City of Fayetteville Update
The Fayetteville City Council met with members of the Cumberland County delegation on Thursday, Feb. 6 for dinner and discussion on state needs.
The Cumberland County NC state delegation includes state Rep. Mike Colvin, Rep. Frances Jackson, Rep. Charles Smith, Rep. Diane Wheatley, Sen. Val Applewhite and Sen. Tom McInnis. Also present were Cumberland County Board of Commissioners Kirk deViere, who serves as chair, and Commissioner Henry Tyson.
$29.5 million in state funding was requested for the 2025 with prioritized requests including:
• $4 million for mental health co-response, homeless support, and community-based violence interruption programs within the Office of Community Safety;
• $2 million for Affordable and Workforce Housing Initiatives;
• $500,000 for a transportation connectivity study (I-685, rail and surface transportation)
• $5 million to expand sewer and water infrastructure;
• $10 million for pedestrian and safety projects;
• $1 million for workforce development initiatives including STEM and NextGen workforce growth opportunities;
• $3 million for planning and feasibility of a regional public safety training center;
• $2 million for Cape Fear River Park Trail Extension Phase II;
• $2 million for Solid Waste & Transit facility modernization and improvements.
Discussions also included an equitable tax distribution, a direct flight to DC from the Fayetteville Regional Airport, public safety personnel recruitment and retention, a Rail to Raleigh initiative and the need for affordable and workforce housing.
Mayor Pro Tem Kathy Jensen said that the City of Fayetteville was also exploring other flight paths to add to the schedule at Fayetteville Regional Airport.
McInnis said that there needs to be less regulation in permitting in order to build housing.
At their Feb. 10 meeting, the City Council approved an intergovernmental service agreement with Fort Bragg for solid waste. Fayetteville will now manage solid waste services on post.
They also approved $1.9 million to pay a local contractor M&E Contracting Inc. to finish the Mazarick Park Tennis Center on Filter Plant Road.

Cumberland County
The Cumberland County Board of Commissioners adopted a Federal Legislative Agenda at their Feb. 13 meeting. These are county priorities to be advocated for on a federal level and include:
• Secure funding for safe, regulated drinking water in contaminated areas;
• Secure funding and services for individuals with mental health and substance abuse challenges;
• Seek funding for infrastructure improvements, PFAS removal, and organic waste processing;
• Prioritize funding for specialized training, detention facility improvements, and modern technology for the Sheriff’s Office;
• Secure funding to maintain services and expand breastfeeding programs;
• Support legislation for stronger child welfare services and improve funding for key programs;
• Strengthen infrastructure for senior services and support aging-related federal initiatives;
• Advocate for USDA payment reforms;
• Support childcare tax credits and provider assistance;
• Support the I-685/I-295 Cumberland County connection project;
• Secure additional funding for Veterans Services Offices;
• Funding to ensure compliance with DOJ’s mandate for ADA-accessible content by April 2026 deadline.
At their Feb. 17 meeting, the board adopted a resolution supporting $93.5 million in funding requests on a state level after a meeting with the Cumberland County state legislative delegation on Feb. 10. The priorities included:
• $5 million for public water infrastructure for the Gray’s Creek Water and Sewer District water expansion project and $50 million for public water and sewer county-wide infrastructure;
• $30 million, including $15 million of direct State appropriations for infrastructure needs and $15 million for a new state-of-the-art school;
• $4 million to expand comprehensive mental health and substance use treatment services for youth;
• $2 million for Regional Aquatic Center preconstruction needs;
• $2 million for a Mobile Incident Command Unit for Emergency Services and $500,000 for Digital Dispatch Equipment for Cumberland County’s Fire Chiefs Association;

Joint City of Fayetteville — Cumberland County Liaison Committee
Members of the Fayetteville City Council and Cumberland County Board of Commissioners met on Feb. 17 to discuss public safety with presentations from the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office, the Cumberland County Fire Chiefs Association, the City of Fayetteville Fire Department and the City of Fayetteville Police Department.
The city and county meet jointly to discuss ways they can further collaborate and communicate effectively. Committee members include Board of Commissioners Vice Chairwoman Veronica Jones, Committee Chair; Chairman Kirk deViere and Commissioner Pavan Patel; Fayetteville Mayor Pro Tem Kathy Jensen, Committee Co-Chair; Mayor Mitch Colvin; and Councilwoman Courtney Banks-McLaughlin.
The next meeting will be held on March 17 in the Judge E. Maurice Braswell Cumberland County Courthouse.

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 in shaping policies, driving economic success, and building a thriving business community—together. To learn more, visit www.faybiz.com.

(Photo courtesy of Cumberland County NC Government Facebook Page)

In one of my all-time favorite songs, Loves Me Like a Rock, Paul Simon poses the rhetorical question, “Who, who do you think you’re fooling?” Well, I would like to ask weekend news anchor turned fledgling Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth who the heck he thinks he’s fooling by renaming Fort Liberty (nee Fort Bragg) Fort Bragg all over again. Exit the original 1918 honoree, Civil War General Braxton Bragg, and enter World War II honoree Private First Class Roland Bragg.
It is a fair bet that most Americans will never know that and will not care if they do realize what has happened.
The situation is that now President Donald Trump made changing the name of the most populous military base in the country back to Fort Bragg a campaign issue. He did so because the millions of people who have passed through the base think of it by that name and because “lost cause” and white nationalist supporters in his base were upset when Confederate Braxton Bragg was stripped of that honor.
A little history here. In 2021, Congress mandated the renaming of all military bases honoring Confederate soldiers, and 9 bases were indeed renamed in 2023. Change is hard for most people, and these changes were no exception. Layer on the political and racial tensions still swirling around the Civil War 160 years later with a hard-fought, highly divisive Presidential race and here we are.
Historians and scholars debate the question of renaming buildings, monuments, military bases, and such for people who are later disgraced in some way, in this case for supporting slavery and attempting to divide our nation. We cannot erase history, they argue, so it is better to focus on explaining it accurately and teaching it to future generations. It is a reasonable argument.
In addition, we seek to erase Braxton Bragg and the 8 other Confederates honored with military bases named for them, but we continue to honor others who also supported positions and realities we now find repugnant and unworthy. George Washington and Thomas Jefferson were both slave owners, but have you ever heard anyone advocating renaming or destroying the Washington Monument or the Jefferson Memorial? Is renaming just for those lesser than a Founding Father?
But back to the various Braggs.
Out of the millions of United States veterans, Roland Bragg was one of at least 5 soldiers named Bragg considered for the renaming. The list also included a US Ambassador and Congressman and a woman pilot who helped open flight training for black pilots at 5 locations, including the famed Tuskegee Institute. The operative word here, of course, is Bragg, because the whole idea was to go back to the future.
That said, Roland Bragg, was a hero in a way the mediocre Braxton Bragg was not. As 21-year-old paratrooper from Maine, Roland Bragg earned the Silver Star and 2 Purple Hearts for his service, which included stealing a Nazi ambulance, loading up 4 wounded US paratroopers, and driving them 20 miles through active gunfire to an allied hospital. Bragg believed that all 4 died of their wounds until he received a letter from one of them in 1993 and they reunited.
However worthy this enlisted man is, it is hard to get around the deep cynicism of this renaming. It is less to honor a hero than to wink at and perpetuate history and ways of thinking that millions of Americans find increasingly offensive and a violation of the spirit of the law passed by Congress in 2020. It is a sleight of hand that most Americans will never know happened.
So, “who,” Pete Hegseth, “who do you think you’re fooling?”

Every citizen who meets the basic requirements — adulthood, residency, and the completion of sentence after a felony conviction — can cast a ballot in North Carolina. There’s no test of civic knowledge required to exercise the civil right to vote, nor should there be. (Our state constitution still contains a Jim Crow-era literacy test to vote, but it’s vestigial and unenforceable.)
That having been said, effective self-government is difficult to sustain when voters lack basic information about candidates, issues, and our constitutional system. Surveys show such ignorance is especially prevalent among young people. In a recent poll of Americans aged 18 to 24, only a quarter knew the vice president breaks ties in the U.S. Senate. Most thought the Electoral College had responsibilities other than electing presidents, such as regulating campaign finance or certifying congressional elections.
Here in North Carolina, the latest High Point University poll tested the political knowledge of state residents. Some of the results, while troubling, fell short of catastrophic. Most respondents to the survey, conducted in late January, knew that Republicans currently control the U.S. House of Representatives, though 13% said the Democrats did and 22% were unsure. Two-thirds identified the GOP as the more conservative party and 55% knew that the U.S. Supreme Court was the federal branch empowered to declare a law unconstitutional.
But North Carolinians flubbed this question: “As far as you know, does the federal government spend more on Social Security or foreign aid?”
Just 21% knew the correct answer. Social Security accounts for one-fifth of total federal spending. Foreign aid is about 1%. Alas, most North Carolinians thought either that foreign aid was the bigger expenditure (41%) or that the U.S. spent about the same on foreign aid and Social Security (10%). The rest admitted they didn’t know.
I concede that civic knowledge isn’t a game of Jeopardy. Voters need not know which president prosecuted the Mexican-American War (North Carolina’s own James K. Polk) or was the first to be impeached (another native Tar Heel, Andrew Johnson) in order to exercise their franchise responsibly. Still, as America continues to stumble toward a fiscal crisis of unprecedented magnitude, far too few of us have a firm grasp on its primary causes and probable consequences.
If present trends continue, publicly held federal debt (excluding debts owed by one part of the government to another) will hit a record 106% of gross domestic product in 2027 and shoot up to 122% of GDP by 2034. Washington is now spending more on interest payments to bondholders than on national defense.
The U.S. House has just approved budget targets that, if fully implemented in subsequent legislation, would extend the tax cuts enacted during President Trump’s first term (generally good) and reduce future spending growth by trillions of dollars (also good). Unfortunately, under all reasonable scenarios, it also guarantees multi-trillion-dollar deficits as far as the eye can see.
Why aren’t voters more upset about all this? The reason isn’t a lack of concern. The vast majority say they worry “a great deal” or a “fair amount” about federal spending and deficits. The problem is that they misunderstand the causes and underestimate the necessary remedies. Far too many left-leaning people think it’s largely a revenue matter and can be addressed by hiking taxes on millionaires and billionaires. As I’ve pointed out many times, doing so might realistically nudge federal revenues up modestly as a share of GDP, by a percentage point or so. But our deficits are running closer to 7% of GDP.
Far too many right-leaning people believe combating fraud and axing a few programs like foreign aid will do the job. Nah. The sum of Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, national defense, and debt service represents 76% of all federal spending. Eliminate every other federal expenditure and that still wouldn’t balance the budget (Washington currently finances nearly 30% of its budget by borrowing).
Voters deserve to know the truth. They deserve politicians willing to speak it.

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).

Success in life requires determination, resilience, and a commitment to the pursuit of excellence. For military service members, success also requires a strong support system like the one offered by Fayetteville Technical Community College’s Military & Veterans Program.
I’m Christian "Nate" Valentin, and my story is a prime example of how FTCC’s MVP can make a difference while serving those of us who serve or have served in the military. With the team at both the Fort Bragg Training and Education Center and the All American Veterans Center on the Fayetteville campus, FTCC is genuinely dedicated to helping military and veteran students, along with their families, succeed.
I was born in the Philippines, and growing up, my family instilled in me strong values like character, knowledge, and a solid work ethic — values that have shaped both my military career and my academic pursuits. These principles stuck with me when I moved to Los Angeles in 2017. I worked odd jobs while attending high school and stayed involved in sports to help build leadership skills and a sense of teamwork.
In July 2019, I enlisted in the U.S. Army as a 92R Parachute Rigger. While serving, I stayed committed to my education, constantly pushing myself to improve both professionally and academically. FTCC made it possible for me to excel while balancing my active duty service with higher education. FTCC’s flexible programs, supportive environment, and encouraging instructors were the keys to my success.
FTCC’s support has gone beyond helping me earn my degree. The team here was crucial in helping me get accepted into the Army Green to Gold program, a program that allows enlisted soldiers to earn a commission as an officer. This is a major step for me, as it will allow me to become an Army officer, and eventually pursue my goal of becoming a pilot. I’m also working on short-term goals, like earning my Jumpmaster and Free Fall certifications and aiming for the rank of Staff Sergeant. I have a clear vision for the future, and my next step is to complete my bachelor’s degree. Ultimately, I plan to retire from the U.S. Army with a fulfilling career.
I hope my journey can inspire other military and veteran students. FTCC has provided me with an amazing support system, and I’m proud of the progress I’ve made. If you or someone you know is military-affiliated and interested in higher education — whether in-person or online — FTCC’s All American Veterans Center is ready to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them at military@faytechcc.edu or vso@faytechcc.edu, or call 910-678-8580 for more information. You can also visit the All American Veterans Center at the Fayetteville campus or the military services office located at Fort Bragg. The MVP team is here to help make your success story a reality.

(Photo courtesy of FTCC)

The president of the United States today sends troops to fight in distant lands for long periods, enters into binding agreements with foreign powers, and takes other extraordinary actions, all without prior approval from Congress.
Presidential candidates promise to reverse their predecessors’ agreements on the first day they take office. And they confidently promise to take other dramatic and costly actions unilaterally on that same first day.
We have come to expect, even demand, such power plays from our presidents. So, it is fair to ask what explains the enormous growth of presidential power from its lowly state in the late 19th century to the imperial presidency of today.
One man, retired UNC-Chapel Hill history professor William Leuchtenburg, who died last month at the age of 102, spent much of his life explaining the growth of presidential power. For example, ten years ago, he gave us one response to this question in the form of a book, “The American President: From Teddy Roosevelt to Bill Clinton.”
That book follows the expansion of presidential power during the 20th century, showing how it grew in periods of reform to responses to domestic challenges and during the two World Wars, Korea, Vietnam, and the War on Terror.
Reviewing this book in “The American Scholar,” Michael Sherry wrote that Leuchtenburg “is perhaps today’s greatest presidential historian, and not of the presidency as some insular realm, but as it intersected with national life, which makes this book also a history of the nation in the 20th century.”
Not surprisingly, Leuchtenburg’s answer to the question about the growth of presidential power is not a simple one-liner. In fact, it is a big 800-pager. That might be bad news for readers of other books, but this author’s great story-telling gifts and a long lifetime of thoughtful study make each instructive page a pleasure.
Filmmaker Ken Burns, himself a great storyteller, explains Leuchtenburg’s contribution better than I can.
"This is a riveting narrative, written by someone with a deep knowledge of the presidents and our complicated country. It seems an almost effortless work, but, of course, it's not. William Leuchtenburg has spent the better part of a century studying the mechanics of this republic and the men (so far) charged with leading it. The result here is a fast-paced, dramatic literary achievement that will be around and used for centuries."
Critics of Barack Obama’s use of executive agreements to bypass Congress on the Iran-nuclear arms and the Paris climate deals can blame Teddy Roosevelt. When the Senate refused to ratify a pact in 1905 with Santo Domingo, he simply made an executive agreement with the same terms. Later he explained. “The Constitution did not explicitly give me power to bring about the necessary agreement with Santo Domingo. But the Constitution did not forbid my doing what I did.”
Woodrow Wilson also expanded the role of the presidency, but surprisingly, according to Leuchtenburg, “he conducted a minimalist operation in the White House.” Wilson’s chief of staff was his only staff, “save for employees such as clerks.”
“With no speechwriters and very little technical support, the president had to handcraft documents. On an old portable typewriter, he banged out diplomatic notes to be sent over the signature of the secretary of state.”
Both Wilson, during the First World War, and Franklin Roosevelt, during the Second, took extraordinary actions as commander-in-chief that resulted in increased power for the office.
However, both of them got congressional authority before committing troops in those wars. But, Leuchtenburg writes, “after Truman’s unilateral action in Korea, the power vested in Congress alone to declare war became almost a relic.”
Important as understanding the origins of increased presidential power was to me, the book’s exploration of each president’s background, character, and family kept me turning the pages and, at the end, made me believe that I knew each of them as a close friend.
Thanks to William Leuchtenburg who made every reader a close friend to presidents.

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

Fayetteville has a long held tradition of basketball. Fayetteville State University, Methodist University and Fayetteville Technical Community College all boast their own teams, and high schools across the city have come together for various tournaments throughout the years.
Adding their voice to this mix, Fayetteville Liberty is hoping to bring even more basketball excitement to Fayettevillians.
"Fayetteville is a basketball town with a strong sports culture, yet many players feel they need to leave to pursue professional opportunities. We are here to change that narrative by providing a credible and sustainable program that offers local and international talent a legitimate pathway to professional basketball," said Robert L. Edwards Jr., Team Market Owner of the Fayetteville Liberty Basketball Pro Development Team.
Edwards is a veteran who served 17 years in the Army. Six of those years was here in Fayetteville.
He and his team officially formed Fayetteville Liberty on Dec. 12, 2024. The name was chosen to symbolize strength, resilience and community unity.
The team's first big event will be coming up on March 8, a combine held at the TJ Robinson Life Center in Hope Mills.
"The purpose of the combine is to identify and develop the best basketball talent for the Fayetteville Liberty while also giving exposure to players looking for professional opportunities," said Edwards. "We are inviting coaches, skill developers, and potential partners to evaluate talent. While the combine is primarily for building our roster, it is also an opportunity for players to showcase their skills to other teams and organizations."
The cost to enter the combine is $150 and includes a free combine jersey, a professional headshot on the Fayetteville Liberty backdrop and assessments by pro development coaches and skills testing agencies.
Registration is open for high school seniors, college level athletes and adult community league players. Doors will open at 8 a.m. for the event.
"Players from all over the world are invited, but our primary focus for this initial combine is on Fayetteville and surrounding areas. After the selection process, players can expect to participate in several training camps leading up to our flagship camp, where we will finalize our 10-12 player roster," said Edwards. "We want players to demonstrate not just their basketball ability but also their work ethic, attitude, and leadership qualities. This is an opportunity for serious athletes who want to take their careers to the next level."
The team behind Fayetteville Liberty will be working hard throughout 2025 to set themselves up for success in their inaugural season in 2026.
"Since 2025 is our campaign year, we are using this time to create collaborative opportunities, corporate partnerships, and sponsorships. The combine allows us to scout talent locally and internationally, ensuring we bring in the best possible players while also reflecting the character and values
of Fayetteville."
Edwards stressed that Fayetteville Liberty should feel like a local team.
"We want Fayetteville Liberty to look like its city—built by and for the community. Our goal is to give local players an opportunity to pursue professional basketball without feeling the need to leave the city to do so," he said.
Fayetteville Liberty is part of The Basketball League, a professional basketball association. The league has 38 teams as of 2024, and Fayetteville Liberty is joining the ranks, hopefully filled with talent from Fayetteville itself.
While Edwards and his team of coaches will be scouting out players for the roster, they will also be looking at building a Fayetteville Liberty Development Team, a sort of junior varsity version of the team.
"This will provide juniors and seniors in high school, as well as younger college athletes, with a structured training and development environment," he said. "This model operates much like an AAU team, ensuring that players who aren’t yet ready to make a professional leap still have a place to develop their skills within our system."
Registration is still open for the combine, although spots are limited. To register, visit https://www.faylibertync.com/combine
"Our goal is to make Fayetteville Liberty truly a team built for the community—a developmental asset that provides options and pathways for athletes at all stages of their careers," Edwards said.

Segra Stadium is set to host its inaugural Mac & Cheese Festival, a delectable culinary event that will delight food enthusiasts on Saturday, March 8. The four-hour festival, running from noon to 4 p.m., promises to be a celebration of everyone's favorite comfort food.
This exciting festival promises to be a culinary and entertainment extravaganza, featuring an extensive selection of gourmet mac & cheese variations and delectable food items for attendees to savor. The atmosphere will be electric with an in-house DJ spinning the latest tracks, while live wrestling matches unfold on the landing deck, providing non-stop entertainment throughout the event.
Adding to the festival's vibrant atmosphere, local artisans and craftspeople from Fayetteville's thriving creative community will showcase their unique handmade goods and artistic creations around the concourse. These talented vendors will display and promote their work, offering festival-goers the opportunity to discover and support local artists while enjoying the diverse array of mac & cheese dishes and entertainment options.
On the culinary side, Segra Stadium and Professional Sports Catering are joining forces to create an extraordinary mac & cheese experience that will delight food enthusiasts. The culinary team will be preparing an impressive array of signature mac & cheese creations, featuring diverse and innovative flavor combinations that push the boundaries of this beloved comfort food. Visitors can expect to sample unique variations that incorporate the classic cheesy pasta into creative dishes, each crafted with expert attention to detail and quality ingredients.
This gastronomic celebration, combined with the dynamic atmosphere of live music performances and thrilling wrestling matches, will transform Segra Stadium into a vibrant festival venue unlike anything previously seen in the Fayetteville area. The seamless integration of food, entertainment, and sports creates a one-of-a-kind event that promises to engage all the senses and provide an unforgettable experience for attendees.
For those eager to taste these culinary masterpieces, each mac & cheese sample will be available for $5 plus tax within the stadium grounds, allowing festival-goers to explore multiple flavors and discover their new favorites throughout the event.
Don't miss out on the fantastic early bird pricing for this exciting festival! General admission tickets are available at a discounted rate of $10 when purchased in advance, while day-of tickets will cost $20. Families with young children will be pleased to know that kids 3 and under can enter free of charge. For those seeking an enhanced experience, VIP tickets are offered at $65 in advance or $80 at the gate. The VIP package includes festival admission, exclusive early entry starting at 11 a.m., plus a special VIP punch card featuring 10 complimentary samples.
Purchase tickets and VIP packages here: https://www.milb.com/fayetteville/events/macandcheesefest

This month, in honor of Black History Month, we are spotlighting Black-owned restaurants in the area.

BARBARA ANN'S SOUTHERN FRIED CHICKEN
3740 S. Main St., Hope Mills
Mon.-Sun 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
910-491-5859
https://tinyurl.com/bdfabhv2
Barbara Ann's Southern Fried Chicken serves up homestyle comfort food in a relaxed atmosphere, featuring their signature crispy fried chicken, smoky turkey BBQ, and freshly baked golden cornbread.

BARRY'S PIZZERIA
8200 Cliffdale Rd.
Tues.-Sat. 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Sun. Noon-5 p.m.
910-491-2692
https://www.barryspizzeria.com
Visit Barry's Pizzeria for their mouthwatering selection of hand-tossed pizzas, available by the slice or whole pie, plus delicious subs, crispy wings, and other Italian American favorites.

CROWN FRIED CHICKEN
2013 Murchison Rd.
Mon.-Wed. 10 a.m.-1 a.m.
Thurs.-Sat. 10 a.m.-2 a.m.
Sun 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
910-488-3034
3404 Ramsey St.
Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-Midnight
Sun. 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
910-779-2261
https://tinyurl.com/48bmjwsv
Crown Fried Chicken, with its two convenient locations, has established itself as the go-to destination for casual dining enthusiasts seeking delicious fried chicken and hearty comfort food.

DAB'S SOUL FOOD CAFE
412 N Bragg Blvd.
Mon. 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
Tues.-Fri. 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m.
Sat. 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
910-436-0110
https://tinyurl.com/yunjvjaa
Dab's, a charming local cafe, is the creation of Alabama-born Antonia Adams. The cozy establishment delights customers with homestyle comfort food favorites, including creamy mac 'n' cheese, traditional shrimp and grits, and perfectly seasoned wings served with Southern hospitality.

FOOD 4 THE SOUL
6829 Fillyaw Rd. #102
Wed-Sat. 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Sun. Noon-6 p.m.
910-302-0116
https://tinyurl.com/4k9zh5fk
Food 4 The Soul is a full-service restaurant offering convenient take-out, prompt delivery, and comfortable dine-in options. A welcoming destination, known for authentic southern food prepared with care and tradition.

THE GARDEN CAFE
3421 Murchison Rd. Suite A
Tues.-Sat. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
910-619-5956
https://www.thegardencafes.com/
The Garden Cafe offers distinctive sandwiches, colorful salads, flavorful flatbreads, and premium Granny Smith apples. They prioritize freshly baked dishes and top-tier, natural ingredients that transform traditional favorites into exceptional meals.

HENLEY'S VINTAGE KITCHEN
1911-A Murchison Rd.
Tues.-Sun. 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
910-745-9816
https://henleysvintagekitchen.com/about/
Henley's is a cozy, welcoming dining establishment that combines traditional American dishes with Southern comfort food, creating a delightful menu that satisfies both classic and regional taste preferences.

LIBERTY ISLAND FOODS
5197 Bragg Blvd.
Tues.-Sun. 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
910-491-1990
https://libertyislandfoods.com/
Stop by Liberty Island Foods to experience authentic Caribbean cuisine, featuring zesty jerk chicken and caramelized plantains, all prepared using premium quality ingredients.

MELVIN'S AT RIVERSIDE
1130 Person St.
Tues.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
Fri. 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.
Sat. 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
Sun. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
910-339-3059
https://tinyurl.com/3z55ync8
Melvin's at Riverside offers classic Southern dishes including crispy fried chicken, simmered collard greens, and homestyle cornbread in a relaxed dining atmosphere. 

NITA’S KITCHEN
8200 Cliffdale Rd. #102
Tues.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Fri. 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
Sat. 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Sun. Noon-5 p.m.
910-867-9550
https://www.nitas--kitchen.com/
Nita's Kitchen is a beloved soul food restaurant specializing in comforting Southern classics like creamy mac 'n' cheese, perfectly seasoned fried chicken, and crispy, flavorful wings.

THE SALAD BOX & MORE
132 Person St.
Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
910-339-5701
https://thesaladboxeatery.com/
The Salad Box & More offers a diverse menu featuring build-your-own salads, fresh sandwiches, nutritious grain bowls, and refreshing smoothies for health-conscious diners.

SIMLO'S ISLAND CAFE
3057 Boone Trial Ext.
Mon.-Thurs. 10:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m.
Fri.-Sat. 10:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m.
Sun. 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
910-965-7783
https://tinyurl.com/4ej7eyyk
Simlo's, a proud veteran-owned and family-operated restaurant, serves genuine Jamaican cuisine, featuring traditional favorites like curry goat and tender oxtail in a welcoming atmosphere.

UPTOWN'S CHICKEN & WAFFLES
1707 Owen Dr.
Mon.-Tues. 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Wed 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
Thurs. 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Fri.-Sat. 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
910-676-8039
https://tinyurl.com/7kebu47a
Uptown's Chicken & Waffles is a welcoming establishment that specializes in Southern comfort cuisine. Their menu features signature dishes like crispy fried fish, creamy grits, and their famous chicken and waffles combination.

It has been two years since a planning committee formed to prepare Fayetteville for the Bicentennial Celebration of Lafayette’s Farewell tour. Now, the big days are right around the corner.
Hank Parfitt, who serves as chair for the committee, said that it has brought nearly 20 nonprofits together in collaboration. He explained that the committee represents a wide cross-section of the city and includes individuals from various non-profits, the school system, city and county government, art museums, and historical committees. Additionally, several subcommittees manage specific events.
Tuesday, March 4 and Wednesday, March 5 will be spent in remembrance and celebration of the Marquis de Lafayette, a Revolutionary War Hero and champion of human rights and liberty who left an indelible mark on American history, and whom Fayetteville was named for.

Tuesday, March 4th Events
Festivities will commence with the Lafayette Procession and Welcome on Tuesday. Lafayette, represented by Dr. Sam Powell, and other reenactors representing Lafayette’s son, George Washington Lafayette, and Governor Hutchins Burton will make an entrance at Cross Creek Park in a horse-drawn carriage with the Fayetteville Independent Light Infantry reenacting as bodyguards.
Parfitt explained that the procession is based on contemporaneous reports published in the Carolina Observer describing Lafayette’s visit to Fayetteville 200 years ago. The procession will conclude with a reception at the fellowship hall of First Presbyterian Church where visitors can enjoy coffee and croissants while mingling with each other and Lafayette.
David Mann, former president and current member of the Marquis de Lafayette chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution, who has been collaborating with Parfitt and others in preparation for the Procession and Welcome, said he wants residents to understand who the Marquis de Lafayette was.
“I thought it was important that we rally around this one event,” he shared, “it’s a combination ceremony and reenactment of Lafayette’s arrival in Fayetteville from Raleigh.”
Mann said he hopes attendees walk away with “a sense of unity and patriotism” inspired by the figure who he described as a champion of justice and equality.
“It was an ugly period in American history, but Lafayette was opposed to slavery and spoke out against the injustices of it, and I think it's important that we recognize that.”
Following the Procession and Welcome, Tuesday’s second event, the Farewell Tour Ball, will be held at The Ralph and Lida Huff Orangery at the Cape Fear Botanical Garden. The Lafayette Society described the event as, “A magical night dancing at a period costume ball in Lafayette’s honor.” The ball will feature dance master Jeremy Gershman who goes by the stage name “Charles Steplively,” engaging and directing attendees in English country dances accompanied by the historical music group Syllabub.
Gershman has been conducting dance workshops in the Fayetteville area to help prepare attendees for the ball but says that those unfamiliar with English country dancing are welcome, though they may not find the experience quite as fluid.
“People who've had a dance background in a different form would probably pick up what we're doing fairly easily, because I am purposely selecting dances that are more beginner level,” he shared.
He said that the 2-2.5 hours of dancing attendees will enjoy, is called “social dancing” for a reason. “You can't just dance with one person and the person you came with and just stay with them all night and kind of not talk with other people,” he explained. “You have to touch hands and laugh and smile and look at people as you go through all these figures.”
Janelle Preman, State Chair of the 200th Anniversary Lafayette Farewell tour and chair of the Farewell Tour Ball said that she thinks the Farewell tour celebrations are a “proud moment” for the city of Fayetteville.
“I think it is a fabulous opportunity to teach children and adults some American Revolution history and the importance of Lafayette's role for our nation,” she said.

Wednesday, March 5th Events
Wednesday will see celebrations equally as extravagant, beginning with Methodist University’s Lafayette Collection Open House, and ending with the Farewell Tour Dinner.
The Open House features the opportunity to view letters written by Lafayette and one of America’s largest collections of souvenirs from his Farewell Tour.
The Farewell Tour Dinner will be a feast for all the senses. Described by the Lafayette Society as an “exquisite dinner accompanied by live music and dramatic portrayals,” the dinner will be backdropped by an original play written and directed by Jeremy Fiebig, Fayetteville State University theatre professor and Sweet Tea Shakespeare founder. Accompanied by live music, guests will enjoy an elegant evening immersed in dramatic portrayals of Lafayette’s visit to Fayetteville as they eat.

Tuesday and Wednesday Events
Several opportunities will be open or run at regular intervals on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Mini tours of the Fayetteville Independent Light Infantry Armory and Lafayette Carriage will be running both days. According to the Lafayette Society, the community can “see the carriage that carried Lafayette through Fayetteville and learn about the Fayetteville Independent Light Infantry (his 1825 military escort) and Lafayette’s role in Fayetteville history.”
Several opportunities available Tuesday, Wednesday and beyond include: Explore Lafayette’s Legacy in Fayetteville, a self-guided tour available through Distinctly Fayetteville’s Lafayette Trail website or the free TravelStoreys app; Fayetteville History Museum’s display of Liberty Point Resolves and Lafayette-related items; The Arts Council of Fayetteville and Cumberland County’s art display featuring work by local artists that highlights Fayetteville as it relates to Lafayette; and the Museum of the Cape Fear’s display of Lafayette-related items, including the four-poster bed Lafayette slept in as a guest of Duncan Macrae.

Lafayette Society Annual Luncheon Meeting
For those who wish to preserve Lafayette’s legacy beyond the Bicentennial Celebrations, the Lafayette Society welcomes visitors to their Annual Luncheon Meeting, Sunday, March 2.
The luncheon is a pre-event featuring lecturer Robert Kelly who is speaking on the significance of Lafayette’s 1824-25 farewell tour and its correlation with current political challenges. The Society will also be announcing the winners of their Creative Contest, which invited submissions of poems and videos highlighting Lafayette’s values.
Dr. Gwenesta Melton, President of the Lafayette Society, said that membership with the society is not based on genealogy and only includes a small fee. She invited residents to come experience the camaraderie.
“if you are a lover of good American history and a wonderful French hero of the Americas, then you'll find something very, very important that will resonate with you if you join our society.”
Though the Marquis de Lafayette visited Fayetteville 200 years ago, Melton says the impact is ongoing.
“The Marquis de Lafayette had some ideals and principles that we could still use to this very day.”
For more information on the March 4 and 5 Bicentennial Celebrations and the Lafayette Society’s Annual Luncheon Meeting at the Skyview on Hay, visit lafayettesociety.org.

(Photo-Above: Attendees visit Lafayette Park in Fayetteville during a Lafayette event in 2024. Below: Lafayette lands in New York to kick off the Bicentennial Celebration. Photos courtesy of the Lafayette Society)

For Sandhills residents, sightings of orange-breasted robins and yellow buttercups are the farewell bids to winter we’ve long awaited. But for serious equestrians in the region and beyond, the start of the show season may mark springtime’s advent best. Excellence in equine competitions, from nationally and internationally sanctioned horse trials to local jumper shows and more, happens year-round at Carolina Horse Park in Raeford, a 315-acre nationally recognized premier equestrian complex practically in Fayetteville and Cumberland County’s backyard. CHP is the only horse sports facility with multi-disciplined resources to level championship-level equine competitions in the mid-Atlantic region.
One of the first on the 2025 schedule is the Park’s biggest event of the year, the Setters’ Run Farm Carolina International CCI and Horse Trial, March 13-16. Now in its 12th year, the program brings top-level and Olympian riders to neighboring Hoke County for Eventing’s second-highest level of competition.
An impressive test of both human and horse, Eventing is the three-discipline trial of dressage, cross-country and show jumping. While over 300 single horse and rider combinations will vie for victory in the 2025 Setters’ Run, only one participant will take home the top title. Still, as the season's first show, all participants make gains, CHP Director of Development and Communications Maggie Cline explained.
“The Setters’ Run is a four-star event, just one level below the Olympic level,” she said. “Every year, we have a number of riders who compete and then go to the Olympics. It’s also one of the first four stars in the competition schedule. It’s a time when riders are all getting their horses out and ready for the season—a good test of where they're at and where their training went in the off-season. So, it's a very exciting time.”
Attracting world-class equestrians and sponsoring the top level of competition is the goal of the Carolina International Executive Committee.
“Leveraging local and national expertise and leadership, we continue to deliver an outstanding weekend of horse sport and entertainment for riders, owners, patrons, sponsors and visitors,” the CIEC stated online.
This year’s leadership includes two of Horse World’s elites: Max Corcoran as show organizer and Derek di Grazia as cross-country course designer. Corcoran has served as the President of the United States Eventing Association, Inc. and has worked professionally as a super groom and event organizer for many years. One of the most highly respected and accomplished course designers in the Eventing world, di Grazia’s course resume includes the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event, Defender Burghley and the Tokyo Olympic Games.
Excitement builds each year over the horse-and-rider combinations entered. Cline expects three-time CI four-star level winner Will Coleman to enter again. Coleman “three-peated,” Cline said, in the 2021-23 trials. American five-star event rider Liz Halliday took home the top prize last year.
One rider to watch, according to Cline, is a local equestrian from Moore County. Ariel Grald is a five-star-level competitor bringing horses owned by the 2025 Carolina International CCI and Horse Trial show sponsor, Setters’ Run Farm of Vass. Owned by Annie Eldridge, Setters’ Farm has been an established breeding program since 2012.
Setters’ Farm is the title sponsor; other leveled sponsors for the year are CCI3*-S Sponsor, The Cordelia Family Foundation; CCI2*-S Sponsor, Breezeway Sporthorse and Diagnostic Clinic; CCI2*-S Sponsor, Friendship Veterinary Imaging and Sports Medicine; and CCI1*-S Sponsor, Dechra. For a full list of sponsors, see https://carolinainternationalcci.com/sponsors.
CHP’s first competition of the season represents the hundreds of equestrians who start with this early spring, high-level contest and then springboard to countless others.
Southern Pines horsewoman, Heidi Grimm Powell, CIEC board member and CI title holder.
“I remember the first time going to see the CI in 2014 and being so impressed with the caliber of horses and riders, the quality of the event and the hospitality shown to all—competitors, spectators and owners alike. I set a goal at that first visit to someday qualify to compete at the marquee event,” said Southern Pines horsewoman,Heidi Grimm Powell, CIEC board member and CI title holder. “I was very excited when, in 2020, I qualified my younger horse Finnastic! to compete but was devastated when the event was canceled because of COVID. Luckily, we qualified again the next year and had a solid result. He continued to improve his training; the following year, we won our division in 2022. It was quite an accomplishment for us!”
Spectators can also enjoy the action while watching in the stands and enjoying family-friendly activities. Admission is free and includes access to the Kids’ Zone with bouncy houses, a climbing wall, face painting and corn hole. The Park also provides an expansive Vendor Village and Food Court for retailers and spectators. Play, shop and eat while watching world-class horse action March 15-16 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
A ticketed option is available to spectators via the Carolina Club. Participants receive premier ringside viewing and southern hospitality at its finest inside this VIP tent. Food, beverages, open seating and recognition in the Official CI Program are among the benefits of this purchase, with single tickets and reserved tables available. Learn more at https://carolinainternationalcci.com/carolinaclub.
Cline hopes residents will turn out March 13-16 to support the non-profit Carolina Horse Park and experience the CI for themselves. “People flood the area for this. Maybe not at the US Open Level, but we are just very excited to be able to offer it and be a part of the community.”
Check out all the excitement at https://carolinainternationalcci.com/.

(Photo: A rider participates during the 2024 Setters' Run Farm Carolina International CCI and Horse Trial. Photo courtesy of Pam Jensen Photography)

Reading is fundamental. Roughly, 781 million adults worldwide are illiterate and this crucial, essential skill can be detrimental to an individual’s life and impact the way they live, work and function in society.
The Cumberland County School System will celebrate Read Across America Sunday, March 2 – Saturday, March 8.
“Read Across America started in 1998 and the National Education Association (NEA) began the celebration with a focus on Dr. Seuss and the joy of reading that his books brought us,” said Donna White, K-5 ELA Curriculum Specialist for Cumberland County Schools. “His literature served as the impetus for setting the stage for the Read Across America celebration.”
Read Across America is the nation’s largest celebration of reading. “In more recent years, Read Across America has expanded to include not only a celebration of Dr. Seuss, but also to celebrate a plethora of author’s books,” said White. “The reason that we celebrate Read Across America is because we want to instill the love of reading, inspire kids and adults to read, spark kids’ imagination and teach them empathy as they step into the shoes of other characters,” said White. “We want to strengthen their reading skills through things like improving their vocabulary, comprehension and critical thinking which sets the children up for success in school and beyond.”
Literacy is an important skill and it is never too early to expose children or a baby in utero to the reading of a book.
“We know that reading opens doors and early exposure to reading has been shown to improve the cognitive development of kids, to boost their academic performance and to spark their creativity,” said White.
This year, the National Education Association’s celebration resources entail opportunities to incorporate music into the reading as well. A plethora of events are planned for Read Across America for Cumberland County students. “Each school and teacher classrooms have found fabulous ways to celebrate Read Across America,” said White. “Kids will get to dress up as their favorite character or their favorite book and parade around the school or around the classroom.”
She added, “Other schools and other classrooms may decide to have a spirit week where they might have a hat day, a favorite book Friday, family reading nights, invite guest readers such as county and city leaders to read a book to the students or a reading challenge where they are challenging students to read a certain number of books or pages during the week.”
Motivating students to read can be an arduous task.
“What helps to motivate students to read is when they see adults and other students around them getting excited about reading and that rubs off on them,” said White. “It is important that we always ensure that our kids see reading as a fun activity that they want to do rather than something that they have to do in order to do something fun.”
White added, “Even with the most reluctant readers that I have encountered during my years of working with young students, finding out what interests them the most can motivate them to read.”
The goal at home and school is to have a literacy rich environment for students.
“We want to make sure that our students have access to lots and lots of books,” said White. “Fortunately, our schools have wonderful libraries and Cumberland County is particularly blessed to have many public libraries that have programs for the students after school, on the weekends and during the summer that can help provide students with that literacy rich environment.”
White’s goal for Read Across America week is for every Cumberland County student to be inspired in some way by literature whether it is hearing a special guest read to them or experience a book tasting.
“It is important that our children see their families reading and for parents to have that conversation with their child about what their favorite books were as a child,” said White. “It is even more important now to show our children how to put those digital devices away and interact with a good old-fashioned book.”
For more information visit www.ccs.k12.nc.us.

Get ready to rock! The Cumberland Choral Arts is thrilled to announce its upcoming concert, "Covers," a vibrant and energetic performance featuring popular rock and pop hits reimagined for choral voices. This unique concert experience will take place on Sunday, March 9 at 5 p.m. at Gray's Creek High School in Hope Mills. Doors open at 4:30 p.m.
"Covers" promises an evening of electrifying music, showcasing the talents of not only the CCA, but also the Gray's Creek High School Choir, the Cross Creek Chorale, CCA’s smaller, auditioned ensemble, and the up-and-coming Campbellton Youth Chorus. Adding to the excitement, the Guy Unger Band will join the choruses, providing instrumental accompaniment on several pieces, and creating a dynamic fusion of rock instrumentation and choral harmonies.
This concert marks the fourth year that CCA has collaborated with area youth choirs and the second time they’ve partnered with Gray’s Creek High School. The inspiration for this ongoing collaboration comes from CCA’s Artistic Director, Michael Martin, who envisioned a way to introduce younger generations to the beauty and artistry of choral music.
“Our goal is to nurture the next generation of choral singers,” explains Sandy Cage, President of CCA Board of Directors. “We want to foster a life-long love of singing.”
The Campbellton Youth Chorus, directed by Lisa Packer, is a testament to this mission. With no participation fees, the chorus removes financial barriers, making involvement in the choir accessible to all children aged 9-16.
“Giving these younger singers a chance to perform alongside seasoned musicians is invaluable,” says Cage.
The "Covers" program features a diverse selection of pop rock classics from iconic artists like Billy Joel, The Beatles, The Eagles, Stevie Wonder, Queen and many more. The concert will culminate in a grand finale performance of Queen’s legendary “Bohemian Rhapsody.” While many pop songs are beloved, not all translate effectively to choral arrangements. The CCA has been meticulous in selecting arrangements that capture the essence of the original songs while showcasing the unique power of choral voices. Audiences can expect to hear familiar tunes in a fresh and exciting new light.
The relaxed atmosphere of the concert reflects the energy of the performance. In a departure from traditional formal attire, the singers will be sporting their favorite rock t-shirts, creating a fun and approachable environment for all ages.
The Cumberland Choral Arts has a rich history in the Fayetteville community. Originally founded as the Cumberland Oratorio Singers in 1991, the group’s inaugural performance was Mozart’s Requiem, commemorating the 200th anniversary of the composer’s death. For many years, the CCA has delighted audiences with its annual performance of Handel’s Messiah alongside the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra. In recent years, the organization broadened its repertoire beyond classical music, leading to a name change around 2018-19 to reflect the increasing diversity of its musical offerings. Looking ahead, the CCA is looking forward to its upcoming performance at Carnegie Hall in June 2025, where they will perform “Lux Aeterna.”
Tickets for “Covers” are $15 for adults and $5 for children and can be purchased at the door or online at cumberlandchoralarts.org. Don't miss this opportunity to experience a unique and unforgettable concert that blends the power of choral music with the energy of rock and pop music. Tickets are $15 for adults, $5 for students and can be purchased by visiting https://secure.givelively.org/event/cumberland-choral-arts/covers

Twenty-six days since Clinton “Clint” Bonnell disappeared, and his whereabouts remain a mystery. “Sadly, he is still missing, and the case is actively being investigated,” says Lt.  Patrice Bogertey with the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office. “The entire Sheriff’s Office is looking for him,” Bogertey says about the 50-year-old retired Green Beret, who last was seen on Jan. 27 at the Fit4Life Health Club on Owen Drive.
He was wearing, according to a news release, a plaid button-up shirt, a black hoodie and brown pants. He is 6 feet tall and weighs 195 pounds. A student in the Physician Assistant Studies program at Methodist University, Bonnell reportedly was headed to the university and then to his Gray’s Creek home. “This case is currently in the hands of one dedicated detective, but the entire agency is looking for him,” Bogertey said. “We ask anyone with information to please come forward.”
Bonnell’s sister, Stefanie Firkins, is asking, too.
“I believe someone out there has information that can help us find him,” she wrote on her Facebook page on Monday.
You can be assured, Mrs. Firkins, someone knows something. If you have any knowledge about Bonnell’s whereabouts, contact Detective Sgt. J. McLeod at 910-677-5548. Or you may contact Crimestoppers on fay-nccrimestoppers.org or call 910-483-TIPS (8477).

Cumberland County property tax values have risen an average of 64.7% since 2017, Tax Administrator Joe Utley told the Board of Commissioners.
Unless the county commissioners, the Fayetteville City Council and other town boards change their tax rates this summer when they pass their new budgets, property owners will pay significantly more in property taxes.
According to the Zillow real estate service, the average value of a home in Cumberland County is $217,492. If that home is in the Fayetteville city limit, the homeowner pays just under $3,000 in annual property taxes. If the city and county do not change their tax rates, the homeowner’s new property bill will be about $4,938 this year.
The new valuations take effect July 1.
Public expected to respond, and to appeal
“You’re going to get a lot of phone calls. All of us will,” Commissioner Marshall Faircloth said. “But until the tax rate is changed — hopefully lowered in our case — we won’t really know what the end result’s going to be.”
If history is a signal for the future, the county commissioners and city and town leaders are likely in June to reduce their property tax rates in light of the new values.
In 2009, when that year’s revaluation showed an increase in property values, the Cumberland County commissioners cut the county tax rate, The Fayetteville Observer reported then. In 2017’s revaluation, property values dropped and the commissioners increased the tax rate.
The county has more than 143,000 properties, Utley said.
But each property is different. Some tax appraisals went up more than others, and some may have gone down.
In the upcoming week, Cumberland County property owners will start learning how much their property values have changed. The county plans to begin on Friday mailing the notices of the new values.
Property owners can appeal their property’s new appraised value if they disagree with it.
“With the increase that we’re gonna see in our county, there are going to be quite a few appeals,” Utley said.
New tax appraisals required by law
State law requires counties to re-appraise all homes, businesses and other properties at least once every eight years, Utley said. The revaluation “is to ensure property values accurately reflect fair market value, and ensuring the property tax burden is spread equitably amongst all taxpayers,” he said.
“And contrary to popular myth,” Utley said, “revaluations are not conducted to raise revenue.”
When reviewing residential and commercial properties, he said, the appraisers reviewed real estate sales data, assessed how much income the properties could earn and what it would cost to build the property.
Some details of the new valuations:
• Residential values rose 86.2%. (In 2017, residential values fell 4.9%.)
• Commercial real estate values rose 27%. (In 2017, these rose 4%.)
• Single-family homes rose 84.2%, multifamily homes rose 167.1%, condominiums rose 121.2%, and residential vacant land rose 63%.
While residential properties grew quickly since the COVID-19 pandemic, commercial and industrial properties have seen less increase in value and less new construction, Utley said.
“With people staying home, some of the stores may be closed, people ordering more online — we just did not see the growth in the commercial that we saw in residential.”
The property value increases in the municipalities:
• Fayetteville, 61.1
• Hope Mills, 70.8%
• Spring Lake, 62.0%
• Stedman, 62.6%
• Wade, 74.8%
• Falcon, 57.7%
• Godwin, 107.0%
• Linden, 73.0%
• Eastover, 64.9%

The Fayetteville Cumberland Economic Development Corporation announced that Waste Energy Corp, a company that converts plastic waste into diesel fuel, is planning to open its first facility in Fayetteville.
The company signed a binding letter of intent to purchase 26,000 square feet of heavy industrial space in the City of Fayetteville for the site. According to Fayetteville’s zoning ordinances, an energy recovery plant requires a special use permit, even in a heavy industrial district, so the Fayetteville City Council will need to approve the development before it begins operating.
To create energy, Waste Energy Corp uses a technology called pyrolysis, which involves heating plastics or rubber in an oxygen-free environment. This is different from burning plastic for energy. Instead of combustion, pyrolysis relies on thermal decomposition, a chemical reaction that causes the molecules in the plastic to break down into a mixture of gas, oil and char. The mixture is then refined into usable fossil fuels, primarily diesel fuel.
Environmental advocates have pushed back against such facilities in other communities, raising concerns about air pollution and a continued focus on fossil fuel production at a time when scientists say continued carbon emissions will cause irreversible climate change resulting in catastrophic heat waves, droughts, wildfires, hurricanes and floods.
Though Waste Energy Corp is still securing the proper permits, its facility will likely be located in existing warehouse buildings within an industrial site about a mile south of downtown Fayetteville, accessible from the intersection of Cool Spring Street and Sam Cameron Avenue, its CEO Scott Gallagher told CityView. He said the company has secured a deal on the 18,000-square-foot building there and is hoping to purchase another 8,000-square-foot building as well.
The Fayetteville location will be Waste Energy Corp’s first waste-to-energy facility, Gallagher said. According to its SEC filings, Waste Energy Corp is a publicly traded company based in California and incorporated in Nevada. The company rebranded from MetaWorks Platforms to Waste Energy Corp in November 2024, shifting its focus from technology platform development to waste-to-energy production.
According to Waste Energy Corp, the Fayetteville facility could open as soon as April and will be able to convert up to 30 tons of plastic waste per day. The company’s goal is to address the plastic pollution crisis while turning a profit, its CEO said. About 5% of plastic waste is recycled each year.
“We’re not doing this to make more plastic,” Gallager told CityView. “Every piece of plastic we touch ends with us. So we divert it from the landfills, convert it to diesel, and then sell the diesel product and some of the other things. There are a lot of companies doing this type of a project to convert it to more feedstock to make more plastic. And we’re not about any of that.”
The feasibility and effectiveness of large-scale waste-to-energy facilities have been under scrutiny as companies have closed plants or scaled them down in recent years. Shell announced last summer that it would scale down its pledge to process 1 million tons of plastic into fuel by 2025. A waste-to-energy plant in Youngstown, Ohio, was scrapped amid opposition from locals concerned about toxic air pollution.
Fayetteville Cumberland Economic Development Corporation did not immediately respond to requests for comment on this story.
Local economic impact
Gallagher said the company worked closely with the Fayetteville Cumberland Economic Development Corporation to find locations in Fayetteville and has been working with Cumberland County for the past six to seven months on the permitting process. He said the company did not receive any local or state incentives to come to Fayetteville but was drawn to the city’s location as a midpoint across the East Coast. The energy-to-waste site will be located about two miles from Interstate 95 — the main north-south highway on the East Coast — and will have access to a short rail line that connects to CSX’s main line up and down the coast. This would make it easy to source plastic waste from anywhere along the Atlantic Coast, as well as sell the fuel the facility produces.
“As we went through all these locations, Fayetteville being almost smack dab in the center of New York, Jersey, Philly and Florida, it really kind of opens up the map for us in a bunch of different ways, on both the feedstock side and the distribution side,” Gallagher said.
Feedstock refers to the plastic or rubber that is used to make the fuel, which in pyrolysis typically includes difficult-to-recycle items like tires and single-use plastics.
Gallagher estimated the initial facility will employ between five and 10 people, but if the company expands as it hopes to, the goal is to create about 75 local jobs. The majority of the jobs would have salaries between $60,000 and $80,000, he said.
Gallagher said the company is looking to first sell fuel to local businesses that have an appetite for it.
“It’s a very industrial area, so even though we can sell up and down the Eastern Seaboard, we’d love to source it locally to the companies [here],” Gallagher said. “There’s definitely a need for it. There’s a good market for diesel fuel obviously in the town, so that would be our first target.”
Environmental impact
Waste Energy Corp says it uses “advanced pyrolysis technology and AI” to convert plastic and rubber into pyrolysis oil, a type of fossil fuel. The company repeatedly describes the fuel it produces as “clean energy,” but it still produces petroleum-based fuel that when burned releases atmospheric-warming greenhouse gas emissions. Environmental advocates have criticized this type of pyrolysis, noting that it continues the world’s reliance on fossil fuels and plastics.
Gallagher said Waste Energy Corp’s operations would not cause environmental harm. He said the pyrolysis reactor used to heat the plastics is highly energy efficient, requiring minimal power to start and then running primarily on gas it generates for about eight hours.
“There’s no damage to the environment at all,” Gallagher told CityView. “Again, our whole underlying reason to do this is we’re trying to play a small part in eliminating plastic and in a way that we can run it as a business and still make money and do something good.”
According to records obtained by ProPublica and The Guardian, the plastics-to-fuel process could release harmful air pollutants, including ones that carry a high cancer risk. Pyrolysis is still considered incineration by the Environmental Protection Agency and regulated as such under the Clean Air Act. But the Trump administration has recently expressed interest in removing pyrolysis from the designation, as it attempted to do during Donald Trump’s first presidency. The plastics industry has lobbied strongly for pyrolysis to be de-regulated.
The first planned Fayetteville plant is located in a low-income, majority Black census tract. Gallagher said Waste Energy Corp‘s pyrolysis process can produce an unpleasant smell when processing tires, but he said rubber will not be used in the first plant, which will only process plastic. He said the company’s pyrolysis technology meets stringent European air emission standards, which are higher than U.S. standards.
“With plastic, there’s virtually no smell,” Gallagher said. “There’s a little steam generated.”
What’s next
The Fayetteville location is a “pilot project” and Waste Energy Corp will evaluate its outputs after a couple of months to determine expansion plans. If the first operation goes well in Fayetteville, the company would like to expand its operations here first, Galllagher said.
“Depending on how it goes — we like Fayetteville — that’s going to be our first area that we expand before we go anywhere,” he told CityView.
The company currently has corporate offices in California, but Gallagher is “probably looking to headquarter it in Fayetteville.”
The announcement of the waste-to-energy plant comes as Fayetteville officials and FCEDC have doubled down on efforts to boost the city’s industry and attract new technology, innovation and defense business. After offering tax and infrastructure incentives, a titanium company last year chose to build a recycling plant in Fayetteville worth more than three quarters of a billion dollars.

Tired of reading about Elon Musk’s adventures in rearranging American government? Bothered by the prospect that his Musketeers obtaining your IRS records may turn out poorly for you? Unsure if buying pre-construction time shares in Gaza Riveria Villages on the Mediterranean is the best use of your Bit coins?
Worried that Ukraine will not exist after Trump and Putin carve it up? Remember what happened after Hitler and Stalin divided up Poland? Ignore the news. It’s time to put on a happy face. Take advice from the MC in Cabaret: “Leave your troubles outside. Inside this column, the world is beautiful. The girls are beautiful. Even the orchestra is beautiful.”
We are going to pour several spoonfuls of sugar on all those unpleasant thoughts. Take off your thinking cap, we are going to cross the Event Horizon from grim reality into the land of blissful willful ignorance.
Today’s lesson will lessen the chaos surrounding us by digging up smiley face aphorisms suitable for printing on inspirational plaques sold at the Cracker Barrel. That’s right, boys and girls; walk down Quotation Lane to lighten up current reality. Our old pal Samuel Coleridge advised forcing a willing suspension of disbelief to enjoy life. John Bucher once said: “Ignore the fact that the arc of the moral universe is long but bends toward chaos.” Chaos is just a negative name for reality. Back in the 60’s there was a popular poster that cheered us up proclaiming “Reality is a crutch.” You don’t need no stinkin’ reality when you have a willing suspension of disbelief. Like Voltaire had Candide say: “We live in the best of all possible worlds.” Attitude makes reality swell.
Alice and the White Queen discussed reality during Alice’s visit to Wonderland. Alice laughed: “There’s no use trying,’ she said; ‘one can’t believe impossible things.”
“I daresay you haven’t had much practice,” said the Queen. “When I was younger. I always did it for half an hour a day. Why, sometimes I’ve believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast.”
Gentle Reader, get up a half-hour earlier each morning and practice believing impossible things. If you need coaching on this skill, watch more Fox News. It will take you there.
Be like the ax in the proverb: “The ax forgets. The tree remembers.” Who wants to be like a Weeping Willow tree? Trees are morose with bark worse than their bite. Cut through the inconvenient reality of 2025 to be an ax. Despite what Joyce Kilmer said, trees are stupid anyway. They just stand around waiting for DOGE to turn them into toothpicks. National Parks are so 20th century. It’s time for the National Parks to pay their own way. Drill baby, drill! Tea Pot Dome be darned. Oil derricks produce more revenue than Red Wood Trees any day of the month.
Reality just makes people unhappy. Our old buddy Thomas Hobbes opined that “life is solitary, poor, nasty, brutish and short.” Who needs that sort of reality? Ignorance makes one happier. Daniel Patrick Moynihan said: “It’s not ignorance that hurts so much, as knowing all the things that ain’t so.” The more stuff you know that ain’t so, the happier you will be.
Maya Angelou was dead wrong when she wrote: “Every storm runs out of rain.” The news has more rain than you can shake a stick at. Look at the hurricane damage in western NC, floods in California and Kentucky. Wouldn’t you be happier if you didn’t have to think about reality?
An Arab proverb summed up how best to deal with reality: “It is good to know the truth, but it is better to speak of palm trees.” You can know the truth if you choose, but speaking it can get you into trouble.
America’s favorite lawyer, Jackie Chiles, Esquire of Seinfeld described the problems of reality well: “It’s egregious, preposterous, lewd, lascivious, salacious, outrageous, and flaunts the conventions of society.“ Pro tip: If you are flaunting the conventions of society by following reality instead of happy talk about the current Administration, stop it. Get over your fixation of reality. Stop complaining about reality.
Another Arab proverb says: “The dogs bark, but the caravan moves on.”
If you persist in focusing on reality, not only will you be unhappy, but you might end up in GITMO stuck between the Devil and the deep Blue cheese. There is a reason the Swiss put holes in their cheese. They have figured out how to sell you holes. Reality is nothing but a Black Hole of unhappiness. Look for the holes in reality. There you will find true happiness.

(Illustration by Pitt Dickey)

Publisher note: The letter-to-the-editor below examines the Fayetteville-Cumberland Human Relations Commission and its alignment with Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion policies. Unlike unvetted statements and information found on Facebook and other social media platforms, I have found that the information on which the writer has based her letter is readily and publicly available at www.fayettevillenc.gov and www.CumberlandcountyNC.gov. Details about the FCHRC’s mission, meeting minutes, and policy discussions are available on the official website of the Fayetteville-Cumberland Human Relations Commission. https://www.fayettevillenc.gov/City-Departments/Human-Relations. Calista Cuevas is a Fayetteville resident, mother of two, and co-founder of the local Moms for Liberty organization. Thank you for reading the Up & Coming Weekly newspaper.
— Bill Bowman, Publisher

For generations, Americans have shared a core belief: Hard work, not identity, should determine success. The idea that all men are created equal—not divided by race, gender, or background—has shaped the nation. This principle has driven generations to work hard, succeed, and build a merit-based society. However, the push for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion undermines this longstanding American principle—not about fairness or opportunity—but government-driven social engineering that replaces merit with identity politics. This ideology, championed by local progressive activists, is being embedded into our Fayetteville/Cumberland County government, including our school system.
The Fayetteville-Cumberland Human Relations Commission is one such entity. While it presents itself as a neutral force promoting “equity and inclusion,” its policies and agenda prioritize group identity over individual ability and effort.
This is not just a partisan conservative viewpoint or issue. It is an American issue. Regardless of political affiliation (or no affiliation), every hardworking citizen should reject the idea that identity matters more than merit.
Over the years, the Fayetteville-Cumberland Human Relations Commission has quietly embedded itself in local governance, policymaking, and school influence.
In 2023 and 2024, the FCHRC attempted to establish a Student-Human Relations Commission—a DEI-based program inside Cumberland County schools. The commission contacted Superintendent Dr. Connolly to push this agenda. While this initiative was unsuccessful, the mere fact that it was attempted—without public input—should concern every citizen.
This aligns with a more significant national trend. Recognizing the growing threat of radical ideology in education, the President recently signed the executive order “Ending Radical Indoctrination in K-12 Schooling.” This order blocks federal funding for schools that teach DEI, critical race theory, and gender ideology—policies that undermine the merit-based system upon which this nation was built. It also reinstates the 1776 Commission, ensuring that patriotic education and parental rights are protected in schools.
Despite the national efforts to eradicate DEI infiltration, the FCHRC and similar commissions continue working behind the scenes to reshape policies under the banner of “equity.”
When implementing DEI policies, hiring, admissions, qualifications, and promotions cease to be objective. Instead, decisions are made based on race, gender, or other identity-based characteristics—factors that have nothing to do with a person’s ability to perform the assigned task.
For example, if two candidates were applying for a job, it should not matter the sex, race, sexual preference, or any other irrelevant characteristic an applicant has. The only things that should matter are their skills, experience, education, and overall ability to succeed in the role. An actual merit-based society selects candidates based on qualifications—not personal characteristics. And once a candidate is chosen, their race, gender, or background should be irrelevant.
This is the fundamental difference between DEI and a meritocracy, which ensures that all individuals—regardless of background have an equal chance to compete, succeed, and celebrate their achievements. DEI advocates feel that priority should be given to certain identity groups, regardless of ability.
This is why all citizens, regardless of political affiliation (or no affiliation) should reject DEI: DEI removes fairness and replaces it with forced social engineering.
Anyone serving actively on a public board, commission, or committee should be of the highest integrity to ensure honest and objective points of view. Serving in this capacity only matters if individuals uphold their values and keep their constituents and the general public informed about the policies discussed and formulated behind closed doors. Someone seated on any local board who fails to stand up and speak up for their principles compromises their values, or practices a “go along-to-get along” approach when addressing significant issues. These people should not be in a leadership position.
Even more egregious is when someone purposely contradicts their values for personal gain or to enhance their standing and stature in the community. This challenges the faith and trust that citizens have in their governing agencies. Unfortunately, this appears to be precisely what happened when several recent members of the FCHRC board professed conservative values, then surrendered those values by failing to stand firm, exposing progressive and radical overreach, and failing to use their position to inform the public of the DEI ideological movement.
As voters, we should have serious questions about how these board members manage their roles on essential boards and committees while actively serving and advocating for more realistic ideals and conservative values. Values that do not include support of DEI principles. Transparency and accountability should be non-negotiable in leadership.
Fayetteville and Cumberland County do not exist in a vacuum. Our local leadership needs to aggressively implement idealogy that enhances Fayetteville and Cumberland County and our quality of life while returning trust in our government and leadership. Fayetteville needs to lead this movement, not resist it.

Editor's Note: The views expressed in this article are those of Calista Cuevos and do not reflect the views of all of the staff at Up & Coming Weekly. Up & Coming Weekly encourages editorials from the community, and will print letters to the editor as long as they are not submitted anonymously.

The Cumberland County Board of Education is a dedicated team of leaders working tirelessly to ensure our students thrive and our schools remain a beacon of excellence. The Board’s mission is to serve the community by acting on behalf of the nearly 50,000 students in the Cumberland County Schools system and shaping policies and programs that prepare students for success in school and beyond.
Comprised of nine non-partisan, locally elected members, the Board is a blend of district and at-large representatives, ensuring every corner of our county has a voice. Six members are elected by district, while three serve at-large, each bringing unique perspectives and expertise to the table. Members serve staggered four-year terms, providing stability and continuity in decision-making.
The Board works seamlessly with CCS leadership to maintain our district’s reputation as the school system of choice in Cumberland County. This collaboration is evident in the variety of committees each member oversees, which include Auxiliary Services, Budget/Finance, Curriculum, Personnel, Policy/Student Assignment, Student Support Services and Legislative matters. These committees dive deep into the needs of our schools, students and staff, making thoughtful recommendations to the full Board for action.

Meet the 2024 Cumberland County Board of Education:
• Deanna Jones, Chairwoman: Serving since 2020, Deanna Jones was re-elected as chairwoman for 2025, and represents District 2.
• Judy Musgrave, Vice Chairwoman: A board member since 2014, Judy Musgrave was elected as vice chairwoman for 2025, serving in an At-Large capacity.
• Dr. Mary Hales: Newly elected in 2024, Dr. Hales represents District 1.
• Delores Bell: Elected in 2024, Delores Bell represents District 3.
• Jackie Warner: Also elected in 2024, Jackie Warner represents District 4.
• Susan Williams: A board member since 2012, Susan Williams was re-elected in 2024 to continue representing District 5.
• Dr. Terra Jordan: Elected in 2024, Dr. Jordan represents District 6.
• Jacquelyn Brown: Elected in 2022, Jacquelyn Brown serves in an At-Large capacity.
• Greg West: A seasoned board member since 2002, Greg West continues to serve in an At-Large capacity.
Community Connection
The Board values transparency and welcomes public involvement. Monthly Board meetings, held on the second Tuesday of the month at 6:00 p.m., are open to the public, providing an opportunity for community members to share their thoughts. Citizens who wish to address the Board can sign up in advance to speak. Additionally, committee meetings offer another way to stay informed and engaged with the Board’s work.
For those unable to attend meetings, connecting with Board members is easy. Whether in person or writing, the Board welcomes your input on matters related to public education.
Together, CCS and the Board of Education are committed to fostering a culture of excellence, innovation and equity. This partnership ensures that every student in Cumberland County has access to the resources and support they need to succeed, making our schools—and our community—stronger than ever.
For more information or to get involved, visit the CCS website at https://www.ccs.k12.nc.us/ or call 910-678-2300.

As we age, staying healthy and maintaining independence becomes increasingly important. For seniors in Fayetteville, North Carolina, LIFE St. Joseph of the Pines offers a pathway to healthy aging with comprehensive medical and social support.
This Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) is designed to help seniors age in place, serving as an alternative to nursing home care.
LIFE St. Joseph of the Pines provides a full spectrum of care tailored to each participant’s needs. The interdisciplinary care team includes experts in primary care, nursing, therapy, medication management, and more.
Together, they develop personalized care plans to improve participants’ overall well-being and quality of life. Services are provided at no cost to those who qualify through Medicaid, Medicaid and Medicare, or via private payment options.
What sets LIFE St. Joseph of the Pines apart is its person-centered approach. Participants are more than patients; they are treated as valued members of a close-knit care community.
The care team takes the time to know each participant personally, creating individualized care plans to address their specific needs and goals.
Key services include:
• Primary medical care and nursing support
• Specialist consultations
• Medication management
• Home health care and supportive services
• Transportation to appointments
• Nutritious meals and dietary counseling
• Physical, occupational, speech, and recreational therapies
• Social services and support networks
By providing this full-circle care, LIFE St. Joseph of the Pines empowers seniors to maintain their independence, improve their health, and thrive in their own homes. Healthy aging is possible, and with PACE programs like LIFE St. Joseph of the Pines, it’s also accessible.
If you or a loved one are interested in learning more about LIFE St. Joseph of the Pines, reach out to see if you or an aging loved one qualifies at 910-429-7200 or visit lifestjosephofthepines.org.

Get ready for an exciting day of pickleball at the Fayetteville Technical Community College Trojan Twist Pickleball Spring Classic. This highly anticipated event will occur on Saturday, April 5, at the state-of-the-art outdoor courts of Fayetteville Technical Community College.
Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting, this event promises a day of friendly competition, community spirit, and lots of fun. With brand new, lighted courts featuring permanent lines and nets that FTCC unveiled in November 2023, players can enjoy a hassle-free game without the need to set up and take down equipment constantly.
The tournament is split into two sessions to accommodate different skill levels. The morning session, starting at 9 a.m., is designed for beginners with a skill level of 2.5-3.0. This is the perfect opportunity for new players to shine and gain experience.
The afternoon session, starting at approximately 1 p.m., is geared towards intermediate players with a skill level of 3.5-4.0. Players will be notified of their specific start times. Each session is structured to provide a fun and competitive environment for all participants.
This year marks the exciting debut of the innovative Rapid Rally Pickleball format, an energetic new approach to the sport that promises non-stop excitement and fast-paced gameplay. This dynamic format is specifically crafted to keep players engaged while fostering a vibrant social atmosphere. Participants will have numerous opportunities to connect with fellow pickleball enthusiasts, rotate through different playing partners, and experience varied matchups throughout the event, creating an inclusive and entertaining environment for all skill levels.
Each player will be assigned to one of five courts, where they’ll compete in 8-minute games using rally scoring. This format ensures that players get to experience a variety of opponents and partners, keeping the games dynamic and engaging.
After each game concludes, players will rotate to a new court for fresh matchups. With small breaks in between games, players can expect to play for a total of 1.5 to 2 hours. This format not only keeps the competition lively but also fosters a sense of community among participants.
The top 8 players with the highest cumulative individual scores will advance to the exciting medal matches. This is where the competition heats up, as players vie for a spot on the podium.
Medals will be awarded to the top three finishers in each bracket. Be sure to bring your A-game and compete for the honor of being crowned a champion at the FTCC Trojan Twist Pickleball Spring Classic!
Don’t miss out on this unique and fun-filled pickleball event! Registration is $35 per person, and spots are filling up quickly. Sign up early to secure your place in this exciting tournament. You can register online at https://www.faytechcc.edu/foundation-events/ftcc-foundation-pickleball-registration/.
With FTCC's new pickleball courts, the sport is set to become even more accessible to the local community. Whether you're looking for some friendly competition or eager to learn the ropes, this event is the perfect setting for honing your skills and making new friends. Join others for a day of pickleball, community, and fun!

The success of a business is marked by its longevity and loyal customer base. After closing its previous Hay Street location in 2017 and hitting some roadblocks that delayed the new location opening by a staggering seven years, A Taste of West Africa is back, much to the delight of city residents and those afar.
In honor of being back in business for a year and succeeding even after the hiatus, A Taste of West Africa is hosting a formal on Saturday, Feb. 22 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the new location, 116 Person Street. Guests will enjoy a night filled with music, including a special Motown Tribute, specialty cocktails, a variety of wines and beers from the newly opened bar and lounge area in the restaurant, and of course, a bite of the delicious and aromatic foods that have made this restaurant a downtown favorite and cultural hub.
Of the brick buildings that line the historic downtown area, one in particular stands out, in all the best ways. Yellow marks the spot, with its brightly painted brick exterior and exquisite window murals celebrating the pride of the Motherland, A Taste of West Africa’s new location is everything that owner Dr. Isabella Effon has dreamed of when she first brought the rich and savory foods of her homeland, Ghana.
The vision was not to just be a restaurant to grab fufu or fried plantains, but a place to be immersed in the diverse cultures that make up Africa. From the newly hung paintings and statues to the framed history of the vast African nations, every part of A Taste of West Africa is a piece of history and tells the story of the people of the land.
Dr. Effon has made a conscious effort to provide a space that teaches and unifies, saying “Culture is my biggest [passion]. I’m an advocate for the African culture and we have a lot of information to give out. I see my space as a place of that infamy, not only that but sharing the arts, the beautiful pieces. So [you] don’t have to go to a museum all the time to read and see some [African culture]. Each country is unique, South, Northeast, West and Central. I tell people all the time, Ghana is a country, but you still have south, east, and west [Ghanaian culture].”
She also hopes to be a hub for other cultures here in Cumberland County. The restaurant plays host to a local Latin dance group and AfroBeats yoga class in the event space, Volta, located in the back. Even this space is dripped in culture and meaning, as Dr. Effon is from Lake Volta, Ghana. There is no detail spared in this space, even down to the food.
For those who have never tried African food, there is no better introduction than at the capable hands of Dr. Effon and her beautiful mother, saying, “I don’t cook anything spicy (you can request it on the side). I know I’ve always had family, little children, the parents say they don’t eat at home, but they eat my food. I take that dearly to my heart. [It's] well-seasoned. It’s delicious. [I] put a little spin on it to make it pleasing to all of us, [I] add vegetables to all my soups, which a lot of Africans don’t do… My food is made to order. I don’t have soups sitting in the back here or anything. I cook for each and every individual.”
For more information on menu items, cultural events, classes, and all things A Taste of West Africa, visit the website at https://www.tasteofwestafrica.net/ and follow them on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/TasteOfWestAfrica. Tickets for the formal on Saturday, Feb. 22 can be purchased at https://bit.ly/4hSExo7
Group and individual tickets are available.

Mardi Gras, also known as Fat Tuesday, is a vibrant celebration held the day before Ash Wednesday, marking the beginning of Lent in the Christian calendar. This tradition is steeped in history and cultural significance, dating back to ancient Roman festivals that celebrated the arrival of spring. As Christianity spread, these pagan traditions were incorporated into the religious observance of Lent.
Today, Mardi Gras is celebrated with grand parades, elaborate costumes, and various festivities. New Orleans, Louisiana, is renowned for its extravagant Mardi Gras celebrations, attracting countless visitors each year. The festival serves as a time for people to indulge and enjoy before the solemn period of Lent begins.
The Mystery Behind Mardi Gras Masks
One of the most iconic aspects of Mardi Gras is the tradition of wearing masks. This practice originated during early Carnivals when people wore masks to mingle freely outside their social classes and keep their identities hidden. The anonymity provided by the masks allowed individuals to partake in the festivities without fear of damaging their reputations.
Today, the tradition continues, with float riders legally required to wear masks to maintain the sense of mystery and tradition. Many krewes, the organizations that plan and participate in the parades, never reveal the identities of their kings or queens, adding to the allure and intrigue of the celebration.
The Story of Mardi Gras Beads
The tradition of throwing beads during Mardi Gras parades began in the late 19th century. Carnival kings would toss fake jewels and trinkets to the crowd as a symbol of their generosity and to engage the spectators. Over time, this practice evolved, and today, the beads are primarily made of plastic and are highly coveted souvenirs for parade-goers who eagerly try to catch them.
The beads often feature the traditional Mardi Gras colors of purple, green, and gold, representing justice, faith, and power, respectively. This vibrant tradition adds a splash of color and excitement to the festivities, making it a memorable experience for everyone involved.

 The Delicious Tradition of Mardi Gras King Cake
The King Cake is a delicious and symbolic tradition that honors the Three Wise Men and celebrates the coming of the baby Jesus. This tradition includes hiding a small plastic baby inside the cake, and whoever finds it is said to have good fortune in the coming year. The practice of baking a baby into the cake became popular in the 1800s.
The origins of this tradition can be traced back to ancient Roman festivals celebrating the solstice. As Christianity spread, the tradition was adopted and adapted to commemorate the Twelfth Night, marking the end of the Christmas season and the beginning of Epiphany. Today, King Cakes are enjoyed throughout the Mardi Gras season, adding a sweet and festive touch to the celebrations.
Modern Mardi Gras celebrations are a vibrant blend of historical traditions and contemporary festivities. While the core elements of masks, beads, and King Cakes remain, today's celebrations also feature elaborate parades, live music, and street parties. Each year, krewes compete to create the most impressive floats and costumes, adding a competitive and creative spirit to the event.
Celebrate Mardi Gras at one of these great local events
Saturday, Feb. 22 at 6 p.m.
• Kick-Off To Mardi Gras
Enjoy live music from Book Unit Bass Band, face painting, Creole food, dessert and Hurricane Sangria. This is for 18+ only. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/mswdas39
Friday, Feb. 28 at 7 p.m.
• Mardi Gras On The Trolley
Join a lively Mardi Gras celebration featuring games, music, and fun. Dress to impress in your finest Mardi Gras attire. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/298ekapv
Saturday, March 1 at 9 a.m.
• 1st Annual Mardi Gras Challenge Golf Tournament
This 18-hole, four-person golf tournament will be challenging and fun. Entry fee is $55 for members, and $65 for non-members and includes a green fee, cart fee, balls, prizes, and a meal. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/ykfye24y
Saturday, March 1 at 7 p.m.
• Mardi Gras Masquerade
Immerse yourself in a New Orleans-themed event with music, dancing, signature cocktails, gourmet bites, and more. General Admission is $25 and Reserved Seating is $45. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/yxa4ha8b