The Brazilian political biographical drama I’m Still Here (Portuguese: Ainda Estou Aqui), directed by Walter Salles, is set to premiere at the Cameo Art House Theatre on Feb. 7. This 2024 release has already garnered international acclaim, including a Golden Globe win for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Drama for Fernanda Torres and a nomination for Best Foreign Language Film.
Based on Marcelo Rubens Paiva’s 2015 memoir, the film chronicles the life of his mother Eunice Paiva. With a screenplay by Murilo Hauser and Heitor Lorega, I’m Still Here brings an intimate and harrowing chapter of Brazilian history to the screen, resonating with audiences worldwide.
A Story of Courage and Loss
In 1970, former congressman Rubens Paiva returns to Rio de Janeiro after six years of self-exile following the revocation of his tenure during the 1964 Brazilian coup d’état. Settling into an idyllic home near Leblon Beach with his wife Eunice (played by Torres and Fernanda Montenegro) and their five children, Paiva resumes his civil career while quietly supporting expatriates.
Amidst rising political tensions sparked by the kidnapping of the Swiss ambassador by far-left revolutionary movements, Paiva’s home is raided by the military in January 1971. He is arrested and subsequently disappears. Eunice, refusing to stay silent, publicly demands answers, leading to her own arrest and 12 days of torture. Their teenage daughter, Eliana, is also imprisoned, though she is released after 24 hours. The family’s persistence in seeking justice ignites moderate media outrage, but Eunice presses on.
A Critical and Commercial Success
Since its premiere at the 81st Venice International Film Festival, where it won Best Screenplay, I’m Still Here has achieved remarkable success, grossing $11.3 million on a $1.5 million budget. It has been recognized among the National Board of Review’s Top 5 International Films of 2024 and has advanced to the December shortlist for the 97th Academy Awards’ Best International Feature Film.
Despite facing an attempted boycott by Brazil’s far-right, the film has resonated deeply with
audiences, further cementing its place in modern cinema.
Brazil’s Alarming Pattern of Police Violence
The issues explored in I’m Still Here remain disturbingly relevant today. Alarmingly, individuals of African descent are three times more likely to become victims of this violence than their white counterparts. The UN has noted that these acts of brutality are not isolated incidents but form an “alarming pattern” that has deeply eroded public trust in law enforcement, especially among marginalized communities. Most homes have high walls with barbed wire or glass on tops and eclectic fences; all added in the time of military dictatorship.
This erosion of trust was echoed by a personal experience I had during one of my many visits to Brazil. I’ve been there over a dozen times and witnessed firsthand the fear that permeates interactions with police. Unlike in the U.S., Brazilian police are heavily militarized, routinely carrying large firearms and traveling in groups of three or four. I once saw a routine traffic stop for speeding in which all four officers approached the driver with their guns drawn as usual protocol.
A Brazilian friend of mine recently lost his uncle to police violence in December. Homeless and struggling with addiction, his uncle’s death remains shrouded in unclear circumstances. He was Afro-Brazilian. Such incidents highlight the immunity that Brazilian police enjoy, as they are rarely, if ever, held accountable for their actions.
Why I’m Still Here Matters
This film is not only a powerful tribute to those who fought for justice during Brazil’s darkest years but also a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked government power. As Brazil faces increasing political instability and growing concerns over authoritarianism, I’m Still Here is a chillingly relevant reflection of how history can repeat itself.
According to the United Nations, since 2019, Brazil has seen a rise in aggressive and militarized policing, particularly under far-right leadership. In Rio de Janeiro alone, police killed 1,810 people that year — an average of five deaths per day. The Brazilian police kill an average of 17 people per day.
“In 2024, the Military Police in Brazil killed 6,296 people, equivalent to eight times the rate of people killed by police in the United States. The overwhelming majority of these victims are Black, poor, young, male, non-educated, and living in urban peripheries," reports North American Congress on Latin America.
Why is a movie that takes place in the ‘70s so relevant and still so urgent in 2024? Isn't this movie about a distant past, that of a former military regime that a democratic regime has replaced? On paper, yes, however… The military police in Brazil and its actions show us a brutal reality — Brazil has not overcome its dictatorial past since the current police force is a kind of an abomination in the current democratic world. Even though Brazil has a civil police force, the military police do the vast majority of police operations on the streets and among the civilians.
The militaries are still dangerously present amongst the civilian Brazilian population, constantly acting aggressively and lethally in the country, under the warfare mentality of the military period — which is not a practice in the vast majority of countries worldwide.
CNN Brasil featured, the very month the movie came out, the military police videotaped, throwing a man off a bridge. Police said it was an exception because the police officer was “mentally unstable at the time”.
Brazil’s Heart and Spirit
Despite rising violence towards certain groups in Brazil, the country is still a land of breathtaking beauty, vibrant culture, and deeply rooted values. Its people are known for their warmth, love of life, and the importance they place on family. From the rich flavors of feijoada and pão de queijo to the rhythmic beats of samba and the stunning landscapes of the Amazon rainforest, Brazil is a country that celebrates resilience and connection.
Don’t Miss I’m Still Here
Tickets for I’m Still Here are now available at the Cameo Art House Theatre. The film begins its run on February 7th and offers a rare opportunity to experience a globally acclaimed masterpiece that shines a light on Brazil’s fight for justice and human rights.

(Photo courtesy of Cameo Art House Theatre)

Who is the most famous North Carolinian today?
If you check the latest edition of the World Almanac as I do this time every year, you will find a list of “Famous North Carolinians.”
That list includes the following people, but not today’s most famous person from our state.
Read over the names on the World Almanac list and then I will tell you today’s most famous person: David Brinkley, Shirley Caesar, John Coltrane, Stephen Curry, Rick Dees, Elizabeth Hanford Dole, Dale Earnhardt Sr., John Edwards, Ava Gardner, Richard Jordan Gatling, Billy Graham, Andy Griffith, O. Henry, Andrew Jackson, Andrew Johnson, Michael Jordan, William Rufus King, Charles Kuralt, Meadowlark Lemon, Dolley Madison, Thelonious Monk, Edward R. Murrow, Richard Petty, James K. Polk, Charlie Rose, Carl Sandburg, Enos Slaughter, Dean Smith, James Taylor, Thomas Wolfe.
But that list does not include the North Carolinian most talked about across the world recently: a man who grew up in the Tally Ho community of Granville County.
On Christmas Day 2021 a $10 billion giant telescope to replace the aging Hubble scope was launched from French Guiana.
The launch was successful, and the device has unfolded its antenna, mirror, and tennis-court-sized sunshield, as it moved toward a final orbit.
The Hubble, at work for more than 30 years, was named for Edwin Powell Hubble, an American astronomer who died in 1953. He was an important astronomer whose work provided evidence that the universe is expanding.
The new observatory-telescope is about 100 times more sensitive than the Hubble. As described by Dennis Overbye in the Oct. 20, 2021, edition of The New York Times, “Orbiting the sun a million miles from Earth, it will be capable of bringing into focus the earliest stars and galaxies in the universe and closely inspecting the atmospheres of nearby exoplanets for signs of life or habitability.”
So, what does all this have to do with Granville County and the most talked-about North Carolinian?
The new telescope is named the James Webb Space Telescope. Like the Hubble, the James Webb Space Telescope, or JWST, or Webb Telescope, or simply the Webb, will be in almost every news story about space exploration for many years. Every young person studying astronomy or reading about space will see his name. It will be everywhere.
Why is this critical device named for Webb?
Lewis Bowling, who, like Webb grew up working in the tobacco fields and barns of Granville County, explained in his column in the December 30, 2021, edition of the Oxford Public Ledger, Granville County’s twice-weekly newspaper.
“James Webb, who grew up in the sticks like me, surrounded by great big fields of tobacco was the man most responsible for leading us to the moon.
"Let me clarify something: James Webb was born in Tally Ho near Stem, so he was a country boy like me, but obviously a lot smarter. Webb knew and worked for several presidents and was the National Aeronautics and Space Administration director under Presidents Kennedy and Johnson. As former North Carolina Congressman L. H. Fountain once said, ‘for the first time since the beginning of the world there are now footprints on the moon, and the major share of credit goes to a distinguished son of Granville County, James E. Webb.’”
I wrote that I would bet that there will be a new entry in the latest World Almanac’s list of “Famous North Carolinians.”
I believed the new entry would be James Webb from Tally Ho.
But Webb has still not yet made the World Almanac’s list.
I will be looking for Webb’s name when the 2026 World Almanac comes out next fall hoping that its editors do not again forget to add James Webb to their list.

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

(This artist's rendition of the James Webb Space Telescope shows the telescope after being launched into space in 2022. The telescope has since transmitted images of multiple galaxies and star systems. Image courtesy of NASA-GSFC, Adriana M. Gutierrez,CI Lab, James Webb Space Telescope website)

Winter white, elegance, and lunch with a purpose are the perfect way to spend a Saturday. The Fayetteville, NC Chapter of the Links Friendship Luncheon is the opportunity to do all three. Marking the 26th year of the annual event, this year is set to be the personification of sophistication. This year’s luncheon is Saturday, Feb. 1st from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Shabaine Farms and Event Center, 469 Posey Farm Rd, Raeford.
Attendees will immerse themselves in the ambiance of Shabaine Farms, from the marble flooring to the grand staircase. A perfect backdrop to this year’s luncheon theme, “Growing Our Legacy.” Setting the mood and tantalizing the eardrum, will be the always entertaining Book Black Women. Those in attendance will have the opportunity to participate in a raffle, featuring one-of-a-kind, must-have prizes. The Friendship Luncheon is one of the biggest events bringing awareness to heart health. It also serves a larger purpose. The Friendship Luncheon is an opportunity to bring professional Black women together for a powerful and meaningful event, that will expand their network through connection and friendship. It's an opportunity for women to dress to impress and learn more about what the Fayetteville, NC Chapter of the Links is about, and their impact on the community.
“This signature event not only strengthens bonds of friendship but also raises awareness of heart health within our community,” member DeSandra Washington said. Tickets to the luncheon can be purchased through a member of the Fayetteville chapter.
The Links, Incorporated is a volunteer service nonprofit organization for professional Black (of African descent) women. Under the dictum, “Linked in Friendship, Connected in Service,” the Fayetteville chapter was founded on February 11, 1951, by founding members Elizabeth Cameron, Ebbie Dorsay, Inez Ealey, Candice Johnson, Evelyn Groves, Juanita Lewis, Hilda Porter, Geneva Robinson, Beulah Quick, and Jessye Vick and was the 32nd incorporated national chapter.
As an organization founded for Black women, during a time when the rights of Black Americans were limited, The Links, Inc's importance in the communities that started chapters has always been vital. It has filled resource gaps and provided opportunities to youth. The organization has grown substantially since its inception in 1946, from national to international. The Fayetteville Chapter is currently one of 299 chapters in 41 states across the United States, Bahamas, and the United Kingdom. The Links, Incorporated was founded on the premise of being an organization “...committed to enriching, sustaining and ensuring the culture and economic survival of African Americans and other persons of African ancestry. Our core values are friendship, integrity, honesty, service, commitment, family relationships, courage, respect for self and others, legacy, confidentiality, responsibility, and accountability.”
The chapter focuses on three areas of service: The Arts, Service to Youth, and National Trends and Services with a focus on health. Their signature green and white colors can be found at any event they are supporting or hosting, with smiles on their faces. To learn more about the Fayetteville Chapter of NC Links visit the website at https://www.fayettevillenclinks.org/.

(The Fayetteville, NC Chapter of the Links will gather together for their 26th annual Friendship Luncheon. Photo courtesy of Fayetteville, NC Chapter of the Links Facebook page)

Lunar New Year, also known as the 'Spring Festival,' is the most important traditional festival in China. The celebration marks the turn of the traditional lunisolar Chinese calendar, combining elements from both the Gregorian and lunar-solar systems.
The festival has a history spanning thousands of years, rich with myths and legends. One popular story involves the mythical beast Nian, who would terrorize villages until he was scared away by loud noises, bright lights, and the color red—practices still prevalent in today's celebrations.
The Year of the Snake is one of the twelve zodiac cycles in the Chinese calendar, embodying traits such as wisdom, intuition, and elegance. Those born under this sign are often seen as intelligent and enigmatic, possessing a magnetic charm that draws people in.
In 2025, the Year of the Snake begins on Jan. 29. This period is anticipated to bring transformation and new opportunities, making it a significant time for reflection and growth. Understanding these cultural nuances can help brands align their messaging with the hopes and aspirations of consumers during this auspicious period.
Lunar New Year is celebrated with a variety of vibrant traditions and customs. These include family reunions, festive meals, and the giving of red envelopes filled with money, which symbolize good luck and prosperity. Additionally, lion dances, fireworks, and the decoration of homes with red lanterns and couplets are common practices.
Preparations for the Lunar New Year begin well in advance, with families cleaning their homes to sweep away bad luck and make room for good fortune. This practice is known as 'sweeping the dust.'
Homes are decorated with red lanterns, couplets, and paper cutouts symbolizing prosperity, happiness, and longevity. The color red is predominant as it is believed to ward off evil spirits and bad fortune.
Food plays a central role in the celebrations, with dishes like dumplings, rice cakes, and fish symbolizing wealth, unity, and abundance. These age-old traditions not only foster a sense of community but also serve to honor ancestors and
welcome new beginnings.
Other traditional foods include Niangao (glutinous rice cake) for higher income or position, and Tangyuan (sweet rice balls) which signify family unity and togetherness.
Numerous customs and activities are observed during the Lunar New Year. Lion and dragon dances are performed to scare away evil spirits and bring good luck. These lively performances are accompanied by the sound of drums, gongs, and cymbals.
While many traditional practices remain, the Lunar New Year has also evolved with modern times. In urban areas, it's common to see grand fireworks displays and large-scale public events.
The festival has a global impact, with celebrations taking place in Chinatowns and Asian communities worldwide. This cultural diffusion helps to spread the rich traditions of the Lunar New Year, making it a truly global celebration.

Hold your breath.
Make a wish.
Count to three.
Enter into a world of pure imagination.
This is the world that the folks at Cape Fear Regional Theatre create — one that will bring imagination and magic onto the stage with a little boy, his grandpa Joe and the chocolate factory. And of course, it must include the zany, possibly half-insane, chocolate maker with his iconic blonde curls and candy inventions that only exist in kids’ wildest dreams.
In just a couple of weeks, Charlie & The Chocolate Factory will hit the stage at Cape Fear Regional Theatre. This production, like some of the others done by Cape Fear Regional Theatre with many children in the show, will include two casts of child actors — an Oompa and a Loompa cast. This means that the show officially has two Charlie Buckets — Cameron Lewis and Noé Cangas.
The boys jump on a quick video call to discuss their character — a quick step out in the middle of their studies to discuss their passion.
“I used to read the book all the time,” Cangas says smiling.
For Cangas, this role has quickly become one of his favorites. Charlie is a kid, he says, who keeps things light despite having a relatively sad life. Lewis shares this love and take on Charlie.
“I’m so excited. It’s the first Broadway show I ever saw,” Lewis says. “... Charlie is a difficult character. He's very hard to play."
The two boys are traveling more than an hour to rehearsal after school and will alternate nights to play their roles. They both said they find that time is helpful in getting homework done. They also find the time in between scenes during rehearsal. While the kids alternate for the shows, the adult actors in the show will remain the same throughout the entire run of the production. Working with them, Lewis says, is one of the best parts of playing in a production like this.
“It’s so fun doing scenes with them,” he says. “They are professional, and they’ve been doing so much stuff.”
For Lewis, this includes Joshua Morgan, who plays Willy Wonka and who is also a dead ringer for the blonde, curly-haired, zany Wonka that Gene Wilder brought to life on the big screen. When he took the role, Morgan said he started by asking himself, “Who is Wonka?”
“It’s Wonka, right?” he said. “It has its own cultural and creative backing.”
Morgan and Marc De La Concha, the show's director and Education Director at Cape Fear Regional Theatre, had many conversations about the characterization of the iconic character. Morgan said they talked about what defines Wonka.
“We were most attracted by what Gene Wilder did,” he said.
When asked about how the scenes are going and how that character has developed in the rehearsals so far, Morgan, in a true Wonka-like voice and energy, laughs.
“It’s still the beginning!”
De La Concha, a bright personality unto himself, smiles at this and nods. He says there’s so much learning along the way for him and the cast and their new space.
“It’s about bringing the magic into that space,” De La Concha says. “We also have a really good company of actors that make that magic.”
Among those actors is Steve McCoy, who plays the lovable Grandpa Joe. Even outside of his wardrobe and rehearsals, McCoy wears a large smile across his face. He has a bright energy about him.
“I love this guy,” he exclaims. “I know him so well.”
And that he does. He portrayed Grandpa Joe for three years on a traveling production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Like the character he is playing, McCoy seems to always have a positive spin on things.
“The play is about imagination and integrity and honesty and just being a really good person,” he says. “If you are a good person with integrity, something wonderful is going to happen to you.”
McCoy says he loves performing with the child actors in this production. The two Charlie Buckets, he says, bring “an incredible aspect” to their characters. And as far as his character goes, McCoy says, he just has to think and embody his own father.
“He reminds me of my dad now,” McCoy laughs. “The way he speaks — gruff and off the cuff but ends it with a really nice thing.”
Using his imagination for the character doesn’t hurt either, he admits. Although the book is catering to children’s imaginations, the show, McCoy says, is for ages 9 to 99.
“Everyone finds something they love about it,” Ashley Owen, Marketing Director for Cape Fear Regional Theatre, agrees.
The production will include around 24 songs in total including all of those from the Gene Wilder version of the movie as well as others. Each character will have a song to tell the audience who they are before they get to the factory. There are 31 actors in total in the show including each youth cast which has seven kids each.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory will run from Jan. 30 to Feb. 23 at Cape Fear Regional Theatre’s temporary space at 1707 Owen Drive. Tickets will range from $19 to $37 to include some “bedtime friendly” shows, a military appreciation night and teacher appreciation night. For more information visit www.cfrt.org.

(Photo: Cameron Lewis, left, and Noé Cangas play Charlie Bucket, the main character in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. The kids rotate shows throughout the run of the production. Photo courtesy of Cape Fear Regional Theatre)

The community is rallying in preparation for extensive celebrations surrounding the Bicentennial anniversary of Revolutionary War General, Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette’s farewell tour of America. Lafayette’s original tour spanned 1824-1825 and took him through various cities in 24 states, including Fayetteville. A series of celebrations held on March 4 and 5, as well as preceding events, will give community members the chance to follow in Lafayette’s footsteps.
In February of 2022, under the direction of Hank Parfitt who serves as Chair, a planning committee was formed to plan the Bicentennial Celebration. Parfitt said much of the first year was spent team-building, inviting community members to participate, and building a framework for upcoming events. They’re basing the reenactment of events off a contemporaneous report of Lafayette’s visit to Fayetteville published in the Carolina Observer, now the Fayetteville Observer, that described Lafayette’s time in the city.
Currently, Parfitt says there are nearly 20 organizations involved in the committee, including individuals from the city and county government, local art museums, and historical organizations. “It represents a wide cross-section of the city,” Parfitt explained.
He said the committee also spent time making sure that the celebration was beneficial for all the organizations involved and aligned with their particular vision.
“As you can imagine, there's a lot of work in that,” he shared.
As a Frenchman who fought in an American uniform, Lafayette was the last surviving American Major General of the Revolutionary War. Fayetteville was the only namesake city he visited during his final tour. Parfitt noted that the tour took place during a time of deep division.
“The nation was deeply divided over the economy, over the issue of slavery, and there were political problems with the election of 1824.”
Yet, Lafayette was universally admired despite the vitriol, and it’s estimated that 6 million of the then 9.5 million American population saw Lafayette during his tour.
According to Parfitt, Lafayette was grieved that the country he helped found on the basis of equality and freedom was enslaving a large percentage of its inhabitants. He became a great supporter of emancipation.
“He was a shining light of liberty and national self-determination,” Parfitt explained.
The upcoming Fayetteville celebrations organized by the Lafayette Society are part of “Lafayette 200,” a 13-month long, 24-state-wide Bicentennial celebration organized by The American Friends of Lafayette. According to their website, the AFL is a historical and patriotic society dedicated to the memory of Lafayette and to the study of his life and times in America and France.
Together with the American Friends of Lafayette, Fayetteville is one of many principal cities Lafayette visited that are taking the opportunity to host a celebration.
“It is a celebration of our community's history and serves as a reminder of the ideals that Lafayette stood for, which are still so relevant today, such as justice and freedom,” said Anna Meyer, Executive Director of the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra.
Meyer is one of several sub-committee chairs helping coordinate upcoming events as part of the planning committee. She is focusing on marketing the events and coordinating a dinner-theater performance. She described an abundance of community collaborations behind-the-scenes working to bring the events together.
“The celebration is truly community-centric, and many people have stepped up to make it possible.”
Parfitt shared that organizations and institutions involved in the planning committee include the Lafayette Society, Fayetteville Museum of History, Museum of the Cape Fear, The Arts Council, Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra, The Gilbert Theater, Cumberland County Library, Distinctly Fayetteville (Convention and Visitors Bureau), Sons of the American Revolution - Marquis de Lafayette Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution - Liberty Point and Col. Robert Rowan Chapters, Colonial Dames, The Fayetteville Independent Light Infantry, Fayetteville State University, Fayetteville Technical Community College, Methodist University, Cumberland County, City of Fayetteville and Cumberland County Schools.
They’re working together to coordinate a series of ticketed and free events including Regency-era dance workshops by Charles Steplively (Jeremy Gershman), a Lafayette Lecture by Dr. Lloyd Kramer, and eventually the two-day celebration on March 4 and 5 which will include the following events: Mini Tours of the Fayetteville Independent Light Infantry Armory and Carriage, Lafayette’s Procession and Welcome, Explore Lafayette’s Legacy in Fayetteville, Farewell Tour Ball, and Farewell Tour Dinner with live music and theater-in-the-round.
Parfitt said that the committee members are outstanding, with groups such as the Colonial Dames handling the Farewell Tour Dinner and the Daughters of the American Revolution handling the Farewell Tour Ball.
“Each individual event now has a strong co-chair in charge who shares the vision and has the determination to accomplish the mission,” he said.
Meyer encouraged community members to join in the festivities and said she thought it would be a “memorable celebration.”
Parfitt lauded the committee and anticipated the same.
“They’re doing a really fantastic job to make sure this is an event that our city can be proud of.” Learn more at lafayettesociety.org

(Photo: The Fayetteville Independent LIght Infantry will be part of the celebrations for the Bicentennial of the Marquis de Lafayette's return to Fayetteville. Photo courtesy of the Lafayette Society)

On Feb. 15 at the Crown Expo Center, The Partnership for Children of Cumberland County will host Little Land: Big Play for Families. The event is free and open to families of all ages. It begins at 10 a.m. and the first 300 kids through the door will receive a free superhero cape. Little Land is a chance for families to have an opportunity for the kids to be kids, while the parents learn about resources and services available in our community. The target audience is families with kids under 5 years old, but kids of all ages are welcome to come and play.
What is Little Land?
In March of 2020, the Partnership for Children set out to create an event for families to play and learn; to connect with resources in the local community, as well as allow kids to be kids. To that end, they hosted the first Little Land event. On that Saturday, over 1100 people came to the Crown Expo Center to play. Shortly after that, the world shut down due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Therefore, a repeat event was not feasible until 2023. In spring of that year, more than 1100 kids and their adults came out to play. In 2024, the number topped 1500. Not only was the turn-out great, but the response indicated a resounding success as well: 93% of those surveyed said they would come again.
What to expect?
When families arrive at this year’s Little Land, they will be able to walk a red carpet, and the first 300 kids will receive a free superhero cape. Once inside, let the play commence! Kids can play at Jumbo Land, an inflatable obstacle course; there will even be tot-sized Jumbo Land for the smaller tots. There will be Safety Land, where kids can meet real-life police officers and firefighters while their parents have the chance to learn about car seat installation, bike helmets, and other safety concerns; they will even be conducting car seat checks to ensure proper installation.
There will be booths for various agencies, services, and resources so families know what is available to them in the community. Most booths will have free, hands-on activities for kids and families. The Fayetteville Pickleball Club will have a court for people to play and learn about the game of pickleball.
New this year is Sensory Land: a separate space, sponsored by Caring Hearts Behavioral Services. This will be a quieter place for kids with sensory sensitivities, or anyone who just needs a little break from the noise and activity of the main play area. There will be hands-on activities, story time with the Cumberland County Library, and other sensory-friendly recreation.
Also new this year is the NC Zoo. Representatives from the zoo will be on hand with information about the zoo and to answer questions about animals. There may even be an animal ambassador from the zoo at the event.
There may be some cost associated with certain activities, and there will be food for sale, but most will be free for all those attending. According to Sharon Moyer, Community Engagement Administrator, it will be feasible for families to attend the event, participate fully, and leave without having spent any money.
What is CCPFC?
Cumberland County’s Partnership for Children is an agency that serves families with children from birth until 5 years old.
“Our priorities are to provide services and supports that Advance the Well‑being of Children, Strengthen the Early Care Early Education System, and Empower Families.” (from https://ccpfc.org/about-pfc/) The services they provide and resources they connect to are abundant and focus primarily on child and parent wellness, safety, and Kindergarten readiness. Just some of the organizations they partner with include: Dolly Parton’s Imagination library; which provides registered children with one free book per month from birth until they turn 5; Fayetteville Technical Community College and their Parents for Higher Ed program-which helps parents overcome barriers to achieving a college degree; and Head Start-a program in North Carolina which provides free pre-K schooling to eligible children. The organization can connect parents with services ranging from postpartum mental health and nursing support to car seat safety, to finding childcare.
Moyer said, “If we don’t offer the service, we can help connect you with someone who does.”
As the old saying goes: it takes a village to raise a child; the CCPFC can help you find the members of your village.
The Little Land: Big Play for Families event is an opportunity for kids to have fun, play, learn, and just be kids, while their parents play with them but also learn about important, helpful resources they may not otherwise be aware of. While admission and most activities are free of charge for all attendees, there will be opportunities to donate to the organization; all money raised at the event will directly support the services of CCPFC.
Would you like to help make Little Land 2025 a success? CCPFC is still looking for volunteers. Reach out to 910-867-9700 for more information and to volunteer at the event.

Charles Anthony Pittman, one of the two men who pleaded guilty to setting fire to Fayetteville’s Market House during a protest in May 2020, lost his appeal of his conviction.
The Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals issued a ruling on Monday that the case against him stands.
Pittman, 37, was released from federal prison in March of last year, the Bureau of Prisons website says. Co-defendant Andrew Salvarani Garcia-Smith, 36, was released in November 2022.
Protest turned into looting
Pittman and Garcia-Smith set fire to the Market House on May 30, 2020, a Saturday, amid a George Floyd protest against police violence that escalated into instances of vandalism downtown, then widespread looting across the city.
Floyd, originally from Fayetteville, had been killed five days prior in Minneapolis, Minnesota, by a police officer who kneeled on Floyd’s neck while pinning him to the ground and kept kneeling on Floyd’s neck after Floyd fell unconscious. The officer was later convicted of murder.
The Market House, which is city property, has been a center of controversy for decades. According to historians, it was built in the 1830s as a place for the general sales of goods. It was also a site where enslaved people were sold before the Civil War, an aspect of its past that has led some people to call for its demolition.
“As recorded by several media outlets, Pittman carried a gasoline container to the second story of the Market House and waived [SIC] it to the crowd before pouring gasoline onto the floor inside. As the gasoline-soaked area caught ablaze, a City of Fayetteville employee saw Pittman run out of the building,” says a news release published in November 2020 by the United States Attorney Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina.
“Investigators discovered the identity of Garcia-Smith after a social media post went viral,” the news release says. “As reported by local and national media outlets, the video showed Garcia-Smith picking up a bottle filled with flammable liquids and throwing it into the Market House. The liquid spilled back onto Garcia-Smith, setting his clothes and hair on fire. Investigators found Garcia-Smith in a local burn center, where Garcia-Smith admitted to being the individual in the video.”
The fire produced smoke and flames, but the sprinkler system activated and put it out. Water poured from the building through the evening.
Later that night, people spread across Fayetteville and began looting. They broke into the J.C. Penney at Cross Creek Mall, a Walmart and other stores.
The Fayetteville Police Department had officers surrounding the downtown area and near the stores that were being looted. But the department initially held back on clearing the downtown streets or stopping the looters. Officers had seen firearms among people in the crowds, and the police chief was trying to prevent conflicts that could result in deaths, according to a report issued in February 2022 by the Police Executive Resource Forum.
In the end, no one was killed. Only two were hurt, and one of the two was Garcia-Smith with his self-inflicted injuries.
Guilty pleas, and appeal
Court records say Pittman pleaded guilty in 2020 to maliciously damaging by fire a building that is receiving federal financial assistance, aiding and abetting a federal crime, and inciting a riot. He was sentenced in July 2022 to five years in prison, three years of parole, and ordered to pay $55,524.84 in restitution.
Garcia-Smith pleaded guilty in 2020 to maliciously damaging by fire a building that is receiving federal financial assistance, aiding and abetting a federal crime. He was sentenced in June 2021 to 27 months in prison followed by three years of probation.
Pittman appealed his case, but only on the charges related to setting the fire, not the charge of inciting a riot.

Up & Coming Weekly Editor's note: This article has been trimmed for space. To read the full version, visit https://bit.ly/3DUN5w7

Cumberland County Department of Public Health and Fayetteville State University are partnering in a research project called Understanding the Role of Xylazine in the Opioid Crisis. According to the project description, xylazine is a non-opioid FDA-approved sedative for animals that is not approved for human use, but is increasingly found in illicit street drugs and may have devastating public health repercussions.
The DPH and FSU were awarded a $200,000 grant to fund the project.
“We want to clarify the role of xylazine in this huge, huge battle we’re fighting right now,” said Shanhong Luo, James B. Hunt Jr. Distinguished Professor of Psychology at Fayetteville State University, who is working as Principal Investigator on the project along with other co-PI’s and several students.
“It's very, very challenging for everybody in healthcare, public health, behavioral health, everyone across the board,” said Greg Berry Project Coordinator with both the Cumberland Fayetteville Opioid Response Team and the North Carolina Harm Reduction Coalition.
Berry and others began noticing patterns that fit xylazine use while working on harm reduction initiatives several years ago. They were seeing wounds not typical of drug use in persons who use drugs (PWUD) and were also reporting altered experiences such as strange tastes and loss of consciousness.
Berry said they reached out to UNC Street Drug Analysis lab in Chapel Hill to obtain test kits.
Those samples confirmed the presence of xylazine in the illicit opioid supply in Cumberland County. Since then, he and others have been working to educate and raise awareness among PWUDs and medical providers about the presence of xylazine in Cumberland County.
According to Luo, they sent out a small, initial survey last summer that confirmed the need for ongoing research and education.
“I’d say more than 50% of the survey-takers weren’t even aware of xylazine,” Luo explained, “I think the community can benefit from a lot more education about this new phenomenon.”
Berry said the medical community is often unaware of the issue and doesn’t screen for xylazine use, sometimes leading to misdiagnosis of the ulcer-like wounds many PWUDs are developing. He described the wounds as “soft tissue necrosis” adding that they don’t heal on their own and worsen over time — especially with continued use of substances containing xylazine. The wounds also present a high risk for secondary infection.
“We've seen people develop serious infections as a result of these wounds that have led to everything from amputations to death,” he said.
They’ve worked with the Southern Regional Area Health Education Center to provide some ongoing professional development and training for healthcare professions, but concluded, “We have not done enough.”
Berry said he’s concerned about the potential impact of xylazine in addiction treatment.
“This drug does have addiction potential, and so there could be complications that people are experiencing while trying to seek care for opioid use treatment.”
Because many PWUDs are unaware that the substances they are using are adulterated with xylazine, many are unaware that they may be withdrawing from xylazine as well as other substances.
Additionally, it’s unclear whether xylazine may play a role in overdose rates. Berry said that while Cumberland County’s overdose rates have been declining over the last 12 months, they’re still problematic.
“I don't want to take away from the tremendous progress that we've made as a community,” he shared. “Those numbers are coming down in a big way. However, even though they're coming down, we are still trending higher than the state average.”
While some research on xylazine is available, according to Berry it is still considered a novel drug, and the research is limited.
“Most of the information and the data that we have is more anecdotal, and there isn't a lot of empirical data, especially in human subjects.”
The project could begin to shed light on unanswered questions.
Luo explained that the project has two major components: survey studies and drug analysis, both of which could eventually help address treatment disparity. The surveys will primarily target PWUDs and health professionals.
According to information provided by Luo, the project will assess the following topics:
(1) Awareness of xylazine including its prevalence and impact on the local community.
(2) Knowledge of xylazine effects.
(3) PWUDs’ experience with using xylazine and health professionals’ experience with treating xylazine.
Some incentives for participation will be made available and PWUDs will be invited to donate drug samples to test for the presence of xylazine. The samples will be sent to the UNC Street Drug Analysis Lab and the results will be uploaded anonymously for donors to see. Survey responses will also remain anonymous.
Luo expressed that the university is enjoying working together with the local government and finds the partnership mutually beneficial.
“It's a very exciting collaboration.” She added that several graduate students are heavily involved in developing study materials and surveys, “They feel like they are learning a lot, not only just from a research perspective but also from the kind of community engagement perspective as well. So they're just very passionate about this project.”
Berry said that if you suspect you or someone you know has been using a substance that contains Xylazine, the C-FORT Recovery Resource Center located at 707 Executive Place Fayetteville can connect you with testing, harm reduction services, and treatment.
“There's help available,” he shared.
“The hope is that this research will make a real, tangible contribution to the knowledge base that we have right now,” Berry expressed. “This is not just local to our area.”

The state’s student information system, PowerSchool, informed the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction on Jan. 7 that hackers accessed teacher and student information.
While Cumberland County Schools switched to a different student information system this school year, the school system was told over the weekend that its legacy data still stored in PowerSchool was affected by the hack.
“The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction has committed to providing our school system with detailed information about the breach, including how many specific students and teachers were impacted and what data was compromised,” Lindsay Whitley, Cumberland County Schools associate superintendent of communications and community engagement, told CityView. “At this time, it’s our understanding that the types of information accessed include social security numbers, student ID numbers, email addresses, etc.”
CCS is working with PowerSchool to notify impacted individuals using the contact information already provided to the school system, including via phone, email and U.S. mail. If an individual is worried about missing a district call because they blocked the number, Whitley said they can call the ParentLink Hotline at 855-502-7867 and select “Option 2” to opt back in.
While PowerSchool might reach out, the company’s webpage about the hack states that the company “will never contact you by phone or email to request your personal or account information.”
The page also provides FAQs to answer parents, educators and school systems’ questions about the breach. The company has also published FAQs for staff and parents on PowerSchool Community, the company’s support portal.
“While this breach involved a system no longer used by CCS, we are taking the situation seriously and working closely with NCDPI as they collaborate with PowerSchool,” Whitley said.
While exactly which years of data were compromised has not yet been determined, this school year’s student and teacher information is safe since it’s held in a different system.
CCS was part of the first phase of the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction’s shift away from PowerSchool as the state’s student information system. Starting this school year, the county’s public schools stored demographic details, grades and other information in the North Carolina Student Information System (NCSIS), powered by software company Infinite Campus and not PowerSchool.
However, as was in the case for CCS, data from prior school years still stored in PowerSchool was up for grabs by the hacker, according to WRAL News reporting on the breach.
“It is important to note that neither Cumberland County Schools nor NCDPI could have prevented this incident, as we do not have administrative access to the system’s maintenance tunnel,” CSS’ press release on the hack stated.
According to WRAL News, PowerSchool determined the threat began on Dec. 19. The company realized it was being hacked on Dec. 28, 10 days before it alerted NCDPI about the incident.
The company’s FAQs about the breach on PowerSchool Community states PowerSchool paid a ransom to the hackers to ensure the data accessed was deleted, according to reporting from information security and technology news publication Bleeping Computer.
Even if data was accessed, a PowerSchool spokesperson told CityView that the California-based education cloud-based software company believes the data taken by the hackers was “deleted without any further replication or dissemination.”
In a report to the North Carolina Board of Education on Jan. 8, Vanessa Wrenn, chief information officer for the Department of Public Instruction, said PowerSchool is working with law enforcement to monitor the Internet and the dark web in case any information is published.
Additionally, PowerSchool worked with the Canadian cybersecurity advisory firm Cyber Steward to determine a data breach had occurred and the stolen data was destroyed. It also worked with CrowdStrike, a data protection company the state uses to secure its schools and infrastructure, to conduct a forensic analysis of the hack.
“I can confirm that PowerSchool has taken all appropriate steps to prevent the data involved from further unauthorized misuse and does not anticipate the data being shared or made public,” the PowerSchool spokesperson said.
For those affected, the PowerSchool spokesperson told CityView that the company is “committed to providing affected customers, families, and educators with the resources and support they may need as we work through this together.”
Whitley said more specifics on what protection measures the company will offer to the district’s impacted individuals are coming. The company’s webpage states it will provide more information about credit monitoring and identity protection services as it becomes once available.
“As we learn more from NCDPI, we will continue to take the appropriate next steps,” Whitley said. “We appreciate everyone’s patience as we address this matter.”

Commissioner Glenn Adams Appointed to North Carolina Central University Law School Commission
Cumberland County Commissioner Glenn B. Adams, Sr. has been appointed to a prestigious 13-member commission tasked with shaping the future of the North Carolina Central University (NCCU) School of Law. The commission, announced by NCCU Chancellor Karrie G. Dixon on Dec. 23, 2024, will set the agenda for the continued development and innovation of the law school, which has a proud legacy of providing access to legal education for North Carolinians.
Adams, as attorney and partner at Adams, Burge, and Boughman PLLC, of Fayetteville, has long been an advocate for education and legal excellence. In addition to his law practice, Adams is a former member of the NCCU Board of Trustees and has a deep understanding of the institution’s goals and values.
"I am honored to join this distinguished group of legal leaders in helping to guide the future of the NCCU School of Law," said Commissioner Adams. "This law school has been a transformative force in the legal community, and I am excited to collaborate to ensure its continued success and growth in providing exceptional legal education."
The commission, which will be chaired by Raymond C. Pierce, former dean of the NCCU School of Law and current president of the Southern Education Foundation, will examine a wide range of areas including American Bar Association requirements, admissions standards, curricula, student success, and bar passage rates. The group is set to begin its work in January 2025, with an initial report expected by May 2025.
Adams’ appointment highlights his commitment to improving the quality of education and legal practice in North Carolina. His role on this important commission further reinforces his dedication to the betterment of our community and the future of legal education in the state.

In places where the regulatory climate makes it easier to build new homes, it’s easier for people to find housing at affordable prices.
No, really, please bear with me. I know my proposition sounds improbable. Could there truly be a direct link between the cost of building apartments and houses and the cost of renting or buying them? I submit the answer to this provocative question is yes.
My answer depends on two propositions for which, I argue, there is strong evidence. The first is that regulation increases the cost of building new residences. Many studies illustrate this effect, some from the industry itself and others from scholars who publish their work in peer-reviewed journals.
The following passage sums things up well. “Even where housing is allowed,” a group of economists stated, “local permitting requirements can drive up the cost of housing and contribute to the nation’s housing shortage.”
The economists pointed out that while “some permitting requirements serve an important purpose, such as ensuring structural, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical safety and environmental protection, the rise of unnecessary and onerous permitting has contributed to housing shortages and housing unaffordability across the country. Permitting requirements directly increase the cost of building new housing by increasing soft costs, administrative burdens, uncertainty, and delays.”
Some hack consultants on the take? Nah. I just quoted the Biden-Harris administration’s Council of Economic Advisors.
Now, in theory, homebuilders and developers might eat any higher costs imposed by housing and land-use regulations. That’s not what happens in practice, however. Consumers bear most of it —by paying higher prices, by renting or buying less quantity and quality of housing than they’d prefer, or by having to choose another location entirely where the housing is cheaper but other job or lifestyle amenities are less desirable.
A new study in the Journal of Political Economy-Macroeconomics quantified the relationship. For every 1% increase in the supply of housing, average rents fell by .19%. There was also an increase in second-hand units placed onto the market to rent.
This finding underlines a key mechanism to keep in mind: you don’t have to build “affordable housing” in order to make housing more affordable. That is, even a project aimed at middle- or upper-income consumers can end up serving the interest of lower-income consumers by freeing up preexisting houses or apartments.
The first house I ever purchased, in a starter-home neighborhood in Garner, was far from new. The couple from whom I purchased the home had lived in it for many years. When the husband got a raise at work, they jumped at the opportunity to buy another house closer to his office — and large enough to accommodate their growing family. Their decision, in turn, put an existing unit on the market for a young journalist living paycheck to paycheck.
Housing is an urgent and emotional issue. Policymakers have to talk about it, and at least promise to do something about it. On this matter, as on so many others, my advice is to focus on the supply side, not the demand side.
Except for poor people on public assistance, government ought not subsidize consumers of housing. Recent expansions of the standard deduction and caps on the mortgage-interest deduction have drastically reduced the number of Americans who take it. The deduction never played much of a role in boosting homeownership — countries such as Canada have comparable rates of homeowners without such a tax deduction — and mostly benefits high-income households.
And as Mark Calabria, former head of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, recently explained to Reason magazine, the government-sponsored enterprises Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac provide “not a homeownership subsidy but a home debt subsidy.” Their implicit federal subsidy can only boost the demand for mortgages, which “if you’re not doing anything about supply is only going to run up prices.”
Both the state legislature and local governments have been deregulating housing markets in North Carolina. Let’s do more of that, and soon.

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

What could be fresher in the New Year than a newborn baby?
Long anticipated, maybe even prayed for, a new baby is a sign of hope, of renewal, and of family. It is a rare opportunity to fall totally and permanently in love.
Babies change everyone around them but especially their parents, who now have responsibilities they are likely to carry for the rest of their days. First among them—what are we going to name this tiny little person?
We in the South are fond of giving our babies names of others in our families, living and dead—a so-called “family name.” I carry my maternal grandmother’s name, Margaret Dawson, and I am forever thankful that her name was not Scheherazade. Not all parents are traditional. My cousin once taught a student named Chandelier, for reasons no one ever explained.
The Social Security Administration is a resource for parents struggling with just the right name for their little bundle of joy. The SSA has kept records of what Americans name our most precious possessions since 1880. Turns out baby-naming is just about as trendy as designer handbags and blue jeans with holes in the knees. It also appears, at least to this writer, that boy babies are more likely to have solidly traditional names, and that parents are more likely to be creative with what to call their girls, especially in the 21st century.
Consider this:
In 1925 the 10 most popular girl names were Mary, Dorothy, Betty, Helen, Margaret, Ruth, Virginia, Doris, Mildred, and Elizabeth. Leading for boys were Robert, John, William, James, Charles, George, Joseph, Richard, Edward, and Donald. We still see a lot of those names now, but only 1 remains in the top 10.
Top billing for girls in 2023 (2024 is not yet available) were Olivia, Emma, Charlotte, Amelia, Sophia, Mia, Isabella, Ava, Evelyn, and Luna. Boys' names were also more varied than in 1925 with the top 10 being Liam, Noah, Oliver, James, Elijah, Mateo, Theodore, Henry, Lucas, and good old William.
So what names do we have to look forward to in 2025?
Lilia Corrigan, a name consultant with Heart Baby Names, told the HuffPost that nostalgic names “like Eloise, Maeve, and Otis” are on the horizon as are names that come from diverse influences, such as “Aria, Ayaan, and Leila.” She adds that names “tied to the natural world….like River, Sage, and Aurora reflect a desire for grounding and connection in a fast-paced world.” Another consultant, Heidi Prunkl, founder of Baby Name Sunday, is expecting to see daycare centers populated with “Cleo, Bear, Gia, Arlo, Jade, Ivy, or Kai.”
Biblical names are always in style, says Sherri Suzanne, founder of My Name for Life, another name consulting firm. She told HuffPost that some Biblical names have been used for generations, but that today’s parents are opting for lesser-known Biblical figures like “Erza and Micah and Ezekiel.” She will not be surprised to meet a few Enochs and Boazes.
Corrigan also expects “cool, unisex names like Blair, Rowan, and Ellis….These names feel fresh, modern and versatile….Sterling, Palmer, Finley, and Teagan are poised to rise in popularity in 2025.”
This is a lot to ponder for those of us who have or will have buns in the oven. As a mother of three, my advice is to remember that your precious jewel will carry the name you give him or her for life, and that what sounds fabulous in 2025 might not have such a positive ring in a decade or two.
You should also know that there really was a Scheherazade growing up with me on our little two-block street in Haymount.
As we say in the South, bless her heart.

Before the sun rose on a chilly Tuesday, a group gathered in Raleigh’s Bicentennial Park to read 60,000 names. From 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., various speakers took turns at a podium, aptly facing away from the North Carolina Supreme Court. Members of the political Can’t Win Victory Fund made their way through lists of voters whose ballots are being protested by Republican Court of Appeals Judge Jefferson Griffin — the apparent runner-up in his race against Democratic incumbent Allison Riggs for a seat on the state’s highest court.
Griffin is asking courts to remove these voters from final election tallies in an attempt to flip the political race in his favor after two recounts have him behind by just 734 votes. In his protests, he argues that many of these people may be ineligible to vote, either because they improperly registered or because the State Board of Elections allowed them to cast their ballot in contradiction to North Carolina law.
The State Board, Riggs and other detractors argue that retroactively removing residents who cast their ballots would violate their right to vote and democracy itself.
Claudia Mixon, who attended the event with her mother and sister, said the length of the list should help put the extent of the protests in perspective and that Griffin and his fellow Republicans “should accept their loss.”
“It’s a lot of people’s votes that just are not gonna matter,” Mixon said. “It’s against democracy to vote and then have your vote just be thrown out because the other party lost.”
Political power play
Both supporters and critics of Griffin’s protests point to election integrity as their primary motivation to win the legal battle.
But often lost in the details is a more specific, political goal: to secure control of the state Supreme Court by 2030, when the next U.S. Census occurs. After that, the subsequent redistricting process begins.
The court’s Republicans now hold a 5-2 majority, with Riggs and fellow Democratic Justice Anita Earls making up the political party minority. If Griffin successfully throws out votes and flips the race, the GOP would hold an overwhelming 6-1 partisan advantage.
Often, North Carolina is home to redistricting and gerrymandering fights that make their way through the courts. The state Supreme Court may very well be the key decision maker in nearly inevitable redistricting lawsuits.
“We have a path to being able to get fair maps in North Carolina. The path goes directly through the state Supreme Court,” Can’t Win Victory Fund organizer Beth Kendall said. “We need to win this race. We need to win Anita Earl’s race in 2026 and then we need to flip the court back to Democratic control in 2028.”
How we got here
The State Board of Elections messed up. Griffin wants 60,000 voters to pay for it.
Griffin’s primary protest boils down to an issue with North Carolina’s voter registration form that went unchecked for years.
The form did not clarify that registrants must provide either a driver’s license or the last four digits of their social security number to properly register to vote. Registrants who lack both may check a box indicating so, and bring additional identifying documents the first time they cast a ballot.
Before the State Board caught its mistake, 225,000 voters were processed without one of the two requirements. A little more than 60,000 of them cast votes in the 2024 general election.
Griffin wants them out of the count.
He also wants smaller groups of voters removed — 267 who are U.S. citizens but have never lived in North Carolina and 5,509 from overseas who did not attach photo identification to their absentee ballots. Members of those groups have voted under the State Board’s interpretation of North Carolina law for years.
In the months preceding the election, Republicans sued the board over these issues. Those suits were dismissed or postponed until after the 2024 election. Griffin’s protests attempted to revive them.
The State Board of Elections dismissed Griffin’s protests on substantive and procedural grounds.
Griffin appealed that decision directly to the N.C. Supreme Court, asking to stop election certification in his race until a court could rule on the merits.
The court obliged. Pending a federal appellate court decision on whether the case should be heard in state or federal court, the state Supreme Court will decide whether any ballots should be removed from the count.
The latest
Griffin asked the court to focus on overseas voters who did not provide photo identification before addressing the other protests.
If the case ends up at the state Supreme Court, Riggs will recuse herself.
For Griffin to succeed, four of the remaining six justices would have to agree to grant Griffin’s wish to remove voters from the final election tally. In the case of a 3-3 deadlock, the lower decision stands — in this case, the State Board’s dismissal. The State Board would then likely certify the election as it stands, with Riggs winning re-election.
Earls and Republican Justice Richard Dietz dissented to the court’s temporary election certification stay and are likely to oppose Griffin’s motion. It’s unclear how the others may decide.
‘Moral decision’
Terry Mahaffey, an Apex Town Council member, has created an online tool that makes it easier for people to determine whether their vote is being challenged.
Common Cause North Carolina, a left-leaning grassroots organization, has shared that tool with the public, and is advertising on mobile billboards across Raleigh to spread awareness of Griffin’s protests.
Common Cause is also advertising on mobile billboards in other parts of Wake County and will continue to do so until Griffin concedes, campaigns manager Gino Nuzzolillo said. The billboards include a link, and several hundred people have added their names to a petition against Griffin’s protests since the campaign began.
The N.C. Supreme Court has a “moral decision” to make, Nuzzolillo said. Whoever wins this and upcoming Supreme Court races will “get to determine who has legislative majorities for the next decade and beyond.”
“So every single race, every single contest for that court, is about nothing less than who controls the future of political power in the state. And it’s not about Democrats or Republicans. It’s about the people of North Carolina.... Every aspect of our daily lives can be shaped by this court, one way or another,” he said.

Editor's Note: This article has been edited for space. To read the article in full, visit https://bit.ly/40CO4dc

Physical Therapist Assistants work alongside a Physical Therapist to provide rehabilitative care and treatment to patients recovering from injuries, surgeries, or illnesses. PTAs help patients improve mobility, reduce pain, and prevent or manage physical disabilities through prescribed exercises, therapeutic techniques, and other interventions. Our duties include implementing treatment plans, monitoring patient progress, educating patients about exercises and proper body mechanics, and assisting with physical therapy equipment.
Outlook for the Next Ten Years.The demand for PTAs is expected to grow significantly over the next decade. This growth is driven by an aging population, increased awareness of the benefits of physical therapy, and a rise in chronic conditions such as arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, and obesity. Additionally, as more people seek non-invasive treatments, physical therapy becomes a preferred option over surgery or medication. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment for PTAs will grow by about 19% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for other occupations.
Specialties within Physical Therapy. As PTAs, we are integral rehabilitation team members. We have diverse opportunities in a variety of specialty treatment areas and a strong employment outlook in the coming years.
Physical therapy encompasses various specialties, and PTAs can work in any of these fields, including:
1. Orthopedic Physical Therapy: Focuses on musculoskeletal injuries, such as fractures, strains, and post-surgical rehabilitation.
2. Neurological Physical Therapy: This type of therapy works with patients who have neurological disorders, such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson’s disease, Traumatic Brain Injury.
3. Pediatric Physical Therapy: Deals with developmental and physical conditions in children, such as cerebral palsy or scoliosis.
4. Geriatric Physical Therapy: This field focuses on age-related issues such as arthritis, osteoporosis, and balance disorders in elderly patients.
5. Sports Physical Therapy: Specializes in sports-related injuries, including sprains, strains, and rehabilitation for athletes.
6. Cardiopulmonary Physical Therapy: This therapy assists patients with heart and lung conditions, helping them regain strength and endurance after cardiac events or surgery.
7. Women’s Health Physical Therapy: Focuses on issues such as pregnancy-related pain, pelvic floor disorders, and post-partum rehabilitation.
The American Physical Therapy Association emphasizes the following core values that PTAs uphold in their work and actions:
1. Optimization of Human Movement: PTAs help patients achieve their fullest potential by enhancing mobility and overall function. This reflects the commitment to ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their limitations, have the opportunity to live life to its fullest.
2. Innovation in Healthcare: PTAs are key in adopting new technologies, treatment approaches, and evidence-based practices to improve patient care and outcomes. Their involvement helps drive forward-thinking methods to improve healthcare delivery.
3. Advancement in Education: Through their involvement in educational opportunities, PTAs contribute to the ongoing growth of their knowledge base. Whether through formal advanced proficiencies, continuing education, or mentorship, they participate in elevating the standards of practice for the profession.
4. Advocacy for Equal Access to Services: PTAs help ensure that physical therapy services are accessible to everyone, no matter their age or background. This includes advocating for equitable healthcare policies, reducing barriers to treatment, and working toward eliminating health disparities.
5. Vigilance in Protecting Patient Rights: PTAs work tirelessly to protect the rights of their patients and clients. This includes ensuring patient privacy, consent, and the ethical treatment of all individuals, regardless of their background.
6. Responsiveness to Patient, Client, and Member Needs: PTAs are responsive to the dynamic and evolving needs of the people they serve. Whether adjusting treatment plans, adapting to new healthcare requirements, or meeting patient concerns, they maintain flexibility and responsiveness to ensure optimal care.
7. Respect for Diversity: PTAs embrace and respect the diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences of patients, clients, and fellow healthcare professionals. They recognize the importance of cultural competence in delivering effective, individualized care.
By aligning with these values, PTAs play a critical role in advancing the physical therapy profession, advocating for patients, and making a meaningful impact in the communities they serve. Their efforts help shape the future of healthcare by ensuring that the profession remains inclusive, innovative, and patient-centered. We invite you to learn more about FTCC and the Physical Therapist Assistant program at faytechcc.edu or contact Dr. Annette Webster at webstera@faytechcc.edu.

At last Carter Wrenn, the well-known conservative consultant, has written his book about his life in politics: “The Trail of the Serpent: From the Smoke-Filled Rooms of Politics.”
Wrenn first worked for Tom Ellis, a conservative North Carolina lawyer and early supporter of Jesse Helms.
Wrenn writes, “The year I turned twenty-two, in 1974, not meaning to, I landed in politics; a year later Ronald Reagan ran for president and a man I barely knew—Tom Ellis, Reagan’s North Carolina Chairman—told me, ‘Build the campaign.’ Politics is a vicious world. Proud, certain they hold power in their men in campaigns tell themselves, “I’m winning this election.”
“But as Gary Pearce, a Democrat I battled for years, told me after our hair turned gray: ‘When you’re in a campaign you’re really like a frog on a log floating down a river watching the banks roll by telling yourself, ‘I’ve really got this log rolling’—but it’s not you, it’s the river.’”
Wrenn’s first assignment was driving Helms to a campaign supper at a Christian school.
Arriving at the school, “Jesse ambled out of the car—a covey of old women wearing faded gingham dresses, faces wrinkled by the sun, bosoms heaving, hovered around him, becoming the soul of Southerncourtliness, half-bowing to the ladies, he fawned over the children, stood joking with the men.”
More than four decades later, Wrenn can still hear and experience the speech Helms gave that night “Rising, walking to the podium, he tapped the microphone, puffed his cheeks, frowned, shuffled papers, stared up at the ceiling, pursed his lips, made a popping sound with his mouth, told a joke about Ted Kennedy then got down to raw bare-knuckled politics talking about the night Ted Kennedy drove off the bridge at Chappaquiddick, about staring at Kennedy’s red face across the Senate, saying Kennedy didn’t get his rosy cheeks lying on the beach and, if he did, it was because the bottle lying on the sand beside him wasn’t suntan lotion.
“Mispronouncing Nelson Rockefeller’s name Jesse said he had no beef with ‘Rock-y-fella’ personally--he said Rock-y-fella’s problem was his womanizing; he said he knew a lot of people didn’t care about that kind of thing anymore but he was old fashioned. He’d been the only senator who voted against making Rock-y-fella vice president because his conscience wouldn’t let him vote for a man who’d stolen another man’s wife.
“The last time Jesse said Rockefeller’s name his eyebrows popped upwards into the center of his forehead, looking like an enraged owl.”
“His voice changed, becoming lower, richer, throbbing with emotion, talking about religion, telling a story about an eight-year-old boy, Jackie, dying of leukemia, who every morning at sunrise rolled his wheelchair down to the lake by his home to watch the wild swans rise into the sky—Jesse’s voice broke. You could have heard a pin drop.
Heaving a long sigh he told how one morning just after dawn his phone rang, and a friend said, ‘Senator, I thought you’d want to know Jackie passed on this morning.’”
Stopping, leaning down, hand shaking, Jesse fumbled with the water pitcher, poured himself a glass of water, drank, calmed himself, told how just before he died sitting by the lake at dawn in his wheelchair watching the wild swans rise into the sky the dying boy said, “Someday, I’m going to fly high in the sky like those swans.” The woman sitting across the table from me had a broad wrinkled face, matted gray hair, and tears streaming down her cheeks--you could have cut the emotion in the room with a knife.”
Wrenn remembers, “I looked at Jesse stunned, staring into a world I never knew existed. The moment he finished his speech Jesse made a beeline for the exit; striding through the shadows across the parking lot in the darkness he chuckled softly, nodded toward the gymnasium behind him.
‘I really had them with me tonight.’”
“The tears running down a woman’s cheeks were real, the world I stared into was real--but the man on the stage was an actor. I should have seen it as a warning...but didn’t.”
Wrenn tells how Helms used his power hold on his supporters to develop a fundraising organization that transformed North Carolina and American politics.
In later chapters that will be the subject of a future column, Wrenn tells more about how Helms, as an actor and politician gained and used real power.

Editor's note: D.G. Martin, a retired lawyer, served as UNC-System’s vice president for public affairs and hosted PBS-NC’s North Carolina Bookwatch. (Photo: Carter Wren's new book, "The Trail of the Serpent: Stories from the Smoke Filled Rooms of Politics," talks of his time working for Jesse Helms. The book is available now. Photo courtesy of D.G. Martin)

Downtown Fayetteville welcomed a new and vibrant addition with the opening of Floral Oasis at 312 Hay Street in November 2024. This new flower shop aims to be more than just a place to purchase flowers; it aspires to be a cornerstone of community engagement and creative expression.
Floral Oasis introduces a unique concept born from the need for more community spaces and activity-oriented socialization in Fayetteville. This shop offers a fresh and exciting experience for both newcomers and long-time residents, promising a touch of uniqueness in every visit.
Floral Oasis has been thoughtfully designed to serve as a sanctuary where individuals can gather, socialize, and express their creativity. The space is colorful and vibrant, offering a visual feast that complements the creative activities it hosts. It aims to be a welcoming and joyful place for everyone. The shop encourages visitors to build their own arrangements or bouquets by selecting each stem, thereby adding a personal touch to their floral creations.
Floral Oasis distinguishes itself by taking the mundaneness out of grocery store flowers and the isolation out of traditional floristry. Unlike typical floral shops, Floral Oasis offers a variety of floral supplies and stems that allow customers to create their own unique arrangements.
Additionally, the shop's mission is to provide a safe and joyful environment where people can come together, feel a sense of community, and experience the therapeutic benefits of working with fresh flowers. This commitment to community and creativity makes Floral Oasis a standout destination in Fayetteville.
Floral Oasis isn't just a flower shop; it's also a hub for creative events and workshops. The shop offers various workshops like the popular Christmas Centerpiece Workshop held in December. These events provide an opportunity for participants to learn new skills, meet new people, and have fun in a supportive environment.
In addition to workshops, Floral Oasis offers the option to rent the space for your own DIY flower events. Whether you're planning a birthday party, a special event, or just a gathering with friends, you can utilize the in-store floral supplies and choose from a selection of vessels and florals from their suppliers to make your event truly unique. If you are interested in using their space, you can inquire about availability and other details by emailing them at contactus@floraloasisfay.com.
If you're looking to add a personal touch to your next special occasion or simply want to brighten your day, visit Floral Oasis at 312 Hay Street. The shop offers handcrafted bouquets and arrangements that are perfect for any occasion, adding a heartfelt touch to your memorable moments.
Be sure to check their website at https://www.floraloasisfay.com/ regularly to see what the Flowers of the Week are and to stay updated on upcoming workshops and events. Come and discover the art of floral beauty and community at Floral Oasis—where every visit is a unique and joyful experience.

(Floral Oasis is downtown Fayetteville's newest shop. Photo courtesy of Floral Oasis Facebook page)

Indulge in an extraordinary culinary experience where the rich, flavorful essence of Italian cuisine meets the artisanal craftsmanship of award-winning spirits. Carrabba's Italian Grill presents a night where handcrafted cocktails featuring Dry Fly Distilling's exceptional whiskey collection are thoughtfully paired with signature Italian dishes to create an unforgettable dining journey.
Each course has been meticulously curated to highlight the unique, artisanal flavors of the spirits, ensuring that every bite and sip is a symphony of taste. From savory appetizers to delectable desserts, this event promises to warm your winter night with a perfect blend of fine food and spirits.
Hosting this illustrious event is Dorado Rock, LLC, a North Carolina-based spirits distributor renowned for their commitment to premier beverages. Though founded in 2021, Dorado Rock has quickly established itself as a leader in the industry, upholding core principles of quality, transparency, and partnership.
Their impressive portfolio includes a variety of esteemed companies, and their dedication to excellence is evident in their careful selection of spirits. By partnering with Dry Fly Distillery for this event, Dorado Rock underscores their commitment to offering only the finest beverages to their clientele.
Dry Fly Distilling, located in Spokane, WA, has been a pillar of the Pacific Northwest spirits scene since its inception in 2007. Known for its high-quality, handcrafted spirits, Dry Fly has garnered numerous awards and accolades, cementing its reputation as a producer of exceptional whiskey.
Their dedication to the art of distilling is reflected in every bottle, from their carefully selected ingredients to their meticulous production processes. This heritage of excellence makes Dry Fly the perfect partner for a night of sophisticated whiskey pairings.
Prepare for a culinary adventure with a menu designed to showcase the harmonious pairing of Italian dishes and exquisite whiskey. The evening's offerings include:
Arancini - Risotto blended with fennel sausage, mozzarella, grated Parmesan and Romano cheese, breaded and fried. Served with marinara dipping sauce and paired with a "Hot Toddy" featuring Dry Fly Wheat Whiskey.
Mama Mandola's Sicilian Chicken Soup - Spicy chicken soup that has soothed the family for generations paired with "The Barreled Pear" featuring Dry Fly Bourbon 101.
Osso Buco Ravioli - Ravioli filled with braised veal, tossed in a tomato cream-goat cheese sauce and paired with a "Sangria Sour" featuring Dry Fly Port Finished Whiskey.
Prime NY Strip - Grilled to perfection and served with a side of asparagus, paired with "Ryan’s Tea" featuring Dry Fly Wheat Whiskey.
Cannoli Cake - Vanilla cake with layers of cannoli filling, pistachios, and chocolate sauce with a chocolate chip crust, paired with "Italian Old Fashioned" featuring Dry Fly Cask Strength Whiskey.
Mark your calendars for Wednesday, Jan. 29 at 6:30 p.m. and secure your tickets for an evening that promises to be delightful and memorable. With tickets priced at $60 per person, this event offers incredible value for a night of exceptional food and drink. Tickets can be purchased at https://tinyurl.com/fn9ymyja.
Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to experience the perfect blend of Italian cuisine and artisanal whiskey in a warm, inviting atmosphere. Carrabba's Italian Grill looks forward to welcoming you for a night of culinary excellence and exquisite spirits.

When I think of the trials and tribulations of my life, I think of how God, better known as the ‘Lily of the Valley’, brought me through them. He is my everything and I will always thank Him and give Him praise. I am asking anyone who reads this article to get to know God and cultivate a close relationship with Him.
“This is My Father’s World” Women’s Conference will be held Saturday, Jan. 25 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Gardner’s Methodist Church.
“I have had this vision for about ten years now,” said Sandra Holland, Family Life Ministry’s care person at Gardner’s Methodist Church. “I attended a women’s conference at one of the churches in Aberdeen and I was so impressed with it and wanted to bring it back to our women here in Fayetteville.”
Holland added, “I am now getting the opportunity to do that and we are very excited about the women that we have coming that will be speaking.”
What resonated so deeply with Holland about the conference were the speakers, discussion groups, how the women opened their hearts and how they were transparent about their feelings.
“We told each other our hopes, dreams, fears and how we coped with things,” said Holland. “I became very emotional because I felt the presence of the Lord in that place.”
The name, “This is My Father’s World,” was chosen because the speakers are going to take each participant from ant hills to hummingbirds and to bees as they tell their stories from the heart. The day-long agenda entails registration, a continental breakfast and lunch, a welcome and worship service, speakers, a discussion group, sharing time and more.
The keynote speaker of the event is Marianne Liscio. She is a certified speaker for Fayetteville’s Women Connection.
“She is such a commanding and charismatic speaker that will have you laughing one minute and crying the next,” said Holland. “One of the stories that she is going to share is when her father died and how the hummingbird came and brought her healing from that.”
She added, “Marianne has a lot of wonderful things planned for our women’s conference.”
Amy Sparks will be speaking about “From Tragedy to Triumph: A Story of Hope.”
“She will speak about her son’s death, his autism, how she coped and how hope was brought back into her life,” said Holland.
Susan Wilson is from Page Memorial United Methodist Church in Aberdeen and she will speak about “Living The Joy of Divine Healing.”
“She will be speaking about healing from losing a job, losing a life partner and how she has brought healing into the community,” said Holland. “She has started a ministry in Southern Pines for the homeless and she goes out on the street to minister to the homeless.”
Holland added that this conference is going to be from Healing to Hope for 2025.
Developing an intimate relationship with God empowers us through the Holy Spirit.
“My family and I have always been Christians, and we have always gone to church,” said Holland. “I remember a revival that we had at our church when I was 12-years-old and the visiting speaker had dinner with us and talked with me.”
She added, “The next night he asked for people to come to the altar that wanted to give their life to fulltime Christian service. I felt myself standing in the aisle walking down to the altar. When I got to the altar he said, ‘I have been waiting on you.’”
He prophesized to Holland in a profound letter that she would one day become a teacher in a Christian school.
“I am retired now, but I have spent 29 years of my life teaching in the church,” said Holland. “I know it was God’s plan and he has had a plan for my life for 80 years now.”
Women’s conferences are a great opportunity for Biblical fellowship, sharing wisdom to navigate life’s journey and building a sisterhood within a spiritual connection.
“It is important in this day, time and our world to have this kind of conference because people are broken and looking for hope and that is only going to be found in the Lord,” said Holland. “We, as Christians, are going to have to step up and say what we need to say because we have stood in the background too long and let evil take over our world.”
She added, “One of my daughters told me that God let us go through a dark time and now he is letting us have this spark of hope in this new year. This is our time to come back to the Lord and say what we need to say and do what we need to do to be Christians.”
“We welcome everybody and want this conference to be a joyful and spiritual day that we can all join together and worship the one God that we love,” said Holland. “None of us know how long we have on this Earth and it is important for us as Christians to try to reach everyone that we can.”
Registration is $25 per person. All women are welcome. Gardner’s Methodist Church is located at 4555 Rosehill Road. For more information call 910-309-7799.

Historical Overview of Settlers
The first large group of Scottish settlers arrived in 1739, establishing the Argyll Colony along the Cape Fear River. The area was named after a Scottish county known for its whiskey. More than 20,000 additional Scottish settlers arrived in the area between the 1760s and 1780s, creating the communities of Campbellton and Cross Creek. These two settlements would become united and named “Fayetteville” in 1783. Many settlers settled in areas that are now Cumberland, Harnett, Hoke, and Moore counties.
Some believe that a second mass migration of Scottish settlers occurred after the Highland Scots lost the Battle of Culloden to the British in 1746. This historic event marked a significant turning point, prompting many Scots to seek new opportunities in the American colonies.
The Scottish migration to the colonies was driven by multiple socioeconomic factors that deeply impacted their homeland. Economic hardships and political instability were among the primary reasons that motivated Scots to emigrate.
Additionally, British authorities implemented a new policy after the Battle of Culloden, allowing Scots to emigrate to the colonies after swearing a loyalty oath. This policy change significantly influenced the migration patterns, leading to a notable increase in Scottish settlers in the American colonies.
Many Scots were motivated by a strong desire to preserve their cultural heritage and traditional values, which they felt were under threat in their homeland. Most common Highland immigrants spoke only Gaelic, leading to the widespread publication of various colonial documents in Gaelic throughout the 18th century.
While Scottish elites who received British education were fluent in English, the linguistic reality of the common Highland immigrants played a crucial role in maintaining their cultural identity in the new world.
In this area, a thriving and influential merchant class emerged, marked by several notable Scottish businessmen who shaped the local economy. Prominent figures included Andrew Broadfoot, who established successful trading ventures, Robert Adam, known for his commercial acumen, James Hogg, who developed significant business interests, and Robert Donaldson, who contributed to the area's mercantile growth.
The community also benefited from skilled Scottish artisans and tradesmen, with accomplished stonemasons like George Lauder and talented architects and builders such as William Bell. Their legacy lives on in the historic buildings that still stand today, serving as tangible reminders of this prosperous merchant class.
Agriculture remained the primary livelihood for many Scottish settlers. They cultivated a diverse range of crops adapted to the local climate, including maize, wheat, oats, sweet potatoes, legumes, and flax. The establishment of grist mills proved crucial for processing corn into meal, a staple food product.
The naval stores industry emerged as another significant economic activity, producing essential shipping materials like tar, pitch, and turpentine. This industry operated alongside related enterprises such as sawmilling and coopering. The cotton industry also developed into a profitable venture, particularly benefiting Scottish women and girls who found employment in spinning and processing activities, contributing significantly to household incomes.
The Scottish influence runs deep throughout North Carolina, evident in the numerous streets and residents bearing Scottish surnames. This rich heritage continues to thrive through various cultural celebrations held throughout the year. The Highland Games showcase traditional Scottish athletics and music, while Tartan Day honors Scottish-American contributions. The annual Robert Burns’ Supper pays homage to Scotland's national poet with traditional haggis, poetry readings, and bagpipe performances, keeping the state's Scottish traditions vibrantly alive today.
Burns Night: Guide to the Celebration
Burns Night, or Burns' Supper, is a celebration of the life and poetry of Robert Burns, a revered Scottish poet born on January 25, 1759. The tradition began on July 21, 1801, when Burns' friends gathered at his cottage in Ayrshire to commemorate the fifth anniversary of his death.
Since then, Burns Night has become a significant Scottish tradition, observed annually on January 25th, Robert Burns' birthday. The event honors his literary contributions and reflects on Scottish culture and heritage.
The Burns Supper menu is a celebration of traditional Scottish cuisine. The meal typically begins with a soup course, featuring options like Scottish broth, potato soup, Cullen skink (a smoked haddock soup), or cock-a-leekie (a leek and chicken soup).
The highlight of the meal is undoubtedly the haggis, a dish made by stuffing sheep's innards with various ingredients and boiling it. It's traditionally served with 'neeps and tatties'—mashed turnips and potatoes. Depending on the host, additional courses such as dessert, cheese, or coffee may be included, all offering more traditional Scottish fare.
The ceremonial aspects of Burns Night add a sense of tradition and reverence. As guests arrive, a bagpiper plays, setting the tone for the evening. Once everyone is seated, grace is said, often using the 'Selkirk Grace,' a well-known Scottish prayer.
The arrival of the haggis is a momentous occasion. Guests stand as a bagpiper leads the procession of the haggis to the table. The host or a guest then recites 'The Address to a Haggis,' a poem by Robert Burns. This is followed by a whiskey toast, and guests sit down to enjoy their meal.
After the main meal, the host or selected guests may share stories about Robert Burns' life or perform his poems and songs. This not only honors Burns but also entertains and educates the attendees.
A key part of the evening is the series of toasts. The 'Immortal Memory' toast honors Robert Burns' legacy. The 'Address to the Lassies' thanks the women who prepared the meal, followed by a toast to their health. The women then respond with the 'Reply to the Laddies,' concluding with another toast. These speeches and toasts add a lively and interactive element to the celebration.
Join Cape Fear Valley Scottish Clans for their Burns Night
The Cape Fear Valley Scottish Clans, a local group, will be hosting their own Burns Night. The group was officially chartered on Aug. 23, 1954, and rechartered in September 1993. Their dedication to maintaining and promoting Scottish heritage has made them a cornerstone of the local community.
The mission of the Cape Fear Valley Scottish Clans is to preserve the history and traditions of the Scots who settled in the region. They achieve this by collecting and preserving records and history, promoting social activities, and coordinating Scottish participation in local and regional civic events.
As a 501(3)c charitable organization, CFVSC also focuses on educating the community about Scottish heritage and encouraging participation from anyone interested in Scottish or Celtic history. With a membership of 80-100 people, they create a welcoming environment for all.
One of the most anticipated events hosted by CFVSC is their Burns Night, which has been a tradition since 1988. This year's Burns Night will take place on January 25 at Gates Four Country Club, starting at 5 p.m.
Guests can look forward to an evening filled with traditional Scottish music from Cross Creek Pipes and Drums, as well as a menu featuring haggis and tatties. Marianne O'Loane, a spokesperson for CFVSC, emphasizes the importance of this event in keeping Scottish traditions alive. She also encourages people to attend because it is a fun and enriching experience.
Tickets for their Burns Night are $37.50 per person, $75 per couple and $10 for a kids' plate. Men are asked to dress in Highland, Military or coat and tie attire. Preferred attire for women is dressy and elegant evening wear. Gates Four Country Club is located at 6775 Irongate Drive. If you are interested in learning more about Burns Night or would like to purchase tickets visit https://www.cfvscots.org/.
Get Involved
If you are interested in Scottish or Celtic history, CFVSC welcomes you with open arms. You don't need a Scottish name or lineage to join; all that is required is an interest in the culture and a willingness to participate.
Becoming a member is a great way to immerse yourself in Scottish traditions, meet new people, and contribute to the preservation of a rich cultural heritage. Whether you are a descendant of Scots or simply have a passion for history, CFVSC offers a community where you can belong. A membership form can be downloaded from the CFVSC website here: https://www.cfvscots.org/
Don’t miss the Gaelic Beginnings Trail, a self-guided heritage trail that maps out key locations and buildings that remain from early Scottish settlers. See the details for the Gaelic Beginnings Heritage Trail here: https://tinyurl.com/546zhcvr
There are also many great resources to learn if you have Scottish roots. The CFVSC has resources on their website at https://www.cfvscots.org/ and also be sure to visit https://ncgenweb.us/cumberland/scottish.htm for additional tools and resources.

Get ready to embark on an imaginative journey, stepping into a whimsical Wonderland. Inspired by the fantastical world of Alice in Wonderland, Blissful Alchemists’ Vision Board Party creates an enchanting atmosphere where creativity knows no bounds.
On Friday, Jan. 24 at 6 p.m. leave reality behind and embrace a space where dreams can flourish. With an environment designed to ignite the imagination, attendees will find themselves exploring the depths of their goals and aspirations like never before.
Get ready to turn dreams into tangible realities with an immersive vision board creation session. Blissful Alchemists will provide an extensive treasure trove of carefully curated supplies including glossy magazines, sparkling glittery accessories, vibrant stickers, and enchanting whimsical printables to help build a vision board that truly reflects eventgoers’ biggest aspirations and deepest desires.
Whether focusing on personal growth, career milestones, or manifesting a more radiant version of yourself, vision boards are a sacred canvas to create a glowing future filled with endless possibilities. Let creativity and imagination run wild using thoughtfully select images, words, and symbols that resonate with the soul's calling. Through this intentional creative process, attendees will craft a powerful vision board that not only embodies dreams but also serves as a daily visual reminder of goals and intentions.
Blissful Alchemists’ guided session provides the perfect space and supportive environment to help attendees tap into their inner wisdom and translate their aspirations into a beautiful, tangible representation that will inspire and motivate them on their journey toward making those dreams a reality.
Step up to the Glow Goals Wall and illuminate the aspirations that make the heart shine. Write down goals and seal them in the Wonderland-inspired envelopes. At the end of the year, Blissful Alchemists will mail them back to attendees for a moment of reflection and progress.
This unique feature allows guests to encapsulate dreams and revisit them, ensuring that the glowing goals stay at the forefront of the journey throughout the year.
Fuel creativity with the enchanting 'Drink Me' and 'Eat Me' treats. These carefully crafted refreshments are designed to keep the imagination soaring and energy flowing as attendees map out their dream year ahead.
These charming Wonderland-themed delights transform the vision board experience into a truly magical journey, adding an extra sprinkle of enchantment that makes the entire event even more memorable and extraordinary.
This event is more than just creating vision boards; it's a journey into a world of possibility. Like Alice, guests will leave the ordinary behind and embrace the glowing potential of your future.
Join a community of like-minded individuals who are “all mad here, just like you,” and make this magical experience one to remember. Glowing goals are worth the adventure!
"Glow Goals: Down the Rabbit Hole of Your Dreams" will take place at Blissful Alchemists at 414 Ray Ave on Friday, Jan. 24 at 6 p.m. Tickets are $64 and can be purchased at https://tinyurl.com/2rd2atch.

The arts scene has been growing over the years, with poetry nights and art showcases popping up in every corner of the county, from downtown Fayetteville to Hope Mills. These events allow for creative expression to be realized and put on full display for the community. Elegant Expressions is the newest addition to the ever-growing list of events that tantalize the mind and eyes. A monthly event at Dirty Whiskey, located at 5431 Corporation Drive, Hope Mills. Doors open at 6:45 p.m. and the show starts at 7:15 p.m. General admission is $10 in advance and $15 at the door, and VIP is available for $100. Guests must be 21 to enter. Don’t miss this month's session on Wednesday, Jan. 29: Elegant Expressions: The Whiskey Way. Tickets can be purchased online at https://bit.ly/4gHqOAc
This event is the perfect unity of visual and spoken art (poetry). The brainchild of Suave the Poet and Poetic Zae, Elegant Expressions is elevating the artistic experience of the community while giving a platform to the area's most talented individuals. Each month, Elegant Expressions will offer a new curated experience for guests featuring live art from a local artist, an open mic, and a panel discussion on a selected topic for the night. This month's theme is exploring love and romance in a contemporary world and featuring the smooth sounds of jazz and the melodic voices of local poets and spoken word artists. Guests can grab a drink from the bar, find a cozy seat, and immerse themselves in the one-of-a-kind experience. Featured artists for events will be on hand to discuss, sell, and even create art on-site, as well as custom coloring sheets for all those in attendance. Ending the event is the round couch discussion. This is a perfect opportunity for attendees to interact at the event. These discussions are meant to explore the theme of the night in more depth and allow a safe space for the creative process.
Previously held in another location, Suave and Zae went into 2025 determined to rebrand and start fresh with Elegant Expressions with the intent of drawing the crowd the event is curated for.
“We elevated an idea from an experience that we had out in Raleigh at the House of Arts. Elegant Expressions is that place where you can still experience art and creativity, in a curated space that involves stimulating conversation,” Suave said.
Both Suave and Zae are local poets and spoken word artists, passionate about bringing the art form to everyone, from every walk of life and how art reflects the times we live in. Poetic Zae or Isaiah Ellsberry is also a community activist and workshop facilitator, with numerous successful events under his belt. They both want to see this event become a monthly staple in the community. A place for the great minds and artists of Cumberland County to come together, exchange ideas, and immerse themselves in creativity in the space.
Suave the Poet and Poetic Zae both have a full lineup of shows coming up. To stay up to date on the monthly event, follow both on instagram @Suavethepoet2.0 or @Poeticzae

United Way of Cumberland County recently moved into a downtown facility that will better equip them to implement their vision of enhancing all citizens’ quality of life. On Dec. 3rd, 2024 they held a grand opening and ribbon cutting along with the Greater Fayetteville Chamber that attracted 100 visitors to their new 321 Dick Street location.
“It's not extravagant,” said Scott Embry, Executive Director of United Way of Cumberland County, “but it's a nice office building that meets all the needs of the United Way and allows us to stay focused on our mission.”
Embry said United Way serves as a central location for raising and distributing funds for nonprofit programs.
“What we do is allow these nonprofits to just focus on the work, and they don't have to spend as much of their time planning galas and fundraisers and 5ks,” he explained.
He said the need to downsize instigated the move. Maintenance in their previous location was too expensive, so they sold the building and moved into a temporary location. From there, they moved to 321 Dick Street.
“We really want to be the center of this community, we were really just needing a smaller, more efficient space,” he said. “Where we ended up is perfect for that.”
Ashlee Pearson, Director of Development at United Way of Cumberland County agreed.
“We’re able to do a lot more,” she shared. “It's just honestly amazing.”
Pearson explained that UWCC wants to “improve lives across Cumberland County by strategically raising and investing resources that successfully impact and prioritize human services and needs while working in effective and innovative partnerships with direct provider agencies each year.”
According to UWCC’s website, their 2023/2024 impact included 171,013 people helped, 4,601 volunteer hours, $1,019,474 funds granted, and 789 volunteers.
Commenting on the collaboration and volunteer efforts within the community, Embry said, “I love that Fayetteville is such a compassionate, giving community. You know that slogan that you see with Fayetteville, the 'Can-Do City'? I think it's true. I don't think it's just a slogan.”
He hopes their move downtown will free them up to focus on their work instead of maintaining a building and allow them to offer their new facility as a meeting space for agency partners, “We want people to know where we are and to utilize us.”
Embry shared that they’ve intentionally brought elements of the old into the new. They’ve repurposed exterior signs from the old building in the interior of the new building, even bringing elements such as an iconic bell that donors ring after making donations, which has been with UWCC for decades.
Several new staff members have been added to the team in the last couple of years, including Embry himself, who joined as Executive Director in 2024. Embry said many staff members feel the move is a “fresh start” for everyone.
“We don’t want to forget our roots, but we do need to be working on new stuff, and this is a great home to do it in,” he elaborated.
Embry articulated an open invitation to anyone wanting to learn how to get involved with UWCC’s mission.
“If they want to get involved with their time, talent or treasure, we need all of those and we'd love to sit down and have some dialog around it.”
Contact and upcoming event information can be found on the UWCC Facebook page and website at https://www.unitedway-cc.org/

(Photo: The United Way of Cumberland County held their ribbon cutting ceremony for their new location on Dec. 3, 2024. Photo courtesy United Way of Cumberland County)

The All-American Fencing Academy hosted one of its largest tournaments, with 4 events, and a total of 34 fencers. Saturday, Jan. 4, Fayetteville's Olympic fencing academy hosted the Elementary and Middle School fencing circuit as well as one of the meets for Varsity and Junior Varsity Homeschool fencers.
After coming from back-to-back medals, Olivia McKinney, a 5th grader at Overhills High School in Harnett County, took first place with an undefeated record throughout the day. Previously, Olivia McKinney took 1st in "The Southern," a USA Fencing Regional event in Myrtle Beach. She also took 3rd place in an all-girls intramural tournament during the Christmas Holidays.
Isabella Lee, a 7th grader at Seventy-First Classical Middle School in Cumberland County, has also been competing in several USA Fencing Regional events, also went undefeated in the middle school event. Isabella has had a string of successes, recently missing the medal stand by one loss at "The Southern" and the Junior Olympic Qualifiers. However, in 2024, she had racked up 3 gold medals.
The All-American Homeschool Varsity Team, The Dead Squirrels, fell to Wilmington's Southeastern Cardinals in the homeschool team event. The Cardinals eventually took first place in the weekend's homeschool team event. The Cumberland Musketeers, the area's second homeschool varsity team, took third. This marks the first time the Fayetteville/Cumberland area has fielded 2 homeschool fencing squads!
In the Junior Varsity individual event, Mesha Green was the only competitor to represent the area. Green took 7th. The winner in the individual event was Thomas Knosky from the Wilmington Southeastern Cardinals.
From Feb. 14 to 17, Charlotte, NC, will be host to USA Fencing's Junior Olympics. Isaac Canady is the sole fencer to qualify from the All-American Fencing Academy during the Junior Olympic Qualifying tournament. This will be Canady's second time qualifying for and competing in the Junior Olympics in the Junior Men's Foil event. Last year, Canady placed 315 out of 348 fencers. This year, Canady, will have 343 fencers in his event.
A Growing Sport and a Growing Club
The sport of fencing is growing world-wide. In a historically European dominated sport, US teams have consistently been in the top places on the world stage for several years in World Cups, World Championships, and Olympics.
The All-American Fencing Academy also hosts a Walk-In Class for fencers that want to give it a try without making a full month commitment. The Walk-In Classes occur during Downtown Fayetteville’s Fourth Friday events.
The All-American Fencing Academy is located in Downtown Fayetteville at 207 B Donaldson St. It instructs and trains recreational and competitive fencers starting at age 7, teens, adults, and veterans ages 40+. Its fencers compete regionally and nationally. Their coaches include former World Cup and NCAA fencers.
For more information about the All-American Fencing Academy and its classes, please call 910-644-0137, e-mail info@allamericanfencing.com or visit www.allamericanfencing.com.

(Photo: Fencers participate in a tournament at All-American Fencing Academy, Jan. 4. Photo courtesy of All-American Fencing Academy)