Calling all men in the Fayetteville and Cumberland County area! Now is the time to give back, raise awareness, and have a whole lot of fun doing it.

Walk Awhile is back for its 14th year in downtown Fayetteville on March 22nd at 6 p.m. Line-up will start at Capital Encore Academy, located at 126 Hay Street and participants will walk from Capital to the steps of Segra Stadium. For those unfamiliar with Walk Awhile, it’s an event presented by the Phoenix Center of Fayetteville to bring awareness to domestic and sexual violence. This is a downsized and localized version of Walk a Mile in Her Shoes, an international awareness event.

Deanne Gerdes, Executive Director said, “Walk a Mile in Her Shoes is an international event. When we brought it to Fayetteville 14 years ago, we changed it to Walk Awhile in Her Shoes. I was not sure I could convince my closest friends to walk an entire mile! We wanted an event for a family to be involved in, or coworkers to participate together in the event. We wanted conversations about violence against women to happen, and of course to raise money for victims we serve …There is an old saying: ‘You can't understand another person's experience until you've walked a mile in their shoes.’ To get people listening, learning, and talking, we have asked men to do just that. We have 200 pairs of red high heel shoes that men can throw on walk and walk a few blocks down Hay Street and show that they take a stand against violence.” Gerdes has been with the Phoenix Center for almost 15 years (the anniversary is next month!) and has played an integral part in the longevity and success of the event.

Fourth Friday will set the perfect stage to bring visibility to often underreported issues for women. While awareness of domestic and sexual violence is important every day of the year, the coinciding of Women’s History Month and Fourth Friday increases the visibility of this event tenfold.

Those interested in registering for the event can do so up until the event starts by calling the office at 910-485-7273. Those who register early can come by the office at 517 Ramsey Street and try on a pair of heels before the big day.

As any veteran heel wearer will advise, “Make sure they are comfortable.”

This event not only brings awareness but also shows victims that their community supports them.
“It’s important to show victims that we support them. Although you probably won’t know who they are, they will be among the walkers, volunteers, and spectators; you may not see them, but they will see you, and that’s the most important part of this walk,” said Gerdes of the importance of the event.

The Phoenix Center is an important part of our community. Gerdes explained what their role in Fayetteville is.

“The Phoenix Center provides services to victims of domestic and sexual violence. We offer a 24-hour crisis line, you can file for a domestic violence protective order in our office, and we advocate in the emergency room and in the courthouse for victims. We have support groups and we refer to mental health professionals. We work hard. We hear the worst that happens to people. Especially to women, and we advocate the best we can and the next day to do it all over again. So come out Friday, share a few laughs, thank the advocates for all their hard work, and take a stand with us.”

Party nominations for North Carolina’s 2024 elections are, for the most part, decided. Just four races remain to be settled in runoffs on May 14. So, would you say you’re generally satisfied or dissatisfied with our primaries this year?

Here’s my answer to the question: I’m deeply disappointed. It’s not that all the candidates I favored lost their primaries.

Many of my picks were, in fact, successful. My principal concern about the 2024 cycle so far is its remarkable — and dangerous — lack of substance.

I don’t expect campaigns for county commissioner, state legislature, Congress, or president to consist of Socratic dialogues or PowerPoint presentations. Resumes matter. Personalities matter. Rapport with average voters matters. And as long as politicians have competed for power, they’ve slung mud. Ancient Greek and Roman orators used to call each other the foulest of names.

But as I watched our political primaries unfold this year, I was struck by the shallowness of the discourse about such momentous issues as learning losses during COVID, deadly wars in the Middle East and Ukraine, and, especially, the fiscal recklessness of the federal government.

After decades of largely theoretical debates about the federal debt, Americans are rapidly approaching the moment in which massive federal deficits will trigger a series of painful decisions.

There will be automatic cuts to Social Security and Medicare benefits. Or Congress will enact massive tax increases. Or the Federal Reserve will attempt to monetize the debt, fueling new and devastating rounds of inflation.

Paul Winfree, a former White House aide who now runs the Economic Policy Innovation Center, puts the matter starkly in a new report. Over the next 15 years, he writes, scheduled federal deficits will largely exhaust America’s “fiscal space” — our capacity to finance public debt without great economic harm.
Politicians of all stripes offer stock “answers” to this problem that no longer make any sense, if they ever did. For example, while faster economic growth would make it easier to accommodate future borrowing, we cannot simply grow our way out of the federal debt. It’s too big. Washington will have to spend a lot less than currently projected, particularly on health programs, to bring the budget anywhere close to balance.

Nor is it possible to make much a dent in the problem by taxing the wealthy more. Federal deficits are running about 6% of the gross domestic product and will rise to 10% by mid-century. According to Manhattan Institute fiscal analyst Brian Riedl, hiking taxes on wealthy Americans — those earning in excess of $400,00 annually, let’s say — can increase federal revenue no more than 2% of GDP, and probably closer to 1% using realistic expectations.

“Most of America’s income is earned by the non-wealthy,” Riedl wrote, “and, like Scandinavia and most of Europe, the U.S. will need to tax those families considerably to meet any ambitious revenue needs.”
Although candidates for federal office have the greatest responsibility to explain how they’d tackle the problem — a responsibility that, with few exceptions, they’ve shirked — even candidates for state and local office in North Carolina aren’t really off the hook. Federal aid (which you can properly think of as federal borrowing) currently finances nearly as much of the state budget as state taxes do. It also makes up a sizable share of local budgets.

What happens if (or, more likely, when) future presidents and Congresses opt to close federal deficits in part by cutting back on aid to states and localities?

For example, North Carolina just expanded our Medicaid program under the terms of the Affordable Care Act, which reimburses previously ineligible people — mostly childless, able-bodied adults — at a much higher rate than, say, poor children or the severely disabled.

It is very likely that future federal policymakers will resolve this bizarre disparity by slashing federal funds for Medicaid. How will North Carolina policymakers make up the difference?

I wish these and other weighty issues had been front and center during the primaries. They weren’t.

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

It is halfway over now, but in some ways, it is just beginning.

We pretty much know who is going to be on our general election ballots in November, and the few races still undecided will be over shortly after a handful of runoff elections, or “second primaries,” as we call them in North Carolina. That means the time has arrived for careful thought and research into candidates—what positions they take on issues that are important to us and what kind of human beings they are—before we cast our final votes in November.

Knee-jerk reactions to candidates for whatever reasons are inappropriate, shortsighted, foolish, and, ultimately, dangerous to ourselves, our families, and everyone else.

There is little question that American democracy is on the line in November. The Harvard political scientists who wrote 2018’s stunning How Democracies Die have a new book out, Tyranny of the Minority, and if what they assert does not scare your socks off, then you are not paying attention.

Professors Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt argue that our nation has always been an experiment in democracy, evolving since its inception, and now reaching the point of becoming one of the few multi-racial democracies in history. This possibility, they write, has birthed an authoritarian reaction, some even say backlash, that has the potential to rip us apart at the seams. The scholars propose several governmental changes, some already embraced by other world democracies, to reform our political system. They make the case that we have done so in the past, notably after the Civil War. In true book jacket fashion, they assert that “we are at a crossroads: America will either become a multiracial democracy or cease to be a democracy at all.”

Those are terrifying words, and if nothing else, they should impel voters to look closely at political candidates at all levels, especially for our top jobs. Do the people running respect democracy and the judgment of the American people, or do they believe they alone are suitable for the positions they seek? Do they call others names? Do they see our complex nation and world in black and white terms or do they understand that there are few, if any, easy answers to the problems that face us?

Our individual lives are complicated, and issues facing our nation are both pressing and dangerous. Levitsky and Ziblatt, like millions of other Americans, see the 2024 general election as a turning point. The United States can either stand up to those who fear a multi-racial, multi-cultural democracy or we can give up on a democratic ideal in favor of some authoritarian form of government. The final stage of our toxic political polarization leaves little room for anything else.

As a Baby Boomer, the results of the 2024 elections, however they turn out, are unlikely to affect me and my generation profoundly, as we are heading for greener pastures. But elective choices made in 2024 will certainly affect the lives of my children and grandchildren, which, in fact, does scare my socks off. Millions of Americans feel the same way.

Elections do have consequences. When we enter the voting booth, we would all do well to think not about our own angers and disappointments but about the futures of those we love.

The Gilbert Theater is indeed back for another production. The season is NOT over and this production is sure to intrigue audiences. The latest musical production to hit the community theater stage is Assassins. A far cry from musical productions such as Cats, Assassins takes musical theater and spins it on its head with a darkly fascinating concept and arguably some of the most complicated music written for a musical. Shows started March 8th, and will run every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday until March 24th. Show times are Friday at 8 p.m. only, Saturday, at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sunday, at 2 p.m. only.

Assassins is based on the book written by John Weidman and adapted into a musical by Stephen Sondheim. A musical production unlike any other, Assassins tells the tale of nine men and women who have made an impact on history by trying and failing or successfully assassinating an American President. At its surface, a comedy peeled back to bare bones, Assassinsis a social commentary on what drives the extreme in America and leads one to kill the leader of the “free world.”

Marie Lowe is at the director's helm of this season’s production of Assassins. An active member of the theater community here in Fayetteville for a decade, this is Lowe’s first time directing a musical.

“I’m very pleased to be doing it. Assassins is a much beloved, kind of cult hit with musical theater people and Sondheim people… it’s very rarely produced, although this is the second time the Gilbert is doing it… I anticipate people really enjoying it because this cast is fantastic. It’s hard to do Assassins unless you have really good people because Sondheim is known for particularly technically difficult music… we got all the people, it’s really delightful,” Lowe said of her musical directorial debut.

Not a theater to not prepare for a production, the Gilbert Theater was able to bring in a musical director for the first three weeks of rehearsals.

“Everyone learned their music and now we are just putting it on stage and it’s going to be fantastic,” Lowe said.

Artist Director Larry Carlisle, who has managed a successful season of amazingly diverse shows, is no musical expert but his knack for finding the right directors and musical directors has paid off this season, with the Rocky Horror Show being a brilliant success last fall.   “Generally, with musicals, I try to stay pretty hands-off… this one is pretty awesome… mostly I just try to let the director and music director do their thing because I know I can’t really offer anything of usefulness,” Carlisle said.

Assassins takes place in a carnival-like purgatory and John Wilkes Booth is the leader of the band of successful and unsuccessful assassins. The cast has put in the work, with some taking method acting to a new level, such as Chris Walker and Molly Malone. 

“I’m concerned the audience will like the cast too much. They are all so good, but they are playing people who are not lovable and who are not so good. They are doing a good job of trying to bring some of that into it as well,” director Lowe said of the casting for Assassins.

With a talented cast and an equally talented director, Assassins is a can’t-miss musical production. Tickets to the show can be found on the Gilbert Theaters website, https://www.gilberttheater.com/2023-2024-season/.

The Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra and the Fayetteville Symphony Youth Orchestra will be joining forces for their annual Side-by-Side concert on Sunday, March 24 at 2:30 p.m. This exceptional event allows the FSYO to showcase their talent alongside world-class musicians.

The primary goal of the Fayetteville Symphony Youth Orchestra is to enrich music education for young musicians in the wider Fayetteville region. This is achieved by offering high-quality training, valuable ensemble playing experiences, and distinctive performance opportunities.

It's important to note that the FSYO is not limited to a single orchestra, but rather consists of five diverse ensembles. These ensembles provide orchestral training through weekly rehearsals.

By participating in the FSYO, students have the chance to expand their musical education beyond private lessons and school ensembles. They become valued members of a team, collaborating with a variety of talented young musicians.

The Youth Orchestra, under the guidance of Tim Parsons and Kristin Stiteler, is designed for skilled musicians who are proficient in one of the following instruments: violin, viola, cello, double bass, flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, French horn, trumpet, trombone, tuba, and percussion. Participants must be between the ages of 11 and 21.

The FSYO takes part in three concerts throughout the year, and the Side-by-Side concert on March 24th is one of them. This performance will showcase Sergei Prokofiev's renowned composition, "Peter and the Wolf." The storyteller recounts a captivating tale for children, while the orchestra brings it to life by utilizing a variety of instruments to portray each character through a unique musical theme.

This particular piece is widely recognized as Prokofiev's most frequently performed work, and over the years, it has played a crucial role in introducing countless young listeners to the world of classical music, while also helping them develop an appreciation for the distinct sounds produced by different orchestral instruments.

The Side-by-Side concert will take place at Huff Concert Hall on the Methodist University Campus. The concert is open to the public and free with no tickets needed. For more information on this event visit: https://rb.gy/jgsetp.

For more information on the Fayetteville Symphony Youth Orchestra visit:
https://www.fayettevillesymphony.org/youth-orchestra/.

Fayetteville Technical Community College is pleased to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the highly successful Funeral Services Education Program.

Since 1974, FTCC has trained students for rewarding careers in the funeral services industry. A great deal has changed in the half-century since those first students entered the program, but the core values of the program remain unchanged. The faculty, staff and students involved with this program are dedicated to helping people through some of the most difficult times most of us will ever experience.

Today, FTCC has the only funeral service program in North Carolina, but students from Richmond, Randolph, Vance Granville and Robeson community colleges now have the ability to earn academic credits from FTCC’s Funeral Service program, thanks to a unique partnership. Students travel from all over the state and the nation to study and learn industry-specific skills under the watchful eye of FTCC’s award-winning faculty—all licensed funeral service professionals. Students enjoy a well-rounded education in history, law, psychology, sociology, ethics, science, and funeral home operations.

Students may pursue the six-semester associate degree in Funeral Service Education, which includes courses in both funeral home operations and embalming sciences, or the three-semester N.C. Funeral Director Diploma Program, which focuses exclusively on funeral directing operations and management.

The majority of the program’s coursework can now be completed online, although some face-to-face coursework is required in embalming, restorative arts, and funeral service tasks. Students who already work in a funeral home may be allowed to complete a work-based learning option in lieu of attending the on-campus embalming lab.

Graduates of the curriculum, upon passing the national exams and completing an internship in a funeral home, will be qualified for employment as embalmers and/or funeral directors. The current median salary for funeral directors in North Carolina is $65,000 per year.

The United States Department of Labor reports strong growth in the Funeral Services industry and good job prospects for new graduates of accredited Funeral Service Education Programs, like the one at FTCC.
When student Nicole Henderson entered the Funeral Services Program at FTCC, she was concerned that she would be unable to balance her duties as a wife, a mother of three children, and a full-time employee. Nicole recently explained that her fears melted away almost instantly when she was greeted with “pure confidence” from her instructors at FTCC.

Nicole says, “I didn’t just earn a degree; I earned a whole new life.” She now enjoys a highly rewarding career as a funeral director at Reeves Funeral Home in Hope Mills. Nicole beams with pride when she calls her former instructors and “they treat me like a colleague.”

Are you ready to reimagine your future? If so, your next chapter starts at FTCC! Please contact us today. FTCC’s Funeral Services Education faculty are eager to help you take the next step on your path to success. The department chair is James Bullard, and he can be reached at bullardja@faytechcc.edu. His office is located at Cumberland Hall, Room 311-B, 2215 Hull Rd. or you can call 910-678-8301.

The full-time faculty includes David Brooks, Trey Herring and Rachel Dinehart, and the adjunct faculty includes David Hall, James Peterson, Patricia Burns, Tawanna Johnson and Ferell Mowell.

Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of America's Indigenous cultures at the BraveNation Powwow and Gathering.

Set for Saturday, March 23, in the Jones Athletic Center at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, this event promises an enriching experience that celebrates the rich history and culture of Indigenous peoples. With over 140 dancers, 7 drum groups, and various art, food and information vendors, attendees will have the unique opportunity to witness the enduring legacy and future of Indigenous communities firsthand.

History and significance of Powwows

Powwows hold a deep-rooted place within the fabric of Indigenous cultures, functioning as pivotal communal events that underscore the profound connections between tribes, their traditions, and the natural world. Originating as celebratory gatherings, powwows were instrumental in reinforcing social bonds, marking the passage of seasons, and commemorating significant milestones or achievements within the community.

These events offered a sacred space for storytelling, the sharing of wisdom, and the performance of dances that were believed to bridge the human world with the spiritual realm.

As centuries passed, powwows evolved, becoming more than just social or ceremonial gatherings; they transformed into vital custodians of Indigenous heritage, ensuring the transmission of ancient customs, languages, and beliefs to new generations.

In contemporary times, they continue to play an essential role in the cultural life of Indigenous peoples, adapting to incorporate modern influences while steadfastly preserving the essence of ancestral traditions.

Through the rhythmic beats of drums that echo ancestors' heartbeats and the intricate dance steps that trace the contours of sacred narratives, powwows like the BraveNation gathering act as vivid expressions of Indigenous identity, resilience and unity.

These events not only honor the past but also pave the way for future generations to connect with their heritage in a world that is rapidly changing, thus maintaining the vitality and relevance of Indigenous cultures in today's society.

The importance of the BraveNation Powwow at UNC Pembroke

At its core, the BraveNation Powwow stands as a poignant celebration of the resilience and vibrancy inherent in Indigenous culture. Located at UNC Pembroke — a place with roots deeply embedded in American Indian education — this powwow acts as a vital conduit, linking the university's foundational mission with its contemporary pursuit of honoring and elevating Indigenous heritage.

This event encapsulates more than just a gathering; it embodies a powerful statement of cultural endurance and pride. By hosting this powwow, UNC Pembroke not only acknowledges its unique history but also underscores its commitment to fostering an environment where the traditions and values of Indigenous cultures are not merely observed but are actively revered and integrated into the community fabric.

BraveNation Powwow & Gathering Event Details

Doors will open to the public at 10 a.m. and grand entry is at noon.
Admission prices are as follows:
• $5 for adults,
•$3 for elders (60+) and ages 7-18,
• Free for children 6 and under and UNCP students, faculty and staff with a UNCP ID
• $3 for non-UNCP college student admission with college ID

Debit card and/or cash in exact change is preferred for paying for admission.

Dancer and Drum Registration

Dancer registration will be open from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Each dancer and drummer will pay the general admission fee of $5 and be allowed entry into one competition.

Prize money will be awarded to the 1st place winner in the drum contest and first, second and third place dancers in four age categories. More information on that can be found here: https://tinyurl.com/2pcrskns

Commemorative T-Shirt

There will be a commemorative t-shirt available for purchase at the powwow. Sizes range from adult SM-4XL for $15 to youth XS-L for $10. The shirt will feature UNCP’s mascot, the red-tailed hawk, and traditional Southeastern American Indian motifs. This year's shirt was designed by Karen Bird (Lumbee).

Directions to UNCP, Map of Campus, and Parking

The event will take place in the Jones Athletic Center at UNC Pembroke. The address is 176 University Drive, Pembroke, NC 28372.
• Directions to UNCP: www.uncp.edu/about/directions
• Map of Campus: www.uncp.edu/about/campus-map
• Google Maps – Jones Center: https://maps.app.goo.gl/oXZ6mS1aqSEWDFji8
• Parking is free and located at the main entrance to the Jones Athletic Center.

How to Participate in the BraveNation Powwow

As spectators, attendees can delve into the captivating world of Indigenous performances, absorbing the rhythmic dances and soul-stirring music that define the powwow experience. The visual feast of traditional regalia and the immersive soundscape provide a profound connection to Indigenous traditions and stories.

For those seeking a more interactive role, volunteering presents a meaningful opportunity to contribute to the event’s success. Volunteers play a crucial part in the powwow, assisting with various aspects of the gathering, from setting up the venue to facilitating the day's activities.

This not only supports the event’s smooth operation but also offers volunteers a unique vantage point to experience and understand the cultural significance behind the powwow’s elements. If you are interested in volunteering you can register here: https://tinyurl.com/yc4ejcwx.

If you would like to donate, tax-deductible gifts are accepted. Gifts can be made online at www.uncp.edu/give/powwow2024 or mailed to The UNCP Foundation, PO Box 1510, Pembroke, NC 28372. Checks should be made out to The UNCP Foundation with Powwow noted in the memo line.

Supporting Indigenous Cultures Beyond the Powwow

Engagement with Indigenous cultures shouldn't end as the last drumbeat fades at the BraveNation Powwow.
There are myriad ways to carry forward the spirit of understanding, respect, and celebration experienced at the event. Education plays a pivotal role; taking the time to learn about the diverse histories, challenges, and achievements of Indigenous peoples can illuminate past injustices and highlight paths toward reconciliation and mutual respect.

Such knowledge empowers individuals to engage in informed dialogue and advocacy for Indigenous rights and sovereignty.

Supporting Indigenous-led organizations offers a direct avenue to contribute to the flourishing of these communities. Whether it involves donating to causes that protect Indigenous lands, support education and cultural preservation, or advocate for policy change, every action counts. Additionally, purchasing from Indigenous artisans and businesses not only supports economic development but also helps in keeping traditional crafts and knowledge alive.

Participation in cultural events and supporting Indigenous media are other significant ways to stay engaged. Films, books and music produced by Indigenous creators open windows to understanding diverse perspectives and narratives, enriching the cultural landscape for all.
By integrating these practices into daily life, the respect and admiration fostered at the powwow can evolve into a sustained commitment to supporting and uplifting Indigenous cultures. This ongoing engagement not only honors the richness of these communities but also contributes to a more inclusive and equitable society.

Should you need any additional information on any aspect of the BraveNation Powwow & Gathering feel free to use the options below:

• Visit uncp.edu/powwow
• Email powwow@uncp.edu
• Call 910.775.4663
• Facebook: BraveNation Powwow and Gathering at UNC Pembroke

What a difference a year makes! Every vibrant municipality needs a successful Chamber of Commerce. I have written countless articles about the amazing opportunities available in Fayetteville and Cumberland County for businesses, organizations, and entrepreneurs if only we had more competent and engaged civic, business, and governmental leadership. Effective leaders are defined by their work ethic, integrity, and active and ongoing engagement in the community.

Below I have published a letter that Brian Pearce, Chairman of the Board of the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce sent to their nearly 800 members reviewing the first 12 months of the Chamber’s performance and progress. The letter congratulates overwhelmingly Nat Robertson, Fayetteville’s former mayor and current Chamber President/CEO on his achievements and overall stellar performance. This letter is the near-perfect example at the type of aggressive and dedicated leadership needed to propel businesses and the Fayetteville community into a state of profitability and respectability in the 21st century.

Dear Greater Fayetteville Chamber Members,

As we turn the pages of our collective journey, it is with immense pride and a profound sense of community spirit that we commemorate a significant milestone - the one-year anniversary of Mr. Nat Robertson's tenure as CEO of the Greater Fayetteville Chamber. In the span of a year, Nat has not only embodied the values and vision that our Chamber stands for but has also propelled us toward new heights with unwavering dedication, innovative strategies, and a deep commitment to fostering business growth and prosperity in our beloved City and County.

Under Nat's leadership, our Chamber has experienced remarkable achievements and milestones. His strategic vision has paved the way for enhanced member services, expanded networking opportunities, and impactful advocacy efforts that have not only benefited our business community but also reinforced the economic foundation of Fayetteville and the area. His approachable leadership style and open-door policy have fostered a culture of inclusivity, collaboration, and shared purpose among our members, staff, and the wider community.

Nat's tenure has been marked by significant initiatives aimed at addressing the needs of our diverse membership, from small businesses to large corporations. His commitment to leveraging technology for better engagement, education programs, and promoting sustainable business practices reflects his forward-thinking approach to chamber leadership. Moreover, his efforts in strengthening partnerships with local government, educational institutions, and other stakeholders have been instrumental in creating a more business-friendly environment in our area.

As we celebrate this milestone, we also look forward to the continued journey under Nat's leadership. The roadmap ahead is filled with ambitious plans and exciting prospects that promise to elevate our Chamber and our community to even greater heights. We are confident that with Nat at the helm, supported by our dynamic team and you, our valued members, the Greater Fayetteville Chamber will continue to thrive and make a lasting impact in our region.

On behalf of the Board of Directors and the entire Chamber staff, I extend our heartfelt congratulations to Nat Robertson for a successful year as CEO. We are incredibly grateful for your leadership, vision, and unwavering dedication to our Chamber and community. Here's to many more years of success, growth, and achievements together!

Thank you, each and every one of you, for your continued support and commitment to the Greater Fayetteville Chamber. Together, we are making a difference in Fayetteville, and it is a privilege to embark on this journey with you all.

Warmest regards,
Brian Pearce
Chairman of the Board, Greater Fayetteville Chamber

To add substance and details to Pearce's letter for a better understanding for our readers, I have taken the liberty of documenting a few of the Chamber's achievements under Robertson’s leadership that Pearce refers to.

Robertson’s success during this past year is the near-perfect example of how putting the right person, in the right place, at the right time, produces the right results.

Robertson's Chamber of Commerce achievements:

• Recruited 300+ new Chamber members.
• Organized and Executed five (5) successful and “Sold Out” Business/Community events.
• Created and staffed the Consumer Protection Division.
• Revitalized the Military and Governmental Affairs committees.
Revised ENGAGE Magazine as the Chamber's Official Business Journal.
• Created: The quarterly Non-denominational Chamber Prayer Breakfast
• Implement bi-monthly member Success Seminars and Speaker Series.
• Assembled an enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and talented staff.

Looking Ahead

In Robertson’s own words, “…. I’m excited about the opportunities that lie ahead for the Chamber and the Fayetteville community. I am confident in our ability to continue making a meaningful impact for our members and the Fayetteville area. The Chamber team remains committed to delivering even more value to our members, fostering a dynamic business environment, and contributing to Fayetteville's economy and overall success.”

The successes of Nat Robertson in revitalizing the Chamber reflect the trust and leadership support he has received from the Chamber Board of Directors, his ability to recognize Fayetteville's potential, and his vision and talent for organizing and motivating a team of staffers and volunteers that also grasp the vision of supporting and nurturing healthy and dynamic businesses and organizations for the betterment of the entire Fayetteville and Cumberland County community.

Thank you for reading Up & Coming Weekly.

It was all a scam. Those ads at the back of comic books in the Way Back Times. Back when comics were a dime, then 12 cents, then 15 cents. Initially, the ads were a source of juvenile dreams. Once upon a time, I believed X-ray specs worked. The ad was awesome, featuring a leering guy with lightning coming out of his glasses. He enjoyed “a hilarious optical illusion” of seeing through a Lady Person’s clothing. The ad promised you could look at your hands to see the bones underneath the skin. What 13-year-old boy wouldn’t want to have such an amazing scientific invention? Honor House sold a pair of these wonder glasses for only $1 plus 25 cents shipping. With a name like Honor House, it had to be true. I ordered a pair. Alas, it was not true. The glasses did not allow you to look at the bones in your hands or beneath Milady’s clothing. Lightning did not zap out of your eyes when you looked through them. What a major gyp.

I blame the lack of truth on the pernicious influence of Madison Avenue. Surely a fine company like Honor House would not knowingly submit false advertising to a candid world. Don Draper had to be behind these misleading ads. As a newly minted teenager, I followed Samuel Coleridge’s theory to have a willing suspension of disbelief. I believed the ads. As Bloody Mary sang in South Pacific, “If you don’t have a dream/ How you gonna have a dream come true?” The ads were the stuff that dreams were made of.

There were many wonders advertised at the back of the comic books. For $1.50 you could get a phony arm cast complete with a sling. It looked like the real thing and would fit teenagers or adults. For a buck you could get a “Mr. Baldy Bigshot Skin Head Wig.” When you put it on “you will look several years older and get a million laughs.” Fortunately, I saved a dollar and obtained a natural skin head look courtesy of my maternal grandfather’s gene pool. You want funny? Get a pack of Onion Gum for 20 cents. It looks like normal gum but tastes like onions. Give a stick to your friends and watch the hilarity as they spit it out.

An all-time favorite that did work was the “Joy Buzzer.” You hid a secret buzzer in the palm of your hand. Then shake hands with an unsuspecting buddy. He will jump six feet in the air when the buzzer goes off, surprising him and entertaining you. Imagine the fun you could have with your own tube of $1 fake Vampire blood. “You never know when a Vampire will strike! Be ready with this realistic-looking Vampire blood and watch the girls swoon.” Like the chronically swooning Miss Pittypat Hamilton in “Gone with the Wind,” back in the ‘60s female teenage persons were more loving swoonful. Fake Vampire blood was just the thing to set them off.

Another classic gag was the tiny voice throwing instrument you hid inside your mouth. It came with instructions on how to become a ventriloquist. You can “throw your voice into trucks, behind doors, everywhere. Fool teachers, friends, and family.” What could be cooler? The ad featured a worker carrying a big box on his back with a voice coming out of the box yelling “Help! Let me out! Help!” Hours of hijinks ensue. Pro tip: This did not work.

For 50 cents you could get a real boomerang for target throwing. Guaranteed that “In case you miss, it comes right back to you, and Bingo! You are all set to fire again. More fun than a barrel of monkeys.” I could never get the boomerang to come back. I would throw it and it just hit the ground. It was considerably less fun than a barrel of monkeys. I was never quite sure how much fun a barrel of monkeys might be. Was the top on the barrel and the monkeys were confined inside?

If there was no top of the barrel, the monkeys would just climb out of the barrel leaving you to chase them down. That didn’t really seem like much fun either. Monkeys in a barrel is a pretty low bar for fun. Chasing monkeys was probably more fun than throwing a curved flat stick and then picking it off the ground.

Yelp Review: Don’t buy a boomerang.

The boomerang craze did spawn a great Australian song in 1962 called “My Boomerang Won’t Come Back” by the late great Charlie Drake. I could identify with the Mac, the hero of the song. Mac lamented “I’m a big disgrace to the Aborigine race/ My boomerang won’t come back.” Bigly sad.

Have we learned anything of use today? Once again, almost nothing. But if it saves one person fifty cents on a faulty boomerang it is worth it. As Marvin Gaye once sang: “Believe half of what you see/ Son, and none of what you hear.”

That goes double for anything contained in this column.

On March 5th, Fort Liberty's Provider's Cafe took part in the Philip A. Connelly army-wide competition between dining facilities.

Every day, their team of 92G (Cook and Culinary) soldiers prepared and honed their teamwork, talents, and organization in preparation for Tuesday's competition. Beginning at 5 a.m., the soldiers arrived and began their preparation for the day's event. Shortly after, Sgt. First Class Brown ran the troops through their morning formation and gave them an inspiring speech about their dedication, efforts thus far, and drive to prove that they were the best 92G the Army had to offer.

"I want them to enjoy themselves. This is their profession; this is what they do. This is culinary arts. It is an opportunity to show what they can do. But for them, it's just another day. They are always putting their best foot forward trying to be the best version of themselves and improve,” said Lt. Vuylsteke.

The morning started with breakfast and it was truly something to see. Fresh squeezed juice from pineapples, celery, and cucumbers was made available to all soldiers at the beginning of the line going through the facility. The well-known omelet station, scratch-made biscuits and carbs were at the beginning as is common in “warrior restaurants,” as they are coming to be called.
However, these were different.

Time, care and effort went into every step of the process the team at the Provider's Cafe took to ensure the highest quality food was made available to the soldiers who would be eating there.

Throughout the line, talk of their highly regarded French toast was abundant. There were sweet potato pancakes, fresh fruits, fresh yogurts, and a variety of cereals also present that far outdid the standard at most other warrior restaurants throughout the Army.

The shift lead and first cook of the team, Staff Sgt. Johnson and Sgt. McCrae, attributed their continual success to their communication and effective teamwork that ensured every member of their team knew their jobs and how to execute their roles. Their success depended on them supporting one another throughout the competition and daily process.

"Teamwork and making sure everyone did their jobs, but also picking each other up and helping," said Sgt. McCrae on his perspective on their what has led them to their current reputation for excellence. "But we do that on the daily. We came together and worked together to achieve that goal."

Lunchtime was where the team was able to really shine. The main courses being prime rib and fresh grilled chicken, the team outdid themselves in both their preparation and presentation of the menu items for that day's meal.

The item that stole the show was undoubtedly the red velvet cake made by Spc. De La Cruz. The dessert item was so delicious, even the competition graders couldn't help but have another piece.

Overall, the team of 92G at the Provider's Cafe excelled in their craft and was able to provide the highest quality of service and nutrition available to the soldiers who chose to eat there. This standard is one they exemplify daily, and their achievement as one of six finalists in the competition is evidence of that.

The winner won't be announced until later; however, they will be strong contenders for first place amongst the entire Army for their commitment to the tenets of the military, and their dedication to their craft as culinary artists.

Floyd Properties is celebrating its 73rd year of building new homes and neighborhoods in the Cumberland and surrounding counties. We are very pleased to offer our customers many options to have the home of their Dreams.

These new home neighborhoods are exceptional in location, design, amenities and livability. The floor plans we are offering feature wide open living areas with the kitchen, family room and dining with no walls, creating a sense of grand and spacious living.

Our most popular homes have two story family rooms with large glass doors and multiple levels of windows. Open, expansive, boundless, splendid and even gorgeous and majestic are words we are striving for in these houses.

The kitchens have features the family chef would appreciate and bathrooms that are bright with large windows, full glass shower enclosures, rain shower heads with dramatic open ceramic showers and beautiful bathtubs with ceramic tile all around the sides. The master bedroom closets are all wood custom designed and built.

Pot fillers, electric car charging stations, farm sinks, laminate and hardwood floors, custom designer hand railings, coffered ceilings, wainscoting, dramatic upscale inside trim, chair railing, large crown molding, enlarged base moldings, larger window and door casing and entry way accents, large design created columns and archway dramatic design enhance the magnificent impact of these features in each home.

An important part of our vision is to provide our customers locations in the North, South, East and West regions of our local area. The neighborhoods we offer our homes in are as important as the homes themselves. Walking trails, fishing ponds, nature trails, parks, playground equipment, mail stations and beautiful entrances are crucial to making our neighborhoods livable, walkable, safe and outstanding places to live close to shopping, schools and recreational activities.

Saddlebrook is our Southern Pines location on a wonderful golf course at Longleaf Country Club. Fairfield Farms is located on the North side of Fayetteville at the 295 exit, Cape Fear Crossings is near Cape Fear High School next to the Carter blueberry farm, Legacy and Westhaven are located in the Jack Britt school district next to Harris Teeter on Stoney Point Road and Kingston is a new neighborhood opening in 2025 located West near the new aquatic and recreational center in Hoke County near the hospital, shopping and schools.

Call us today at 910-423-6700 to visit one of our FIVE STAR locations in and around our community.

Music is often referred to as the universal language. Every culture across the world has a musical tradition all its own.

This international quality of music was something Fayetteville State University piano professor Dr. Amanda Virelles had a vision to celebrate in our own community, where so many different countries are represented.

Dr. Virelles was inspired by Fayetteville’s annual International Folk Festival and the celebration of rich traditions of culture in all its forms that it brought together. She began to imagine a similar festival that focused on music.

In 2023 FSU, with grant funding from the Arts Council of Fayetteville-Cumberland County, hosted a multi-day, multi-venue festival. In April of 2024, the 2nd Annual International Music Festival will bring together a variety of musicians to share the musical traditions of their countries of origin.

The festival will kick off on April 4 at 11 a.m. at Seabrook Auditorium on FSU’s campus, with a concert presented by FSU music faculty. The concert will include music by international and American composers. Following the Opening Concert, April 4-7 will be filled with concerts and events aimed at sharing music from around the world.

The festival will host several concerts at the Cumberland County Library Headquarters and in The Arts Council Gallery on Hay Street. Slated to perform are musicians originally from Uruguay, Cuba, Venezuela, Columbia, Czech Republic, Brazil, Korea, Russia, Ukraine, Argentina and Peru.

In addition to the concerts, there is an International Faculty/Student Fair on April 5 at 10 a.m. in the Randolph Jones Student Center at FSU, which will feature displays, performances and demonstrations for guests to explore. It will be an interactive and educational event.

In addition to the benefits of cultural celebration for the entire community, this festival also presents a unique learning opportunity for FSU music students.

As Dr. Virelles explains, the opportunity to travel to another country to learn music is a valuable one, but one that is not available to all students. This festival is an opportunity to “bring the work [of artists from around the world] to the students.”

Students will not only listen to the artists perform but will have the chance to learn from them directly. After the Faculty/Student Fair on April 5, there will be lectures and masterclasses presented by many of the featured performers.

Students will not only have the chance to be exposed to a variety of music but to learn directly from those musicians.

The Festival is made possible by funding from The Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County and the work of a committee comprised of FSU faculty, staff, and students: Amanda Virelles, Jerrita Waters, Joseph Spearman, Sondra Martin, Jeremy Fiebig, Deborah Vazquez, Shawn McNeill, Zahra Shekarkhar, Shane Booth, and Brittany Fuller.

Anyone in the community is invited to attend the events of the International Music Festival, and many events are free of charge. See below for a full breakdown of events, locations, and prices:

April 4:

11 a.m. Opening Concert-FSU Music Faculty at Seabrook Auditorium, FSU $10
4 p.m.-Duo Guitiano & Friends at Seabrook Auditorium, FSU FREE
7 p.m.-Carlos Feller, flute; Mary Chung, piano at Seabrook Auditorium, FSU FREE

April 5:

10 a.m.-International Faculty/Student Fair at Rudolph Jones Student Center, FSU FREE
4 p.m.-Julian Croatto, guitar; Alma Coefman, flute at Arts Council Gallery FREE
7 p.m.-Milan Rericha, clarinet; Kristina Henckel, piano at Seabrook Auditorium, FSU $10

April 6:

11 a.m.-Gonzalo Aguilar, piano; Rodrigo Quintana, violin at Cumberland County Library Headquarters FREE
4 p.m.-Marcos Machado, double bass at Cumberland County Library Headquarters FREE
7 p.m.-Night at the Opera Theatre at Seabrook Auditorium, FSU $10

April 7:

5 p.m.-Festival Closing Concert featuring Cuban opera star Eglise Gutierrez at Seabrook Auditorium, FSU $10

To purchase tickets, visit the following site: https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/4386/seabrook-auditorium-fayetteville-state-university?performance_id=48277453&country=US&language=en

All events are free to Fayetteville State University students.

In a poignant celebration of faith and unity, Fort Liberty will host a sunrise service on March 31 at the Main Post Parade Field. This unique event will see nine chapels from Fort Liberty converging into a single worship experience, symbolizing the collective spirit of the military community as they come together to celebrate Easter.

This event welcomes all, urging attendees to bring their chairs and linger after the service for light refreshments. The atmosphere is not just one of solemn reverence but a coming together of diverse Christian denominations within the military community.

Chaplain Col. James Foster, a key organizer of the event, expressed his enthusiasm for the Easter season, stating, "I am excited to celebrate the Easter season because it unites Christians together to recognize the Resurrection of Christ and what He offers to give to those who place their trust in Him, and that we too will live with Him eternally."

This sentiment captures the essence of the event – a celebration of unity and faith within the military community.

As attendees gather on this hallowed ground, the words of Matthew 28:1-10 and Mark 16:1-8, embedded in the ceremony, will resonate. These scriptures, encapsulating the account of the Resurrection, serve as the foundation of the Easter celebration. In Matthew, the angel proclaims, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; He has risen, just as He said."
In his gospel, Mark describes the awe and fear that gripped the women at the empty tomb, with the angel instructing them, "Don't be alarmed. You are looking for Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid Him."

These verses encapsulate the core message of Easter – the triumph of life over death, of hope over despair. As the military community at Fort Liberty comes together to observe this sacred sunrise service, these words will guide the reflections and prayers, fostering a collective sense of gratitude and renewal.
Access to Fort Liberty is a prerequisite for attendance, ensuring the security and cohesion of the event. Those interested in joining can obtain a visitor pass by visiting https://bit.ly/3wN2g72. The process is streamlined, and free parking is available for all attendees.

The event signifies the spiritual bonding within the military community and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by service members. The Main Post Parade Field, a stage for various military ceremonies, now witnesses a different kind of ceremony — one that transcends divisions, denominations, and ranks.

Fort Liberty, a bastion of discipline and order, will momentarily transform into a space where the shared faith of the military community takes center stage. This sunrise service acknowledges the spiritual resilience that sustains service members through the challenges they face in the line of duty. "All are welcome" is the resounding call, and as the Main Post Parade Field becomes a tapestry of diverse uniforms, a sense of camaraderie prevails. The sunrise, symbolic of a new day and a fresh beginning, aligns seamlessly with the themes of Easter – a celebration of rebirth, redemption, and the unwavering hope that unites Christians worldwide.

The sunrise service at Fort Liberty promises a unique Easter celebration and a testament to the enduring spirit of faith within the military community. It is a reminder that the shared commitment to faith provides a foundation for unity and resilience regardless of differences or duty stations. So, as the first light of dawn breaks over Fort Liberty, it will illuminate not only the Parade Field but also the collective spirit of the military community, bound together by the timeless message of Easter – the triumph of life, the promise of hope, and the enduring power of faith.

As attendees disperse to their respective chapels, continuing services allow for a more intimate and focused exploration of the Easter message within the individual faith communities. The various chapels, each with a unique ambiance and tradition, offer a meaningful extension of the sunrise service, fostering a deeper connection with the Resurrection theme.

The chapels are spread strategically across Fort Liberty, providing convenient locations for service members and their families to continue their Easter observance. The timing of the services is designed to accommodate various schedules, ensuring that all military community members can participate and experience the spiritual enrichment that Easter brings. For more information about any of the services offered, please call the Religious Support Office at 910-396-1121 or visit http://www.liberty.army.mil/
Here are the details for the post-sunrise services:

All American Chapel
Sun 10 a.m. Sunday School
Sun 11 a.m. Worship Service** Live Stream
Thu 6 p.m. Men's Bible Study (Spanish) 2nd and 4th Thu

Airborne Artillery Memorial Chapel
Sun 10:30 a.m. HolyTrinity Anglican
Sun 11:45 a.m. Anglican Sunday School

JFK Memorial Chapel
Sun 10 a.m. Bible Study
Sun 11 a.m. Faith Community Fellowship
Tue 12 p.m. Protestant Bible Study

Pope Chapel
Sun 9:30 a.m. Worship Service
Sun 10:30 a.m. Sunday School
Wed 6 p.m. Bible Study

Gordon Elementary
Sun 10 a.m. Linden Oaks Fellowship

Main Post Chapel
Sun 10 a.m. Worship Service
Sun 11 a.m. Bible Study

Womack Chapel
Sun 9 a.m. Worship Service
Tue 12 p.m. Bible Study

Smith Lake MWR Park
Sun 10 a.m. Outdoor Life Church (May-Nov.) Live Stream
Sun. 11 a.m. Winter Hours
(Dec.-April)

Wood Memorial Chapel
Sun 9:45 a.m. Sunday School
Sun 11 a.m. Gospel Service Live Stream
Tue 6:30 p.m. Virtual Bible Study

"No competitions, just commas." That is the mindset behind the upcoming Future Rich Aunties Business Conference, which is set to take place from April 11th to April 13th here in Fayetteville. Hosted by local business owner Sylvia Glanton, the event aims to educate interested individuals on business strategies and propagate success and collaboration between entrepreneurs.

The 2nd Annual Future Rich Aunties Business Conference will continue with its stated purpose of connecting like-minded individuals with experienced business owners to aid in securing prosperity for our city's local business environment.

The Future Rich Aunties Business Conference will seek to conglomerate and compile business owners' knowledge in different sectors to help better guide themselves and create a future of sustainable success for aspiring business owners and entrepreneurs alike.

"My thought process here coming back to Fayetteville from Atlanta was noticing there wasn't that same sense of ‘togetherness.’ When I was in Atlanta, I was exposed to people driving Rolls Royce, G-wagons, and new Mercedes, and they were black people. I didn't see that growing up in Fayetteville. So I wanted to create the Future Rich Aunties to bring that here. Our three pillars are innovation, technology and operations,” Glanton said.

With these stated goals in mind, Glanton and her associates have redoubled their efforts in organizing and creating an event that will be both entertaining and educational.

"The purpose of the event is to create a space where women can relate to one another. Traditionally, women couldn't be in this space. But now we are in this place, and we have common ground as wives, mothers, students, teachers. We want to educate and empower,” said Glanton.

The conference begins on April 11 with a seminar on the strategies and methods used by successful local business owners that they have utilized to grow their businesses and achieve financial freedom through entrepreneurship.

Amber Little will be the main speaker and guide the audience through her mindset and approach to business and continued sustainability.

Afterward, there will be a networking break for those in attendance before the night ends with closing remarks in preparation for the next day.

On April 12, the morning will start at 8:30 a.m. at the I-Fit fitness center for a workout with those attending. Next, the event will move to Blissful Alchemists for two more seminars from Charlene Richardson on government contracting and Amber Little on marketing advertising and content creation before breaking for a 1 p.m. lunch at Pierro's Italian Bistro on Hay Street.

Then, it's back to Blissful Alchemists for the final two seminars of the day, presented by Tamiko Matthews and Sylvia Glanton herself, on real estate investment and business operations, respectively.
This is where the event will end for those who have purchased general admission tickets. However, those who have purchased VIP admission to the event will then move to The Loft for an evening of relaxation, massages, catering, and conversation until 10 p.m.

The event will conclude on April 13 with a day full of excitement. From meetings with vendors and sponsors to a fashion show, the event will be filled with networking opportunities, awards, and a talk on business financial essentials before closing out with a message from Glanton.

"Our long-term goal for Future Rich Aunties, after this event, is to convert it over to a non-profit so we can give back to those in the network and community who are business owners. We want to be able to create grants, get access to funding for those people and partner with the city. That's my five-year strategic plan for Future Rich Aunties,” she said.

For more information on the event, purchasing tickets, and vendor/sponsorship applications, please visit the Future Rich Aunties website at https://www.futurerichaunties.com. Glanton looks forward to meeting all in attendance and promises it will be well worth the time and investment.

General admission tickets are $299, and VIP tickets cost $599. Tickets can be purchased on the website.

Get ready for a delightful musical interlude during your lunch break. On Thursday, March 14th at noon, the Arts Council of Fayetteville will be hosting a captivating Lunchtime Chamber Music Concert: Songs Without Words.

The Camellia Chamber Music Project is set to showcase the talents of Carlos Castilla (guitar), Megan Kenny (violin), and Holland Phillips (viola), all local artists. They will be presenting an exciting program of instrumental chamber music that draws inspiration from vocal literature.

The program, known as "Songs Without Words," will showcase compositions by Brahms, Schubert, Manuel de Falla and Johann Kaspar Mertz. This captivating program of chamber music will include unique adaptations of vocal pieces that have never been experienced before.

Get ready to be enthralled by this extraordinary collection of instrumental music. The primary goal of the Camellia Chamber Music Project is to offer and endorse live chamber music shows in Fayetteville and the neighboring communities.

Their objective is to captivate and motivate the audience by presenting a diverse repertoire of chamber music through live performances and educational initiatives.

The project strives to introduce audiences to the beauty and intricacy of chamber music while fostering an appreciation for this art form.

Through their performances and outreach efforts, they aim to inspire and engage individuals of all ages in the joy of chamber music. To learn more about them and their upcoming events, follow them on Facebook at https://rb.gy/trl7i1.

The Lunchtime Chamber Music Concert: Songs Without Words performance is free and open to the public and is supported by a grant from the Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County and the North Carolina Arts Council. Learn more at https://rb.gy/wjmdh9, by calling 910-323-1776, or by visiting the Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County at 301 Hay St.

Fayetteville is the proud home of several women-owned businesses. March is Women’s History Month, a perfect time to highlight some of those businesses. Ta’Tianna Bonilla, lovingly known locally as the Balloon Lady and a Spring Lake native, has added herself to the long list of women business owners in the city with the opening of her store. I Love Balloons is located at 2622 Hope Mills Road Suite 112, open Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday by Appointment Only.

Normally, balloon art is reserved for special occasions and requires placing an order early. Bonilla is bringing the craft of balloon art to everyday life. The concept is unique and one that she hopes will be successful and provide customers with an experience.

“I wanted to do something outside of the normal. I wanted to display balloon art. You can always run to Party City, Family Dollar, and even Dollar Tree to purchase balloons. We don’t have many places where you can purchase balloon art. I want my customers to feel like they are walking through an exhibit of Balloons. I want to be able to provide more than just a regular helium bundle of balloons. I want you to have an experience,” Bonilla said of why she chose to open her store.

Bonilla has been working with balloons for the majority of her life.

“I’ve literally loved balloons since I was a child. I remember always saying ‘I Love Balloons’ in high school and I had them taped to my bedroom wall. A simple balloon can really change the whole room. Balloons can bring happiness to any situation. No matter the age or gender, balloons will always bring a smile to someone’s face. I love making people happy and bringing smiles. That’s the reason why I picked this field. I love balloons and I know others do too,” she said.

The Balloon Lady didn’t actually get her start until tragedy struck a friend.

She explained, “I was asked to decorate my friend's son's gravesite. He was only 3 years old when he passed. I decided to try this balloon column and at the time it wasn’t the greatest. Everyone loved it! The balloons really brought that family so many smiles just based off that single balloon column. Even during a very sad time, balloons brought joy smiles and comfort.”

There are big plans for I Love Balloons. Bonilla, a faithful Christian and proud member of True Vine Ministries, has faith that her business is destined to prosper and as a savvy business owner, has a plan for the expansion of the business.

“The long-term goal for my business is to become a balloon distributor. Within the next 3 to 5 years, I would love to have a warehouse and we can distribute balloons throughout the whole world. I want to be able to set my family up for generational wealth. My family has been the backbone of my business … Mom, Xavier, Corrisa, Chisa, Angel, Ebony … When other balloon artists think of balloons for their business I want them to think of my company. I’m 35 so I know I won’t be able to twist balloons for the rest of my life but I can be the balloon plug worldwide,” she said. For now, The Balloon Lady is excited about stepping into a brick-and-mortar and serving a community she cares for.

“Being a woman in business is absolutely amazing. I took my leap of faith and left my job 3 years ago this July. I remember talking to some of my higher-ups and explaining what I wanted to do. I know they thought ‘this lady is crazy leaving her job to do balloons!’ So to open my store was a dream. I can’t even to begin to explain. I’m a black woman from Spring Lake who went to Spring Lake Middle School and I own a balloon shop. I have clients that range from the single mother doing their children’s first birthday parties to Mr. Rick Hendricks's automotive corporate location in Charlotte, North Carolina. God has been absolutely amazing when it comes to blessing this Christian woman-owned business,” Bonilla said.
For more information on I Love Balloons visit their Facebook page,

https://www.facebook.com/BalloonLadyTati, and remember “There’s always an occasion to order balloons.”

Many churches in the area are providing sunrise services to commemorate Easter, which falls on Sunday, March 31st. This religious holiday is being celebrated by numerous congregations as they gather early in the morning to worship.

Joining together at dawn, believers come together to witness the beauty of the sunrise while reflecting on the significance of this sacred day. These sunrise services offer a unique and spiritual way to start Easter Sunday, allowing individuals to connect with their faith and embrace the joy and hope that Easter brings.

Rogers & Breece Funeral Home
500 Ramsey-7 a.m. A light breakfast will be served after the service. 910-483-2191

The Fayetteville Church
1700 Elliot Farm Rd-6:45 a.m. Followed by Easter Sunday Service and egg hunt. 910-488-4999

Tabernacle Baptist Church
2701 Gillis Hill Rd-7:30 a.m.-Breakfast immediately after at the church. tbcrockfish@gmail.com

Faymount Baptist Church
3663 Cumberland Rd-6:45 a.m. Followed by breakfast. 910-425-7108

Haymount United Methodist Church: 7:00 a.m., 1700 Fort Bragg Road.

Massey Hill Baptist Church
1027 Southern Ave-6:30 a.m. Followed by Easter Breakfast. 910-323-0808

Raeford United Methodist Church
308 N. Main Street, Raeford- 7 a.m. Followed by breakfast. 910-875-2111

River Community Church
777 Elliot Bridge Rd-6:45 a.m. 910-867-4968

St. James Lutheran Church
1424 Morganton Rd-7 a.m. Followed by breakfast. 910-484-8052

St. Patrick's Day presents the perfect opportunity to try authentic Irish cuisine as well as foods and beverages that have become associated strictly with the holiday (like green beer). It is likely someone you know will be cooking corned beef and cabbage this St. Patrick's Day. But what if you are among those who just doesn't fancy the salted and pickled flavoring of this familiar favorite?

"Zesty Braised Beef with New Potatoes" isn't exactly corned beef, but it can be a worthy alternative. It is warm, filling, and flavorful, and can be just the thing to eat on a chilly March day. What's more, this rich beef can pair well with a dark stout like Guinness. Enjoy this recipe, courtesy of "The Healthy Slow Cooker" (Robert Rose) by Judith Finlayson.

Zesty Braised Beef with New Potatoes, Serves 8

Ingredients:
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 ounces chunk pancetta, preferably hot pancetta, diced
2 pounds trimmed stewing beef, cut into 1-inch cubes and patted dry
2 onions, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon cracked black peppercorns
1/2 cup dry white wine
2 cups chicken stock
2 pounds small new potatoes, scrubbed and thinly sliced (about 30 tiny ones)
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, dissolved in 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/4 cup finely chopped parsley leaves.

Method:
1. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of the oil over medium-high heat. Add pancetta and cook, stirring, until nicely browned, about 3 minutes. Transfer to slow cooker stoneware (3.5 to 5 quart sized).
2. Add beef to skillet, in batches, and cook, stirring until browned, about 4 minutes per batch. Transfer to stoneware as completed.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan. Add onions and cook, stirring, until softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic, thyme, salt and peppercorns and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Add wine, bring to a boil and boil, stirring and scraping up brown bits from the bottom of the pan for 2 minutes. Add stock and potatoes and bring to a boil. Simmer for 2 minutes.
4. Transfer to stoneware. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until potatoes are tender. Stir in cayenne solution. Cover and cook on high for 10 minutes.

Transfer to a server dish and garnish with parsley. Serve with a big platter of roasted carrots.

Pickleball, once a relatively unknown sport, has skyrocketed in popularity in recent years. What started as a casual backyard game has now transformed into a full-fledged sport with its own leagues, tournaments, and even professional players. The growth of pickleball as a sport can be attributed to several factors.

First and foremost, pickleball is incredibly accessible. Unlike other sports that require expensive equipment or specialized facilities, all you need to play pickleball is a paddle, a ball, and a net. This affordability factor has made it easy for people of all ages and backgrounds to pick up the sport and give it a try. Additionally, pickleball can be played on any flat surface, both indoors and outdoors, making it even more accessible to communities around the world.

The ease of learning pickleball is yet another reason for its popularity. The rules of the game are simple and straightforward, making it easy for beginners to grasp the basics in no time. Also, the social aspect of pickleball cannot be overlooked. With its smaller court size and slower pace compared to other racket sports, pickleball encourages interaction and camaraderie among players.

FTCC unveiled five brand new outdoor, lighted pickleball courts that officially opened in November 2023 and are sure to attract players from far and wide. They have permanent lines and nets. This means that players can enjoy a hassle-free game without the need to constantly set up and take down equipment. Lights allow the game to be enjoyed day or night. With FTCC's new pickleball courts, the sport is set to become even more accessible to the local community. Whether a seasoned player looking for some friendly competition or a beginner eager to learn the ropes, these courts offer the perfect setting for honing your skills.

The FTCC Foundation is organizing the inaugural pickleball competition on the recently constructed illuminated pickleball courts situated at the FTCC campus on Saturday, March 23. This tournament will follow a round-robin format and will accommodate up to 96 participants, competing in men's, women's, and mixed doubles categories. Players have the option to participate alongside a teammate or be assigned one.

The skill levels for the tournament will range from 2.5 (Beginner) to 3.5 (Intermediate). Players under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during the tournament. The matches will be played to a score of 11, with a requirement to win by 2 points. Each player will have a minimum of 3 games guaranteed. The playoff games will be played to a score of 15, with a requirement to win by 1 point.

Each participant will be given a protective cover for their paddle. The teams that secure the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd positions in each event will be awarded a medal.

The courts will be open for players to warm up 15 minutes before each division starts.
The funds raised from the competition will be used to support scholarships and programs for students at FTCC.

Players have the option to participate in either one or two events. The initial event costs $35, while the second event requires a fee of $15 per individual. Participants are required to sign up beforehand. To register visit: https://one.bidpal.net/2024ftccpickleball/welcome. For more information, contact FTCC Foundation at 910-678-8441 or foundation@faytechcc.edu.

The schedule for the tournament will be:
Women’s Doubles – 9:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Mixed Doubles – 11:45 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Men’s Doubles – 2:30 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.

The tournament will take place at Fayetteville Technical Community College, 2201 Hull Rd. If there is inclement weather, a rain date will be announced.

Fayetteville Technical Community College has recognized the growing popularity of pickleball and decided to offer pickleball classes for all skill levels. Whether you're a beginner looking to learn the basics or an advanced player aiming to refine your skills, FTCC has got you covered.

The next beginner class starts on March 9. For more information visit: http://tinyurl.com/356jv9f4. So grab a paddle, hit the court, and get ready to experience the thrill of pickleball at FTCC!

St. Patrick's Day is a widely celebrated holiday that originated in Ireland but has since gained popularity around the world, especially in America. This festive occasion, which falls on March 17th every year, is a time for people to come together and celebrate Irish culture, heritage, and of course, the patron saint of Ireland, St. Patrick himself. The holiday is marked by parades, parties, and a sea of green. What sets St. Patrick's Day apart from other holidays is its universal appeal. You don't have to be Irish to join in the fun; everyone is welcome to partake in the festivities.

The Origin of St. Patrick’s Day

In Ireland, St. Patrick's Day has been observed for centuries as a religious feast day to commemorate the arrival of Christianity in the country. It was traditionally a more solemn occasion, with families attending church services and participating in quiet celebrations. However, over time, it has evolved into a more exuberant affair with lively parades and festivities taking place across the country.

This holiday is named after St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, who is said to have brought Christianity to the country in the 5th century. St. Patrick's Day is celebrated on March 17th, which is believed to be the date of his death.

St. Patrick is a figure shrouded in mystery and legend. Born in the late 4th century in Roman Britain, he was captured by Irish pirates and brought to Ireland as a slave. It was during his time in captivity that he found solace in his faith and became deeply devoted to Christianity. After escaping and returning to his homeland, he felt a calling to return to Ireland and spread the message of Christianity to the pagan population.

St. Patrick's mission in Ireland was not an easy one. He faced opposition from local chieftains and druids who were resistant to the new religion. However, through his perseverance and unwavering faith, he was able to convert many people to Christianity and establish churches and monasteries throughout the country. His legacy lives on today.

St. Patrick's Day traditions and symbols

One of the most iconic symbols of St. Patrick's Day is the shamrock, which is a three-leafed clover. According to legend, St. Patrick used the shamrock to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity to the Irish people. Today, wearing or displaying a shamrock on St. Patrick's Day is a way to show your Irish pride.

The leprechaun is another key symbol of St. Patrick's Day. These mischievous little creatures are said to be shoemakers who guard pots of gold at the end of rainbows. Leprechauns are often depicted wearing green hats and coats, adding to the association between this color and the holiday itself.

Of course, the tradition that stands out the most is the practice of wearing green on St. Patrick's Day. Green has long been associated with Ireland, known as the "Emerald Isle" due to its lush green landscapes. Wearing green on this day is not only a sign of celebration but also a way to show pride in Irish heritage. Those who fail to wear green on St. Patrick's Day may face playful pinches from fellow revelers as a reminder to join in on the festivities.

Mark your calendars and get ready to embrace the spirit of St. Patrick's Day! Whether you're in Ireland or America, this holiday offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in a rich cultural tradition while having a fantastic time with friends and loved ones.

Two fantastic community gatherings that you won't want to miss during the St. Patrick's Day festivities:

March 15-March 17:

St. Patrick's Day Weekend at Dirtbag Ales Brewery & Taproom, 5435 Corporation Dr, Hope Mills

Enjoy new beer releases, green beer, special St. Patrick's Day swag available for purchase, food trucks and live music. For more information visit, http://tinyurl.com/4ecmz8c6

March 16-17:

Irish You Would Downtown Fayetteville 2024

Get ready for a downtown Bar Crawl. Each participating business will have free swag and goodies while supplies last. To see the participating locations visit http://tinyurl.com/ymtec6fj

March 17:

St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at Paddy’s Irish Pub, 2608 Raeford Rd, Fayetteville.
Paddy's will have Comedy and a DJ in the Church side and live music, including Paddy & Bill, on the pub side. Also enjoy drink specials, a selfie station, party favors, treats and food. For more information visit, http://tinyurl.com/db372d2k.

The Oscars are coming up! According to the Academy of Motion Picture and Sciences website, the story of why their most coveted trophy is called the Oscar comes from Academy librarian and event executive director Margaret Herrick who thought the statue resembled her Uncle Oscar. The name stuck. The Academy Awards are the most prestigious honor given during the year of Filmmaking with the first awards given in 1929. Best Picture has always been the top prize. Here are this year’s nominees and my favorites.

AMERICAN FICTION starring Jeffery Wright, Sterling K Brown, Tracee Ellis Ross and Erika Alexander tells the story of Monk (Wright), a frustrated novelist who is fed up with the establishment that profits from Black entertainment. To prove his point, he uses a pen name to write an outlandish book of his own which propels him to the heart of hypocrisy and the madness he claims to disdain. This film is hilarious and powerful. I’m so glad that it is nominated so that it gets noticed by more audiences.

ANATOMY OF A FALL is directed by French filmmaker Justine Triet, the only female nominated for Best Director this year. The film centers around a woman who is suspected of her husband's murder and their blind son who faces a moral dilemma as the sole witness. This is not just a courtroom drama. It is a powerful story about the legal system itself and the mystery that follows a relationship and family. With its twists and turns through storytelling, it’s no surprise that it is nominated as well as its talented director.

BARBIE, directed beautifully by Greta Gerwig. Beautifully. Margot Robbie plays Barbie while Ryan Gosling plays her Ken. Barbie and Ken get a chance to go to the real world where they soon discover the joys and perils of living among humans. Many people I have talked to who haven't seen the film are surprised when I tell them that this film is not a children’s film, it is for an older generation that grew up with Barbie as a symbol.

Barbie learns what it means to be a person and not just a perfect plastic doll. This film honors women and I love that for women all over. To add, the business side of me knows that this was a great move on Mattel, the maker of Barbie, in showing their new stances on womanhood.

THE HOLDOVERS stars Paul Giamatti and Da'Vine Joy Randolph. Giamatti plays a curmudgeonly instructor at a prep school who remains on campus during Christmas break to sit with a handful of adventurous students with nowhere to go. He soon forms a bond with a smart but damaged boy, and with the school's head cook (Randolph) who has her own recent tragedy. The film is sweet and heartbreaking at the same time. Giamatti and Randolph make this film worth watching with their award-winning performances. Do not be surprised if there is a trophy in Randolph’s hand come Oscar night.

KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON, joins the list of many masterpieces directed by Martin Scorsese. The film stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Lily Gladstone and Robert De Niro. Love crosses paths with the worst betrayal in this story of Mollie Burkhart (Gladstone) and her husband (DiCaprio). Based on the best-selling novel, Bukhart is a member of the Osage Nation, who tries to save her community from a spree of murders fueled by oil and greed. This is an important American film that centers around the formation of the FBI. Lily Gladstone gives a “sure to win” performance.

Bradley Cooper follows up his directing debut of A Star Is Born with the masterfully done MAESTRO. The film stars Cooper and Carey Mulligan. On the verge of securing a golden opportunity, American conductor Leonard Bernstein begins a rollercoaster-like relationship with actress Felicia Montealegre, upturning their lives. Maestro touches on who we think we are meant to be professionally and privately and who we really are.

This film is beautiful and a must-see for any musical theatre fan. This is one of my personal favorites of the year. Up until seeing Oppenheimer, I believed that Maestro would take most of the awards. Steven Speilberg, Martin Scorese and Cooper produced the film.

OPPENHEIMER, Christopher Nolan's masterpiece, centers around J. Robert Oppenheimer (Cillian Murphy) and his struggles of working on the top-secret Manhattan Project. Oppenheimer and a team of scientists spend years developing and designing the atomic bomb. Their work comes to fruition on July 16, 1945, as they witness the world's first nuclear explosion, forever changing the course of history. With stunning visual effects, photography and sound, Nolan doesn’t hold back. Nolan’s previous films including Batman trilogy, Inception and Interstellar have prepared him for this mature part of his career.
Murphy, Emily Blunt and Robert Downey Jr all give close to perfect performances. Murphy and Downey will win Oscars for Best Actor and Best Supporting Actor as well as Nolan for Best Director. Nolan gives us his best both in storytelling and visual effects. This is his year.

Celine Song’s PAST LIVES tells the story of Nora and Hae Sung, two deeply connected childhood friends, who are wrest apart after Nora's family emigrates from South Korea. Decades later, they are reunited for one fateful week as they confront destiny, love and the choices that make a life. Song shows us the struggle of relationships that are separated by forces not in our control. Past Lives is a great lesson of humanity in a small independent film. This film is an important one, but was not one of my favorites on the Oscar list. Speaking of favorites…

Yorgos Lanthimos, director of The Favourite, The Lobster and The Killing of a Sacred Deer brings us POOR THINGS starring Emma Stone as a woman brought back to life by a scientist played by Willem Dafoe. Stone’s character runs off with a lawyer (Mark Ruffalo) on a whirlwind adventure across the continents of the Old World. Free from the prejudices of her times, she grows steadfast in her purpose to stand for equality and liberation.

I love Poor Things. It gives us a glimpse of the realization of how hard the world is through the eyes of a misunderstood, childlike creature. It is our generation's Frankenstein. But please don’t think for one second that it is scary. It is rather hilarious. Stone is amazing in this picture. I am rooting for her to win Best Actress every time she is nominated.

Lanthimos is such an original and bold filmmaker, using fish-eye lenses and mixing a few modern-futuristic elements in a period piece. I love his use of black and white while also using bright colors.

THE ZONE OF INTEREST. This is the most important film of the year with Oppenheimer very close. From English director Jonathan Glazer, the film centers around Rudolf Höss, the head of the horrid Nazi concentration camp Auschwitz, and his wife, Hedwig. As they strive to build a dream life for their family in a house and garden next to the camp, we can only see the horrors of the camp from the top of the walls. Most films we see of the Holocaust period are shot black & white or gloomy. Glazer shows us the irony of bright colors.

The Nazis are living the perfect life on the backs of slaves right next door and it's disturbing. Another element very noticeable is the use of sound. This film should win for Best Sound because without it, much like the music in Jaws, you don’t “see” the full effect. The sound makes this film even more powerful and heartbreaking than it already is. This film shows us how easily we can normalize our lives when there is suffering happening right under our noses. The Zone of Interest will win Best International Picture, an award given to films not made in the United States.

Even though this writer feels that Zone of Interest should win Best Picture of the year for its global importance, historical warning and above all its original filmmaking, Oppenheimer will more than likely win for many of the same reasons. As said before, Oppenheimer is Nolan’s masterpiece and has won every other major picture award this year. The film has a very defining story of America.

The 96th Academy Awards will take place on Sunday, March 10th at 7 p.m. on ABC. Check your streaming apps and check Cameo Art House Theatre movie listings for possible reshowings
of the nominees.

The well-loved and long-awaited All American Races return on March 23.

After virtual marathons during the pandemic, the All American Races were opened back up to in-person races last year with an excitingly large turnout. For 2024, Fort Liberty is hosting a 5k and a half marathon with hopes of surpassing last year’s participants and community participation.

Unlike typical marathons that send you through cities or countryside, the All American Races send you past historical landmarks all on Fort Liberty, most notably the 82nd Airborne Division War Memorial Museum. Runners are offered unique courses to showcase Fort Liberty’s infrastructure and facilities that have been carefully curated since the start of Fort Liberty’s All American Races in 2014. They’ve kept their dream of keeping the community happy and healthy through all the races they’ve done in the past decade.

To help encourage new participants and experienced runners alike, all runners will receive a t-shirt, race bib, custom race medal, and a beer/beverage of their choice. After the race, there will be a bounce house for the children to enjoy along with all the entertainment and post-race activities planned. Not only will the kids have something to enjoy, but everyone can enjoy snacks and performances from the 82nd Airborne Division Rock Band.

These races serve as a wonderful celebration of personal accomplishments and a great opportunity for the surrounding community to get involved and work together toward a shared goal.

Amanda Cahill, the Special Events/Run Cell Coordinator for Fort Liberty’s Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation, is excited to hold another in-person marathon after being virtual.
“It’s been great getting the community back together, having the atmosphere, and everyone coming to support and have a great time at the event. It’s been amazing,” she said. “Something that we’re bringing back this year is the Memorial Mile. That is a mile that's lined with soldiers' photos and American flags along the course to honor our fallen service members. We do this in collaboration with the Survivor Outreach Program. We believe it's important to pay tribute to our fallen soldiers and remember their sacrifice. That's always something really cool that's on the route to see. They’ll also pass by the JFK Special Warfare Museum.”

When asked about volunteer opportunities, Cahill responded, “We always love volunteers. We encourage people to come out and volunteer. We have different positions at the start and finish line, they can help pass out medals at the end, and we have water and food at the end that they can help pass out. On the courses, we have our water stations where they can help pass out water. That’s always a great help and we’re always looking for volunteers. If you just want to come out and support and not run, we encourage people to come and cheer on our runners.”

No need to worry if you can’t make it to this event, Fort Liberty holds an annual Ten-Miler in November and a Family Fun Run that starts in April along with Mud Runs!

Running is monumental for good physical health —

strengthening your heart, creating stronger bones and joints, and improving sleep quality. Who wouldn’t jump at the opportunity to run a marathon? Though it seems daunting at first, running a marathon can show you just how capable you are and help set tangible goals.

On top of being great for physical well-being, running marathons is wonderful for maintaining a healthy mental landscape. Running in general increases endorphins and leaves you feeling accomplished and happy. Runners often see improvements in their mood, self-esteem, and overall health and endurance. Now imagine those great benefits mixed with the pride and excitement of completing a race as a team and community. Numerous studies even show that running, specifically long-distance like a marathon, can increase your life span from all the amazing work it does for your heart.

The half marathon will start at 7 a.m. and is $75 for active duty or retired military personnel and $85 for civilians. All runners who complete it within the allotted 4-hour period will receive a finisher medal. Half marathon participants must be 16 years of age or older.

Both races will award the top three men, women, and wheelchair athletes along with age group and team awards. The award ceremony will be at 9 a.m. on race day. Both the 5k and a half marathon are set to start and end at the Main Post Parade Field in Fort Liberty.

The All-American 5k race will begin at 7:20 a.m. The registration fee for active duty or retired military members is $30, and $40 for civilians. The 5k race is open to walkers and strollers, and children in strollers can participate free of charge but will not receive a medal or t-shirt unless they are registered runners.

Runners can come as early as 6 a.m. on race day. The National Anthem will play at 6:52 a.m. Be prepared for major road closures starting at 5 a.m. Parking will be located at Womack Army Medical Center for all runners, spectators, and volunteers.

To participate, runners can register online or attend the packet pick-up in person. All registered runners will receive a packet that contains a race bib, participant shirt, and a tag to get you a free beer or drink of the runner’s choosing. Packet pick-up will be held on March 22 between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. at the Iron Mike Conference Center on Fort Liberty. If you are unable to pick up your packet, you can have someone get it for you if they have a copy of your valid Government-issued ID.

If you are unable to pick up your award on race day, it will be mailed to your home address within 30 days after the final results are posted. Keep in mind that runner packets cannot be delivered.
If you’re a civilian looking to get on post, you can acquire a visitor’s pass at https://bit.ly/4adczjd.

For more information, race routes, volunteer opportunities, and/or to register, visit https://liberty.armymwr.com/programs/all-american-races 

“A baby. His parents: dead. But he lives. He is the boy who lives. He has a scar. On his forehead. Shaped like…you know. You get it? You are familiar with this boy? Well. Forget about him. This story isn’t about him,” the narrator begins in the opening of Puffs or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic. You all know the story of Harry Potter and the house of Gryffindor, but do you know the story of Wayne and the Puffs?

Puffs, written by Matt Cox, is a comical spoof about children attempting to survive seven years of magic school at Hogwarts. It draws from both the books and movies and the Puffs, inspired by the under-appreciated house Hufflepuff, are a group of kind-hearted, devoted misfits who harbor a fondness for badgers. This brilliant and innovative play never fails to provide a moment of laughter, offering a fresh perspective on a well-known journey.

New Fire Theatre is scheduled to showcase the One Act Edition of Young Wizards of Puffs on March 21, 22 and 23. New Fire Theatre is a part of the Capitol Encore Academy High School. The high school of The Capitol Encore Academy opened in August 2022, located at 200 Mason Street. Brian Adam Kline, also the high school’s theater teacher, serves as the artistic director of the theater company.

Kline started out at the Capitol Encore Academy Elementary School as the theater teacher and founded the Chameleon Children’s Theatre before moving to the high school. He has also done children's theater with Cape Fear Regional Theatre, Sweet Tea Shakespeare and co-founded the Glee and Gate education programs at the Gilbert Theater.

New Fire Theatre Company started doing shows last year and is now in its second season. This year the theater has already performed She Kills Monsters and Peter Pan. Kline shares his hopes for the theater and the kids involved.

“All of my actors and backstage artists are very intelligent, talented and shaping to be really good people. I want the theater to be a place for them to continue to be really great artists in their craft, school and community. The community should keep an eye on the boldness coming out of our space; think black box teen theater.”

Puffs is an ideal choice for a teenage theater company that operates in a black box setting. The number of actors in the cast can be adjusted. This production features a versatile ensemble cast, with a small group of main characters and the remaining actors taking on multiple roles. New Fire Theatre has a cast of eleven, all of whom attend the Capitol Encore High School.

This performance will require all participants to utilize a considerable amount of imagination in devising various technical elements, such as a bird that appears out of nowhere, a floating feather, and seemingly self-opening doors. Puffs will truly test the creativity of any technician and present an enjoyable yet challenging task. The crew for the production also consists of high school students, including the stage manager, assistant stage manager, and tech.

Kline, up until now, has directed all the plays performed by New Fire Theatre. For Puffs, he decided to collaborate with Marc de la Concha. When asked why he decided to bring someone else in to direct, Kline said, “I have wanted to work with Cape Fear Regional Theatre’s Marc de la Concha for years and when we talked about Puffs, it was a perfect fit for Marc to be our first guest artist. He's a great director, actor and friend.”

Concha has been the Director of Education at CFRT for almost five years. He can also be found on the stage acting in many of CRFT's mainstage productions, The Addams Family, The Musical being the most recent. He also shares Kline’s enthusiasm for working on Puffs together.

“Mr. Kline and I have wanted to collaborate on a project for quite some time. When he announced Puffs in the season, we both knew this was that project.”

Concha seems to be the perfect guest director for Puffs being a big Harry Potter fan himself.

“I love the rich and immersive world and all of its magical elements and compelling characters, each with their own strengths, flaws, and personal struggles. Additionally, the themes of friendship, loyalty, the battle between good and evil, the impact of choices, and the importance of standing up for what is right have always rang true with me.”

But he also believes that Puffs is a great play and story all on its own as well.

“Puffs is not just a hilarious parody of all things Harry Potter. It is a play that is full of heart. The characters are all fully realized and go through difficult journeys. They deal with death, personal identity, relationships, and what it means to feel insignificant in the world at large. Something any of us can relate to, no matter what house we are sorted into.”

New Fire Theatre has plans for the rest of their second season that will include James and the Giant Peach and the Dragon Film Festival, both in May. For more details on those two events be sure to follow them on facebook at: http://tinyurl.com/mu9p8yzc

Don’t miss Puffs on March 21, 22 & 23 at 6 p.m. at The Capitol Encore High School located at 200 Mason Street. Tickets can be purchased at: http://tinyurl.com/yrhjds24

“The stark beauty of the winter landscape and peacefulness can spark creativity and imagination in a way that other seasons cannot. The starkness of the cold can bring clarity and focus to the creative process, while the quiet of the season can encourage introspection and contemplation,” SurferToday.com
Cape Fear Studios’ mission is to “involve, educate, and enrich Cumberland County and surrounding areas with the opportunity to create and view art,” according to the Cape Fear Studios website.

Cape Fear Studios and Gallery announces the Annual Cabin Fever Exhibit for 2024. The exhibit will feature emerging and professional artists over the age of eighteen. The artists will present works in the mediums of acrylic, oil, watercolor, painting, hand-crafted wood art, hand-crafted jewelry, fiber, decoupage, photography, pottery, glass artworks and drawing from mixed media. The original art pieces are for sale to the public.

“It is not art you are buying from an artist/maker, you are buying more than an object or painting: you are buying hundreds of hours of failures and experimentation. You are buying days, weeks, and months of pure joy. You are not buying a thing, you are buying a piece of the heart, part of the soul, a moment of someone’s life. Most importantly, you are buying the artist more time to do something they are enthusiastic about,” said Shelly Corbett, photographer.

The Cabin Fever Exhibit enhances the community on the micro, meso and macro levels. The artists can view innovative and creative techniques among various mediums and build relationships with other artists. The public can experience enhanced perspectives, ideas, and values concerning reality.
“It is a good opportunity to see what other artists are doing. It is beginning to form a relationship with the art community. People enjoy it. We usually have a good turnout. The people are being creative at home. It is an opportunity to share one’s work. We enjoy doing community exhibits a couple of times a year,” shares Pandy Autry, Cape Fear Studios and Gallery Board President.

Have a Zen experience at the Cape Fear Studios and Gallery’s Cabin Fever Exhibit. The exhibit runs until March 15. The voting for the People’s Choice Award began February 23, and will remain open for the duration of the exhibit.

The winners will be announced on Facebook and Instagram at https://www.facebook.com/capefearstudios and https://www.instragram.com/capefearstudios. Cape Fear Studios and Gallery is located at 148 Maxwell Street. Admission to the Cabin Fever Exhibit is free.
Cabin Fever information is available by email at artgallery@capefearstudios.com. Their phone number is 910-433-2986.