With a pair of All-Sandhills Conference players returning, new Jack Britt volleyball coach Jess Grooms is hoping she can continue in the tradition of former coach Leigh Ann Weaver in leading the Buccaneers to the top of the league volleyball standings.

Meanwhile, in the Patriot Athletic Conference, veteran Cape Fear coach Jeff Bruner will be looking to retool his lineup after major graduation losses following the Colts’ latest conference title.

Grooms said maintaining communication will be a key to success for the Buccaneers this season as she hopes to build on the foundation established by Weaver.

“Our libero, Ilena Hall, has done a phenomenal job all summer,’’ Grooms said. “She’s grown so much and has become more of a vocal leader on the floor.’’

Kaiah Parker, who like Hall was all-conference last year, will be counted on to be a top hitter for the Buccaneers.

“I think I’m going to move her outside because she’s such a dominant hitter,’’ Grooms said. “I think she’s going to be a big impact player.’’

Grooms thinks Britt returns enough talent to contend for the Sandhills Conference title again this season. She got a chance to see a number of the teams Britt will face this season in preseason scrimmages and saw signs of improvement in all of them.

“This year we genuinely have a group of girls that likes each other,’’ she said. “That makes my job a whole lot easier when there are no issues between the girls on the team.’’

Cape Fear’s Bruner lost nearly all of the offense from last year’s conference championship teambut does return the core of his defense in Taylor Melvin and Marlie Horne.

“They have always kind of been our back row and done everything for us,’’ Bruner said. Another key returner is Tori McGowan, who frequently came off the bench last season but will be pressed into a starting role this year.

“We’ve made her a full-time setter,’’ Bruner said. “She’s always been able and capable to play for us.’’

So far this season Bruner has been focusingon his team’s defense. “We’ve always had the concept of anytime we get the ball over the net, we’ve got a good enough defense someone is going to get a hand on it,’’ he said. “Essentially if we’re all playing and we’re all aware after someone touches it and everyone’s helping, there’s no reason in our mind that a ball should ever hit the floor.’’

He expects the Patriot Conference to be highly competitive this season. “Cumberland County has improved its level of play,’’ he said. “Across the board, there is no easy game.’’

Pictured from left to right: Ilena Hall, Kaiah Parker, Taylor Melvin, Marlie Horne

North Carolina will celebrate the birthday of Revolutionary War hero Marquis de LaFayette Friday and Saturday, Sept. 6-7 in Fayetteville. 

Fayetteville was the first city in the nation named for the French nobleman when the State Assembly combined the towns of Cross Creek and Campbellton in 1783. It is the only namesake city Lafayette visited, even though there are many communities named for him. Festivities begin Friday evening with “Arias and Artifacts” in Davis Memorial Library at Methodist University. Tickets can be purchased at City Center Gallery & Books at 112 Hay St. or by calling 910-678-8899. The Lafayette Trail Tour takes place Saturday at 8:30 a.m., starting with coffee and croissants at the Fayetteville Independent Light Infantry, 210 Burgess St. Guests will see places that Lafayette visited when he was here in 1825. Reservations are required. Call 910-678-8899. Saturday, the Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex will celebrate Lafayette’s birthday and the American Revolution with the annual Festival of Yesteryear: Revolution on the Cape Fear, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., in Arsenal Park. 

Ice hockey gets a boost at the Crown Coliseum

Capital improvement projects underway at the Crown Coliseum will add years of life to the facility. The Cumberland County Board of Commissioners approved approximately $4.6 million to replace the coliseum ice system and ice floor and replace and paint two parking lots. These funds were available from local food and beverage tax proceeds that must be utilized by law for costs associated with Crown facilities. The ice floor, which covers the entire performance area of the coliseum, and the ice floor chiller were replaced earlier this month. Old concrete and piping were removed, and new piping was installed along with 410 cubic yards of concrete. The concrete will need 28 days to cure and will be ready for use in mid-September. The new ice system is expected to provide more than 20 years of efficient ice-making capabilities. 

“Investment in capital projects at the Crown Complex... (indicates) Cumberland County is committed to providing first-class entertainment facilities for its citizens,” said Engineering and Infrastructure Director Jeffery Brown. 

Parking lot work to replace the Agri-Expo Center east parking lot and the Cooperative Extension parking lot is about 85% complete. Construction of the Crown Coliseum was completed in 1997. To see upcoming events at the Crown, go to crowncomplexnc.com. 

Animal shelter adoptions a success

The Cumberland County Animal Shelter found homes, Aug. 17, for 162 animals during the nationwide Clear the Shelters event. Officials waived adoption fees for the day, resulting in 99 cats, 61 dogs and two guinea pigs being adopted. Twenty-two animal control staff members and 30 volunteers assisted more than 550 people who visited the shelter to see the available animals. 

Dr. April Kelly, animal control staff veterinarian, met with families to answer questions and provide information abouts heartworms, fleas, ticks and other pet health topics. Friends of the Cumberland County Animal Shelter provided adopters with gift bags with pet-related items. People interested in pet adoptions can visit the animal shelter during regular business hours, Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday from 1 to 5 p.m. Visit http://bit.ly/CCAdoptablePets for more information on pet adoptions.

Operation Safe Travel

One of the goals of the North Carolina Highway Patrol is to reduce teenage driver crashes. To accomplish this objective, the State Patrol has requested the assistance of the Cumberland County Schools system to inform parents of high school students who drive to school to be aware of the following issues: speeding; seatbelt usage; limited provisional license violations; Level II driver restrictions, which means one teenage passenger; and distractions such as texting while driving and cellphone usage. Troopers are patrolling the main thoroughfares and roads that feed into county schools during the first two weeks of the school year. Parents are urged to make their teens aware that enforcement actions will be taken for substantial violations of motor vehicle laws.

Introducing the EMBLETC

The Cumberland County Board of Commissioners has named the sheriff’s training center in honor of former longtime Sheriff Moose Butler, who retired three years ago. Sheriff Ennis Wright asked the board to name the training center for Butler. Sheriff Wright provided a petition signed by 14 current and former elected officials supporting the endorsement. 

The building, located next to the Animal Control Center on Corporation Drive, is now the Earl “Moose” Butler Law Enforcement Training Center. 

Butler served as Cumberland County Sheriff for 22 years, from 1994 to 2016. The state-of-the-art training center was built during his tenure. It has an indoor firing range, munitions room, lecture rooms, a driver training pad and other features. It was built using money forfeited by drug dealers who were arrested and successfully prosecuted. 

One of the mightiest curses that ancient Chinese allegedly could lay on another person was “May you live in interesting times.” 

No one can prove who actually said this, or even if it was said. However, never letting a lack of factual basis stand between me and a column deadline, I repeat it here. It may have been said by Shaolin Master Po in the old 1970s TV show “Kung Fu.” 

Po was a blind Shaolin monk. He taught Kwai Chang Caine — David Carradine — fancy martial art moves while saying cosmic stuff like “Do you hear the grasshopper which is at your feet?” Fun fact- grasshopper’s ears are near their back legs. 

I digress. We are living in interesting times. Real wars in the Middle East, trade wars with China, Greenland going into escrow, mass shootings and recession on the horizon are all arriving in a confluence of bad news. However, as Po may have said, “Cheer up, it could be worse.” So, I cheered up. Of course, it got worse. Never bet against Po. 

In order to form a more perfect readership, establish schadenfreude, ensure domestic disharmony and to provide for the common distaste of life in general, consider the wonderful world of science fiction movie posters. No matter how bad things are in real life, gentle reader, the reel life of people in sci-fi movies was infinitely worse. A giant bug is not threatening to eat you now, is it? Nope. 

Ponder these movie posters. You will feel better fast, like taking cinematic Wellbutrin. All of these bad things are happening to someone else. Someone else who is worse off than you. Isn’t that what life is all about? The ability to see someone slip on a banana peel, laugh at them and feel superior?

Take a trip down 1950s movie monster lane. Consider “The Monster that Challenged the World.” The poster shows a very large caterpillar clutching a buxom damsel in its many arms. The poster says “A new kind of terror to numb the nerves. Crawling up from the depths to terrify and torture.” 

Space aliens arrive in “Satan’s Satellites,” which shows a guy in a space suit carrying an unconscious buxom lady while space ships and robots are blasting away at a great American city with the line: “Cosmic Thrills as space spies plot to put the world out of orbit.” 

Insect fear arrives with “The Deadly Mantis,” showing a giant praying mantis attacking the Washington Monument as airplanes harmlessly blast him. The poster says: “This was the day that engulfed the world in terror.” 

The 1950s classic movie “Them” has a giant ant scooping up a pretty lady in a blue dress in his giant pincers as cowardly men hide with the line: “An endless terror. A nameless horror.” Quick Henry, the Flit!

Who could forget “The Fiend Without a Face,” which is a human brain with a tail slithering toward yet another buxom lady? She is wrapped in a towel having just gotten out of the shower. The poster’s line: “New horrors. Mad science spawns evil fiends. Fiends take form before your very eyes.” 

Continuing in the brain lane, consider “The Brain Eaters,” which are “crawling, slimy things, terror bent on destroying the world.” 

A more traditional alien with a huge bulbous head appears in “Saucer Men.” He has a giant brain and is, once again, holding a shapely young lady in his evil clutches as flying saucers blast a city with the line: “Creeping horror from the depths of hell and outer space.” 

“Tobor the Great” is a giant robot carrying yet another unconscious curvaceous woman with the line: “Man-made monster with EVERY human emotion.” Clearly, Tobor has something more in mind that just conquering Earth. 

Very few posters didn’t feature damsels in distress. However “The Wasp Woman” poster shows a giant wasp with a woman’s head clutching a shirtless man with the line: “A beautiful woman by day — A lusting Queen wasp by night.” 

Along the same gender lines, “The Astounding She Monster” shows a gargantuan nearly topless lady with flying saucers blasting a tiny man holding a rifle with the line: “A creature from Beyond the Stars Evil... Beautiful... Deadly!” 

There seems to be a pattern here. Helpless ladies held hostage by giant malevolent critters. When men are endangered, it is by evil She Creatures from the Great Beyond. What are we to make of this? Bad things that go bump in the night only go after beautiful women? Is the story of Adam and Eve somehow the basis for 1950s science fiction movies? Women are either helpless victims or evil monsters in these movies. 

As Mr. Rogers would say, “Can you say misogyny? I knew you could.” 

Have we learned anything today? Unfortunately, once again very little. 

But cheer up, you are not being chomped by a giant ant, stung by a wasp woman, sexually harassed by a robot or having your brain served as sushi. 

Now don’t you feel better? Everything is relative. As a wise man once told me, “It is better to be seen than to be viewed.” 

Now get out there and enjoy your superiority.

Fayetteville Academy and Terry Sanford both enjoyed outstanding success on the soccer field last season, the Academy capturing another North Carolina Independent Schools Athletic Association state title while Terry Sanford went unbeaten in the Patriot Athletic Conference and made the third round of the North Carolina High School Athletic Association 3-A playoffs.

But look for things to be much different at both schools this season. For one, both suffered major graduation losses, especially the Academy, which lost 12 seniors, 10 them starters.

Terry Sanford will be much younger with only three seniors back along with 14 juniors and three sophomores.

But the biggest change for the Bulldogs will be the loss of head coach Karl Molnar, who is taking over as the school’s varsity boys basketball coach.

Replacing him will be another veteran coach in the Terry Sanford program, Steven Barbour.

“I’ve got big shoes to fill,’’ Barbour said. “There’s a winning tradition at Terry Sanford and its always daunting to come in behind a coach who was so successful.’’

Terry Sanford’s Jarred Miller and Andrew Troutman were the offensive and defensive players of the year in the Patriot Conference last season, but both graduated.

Barbour knows he’s got a lot of work to do to build chemistry and make use of everyone’s talents.

“We’ve got a deep pool of talent,’’ he said. “If we get everyone to work together and utilize their ability, I think we can be competitive.’’

Barbour expects the midfield to be the heart of the team with Davis Molnar, Alex Fox and newcomer Graham MacLeod leading the way.

Another returning forward expected to contribute heavily is Ever Aguero Aranda.

With the coaching change plus having to play all home games at Reid Ross High School while Terry Sanford’s stadium is being rebuilt, Barbour expects a challenging season.

“I feel we’re in the crosshairs of a lot teams,’’ he said. “Gray’s Creek, Cape Fear and Pine Forest all have their sights set on us. It’s going to be a fun season to rise to the challenge.’’

Fayetteville Academy’s Andrew McCarthy may have an inexperienced group but said they are working hard to get better every day.

“We’ve got players playing positions they’ve never played before,’’ he said. “They are certainly improving and that’s all we can ask for.’’

At this point, McCarthy said he can’t claim the Eagles are either a strong attacking or a strong defensive team, just a work in progress.

“The two captains, Cortez Herring and Davis Saint-Amand, are our two seniors,’’ he said. McCarthy said the two midfielders have been around the Eagle program for a number of years and will be counted on to provide needed leadership.

Pictured from top to bottom: Davis Saint-Amand, Cortez Herring, Ever Aguero Aranda

Can simply adding more police officers to the streets, or changing how they operate, reduce the crime rate? A report from the Brennan Center for Justice at NYU School of Law, “What Caused the Crime Decline?” provides some answers. First, increasing the number of police officers can reduce crime by about 5 to 10%. Police employment increased dramatically in the 1990s, rising 28%. 

A major contributor was the 1994 crime bill, which provided funding for 100,000 new local officers. The city of Fayetteville added nearly 50 additional officers to the force during retired Chief Harold Medlock’s administration, bringing the number of sworn officers to 433. The increase resulted in a three-cent increase in the property tax rate.

Police techniques can also be effective in reducing crime. Interestingly, the biggest impact has come from something that gets a lot less ink than controversial measures, such as stop-and-frisk or the use of military equipment — the digital revolution. During the 1990s, police forces began using computers to target their efforts. The technique is known as CompStat. Part management tool, part geographical data-driven analysis, CompStat originally was little more than sticking pins in a map on the wall, looking for crime patterns. But it worked. Former New York City Police Commissioner Bill Bratton implemented it full-scale in 1994. It then spread to many cities around the country, including Fayetteville.

Changes in law enforcement tactics are a key part of the larger puzzle, accelerating and reinforcing the other factors that combine to produce a decline in street crime. The hallmarks of CompStat are strong management and accountability techniques in a police department, as well as reliance on data collection to identify crime patterns at chosen locations. Resources are then deployed to break those patterns. 

Shift changes have also increased police visibility. In Fayetteville, the patrol shift schedule changed from three daily eight-hour shifts to two 12-hour shifts in January of this year. The net effect was a significant increase in human resources on the streets at a given time — from roughly 30 officers to 50. 

Police officers expressed concerns because their work schedules have a greater impact on their personal lives than any other non-life-threatening variable. According to the Brennan Center for Justice report, officers and their supervisors were initially concerned about the fatigue factor and its potential impact on safety, decision-making and productivity. 

To their advantage, though, police officers working 12-hour shifts found they spend more time with their families and have more time to perform routine tasks at home and away from work. Every other weekend off provides them more flexibility for recreation. A vast majority of spouses also reported overall satisfaction with the 12-hour schedule. 

In the Fayetteville Police Department, there have been no insurmountable problems reported in implementing the 12-hour schedule. Advantages far outweigh any disadvantages because fewer, longer shifts have a track record of improving the quality of life for officers and their families. Perhaps the most convincing argument for 12-hour shifts was that there is no record of officers wanting to switch back to their previous schedules.

Since the early 19th century, Americans have put our money where our mouths have been when it comes to education. We began with significant funding for public education for primary grades, high schools and ultimately, colleges and universities. North Carolina was way ahead of other states by founding our new nation’s first public university in 1789, an institution we know today as UNC-Chapel Hill. 

Education has never been a perfect system in our nation. It has been spotty both in accessibility and quality. Women and minorities were shut out initially, and small institutions in the hinterlands cannot compare to Harvard, Yale or UNC-Chapel Hill. Space is limited in almost all institutions, and price is always a factor.

Nevertheless, most Americans believed then and believe now that education is the great leveler and that it has the potential to lift all boats. We believe that a college education is not the only ticket to a successful and productive life but that it is definitely a boost in the right direction. The numbers bear out that belief, with college graduates consistently out-earning those with less education and enjoying more stable lives in other ways as well. 

In 2019, in an atmosphere of profoundly toxic and divisive partisan rancor, faith in the value of education has taken a hit and it, too, is along party lines. The nonpartisan Pew Research Center released study findings earlier this month about an undercurrent of public dissatisfaction — even suspicion — according to the Center, regarding higher education in our country. Fully 12% more Americans now say that colleges and universities have a negative effect than agreed with that statement earlier this decade. Almost all of the negative growth is among Republicans and independents who lean Republican. Democrats and independents who lean Democratic continue to view higher education as they have in the past, and their view is “overwhelmingly positive.” 

Both Republicans and Democrats are concerned with the rising cost of higher education and with equity in the admissions process to protect qualified students from less advantaged families. Beyond those concerns, 79% of Republicans, predominantly senior citizens, worry about professors bringing their own politics to school with them while only 17% of Democrats express that concern. In addition, Republicans and Democrats have veered apart on what they see as the purpose of higher education. Both agree that higher education should prepare a student with skills and knowledge to be deployed in the workplace, but Democrats are more likely to cite personal and intellectual growth as well.

These changes in attitudes about higher education fly in the face of generations of belief that education enriches us, both individually and as a society. Increased negativity toward higher education begs the question — if we do not see higher education as valuable for our nation, what will replace it in our society? Will we be able to compete in growing economies that do stress, value and support higher education? Will we lose in a world where education attainment is an international currency?

The Pew Research Center frames the issue this way.

“This broad overview of data on views about higher education in the U.S. reveals a complex set of attitudes — a public that still sees the benefit of a college education but has grown weary about the politics and culture on colleges campuses and the value of a four-year degree that has an ever-increasing price tag.

“The partisan gaps underlying these views are reflective of our politics more broadly. From health care to the environment to immigration and foreign policy, Republicans and Democrats increasingly see the issues of the day through different lenses. But views on the nation’s educational institutions have not traditionally been politicized. Higher education faces a host of challenges in the future — controlling costs amid increasing fiscal pressures, ensuring that graduates are prepared for the jobs of the future, adapting to changing technology and responding to the country’s changing demographics. Ideological battles waged of the climate and culture on college campuses may make addressing these issues more difficult.”

Most Americans believe that education is the great leveler and that it has the potential to lift all boats. 

When Hurricane Florence blew through Hope Mills last fall, one of the many casualties of the storm was the Miss Cotton Pageant.

Florence became a perfect storm to wreck the pageant as the town’s Parks and Recreation Building was damaged and uninhabitable for months, forcing the recreation staff to take temporary headquarters in Town Hall.

All that upheaval made the task of putting on the pageant too big a challenge.

But barring the intervention of weather again this fall, the Miss Cotton Pageant will return, scheduled Friday and Saturday, Sept. 27-28, in the auditorium at Jack Britt High School.

Paulette Hobbs of the recreation department is overseeing this year’s pageant. The original plan was to hold it at South View High School, but the school couldn’t guarantee the dates the town was seeking, so it was moved to the auditorium at Jack Britt.

Applications to enter the pageant are available at the recreation center on Rockfish Road or online at www.townofhopemills.com.

The entry fee is $50 per contestant and the entry deadline is Friday,
Sept. 13.

Separate age categories of the competition will be held on each of the two nights of the pageant.

Sept. 27 is for the 3- to 9-year-old contestants. Sept. 28 is for the 10- to 22-year-old contestants. Both evenings the competition will begin at 6:30 p.m.

Two important events will be held prior to the actual pageant. On Saturday, Sept. 21 at 11 a.m. at the Parks and Recreation Building there will be a meeting with all parents of pageant contestants. Thursday, Sept. 26, from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m., a dress rehearsal for all contestants will take place in the auditorium at Jack Britt High School.

For any questions or concerns about the pageant, contact Hobbs at the Parks and Recreation offices at 910-426-4109.

The Student Learning Center at Fayetteville Technical Community College offers students the opportunity to be in charge of their own learning. The Center provides students with academic tutoring, assistance and resources to further their comprehension of key concepts in a wealth of subject areas. 

The Center is a source of encouragement and support for FTCC students. Students who visit the SLC find a place where they can ask questions and receive answers without feeling embarrassed. Instructors listen to students and assess their academic needs, working one-on-one to provide meaningful and positive academic experiences.

Instructors work to bridge the gap between learning and understanding. We want students to feel comfortable when entering the SLC. Everyone learns differently, and we understand the struggles that students can face each semester. In fact, we encourage students to come to the Center as soon as they have a question or need assistance, rather than waiting for problems to arise. We provide a welcoming atmosphere with comfortable seating, computers, laptops and group instruction rooms. Additionally, the Center has recently been updated to include mobile whiteboards and mobile whiteboard tables to promote interactive learning. Students can also use the Center for a quiet place to study between or after classes. We have heard some students refer to the Center as their home away from home.

 Twelve instructors in the Center stand ready to help students gain understanding by answering academic questions. Each instructor has a higher education degree and has worked closely with adult learners. 

The primary goals of the SLC staff are to work with students to help them succeed, accomplish educational goals and create bigger and brighter futures. Education makes all the difference in attaining positive change. 

Additional resources are available for students as well, including three specialized labs located in the same general area as the SLC. The math, science, and writing labs offer students the same one-on-one experience they receive in the SLC but within a more personalized setting. The math and writing labs have one instructor, and two instructors serve the science lab. 

In addition to the one-on-one tutoring, the Center provides NetTutor Online Tutoring Service for distance education learners. NetTutor is available 24 hours a day and seven days a week. The tutoring service is available through FTCC student Blackboard accounts. 

Using the SLC is free, and no appointment is necessary. Students simply bring an FTCC student ID, swipe ID at the front kiosk, choose a class for needed assistance and get ready for an amazing learning experience. 

The SLC is located inside the Harry F. Shaw Virtual College Center. Hours of operation are Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-7 p.m., and Friday,
8 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information, contact the SLC at learningcenter@faytechcc.edu or call 910-678-8266. Discover the difference between taking classes and succeeding in classes.   

America’s involvement in the Vietnam War was so gradual that a fixed date for its beginning is impossible to set. In 1961, President John F. Kennedy authorized sending 400 Special Forces troops and 100 other U.S. military advisers to South Vietnam. The same day, he ordered the start of clandestine warfare against North Vietnam to be conducted by South Vietnamese agents under the direction and training of the CIA and U.S. Special Forces. President Dwight Eisenhower had sent about 50 military advisors to help the South Vietnamese army defend against communist incursion. 

During the Buddhist holiday of Tet, Jan. 30, 1968, one of the largest military campaigns of the Vietnam War was launched by forces of the Vietcong and North Vietnamese People’s Army against the South Vietnamese Army, United States Armed Forces and their allies. Over 80,000 Vietcong troops emerged from their tunnels and attacked nearly every major metropolitan center in South Vietnam. 

Army Major Raymond Schrump turned 36 years old the day he arrived in Vietnam, the same day the Tet Offensive launched. Schrump had accepted a job training and coordinating local fighters to work with U.S. soldiers against North Vietnamese forces. Early one morning, when a U.S. light infantry unit was ambushed near Schrump’s base, he took some of his men to retrieve the wounded. He was shot in the right shoulder and was taken prisoner. In the nearly five years that followed, Schrump said he was held at 11 different sites in South Vietnam and Cambodia. 

Captured soldiers faced miserable conditions with inadequate food and a general lack of sanitation. Cruel treatment was common. “I had malaria so many times I lost count,” Schrump said. 

He became emaciated, at one point weighing less than 86 pounds. Though he often contemplated escape, Schrump’s ordeal didn’t end until after the signing of the Paris Peace Accords on Jan. 27, 1973. His then-wife Anne traveled with the U.S diplomatic team to Paris. In February, Schrump and other POWs returned to the United States. Schrump came to Fort Bragg, where he had joined the Special Forces in 1962. He was brought off an Air Force plane at Pope Army Air Field on a gurney. 

Schrump kept his life private and retired as a lieutenant colonel in December 1973. He launched a new career as a military contractor first at Fort Bragg and later working for companies in the Persian Gulf. 

Now 87, Schrump also worked as a volunteer at the North Carolina Veterans Park across the parade field from the Airborne & Special Operations Museum in Fayetteville. Museum curator Nicole Suarez spent many hours with Schrump, recording his story and seeking his counsel for an exhibit that fills a gallery at the museum and tells the stories of several POWs, including Schrump. 

“It’s uncomfortable” to hear this story, says Suarez, and that’s good. “You want people to feel something. You don’t want to sanitize the experience.” 

As they leave the museum, visitors are reminded that so long as U.S. soldiers are at work in the world, they are at risk of capture and imprisonment and that Special Forces troops are still among the most desirable targets. Schrump has said he hopes those who tour the exhibit learn something, too, about the resiliency of the human spirit. It was his faith, he says, that kept him alive through his captivity. “Faith in God, faith in my country, and faith in my fellow man,” he said. 

Pictured: Major Raymond Schrump

Averasboro Battlefield Commission and The Carolina Legion present the Civil War event “Army on the Move” Saturday, Sept. 14, and Sunday, Sept. 15, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at Averasboro Battlefield and Museum. Members of the 26th N.C., 6th N.C., 49th N.C. and the Iron Grey Mess and Reilly’s Battery will take part in numerous demonstrations. There will be battlefield and ravine tours occurring throughout the event as well. 

“The purpose of this event is to give the spectators and visitors a look at how an army moved its forces during the Civil War,” said Benny Pearce, secretary of the Averasboro Battlefield Commission. “It will be a living-history event. In addition to that we will have some exhibits that feature World War II as well.”

The battlefield is significant historically. “The Battle of Averasboro was held on the Cumberland County and Harnett County line on March 15 and 16 in 1865,” said Pearce. “A lot of people don’t know that the actual Civil War battle was held that close to our locations here in Cumberland and Harnett counties.”

Pearce added it was the next to last battle of the Civil War, the last one being in Bentonville, North Carolina. 

“We have many exhibits, and a lot of them were donated to us from people who live in the Cumberland and Harnett county areas,” said Pearce. “A lot of the other ones were donated by interested people that came to visit with us and wanted to share with us the artifacts they maintained in their families for many, many years.

“We try to present a history of showing by artifacts and to tell about the battle using maps at the museum that we have especially prepared for us. We have very knowledgeable volunteers and we are an all volunteer organization with no paid staff members, but we have many knowledgeable tour guides that can share with visitors what the Battle of Averasboro was all about.” 

The Averasboro Battlefield and Museum is open Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The museum is free and open to the public. Admission for the event is $5 for ages 12 and older and $3 for children under 12. Pets are not allowed. The museum is located at 3300 NC Hwy. 82 in Dunn For more information visit www.averasboro.com or call 910-891-5019.

The Cumberland County Fair is back in Fayetteville, bringing with it a blend of homegrown traditions, interesting exhibits, exciting rides and fun for people of all ages. It will open at the Crown this Friday, Aug. 30. 

The theme of the fair this year is “Moo-vin’ and Groovin’.” The dairy industry is a hot topic, and the Cumberland County Cooperative Extension is using the event as an opportunity to teach people about dairy farms. “Our agricultural display will be focused on dairies,” said Jessica Drake, the extension agent in charge of 4-H Youth Development for Cumberland County. 

“The mission is to highlight all things dairy and maintain an emphasis on the historical importance of agriculture in Cumberland County,” said Daniel Marsh, the director of marketing for the Crown.

One of the highlights of the theme-related activities utilizes virtual reality. “We’re having virtual reality so people can enjoy visiting a farm and learning about it without leaving the fair. This is an opportunity North Carolina State provided to us,” Drake said. “We want to bridge that gap from farm to fork.” 

Additionally, there will be a milking booth, a children’s area and information on the N.C. Dairy Alliance. “The fair is a prime opportunity to be able to get a lot of people educated through a hands-on experience,” Drake explained.

The Cumberland County Fair highlights the importance of agriculture every year. In fact, it’s partnered with the North Carolina Association of Agricultural Fairs. The North Carolina Association of Agricultural Fairs awarded two scholarships this year for the fair. One went to Ashlyn Johnson of Lincoln Memorial University who will be studying veterinarian medicine and the other went to John Faatz of N.C. State University who is studying livestock management. 

A variety of community organizations will be represented at the fair to explain their services and what they offer throughout the community. Attendees can also count on a variety of vendors inside and outside on the midway. 

Before the fair’s opening, many people swarm in to enter their proudest creations as exhibits for the chance to win ribbons and cash prizes. Participants can enter food items such as fresh produce, canned goods and baked goods. There are floriculture, horticulture, agriculture, arts and crafts, photography, sewed items and livestock categories as well. The winners of “Best of Show” ribbons will move on to compete in the N.C. State Fair in October. All of the items are on display. 

“Youth have the opportunity through the livestock shows to show off what they’ve accomplished and what they’ve worked hard on all year,” Drake said. “It’s very important for youth to have that sense of accomplishment whether they win or they lose. Really, (entering anything in the fair) is a great opportunity for anyone of any age to put their accomplishments on display.” 

Other indoor attractions include a scavenger hunt, the Junior Livestock Show, the antique farm exhibit and a toddler driving school.

This year’s main attraction at the fair will be Johnny Rockett’s Cycle Circus Live, which is the largest FMX Freestyle show of its kind in the world. The show will feature a variety of acts, including FMX, BMX, The Globe of Death, Daredevil Divas, Triple Flipping Motorcycle, The Fire Girls and more. The high-tech pyrotechnics and the daring stunts make this a popular show. 

A whopping 27 rides will be offered by Big Rock Amusements on the midway this year. For people who enjoy the classic rides, there will be the Giant Wheel, a Ferris wheel that is over 80 feet tall, a Fun Slide, a grand carousel and a Tilt-a-Whirl. Visit http://bigrockamusements.com/events/35 to see the full offering of rides. 

Although part of the event falls on Labor Day weekend, the Cumberland County Fair is an exciting tradition worthy of a “stay-cation.” “It’s a staple,” said Marsh. “Many families within Cumberland County and the surrounding area choose to stay home around Labor Day, and this is an opportunity for us to provide them with quality entertainment at a reasonable price. There is no better way to not only end the summer, but to also begin our event season here at the Crown Complex.” 

Throughout the duration of the fair, there will be promotional nights. The Up & Coming Weeklycoloring sheet contest is Aug. 31. 

With their student IDs, attendees can receive $2 off the cost of admission. 

Sept. 1 is “Ultimate Stay-Cation Student Night.” Students with IDs will receive $4 off admission. 

On Sept. 2, attendees who arrive between 1-5 p.m. pay ten dollars for admission and rides, and those that arrive after five pay $15 for unlimited rides and admission for “Early Bird Pay One Price Night.” 

Sept. 3-5 is “Pay One Price Night.” “Senior Day” takes place Sept. 5 and offers free admission for senior citizens until 5 p.m. and offers unlimited rides with admission.

 “Military and Emergency Services Appreciation Night” takes place Sept. 6. Admission is free with an IDcard. The last day of the fair is “Faith and Family Day.” By mentioning their church or bringing a church bulletin, attendees can receive a $2 discount.

 “It’s important to bring community together. The fair is a fun, low-stress environment where you can all just enjoy each other and learn about the community through different organizations that put booths up,” Drake said. 

The fair opens this Friday at 5 p.m. and continues through Sept. 8. It is appropriate for all ages. Visit http://www.crowncomplexnc.com/events/cumberlandcountyfair for more information. 

Here are the preseason coaches and media polls from the Patriot Athletic Conference and the Sandhills Athletic Conference. First-place votes received by each team are listed in parentheses on all polls:

Patriot Athletic Conference

Coaches 

1. Pine Forest (4)

2. South View (2)

3. Terry Sanford (2)

4. Cape Fear 

5. Westover (1)

6. Gray’s Creek

7. Douglas Byrd

8. Overhills

9. E.E. Smith

Media

1. Terry Sanford (3)

2. Pine Forest (2)

3. South View (1)

4. Cape Fear

5. Gray’s Creek

6. Westover, Douglas Byrd

8. E.E. Smith

9. Overhills

Sandhills Athletic Conference

Coaches

1. Richmond Senior (6)

2. Scotland (2)

3. Seventy-First

4. Pinecrest

5. Jack Britt

6. Hoke County, Lumberton

8. Purnell Swett

Media

1. Richmond Senior (6)

2. Scotland (4)

3. Seventy-First

4. Pinecrest

5. Jack Britt

6. Hoke County

7. Purnell Swett

8. Lumberton

As summer events are wrapping up, 4th Friday continues to offer an entertaining and family-friendly experience in downtown Fayetteville. 4th Friday is a tradition that occurs on the fourth Friday of every month and offers entertainment or art (or both). 4th Friday will fall on Aug. 23. The theme will be “Back to Cool Bash.” 

“It’s an end-of-summer bash for the kids going back to school,” Johanna Brum of the Cool Spring Downtown District said. “There will be a food truck, there will be artists. Maxwell Street will be closed, so we’ll extend that out and do bouncy houses and face painting.” 

There will also be artists and dancers. 

 The Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County will also host its monthly parking lot party. The Arts Council’s 4th Friday Artist’s Program creates a space for artists to make and show their work and share their passion with others. Artists can visit www.theartscouncil.com/ParkingLotParty to sign up .

 The Arts Council will also offer an activity to keep with the “Back to Cool” theme — a dunk tank.“In the dunk tank, we will have school officials from several different schools to be dunked,” explained Antonio Renteria, the assistant director of operations at the Arts Council. “All proceeds will go to our Artists in Schools program.” 

The juried art exhibit 10:10:10 will also open on 4th Friday. It will include work from ten different artists. The display will be ten linear feet and will have ten self-curated exhibitions. 

There will also be a beer garden. Beer enthusiasts can look forward to “a fairly good mix of domestics, a couple different craft beers.” said Renteria. “There’ll be an IPA and an ale. A variety. There will also be seating for people to eat and local artists on our sidewalks and in our parking lots.” 

For people who are interested in learning more about the history of Fayetteville, The Fayetteville Area Transportation and Local History Museum has an exhibit every 4th Friday. This month’s exhibit is called “Market House History.” Half of the Market House is a permanent exhibit. The exhibit will be “featuring collectibles and displaying different ways that the Market House has been promoted and displayed over time. It’s always been a symbolic place and has been used as an image on a lot of items,” said Bruce Daws, the museum’s director.

At Fascinate-U Children’s Museum, children can decorate a cloth lunch bag to use at school from 7-9 p.m. Playing at the museum is free for kids every Fourth Friday as well. 

 In His Presence Coffee, Books & More is partnering with Praise NOW 2019 will take place from 4-8 p.m. at Festival Park. It will have Christian music and be worship-centered. 

 Call the Cool Spring Downtown District at 910-223-1089 or visit www.theartscouncil.com to learn more about 4th Friday.

Cape Fear Valley Health and Vidant Health Systems have announced a new partnership aimed at addressing and improving chronic health conditions in rural eastern North Carolina. It’s part of the growing focus on population health. “By working collaboratively, we can address many of the factors that influence health outcomes for the rural populations we serve south and east of the urban areas of the state,” said Michael Nagowski, chief executive officer of Cape Fear Valley Health System. 

“This partnership advances our vision in every way, improving the quality of every life we touch. Both of our organizations understand the unique challenges facing this region,” agreed Todd Hickey, chief clinical network development officer of Vidant Health in Greenville, North Carolina. 

This clinically integrated network of care will allow both health systems to strategically align resources in a way that will deliver better care to some of the most underserved populations in the country. 

Many of the counties in eastern and southeastern North Carolina rank in the bottom half in overall health outcomes, according to a 2019 study by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Vidant Health is a 1,708-bed health system that annually serves a region of more than 1.4 million people in 29 eastern North Carolina counties. The not-for-profit system is made up of more than 14,000 team members, nine hospitals, home health, hospice, wellness centers and Vidant Medical Group, a multispecialty physician and provider group with more than 500 providers in more than 100 practice sites in eastern North Carolina. Vidant is affiliated with The Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University. As a major resource for health services and education, Vidant’s mission is to improve the health and well-being of eastern North Carolina. 

Cape Fear Valley Health is a 950-bed health system serving a region of more than 800,000 people in southeastern North Carolina. It is the state’s eighth-largest hospital system and is made up of 7,000 team members and 850 physicians. It includes eight hospitals and more than 60 primary care and specialty clinics. Cape Fear Valley Health offers residencies in emergency medicine, internal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, psychiatry, and general surgery. The partnership between Vidant and Cape Fear Valley will engage their communities in a collaborative, patient-centered approach, including the use of technology, localized care management and streamlined patient experiences to accomplish shared goals.

This joint project is the first step in introducing local physicians, physician assistants and nurse practitioners in 35 counties through a larger collaborative approach that will be a vehicle toward improving engagement, quality and patient outcomes while lowering costs to patients and their families. 

“We are continually assessing ways in which we can adapt to the ever-changing dynamics of health care,” said Hickey. “Our priority is and always will be the communities we serve and we are committed to creating networks of care to keep our family, friends and neighbors healthy.” 

Head coach: Deron Donald

2018 record: 0-11

Top returners: Darrius Johnson, 5-11, 260, Sr., OL; Anthony Glenn, 5-7, 210, Sr., OL; Jordan Woodard, 6-2, 185, Sr., WR/QB; Jeremy Evans, 5-9, 160, Sr., WR; Shawn Kirk, 5-7, 155, Sr., RB; John Humphrey, 6-1, 250, Sr., DL; Ananiah Bell, 6-0, 265, Sr., DL; Trevon Hinton, 5-7, 150, Sr., DB; Brendin Tibbs, 5-8, 190, Sr., LB/DB; Micah Gaston, 5-11, 145, Sr., DB.

Top newcomers: Tyree Johnson, 6-0, 175, Jr., DB; Jabre Humphrey, 6-1, 170, Jr., WR; Genuwine Clark, 6-0, 285, Jr., OL; Tyreeke Allen, 5-9, 170, Jr., DB; Keyon Bryant, 5-11, 200, Jr., LB; Keyon Allen, 6-1, 215, Jr., LB; Dashawn McCullough, 5-11, 160, So., QB; Daniel Dawson, 5-8, 155, So., WR/RB; Khamari Crumpler, 5-8, 155, So., RB; Jeremiah Dawson, 5-7, 165, Sr., OLB.

Team strengths:“We have several returners that got plenty game experience last year. I believe this year we should be able to handle the Friday night lights better. Experience has always been the greatest teacher.’’

Team concerns: “Anytime you have a young quarterback you have to be prepared to coach them through growing pains. I know that Dashawn McCullough is very capable of leading our football team and our coaches and team will support him.’’

Pictured from top to bottom: Brenden Tibbs, Jordan Woodard

Coach:Ernest King

2018 record: 4-7

Top returners:Keyshown Lindsey, 6-1, 210, Sr., RB; Taurienne Freeman, 6-2, 220, Sr., MLB; Zavion Whitehead, 6-2, 185, Sr., WR; Devon Marshall, 6-0, 175, Sr., WR; Gabe Henry, 5-8, 160, Jr., WR; Brandon Henry, 5-9, 175, Sr., DB.

Top newcomers: Remington Workman, 6-0, 200, So., OLB; Isiah Barber, 6-1, 250, Sr., DL; Kamaree Boyens, 6-1, 170, Sr., DB.

Team strengths:“Our strengths are our number of kids we have returning with playing experience. Our kids have had more 21 days to learn the system before the season starts.”

Team concerns: “One of the concerns is the experience of the young players’ success in key positions. Another concern is the depth at each position.’’

Pictured from top to bottom: Keyshown Lindsey, Taurienne Freeman

One of the jobs of the North Carolina Department of Transportation is to monitor subrecipients of federal funding that fall under their watch for compliance with the Americans with Disabilites Act.

That’s why sometime last year the town of Hope Mills, as a municipality that receives federal money through DOT, got a letter from DOT checking in on the status of the town’s compliance.

Don Sisko, who heads the public works department for Hope Mills, indicated the town is taking an aggressive approach to making sure the process to assure facilities under town control are either already accessible or will be made that way as soon as possible.

Sisko noted the town only has control over upgrading town-managed facilities and property. Private businesses and other town entities not under government control don’t fall under the direct oversight of the town or Sisko’s department. 

To help make sure nothing falls through the cracks, the town has secured the services of the engineering firm of Stewart, Inc. “They have begun their field survey so they can do a self-assessment,’’ Sisko said. “It has to do with streets and sidewalks, facilities and programs.’’

Sisko said he’s already learned some things about ADA compliance that the casual observer likely wouldn’t even think of. A great example is the official town website. Under ADA regulations, it must be made accessible to people who having hearing or vision problems that makes normal interaction with a website difficult. 

That’s why it’s good to have a company like Stewart helping with the evaluation. “They are subject matter experts on this,’’ Sisko said. “The ADA law is itself is written in legalese. It’s good to have a good subject matter expert on your side to make sure you get done what needs to be done.’’

Toward the end of getting things done, the town has hired a specialist to help oversee the ADA compliance issue. Bruce Clark is the ADA coordinator for the town and has been in that position for about a month. “He’s ramrodding this part of the project,’’ Sisko said. 

In addition to the work that is being done by Stewart, the town will be soliciting public input through a variety of outlets . Sisko said it would be similar to the responses the town sought when the comprehensive recreation plan was being developed. “There are going to be public meetings advertised and surveys put out so we can actually get public input on it,’’ he said. “That will all be collated to help us develop a priority listing.’’

Sisko added that Chancer McLaughlin, administrator of development and planning for the town, will coordinate the public input effort.

The work to complete making the town ADA compliant won’t be completed in a short time. “We are realistically trying to get our plan set up to do everything within about 10 years,’’ Sisko said.

He added that the Board of Commissioners is on board and has money budgeted once the areas of need have been identified. They already began last year with upgrading the computer program for the town website. “This year we are starting to look at some of the physical things as well,’’ Sisko said. “We are waiting until we get the report back from Stewart.’’

But there is some work ongoing. The mill house that is being converted into a museum will require a wall to be removed so the bathroom can be modified to make it ADA compliant.

Work was recently completed on the new bulkhead at Hope Mills Lake, which included the installment of a ramp leading to the kayak launch and swim areas.

“That’s the last project we had on the books that we’ve completed,’’ Sisko said of the ramp at the bulkhead. “We are looking at pressing forward and going back to past practices and making the corrections on those, bringing that to compliance.’’

Sisko noted that anyone with concerns about ADA compliance in the town should contact Clark. His phone number is 910-429-3387, and his email is bclark@townofhopemills.com.

“We’ll do our outright best to make sure whatever is brought to our attention either gets corrected or is programmed for correction,’’ Sisko said. 

Clark said the town already developed a public awareness notice that can be seen at all facilities open to the public as well as on the town’s website and all of its social media sites.

“It’s basically a position statement on where we stand in providing compliancy with ADA in our facilities and our programs,’’ Clark said.

“The 1,000-yard view of this program, of what we’re trying to get established here, is equal access, basically, equal access for everybody to our programs, to our facilities.’’

Fall football preview: Seventy-First

Coach: Duran McLaurin

2018 record: 11-4

Top returners: Kore’ Prentice-Coles, 5-9, 170, Sr., WR/DB; Jermaine Johnson, 5-9, 170, Sr., WR/DB; Ezra Brown, 5-10, 165, Sr., DB; Jamarious Simmons, 5-10, 175, Sr., QB/DB; Russell Hewitt, 5-10, 275, Sr., DL/OL; Isaac Jackson, 5-10, 285, Sr., DL/OL; Jashawn Owens, 5-11, 230, Sr., LB/TE; Twan Anderson, 6-1, 195, So., DL/TE; Tylon Shropshire, 5-10, 285, So., DL; Anthony Osbourne, 5-8, 180, Sr., RB; Jalen Moore, 6-2, 185, Sr., DB.

Top newcomers: Jamari Stallion, 5-9, 165, So., WR; Trevon Bolden, 6-2, 175, Jr., WR; Jaelon Macdonald, 5-9, 263, Jr., OL; Julius Riley, 5-9, 155, So., WR; Donovan Wright, 5-11, 170, Jr., RB; Christopher Ferguson, 5-7, 135, Jr., DB; Marquis Smith, 5-9, 263, Jr., FB; Jaysiah Leach, 6-0, 280, Jr., OL.

Team strengths: “The team will be extremely physical. The team is returning productive players."

 Pictured: Kore’ Prentice-Coles, Ezra Brown

A North Carolina Department of Transportation highway improvement program in Fayetteville will likely affect local traffic for years to come. Planning and development are underway on a project to replace the center turn lane along Raeford Road with a median. The undertaking will involve more than 6 miles of Raeford Road between Old Raeford Road in West Fayetteville and Robeson Street in the Highland Village area. The nearly $150 million project will result in a roadway resembling Ramsey Street, which was reconstructed several years ago. DOT will reconstruct the road into what’s known as a superstreet design by replacing the two-way center turn lane with a raised concrete median or landscaped area. The superstreet design will result in the elimination of numerous cross streets, which will require motorists to turn right and make U-turns at signalized intersections. 

DOT says the construction will be divided into three segments, beginning at the western end where Raeford Road intersects with Old Raeford Road. The section will include the area eastward to Bunce Road. The second segment of the plan will be from Bunce Road to the combined intersection of Glensford Drive and Hope Mills Road. The final segment will take the project through the in-town commercial district to Robeson Street. 

Each segment will be funded separately as construction contracts are awarded. DOT said the road’s reconstruction will improve traffic flow and pedestrian access. The N.C. Board of Transportation is scheduled to fund the first segment in February with construction to begin in the spring of 2020.

The state said Raeford Road is one of Fayetteville’s most congested and dangerous routes. According to the Raeford Road Corridor Study’s final report in 2010, about 78% of the crashes occurred between intersections, a statistic that highlighted DOT’s safety concern of the numerous cross street and driveway openings along the route. The Raeford Road corridor has a higher-than-average crash rate because motorists must cross several lanes of traffic to turn left. There will be 11 directional crossover intersections. Crossovers allow traffic on Raeford Road to turn left while preventing side-street traffic from going straight across or making a left turn at the same location. 

Other improvements to Raeford Road include adding a third travel lane westbound between Graham Road and Old Raeford Road and adding a third travel lane eastbound between Graham Road and Bunce Road. Sidewalks will be built on both sides of the road. As part of the project, the road’s T-intersection with Skibo Road, where traffic often backs up, will be redesigned. A new southbound exit ramp will be built from the All-American Freeway for motorists wanting to go west onto Raeford Road. The freeway’s existing southbound off-ramp will continue to be used to head east onto Raeford Road. 

For more information, this undertaking is listed as Project U-4405 in the N.C. DOT’s State Transportation Improvement Program.

Planning and development are underway on a project to replace the center turn lane along Raeford Road with a median. 

Love him or loathe him, Americans know a great deal about Donald Trump. We know about his three marriages to foreign-born and/or women who model. We know about his five children with three different mothers, and we know about his nonexistent wellness routine involving a penchant for fast food. 

We know much less about the personal lives and habits of most of the contenders for the Democratic nomination, all of whom want to oust Trump. At last Google, 24 Democrats — not all of them household names by any means — have announced the candidacies. Most of us know next to nothing about most of them — other than political positions, and probably not much of those. 

In addition, for only the second time in United States history, there is a chance that the presidential spouse might actually be a first gentleman, not a first lady. Here are three men staring at that possibility. 

The Huffington Postsays Bruce Mann is the husband Elizabeth Warren refers to as “sweetie.” The presidential hopeful couple live in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with Bailey, their golden retriever, when they are not on the campaign trail. Married for nearly 39 years, they met at a law conference in Florida and married in 1980, after Warren proposed to Mann in a college classroom. Like his wife, Mann’s career has been as a law professor, though she got tenure at Harvard before he did. Huff Post speculates that Mann, who favors front-zip sweaters, would wear traditional suits by American designers for inaugural events.

Kamala Harris also married a fellow lawyer, Douglas Emhoff, a partner in a Los Angeles-Washington firm and a transplanted New Yorker. The two met on a blind date set up by a mutual friend. Shortly thereafter, Emhoff dropped to his knee and proposed. Harris said yes, and they celebrate their fifth anniversary this month. Harris calls Emhoff her best friend and sous chef, because they enjoy cooking together. Emhoff is Jewish, and Huff Post speculates that his holiday theme for the White House would involve multi-cultural celebrations.

Jonathan Gillibrand, whose presidential-hopeful wife, Kristen, took his name when they married in 2001, is a British national and business consultant. The couple met on a blind date. When he proposed using a snowball as a prop to hold the engagement ring, the bride-to-be almost threw the snowball at a squirrel before she realized she should open it. The couple has two sons. Huff Post speculates that he would want pints of Guinness served at the White House Christmas Party.

Huff Post forgot a fourth potential first gentleman, Chasten Buttigieg, husband of Pete Buttigieg. At 29, he is by far the youngest of the first gentleman hopefuls. At the moment, he is on leave from his job as a Montessori teacher in South Bend, Indiana, helping his husband campaign for president. The couple met four years ago and married in June of 2018, making them potentially the first same-sex couple to live in the White House. Chasten Buttigieg has been quoted as saying his priorities as first gentleman would be improving public education, access to arts education, and mental health.

Moving along, other aspects of the campaign trail are getting attention as well. 

The Huff Post also wanted to know how candidates in the crowded field are taking care of themselves — physically, mentally and spiritually. 

Cory Booker says that in the mornings he exercises, meditates and reads something not given to him by his staff.

Kamala Harris says she goes to spin cycle classes and cooks for herself, adding this. “You have to work out. … It has nothing to do with your weight. It’s about your mind.”

Kirsten Gillibrand works out in the early mornings in women-owned studios and also attends Christian worship services.

And, former Vice President Joe Biden? According to his staff, Biden stops regularly on the campaign trail for a scoop or two of ice cream, which they view as a form of self-care.

Perhaps that is why Biden remains the Democratic frontrunner.

Development plans are underway on a proposed project to widen 25 miles of I-95 to eight lanes between Exit 56 in Cumberland County and I-40, Exit 81, in Johnston County, including all of Harnett County. Proposed work includes rebuilding at least six interchanges with new overpasses, loops and ramps. Additionally, service roads will be realigned or shifted to meet modern design standards. The portion of I-95 being proposed for this project has the highest traffic volumes in the state, reaching nearly 60,000 vehicles a day, according to a 2016 survey. The proposal should ease congestion and accommodate future growth in traffic along the north-south interstate. I-95 is also scheduled for widening to eight lanes in Robeson County and lower Cumberland County between mile marker 22 in Lumberton to mile marker 40. Construction of this segment isn’t scheduled to begin until 2028.

Hospital executive named to national agency

Dr. Roxie Wells has been elected to the American Hospital Association’s Board of Trustees. The term is for three years beginning Jan. 1, 2020. Wells is president of Cape Fear Valley Hoke Healthcare, where she manages Hoke Hospital and its associated outpatient clinics. She also serves as an associate chief medical officer for the health system. The Fayetteville State University graduate received her medical degree from East Carolina University’s Brody School of Medicine in Greenville. She Joined Cape Fear Valley Health in 2010 as a family practice physician at Stedman Medical Care. Wells’ work led to partnerships with Bladen County Health Department and EMS, as well as increased access to primary care services in the primarily rural county. 

State Trooper recovering from serious injuries

On the morning of July 22, Trooper Chris Wooten was seriously injured as a result of a collision in Charlotte. Wooten was pursuing a motorist on his motorcycle when he was struck by a truck. He has been hospitalized receiving around-the-clock care because of the serious nature of his injuries. He was recently transferred from Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte to Shepherd Rehabilitation Center in Atlanta where his treatment process continues. 

“The overwhelming amount of support offered by our law enforcement partners, medical staff, other first responders and the public is unmatched and truly expresses the appreciation for Chris’ law enforcement service,” said Colonel Glenn McNeill Jr., commander of the State Highway Patrol. 

For those wishing to provide financial assistance to the Wooten family, an account under Christopher and Sharon Wooten Special Account has been established at the North Carolina State Employees Credit Union.

Register of Deeds office honored

The Cumberland County Register of Deeds office received an International Association of Government Officials Innovator Award at the association’s annual conference held in Houston, Texas, in July. The Register of Deeds received the honor in recognition of technology upgrades to better serve customers. The upgrades include electronic recordings, online vital records, instant recording of real estate records, three marriage license kiosks and the ability to submit the date for a marriage license online. 

“It is an honor for our office to be recognized by an organization that has members in most states across the United States as well as a number of foreign countries,” Register of Deeds Lee Warren said. 

In addition to technology upgrades, the selection committee also considered the Register of Deeds annual Book Bag Drive for homeless children in Cumberland County Schools. The book bag drive has benefited an estimated 650 homeless school children. The Highlands Chapter of the American Red Cross also received funds to help families who have experienced disasters. 

Hurricane season is upon us 

Hurricane season is here, and Cape Fear Valley Health System has a jump on preparations, thanks to a new emergency water pump system. Costing nearly $380,000, the system went online in late July. It is located on Cape Fear Valley Medical Center’s campus and includes two new water wells and three large storage tanks. The upgrades were paid for by a grant from the Golden LEAF Foundation’s Disaster Recovery Program. 

“We’re really excited about the new system,” said James Bullard, Cape Fear Valley Health’s emergency management coordinator, “especially since all the water will be potable.”

Cape Fear Valley sought to upgrade its backup water system in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew in 2016. The storm knocked out water pressure to the medical center’s main campus for nearly a week, crippling services to patients. Bottled water was brought in by the truckloads for patients and visitors. The new system pulls water from new wells behind Cape Fear Valley Medical Center at a rate of more than 200 gallons per minute. The water is stored in three large 8,000-gallon storage tanks where it is filtered and treated. 

With local theaters and performing arts groups rolling out their season schedules, there are plenty of top-notch performances from which to choose.

Fayetteville Dinner Theatre

The Fayetteville Dinner Theatre, Gates Four Golf and Country Club and Sweet Tea Shakespeare present “HamLIT,” Sept. 27-28. Imagine, if you will, the writers, director and actors of Shakespeare’s beloved “Hamlet” know the story they want to tell, but they get lost at a fraternity party on their way to the show. Each performance includes a full-service cash bar and wine tasting, duel entrée dinner with two sides. For more information, call 910-391-3859.

Cape Fear Regional Theatre

This season, Cape Fear Regional Theatre offers another great lineup, starting with “Mamma Mia!” The play tells the story of young Sophie, who, seeking to find her father, invites three men from her mother’s past to her wedding. It runs Sept. 12- Oct. 9.

“No Child” is next in the lineup with a look into the way teachers change lives and build community. Anyone who has taught, attended or has loved ones who attend public school will love it. “No Child” runs Oct. 31-Nov. 17.

Shrek the ogre and his sassy sidekick Donkey take the stage Jan.23-Feb. 16 as the pair set out to rescue an unconventional princess. A show for kids and adults alike, if you liked the movie, CFRT promises you will love the musical. “Shrek” runs Jan. 23-Feb. 16.

“Murder for Two,” is not only a mystery. It’s a barrel of laughs. With one actor playing the investigator and the other playing all 13 suspects — and both playing the piano — this musical comedy/whodunit will have you dying of laughter. It’s onstage March 5-22.

Next up, April 9-26, “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” goes straight for your heartstrings. Mrs. Shear’s dog is dead and 15-year-old Christopher is determined to find out what happened. 

The season closes with “Jelly’s Last Jam,” May 14-31. Join jazz pioneer Jelly Morton as he gets a second chance at life. The audience will follow Jelly from the steamy back alleys of New Orleans to the brightly lit stages of New York as he makes good for past mistakes. 

Learn more about CFRT at cfrt.org.

Gilbert Theater

The Gilbert Theater is a semi-professional community-minded theater company and conservatory with a mission to “ … produce creative, innovative plays and events to stir audiences and students of its conservatory to explore and contemplate the human condition through the talents of local and guest artists.”

The 2019-20 season opens with “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” which runs Sept. 20-Oct. 6. 

“It’s a Wonderful Life” has become a holiday tradition at the Gilbert, and this year does not disappoint. It opens Nov. 22 and runs through Dec. 15. 

“Ruins,” a comedy/drama by Montgomery Sutton, is up next onstage from Jan. 24-Feb. 9. 

Get ready for some of the classics with “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare — Abridged” March 20-April 5.

The season closes with “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.”

Find out more about Gilbert Theater at gilberttheater.com.

Givens Performing Arts Center

Givens Performing Arts Center in Pembroke has a reputation as a top-notch venue for entertainment. Season ticket holders are invited to upgrade their ticket status and join the Act 1 Diner’s Club. The Diner’s Club includes dinner before specific performances, for just $35. The dinners are served in the Chancellor’s Dining room in the James B. Chavis Center. Learn more about Act 1 at https://www.uncp.edu/resources/gpac/act-1-diners-club.

With five Grammy Awards and an induction into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, The Blind Boys of Alabama have been in the music business for more than 70 years. From traditional gospel music to spiritual works by songwriters like Eric Clapton, Prince and Tom Waits, the group has appeared on recordings with many artists, including Lou Reed, Peter Gabriel, Bonnie Raitt, Willie Nelson, Aaron Neville, Susan Tedeschi, Ben Harper, Patty Griffin and more. They will be onstage at GPAC Sept. 12.

Josh Knott’s and Lea return to the stage with new acts for “Extreme Illusions and Escapes,” Sept. 20. The pair have won the 2016 Merlin Award and the 2016 Fair Award for achieving the highest level in their craft on both national and international stages. Inspired by Las Vegas-style shows, this performance is fast-paced and includes a variety of stunts — and plenty of audience participation.

Oct. 11 brings “Queen Nation” to Givens. The 90-minute production of Queen’s greatest hits offers tribute to one of rock’s iconic bands. 

“Cirque Mei”from the People’s Republic of China showcases traditional and contemporary Chinese circus acts. The performance showcases 40 elite circus artists and acrobats, who will perform many of the most popular Chinese circus routines including Hoops Diving, Lion Dance, Collective Bicycle Skills, Flying Meteors, Foot Juggling with Umbrellas, Female Contortion and Ladder Balancing Act. The “Cirque Mei”performance is set for Oct. 27.

“Noises Off!” is a comedy by Michael Flynn that has received rave reviews. It’s opening night of the play “Nothing On,” and things couldn’t be worse. Full of glorious surprises and delicious comedy — and the audience gets to see the pandemonium unfold backstage. “Noises Off!” is scheduled for Nov. 14-15.”

Nov. 22, don’t miss the Holiday Extravaganza, which celebrates the holidays with the talented students and faculty of UNCP students and faculty. Enjoy all your holiday favorites performed by choirs, ensembles and more. And don’t miss “Tuba Christmas,” a preshow miniconcert.

Nov. 24, celebrate the holidays with “The Nutcracker,” presented by Dance Alive National Ballet, complete with beautiful costumes and sets and incredibly talented dancers for the Christmas season. 

“Bandstand” a Tony Award-winning Broadway Musical comes to GPAC Jan. 29. Bringing foot-tapping music and heart-stopping dancing, the story unfolds in 1945 just as soldiers return from World War II. 

The New York Times describes the show as “both a peppy celebration of can-do spirit and a more somber exploration of what American servicemen experienced when they marched home from World War II. It’s a great argument for why theater can sometimes tell a story more boldly and more viscerally.” 

GPAC hosts the Siberian State Symphony Orchestra Feb. 18. Founded in 1977, the orchestra quickly won a reputation as one of the best orchestras from Russia. The orchestra plays with the finest Russian soloists and plays the great Russian classics.

Winning a 2016 Tony Award for Best Musical Revival, “The Color Purple” is a classic story about love and triumph in the American South in the early 1900s. It will be onstage at GPAC March 2. The music includes jazz, gospel, ragtime and blues. 

The GPAC season closes April 28 with “An American in Paris.” Bringing romance and adventure to the stage, this production tells the story of life in postwar Paris as World War II veteran chooses to make a name for himself as a painter in Paris. Then he meets Lise, a young Parisian woman who complicates his life greatly. 

Find out more about GPAC and all it has to offer at https://www.uncp.edu/resources/gpac/professional-artist-series.   

Sweet Tea Shakespeare

Fayetteville’s favorite roaming theater troupe has a busy season ahead.

“HamLIT” brings comedy and hijinx to the Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County Oct. 4 and runs until Nov. 1. The show plays at Dirtbag Ales in Hope Mills Oct. 10 before moving on to venues in Sanford, Fuquay-Varina and Benson. Come ready to laugh.

STS celebrates the holidays with “Behold,” a Christmas concert featuring familiar gospel tunes. The show focuses on Mary’s story. It’s a stirring and heartfelt show, sure to put you in the holiday spirit. It runs Dec. 4-14.

Jan. 2-15 STS tells a tale of ambition and evil, featuring a king, witches, murder plots and more as “Macbeth” comes to Fayetteville before heading to Raleigh Jan. 23-26.

Lovers, mischievous fairies and well-intentioned actors come together in the comedy “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” It plays April 23-26 at Fayetteville State University and April 30-May 3 at the Poe House at the Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex.

Inspired by Chaucer’s “The Canterbury Tales,” “Knight’s Tale” runs June 4-21 at the 1897 Poe House. 

Find out more about the Sweet Tea Shakespeare season at http://www.sweetteashakespeare.com.