City of Fayetteville
For some, another place to get a 7-11 Slurpee, a short distance from Methodist University and surrounding neighborhoods, is a blessing. For others, they felt it was not a good fit for the commercial corner at the corner of McArthur Road and Stacy Weaver Drive in North Fayetteville and lobbied against the new convenience store with fuel sales.
Regardless, on Aug. 25, the rezoning request for the 2.1-acre parcel was approved. The intersection, which houses a public library, a grocery store and a Circle K convenience store, has had commercial activity on it since 1995. The property also aligned with the Future Land Use Plan and the Unified Development Ordinance, that the permitted uses and development standards for the district are appropriate for the site, given surrounding zoning and land uses, and there are no anticipated negative impacts to public health, safety, morals or general welfare.
Those voting in opposition were Mayor Mitch Colvin, Mayor Pro Tem Kathy Jensen and Councilman Mario Benavente.
In other news, the Economic and Community Development Department, in collaboration with the Office of Community Safety, awarded 20 grants totaling $84,500 for programs focusing on crime reduction through the Empowering Community Safety Micro-Grant Program.
The programs and activities ranged from community crime prevention to youth workshops and aimed to inspire and boost community crime reduction activities by supporting efforts to prevent crime and violence in Fayetteville. All were funded by micro-grants.
The City is also leading workshops to help residents establish and operate a non-profit organization. The first class was held on Aug. 20, and a future workshop will be held on Sept. 10 with information on recruiting, onboarding and managing board members, volunteers and donors. The last workshop will be held on Oct. 8 and will include information on how to generate sustainable income through grants, sponsorships and fundraising campaigns. Locations to workshops will be given once registered. Registration is required through www.fayettevillenc.gov/ECD.
Cumberland County
On Aug. 26, the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners approved a resolution for the Purdue/Sackler opioid settlement. This action follows North Carolina's broader participation in national opioid settlements, which will bring millions of dollars to Cumberland County to combat the opioid crisis. In addition to funds from other opioid settlements, Cumberland County is estimated to receive an extra $3.26 million from the Purdue/Sackler deal over the next 15 years.
The board also approved a $250,000 Homeless Prevention and Stabilization Voucher program. The pilot program will provide short-term rental, utility, and transportation assistance for households who are at risk of homelessness. The program will run for six months or until funds are expended, with outcomes reported back to the Board.
In other news, “Buzz on over to the Cumberland County Fair!” The Cumberland County Fair will be held through Sept. 7 at the Crown Complex. According to county leaders, the annual event celebrates Cumberland County’s agricultural heritage and combines family fun, informative agricultural exhibits, a diverse collection of local arts and crafts, and entertainment with exciting rides and fair food.
The Cumberland County Co-operative Extension and North Carolina Cooperative Extension will also highlight bees and pollinators with a Winnie the Pooh exhibit with Pooh’s home and a tree with a red door. Youth livestock shows are also featured in the arena.
Admission is $11. Children under age 3 get in free. Ride Wristbands are available on the Midway for $32 per person. Individual Ride Tickets are also available. For more information, including admission prices, exhibits, entertainment, vendors and schedule, visit www.cumberlandcountyfair.org. Daily special events include Faith and Family Day, Day of Giving and sensory-friendly times, among others. View or download the official fair program book from the website and follow the fair on social media at Facebook.com/CCFairNC
About the Greater Fayetteville Chamber
Advocacy is a cornerstone of the Greater Fayetteville Chamber. Every week, the Chamber dedicates staff to attend City of Fayetteville and Cumberland County meetings as well as monitoring updates on the state and federal levels. We monitor legislation locally, statewide and federally to protect our community’s business interests. With 91% of U.S. adults recognizing a Chamber of Commerce's impact on growth, membership ensures a strong voice shaping policies, driving economic success, and building a thriving business community—together. To learn more, visit www.faybiz.com or email jmclaughlin@faybiz.com.

(Photo courtesy of Anna Deaton)

Where does our garbage go? After you take it out of your house into your bin and roll it to the curb, the garbage truck comes to get it and rolls on out of your neighborhood. But then, where does it go?
My grandchildren, each in their own ways, were obsessed with all things garbage when they were little. They were always on high alert for the sound of the garbage truck’s arrival. We bought toy garbage trucks along with little, tiny rolling bins that amused them (and us!) for hours. Being a “garbage man” was the top career choice for one for a while.
They also had a book called “Where Does the Garbage Go?” The book read, “When the last layer of soil is spread on top of a landfill, grass and trees are planted on top of it. The landfill becomes a park or a playground.” There were drawings of a colorful playground, full of happy children. This cheery book, with wonderful intentions, showed a happy ending to a stinky pile of trash.
That book stuck with my granddaughter, and she recently wrote her college thesis on where, in fact, the garbage went for many years in Chapel Hill.
Spoiler alert: There is no happy playground on top of your local landfill if you live in Chapel Hill.
Some lucky communities that are next to a landfill might get a park in exchange. But in reality, being a landfill host community is much messier. Promises like parks are made to communities, and are often broken. Certain communities, usually those already burdened by poverty and racism, bear the burden again and again.
Here’s a little local history: For generations, the land near what are now Rogers and Eubanks roads in Chapel Hill was home to a historically Black community composed of farms and sawmills. The Rogers-Eubanks Neighborhood Association’s website says, “It was beautiful land. The woods were untouched, the streams were full of fish, and there were all types of birds and wildlife.”
But in the 1970s, Chapel Hill needed a new landfill, and the town chose land in the Rogers Road community. The town government offered the community benefits to soften the weight of the landfill’s presence. At the time, it was unusual — almost unheard of — for communities to receive any sort of incentive for bearing the burden of environmental hazards.
In exchange for the landfill, the Rogers-Eubanks community would receive water and sewer hookups, taking them off well water and septic. It was a clear recognition that there was the potential for water pollution.
And there were other promises -- of paving roads and installing sidewalks. After 20 years, the landfill would be closed and a new site would be found. And indeed, on top of the landfill would be a park. At the heart of this agreement was Mayor Howard Lee, Chapel Hill’s first Black mayor and the first Black mayor of a majority-white Southern city since Reconstruction.
Mayor Lee knew the burden of the landfill would impact the community. Knowing this, he made a deliberate effort to engage with residents.
Despite Mayor Lee's good intentions and engagement, the repercussions came fast and hard. Trucks rolled through daily, and smells filled the air and homes. The tap water ran brown, laced with unsafe bacteria. Pests roamed the streets scavenging trash. Community members became sick.
Residents protested, but to no avail. In the 1990s, the landfill was expanded further into the community.
Then, after more than four decades — 42 years of bearing the unseen and too often ignored costs — the community won a rare and hard-earned victory. The landfill was closed in 2013. The town funded a community center, which is a vital hub for the neighborhood.
But problems plague the community. Many homes are still not connected to the water and sewer lines. Some residents bathe in contaminated well water and purchase bottled water for drinking and cooking. The promise of sidewalks was not fulfilled by the town of Chapel Hill. And indeed, there is no park.
So where does our garbage go these days? Now our garbage travels an hour and a half to Sampson County. And just like Rogers Road, it sits next to a historically Black community, already burdened by hog and poultry farms. This community was told the landfill would not grow, but what started as a 20-acre landfill is now over 1,000. Different place, same story.
Across the South and the nation, familiar patterns repeat: land once home to communities long pushed aside is now used for landfills, industry, or other unwelcome uses—too often without residents’ say.
We’ve got to come to terms with the fact that solutions are rarely simple. They’re almost never wrapped up in bright colors or easy endings, like those cheerful garbage trucks and parks on top of landfills in my grandkids’ book might suggest. The real work of solving problems isn’t neat or easy. It’s messy. It’s complicated. And it demands more than good intentions.
When we go looking for solutions—whether it’s in government, education, or how we deal with our stinky, dangerous trash—we can’t just ask, “What’s the fix?” We’ve got to ask, “Who’s being affected?” and just as importantly, “Are they being heard?”

I love Cracker Barrel! In my twenty-one annual motorcycle trips to the Midwest, Cracker Barrel consistently delivered that warm, down-home Southern cooking and hospitality that started each day just the way Uncle Hershel designed it.
In today’s hyper-reactive marketplace, brands seem to be under constant pressure to change and evolve. However, from a marketing point of view, when change comes at the expense of abandoning your brand, the consequences can be unforgiving.
It takes years to build a brand. Anyone who knows me also knows I believe in branding as defined by three simple truths: Who you are. What you are. What you stand for.
It amazes me that successful products like Bud Light and iconic corporations like Cracker Barrel could make such poor and catastrophic decisions—whether it’s redesigning an iconic logo or partnering with a controversial figure like Dylan Mulvaney. How can you possibly lose sight of your customers and core audience who have served you well for decades? Curious minds would like to know.
Cracker Barrel abandoned its iconic image of “Uncle Hershel” sitting beside a cracker barrel, replacing it with a bland, minimalist design supposedly meant to modernize the brand and attract younger customers.
Wrong move. Nationwide, customers felt the company had abandoned its roots, and criticism came fast and harsh. At last count, this lapse in judgment cost Cracker Barrel nearly $100 million. However, it could have been much worse had they not reversed the decision just days later.
Not so with Bud Light. In 2023, they partnered with transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney in a campaign to promote inclusivity. That campaign sparked a political firestorm across the country, leading loyal Bud Light customers to boycott the product—and in some cases, publicly destroy it.
Cracker Barrel’s $100 million mistake pales in comparison to Bud Light’s staggering $1.4 billion loss in sales, which ultimately dethroned them as the nation’s top-selling beer.
All of this adds credence to the adage: Go woke, go broke.
A brand and logo are not just concepts and graphics—they represent trust, nostalgia, history, and tradition. By choosing to preserve its original imagery, Cracker Barrel made a strategic decision to honor its heritage and reassure its loyal base.
Bud Light attempted a radical repositioning without fully understanding its audience. Their campaign wasn’t just progressive—it was political. A costly lesson, for sure. If change is needed, it must be evolutionary, not revolutionary.
Brands, businesses, organizations, and people must adapt to survive and thrive—but they must do so with empathy, clarity, and respect for the values that built their success.
Cracker Barrel’s course correction showed that even amid controversy, a brand can recover by reaffirming its identity. Bud Light, on the other hand, is still struggling to regain the market share it lost.
In the end, Cracker Barrel made the right call. It listened. It learned. And it chose legacy over trend. That’s a decision worth applauding—and one that other brands would do well to remember.
Keep your eyes on America’s most loved motorcycle brand, Harley-Davidson. They may be the next corporate tragedy if they aren’t paying close attention to their customer base or ignoring these conspicuous and disastrous business decisions. Just sayin’.
Thank you for reading Up & Coming Weekly.
See you at Cracker Barrel.

Natural disasters and severe storms can leave a trail of devastation in their wake. When such events occur, people are left to pick up the pieces, and that may involve assessing damage to their homes.
The aftermath of a storm is a difficult time for individuals whose homes were damaged or lost. Knowing what to do in the aftermath of a storm that damaged or destroyed their homes can start victims on the road to recovery that much sooner.
• Check to confirm everyone is alright. The first step anyone can take after their home is damaged is to confirm everyone is safe. That includes residents of the home as well as neighbors. Check to ensure elderly residents and neighbors or those with mobility issues, made it through the storm safely.
A 2011 study published in the journal Medical Anthropology found that the greatest mortality during and immediately after Hurricane Katrina in 2005 was among the elderly. The study noted that individuals over age 60 accounted for 75 percent of the bodies found immediately after the storm.
• Assess and document the damage. Once everyone is safe, assess the damage from a reasonable distance. It's necessary to keep your distance because the property may still be vulnerable to further damage, including collapse.
If it's safe to do so, you can then begin to document the damage, utilizing a smartphone to take photos and videos of the property. If it's safe to enter the property, take as many photos and videos of the interior of the home as possible, making sure to upload them to cloud storage soon thereafter. Photos and videos taken immediately after a storm can facilitate the claims process with your insurance provider.
• Contact your insurance provider. If conditions allow for safe assessment and documentation of the damage, contact your insurance provider to report it and begin the claims process. Chances are, many others will be contacting the same provider, so it's best to begin the claims process as soon as possible. It also helps to recognize that patience will be necessary.
Many insurance providers now allow policyholders to file claims through apps on their mobile phones, and doing so can be invaluable if tablets, laptops and other devices were damaged or destroyed during the storm.
• Ask your provider what you can do. Insurance policies may only cover damage that occurred during the storm. Post-storm damage, such as water issues that arise because windows or doors were damaged during the storm, may not be covered. That's why it's a good idea for homeowners and others to call their insurance providers and ask what to do to prevent further, potentially uncovered damage.
• Recognize that criminals pose a new threat. The Federal Emergency Management Agency encourages survivors to be cognizant of fraudulent schemes that often arise in the aftermath of a storm. Examples of scams include housing inspectors claiming to represent FEMA, fake offers of local or federal aid and fraudulent building contractors. Always ask for identification and do not work with anyone asking for cash in return for assistance.
Knowing what to do in the aftermath of a devastating storm can help survivors get on the road to recovery more quickly.

In response to a growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals, Fayetteville Technical Community College is expanding its Associate Degree Nursing program, increasing enrollment from 280 to 400 full-time students. This expansion comes at a critical time: North Carolina is projected to face a 23% shortage of registered nurses by 2036 — the fourth-largest RN shortage in the nation.
For Cumberland County and surrounding areas, the looming shortage could lead to longer hospital wait times, heavier workloads for current staff, and challenges in maintaining high-quality care.
Without enough nurses, timely access to healthcare services is at risk, highlighting the urgent need to invest in nursing education and support local healthcare workers. FTCC’s expanded ADN program is a key step toward filling these gaps by preparing more highly qualified nurses to enter the healthcare workforce.
In September 2024, FTCC opened a new Nursing Education Annex, adding 6,000 square feet of space to support increased enrollment. The annex complements the Nursing Education and Simulation Center—a state-of-the-art facility with seven classrooms, two computer labs, eleven simulation labs, and two debriefing rooms.
Together, the labs, classrooms, study rooms, communal areas, and faculty offices create a welcoming, supportive environment for both students and instructors.
Beyond physical space expansion, FTCC provides comprehensive support services to help recruit and retain nursing students. Faculty and the engaging staff in the Student Learning Center offer regular tutoring to strengthen subject knowledge and lab skills.
Workshops on test-taking, time management, and study skills further strengthen academic success. Nursing students are encouraged to participate in clubs and organizations such as the Student Nurses’ Association, Alpha Delta Nu Honor Society and the Practical Nursing Club, which build peer relationships and promote health education and community engagement.
With some of the lowest tuition rates in the region, FTCC helps students access financial aid, scholarships, and work-study opportunities—allowing many to graduate with little or no personal cost. As the region faces a growing healthcare staffing shortage, FTCC stands at the forefront—preparing the next generation of nurses with the education, experience, and support to serve their communities.
Are you ready to learn more?
Contact FTCC Today by visiting the office at the Nursing Education Annex, Rm. 101, 2340 Hull Rd. Call 910-678-0183 or email the Department Secretary, Mrs. Michelle Asendorf, at asendorm@faytechcc.edu.

Jazz, romance, mobsters and laugh-out-loud comedy as Billy Wilder’s Some Like It Hot (1959) returns to the big screen at the Cameo Art House Theatre. One of the most beloved American films of all time, this comedy will screen on Saturday, Aug. 30 at 4:30 p.m.
The story follows two struggling musicians, Joe (Tony Curtis) and Jerry (Jack Lemmon), who accidentally witness the infamous St. Valentine’s Day Massacre in 1929 Chicago. Fearing for their lives, they scramble to escape town and land the only available gig, playing in an all-female jazz band headed to sunny Florida.
To take the job, they don wigs, dresses, heels and adopt the personas of Josephine and Daphne. But the real trouble begins when they meet the band’s lead singer and ukulele player, the irresistible Sugar Kane, played by Marilyn Monroe.
As Joe as “Josephine” falls head over heels for Sugar, and Jerry as “Daphne” finds himself being pursued by a millionaire suitor, the film delivers a riotous comedy of errors full of mistaken identity, gender-bending hijinks and sharp one-liners. From train car shenanigans to moonlit beach romances, Wilder masterfully blends farce with charm, setting the gold standard for romantic comedy for generations to come.
What truly makes Some Like It Hot endure is its perfect mix of comedic timing, bold subject matter and sincere emotion. The trio of Curtis, Lemmon and Monroe creates electric chemistry that still pops off the screen. Monroe’s performance, often praised as one of her finest, showcases both her comedic instincts and dramatic depth.
She embodies Sugar with fragility and hope, dreaming of a better life while navigating the disappointments she’s known. Lemmon’s portrayal of Jerry/Daphne, with his expressions, physicality and delivery, earned him a well-deserved Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. Curtis balances suave charm and zany disguise, especially in scenes where Joe pretends to be a millionaire to win Sugar’s affection.
Curtis should have been nominated, too. The film received six Academy Award nominations and took home the Oscar for Best Costume Design and rightly so. Orry-Kelly’s wardrobe design is awesome in both comedy and authenticity.
Beyond the laughter, Some Like It Hot was revolutionary in its approach to gender and identity. Released during the strict enforcement of the Hollywood Production Code, the film gleefully thumbed its nose at conventions of the day. The idea of two men dressing as women and navigating romantic entanglements was considered taboo.
Some Like It Hot is more than just a comedy. Its clever script and unforgettable performances make it a film that appeals to all ages, bringing joy and laughter no matter how many times you watch it. For Fayetteville residents, it’s a wonderful way to spend an afternoon in Hollywood’s golden era. The film reminds us that life doesn’t always go according to plan and sometimes, the only way to survive is to laugh through the chaos.
Saturday, Aug. 30 – 4:30 p.m. Rating: Approved. Runtime: 2hr 1min

(Photo courtesy of Cameo Art House Theatre)

Here’s a trivia question: Name a novel by a North Carolina writer about a fictional author who traveled abroad and struggled with returning to the complexities of American culture?
If you know your North Carolina literary history, your knee-jerk reaction might be “You Can’t Go Home Again” by Thomas Wolfe. Published in 1940 after Wolfe’s death, the plot follows an author who wrote an acclaimed book, traveled to Paris, London, and New York, and struggles with being able to return to his hometown.
If you are up to date with more current North Carolina authors, you know that these themes are explored afresh by our most recent National Book Award winner, Jason Mott. Mott grew up and still lives in Columbus County, is a double graduate of UNC-Wilmington, and is a professor there. He’s a North Carolinian through and through. In his new novel, “People Like Us,” the question of whether you can return home again is alive, well, and all too pertinent.
If you have not read any of Mott’s novels, you have a treat ahead of you. Mott bends genres and leans into his background and expertise as a poet to create visceral, vivid scenes that make his books hard to put down.
I’m drawn to realistic fiction and generally like to keep both my feet on solid ground. I shy away from anything with too much shape-shifting or supernatural elements.
Mott’s debut novel, “The Returned,” published in 2011, featured the reappearance in fully-human form of people who died years ago. I’ll admit, I was skeptical. But his ability to persuade literalists like me to suspend disbelief opened the door to my enjoying his provocative stories, laced with intoxicating magical realism.
In his 2018 novel “The Crossing,” he blurred the lines of reality in a dystopian story of teenage twins coping in a world battered by deadly disease and war. And then, in 2021, he captured the National Book Award with “Hell of a Book” using surreal elements, “audacity and invention” to wow the panel of judges judges.
And now, fresh off the presses, “People Like Us,” while not exactly a sequel to “Hell of a Book,” pulls some of the same characters into yet another blending of the mundane and the otherworldly. Mott’s toolbox of magical realism, time travel, and hallucinatory passages allows his characters—and his readers—to process difficult issues.
Stretching from familiar North Carolina all the way up to the cold reaches of Minnesota and even farther, across the Atlantic to Europe, Mott uses interlocking storylines of two main narrators who are alike in some ways but shaped by their own unique struggles.
Mott situates us on ground we recognize—post-pandemic America, full of both sunshine and lurking, dark shadows. He doesn’t flinch from the hard stuff—gun violence, divorce, suicide, racism—laying them out with an honesty that startles.
He treats these weighty themes not just with the gravity they demand, but with a surprising mix of wit, irony, and even tenderness. Mott pulls it off with grace, vivid detail, and, at times, something close to poetry.
For anyone who has wondered if they belong in their family, in their school, in their hometown, or in their country, Mott offers a reminder that’s both bracing and comforting: those doubts are not yours alone. You’re not as alone—or as different—as you might think.
No matter your view on the Second Amendment, no matter your race, no matter if you are a Southerner or someone from the Midwest, you’ll see yourself in these characters. They are grieving, struggling with questions of identity and belonging, and searching to find their place, whether that means a spot on the map, a moment in history, or a role within their own family. In “People Like Us,” Mott makes it clear: there are, indeed, people like you.
Mott picks up where Wolfe and other North Carolina writers have left off, wrestling with the question of whether we can or can’t go home again. Percolating amidst the rollicking exploration of this question lies something even darker: a quiet alarm about the direction our country—our home—is taking. One character even suggests that “hell, for the right price, leaving America just might be the new American Dream.”
You might find yourself nodding in agreement.

Each month, we highlight the new restaurants and venues that have opened.

WAWA
3613 Raeford Rd.
Open 24 Hours
910-321-8010
https://www.wawa.com/
Wawa, a beloved convenience store and gas station chain along the North Coast, rivals competitors like 7-11 and Sheetz. Operating around the clock, this one-stop shop has become an essential part of local communities.

UMI
5548 Yadkin Rd.
Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Fri. & Sat. 11 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.
Sun. Noon to 11 p.m.
910-491-0414
https://www.uminc28303.com/
Craving sushi, hibachi, or comforting ramen? Umi, formerly Pocky Cafe, offers a delicious menu featuring fresh sushi rolls, flavorful ramen bowls, and savory teriyaki dishes. Dine in or enjoy the convenience of delivery and takeout.

CEDAR CREEK MARKET LLC
1304 CEDAR CREEK RD
Tues.-Sat. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
770-905-5652
https://cedarcreekfarmersmarket.com/
Cedar Creek Market, a family-run farm and market, celebrated its grand opening on August 7th. Offering a wide selection of fresh, locally-sourced products, the market features its own pastured meats alongside produce, jams, jellies, honey, and other goods from other local farms.

CHAPTER HOUSE BOOKS
225 FRANKLIN ST.
Tues.-Fri. Noon to 6 p.m.
Sat. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
910-263-8765
https://www.chapterhousenc.com/
Chapter House Books sells new, used and vintage books in all genres. They have also partnered with Libro for you to buy audiobooks directly from their store with over 500,000 titles in the catalog.

Keep an eye out for…..

Jersey Mike’s at Dirtbag Plaza
5533 Corporation Drive, Hope Mills
Back in September 2024, Dirtbag Ales announced they would be developing the land across the street from them with a plaza.
The first business for the plaza has been announced. Jersey Mike's, owned by Daniel and Jamie Terracciano, will be a 1,800-square-foot sandwich shop. They are hoping to have the store open by the end of September. Keep a look out for a grand opening announcement.

BOUNTY FARMHOUSE KITCHEN & TAP
4150 SYCAMORE DAIRY ROAD
The former Mash House location is getting a fresh start with Bounty Farmhouse Kitchen & Tap, a farm-to-table restaurant celebrating North Carolina's rich agricultural heritage. Bounty will feature seasonal menus and whole-animal butchery, showcasing the best of local ingredients.
The bar will offer a curated selection of craft cocktails, North Carolina beers, and locally sourced wines and spirits. Look for Bounty Farmhouse Kitchen & Tap to open in Fall 2025.

SUN SUPERMARKET
404 SANTA FE DR
910-868-9954
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100032041940811
Sun Supermarket has announced that it will be expanding to a new and bigger location, with over 30,000 square feet at the new location.
The new store will offer a new meat department, a health and wellness section, more household goods, more snacks and more grab-to-go food options. The location will be on Santa Fe near the Amazon Warehouse. Follow their Facebook page above for further updates.

This month, we are highlighting some of the great places to dine in Spring Lake.

LA VISTA ITALIAN
RESTAURANT
1107 N Bragg Blvd., Spring Lake
Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Fri.-Sun. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
910-229-3588
https://www.lavistaitaliannc.com/
Experience authentic Italian at La Vista Italian Restaurant, a cozy and casual spot with a welcoming atmosphere. Boasting a 4.5-star rating, La Vista is renowned for its delicious, traditional dishes. Embark on a culinary "Tour of Italy" or savor their generously-sized pepperoni and sausage pizza. Don't miss out on other favorites, such as the limoncello cake and flavorful garlic knots. Open for lunch and dinner, La Vista offers a wide selection of Italian staples, from pizzas, calzones, and strombolis to pasta perfection, including fettuccine alfredo, spinach ravioli, and lasagna. Wings and subs are also available for those seeking something different.

GUACAHOLIC MEXICAN GRILL & BAR
231 Skyland Shopping Center, Spring Lake
Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Fri. & Sat. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Sun. 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
910-779-0879
https://www.guacaholicgrill.com/
This vibrant hotspot is renowned for its delicious food, festive atmosphere, and unique decor that transports you straight to Mexico. Savor customer favorites like the Guacaholic Fajitas, Sizzling Enchiladas, and Texas Fajitas. Vegetarian options and a children's menu ensure everyone finds something to enjoy. The bar is a major attraction, boasting an impressive selection of margaritas. Cool off with the incredibly tasty Grinch Margarita or share the towering Guac Tower Margarita with friends.

SAWADDEE THAI & CHINESE RESTAURANT
1006 N. Bragg Blvd, Spring Lake
Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.,
3:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Sat. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
910-436-5757
https://tinyurl.com/57pzkn72
Savor authentic Thai cuisine at Sawaddee Thai & Chinese Restaurant, a beloved local gem boasting a 4.6-star rating. This casual, family-run establishment is renowned for its generous portions and flavorful dishes, including classics like Pad Thai, Panang Chicken, Red Curry, and Pineapple Fried Rice. Vegetarian options are also available. Complete your meal with a taste of their homemade desserts—the Thai Taro Custard and Fried Bananas with Honey are not to be missed.

LEGACY ROLLS
1161 N Bragg Blvd., Spring Lake
Mon.-Thurs. 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Fri. & Sat. 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Sun. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
919-448-5241
Legacy Rolls offers a casual and cozy dining experience centered around a unique comfort food concept. Founded by a father and son team, this restaurant features slider creations served on their signature sweet rolls – a treasured family recipe passed down through generations. Beyond their famous sliders, Legacy Rolls also offers breakfast items and a variety of tempting sides. Popular slider choices include cheeseburger, fried chicken, pork belly, and catfish. Breakfast sandwiches are also available. But the real star of the show is the sweet roll itself. Don't miss the chance to try the blueberry sweet roll – a true highlight of the menu.

CEDAR POINT RESTAURANT
997 N Bragg Blvd, Spring Lake
Wed.-Sun 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
910-497-9127
Cedar Point Restaurant is a beloved daytime diner, celebrated for its friendly, down-to-earth atmosphere and classic American comfort food. Start your day with a hearty breakfast featuring fluffy omelets, stacks of pancakes, or traditional breakfast plates served with your choice of home fries or grits. For lunch, indulge in comforting classics like juicy burgers, flavorful chicken Philly sandwiches, and other satisfying dishes. The perfectly cooked jalapeño pepper jack burger and the savory chicken Philly come highly recommended. And don't forget to save room for dessert. The peanut butter pie is a must-try.

PEKING WOK
630 Lillington Hwy #128,
Spring Lake
Tues.-Thurs. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Fri. & Sat. 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Sun. Noon to 10 p.m.
910-497-8884
Peking Wok serves up authentic Chinese cuisine in a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere that caters to both dine-in guests and takeout customers. The restaurant's extensive menu features beloved classics that keep diners coming back, including their perfectly crispy General Tso's chicken glazed in sweet-spicy sauce, tender lo mein noodles tossed with fresh vegetables, and crispy crab rangoon filled with creamy crab and cream cheese.

ABBY'S EMPANADAS
8018 Elliot Bridge Rd., Spring Lake
Mon. -Sat. 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
910-835-4004
https://abbysempanadas.com/
Abby's Empanadas is a family-owned restaurant with a cozy atmosphere, with the motto "bake you happy!" Their authentic, artisan-baked empanadas are made fresh daily with premium ingredients. Both savory and sweet options are available. Savor classic fillings like chicken, cheesy beef, or spicy chipotle chicken. Start your day—any time of day—with their breakfast empanada featuring bacon, egg, and cheese. For a sweet treat, indulge in our guava and cheese, rich dulce de leche, or seasonal caramel apple empanadas.

BROOKLYN PIZZERIA
1125 N. Bragg Blvd., Spring Lake
Tues.-Sat. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
910-436-5666
https://brooklynpizzeriaspringlake.com/
Brooklyn Pizzeria offers a laid-back dining experience specializing in authentic New York-style pizza, featuring perfectly crispy thin crusts and generously-sized slices that satisfy any appetite. Beyond their signature pies, this welcoming establishment serves up a delectable array of traditional Italian favorites, including homemade baked lasagna layered with rich cheese and hearty meat sauce, and tender ravioli filled with savory ingredients. Customers can also enjoy fresh submarine sandwiches, crisp garden salads, and crowd-pleasing sides such as freshly baked garlic knots and flavorful chicken wings tossed in various sauces.

NAVARIAH'S KITCHEN
1114 N. Bragg Blvd, Spring Lake
Mon.-Thurs. 11:30 a.m. to
7:30 p.m.
Fri. 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
910-229-2701
Navariah's Kitchen delights diners with its vibrant Caribbean-soul food offerings, bringing authentic island flavors to every plate. The restaurant's signature dishes showcase traditional Caribbean cooking at its finest, from tender, slow-cooked oxtails in rich gravy to perfectly seasoned curry chicken. Other must-try specialties include their smoky jerk chicken, hearty brown stew chicken, and aromatic curry goat. Complete your meal with their irresistible sides - creamy mac and cheese, fragrant rice and peas, and sweet, caramelized fried plantains.

NOBLE MEATS & EATERY
2469 Lillington Hwy #1847, Spring Lake
Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
910-436-6022
Noble Meats & Eatery offers a unique dining experience, combining a custom butcher shop with a barbecue restaurant. Enjoy a friendly atmosphere, generous portions, and flavorful barbecue favorites like brisket, pulled pork, and burnt ends. The menu also features a variety of sandwiches and lunch plates. Beyond the delicious barbecue, you can visit the butcher shop and select from a wide array of fresh cuts of meat and homemade sausages.

DAB'S SOUL FOOD CAFE
412 N. Bragg Blvd, Spring Lake
Mon. 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Tues. 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Thurs. & Fri. 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sat. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
910-436-0110
Dab's Soul Food Cafe is renowned for its authentic Southern soul food. While the menu changes daily, offering a delightful variety, you can always count on classics like crispy fried chicken, tender smothered pork chops, savory turkey wings, and homestyle meatloaf. These mainstays are complemented by a rotating selection of delectable sides, including creamy mac and cheese, sweet candied yams, and flavorful collard greens.

LOS PRIMOS
316 Lillington Hwy, Spring Lake
Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sat. 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
910-436-0306
Los Primos is a beloved Mexican restaurant specializing in authentic Mexican cuisine. Their menu features classic dishes like handmade tacos, burritos stuffed with fresh ingredients, and traditional tamales wrapped in corn husks. The restaurant has earned a reputation for its flavorful house specialties, including richly sauced enchiladas, tender steak tacos, savory birria tacos, and hearty Mole de Olla soup.

K-FOOD SEOUL
600 N. Bragg Blvd., Spring Lake
Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Fri. & Sat. Noon to 8 p.m.
910-263-8200
K-Food Seoul, a popular Korean restaurant boasting a 4.5-star rating, is praised for its authentic and flavorful dishes. The menu features Korean classics, including CupBop, a layered rice bowl customizable with various toppings such as Beef & Mandu, Pork & Chicken, or Pork & Beef Bulgogi. Beyond CupBop, K-Food Seoul offers enticing entrees like marinated grilled beef ribs and hearty stews like Kimchi Jjigae. You can also savor other Korean favorites, including crispy fried chicken, flavorful dumplings, and comforting beef rib soup.

NAK WON KOREAN
RESTAURANT
138 N. Main St., Spring Lake
Wed. & Thurs. 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Fri. & Sat. 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Sun. 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
910-497-8858
Nak Won Korean Restaurant is a family-run eatery celebrated for its authentic Korean cuisine and generous portions. Savor classic dishes like Beef Bulgogi, Spicy Pork Bulgogi, and Bibimbap. Guest favorites also include Kimbap (seaweed rice rolls), crispy Goon Yaki Mandu (fried beef dumplings), Tteokbokki (spicy stir-fried rice cakes), and sweet Korean rice donuts filled with creamy custard. Vegetarian options are also available.

ARMORED TACOS & GRILL
RESTAURANT
110 S. Bragg Blvd. #28390, Spring Lake
Mon.-Fri. 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Sat. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
910-920-1060
https://www.armoredtacosandgrill.com
Savor the authentic flavors of Mexico at Armored Tacos & Grill, a casual and cozy restaurant where every dish is made fresh to order. They specialize in both traditional Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine, offering a menu packed with vibrant flavors and generous portions. Sink your teeth into their signature tacos, filled with your choice of savory carne asada, al pastor, chorizo, carnitas, or barbacoa. Be sure to explore the hefty burritos, sizzling fajitas, cheesy quesadillas, crispy chimichangas, and their famous "bomber fries," piled high with your favorite toppings and meats.

THAI-ESAN RESTAURANT
803 N. Main St., Spring Lake
Wed.-Fri. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
910-497-3795
https://www.thaiesanrestaurant.com/
Savor the authentic flavors of Northeast Thailand at Thai-Esan Restaurant, a family-owned gem known for its exquisite Esan cuisine. Chef and owner Pennapa Hinnant personally crafts each dish, ensuring an unforgettable culinary experience true to her heritage. Explore popular favorites like Pad Thai, rich Red and Panang Curries, savory Beef Bulgogi, and the fiery delight of Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao).

OSAKA JAPANESE EXPRESS
624 Lillington Hwy Unit 200, Spring Lake
Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
910-835-5711
https://www.osakaspringlake.com/
Osaka Japanese Express offers a casual dining experience, specializing in delicious hibachi and teriyaki dishes for both takeout and dine-in. Their menu features a wide selection of Japanese favorites, from classic hibachi and teriyaki entrees to flavorful fried rice and ramen bowls. For sushi lovers, they also offer a dedicated sushi bar.

CHOPSSTIXS THAI & ASIAN CUISINE
414 N. Bragg Blvd, Spring Lake
Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
910-436-2728
Savor the Flavors of Asia at Chopstixs Thai & Asian Cuisine. This casual and welcoming restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring both classic Thai favorites and popular Asian dishes. From the rich aromas of Pad Thai and a variety of curries to satisfying Chinese dinner combos like General Tso's Chicken and Mongolian Beef, there's something for everyone. Enjoy a relaxing dine-in experience, grab a quick and tasty takeout meal, or have the flavors of Asia delivered right to your door.

Fayetteville will once again rally around a cause that is both sobering and unifying when the 10th Annual Man 22 Suicide Awareness Run steps off on Saturday, Sept. 13, at Festival Park.
The event, founded by Army veteran Rick “Rngr” Murillo, honors the memory of service members lost to suicide while raising awareness about a crisis that affects an estimated 22 veterans every day. What began a decade ago as a small grassroots tribute has grown into a large community gathering that blends remembrance with action.
Murillo launched the event in 2016 after losing his close friend and fellow paratrooper Barry Barker, who served in the 82nd Airborne Division. In interviews over the years, Murillo has said he struggled with the weight of his own experiences after the Army and decided to turn pain into purpose. The “22” in the event’s name represents the average number of veteran suicides reported daily in the United States.
The run is symbolic: participants cover 2.22 miles, then drop for 22 pushups. Both acts serve as a living memorial and a physical reminder of the toll veteran suicide has taken.
The first event drew just over 50 people. Now, hundreds come together each year, including military families, Gold Star parents, first responders, and civilians who want to show support.
This year’s 10th anniversary will include several new features alongside the familiar format. The day begins at 10 a.m. with an opening ceremony, followed by the run through downtown Fayetteville. The schedule also includes a Gold Star Gala, a parachute demonstration by a veteran jump team, and an escort in honor of families who have lost loved ones.
Guest speakers, nonprofit resource tables, and live entertainment will round out the day, turning Festival Park into a hub for both solemn reflection and community fellowship.
Organizers say the message remains simple but urgent: veterans and their families are not alone, and the community is ready to stand with them.
The run is organized by Murillo’s nonprofit, Through Tragedy Comes Light, which supports suicide prevention and outreach efforts throughout North Carolina. Proceeds from T-shirt sales, vendor fees, and donations go back into local programs that provide counseling, peer support, and emergency resources for service members in crisis.
For Fayetteville, a city deeply tied to Fort Bragg and the 82nd Airborne Division, the issue strikes close to home. Local leaders, including city officials and veteran service organizations, have voiced support for the event as part of a broader push to address the challenges of transition, trauma, and mental health for soldiers leaving the military.
For participants, the Man 22 event is part memorial service, part fitness challenge, and part family reunion. Runners cross the finish line often hand-in-hand with children or battle buddies, then immediately drop to the ground for pushups in unison. Each pushup is counted out loud, sometimes through tears, as names of the fallen are read.
Vendors and community organizations line the park to offer information on resources such as the VA crisis line, peer mentorship programs, and local therapy groups. Music, food, and kids’ activities balance the heavy moments with an atmosphere of hope and resilience.
Gold Star families, in particular, say the event provides a place to see their loved ones remembered publicly. For many, hearing strangers shout the name of a fallen service member during the pushups is a moment of healing.
Organizers hope the 10th anniversary will not only celebrate a decade of impact but also renew urgency for the work still to be done.
“Twenty-two a day is not just a number, it’s fathers, mothers, brothers, and sisters,” Murillo has said. “We gather to honor them, but also to remind those still here that there is help, there is hope, and we will not let them be forgotten.”

(Photo: Runners participate in the Man 22 Suicide Awareness Run. The run recognizes the 22 veterans who commit suicide every day, and helps to bring awareness to the community. Courtesy photos)

The beating of drums will carry across Fayetteville on Sept. 6 as the Running Water Powwow welcomes the public for a full day of Native song, dance, and cultural celebration.
The annual event, held at 200 Indian Drive, blends tradition with contemporary expression. Organizers say it offers a chance to celebrate Indigenous heritage while inviting the community to learn about the values of a tradition that carries honor, respect and generosity.
“Powwows bring people together across generations,” “It’s a time to celebrate who we are and to invite others to share in that spirit,” said master of ceremonies JD Moore.
A Living Tradition
Gates will open at 8 a.m., with dancing beginning at noon. Admission is $10 per person, with free parking available. The powwow is open to the public, and attendees are encouraged to partake in food, arts, crafts and demonstrations throughout the day.
This year’s head staff includes Moore as MC, Houston Locklear as arena director, Breana Certain as head lady dancer, Bostic Locklear as head man dancer, and Raymond A. Clark as head judge. Merciless Soundz, led by Rarehyihyaks John Wesley, will provide sound, while the Pine Lodge Singers will host the drum.
Competitions include Southern Straight vs. Southern Cloth for dancers 18 and up, an All Style Jingle Dress Special for ages 16 and older, and an Adult vs. Youth Men’s Traditional Spotlight. A highly anticipated drum contest will bring top groups from across the region.
“These contests aren’t just about winning,” said Locklear, who is also the arena director. “They’re about skill, pride and honoring tradition.”
From Dance to Gathering
The modern powwow can be traced back to the early 19th century. During the reservation era, many Indigenous ceremonies were banned. The Grass Dance, which carried a more social nature, was one of the few practices allowed. As tribes were forced together, it became essential to share songs, dances, clothing and food across nations.
This exchange gave rise to “intertribalism,” a cultural blending that continues to shape powwows today. Gift giving and generosity emerged as central values of these gatherings, principles that remain at the heart of the tradition.
By the mid-20th century, the term “powwow” had been adapted from a Narragansett word meaning “meeting” and had become widely used to describe these cultural events. In recent decades, there has been a revival of even older traditions. Large competition powwows have added new categories that reflect historic forms of dance and regalia, hoping to renew interest in the earliest practices.
“Regardless of the name, these gatherings are grounded in values shared by Native people across North America,” said Clark, head judge. “Respect, honor, tradition and generosity are what we celebrate every time the drum starts.”
More Than Performance
While the spotlight shines on dancers and drummers, the powwow grounds will also feature food vendors and artisans selling handmade items. Attendees can sample both traditional dishes and modern favorites, or browse beadwork, regalia and artwork from Native craftspeople.
For organizers, this marketplace is more than commerce. It sustains cultural knowledge, supports Indigenous artists, and provides an opportunity for visitors to connect directly with makers and tradition bearers.
“We want people to experience the richness of our culture in many forms,” said head lady dancer Certain. “The songs and dances are one way, but so are the foods, the art and the stories you hear from people here.”
The Powwow Trail
North Carolina hosts more than 20 powwows each year, ranging from small community gatherings to larger events organized by colleges or casinos. These events form part of a larger “powwow trail” across North America, where thousands of dancers, singers and vendors travel from gathering to gathering.
For many, the powwow circuit is a way to strengthen bonds across tribal nations, renew cultural practices, and create intergenerational ties.
“These events are both old and new,” said Moore. “They carry the traditions of our ancestors while also creating new memories for our children and grandchildren.”
All are Welcome
The Running Water Powwow is open to everyone, and organizers welcome first-time visitors.
“Powwows are about sharing,” Clark said. “We invite the community to come and learn, to celebrate with us, and to see that our culture is alive and thriving.”
With a lineup of competitions, cultural demonstrations and family-friendly activities, organizers expect a strong turnout.
“People will come for the songs and the dancing,” Locklear said. “But they’ll leave with a deeper sense of connection to culture, to community, and to one another.”

(Photo: Breana Certain is the Head Lady at the Running Water Powwow. Certain is a jingle dress dancer. On Facebook, Certain said: "I am honored to be the 2025 Head Lady Dancer at Running Water Powwow, and I am also hosting an 'All Style Jingle Special.' There are a lot of hardships and sacrifices that go into dancing this style, and my goal is to honor and recognize everyone that participates in having us and our dresses recognized. Tabutne (thank you)!" Photo courtesy of Running Water Powwow Facebook page)

Follow the Sound to the North Carolina Sound Festival presented by the North Carolina Sound System Culture and the Lynx-Supreme Sounds. The event takes place on Sept. 6, from noon to 8 p.m.
The event will be held at 120 Old Elizabethtown Road, Fayetteville. The star guests are Sky International, Klymax Sound, and Barricade Sound. The line-up includes NC String Up, Street Thunda Sound, Minitone Sound, Lynx-Supreme Sound, Techiques Sound, Point Blank Sound and Guess Sound. General admission is free to the public. For more information, visit https://www.supremevibz.com.
The North Carolina Sound System Culture is a community celebrating reggae music and the DJ culture with roots in traditional Jamaican sound systems. It is a vibrant scene where people connect, show their passion, dance, buy and sell equipment.
The culture emphasizes community building and the experience of love of music, through large-scale hand-built systems. Sound system culture originated in Jamaica during the 1940s and 1950s, with individuals building their large speakers to play music on the streets. This is not just music, but an experience within North Carolina.
The DJs and sound systems are listed alongside the live artists. The North Carolina Sound System Culture group actively promotes, celebrates this culture, the collective of DJs, MCs, and Sound Technicians, and other roles to create a unique musical experience, according to the North Carolina Sound System Culture Facebook page.
Lynx Supreme Sound is a Fayetteville company that provides sound and music for events. They also rent equipment for musical events, such as birthday parties and stage sound. The company offers event planning, sound engineering and services.
“Reggae music is consistently influencing the world,” states Cedella Marley. Experience the influence of the North Carolina Sound Festival on Sept. 6. For more information, contact https://www.supremevibz.com.

Step back in time to the era of tight skirts and leather jackets as Cheers Too on Raeford Road hosts a Pinups and Greasers themed karaoke night. The event, a vibrant blend of retro style and musical fun, promises an evening of “coordinated chaos” led by long-time karaoke host, Kellie White.
White, who has been hosting karaoke at Cheers for nine years, is the mastermind behind the bar’s popular “Themed Summers” series, which started in 2019. After a brief hiatus during the Covid lockdown, the themes returned in 2021 and have become a beloved tradition. While White hosts karaoke several nights a week during the summer months at Cheers, the Themed Summer parties add a little extra dose of whimsy and more opportunity for creative fun. Each year, White gathers ideas from regulars and the internet, then lets the community vote on their favorite themes during the summer months. Over the years, Cheers has seen it all, from the Roaring ‘20s, to '80s and '90s nights, and even more eclectic themes like "Old People & Babies," “Nowhere to Wear It,” and "Big Hair and Bald Caps."
Pinups and Greasers, originally suggested by Cheers bartender Morgan, is the winner for 2025, so it’s time to evoke the era of Rita Hayworth and James Dean, Marilyn Monroe and The Fonz. Party-goers are encouraged to go all out with their costumes and help set the vibe for a night of retro karaoke fun.
There are no rules to the party, just come as you are, have a good time, dress up if you’d like, and enjoy, maybe even be part of the show.
“I pretty much like to plan with the 'meh' mindset,” White said with a laugh. “Almost as if it’s a surprise and we’re all waiting to see what I will do next.”
This spontaneous, fun-loving approach is what makes her karaoke show so unique. While there aren't many traditional games, White likes to sprinkle in “random weirdness” throughout the night. Attendees can expect a mix of friendly banter, some good-natured ribbing, and the chance to win a variety of prizes. It wouldn’t be a karaoke party without the host and audience making a little bit of fun of those performers who are less musically inclined.
The prizes for the Pinups and Greasers party are still being finalized, but White confirmed that there will be rewards for the best-dressed pinup and greaser, in addition to other random giveaways throughout the night. Past prizes have included everything from gift cards and cash to quirky trinkets and free drinks.
The Pinups and Greasers karaoke night isn't just about the singing; it's about celebrating a culture of fun, freedom, and spontaneous good times. So, dust off your leather jacket or put a fresh flower in your hair and get ready to jive. The party will be held at Cheers Too on Saturday, Sept. 6, starting at 9 p.m., where the “Shit Show,” as White affectionately calls her karaoke nights, is guaranteed to be in full swing. There is no admission price, no ticket required; just dress up, show up, and enjoy!

When Kristen Rosser and her husband, Grant, were awaiting the birth of their first child, they did what most expectant parents do. They stocked up on diapers, discussed names they liked and researched the best cribs and highchairs.
They also made sure to carefully choose their pediatrician. Kristen knew they wanted a practice that would take their time with the baby, and with them as new parents.
“I wanted to make sure it was a place where we would feel like we weren’t just a number,” she said. “Somewhere I could ask about any concern, no matter how small, and get a real answer.”
She asked around to see who other moms recommended, and that led her to Cape Fear Valley Pediatric Care in Lillington. The location, just a few minutes away, was the first plus for Kristen.
“We live in a rural area where there wasn’t always a ton of access to healthcare,” she said. “But this is right down the road, which is really nice.”
Just days after baby Levi’s long-awaited birth, he had his first visit to the practice. Right away, Kristen said, she knew she had picked the right place.
“From the time you walk in the door to the time you leave, you feel like family,” she said. “They know us when we come in, and they take their time with whatever questions we have.”
Alison Vurnakes, MD, is Levi’s pediatrician and says it’s important for the practice to have that kind of atmosphere.
“We always want this to be a warm and welcoming environment,” she said. “We make a really big effort to make families comfortable so they can feel open to ask us anything.”
That’s especially important with a new baby, Dr. Vurnakes added.
“It’s really hard to have a newborn,” she said. “Sometimes the birth didn’t go the way you expected, or breastfeeding isn’t off to an easy start. And you’re not getting any sleep. So we try to be very reassuring, and almost like cheerleaders, to let them know they’re doing a good job.”
Building that rapport doesn’t just mean a pleasant time in the office, Dr. Vurnakes said. It helps to build an ongoing relationship, which contributes to a healthier childhood overall.
“If I already know a child, and I know their history, it makes it easier to figure out what’s happening when something is wrong,” she said. “If you haven’t met this child, or they haven’t come in regularly, you spend a lot of time trying to get caught up with their history, and you might miss something.”
It also helps parents to feel more comfortable asking about pressing issues and to feel more confident in the answers they get. Dr. Vurnakes said vaccine hesitancy is a good example of this, with misinformation on the rise in recent years.
“I try to reassure parents as much as I can that vaccines are well studied and very safe,” she said. “They need to know there are some serious life-threatening consequences from not being vaccinated, and it’s easier to accept that advice from a doctor they have gotten to know. I think it helps to add that my own children are vaccinated, and I am glad I made that choice for them.”
As her patients grow and have their own questions, Dr. Vurnakes added, having a long-standing relationship with them helps to smooth the path to more sensitive conversations.
“It makes a big difference with teenagers,” she said. “If they're going through bullying or anxiety, depression, peer pressure, they're a lot more willing to talk to you if they feel like they have a connection.”
The teen years are a long way off for baby Levi, of course, but as he approaches his second birthday, Kristen is glad to have found a long-term relationship with Cape Fear Valley Pediatric Care.
“They have always been so quick to respond when he’s sick, and to answer any questions we come in with,” she said. “It’s nice when a doctor’s office truly cares about the community and the people they’re serving.”

Photo:To make an appointment with Cape Fear Valley Pediatric Care – Lillington, call 910-892-4248. Photo courtesy of Harnett Pediatrics)

Cape Fear Valley Health has received a $1.5 million grant from The Duke Endowment to support start-up operational costs for the new Methodist University Cape Fear Valley School of Medicine.
The grant will help fund critical early infrastructure and operational needs for the medical school, which is scheduled to welcome its first class of 64 students in 2026, pending approval from the Liaison Committee on Medical Education. Located on the Cape Fear Valley Medical Center campus, the school is part of a strategic partnership between Cape Fear Valley Health and Methodist University to train and retain the next generation of physicians in the region.
“This grant from The Duke Endowment is a vital investment in the future of healthcare for our region,” Mike Nagowski, CEO of Cape Fear Valley Health said. “It will allow us to build the foundation needed to educate and train the next generation of physicians right here in our community, strengthening our ability to care for those we serve today and for years to come.”
“We are deeply grateful to The Duke Endowment for their generous $1.5 million gift, which will play a pivotal role in establishing the Methodist University Cape Fear Valley School of Medicine,” Dr. Hershey Bell, founding Dean and Chief Academic Officer of the School of Medicine said. “This support will enhance healthcare access and foster workforce development in southeastern North Carolina, empowering us to train the next generation of physicians dedicated to serving our community’s diverse needs.”
Based in Charlotte, The Duke Endowment is a private foundation established in 1924 by industrialist and philanthropist James B. Duke. It supports efforts in North Carolina and South Carolina to nurture children, promote health, educate minds, and enrich spirits. Since its founding, the Endowment has distributed more than $5 billion in grants. While it shares a name with Duke University and Duke Energy, all are separate organizations.
For more information about Cape Fear Valley Health or how to support this initiative, visit www.capefearvalley.com.

Political observers anticipate that Fayetteville's upcoming municipal election will attract a record number of voters. This expectation is significant, especially when considering that the last municipal primary only saw about eight percent voter turnout, with early voting estimated at just three percent.
Voter turnout for municipal elections is consistently much lower than for presidential and midterm congressional elections. One reason may be that municipal elections in North Carolina are usually nonpartisan and occur in odd-numbered years.
A partisan crowd packed the Cumberland County Board of Elections meeting on Aug. 5, ready to protest the potential exclusion of the early voting site at Cliffdale Recreation Center.
They reportedly received an early morning alarm from the Fayetteville branch of the NAACP, Democracy North Carolina, and Common Cause North Carolina, urging them to attend the meeting. Cliffdale is a popular voting site in Fayetteville, located on the west side of the Hollywood Heights subdivision, which is predominantly African American, just off Cliffdale Road.
The level of concern depends on who is speaking. Was there an actual need for worry? Board Chairman Linda Devore stated during an appearance on a WIDU radio talk show the following Friday that Cliffdale was never at risk of losing its status as a voting site, even if the board decided to extend the voting beyond the central election office.
Many African American voters believe that Republicans are suppressing their votes, especially since there have been recent changes in how the composition of local election boards is constructed. Cumberland County has a five-member majority Republican board.
Each term, both the Democratic and Republican parties submit recommendations to the state board of elections for two representatives from each party on the local board. The most recent change is that the State Auditor now appoints the chairman.
These changes are likely fueling the distrust in the system, which some leftist groups are exploiting to motivate voter participation through fear.
Has anyone's vote been suppressed in Cumberland County lately? That shouldn't be the case, but an early morning communication announcing an urgent call to arms can effectively rally the troops.
Fayetteville's issue with voting is not due to suppression, but rather a lack of engagement and interest among voters. Fayetteville has more than 130,000 registered voters, but in the last election, the primary voter turnout was in the single digits, and only about 12 percent of voters participated in the general election.
Approximately 13,000 voters decided for a city with a population of over 200,000 citizens. Around 57,000 voters are African American, while 42,000 are white. With Black voters having an advantage, it's perplexing to hear fears that white conservatives might take over. The numbers don't add up.
Cumberland County will submit two plans to the State Board of Elections because the local board of elections did not reach a unanimous vote. Both plans include two voting locations for early voting in the primary, and both designate Cliffdale as an early voting site. Voter suppression? No, it's just people who aren't interested in voting.

Today’s column revisits our old friends, the Brothers Grimm. The Grimms have been gone for over 200 years, but their stories still have slices of wisdom.
Their tale of when the Cat and the Mouse set up House resonates with current events.
The Russian invasion of Ukraine remains in the news of late. It might be settled by a lasting peace guaranteed by the US, Western Europe, and the gossamer promise of Putin to keep his hands out of the Ukrainian cookie jar. If you can’t trust a promise by Putin, then who can you trust?
Ronald Reagan once said trust but verify Russian promises.
That was so 1980s. No need to verify now. Putin’s word is as good as the fake gold decorating the Oval Office.
Some soreheads with an attention span may recall when British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain made a deal with Adolph Hitler to divide up Czechoslovakia in return for “Peace in Our Time.” Pro tip: Appeasement of dictators does not work.
Watching President Trump’s meeting with Vlad Putin seemed like we had seen this movie before. Dividing up Ukraine to buy peace in our time may be another illusion. Mark Twain pointed out: “History doesn’t repeat itself, but it often rhymes.” Fileting Ukraine does have echoes of carving Czechoslovakia.
Consider Grimm’s fairy tale about the time the Cat and the Mouse played house. Try to spot any similarities to current events. Once upon a time, a tomcat became friends with a lady mouse. (Use your willing suspension of disbelief, this is a Fairy Tale after all.)
After high-level discussions, the cat and the mouse decided they could live together in peace and love. Winter was coming. The cat was concerned about what they would eat. The cat suggested pooling their money to buy a pot of delicious fat to feed themselves in the depths of winter. The mouse agreed, and the pot of fat was purchased.
To safeguard the fat from hungry intruders, they decided to hide the pot under the altar in the church. The cat said no one was low enough to steal from a church. They would retrieve the pot when the cold winds began to blow. Soon enough, though, the cat got a powerful hankering for some of that fat.
He made up a lie that he had been asked to serve as Godfather to his cousin’s baby kitten. He said he needed to leave for the day to hold the kitten at the church.
The mouse was touched by the thought of a baby kitten being christened. She told the cat to go do his duty.
The cat sneaked into the church and ate the skin off the top of the fat. When he returned home, the mouse asked what name was given to the kitten. The cat said, “Top Off.” The mouse thought this a very odd name, but let it slide.
The next day, the cat wanted more of the fat. He told the mouse that another cousin wanted him to be Godfather to another kitten. Mouse, being a bit slow on the uptake, agreed for the cat to leave for the day.
The cat went back to the church and ate half the fat. The cat thought: “Nothing tastes as good as what you eat by yourself.”
On returning home, the mouse asked the name of this kitten. Cat told her, “Half Gone.” The mouse thought that name was weird as well. Finally, on the third day, the cat invented yet another cousin who needed him to be Godfather.
The cat went back to the church and finished off the rest of the fat. On returning home, he told the mouse that this kitten was named All Gone.
This continued to puzzle the mouse.
Finally, winter came. There was no food in the house.
The cat and mouse went to church to retrieve the pot of fat. Of course, the pot was empty when they got there. A light bulb finally went off in the mouse’s head as she realized she had been bamboozled by the cat.
The mouse accused the cat of eating the fat, reciting Top Off, Half Gone, and then All Gone. Before the mouse could finish saying All Gone, the cat leaped on her and ate her.
The Grimms concluded this story saying, “Well, what else did you expect? That’s just the sort of thing that happens in this world.” Cheery ending.
If you substitute Putin for the cat and Ukraine for the mouse, what do you expect will happen to Ukraine?
Ukraine was fooled once before when it gave up its nukes in return for a guarantee that the US would protect its borders.
In Animal House, Otter told Flounder after the boys wrecked his brother’s car: “You screwed up. You trusted us.”
Will Ukraine get fooled again? Remember when the Who sang: “Just like yesterday/ Then I’ll get on my knees and pray/ We don’t’ get fooled again.” Fool Ukraine once, shame on you. Fool Ukraine twice, shame on Ukraine. No pots of fat or Ozempic were harmed in the writing of this column.

(Illustration by Pitt Dickey)

It’s not the biggest threat to public safety, I admit, but panhandling along and often on North Carolina roadways is illegal, dangerous, counterproductive — and commonplace.
During my daily travels in the capital city, I routinely see panhandlers approach idling cars at traffic lights and stop signs to beg motorists for cash. Many have been working their “territories” for so long that I recognize them on sight, as do their regular “customers.”
The panhandlers bring shoulder bags, water bottles, and other supplies to stow on curbs or medians and hold up signs proclaiming themselves to be homeless moms, disabled veterans, or folks just temporarily down on their luck.
They’re not just ubiquitous in Raleigh. I’ve also seen such panhandlers during recent trips to Charlotte, Winston-Salem, and Asheville. Perhaps you’ve seen them where you live, too.
In my day job, I run a charitable foundation that funds shelters, food pantries, free clinics, job training, and substance abuse treatment, among other worthy causes. I believe in the power of philanthropy to alleviate suffering and change lives. But it is unwise to give cash to someone you don’t really know, whose true needs you can’t possibly know, and whose claims may well be exaggerated or fabricated.
It took me a while to learn this lesson. When I moved to Washington in 1988 for my first magazine job, I was unprepared for the lines of beggars in the streets and subway entrances. After falling for their lines a few times, I stopped giving cash and offered to buy panhandlers sandwiches or cups of coffee. Many spurned me.
Then I started offering addresses to shelters and other facilities. Most responded with disdain, contempt, or profanity. After one panhandler tried to rob me, I resolved to channel my charitable impulses more constructively.
When it comes to aggressive panhandling in and around streets, however, the potential harms are greater. It slows traffic and endangers both pedestrians and motorists. It promotes disorder.
And it’s against state law for a person to “stand or loiter in the main traveled portion, including the shoulders and median, of any State highway or street” or “stop any motor vehicle for the purpose of soliciting employment, business
or contributions.”
Municipalities are permitted to make an exception for solicitors who obtain written permission to raise funds on a particular day.
Last month, the city of Raleigh enacted its own ordinance to crack down on panhandling in its streets and medians. “I think we're trying to protect rights, but then also protect the safety of the entire community,” Mayor Janet Cowell told WTVD-TV. “Both the individuals actually panhandling, but also pedestrians, bicyclists, drivers, anyone that is out there in the traffic of a big, congested city.”
Just so.
To the extent other municipalities have yet to clarify what is and isn’t permissible panhandling on public property, their leaders should do so.
Just to be clear: federal courts may well deem as unconstitutional a sweeping ban against panhandling on all public property. The First Amendment, as applied to states and localities via the 14th Amendment, prohibits lawmakers from distinguishing between, say, begging for money and handing out political brochures. Both are protected speech. But when done on public property, both can be subject to reasonable time, space, and manner restrictions.
That renders more defensible limits on forms of solicitation that may imperil public safety or the free flow of traffic, such as North Carolina’s statute and Raleigh’s new ordinance.
Professionals or trained volunteers who minister to the poor are doing the Lord’s work. We should aid them and, if possible, join their ranks. What we should not do is hand cash to beggars in medians or streets.
Very few are temporarily down on their luck. Most are hustlers, addicts, or mentally ill. The former ought to be encouraged to find a safer and more productive line of work. And the latter needs a more effective intervention than cash passed through the windows of passing cars.

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

A school experience goes beyond lessons learned in the classroom. Part of what helps shape well-rounded students are the skills they sharpen and memories they make while engaging in extracurricular activities. Extracurricular involvement shows that students can stick with activities for extended periods of time, indicates they have passions and interests, and illustrates that they can take initiative outside of their schoolwork.
Athletics is a popular extracurricular activity. A love of sports often develops in elementary school, with children participating in recreational or school-based leagues each year. That enjoyment of the game only builds in middle school and high school. However, there are plenty of students who are not sports enthusiasts but still fill their after-school hours with activities that can help cultivate leadership, teamwork, time management skills, confidence, and much more. The following are some extracurricular activities that go beyond the scholastic playing fields.
Arts activities: These can include painting, sketching, ceramics, jewelry-making, and yarn work.
Band or chorus: Music instruction is ideal for those who want to explore a passion for singing or playing an instrument.
Theater: Students can participate in theater productions after school. It's possible to get involved both in front of the curtain and behind with positions in the cast, crew and even promotional team.
Newspaper: Many schools still produce student-led newspapers in print or digital versions. Students handle all of the roles, from reporting, editing, photography, and managing the publication.
Foreign language clubs: Students may want to expand on their foreign language studies by participating in language clubs. Often, these clubs include learning more about the cultures where specific languages are spoken, including exploring culinary delights and possible travel.
Philanthropy: Like-minded students may want to participate in school-organized volunteer activities. These keep students busy, but also benefit recipients in many ways. Activities can include beach sweeps or volunteering at animal shelters.
Coding and programming: Students can learn the basics of writing code and building computer applications or websites.
Culinary arts: Certain schools may be equipped with kitchen facilities and still offer elective courses in culinary arts, while others may reserve cooking classes to extracurricular activities. If a school does not have a culinary club, chances are students can find a cooking class offered through a private group.
There are plenty of extracurricular activities to engage students who are not interested in athletics. Students can also start new clubs if there are deficits in offerings at their schools.