Alexis Tidwell, like other dazzling singers, finds herself singing on her treadmill to keep up with the talent in her current show. This is hard, she may admit, because this isn’t a talent of flesh and blood but rather a fictional diva who can sing and dance and perform at a non-stop pace. A Vegas showgirl who often steals the stage.
By any means, Tidwell will do the same.
“You have to hit the gas and go 90 then come to a full stop,” she says. “I want to compromise the vocals as little as possible.”
Tidwell laughs and says that when she’s out at a public gym on the treadmill, instead of belting it out, she’ll take all the breaths needed for the songs instead.
“All the technical things of singing without the phonating. I think that’s something people don’t think about.”
Her love interest in the show, played by actor Joshua Walker, says he finds himself out of breath too after his musical number. When asked how many numbers he will have to perform, he laughs and holds up just his pointer finger.
“It's not as much,” he laughs, admitting he’s in some group numbers too. “ … and it’s not in heels.”
Tidwell will be jumping in heels and dresses and of course, a nun’s costume since she will be playing Deloris Van Cartier in the upcoming production of Sister Act at Cape Fear Regional Theatre. Walker will be playing the detective Eddie Souther.
“We call him sweaty Eddie,” he laughs. “Well, they call me sweaty Eddie.”
This has much to do with, Walker says, the fact that his character is often nervous. He’s the good cop who wants to be the bad cop. For Eddie, the play will show a dynamic journey for his character who starts out as a nervous wreck.
“Anytime you see him, he’s sweating,” Walker laughs. And then suddenly, Walker goes by the alter ego Sweaty Eddie.
The show will include 20 big song numbers and 30 in total. For Director West Hyler, it’s what he would call a “monumental musical.” Hyler was approached first about directing the show and the moment he accepted he could think of no better Deloris than Tidwell. He had gotten to see her perform through his wife’s assistant directing job in a production of Beautiful.
“The show is on her shoulders,” he said. “It’s a marathon performance.”
This also explains Tidwell’s take to the treadmill to ensure she could keep up the vocals with all the dancing that is required in this production. Unlike the movie starring Whoopi Goldberg, the musical Sister Act has original music, leaving out all of the doo whoops of Whoopi’s days.
“You get to see a lot of the characters' internal thoughts and wants,” Hyler says. “It allows a disco style. It’s a very dance-forward show.”
Each of the songs in the show will have dance breaks in them. For Hyler, choosing Deloris’s love interest wasn’t as straightforward. He knew that Eddie in this production would need to sing. He needed someone to do all that and find the comedy and love interest piece of the show.
“You have to have someone that is immediately likable,” Hyler says.
Mary Kate, the Artistic Director for Cape Fear Regional Theatre, suggested Walker. Walker, of course, accepted the role but says he has found the challenge in the cohesiveness of the story. For Walker, he has to go on stage and make the “story make sense.”
“I am on the spectrum,” he says. “When things just go through the alphabet things go a little easier for me.”
This isn’t always the case in musical theater. Pivoting is key. The theatre, its current actors and Hyler, all feel like the upcoming show is a great responsibility. It is the last show in the theatre before the renovations begin this summer.
“It’s the ultimate show to do it with,” says Ashley Owen, Marketing Director for the theatre.
The production will run from May 2nd until May 26th. Tickets are on sale online with one night already being sold out.
The folks at the theatre will host a military appreciation night and teacher appreciation night with 25% off of ticket prices. There will also be a “Disco Diva Night” featuring snacks and drinks prior to the feature as well as a “Boogie” with L-Boogie the choreographer for the show.
Tickets range from $19-$37. For more information visits www.cfrt.org.

The Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra's season closer, Bad to the Bones, is one not to be missed. Scheduled for Saturday, May 11 at 7:30 p.m. at Seabrook Auditorium, it will feature Joseph Alessi. Alessi is not only the principal trombonist of the New York Philharmonic and a Grammy award-winning musician, he is also a friend and mentor to the FSO's music director, Stephan Sanders.
Sanders shared, “Joe Alessi changed my life! His artistry and discipline inspired me to dream big and work hard. I am so grateful to consider him a mentor and friend. Our Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra musicians and audience are in for an unforgettable experience with Joe, the greatest trombonist of all time.”
Alessi has showcased his musical talent alongside symphony ensembles across the globe, and now the FSO is privileged to have him grace the Fayetteville community with a captivating performance alongside the entire orchestra.
Alessi's talents will be on full display during Nino Rota’s Trombone Concerto and Launy Grøndahl’s Trombone Concerto.
Nino Rota was known for composing pieces that gave opportunities to instruments not usually showcased or highlighted in the orchestral repertoire like the harp, bassoon, and the trombone.
Danish composer Launy Grøndahl composed Trombone Concerto in 1924. This work was inspired by the trombone section of the Casino Theatre Orchestra in Copenhagen. Grøndahl was a violinist in the orchestra which he joined at the young age of thirteen.
Looking for a lift to the concert? There will be a trolley service provided. The shuttle will collect passengers at the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra office, located at 310 Green Street, in the main parking lot. The pick-up time is at 6:30 p.m. sharp, and it will bring you back after the concert. No reservations are needed, and it's completely free to use.
Bad to the Bones will be the last performance of the 2023-2024 season. A new season announcement is expected soon, says Meghan Woolbright, the FSO’s Marketing & Office Manager.
“We will be announcing our 2024-2025 season in early May before this concert. Expect to hear a combination of pops, classical, and chamber music for all to enjoy with some incredible collaborations from artists worldwide!”
Also, mark your calendars for the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra's Independence Day Concert at Festival Park on July 4. There will not only be incredible music from the FSO, but from Cumberland Choral Arts and the 82nd Airborne Division All-American Band as well.
Tickets for the Bad to the Bones concert range from $5-$32 and can be purchased at https://www.fayettevillesymphony.org/ or call the office at 910-433-4690.

The Greater Fayetteville Chamber is hosting its President's Speaker Series, Friday, May 3rd, from 8:50 a.m. to noon at Fayetteville Technical Community College’s Cumberland Hall Auditorium.
The GFC, which celebrates its 125th anniversary this year, is proud to establish itself as a key component to promote and maintain a healthy, business-friendly environment.
"The Chambers are able to communicate with the government and convince them to use business-friendly public policy," Greater Fayetteville Chamber CEO and President Nat Robertson stated in describing its role as a catalyst in shaping organizations in the right direction.
Through their events and programs, the Chamber supports their members as well as the business community. GFC is a continuous presence at ribbon cuttings, giving new establishments a warm welcome in the community. The Chamber carries the title as being the largest independent Chamber in southeastern North Carolina.
The Chamber operates under their three pillars: education, advocacy, and networking. In addition, the Chamber is very involved with the business community through their consumer protection, government relations, military affairs council, chamber ambassadors, and Leadership Fayetteville programs.
Since their inception, GFC's three pillars and programs have established the Chamber as a recognizable force in the community, hosting over 100 events on average per year to foster and promote a strong business community. They are known for their signature events, such as the Chairman's Coffee Club, Business After Hours, Annual Awards Gala, and Business Networking Breakfast, which attract a large number of attendees.
The President's Speaker Series is one of the Chamber's many signature events, kicking off its first series for the year. The president series, which will replace the Homegrown Regional Speakers series, is part of the education pillar that will provide an array of educational topics for members and guests.
"The speaker series came about as a way to communicate with our members on important issues that matter to them," Robertson shared.
Next month's president series will provide just that. Attendees from various sectors will have the chance to network with each other and acquire vital knowledge at the upcoming speaker series. The series will include two sessions that are essential for members and guests. Session One, held from 9 a.m. to 10:20 a.m., has a core focus in time-tested strategies to avoid HR-related complications and friction on your team, while Session Two, from 10:40 to noon, will center on not wasting the organization's most valuable resources by ineffectively using information technology, according to the Chambers' monthly newsletter.
Peter Marksteiner will be the guest speaker for the event, an honor for the Chamber. Marksteiner is a well-known former Circuit Executive and Clerk of Court for the Federal Circuit's US Court of Appeals. He also served as Director of Civil Law and Litigation for the Judge Advocate General's Corps. His career has earned him many accolades and recognitions, including the Military Service Award, the Air Force Association's Outstanding Career Military Attorney Award, and the Legion of Merit.
"Marksteiner’s specialization is a natural fit for the business community because it goes together," Robertson stated.
Marksteiner's strong background and experience in legal practice and managing business operations through the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in the areas of human resources, budgeting, procurement, physical plant and security, information technology, and the Circuit Library and the Office of General Counsel will bring a wealth of knowledge for guests to utilize in their every business practice.
"It's great to hear from someone who specializes in that field on a legal practice side, which brings a great interest to our business population,” Robertson added, noting the speaker's enriching and valuable insight into his field of expertise.
The day prior, May 2nd, Marksteiner will grace his presence at the Fayetteville Arts Council, located at 301 Hay Street in the heart of downtown, at 6:30 p.m. through the chamber's Military Affairs Council social. This event is open to the chamber’s Military Affairs Council members.
The series is just one example of how the Chamber continues to uphold its 125-year legacy in the community, paving the way for businesses to prosper.
"It's about building a healthy business community; we are so thankful for our members who have decided to join us in that mission," Robertson stated.
Any members interested in attending this profound event must pre-register at www.faybiz.com under events. The series is free of charge and open to Chamber, Military Affairs, or Consumer Protection Division members and their guests.
Readers can also visit the site or call the Chamber at 910-483-8133 to learn more about their membership packages, and how to join, as well as other upcoming events hosted by the Greater Fayetteville Chamber.

The Cumberland County Board of Commissioners and the Fayetteville Public Works Commission (PWC) announced a partnership to provide safe drinking water to the Gray’s Creek Water and Sewer District. The announcement was made last week during a press conference held at Gray’s Creek Elementary School, one of the locations that will benefit from the extension of water in the district.
The Board of Commissioners, acting as the governing board for the district, and PWC entered into a Memorandum of Understanding to expand public water to address widespread GENX contamination of private drinking water wells.
The collaboration underscores a commitment from both organizations to safeguarding public health and strengthening community well-being.
“Today is truly a monumental day in the history of Cumberland County,” said Board of Commissioners Chairman Glenn Adams. “While this problem was not created by the County, the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners and the Cumberland County Legislative Delegation has been committed since the beginning to addressing this issue for our citizens – who deserve access to regulated, reliable, safe drinking water.”
Cumberland County’s efforts to address the GenX contamination have focused on developing deep wells, treatment facilities, and distribution lines in Gray’s Creek. However, the commissioners have determined it is in the best interest of residents to change the scope of the project and partner with PWC to expand the utility’s current water system to provide source water and service to the Gray’s Creek District.
Timothy Bryant, PWC CEO stated “Since forever chemicals were first discovered in the Cape Fear River, PWC has been at the forefront of treatment options and continued advocacy to prevent contaminants like GenX from being discharged into our source water. That commitment has not changed. All citizens deserve high-quality water to drink, and we are proud to partner with the County to provide that valuable resource to Gray’s Creek as quickly and cost-effectively as possible.”
Donald Porter, PWC Commission Chair added, “My fellow PWC Commissioners and I are proud to be able to help PWC and the County form this partnership for the benefit of our citizens. Our Gray’s Creek community deserves access to high-quality drinking water and together we can get the job done.”
According to sources under the agreement, PWC will provide funding for water to Gray’s Creek and Alderman Road elementary schools and oversee the design and construction of the water mains for the schools. In addition to serving the schools, the utility will provide drinking water that meets PWC standards to the whole district and assume responsibility for the ownership and operation of all water distribution facilities within the district.
The County will engage district residents to discuss early sign-ups and work to secure funds to assist with tap fees. The Board has also agreed to use a portion of the County’s ARPA funding, as well as other funding already secured for the project, to fund the extension of PWC water into the district.
As Cumberland County and PWC embark on this collaborative endeavor, the shared goal remains steadfast: to safeguard public health, foster community resilience, and pave the way for a brighter, healthier future for all residents of Gray’s Creek and beyond.
More information about this collaboration can be found by visiting www.cumberlandcounty.gov/grayscreekwater.

Both of my readers have seen Disney’s Snow White. Today, we rip the lid off Disney’s prettified version. The original Snow White story by Grimm is actually grim. The real story has it all: wicked step mother, fried animal entrails, dwarves, attempted cannibalism, stereotypical women’s work, necrophilia, and red-hot iron dancing shoes. Let us begin.
Once upon a time, a beautiful Queen gazed out her window at falling snow. The windowsill was painted black, the white snow glistened, and the Queen pricked her finger causing three drops of bright red blood to fall on the snow. The Queen had a sudden desire to have “a child as white as the snow, as red as blood, and black as the window frame.” She soon became pregnant, delivering a little girl she named Snow White. The Queen died in childbirth as was the custom in those days. Her King remarried a beautiful woman who became Snow White’s wicked stepmother.
The new Queen had a Magic Mirror into which she daily chanted: “Mirror, mirror on the wall/ Who is the fairest of them all?” The Mirror said the Queen was the prettiest until Snow White turned seven. The Mirror answered, “Your Majesty, you are still lovely, it's true/ But Snow White is a thousand times fairer than you.” This sent Queenie into a major tizzy. She ordered her Huntsman to take Snow White into the forest to kill her. Huntsman had to bring back Snow’s liver and lungs as proof of death.
Huntsman couldn’t bring himself to kill Snow. He let her run away into the deep woods hoping a wild animal would eat her.
He killed a boar instead, delivering pig lungs and liver to Queenie. Queenie, believing the guts to be Snow’s; breaded them, fried them, and ate them with fava beans and a nice Chianti.
Snow wandered through the forest, finally finding the cottage of the seven dwarves. She fell asleep in a bed. The dwarves found her when they came home from working in Mr. Peabody’s coal mine.
When Snow woke up, she told them the Huntsman story and begged to stay. The dwarves agreed to let her stay if she kept house, swept, cleaned, cooked, made the beds, washed the linen, and darned their socks. Women’s lib did not exist in Medieval times in the Dark Forest.
The Mirror blabbed to Queenie that Snow was still living. This freaked out Queenie to no end. She began a series of attempted murders of Snow. She disguised herself as a peddler selling lace. When Snow let her in, Queenie tied the lace so tightly around Snow that she could not breathe.
When the dwarves came home, they loosened the lace allowing Snow to recover. Queenie then poisoned a comb and in a new disguise knocked on the cottage door. Snow was smitten with the beautiful comb. Despite the dwarves warning, she let Queenie in. Queenie combed Snow’s hair which caused her to collapse.
Queenie said, “Let’s see how lovely you are when you start to rot!” This statement is harsh even for the Dark Ages. When the dwarves returned, they pulled the comb out of Snow’s hair which revived her.
Finally, Queenie came up with oldest trick in the book—the poisoned apple. One side of the apple was white and one side was red. There was no poison on the white side, which Queenie bit into to show Snow it was safe. Snow ate the poisoned right side of the apple and died. The dwarves were unable to revive her.
They made her a glass coffin to admire her corpse, like Lenin’s in the Mausoleum in Red Square. Months passed and Snow did not decay. One day a Handsome Prince of Necrophilia Province came by and saw Snow’s casket. He fell in love with her corpse and offered to buy her body from the dwarves. They refused to sell her but when the Prince professed his love, they gave her body to the Prince.
The Prince had his lackeys haul the coffin to his kingdom. A clumsy lacky stumbled, dropping the coffin which dislodged the poisoned apple from Snow’s throat. She immediately revived and fell in love with the Prince.
The Prince threw a grand wedding to celebrate, inviting the Kingdom to party down. Queenie showed up but Snow was ready for her. Queenie was made to put on iron shoes that had been heated red hot in a fireplace. Queenie was forced to wear the shoes and dance until she died. Snow and Prince Charming Necrophilia lived happily ever after.
So, what have we learned today? Don’t let strangers in your house. Women can trade their household labor for dwarf-insured security. Not every apple a day will keep the doctor away. Red hot iron shoes can cure the silent tragedy of toe fungus if you can’t find Fungi-Nail.

I’ve never been more delighted to be mistaken.
A couple of weeks ago, I wrote a column observing that, over the first eight months of the 2023-24 fiscal year, the state’s General Fund revenue was down slightly from what was collected during the first eight months of the previous fiscal year.
North Carolina faced no “fiscal emergency,” I wrote, but unless revenue collections were “bountiful” this spring, the General Assembly wouldn’t have lots of extra cash to work with during its short session.
Well, state economists have just released their consensus revenue forecast — and bountiful isn’t too strong a description. For the current fiscal year, they now expect $34.1 billion in General Fund revenues. That’s $413 million more than originally projected. As for the $34.4 billion now expected for FY 2024-25, that’s a full $1 billion more than the budgeted amount.
Why was this year’s “April surprise” so pleasant? Collections from the personal income tax finance about half our General Fund and typically drive our revenue trends. That’s true this time, as well, as income taxes are now expected to run 2.6% above the baseline this year and 4.2% next year. Sales taxes are also up, albeit more modestly.
Contrary to the expectations they formed last year, economists for the legislature’s Fiscal Research Division and the governor’s Office of State Budget and Management say our economy “demonstrated greater resilience and avoided a predicted period of stagnant growth, or ‘slowcession,’ in late 2023 and 2024. Instead, the April 2024 consensus forecast expects a ‘soft landing,’ with inflation easing toward the Federal Reserve’s 2% target even as the economy continues to grow at a modestly slower pace than in 2023.”
Could their new judgment be overly sanguine? Sure. Forecasting isn’t an exact science. But it’s now very likely the state will experience a surplus in General Fund revenue of about 1.2% for the fiscal year ending in June. And it is now reasonable for state legislators to assume something like a 3% overage when adjusting the General Fund budget for next year.
They’ll have more transportation dollars to work with, as well. Strong collections from the state tax on motor fuels will generate about $104 million more than projected this year for the Highway Fund and Highway Trust Fund, plus another $101 million next year.
Given the circumstances, you’d expect every state agency, local government, or private interest to line up at the Legislative Building, ready to pitch — and you’d be right!
As I have previously argued, some of these pitches ought to deliver results, as they are in the public interest and consistent with fundamental principles of fiscal conservatism. Lawmakers ought to raise pay for public employees, for example, with a particular emphasis on merit-based increases and hard-to-fill positions such as correction officers, lab technicians, and science teachers.
Also deserving consideration is the community college system’s Propel NC initiative, which would allocate more funds to high-demand fields such as advanced manufacturing, public safety, and allied health while instituting a three-year cycle for reevaluate spending based on job and salary data.
North Carolina is already in the process of phasing out its tax on corporate income and reducing its flat tax on personal income. That’s why next year’s revenue, while likely to exceed original projections, will rise just 0.7% over 2023-24.
Tax cuts are already baked in the cake, as it were. Still, the revenue revisions give lawmakers more fiscal space to tackle other tax-reform priorities while devoting additional funds to the Opportunity Scholarship program, which has attracted far more parents seeking educational alternatives for their children than currently funding can accommodate.
Under existing law, a portion of the General Fund revenue surpluses will flow automatically into state reserves and fund the construction and maintenance of public facilities. Prudence argues for devoting additional funds to high-priority infrastructure projects and to shrinking the unfunded liability in the state’s health plan.
There’s good news on revenues. Now, let’s keep delivering good policy.

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

"Bandancing," happening Tuesday, April 23 at 7:30 p.m., is part of the Fayetteville Symphonic Band’s concert series.
"The Fayetteville Symphonic Band is a community of instrumentalists who are serious about keeping good wind band music in Fayetteville. The band’s membership is around 55, consisting mostly of wind and percussion musicians. The director of the band is Dr. Daniel McCloud, who plays in the Fayetteville Symphony’s percussion section and also is their Assistant Conductor,” explains Anna Meyer, the executive director at the symphony.
Band Director Dr. Daniel McCloud gave a great rundown of what concert-goers should expect.
“‘Bandancing’ will feature a musical program inspired by dance! Whether you prefer the ‘Cake Walk’ and ‘Schottische,’ or the shuffle and samba are more your speed, the concert promises to be groovy, light-hearted and musically satisfying.
Along with familiar composers such as Karl L. King (The Trombone King), Jack Stamp (Bandancing), and Robert Russell Bennett (Suite of Old American Dances), we'll feature new compositions from Methodist University student, Jay Berry (Howlin', Moanin', and Growlin'); and founding band member, Jonathan Andrews (Strong),” he said.
This hour-long concert will start at 7:30 p.m. in the Huff Concert Hall on the Methodist University campus.
This family-friendly event is free and open to everyone. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/72cs6pvb

The Kentucky Derby is one of the most anticipated and celebrated horse racing events in the world. It is a true sporting spectacle that captures the attention of millions of people, both avid horse racing fans and casual observers. Held annually on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, this year it will be Saturday, May 4th.
The history and significance of the Kentucky Derby
The Kentucky Derby is not just a race; it is a tradition that dates to 1875. The race is often referred to as "The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports" due to its fast-paced nature. With a distance of one and a quarter mile, the horses thunder down the track in a thrilling display of speed and endurance. The race attracts top thoroughbred horses from around the world, all vying for the prestigious title of Kentucky Derby champion.
The iconic traditions of the Kentucky Derby
From the iconic mint juleps to the extravagant hats worn by spectators, the race is a showcase of style and glamour. It is an event where people come together to celebrate not only the sport of horse racing but also the traditions and customs that make the Kentucky Derby unique.
One of the most iconic traditions of the Kentucky Derby is the playing of "My Old Kentucky Home" before the race. As the horses make their way onto the track, the crowd stands and joins in singing this heartfelt ballad. It is a moment that gives me goosebumps every time I witness it. This tradition dates to 1921 and has become a symbol of unity and pride for the people of Kentucky.
Another iconic tradition is the fashion that accompanies the Kentucky Derby. Known as a showcase for extravagant hats and bold attire, the Kentucky Derby is a chance for attendees to show off their sense of style. The infield may be where the rowdy partygoers gather, but it is in the grandstands where you will find the most fashionable crowd. From vibrant sundresses to tailored suits, everyone puts their best foot forward on this day.
Of course, no discussion of the Kentucky Derby would be complete without mentioning the iconic drink: the mint julep. This refreshing cocktail, made with bourbon, sugar, water and fresh mint leaves, has become synonymous with this prestigious event. Sipping on a mint julep while watching the horses thunder down the track is a quintessential Kentucky Derby experience.
Don your most extravagant hat, mix up that mint julep and join in the fun at one of these Kentucky Derby events

April 21-Hat Majesty: A Kentucky Derby Hat Decorating Event at 1671 Buffalo Lake Road, Sanford, 2 p.m.
Prepare for race day with a workshop on decorating Kentucky Derby hats! Participate in an afternoon of creativity and fashion as you receive guidance on crafting your own beautiful Derby hat.
Whether you plan to attend the Derby in person or host a Derby-themed event, having a fabulous hat is essential.
They will supply you with a range of materials, including feathers, ribbons, flowers, and jewels, to assist you in designing a hat that showcases your personality and captures the essence of the Derby. Tickets are $85. All tickets include your hat and all embellishments along with a complimentary beverage of your choice. For more information visit: https://tinyurl.com/723k5t4c or call 910-262-1644.

May 4-Kentucky Derby Watch Party! at Stewart's Tavern, 116 N. Main Street, Raeford, 2:30 p.m.
Come and join Stewart's Tavern for an exciting Kentucky Derby viewing event. Enjoy their special offers on classic derby drinks and stand a chance to win a $100 gift card for the Best Derby Hat. The pre-race coverage will begin at 2:30 p.m. For more information visit: https://tinyurl.com/5n6ua4n9, or call 910-479-1313.

May 4-diVine Kentucky Derby Watch Party & Hat Contest at Divineloungenc-390 SW Broad St, Southern Pines, 4 p.m.
Come and be a part of the excitement at the diVIne Lounge in downtown Southern Pines for the 2024 Kentucky Derby Watch Party. Indulge in refreshing $10 Woodford Mint Juleps while immersing yourself in the thrilling atmosphere.
The highlight of the event is the Best Hat competition, where the winner will be awarded a $50 diVIne gift card and a bottle of wine. For more information visit: https://tinyurl.com/e6vmnejp, or call 910-467-7065.

May 4-Horses Benefit Kids Derby Day Barnraiser BBQ, Bourbon & Bluegrass at Weymouth Center Barn, 555 E Connecticut Ave, Southern Pines, 3 p.m.
Come out to the "Horses Benefit Kids" Fundraiser and join in for a special Derby Day Watch Party event. This event aims to raise funds for the WEYMOUTH EQUESTRIANS program, which provides young individuals with the opportunity to learn horse riding and care for horses on the historic Weymouth property.
Indulge in bourbon, BBQ, and bluegrass at the Barn-Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities. Witness the thrilling Weymouth Equestrians Team Show Jumping Invitational from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Teams, consisting of two professionals and two amateurs, will compete on courses laid out on the beautiful grounds of Weymouth Center. Participate in exciting contests for the best hat and best dressed.
There will also be prizes and a raffle for your Derby picks. Raise a toast with wine, beer, and Mint Julep while watching the Kentucky Derby. For more information visit: https://tinyurl.com/5c8wwka8, or call 910-692-6261.

The weekend of May 3 to May 5 is definitely something to look forward to! There are two fantastic occasions taking place, and both revolve around everyone's favorite beverage – beer! Dirtbag Ales Brewery & Taproom is celebrating Cinco de Mayo with its “Tacos & Beer” event and Heckler Brewing Company is celebrating Oktoberfest with its “Springfest!” event. Clear off your calendar and check out the details for each event below.
Springfest! at Heckler Brewing Company
Heckler Brewing is located at 5780 Ramsey St #102 and has three days of beer, music and food lined up. The festival is scheduled to take place on Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11:30 p.m., and on Sunday from noon until 7 p.m.
They are excited to announce that they are bringing back their '59 Kolsch, a beer that hasn't been available since the previous winter when it was produced as a limited trial batch. When asked to describe the ‘59 Kolsch, Rebecca Burger, Heckler’s General Manager, said, “It is a light bodied, slightly malty, light gold colored Ale (style beer) that drinks like a Lager (style beer). Kolschs are traditionally fermented by either using a warmer temperature with a lager yeast (which normally ferments at a colder temperature) or an Ale yeast fermented at a colder temperature (usually done at a warmer temperature). We use a suitable Ale yeast that allows for a cooler than usually fermentation temperature and yields a very clear and clean beer. Overall very refreshing and great for the start of warmer weather.”
Another great highlight of Springfest! will be incredible German cuisine. Indulge in a mouthwatering menu that includes beer brats simmered in their signature Kristalweizen, succulent chicken schnitzel, traditional German-style potato salad, refreshing cucumber salad, pretzels paired with delectable beer cheese, and a delightful new homemade dessert pretzel so amazing you will think you are at Oktoberfest. The ‘59 Kolsch beer and German food will be available all three days.
If you pop by on Saturday the 4th you will be treated to Bavarian music from The Fayetteville Bavarian Brass Band. Established in 1991, this band includes talented musicians from Fayetteville who specialize in playing German-American Oktoberfest "oompah" style music.
Saturday will also feature a number of contests. First up in the Best Dressed Contest for the couple, man, woman and child that has the best traditional Bavarian attire. The winners will receive Heckler Gift cards ($50 for couples, $25 for individuals, and a milkshake for kids.)
There will also be the traditional Oktoberfest contest-the stein hoisting contest where participants will see who can hold a filled 1 liter Bavarian style beer stein with their arm outstretched in front of them. The contestant's arm must remain parallel (or no less than parallel) to the floor and cannot bend their elbow. The contestant holding their stein without spilling longer than the other contestants wins. The winner gets a Heckler Gift card ($25).
For more information on this great event be sure to visit Heckler Brewing Company’s Facebook page here: https://tinyurl.com/yvk2apje They can also be reached by phone at 910-339-5505 and emailed at taproom@hecklerbeer.com.
Tacos & Beer at Dirtbag Ales
Dirtbag Ales is not giving you a one-day Cinco de Mayo celebration-they are celebrating ALL weekend. They describe their event as “a celebration of Cinco de Mayo and the beautiful unity that is beer and tacos.” They are located at 5435 Corporation Drive in Hope Mills and will have different food trucks and music each day of the event as well as the relaunch of their Cerveza Buena beer.
Their Cerveza Buena beer was last available in Spring of 2023 and is described as “a Mexican Lager brewed with a hint of lime and mango. This refreshingly crisp lager is a great summer drink and will help keep you cool (4.2% ABV).” All weekend long they will be selling $5 Cerveza Buena pints to celebrate this comeback.
Check out the amazing lineup of food trucks and live music for this festive weekend:
Friday, May 3rd:
5 p.m to 10 p.m. -Food by Allisons Tacos & Hollywood Taco Shop
7 p.m. to 10 p.m. -Music by Whiskey Pines
Saturday, May 4th:
12 p.m. to 9 p.m. -Food by Allisons Tacos, El Toro Alebrije, Josef's Churro Truck, Taco Arepa
7 p.m. to 10 p.m. - Music by 1789
Sunday, May 5th:
9 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. - Beer & Yoga w/ Kyle
10 a.m. to 2 p.m. - The Dirtbag Farmers Market
10 a.m. to 3 p.m. - Food by Josef's Churro Truck, Authentique, EL Toro Alebrije, Flakis Mexi Snacks, Latin Flavours, R Burger, Taco Arepa, Vagabond
12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. -Music @Guy Unger Band
For more information on the Taco & Beers event visit Dirtbag Ales Facebook page here: https://tinyurl.com/33n7n5dr They can also be reached by phone at 910-426-2537 or by email at info@dirtbagales.com

Wine & Design Fayetteville has recently relocated to larger premises. Their new address is 2180 Skibo Rd. Ste C, situated next to Popeyes, just north of the Skibo and Raeford intersection. The decision to move was driven by their need for a space that could accommodate growth and expansion. With the new location, they can now accommodate double the number of people and introduce new workshops, such as laser woodworking.
Wine & Design offers a large range of projects.
“We offer classes that work with chunky yarn where you can knit blankets, hats, dog beds, and more. We offer door leaners and door hangers that follow seasons. Just recently, we introduced a planter for real or fake plants that is made out of the image of your pet. People love them,” said owners Mike and Jenna.
Resin workshops are also a new addition.
“Our resin workshops are really fun with all kinds of different options. From Harry Potter Wizard Houses, to light sabers, to cute cows, we paint and design different themed frames and pour resin in for a durable project you keep forever. We even offer a personalized custom resin pour family portrait.”
With May 4th, Star Wars Day, right around the corner, what would be better than a Resin 4 Foot Light Up Saber Workshop? The crew at Wine & Design are huge Star Wars fans. Participants will have the opportunity to personalize their saber to any color scheme they want. The Wine & Design artists will walk you through the whole process of how to create your masterpiece.
You are encouraged to bring your own beer, wine, champagne, or non-alcoholic beverage or snack to enjoy while you work on your project. (No liquor is permitted). The class will last for about two hours.
After the first class sold out, another one was added with the likelihood of selling out as well. Reservations are required to participate. If you are interested in signing up for this class visit: https://tinyurl.com/3y9cbwmf. You can also contact them by email at fayetteville@wineanddesign.com or by phone at 910-366-5911.
Also available May 4th is a May the 4th Be With You Star Wars Trivia & Paint Night. This class is also approximately two hours long with reservations required. BYOB or BYOW as well. To register for this workshop visit: https://tinyurl.com/42xz4cbp
Get the full list of events planned at Wine & Design on their website calendar:
https://www.wineanddesign.com/calendar/fayetteville-nc 

(Photo: Wine & Design's new location on Skibo Rd allows for more space for larger classes. Their next specialty class will center around May 4, Star Wars Day, with a resin light saber workshop. Photo courtesy of Wine & Design's Facebook Page). 

 On Saturday, May 4, the serene grounds behind the First Baptist Church at 4621 Cameron Rd. in Hope Mills will transform into a vibrant oasis of music, arts and camaraderie as the community comes together for the Living Water Music Festival. From 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., attendees are invited to immerse themselves in a day filled with live performances, artisanal crafts, delicious food and meaningful connections, all supporting a noble cause.
Nestled on a bustling 4 acres of land, the festival promises an unforgettable experience for all ages. With a diverse lineup of local entertainment spanning hits from the 60s and 70s, country, jazz, bluegrass, gospel and contemporary Christian music, there's something to captivate every musical palate. From toe-tapping tunes to soul-stirring melodies, the festival stage will showcase the rich tapestry of talent within the community.
In addition to the musical extravaganza, the festival grounds will host an array of vendors offering an eclectic mix of arts & crafts, jewelry, beauty and wellness consultations. Attendees are encouraged to bring their chairs, blankets and picnic baskets to fully enjoy the outdoor ambiance while exploring the offerings from local artisans and entrepreneurs.
One of the festival's highlights is the Classic Car Cruise-In, where vintage automobile enthusiasts can admire an impressive display of meticulously restored vehicles. Foodies will also be delighted by the presence of food trucks from local culinary establishments such as This Little Pig, Sunset Slush of Grays Creek, Some Tings' Cookin’ and many more, offering an irresistible assortment of culinary delights to satisfy every craving.
However, a more profound purpose drives the event beyond the music, food and festivities. Proceeds from the Living Water Music Festival will benefit Gate Beautiful, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to offering a clear path to freedom for individuals caught in the snares of prostitution or addiction. Gate Beautiful's mission extends beyond aiding victims of human trafficking to provide support and restoration for individuals on all sides of the trafficking issue, including victims, buyers and traffickers themselves.
Human trafficking is a pervasive and insidious crime that affects individuals of all ages, genders and backgrounds. Despite the clandestine nature of the crime, organizations like Gate Beautiful work tirelessly to provide rapid response, case management, and individualized restoration planning to those in need. By raising awareness and rallying support through events like the Living Water Music Festival, communities can contribute to the fight against human trafficking and offer hope and healing to survivors.
Ronnie Holland, an organizer from First Baptist Church spoke about the inspiration behind the Living Water Music Festival and its significance to the community.
“The Living Water Music Festival was born to foster unity and support within our community while addressing a pressing issue like human trafficking. Music has a unique power to bring people together and inspire positive change. By organizing this festival, we aim to provide attendees with a day of enjoyment and raise awareness and funds for Gate Beautiful, an organization doing crucial work in our area,” Holland said.
“At First Baptist Church, we view ourselves as more than just a place of worship; we see ourselves as an integral part of the community. It's our responsibility and privilege to support initiatives that promote compassion, justice and healing,” he said. “Our partnership with Gate Beautiful exemplifies our commitment to addressing social issues with empathy and action. Together, we hope to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those affected by human trafficking and related challenges.”
The community is encouraged to come out to the event to support the efforts of Gate Beautiful and First Baptist Church, but the festival isn’t the only way to show support.
“Individuals can support Gate Beautiful and its mission in several ways. Volunteering time, making financial donations, or simply spreading awareness about the issue of human trafficking are all valuable contributions. For those attending the Living Water Music Festival, we encourage donations of cases of water, which the Red Hat Ladies will collect at the event entrance. Additionally, individuals can contact Gate Beautiful directly to inquire about volunteer opportunities or contribute financially. Every effort, no matter how small, makes a difference in the lives of those impacted by human trafficking,” said Holland.
As the Living Water Music Festival approaches, anticipation builds within the community for a day filled with music, fellowship, and meaningful support for a worthy cause. Through the collective efforts of organizers, volunteers, performers, and attendees, the festival stands as a beacon of hope and solidarity, demonstrating the transformative power of community action in the fight against human trafficking.
For more information about the Living Water Music Festival and how you can support Gate Beautiful, please visit www.gatebeautiful.org or contact Ronny Holland at (910) 624-4166 or info@gatebeautiful.org.

(Photo: First Baptist Church on Cameron Road in Hope Mills will host the Living Water Music Festival on May 4. The music festival will benefit Gate Beautiful, a non profit organization dedicated to help those who have been involved in prostitution or addiction. Photo courtesy of First Baptist Church Facebook Page.)

In a much-anticipated event, the beloved Little River Band is gearing up to play at the Crown Theatre at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 4. Fans and rock enthusiasts alike are eager to welcome their favorite band into Fayetteville while on their 2024 American tour. After gracing states like Florida, Washington, and West Virginia, LRB sets their sights on North Carolina. Don’t miss your chance to see rock legends Wayne Nelson, Chris Marion, Ryan Ricks, Colin Whinnery, and Bruce Wallace in person.
LRB was founded in Melbourne, Australia in 1975 by musicians who already enjoyed success in other rock acts over the previous years. The name “Little River Band” comes from a road sign for the Victorian township of Little River. LRB was the first Australian rock band to have sustained commercial success in America.
The late Glenn Frey, founder of The Eagles, called Little River Band “the best singing band in the world,” and their chart-topping songs prove that he was right. LRB celebrated multi-platinum albums and chart breaking hits through the 70s and 80s such as “Cool Change,” “Reminiscing,” “The Night Owls,” “Take It Easy On Me,” and tons more. Their song, “Reminiscing” has even garnered a rare title of having over 5 million air plays on American radio.
Stephen Housden, LRB’s rock-style guitarist, has retired from touring, but encourages and helps out his bandmates while they do. LRB continues to play for sold-out audiences while, according to their website, Housden “continues to write and participate in all things Little River Band.”
The current lineup in LRB includes keyboardist and Dove Award-winning producer Chris Marion, singer-songwriter and guitarist Bruce Wallace, drummer and vocalist Ryan Ricks, and lead guitarist Colin Whinnery. Alongside those four, Wayne Nelson, who joined the band in 1980, quickly became the band’s frontman with bass and lead vocals in 1999.
Bringing their classic hits and love of music around the world, Little River Band is no stranger to performing. Although they started in Australia, their initial focus was to get airplay on American radio. LRB easily achieved that goal with amazing songwriting and insane musical skills. Alongside the previously mentioned song “Reminiscing,” “Lady” follows close behind in American airplay with over 4 million airplays.
In 1981, Wayne Nelson was recognized by the world-renowned Sir George Martin, a producer for the Beatles. Martin chose Nelson to record vocals on two of the band’s biggest songs, “The Night Owls” and “Take It Easy On Me.”
Stephen Housden joined LRB that same year and was a big contributor to their string of top-10 hits.
Although none of the founding members still work with Little River Band, Nelson has been with the band for over 40 years. The band member’s commitment and love of music keep both themselves and their fans lively and excited for every show.
At the annual ARIA Music Awards in 2004, Little River Band was placed into the Australian Recording Industry Association Hall of Fame.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to their music, don’t miss your chance to see Little River Band!
For more information, events, tickets, and pricing, visit reallittleriverband.com or by visiting the Crown Complex’s website at https://www.crowncomplexnc.com/events/detail/little-river-band.

The highly anticipated championship cycling event has arrived! The Carolinas Cycling Association is thrilled to declare that the charming town of Wade, located in Cumberland County, has been chosen as the host for the upcoming 2024 North Carolina and South Carolina Road Cycling Championship, scheduled to take place on April 27 and 28th.
“Hosting the Regional Road Cycling Championship in Cumberland County truly indicates the strong grassroots base that cycling has in southeastern N.C.,” said Mike Thomas, Race Director.
“On behalf of the Cross Creek Cycling Club, we are thrilled to host these two exciting days of amateur bike racing.”
Thomas also holds the position of President at the Cross Creek Cycling Club (C4), which recently marked its 20th anniversary in October 2023. C4 is a member club of USA Cycling that is based in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and the national governing body for bicycle racing in the US. C4 has been honored with the title of "Club of the Year" by USA Cycling on 13 occasions, across different categories. In 2021, USA Cycling specifically recognized C4 as the Master's Club of the Year.
The primary objective of the Cross Creek Cycling Club is to foster inclusivity in cycling, regardless of age or skill level. C4 advocates for all facets of biking, placing particular emphasis on promoting bicycle safety, educating cyclists about their rights and responsibilities, and prioritizing overall health and fitness.
Additionally, they endeavor to facilitate better communication among cyclists, creating avenues for both biking and socializing with fellow enthusiasts. To learn more about the Cross Creek Cycling Club, go to www.crosscreekcyclingclub.org.
The Regional Road Cycling Championship is set to showcase a diverse range of participants, including masters, elite riders, and juniors, in both male and female race categories.
Competitors will have the opportunity to vie for cash prizes totaling up to $1,400, in addition to the highly coveted State Championship Medals.
The 2024 North Carolina and South Carolina Road Cycling Championship is an event that holds immense importance for the cycling community. This championship provides a platform for both amateur and professional cyclists to showcase their skills and compete against the best in the region.
It serves as a stage where riders can test their limits, push themselves to new heights, and gain valuable experience in a competitive environment.
This championship not only brings together cyclists from different backgrounds but also creates a sense of unity within the community.
Sports Marketing Director for the Fayetteville Convention and Visitors Bureau said, “This cycling championship is the start of a collaborative effort between the cycling community, Cumberland County and the city of Fayetteville to bring high-quality amateur bike racing to the region”.
The racecourse, spanning 17 miles, commences at the Wade Community Fire Dept at 7130 Powell Street in Wade, NC. Thomas expressed gratitude for the support received from the Wade Fire Department, acknowledging their generosity in offering the race staging area, parking facilities and complimentary camping.
The race distances will range from 34 miles, equivalent to two loops, to a maximum of 85 miles, which involves completing five loops for the more experienced participants. To get a peek at the route check out it out here: https://www.strava.com/routes/3179172468379457354
Everyone is invited to participate in the event as a spectator or a competitor. The event is free of charge for spectators interested in cheering the racers on.
For those looking to compete, there will be race fields open to the general public on Saturday, April 27.
Go to bikereg.com for online registration details. Mark your calendars and get ready for a weekend of high-speed action and camaraderie. Wade is waiting to welcome you with open arms as you join in on the excitement of this prestigious championship.
For more information go to the CCA Regional Road Race Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/pages/CCA-Regional-Road-Race

(Photo: Members of C4 pose in front of the Field of Honor at the Airborne and Special Operations Museum in Downtown Fayetteville.)

After their exciting event on all things books and STEM, NC Scifest is set to host yet another amazing and informational fair on wind-powered vehicles.
Science fairs have long been an exciting opportunity for kids of all ages and backgrounds to show off their hard work. This April, the spotlight shines on balloon-powered vehicles in the Cumberland County Public Library.
Don’t miss the chance to give you and your kids an educational and creative afternoon on April 23, at North Regional Library on 855 McArthur Road. Join the fun at 3:30 p.m. on this Terrific Tuesday!
Presented by RTI International and proudly produced by Morehead Planetarium Science Center, the NC Scifest offers plenty of chances to learn about Science with their in-person and online events.
Not only can you learn about balloon and wind-powered vehicles, but you and your children can build your very own balloon-powered car and hovercraft! Expect to be amazed by all the different types of vehicles and technologies you’ve
never seen before.
Wind-powered vehicles are considered the best for the environment and a great show of innovation. Kids will be able to learn all about how abundant and inexhaustible wind is as a resource and how it’s used to create all sorts of amazing inventions. Get the kids started on a science kick and help them learn all about the world of science through NC Scifest!
If you can’t make it to this event, don’t worry because NC Scifest has plenty more April events and fairs to choose from. Keep an eye out for other events happening throughout the month.
These events barely scratch the surface of how many opportunities NC Scifest gives to children all over North Carolina. They’ll be hosting over 400 events this month statewide for all ages and backgrounds. Admission is free to most of the events.
It’s easy to feel very inspired by NC Scifest’s mission to teach children all over North Carolina about the world of science and fuel their creativity in the process.
Because of this, many recognize the importance of teaching the next generations about science and their impact on the world.
Another wonderful way to support their cause is through sponsorships. To keep admissions free, NC Scifest relies on sponsors to keep going and welcomes organizations of all kinds to join their mission. Outside of attending and sponsoring, an easy way to support the continued success of NC Scifest is through donations.
For more events and information, visit ncsciencefestival.org. Look for the interactive map and events listing page to find an event close to you and browse their events listing page for more.

The annual NC Science Festival has over four hundred events throughout April statewide, several of which are happening in Fayetteville. The Cumberland County Public Library is partaking in the NC Science Festival this year by offering an escape room on April 30th. It will go from 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m., and admission is free for everyone. The Going Nuclear Escape Room will happen at the Main Headquarters Branch, located at 300 Maiden Lane in downtown Fayetteville.
“Join us for an afternoon of daring escapes, as you try to problem-solve your way out of a nuclear reactor meltdown!” is how the NC Science Festival summarizes the indoor event. It is a hands-on experience perfect for teenagers and families.
The puzzles and clues related to the game will include the use of knowledge related to technology, engineering, physics, mathematics, chemistry and science in general. This is a great opportunity to develop an appreciation for science and a wonderful learning experience for free at the library. It is important for kids and adults alike to take an interest in science, as it encourages curiosity and learning about our world.
What exactly is an escape room? An escape room is a very immersive game that involves being locked in a room with other people. Games involve a series of puzzles with a limited time to accomplish them all, which makes it a good teamwork and time management exercise. Each escape room tends to have its unique theme, with the goal of finding a way out of the room.
Usually, it involves finding a key to “escape”. The theme for this particular escape room is scientific, involving a pretend scenario of escaping a locked room before a nuclear reactor meltdown. Escape rooms are exciting and enjoyable, putting attendees’ on-the-spot problem-solving capabilities and critical thinking skills to the test.
This specific event is part of a collection of other events for the April 2024 NC Science Festival. According to their website, the main goal of the yearly festival is to “help spread science education through exciting, educational, and fun hands-on science events. The educational, cultural, and financial impact of science affects all North Carolinians, and we want to make sure that continues through future generations.” They identify it as a period of celebration, as there is so much to cover to the point an entire month is needed to “do our state science celebration justice.”
The NC Science Festival has quite a diverse number of generous sponsors that make events like the Going Nuclear Escape Room possible. Sponsors for this festival include Duke Energy, RTI International, the Biogen Foundation, PBS North Carolina, and even Google.
For any further information about this event, contact the Cumberland County Public Library at 910-483-7727 ext. 1361. Information about this event is also available on the NC Science Festival’s official page at https://ncsciencefestival.org/events/going-nuclear-escape-room.

“I love wildflowers and I am excited to help spread them in every neighborhood.”
— Regan Scott, Cape Fear Botanical Garden Instructor
Just imagine the Cumberland County community garden spaces with tangerine, periwinkle, mustard, crimson, and lavender wildflower blooms from April to September. The North Carolina Science Festival presents Family Program: Seed Balls and Wildflowers on April 27, at Cape Fear Botanical Garden, 536 N. Eastern Blvd. The workshop times are 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. The topics are Life Sciences and the Environment. The event is a hands-on, indoor, and outdoor event.
“Blooming wildflowers provide a burst of color attracting pollinators, such as bees and butterflies which are responsible for one in every three bites of food we eat. Wildflowers provide a lot of benefits,” says Clay Bolt, World Wildlife photographer. ”The root systems along with other grassland plants extend deep into the soil, sharing water and nutrients while holding carbon that would otherwise be released in the air.”
According to the sites of North Carolina Wildflowers and the North Carolina Department of Transportation, North Carolina wildflowers include the Coneflower, Swamp Milkweed, Bur Marigold, Black-Eye-Susan, Fire Pink, Aster, Golden Rod, Bird Foot Violet, Butterfly Weed, and American Bell Flower.
Nakita Gill shares a poetic perspective of wildflowers, “Strong enough to rise again after being trampled upon. Tough enough to weather the worst summer storms and able to flourish in even the most broken places. This is the heart of the Wildflower.”
Seed Balls are the second activity at the North Carolina Science Festival, at Cape Fear Botanical Garden.
“Seed Balls are small clusters of seeds in a protective coating. The coating usually consists of compost, clay, and sometimes organic fertilizers,” according to GrowthRainbow.com. Seed Balls are an ancient and natural farming method for riverbed restoration, and enhancing biodiversity in urban and rural areas, according to Seed Bombs.
The Seed Ball and Wildflowers workshop is a Spring celebration.
“This workshop is a celebration of Spring with a guided tour of the garden’s wildflowers and a chance to get your hands dirty making Seed Balls two diverse ways. The workshop is a great fit for the celebration of native North Carolina Wildflowers and an opportunity for all ages and experience levels to explore the science of gardening. Persons of all ages can experience the science of nature,” shares Barbara Goldentyer, Environmental Education Manager, Cape Fear Botanical Garden.
Let's go wild for wildflowers at the Cape Fear Botanical Garden on April 27.
The $15 admission fee is required online at https://ncsciencefestival.org/events/family-program-seedballs-and-wildflowers and www.capefearbg.org/event/family-program-seed-balls-and-wildflowers. For more information call Cape Fear Botanical Garden at 910-486-0221, Extension 43.

Mark your calendars to attend the musical, Piano Day, at Fayetteville State University’s Rosenthal Building on Saturday, April 27, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., organized by Dr. Amanda Virelles, a passionate pianist and educator. Dive into a world of melody and technique with artist recitals, enlightening master classes, engaging group sessions and inspiring student performances.
“Each year, we have seen an increase in the number of students attending the event. The day kicks off with a captivating artist/faculty recital, setting the tone for an unforgettable experience. The day continues with exclusive master classes where you have the opportunity to connect one-on-one with expert instructors, gaining invaluable insights and honing your skills throughout the day. The day caps off this musical extravaganza with a mesmerizing student recital, showcasing the talent and dedication of our piano community. In addition, there are also group classes and lectures where topics like concert etiquette, performance protocols, competitions, and other topics related to the world of piano performance and pedagogy are discussed,” Dr. Virelles shares.
Dr. Virelles adds, “As we commemorate a decade since the inception of FSU Piano Day, a distinct milestone that holds a dear place in my heart, I have extended an exclusive invitation to students who participated in our 1st Piano Day and our esteemed FSU community. In honor of this significant anniversary, I am delighted to welcome back one of the pioneers who played a pivotal role in shaping the first FSU Piano Day, Valerica Muller. A former FSU student turned accomplished professional, Valerica was instrumental in co-creating and orchestrating the inaugural event in the year 2014. She has a prominent piano studio in Apex, and many of her students are expected to attend this year’s event.
Dr. Virelles has been at FSU since 2013. Her dedication to musical education shines through in her diverse course offerings, ranging from Music Theory and World Music to Piano Literature and Pedagogy. Beyond the classroom, Dr. Virelles collaborates with instrumentalists' students and faculty, lending her exceptional piano skills to elevate their performances to new heights.
A testament to her commitment to nurturing young talent, Piano Day has become a cherished tradition under Dr. Virelles' guidance. This event draws aspiring musicians from Fayetteville and neighboring cities like Raleigh, Apex, Southern Pines, and Raeford, and even budding pianists as young as five years old.
Dr. Virelles, FSU Associate Professor of Piano, Dr. Kristina Henckel, FSU Piano faculty and accompanist, and Valerica Muller, FSU alum and owner of Val's Piano Forte, will teach the Master Classes.
Whether you're an aspiring virtuoso or simply love the enchanting sound of piano music, FSU Piano Day offers a unique opportunity to enhance your skills and immerse yourself in the art of piano performance. It promises an enriching experience for all participants, offering insights, guidance, and inspiration that transcend mere notes on a score.
Are you looking to pursue a music career? Dr. Virelles invites you to connect with like-minded students who share your passion and engage with teachers who can provide invaluable insights to nurture your musical aspirations. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of this vibrant musical community.
Registration is required, go to https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/71706830/fsu-piano-day-registration-required-fayetteville-fayetteville-state-university-affiliated and click on the link provided to register. Lunch will be provided.

(Photo: FSU will be celebrating their 10th annual Piano Day April 27. Photo courtesy of Dr. Amanda Virelles)

It wouldn’t be the Gilbert Theater if it didn’t end the season with a bang. After a revival season, full of patron favorites and ghosts of Christmas past, Ivories, a Queer tale of horror with a splash of humor, is taking the stage as the final show of the season from April 26 to May 12, with shows Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m.. Gilbert Theater is located at 116 Green Street, Downtown Fayetteville, above the Children’s Museum, where they plan to stay.
Ivories “True Horror Begins at Home” was written by the extraordinarily talented, internationally produced playwright, Riley Elton McCarthy, a Fayetteville childhood resident. The synopsis on the Gilbert’s website on Ivories reads, “Brought back to their childhood home to care for the grandmother who is riddled with severe dementia, young prodigal playwright Sloane and their botanist husband Gwyn are struggling to settle into a new routine after having their lives uprooted by tragedy. The longer Sloane stays in their grandmother’s home, the more secrets and childhood trauma begin to resurface, and the couple soon suspects something deeply sinister is afoot in this small, suburban New England estate. Good thing their best friend Beckham’s there to help sort out the estate… right?”
Described as a comedy-horror, Ivories is sure to take you on an emotional rollercoaster of fear, maybe some loathing, and some comedy to blend it all out.
“I find horror to be circumstantially funny,” McCarthy said of their choice to write Ivories as a horror-comedy.
This production has a full cast of seasoned Gilbert Theater regulars: Daniel Adams, Justin Gore Pike, and Michelle Rutherford. Kay Trojan is the stage manager and rounding out the group is Victoria Lloyd, co-director and technical director.
“I felt like we needed some Queer voices, even more so than we usually do at the Gilbert and I’m just really excited to be a part of this,” Lloyd shared of her choice to step in and up as Co-Director.
Ivories had been destined for greatness since its inception.
“I’ve been working on Ivories since 2021, I was a senior in college, getting my BFA in playwriting and acting and I had to write a thesis play, that was a full-length play. I pitched this idea of writing a play about a couple struggling with their sexuality while tending for a dying loved one…
"A friend of mine had really liked the pitch that I had done for that class and asked me to write a 30-page version of that play. 24 hours later, I wrote a 180-page draft instead of 30 and I said ‘hey, it’s not 30 pages, I wrote an entire play, could we do a midnight reading instead?’ So we scheduled the reading, we thought nobody would come, we cast 3 of my dearest friends in the world and we had 300 people come. It was online, in the middle of the night, all of us bored on Zoom watching a reading with elaborate artwork we created for every single room in the house and really embraced the horror of this piece. That was only in its first draft. It was largely successful,” McCarthy said.
Ivories was the first production to be performed in New York without masks at the Tank Theatre, a small off-broadway theater that has given the start to many careers, post-lockdown.
“We sold out within 24 hours of opening ticket sales,” McCarthy humbly stated about the first production success of their play.
While Ivories is a story of identity and loss, it is also a horror, a genre not commonly found on the stage, but one that when done well, provides the audience with a good time in the theater.
“People were really ecstatic to see horror on stage,” McCarthy said of the production at the Tank.
While some critics have not found the humor amongst the horror, Ivories continues to make waves worldwide. McCarthy recently signed a production contract to take Ivories to Dublin, Copenhagen, and Berlin. McCarthy, a military kid, grew up in Fayetteville and got their start in theater at the Gilbert. The production at the Gilbert Theater is truly a full-circle moment for the playwright.
For those patrons looking for an early bird scoop on next season, make sure opening night is on the calendar, as the Gilbert will be revealing next season’s lineup.

(Photo: The poster for the Gilbert Theater's production of Ivories. The show will close out the Gilbert's season. Courtesy of the Gilbert Theater and their Facebook page.)

The Fayetteville Faculty Senate passed a vote of “no confidence” in the leadership of Provost Monica Leach Friday, becoming the latest in a series of UNC System campuses where faculty have expressed their dissatisfaction with administration.
Out of 44 voting senators, 32 voted for the resolution, 8 abstained and 4 voted against.
Faculty Senate Chair Zahra Shekarkhar said the faculty did not come to the resolution hastily but after much discussion.
“It was not one single event,” Shekarkhar said. “It was more a culmination of a lot of different things.”
Faculty members from across the university said they had discussed the resolution in their departments and found no opposition.
Leach was present online for the remote meeting but did not address the resolution in her comments to the senate before the vote.
As Newsline reported this week, the resolution cites more than a dozen points of contention between faculty and the provost.
The most recent and pressing is opposition to a plan to require faculty members to go from teaching a minimum of three classes per semester to four. Faculty members say that will cut into the time they have to prepare for classes, meet with students who need individual attention and mentorship, advise student groups, and perform research or service in the community.
The increase in courses is in response to a new workload policy adopted by the UNC System’s Board of Governors, Leach said in a written statement to Newsline Thursday. Faculty members had their chance to weigh in through a working group, she said.
“Fayetteville State University fully supports its faculty and welcomes the discourse as we make progress towards our shared goals,” Leach wrote in the statement. “Under my guidance, the University established a working group to update its Faculty Workload policy in alignment with the UNC System Faculty Workload policy. ”
“This FSU policy is a requirement by the UNC System and must be brought to the FSU Board of Trustees for approval at its next meeting,” Leach said. “The FSU working group is made up of 16 members representing the four colleges and is co-chaired by Dr. Sonja Brown, Associate Vice Chancellor for Academic and Faculty Affairs and Dr. Zaira Shekarkhar, Associate Professor and Faculty Senate Chair. Our goal in creating the workgroup was to ensure faculty members had representation, awareness, and input in the shaping of the policy.”
Daniel Okunbar, a professor of Computer Science, said he didn’t like seeing a draft of the resolution in media reports ahead of the vote.
“I think there should have been more deliberation before it was made public,” Okunbar said.
Other professors, including Jonathan Breitzer, an assistant professor of Chemistry, said it would have been inappropriate to withhold a draft resolution from the public.
“This is just as much a public body as the [North Carolina General Assembly],” Breitzer said. “So of course the media are privy to what we deliberate on.”
Robert Taber, an associate professor of History, said this resolution had seen much more public discussion and deliberation than other resolutions considered by the Senate, some of which are crafted on the floor during the very meetings where a vote takes place.
“This is not something that is undertaken lightly,” Taber said. “This is solemn.”
A university spokesman provided a written statement after Friday’s vote, saying the university continues to work with faculty members on their concerns.
“Fayetteville State University and its administration continue to address faculty concerns and have met recently with a small group of faculty members regarding the issues they’ve raised,” the statement read.
"We are not in opposition with any faculty member and believe that together, through dialogue, mutual respect, and understanding, we can be progressive in meeting 21st century needs. As a constituent member of the UNC System, we have to ensure that we adhere to the policies and regulations instituted by the UNC System.”
“Our administration and faculty members are forward focused and aligned with ensuring our adherence to these policy changes ahead,” the statement read.
“We will continue to have regular meetings with faculty and administrator workgroups to review and evaluate these new policies and regulations. We have recently hosted a Faculty Senate lunch with the Chancellor and will continue to work together to solve our concerns internally.
The University is set to host a Faculty Town Hall in mid-April to further discuss issues of concern.”

(Photo: Fayetteville State University's campus as seen from above courtesy of Fayetteville State University's Facebook page).

For generations, we worried about overpopulation around the world, but, increasingly, we are now more worried about too few babies arriving in the United States and in many other developed nations.
Let this statistic sink in.
Our nation’s birth rate has dropped an astounding 23 percent since the Great Recession. In less than a century we have transitioned from the unexpected and stunning Baby Boom following World War II to today’s average American mother having 1.6 children, well below the replacement rate of 2.1 needed to maintain population stability.
We are hardly alone.
Nations from Italy to Korea and all in between are in the same or a similar boat, with governments scrambling to entice young citizens into parenthood. Some offer incentives including 2.5-year maternity leaves (Austria), cash payments of $7000 (Russia), and a $30,000 loan which is forgiven if the couple has 3 children (Hungary). Public education campaigns around the baby shortage abound, including one in Denmark asking, “have you counted your eggs today?” Some nations, especially the more authoritarian ones, are restricting access to contraception and reproductive health care, and there is concern in some circles that the United States is moving in that direction as well.
Demographers say there are many reasons for declining birth rates, some positive and others not so much. Education levels have risen since the Baby Boom years, giving men and especially women more options for how to spend their lives as well as greater economic resources to make individual choices.
Many of child-bearing age delay parenthood and some never get there at all. In addition, many young people express concerns about bringing children into our current world of rapid climate change, rampant gun violence, and highly toxic politics. Minority women fear disparities in maternity care and higher pregnancy mortality rates. And, across the board, prospective parents understand the high cost of raising and educating children and understandably wonder whether they can afford to become parents.
I doubt that pleas from politicians and other policymakers for young people to start families ASAP make much difference at all, including promises of cash payments. Deciding to have children changes one’s life forever, and most of us do not care what our government thinks about this most personal decision.
What can we do to encourage young people to reproduce and replace us with new generations, most of whom will become productive, taxpaying adults?
The obvious answer is to make it easier to be a parent, a job that is intense for about two decades and continues even beyond that.
Paid parental leave is a no-brainer. Anyone who has had a baby knows that the adjustment takes not weeks but months and that families need income during that period. When it is time for parents to return to work, someone has to take care of the little one. Some families are fortunate enough to have a grandparent or other relative/friend willing and able to tackle that task for free or with small compensation.
Most families, though, need daycare services, now prohibitively expensive for millions, making affordable daycare a must. Instead of underfunding public education as North Carolina has done in recent years, parents want and need to know that high-quality public education is and will remain available to their children.
The bottom line is this: patriotic pleas for parenthood fall on deaf ears, even for people who might want children.
Smoothing the way for parenthood and supporting those who choose it will help more prospective parents think pink and blue.

Publisher’s Note:
I’m yielding my editorial space to publish a Letter to the Editor we received from a Fayetteville resident who addresses a major (and common) local safety concern that weighs heavily on the hearts and minds of thousands of Fayetteville residents. I applaud this writer for his bold initiative in attempting to bring his concerns to our city leaders.
It is my hope, that this letter will inspire and motivate others to get involved by voicing their opinions and sharing their experiences with elected officials. This is the ultimate way to effect change. Thank you for reading the Up & Coming Weekly community newspaper.
— Bill Bowman

I went to the April 3rd meeting of Fayetteville City’s Council Community Safety Committee to voice my complaints over speeders with their ear-piercing, unmuffled cars and motorcycles. I never knew we had such a committee until I was directed there by the 911 operator.
I came prepared with a speech and expected to see many more like-minded concerned citizens present, but I was the only non-committee member there. Maybe not too many people know about this resource. Interesting.
I was cordially greeted and asked the nature of my presence. I told them my intentions and gave the Chairman of the Committee, Council Member Mario Benavente, a copy of my presentation since I would not be allowed to present it. He said the first step for concerns like mine begins with my District Five representative, Lynne Greene.
He took my contact information, and I showed myself out. This is my speech to the committee:
Fayetteville police do not rule the streets. They are overwhelmed by speeders with their ear-piercing, unmuffled cars and motorcycles. The lack of police cars with radar is only part of the problem. In my opinion, the will to enforce the law is also lacking. (At this point, I was going to relate my personal experience.)
My wife and I were waiting to turn left from S. McPherson Church Road onto Raeford Road when a speeder ran through the red light just before I was about to turn.
I looked up and saw a police car sitting at the BP station facing the intersection. Both my wife and I said at the same time, "Look at that!". I made the turn, and my wife said, "You go over there to that policeman and ask him why he did not go after that car!"
I resisted, but she was insistent. So, I did.
I came up to his window, and he was very nice. He answered me, "I don't have radar."
He also said he was one of only two officers available for the entire area. This incident caused me to question the city's resolve to provide an adequate police force with proper equipment—end of story. My presentation continues.
South McPherson Church Road and the All-American Freeway serve these lawbreakers as their personal Indianapolis 500. Also, misfits draw doughnuts in intersections and parking lots, showing contempt for authorities and private property owners.
You should take it personally and direct more funds to the police force. Without safety and respect for the law, you cannot pursue other projects to improve the city—end of presentation.
The constant blaring of speeding, unmuffled cars, and motorcycles just got too much for me recently, which is why I called 911. This led me to the Community Safety Committee on where I received their meeting agenda and the minutes of their last meeting on March 6, 2024.
I then focused on one agenda item and two organizations I was not familiar with:
1. Driving Equality Laws Presentation Recap (agenda item)
2. Emancipate NC (organization)
3. Forward Justice (organization)
Upon reviewing the minutes, I noticed both Emancipate NC and Forward Justice made presentations to the committee, and received general approval with City Council Member Banks-McLaughlin saying there was "great dialogue between Fayetteville Police Chief Braden and Attorney Carpenter" of Forward Justice.
What is Emancipate NC, and who is Forward Justice? Emancipate NC has a website that states, "It is an organization founded on the knowledge that incarceration and structural racism is harmful.
It is an organization dedicated to shifting the narrative on racialized mass incarceration through community mobilization.” They maintain that the mainstream narrative that criminalizes Black and Brown people must be transformed.
The Forward Justice organization is a nonprofit center in Durham, NC, dedicated to advancing racial, social, and economic justice in the South. This group challenges laws, policies, and practices that harm the most vulnerable in society- the Black, Brown, and poor populations, keeping them from full liberation.
You should Google these groups for yourself. They are anti-capitalist (Marxist), anti-police, and anti-law and order. They promote the ideas of systemic governmental racism and racial injustice.
So, why do these organizations have the ear and endorsement of our city council without public knowledge?
Does not the law read the same no matter what race you are? Is there a need for any organization to cheer on one race over another? Justice must be blind no matter what your situation is.
I went to the April 3rd meeting to complain and voice my concerns about noisy, speeding, and contemptible behavior on the roadways. I came away more troubled over what appears to be a bigger problem.
Craig Stewart
Fayetteville, NC 28314

Earth Day will get its own special event this year in Fayetteville, thanks to Sustainable Sandhills. For the first time in Fayetteville’s history, there will be a gathering to celebrate planet Earth and education on resource conservation and sustainable energy.
While Earth Day is officially April 22, the city will celebrate a bit early on April 20th, at Festival Park from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The day will be packed full of events starting with the 5k and 10k races. Races are open to everyone, including families.
Not a runner? Then walk the race. This is meant to be a community event that everyone can participate in. Runners and walkers can register online on the Sustainable Sandhills website, sustainablesandhills.org. If running is just not a tempting activity, don’t worry, there will be a plethora of other choices for all members of the family.
Along with the races, there will be a cornhole tournament. Participants can register for this activity onsite. The event will also include games, environmental education, and an electric car show. Have an electric vehicle? Want to show it off and promote gasless driving? Register for the electric car show on the website. 910 Telsa Car Club is already set to show off its electric cars.
Fascinate- U Children's Museum Super Science Fun Fest will be taking place at the celebration. They will have STEM activities for kids. Around 60 vendors and community partners are in attendance, creating a one-of-a-kind marketplace full of sustainable businesses, like Sandhills Mushrooms. The fun will be fueled by a DJ and food trucks including Gaston Brewing Food Truck. Adult beverages, including non-alcoholic drinks, are provided by Wana Nauva Kava Bar. Co-op Extension Master Gardeners will also be holding a plant sale for those looking for new additions to their garden.
Trinity Vetere, Special Events and Website Manager Volunteer & Air Quality and Waste Management Coordinator was the “get it done girl” who helped bring this inaugural event to Fayetteville.
“Last year, during Earth Day…our staff of four, was in four different locations because there were four different events going on. Each of them wanted a piece of Sustainable Sandhills because we are the region's local environmental nonprofit. So wonderful. Awesome. Have us there. Have us involved, we love it. But after we got together, it was rather exhausting. So, we were talking about how exhausting it was and what we were going to do to fix it and my Executive Director and I looked at each and said why don’t we just bring everybody together for Earth Day. Like everybody who summoned us, put them in one spot and they can have us…. That's what we decided to do, and we thought where’s the best place to have it? Of course, Festival Park, everybody wants to be at Festival Park,” Vetere said of how the idea to have the first unified Earth Day celebration came about.
Fayetteville Beautiful will simultaneously run a Community-Wide Cleanup Event. Those who wish to participate can do so on the website. Supplies will be distributed to those who register. Attendees are encouraged to bring their old electronics and lithium batteries for safe disposal. Drop-off for these items will be in the Crest Fund Parking lot with the Cumberland County Landfill. This year’s inaugural event is sponsored by Fleet Feet Fayetteville, Gaston Brewing Company, Red, White, Bubbly & Brew, Cumulus Media, Lee Hyundai, Genesis of Fayetteville, and Allegra Marketing, Print, Mail.
Sustainable Sandhills is the Sandhills ecological nonprofit. Their mission is to preserve equity for current and future generations. They raise awareness, conduct outreach, and educate the community about what their options are and what their reality is. Sustainable Sandhills has 8 major impact areas, their most active being air quality, water quality, climate resilience, and public health.
They are always looking for volunteers. Those interested can check out the website. Earth Day was first observed on April 22, 1970, as a show of support for environmental protection. A day celebrated all over the United States in most major cities, Earth Day focuses on bringing public attention to current environmental concerns, intending to preserve the Earth for future generations. Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin and Activist Denis Hayes were created to spearhead the movement that ignited the first Earth Day.
Preserving our natural resources has never been more important. Earth Day is one day, but the community should be looking to make small changes in everyday life to contribute to the work of preservation. As Vetere says, “Every day is Earth Day at Sustainable Sandhills.”

Earth Day is an annual holiday that has been celebrated since 1970. Despite somewhat humble beginnings, much of the globe now celebrates Earth Day, which this year takes place on Monday, April 22.
Earth Day has long drawn attention to issues affecting the planet and its climate. The effects of those issues have grown increasingly noticeable in recent years, which makes this Earth Day and all subsequent celebrations an ideal opportunity to celebrate the planet while learning about the many challenges it faces in the years to come. The following are unique, fun and educational ways to celebrate the planet this April.
Leave the car at home. Winter weather is a distant memory by late April in many places, making Earth Day an ideal time to travel by foot or by bicycle instead of by car. That is not only fun, but also a great opportunity to learn about carbon emissions.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency reports that a typical passenger vehicle emits about 4.6 metric tons of carbon dioxide each year. Vehicles also emit a substantial amount of methane and nitrous oxide. This is why gas-powered vehicles are so often linked to climate change, much of which is driven by greenhouse gas emissions.
A car-free Earth Day can be fun and serve as a catalyst for conversation about the effects of gas-powered vehicles on the health of the planet.
Volunteer with a local environmental organization. Environmental organizations are committed to the ideals behind Earth Day all year long. However, each Earth Day many of these organizations sponsor eco-conscious efforts to help the planet and raise awareness about issues like climate change.
Volunteering with a local beach or park cleanup or signing up to walk and raise money for a local environmental charity makes for a fun and educational way to spend your Earth Day.
Get your hands dirty and plant. The National Forest Foundation notes that planting trees can have a profound and positive impact on the planet.
According to the NFF, planting more trees helps forests sequester carbon, which can have a significant effect on climate change.
The NFF estimates that 100 mature trees can remove 50 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent and 430 pounds of pollution from the atmosphere. Even if you can't work with a local forestry organization to plant more trees in a nearby forest, planting native trees on your own property can help combat climate change.
Involve children in your efforts to combat climate change. Today's adults likely won't be the ones forced to confront the more challenging consequences of climate change.
Unfortunately, that cost is likely to be passed on to future generations. That makes this Earth Day a great time to involve kids more directly in efforts to combat climate change. Explain the significance of avoiding the car, volunteering or planting trees in terms that kids can understand, emphasizing that the planet's future could very well be in their hands.
Earth Day takes on greater significance each year as the effects of climate change become more noticeable.
This year, the holiday can be celebrated in various ways that are both enjoyable and educational.

In many ways, data is changing the face of the world. The constant collection of data helps to improve the quality of life. Businesses thrive on data to help improve processes, save money, and maximize profits. Decision-makers rely heavily on data to help make key decisions on business practices and processes. Data helps find solutions to problems by effectively determining the cause and developing fact-based solutions that are as close to predicting the future as humanly possible. Data helps businesses and organizations be extremely strategic in their approaches. The world runs on data, so it’s vital that data is managed properly, kept secure, and accessible in a timely manner. In today’s world, that means immediately.
The Information Technology curriculum at Fayetteville Technical Community College prepares graduates for employment in the technology sector as designers, testers, support technicians, system administrators, developers, or programmers who use computer software and/or hardware to design, process, implement, and manage information systems.
Course work includes the development of a student’s ability to understand the role of databases and database management systems within the field of Information Technology, to demonstrate knowledge of SQL data definition and SQL, to develop queries to extract information from large databases, and to implement a database solution in the area of Information Technology.
A career in database management can be very financially rewarding. Database architects currently earn a median salary of $113,000 a year.
FTCC Student Tiffany Brown shared her thoughts about the program: “In my experience, the Database Management program at FTCC is exceptional. Throughout my matriculation, the courses provided me an opportunity to build a strong foundation in Information Technology and Database Programming which helped me feel confident that I will be able to excel in the field of Technology. More importantly, our Dean, Tomica Sobers, was very knowledgeable on the subject matter and always willing to go the extra mile to assist me with any questions or hurdles I encountered during and after my completion of the program. As an individual with minimal prior knowledge in this discipline, her advice and constant words of encouragement helped me maintain a positive attitude when facing new challenges.”
FTCC Student Bryan Campbell plans to pursue a career in database management: “With help from my favorite advisor, Ms. Sobers, I completed the database program at FTCC, and I wish to pursue a career in database management; with the knowledge that I have gained, I continue to excel in my current program of study at UNC-G.”
Are you ready to learn more? FTCC offers a broad range of specialty areas in the field of Information Technology. Contact FTCC today to begin your career in database management or explore the many available pathways to success.
Find the office of Advanced Technology Center in Room 154-D, 2300 Hull Rd., open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or call 910-678-7365. Tomica Sobers, department chair, can also be reached at sobersto@faytechcc.edu.