster becoming part of the monster. According to Theatre Professor and producer of Be a Wolf, Jeremy Fiebig, it is dramatic and suspenseful, but with comedic, even irreverent elements, as well. He says it is a commentary on what the monsters in our lives are and how we can sometimes become part of the very monsters that we fear.
The production involves students in every role: from actor to assistant director, from prop and costume design to stage management; students have their hands in every facet of the production. They receive leadership and support from Theatre faculty, Fiebig as well as Dave Griffie, but the intention is for the production to be almost entirely in the hands of the students.
This production has a few unique elements compared to other productions presented by FSU Theatre. One is that the three performances in April will each take place at a different venue: April 24, the show will be on FSU’s campus in Butler Theatre; at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church on April 25; and at Capitol Encore Academy High School on April 26.
Their entire set-up has to be mobile, and they have to be able to set everything up in 15 minutes or less, then take it all down in the same timeframe. Why is that, one may ask? Because FSU is taking this show on the road, or more accurately, “across the pond.”
The three performances in Fayetteville are preview performances of the play that FSU Theatre will perform in the summer of 2025 at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland. The Fringe Festival is a celebration of all things art and culture. For almost 80 years, the Fringe Festival has invited the world to come share its art: “From big names in the world of entertainment to unknown artists looking to build their careers, the festival spans every genre of live performance, including theatre, comedy, dance, physical theatre, circus, cabaret, children's shows, musicals, opera, music, spoken word, exhibitions and events.” (from edfringe.com)
From the end of July through mid-August, 12 FSU Theatre students-10 actors, plus 2 crew- will travel to Scotland and perform Be a Wolf all throughout Edinburgh. This is a first for FSU Theatre, “an opportunity for FSU and the Fayetteville community to export something to the international stage,” explains Fiebig.
It is a unique experience and a tremendous opportunity for these budding artists to see and be seen by international creatives, as they perform at one of the biggest and most prominent performance festivals in the world.
As one might imagine, this is a costly venture; not only for a group of college students to travel internationally, but also to take all the elements for a play with them. While the overall travel costs have been arranged through other forms of fundraising, proceeds from the April performances will help to defray the cost of food, events, and other experiences while in Scotland. Admission to all three performances is “pay-what-you-can” and will be paid at the door (no advance ticket sales); any and all money paid will go to help the FSU Theatre group have an incredible experience at the Fringe Festival.
For many of the students, it will be their first time travelling outside of the US, and outside of North Carolina for some. International travel is an invaluable experience for anyone, but for a student learning their craft in theatre, the value of performing at a prestigious international festival cannot be overstated.
It is not every day that we in Fayetteville have the opportunity to see the world premiere of a play, while at the same time lending support to emerging artists. But that is exactly what the Fayetteville State University Theatre production of Be a Wolf represents. Don’t miss this unique opportunity on April 24 at Butler Theatre, April 25 at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, and April 26 at Capitol Encore Academy High School.

Adulthood is something we all prepare for our whole lives. It’s marked with greater responsibility, financially and emotionally, the stress of jobs, careers, mortgages, marriages, and, for some, children. The days of the week blend, and the weekend seems like a blur of fitting in self-care while simultaneously trying to work through the house to-do list. The social circles become smaller and the experience of making friends becomes foreign. Making friends as an adult comes with its own set of challenges and anxiety. Hoping to change that and help women in Fayetteville meet new friends is a new event, The Social Bloom: A Speed-Friending Experience. Join other women for an evening of meaningful conversations, connection, and intentionality on Saturday, April 26, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Blissful Alchemist, located at 414 Ray Ave.. A cute twist on popular speed-dating, speed-friending follows the same concept. Blissful Alchemist will provide a comfy and inviting atmosphere for participants, there will be music and light refreshments. Each table will have conversation starters and periodically throughout the evening there will be guided conversations.
Local therapist, licensed clinical social worker, and founder of Selfly Enterprise, PLLC, Adriana Londono is the brain and passion behind the event.
What is Speed-Friending?
Speed friending is like speed dating — but with friendship in mind. Participants rotate through short, meaningful conversations with new people, allowing them to meet several potential friends in a short period of time. It’s designed to take the pressure off and make meeting new people feel fun, easy, and intentional.
What is The Social Bloom?
The Social Bloom is a speed-friending event designed specifically for women who are looking to make new friends and build community. It’s a blend of intentional conversations, light-hearted moments, and a touch of therapeutic coaching to help ease those social jitters. It’s not a therapy event — it’s a fun, supportive experience designed to help women bloom socially and start friendships that feel aligned and real.
Who is The Social Bloom for?
The event is for women — especially those in their 20s, 30s, and 40s — who are looking to make new friends, whether they’ve recently moved to the area, are going through a life transition, or just want to build a deeper sense of connection and community.
What sparked the idea for The Social Bloom
“The Social Bloom was born out of a pattern I kept noticing in both my clients and my own personal experiences — a deep craving for connection and a feeling of loneliness that lingered even when surrounded by people. After diving deeper into the topic, I came across research from Harvard highlighting how loneliness has become an epidemic, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. Disconnection isn't just an emotional struggle; it's also a public health issue. I knew I had to do something — so I created a space where women could meet face-to-face, build authentic friendships, and feel seen.”
What can ladies attending expect?
"Expect good vibes, warm energy, and structured but relaxed activities to help spark conversation. We'll have printed conversation starters, cozy seating, music, light refreshments, and guided moments where I’ll support attendees with communication techniques and reflection prompts to deepen their connections. By the end of the event, we’ll open up the space for casual networking and free-flow conversations so folks can continue connecting at their own pace."
What is your ultimate goal for The Social Bloom?
"The response has already been amazing, and I truly believe the city needs more events like this. My goal is to host The Social Bloom quarterly and collaborate with local businesses for pop-up speed friending events. Not only would this bring more awareness to their businesses, but it would also provide fresh ways for new friends to keep connecting — over coffee, art, books, brunch, and more. The Social Bloom is just the beginning!"
For more information, visit https://bit.ly/3RdvZNd

Pate's Farm Market is the culmination of a lifelong dream for owner Michael Pate. Raised in the world of fresh produce and quality goods, Michael honed his skills working for his father, William Pate, at the Reilly Road Farmers Market. This humble beginning, which started as a roadside stand, has blossomed into a comprehensive market located at 6411 Raeford Road, Fayetteville.
In 2021, the Reilly Road Farmers Market and Carolina Market combined their offerings under one roof to form Pate's Farm Market. This new venture allowed Michael to expand his vision, providing the community with a rich variety of products and services, all while maintaining the quality and charm of its predecessors.
At Pate's Farm Market in Fayetteville, the community is in for a treat with the freshest produce around. This market features an outstanding variety of local fruits and vegetables, along with an array of tropical options and a selection of nuts. They also have a range of organic goods that are sure to please health-conscious shoppers. The dedication to excellence is evident in their meat shop as well, reminiscent of a time when visiting the neighborhood butcher for freshly cut, personalized meats was the norm.
Whether organizing a family meal or filling the pantry with the essentials for the week, Pate's guarantees customers receive nothing short of excellence. Their unwavering commitment to superior quality and a wide selection transforms grocery shopping into an enjoyable and satisfying activity.
Pate's Farm Market stands as a year-round destination, continually offering a diverse range of seasonal products. As spring and summer arrive, the nursery bursts into a lively display with a variety of flowers, vegetables, trees and shrubs, catering to gardening enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. When fall rolls in, the market takes on a new character, showcasing an impressive collection of pumpkins, mums, pansies and Halloween decorations, turning the entire place into a festive and enchanting wonderland.
As the winter season draws near, Pate's Tree Farm in Troutdale, Virginia, offers the finest Fraser Fir Trees available. These exceptional Christmas trees, coupled with an array of yard decorations, guarantee holiday celebrations will be filled with joy and cheer.
Pate's Farm Market isn't just a place to shop for groceries; it also boasts a convenient hot bar that makes life easier for its customers. Ideal for grabbing a quick lunch or dinner, this feature allows busy families to enjoy mouth-watering, country-style meals without the stress of preparing food at home.
Each day, the hot bar presents an assortment of dishes, ensuring there’s always something to appeal to everyone’s taste buds. This addition is just one of the many ways Pate's Farm Market enriches the shopping experience by merging convenience with top-notch quality.
Pate's Farm Market takes great pride in its commitment to uplifting the local community. They achieve this by obtaining fruits, vegetables, and other products from nearby farmers and sellers. This approach not only helps to strengthen the local economy but also encourages environmentally friendly practices. By prioritizing local sourcing, Pate's Farm Market ensures that their customers receive fresh, high-quality items while also fostering a sense of community and supporting small businesses.
Michael Pate's dedication to his community and the pursuit of excellence shines through in every detail of the market. From the warm and welcoming employees to the thoughtfully selected goods, Pate's Farm Market serves as a powerful example of the importance of championing local enterprises and eco-friendly agriculture. The market is more than just a place to shop; it's a celebration of community spirit and sustainable practices, where each visit offers a chance to experience the benefits of supporting homegrown businesses.

(Photo courtesy of Pate's Farm Market Facebook)

Artist Dan Nelson may be hard to define, but he's a creative talent you won't soon forget.
"If you combine three parts painter, two and a half parts musician, a pound or two of inventor, and a heaping tablespoon of show-off," wrote Fine Art America, the world's largest art marketplace and print-on-demand technology company, "you might come up with Dan Nelson, art adventurer extraordinaire."
The versatile artist makes his second appearance at the 2025 Dogwood Festival at the three-day event's much-anticipated precursor, Cork & Fork. "America's Premier Event Painter" will be a featured guest at the Dogwood Festival kickoff food and wine event happening Thursday, April 24, in Festival Park. Nelson's live art joins the Dogwood Festival's traditional lineup of music, food, vendors, and carnival rides with the return of Nelson's plein air, a live performance style unique in the world of art.
No stranger to Fayetteville, Nelson last painted live on stage here during the 2018 Dogwood Festival before a captive audience of thousands. Fast forward seven years, and the connection to this year's event, the 43rd Dogwood Festival, clicks into place.
Nelson's 2018 painting, commissioned by the Up & Coming Weekly community newspaper, is the official artwork of the 2025 Dogwood Festival. The cover of the Official Dogwood Festival edition of Up & Coming Weekly, along with commemorative souvenirs such as festival posters and t-shirts, capture and showcase the colorful festival streetscape. Nelson's abstract realism rendering of the lights, rides, and action of the Dogwood Midway, experienced through the wonder of a child's eyes—the small boy subject painted at the forefront of the scene—truly embodies the excitement of Fayetteville's signature and award winning festival.
Delivering an art and audio exhibition all in one, Nelson, a classically trained musician as well as professional artist, said he wields brushes and rollers, acrylics and oils, ladders and platforms to create masterpieces " in stereo, with just the right amount of dramatic, orchestral sweeps and harps and drums." Reflective of his inventive side, the original 2018 canvas was propped atop a handcrafted 8 x 10-foot easel, mounted on a two-and-a-half-foot lift, and outfitted with a "rock concert" sound system. While his accouterments and tricks of the trade vary with each performance, audiences should be prepared for anything.
Nelson mesmerizes audiences with the on-site, often life-sized paintings he creates using his ingenious, dual-handed brushwork and personable audience interaction. Dan Nelson Art portrays real-life festivals, weddings, concerts, fundraisers, and events of all sizes on canvas in real time.
His artistic reach extends to large companies and organizations, including the North Carolina Symphony, the Carolina Hurricanes, IBM, GlaxoSmithKline and countless others. His website domains, www.danielnelsonart.com, www.festivalpainter.com and www.weddingpainter.com provide a glimpse into his artistic prowess.
For live works, Nelson always paints the scene before him. He never begins with a plan of what he will paint but instead lets it evolve. The live painting he will produce at the Cork & Fork event on April 24th will be auctioned off that evening with the proceeds donated to the Fayetteville Dogwood Festival.
"I'm a very different kind of entertainment because my paintings develop," he said. "But you can almost say crowds of people are my specialty."
Cork & Fork will be an evening of amazing art, live music by Fayetteville's own Carolina Country Music Award winner Nicholas Vernon, plus the namesake special sips and bites for sponsors and ticket holders. All proceeds from the evening benefit Off-Road Outreach, a nonprofit organization that supports veterans in our community. Limited tickets are available and always sell out quickly; purchase online at www.eventeny.com/events/2025-fayetteville-dogwood-festival-16001/.
Bill Bowman, Publisher/Owner of Up & Coming Marketing, is one of several Cork & Fork sponsors for 2025 and is proud to facilitate the appearance of his friend Dan Nelson. Bowman's local 29-year-old media marketing company produces the annual Best of Fayetteville Awards, Cumberland County Golf Championship, Fayetteville Dinner Theatre, Gates Four Music Concert Series, Art Gallery 208, and a series of local business and community publications such as Up & Coming Weekly newspaper, Kidsville News! literacy and educational resource and Fayetteville Pocket Guide Business & Community Directory.
"My relationship with Dan Nelson spans nearly 30 years," Bowman shared. "The proudest moment of my journalistic career was when we created Kidsville News! of Cumberland County, a literacy and educational resource for K-5th-grade children, their teachers, and their parents. Dan Nelson contributed significantly to this success by creating Truman the Dragon, the beloved Kidsville News! literacy, educational, and good character mascot. Each cover of Kidsville News! is an original Dan Nelson painting commissioned to showcase Truman the Dragon, with a diverse, warm, friendly, and fun theme that reinforces the publication's unique format and educational and character development mission."
A graduate of Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Nelson learned art and music not only from formal education but also from his highly talented father, he said. He worked professionally as a freelance illustrator and won street painting, sculpture competitions, and everything in between.
"As an illustrator, I used all traditional mediums: pen and ink, watercolor, airbrush, and pastel—everything except oil painting, which I started in midlife. I think I did my first oil painting when I was 45," he said. He delved into the world of fine art two decades ago, followed by his art love of late: live event painting.
A true lifelong learner and Renaissance Man, Nelson said he has worn three hats: ministry, music, and art. He graduated from seminary following undergraduate school and worked in full-time ministry, including music ministry, for several years.
Able to play multiple instruments, including the trumpet, guitar, harmonica, and keyboard, Nelson uses his musical abilities to help lead church worship and engage in music ministry. He and his wife, Nancy, host a home church group, participating in and leading much mission work.
Nelson said in recent years, his true identities have returned: "Dan, the Art Man, and Dan, the Music Man." You can also add the writer to that list; Nelson is a member of a writers' group working on three novels simultaneously.
Which Dan Nelson will you see at Cork & Fork? The energetic, fun-loving enigma is full of not only talent but surprises. Like the toy in the Cracker Jack box, he's worth finding.
Can't make the Thursday night event? Look for the acclaimed artist inside the Dogwood Festival edition of Up & Coming Weekly newspaper. Come to the festival Fri. April 25 through Sun. April 27 and score his autograph on an official Dogwood Festival poster featuring his famous 2018 painting. A limited number of official 43rd Dogwood Festival souvenir posters and T-shirts will be available on the Festival Park promenade and at Downtown Fayetteville's A Bit of Carolina store, located at 306 Hay St. Piccadilly Circus Antiques & Gifts at 2828 Raeford Rd. next to First Bank will also have items for sale.
Learn more at https://www.thedogwoodfestival.com/fayetteville-dogwood-festival.

(Photo: Dan Nelson, a live artist, paints events as they are happening. From festivals to weddings and everything in between, Nelson captures the spirit of the event in his paintings while event goers watch the canvas transform in real time. Photo courtesy of Dan Nelson)

Follow the Spectrum- Find Yourself is presenting a Super-Hero-themed Art Festival on April 26, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Crown Complex. There will be an art contest, freebies, craft tables, food vendors, games, activities and autism resources. For more information, visit the website at https://www.followthespectrum.com.
The Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County, Watch Out, Fay Today and the Crown Complex are all sponsors of the event.
Follow the Spectrum provides support, services and educational programs to foster inclusion and understanding for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. Each person has a superpower; let us unlock it. The motto is “Follow the Spectrum, Find Yourself.”
Follow the Spectrum‘s events from 2024 raised $5,000 for the School of Hope, served 250 families within the neurodivergent community by hosting a backpack drive, and Trunk or Treat activities.
According to the Autism Society of North Carolina, 1 in 36 may be diagnosed with autism nationally. 5,437,988 adults in the United States experience autism. In North Carolina, the prevalence is even higher; approximately 1 in 40 experiences autism.
Kyle Johnson, CEO and founder of Follow the Spectrum, shares his inspiration.
“I am a native of Fayetteville. I was diagnosed with high-functioning autism with ADHD at 3 years old. I was also non-verbal at 3 years old. Ginger, my mom, took an extended leave of absence from JCPenney to be supportive of my therapy. The psychologist informed my mother that my highest level of academic achievement would be a certificate from high school and not a high school diploma,” Johnson said. “Mom discovered my superpower, music. My willpower and determination enabled me to pass on to every grade level in both primary and secondary education. I graduated from Pine Forest with a 3.4 GPA.”
Johnson’s mother also learned a lot on the journey she shared with her son.
“I also helped my mom find her real purpose in life. Mom was instrumental and involved with various therapies. She began her path as an educator. She served as a teacher’s assistant at Howard Hall Elementary. Dr Sheldon Harvey recognized her potential and recommended getting the degree to become a full-time teacher,” Johnson said. “She attended UNC Wilmington and graduated with a degree in Biology. She also passed Praxis. She currently serves as a 7th-grade science teacher in Cumberland County schools.”
As for Johnson and his academic achievements? He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Management with a minor in Music from Methodist University.
Johnson has used his life’s story to bring awareness to autism within Cumberland County.
“Sherry Grimes shared with me about the lack of autism awareness in Fayetteville. I later viewed a podcast entitled Put Me On Game. Some high school students wanted to sponsor or host annual events concerning autism in Fayetteville. I also wanted to do a fundraising project for the School of Hope. The School of Hope was planning to expand the campus for students experiencing the spectrum of autism,” he said.
Johnson began to look into opportunities to spread awareness to the community.
“Elijah Cox, Antonio Rajon Forte, Kres Thomas, FAY TODAY NEWS and I founded Follow the Spectrum,” he said.
“Autism is my superpower, what is yours?” states Alexa Lauren Burger.
Be a Superhero at the Superhero Autism and Art Festival. Attendees can expect family fun and autism awareness with an art show, food vendors, games, craft tables, freebies, and activities. Admission is free. For more information, contact Follow the Spectrum by email at info@followthespectrumnc.com.

Springtime in the Sandhills brings longer days and warmer weather, making it an exciting opportunity for families to come together at a much-loved local event: Healthy Kids Day®. Hosted by the YMCA of the Sandhills, this free, community-wide celebration is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Fayetteville YMCA at 2717 Fort Bragg Road, and the Saleeby Family YMCA at 107 Carletta Cargle Dr., in Cameron.
As part of a national initiative from the YMCA and proudly sponsored by Peanuts, Healthy Kids Day is dedicated to celebrating kids being kids—encouraging them to stay active, engaged, and connected as summer approaches.
With an array of activities, including bounce houses, a rock-climbing wall, outdoor fitness classes, and swimming opportunities, there’s something for every family member to enjoy.
Jeff Darling, CEO of the YMCA of the Sandhills, emphasizes its importance.
“We want to make sure families head into the summer with healthy habits. Healthy Kids Day is more than just a fun event—it’s a chance for families to discover everything the Y has to offer and learn how to make wellness part of their everyday lives.”
Both YMCA branches will transform into vibrant hubs with games and wellness-focused activities designed for all ages. Whether jumping into group activities or cooling off in the pool while conquering challenges like climbing walls or engaging in fitness classes together—this event offers countless ways for kids and their families to get moving.
Beyond just fun-filled moments, Healthy Kids Day reinforces the Y’s larger mission: building stronger communities through health education. It also provides working parents with valuable insights about summer camps available at their local Y.
Chealsea Sias, Youth Development Director for the YMCA of the Sandhills, invites everyone.
“We welcome our Y members and the entire community to come out for Healthy Kids Day not only for enjoyment but to learn more about our year-round programs tailored for youth and families. Our Get Summer program for teens is a great example of how we launched efforts last year to continue growth by adding programs to focus specifically on teens from 12 to 18 years old,” she said. “This program offers a free summer membership that grants access to all Y amenities, exclusive teen activities, trips, competitions, and invaluable connections with community partners and mentors.”
This annual event serves as an excellent kickoff point where attendees can explore teen programs while addressing crucial aspects such as mental health alongside physical well-being. From summer camps and swim lessons to preschool care options—the Y stands ready as a safe haven where youth can learn, grow, and thrive.
Healthy Kids’ Day wouldn't be possible without the generous support of community-minded sponsors such as Duke Energy, AmeriHealth Caritas North Carolina, Bragg Mutual Federal Credit Union, Central Electric, Kidzcare Pediatrics, and Point Church. Their contributions play a vital role in making these programs accessible.
Local businesses interested in joining the cause can still get involved by contacting Melinda Hadley at Melinda.hadley@ymcaofthesandhills.org.
For more information about the Y, visit www.ymcaofthesandhills.org.

(Graphic courtesy of the YMCA Facebook page)

"The resurrection of Christ changed the midnight of bereavement to the sunrise of reunion, it changed the midnight of disappointment into the sunrise of joy. It changed the midnight of fear to a sunrise of peace," —Billy Graham, American Evangelist
An Easter Sunrise Service will be held at Breece Memorial Park, located at Rogers & Breece Funeral Home, 500 Ramsey Street. The Easter Sunrise Service will take place on April 20 at 7 a.m. Rev. Vivian Rhone is the speaker. A light breakfast will be served after the service. The Easter Sunrise Service will be held in the Roger & Breece Chapel in the event of inclement weather. Everyone is welcome.
Rogers & Breece has served the Fayetteville and Cumberland County area since 1898.
“The Breece family has been part of the caring community for three generations, so we understand what a special place Fayetteville and Cumberland County are. Over the years, our respect for family traditions, our concern, and attention to detail have meant the kind of caring that has set the standard of quality service throughout the area,” according to their website.
The Breece Family shares their passion concerning the Easter Sunrise Service.
“The Easter Sunrise Service began over 65 years ago through the vision of the late Dr. Baxter Walker of the World for Christ Ministries and has been a beacon of hope and faith.”
In its early years, the rain hindered the service, so the Breece family opened the chapel doors of the funeral home to ensure the event would continue.
“Following the passing of Dr. Walker, the Breece family and Rogers & Breece Funeral Home have proudly sponsored and carried this service. This powerful tradition stands as a testament to the resurrection of Jesus Christ, Our Savior, who gave us the gift of life that we never deserved. The service takes place at sunrise to commemorate His resurrection, three days after the crucifixion, inviting all walks to join Him in this celebration of faith, hope, and love. As long as Corey R. Breece Sr and Robert W. Breece Jr are living, this event will remain the cornerstone of our community. The Breece family and staff at Rogers & Breece are honored to sponsor this event for our All America City.”
Share the spirit of Easter with Rogers & Breece at Breece Memorial Park. For more information, contact Rogers & Breece Funeral Home at 910-483-2191.

You could feel the angst of family members on March 31 before the wife of a retired Special Forces soldier would stand in front of a Cumberland County District Court judge on charges of taking her husband’s life at the couple’s rural home in the Gray’s Creek community.
Stefanie Firkins, sister of the deceased Clinton “Clint” Bonnell, appeared apprehensive, occasionally fidgeting with the necklace around her neck as she awaited the appearance of Shana Lea Cloud, 50, who is accused of murdering her 50-year-old husband and concealing his death, since the former Green Beret first was reported missing on Jan. 28.
Seated behind Firkins was Razzie Cloud, daughter of Shana Cloud. She appeared stoic and somber, her lips often tightly clinched.
“You are charged with first-degree murder,” Judge Frances McDuffie Britt told the defendant.
Shana Cloud appeared calm and revealed little emotion.
She acknowledged to the judge that longtime Fayetteville lawyer James MacRae Jr. would be her defense attorney.
Otherwise, Shana Cloud appeared subdued throughout the first appearance proceeding.
District attorney details evidence
“I’m going to listen now to the district attorney,” the judge said, “about your bond.”
No bond, Cumberland County District Attorney Billy West Jr. argued.
Evidence, per the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office homicide unit detectives, points to Shana Cloud in the shooting death of her husband on the morning of Jan. 28, West said, when Clint Bonnell was scheduled for class in the physician assistant program at Methodist University in north Fayetteville.
Clinton Bonnell, according to the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office, last was seen on Jan. 27 at the Fit4Life health business along Owen Drive.
“They were together at the same time,” West said about Bonnell and his wife. “Mr. Bonnell then went to Methodist University.”
He told the judge that Bonnell never left his home on Jan. 28.
The defendant, West said, did not “file a missing person,” report about her husband. The prosecutor, as well as Assistant District Attorney Rob Thompson, told the judge Clint Bonnell’s book bag, as well as his laptop computer, revealed evidence of bullet holes consistent with his fatal injuries.
The soldier’s remains were discovered Feb. 25 at a home along Gainey Road, according to the CCSO, after a 911 call was made about a partial body floating in a pond behind the home. Gainey Road is about three miles from Clinton Bonnell’s home.
“It did not have legs or arms or a head,” West told the judge.
West said there is digital evidence of Shana Cloud near Gainey Road on Jan. 29, and not far from the pond.
DNA was obtained from the unidentified remains and sent to the North Carolina State Crime Lab to obtain a DNA profile, according to a news release from the CCSO. The DNA profile was then sent to the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System for comparison with his military service profile. The AFMES, according to the release, confirmed on March 28 that the DNA was a match for the missing military veteran.
Shana Lea Cloud was arrested and charged on March 28, according to the CCSO, without incident at her Butler Nursery Road home.
‘She very much loves her husband’
James MacRae argued his client is “a model citizen” with no prior criminal record, and she has cooperated “in every respect” with law enforcement throughout the investigation.
“She very much loves her husband,” MacRae said. “She is charged with first-degree murder, and we will defend her.”
Razzie Cloud, MacRae said, believes her mother is innocent.
“She does not believe her mother is involved in her father’s death,” he told the judge.
Shana Cloud, the defense lawyer said, is not a flight risk.
“She never tried to evade law enforcement,” MacRae said.
He argued that Shana Cloud should be granted bail and be monitored electronically by law enforcement, aka house arrest.
“We would ask that rather than [for her] to sit in a Cumberland County jail ‘for years,’” MacRae pleaded with the judge. “She is not a danger to the community. I have spoken to neighbors who are behind her.”
He said, too, that Cloud was terminated from her job as a traveling nurse at a Virginia Correctional Center in Troy, Virginia, as a result of her arrest.
‘A heinous case’
Judge Britt looked at Shana Cloud.
“Mr. MacRae has done an excellent job on your behalf,” she said. “You are considered innocent” unless proven otherwise.
But …
“This is a heinous case,” the judge said, and because it is a capital murder case, no bond. Britt scheduled Shana Lea Cloud’s next court appearance for April 17.
West, 50, later told media outside the detention center that the motivation behind Bonnell’s death may have been a pending divorce initiated by Bonnell the day before Bonnell went missing. CCSO detectives, he said, learned that Bonnell told his wife of his plans for divorce. His girlfriend, who reported Bonnell missing on Jan. 29, sat beside Bonnell’s sister during Monday’s hearing.
Defense attorney MacRae also met with the media.
“I want you to know that Mrs. Cloud is innocent,” he said, “and looks forward to her day in court.”
The day was traumatic for Stefanie Firkins, 47, who has believed all along that Shana Cloud is responsible for her brother’s death and disappearance. She sat about 10 feet, separated by a pane of glass, from the woman accused of taking her brother’s life. Shana Cloud did not appear to look Firkins’ way.
A traumatic day for a daughter who has written on her Facebook account about her love for her surrogate father, whom she says taught her to dance and sing and prepare for beauty pageants as a teenager and achieve her dreams.
A heart-wrenching day for a daughter who believes in her mother’s innocence. Heart-wrenching for a sister who had to learn not only details of a brother’s murder, but the dismemberment of a brother’s body after his death.
“Clint was an incredible human who sacrificed so much for others and dedicated his life to the betterment of this world,” Firkins wrote on her Facebook page on March 28. “To be taken from us prematurely at the hands of evil will never be understood … Our family will continue to fight for justice in Clint’s name.”

UCW Editor's Note: The Let's Walk it Out Ruck - 222 Mile Ruck March, written about for the March 19 edition of Up & Coming Weekly, dedicated the second leg of their march to Camp LeJeune on April 4 to the life and legacy of Special Forces Sgt. Clint Bonnell.
"A warrior, a leader, and a beloved brother, Clint dedicated his life to serving others­—both on and off the battlefield," their Facebook post said.

Cumberland County
The Crown Event Center has remained a major topic for the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners. After a two-day closed session, Chairman Kirk deViere announced that the suspension of the project has been lifted, allowing contractors to resume work without any restrictions.
The Board of Commissioners voted on March 5 to suspend all work on the new 3,000-seat Crown Event Center, approved in 2022, for 30 days to review and investigate the scope, schedule, and budget for the project. Currently, it is budgeted at $144.5 million and is scheduled to open in Spring 2027.
Attorney J. Scott Flowers of Hutchens Law Firm in Fayetteville served as neutral counsel and provided an assessment of the status of the project, including an “additional architect’s fee” of $1.9 million from EwingCole, which had been flagged for concern according to the board.
On April 8, Chairman deViere updated the public that Flowers submitted an over 1000-page investigative report, and it was under review by County Commissioners during their closed sessions.
“Yesterday, the Board directed County Attorney Rick Moorefield to notify the contractors of the lifting of the suspension on the Crown Event Center,” said deViere. “The Board took action under its contractual obligations; our staff informed the Crown Event Center Project Team of this action and requested an update on the current status of the project. There are no restrictions on the contractors performing their work.”
He also shared that the County had received an architectural analysis of the project’s scope and budget from another third-party architect.
Currently, the county has $35 million invested in the Crown Event Center to include architectural design, site work and preliminary planning according to deViere.
The Cumberland County Ignite Internship program also introduced its Spring Cohort with ten new interns for a ten-week internship in departments ranging from human resources and community development to ITS and solid waste management.
The Ignite Internship Program gives high school and college students real-world skills, professional mentorship and an inside look at public service operations in a professional government environment. Job opportunities are open spring and fall.
On April 11, Assistant County Manager Faith Phillips and Local and State History Manager Joseph Westendorf presented the selection process for a mural to be installed at the Headquarters Library. The mural, funded by a $25,599.56 America 250 NC Grant, will celebrate Cumberland County's history, including the Liberty Point Resolves and key Revolutionary War events. Seven artists submitted proposals, and the highest-scoring design was submitted by artist Max Dowdle. The mural will be installed on the southwest side of the library by June 2026.

City of Fayetteville
On April 7, the Fayetteville City Council discussed a College Lake Dam redesign and proposed solutions for Carvers Creek Watershed at their regularly scheduled work session. The College Lake Dam experienced damage from Hurricane Florence in 2018 and a conceptual spillway configuration for the dam was developed to meet the NC Dam Safety requirements. The Carvers Creek Watershed Study identified 18 proposed solutions, including pipe upsizing.
The second item presented to the council was a Stormwater Impervious Area Analysis and Tiered Rate Study. The study evaluated the current utility rate structure and developed recommendations for a fair and equitable tiered rate structure that would generate sufficient revenue to support program goals and mimic a rate structure that is comparable to other municipal storm sewer systems. The primary difference noted in the benchmarking is that Fayetteville has a flat rate for residential rate payers vs. various tiered rates for peer communities such as Durham, Raleigh, Greensboro, Winston-Salem and Columbia, South Carolina. The consensus from the board was to move to a budget work session to determine the best tier structure and add an educational component.

In other news
Cape Fear Regional Theatre celebrated a historic expansion and renovation of the facility at 1209 Hay Street dubbed “Act 2.” The capital project will increase capacity from 20,000 square feet to 40,000 square feet and expand youth educational offerings with two studios for programming. Other features of the renovated theater include a new lobby with a mezzanine for private events and a rooftop event space with a bar and second stage for live music. It is expected to reopen in winter 2026. Currently, Cape Fear Regional Theatre is performing on an alternate stage at 1707 Owen Drive in Fayetteville.

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.

(Photo: Cape Fear Regional Theatre's ground breaking ceremony involved throwing confetti in the air with shovels, April 7. The theatre is currently operating at an alternate stage at 1707 Owen Drive, with plans to reopen on Hay St. in 2026. Photo courtesy of Cape Fear Regional Theatre)

At Cumberland County Schools, we understand that testing season can bring added stress for students and families. Whether a child is in elementary, middle or high school, families play a vital role in helping them feel prepared and confident. Below are tips tailored to each grade level to help reduce stress and encourage success during test time.
For Elementary School Students: Building Confidence Early
Young learners are still developing test-taking skills, so fostering a positive mindset is essential.
• Establish a Routine: Consistent sleep and morning routines set the foundation for a successful test day.
• Encourage a Growth Mindset: Praise effort, not just results. Let your child know that mistakes are part of learning.
• Make Learning Fun: Use games, songs and flashcards to reinforce concepts in an engaging way.
• Practice at Home: Review material in short, focused sessions. Ask your child to explain concepts to you in their own words.
• Provide a Nutritious Breakfast: A balanced meal fuels the brain and keeps energy levels steady.
For Middle School Students: Strengthening Study Habits
As students transition into more challenging coursework, structured study habits become key to success.
• Help Organize Study Time: Break studying into smaller chunks over several days rather than cramming the night before.
• Encourage Note-Taking: Writing down key points while studying can help with retention.
• Teach Stress-Reduction Techniques: Deep breathing, stretching or short walks can help calm nerves before a test.
• Limit Distractions: A quiet, well-lit study space helps students focus.
• Maintain a Healthy Routine: Ensure your child gets enough sleep and eats balanced meals leading up to test day.
For High School Students: Mastering Test-Taking Strategies
With standardized tests, final exams and college entrance exams, high school students need effective strategies to perform at their best.
• Develop a Study Plan: Encourage setting a study schedule for major exams like the SAT, ACT or end-of-course tests.
• Use Practice Tests: Taking timed practice exams can build familiarity with test formats and improve time management.
• Review Test-Taking Strategies: Teach techniques like eliminating incorrect answers first, reading questions carefully and pacing themselves during the test.
• Balance Study and Relaxation: Encourage regular breaks, physical activity and social time to avoid burnout.
• Provide Emotional Support: Remind your student that one test does not define their future and their hard work is what truly matters.
CCS Supports Your Student’s Success
At Cumberland County Schools, we are committed to equipping students with the tools they need to succeed. As a parent or guardian, your support and encouragement can make a tremendous difference in reducing test anxiety and helping your child perform at their best.
For more resources, check out our "Testing Prep at Every Level and What the Score Means" video on the district’s YouTube channel. This virtual session provides families with valuable tips and resources to help students prepare for End-of-Grade and End-of-Course tests in CCS. Learn what the scores mean and how to best support your child throughout the testing process.
Visit the Cumberland Family Academy Archives at https://bit.ly/3QKzrP4 for additional support and resources.
Together, we can ensure every student approaches testing with confidence and achieves their full potential!