Get ready to be mesmerized by the spectacular display of over 2 million lights at the 4th Annual Fayetteville Holiday Lights event! This year, the event promises to be bigger and brighter than ever before, with a wide array of dazzling lights that create a festive atmosphere for all to enjoy.
From intricate light sculptures to beautiful light tunnels, every corner of Segra Stadium will be illuminated, providing plenty of photo opportunities and moments of wonder for visitors of all ages.
New Additions in 2024
This year, Fayetteville Holiday Lights is proud to introduce several exciting new additions, including the largest light-up Christmas tree in Fayetteville! Standing at an impressive 40 feet, this magnificent tree will be a central feature of the event, sure to captivate all who see it.
In addition to the giant tree, there will be light shows every 30 minutes throughout the ballpark, new themed displays, and for the first time ever, the clubhouses will be open for photo ops and other activities. These new features are sure to enhance the holiday experience and provide even more enjoyment for attendees. A map of the Holiday Lights set up can be found here: https://www.milb.com/fayetteville/events/holidaylights/map

Schedule & Promotions
Fayetteville Holiday Lights is packed with activities and entertainment for the whole family. From visits with Santa Claus to a variety of holiday vendors, there's something for everyone to enjoy. You can indulge in delicious food and holiday-themed drinks as you stroll through the event. Don’t forget to check out the numerous themed displays and lights shows, and enjoy making s’mores at designated areas.
Here is a rundown of the schedule and promotions planned for the duration of the event:
Friday, Nov. 29: Opening Night

Saturday, Nov. 30: Bomber Hat Giveaway/Pints & Lights: The first 500 guests arriving will receive a free bomber hat! Beer enthusiasts can join Pints & Lights, a small beer fest at Healy's Right Field Bar. For $35, visitors get entry to Holiday Lights, unlimited tasting of 12+ beers from 6-8 PM, an all-you-can-eat nacho bar, and a tasting glass! To buy a Pints & Lights ticket visit: https://tinyurl.com/mrxbudz8

Sunday, Dec. 1: Lights & Leashes: Bring your four-legged friends to enjoy the holiday fun. NOTE: Pups enter free. Owners must show current vaccination records & complete a liability form.

Monday, Dec. 2: Military Monday: All current & former service members get a complimentary entry with valid identification. Extra tickets are available at a reduced price of $8 each (maximum of 6 tickets per purchase).

Tuesday, Dec. 3: Silver Bells Tuesday/Bingo at Healy’s: Older adults 55 and up get $8 entry with ID. Plus, guests can enjoy Bingo at Healy's Right Field Bar. Great prizes are up for grabs, including gift cards for restaurants, fun activities, and other exciting rewards!

Wednesday, Dec. 4: Healthcare Appreciation Night: Medical professionals such as physicians, nurses, dental experts, and vets get a complimentary entry with valid work identification. Extra tickets are available at a reduced price of $8 each, with a maximum of 6 tickets per purchase.

Thursday, Dec. 5: Military Appreciation Night: All current & former service members can get a free ticket by showing their ID. They can also buy up to 6 extra tickets at $8 each. Military resources & vendors will be set up around the concourse for visitors to explore. Fans can also enjoy our 4 for $44 deal. This includes four tickets, four hot dogs, and four drinks for ONLY $44 (this offer can't be combined with other promotions). The 4 for $44 tickets can be purchased here: https://tinyurl.com/m2xn3pnx

Friday, Dec. 6: Friday Fireworks: Stick around after Holiday Lights for a fireworks show.

Saturday, Dec. 7: Frozen Movie Night: Come out to Holiday Lights and watch Frozen. Meet Anna, Elsa, and Olaf as they interact with guests. Plus, grab their $50 movie package. Receive four tickets, four popcorns, and four hot chocolates or sodas for just $50! Movie package tickets can be purchased here: https://tinyurl.com/27p2a6c9

Sunday, Dec. 8: Replica Jersey Giveaway/Lights & Leashes: The initial 500 attendees will receive a festive-style replica jersey! Plus, bring your furry companions to enjoy the light show! NOTE: Dogs enter free. Owners must show current vaccination records & sign a waiver for their pets.

Monday, Dec. 9: Military Monday: All current & former service members get a complimentary entry with valid identification. Extra tickets are available at a reduced price of $8 each (maximum of 6 tickets per purchase).

Tuesday, Dec. 10: Holiday Lights: will be closed for a private event.

Wednesday, Dec. 11: Teacher Appreciation Night: Educators can get a complimentary entry with valid identification. Accompanying guests can buy up to 6 tickets at a reduced price of $8 each when accompanying the teacher or staff member.

Thursday, Dec. 12: Market Weekend/4 for $44: Come out to engage with numerous local sellers from your neighborhood. Visitors can also enjoy our special 4 for $44 package. Receive four tickets, four hot dogs, and four beverages for JUST $44 (this promotion cannot be combined with other offers). The 4 for $44 tickets can be purchased here: https://tinyurl.com/m2xn3pnx

Friday, Dec. 13: Market Weekend/Friday Fireworks: Come out and interact with tons of local vendors from your community. Holiday lights are capped off with a fireworks show!
Saturday, Dec. 14: Market Weekend: Local vendors are back from more great shopping.

Sunday, Dec. 15: Movie Night/Lights & Leashes: Holiday Lights Movie Night will feature The Grinch. Plus, enjoy our $50 movie package. Receive four admissions, four popcorns, and four hot cocoas or fizzy drinks for just $50! Additionally, bring your furry companions to experience the twinkling displays! Note: Canines enter free. Pet parents must show current vaccination records & complete a liability form. Movie package tickets can be purchased here: https://tinyurl.com/27p2a6c9

Monday, Dec. 16: Military Monday: All current & former service members get a complimentary entry with valid identification. Extra tickets are available at a reduced price of $8 each (maximum of 6 tickets per purchase).

Tuesday, Dec. 17: Silver Bells Tuesday/Bingo at Healy’s: Older adults 55 and up get $8 entry with ID. Plus, guests can enjoy Bingo at Healy's Right Field Bar. Great prizes are up for grabs, including gift cards for restaurants, fun activities, and other exciting rewards!

Wednesday, Dec. 18: Ladies Night/Paint & Sip: Calling all ladies. Join in for an enchanting evening of dazzling Holiday Lights. Plus, don’t miss out on the fun paint and sip event.

Thursday, Dec. 19: First Responders Appreciation/4 for $44: First Responders receive a complimentary ticket with valid identification. Extra tickets are available at a reduced price of $8 each (maximum 6 per order). Visitors can also enjoy our 4 for $44 package. This includes four tickets, four hot dogs, and four beverages for ONLY $44 (not combinable with other promotions). The 4 for $44 tickets can be purchased here: https://tinyurl.com/m2xn3pnx

Friday, Dec. 20: Friday Fireworks: Holiday lights are capped off with a fireworks show!

Saturday, Dec. 21: Movie Night/Elf Beanie Giveaway/$50 Flicks Deal: Join Holiday Lights for a screening of Elf. First 500 attendees receive a special Elf Beanie! Plus, grab their $50 movie package. Receive four tickets, four popcorns, and four hot chocolates or sodas for just $50! Movie package tickets can be purchased here: https://tinyurl.com/27p2a6c9

Sunday, December 22nd: Lights & Leashes: Bring your four-legged friends to enjoy the holiday fun. NOTE: Pups enter free. Owners must show current vaccination records & complete a liability form.

Monday, Dec. 23: Closing Night/Military Monday: Final night to enjoy all the holiday fun. All current & former service members get a complimentary entry with valid identification. Extra tickets are available at a reduced price of $8 each (maximum of 6 tickets per purchase).

The Fayetteville Holiday Lights will be held at Segra Stadium, 460 Hay Street, from Nov. 29 through Dec. 23. Tickets for all the scheduled nights and promotions can be purchased here: https://www.milb.com/fayetteville/events/holidaylights
All tickets are general admission, giving you full access to the entire event, including the breathtaking display of over 2 million lights, themed areas, light shows, vendors, and visits with Santa Claus.
While this is a walk-through event, there are several areas around the ballpark where guests can sit down, relax, and enjoy the show. Make sure to plan your visit accordingly and take advantage of the various amenities available to enhance your experience.

When Marva Lucas-Moore, owner of LucasMoore Realty, started the Hoops & Dreams Showcase event in 2016, her sole objective was to provide a well-organized and professional basketball event close to home so she wouldn’t have to drive her kids to Charlotte or Raleigh to play before college recruiters.
Underprivileged classmates often couldn’t afford the expense of travel, lodging and food to attend an away event. Her efforts, combined with a partnership with scouting service Phenom Hoops, met with such success that this will be the 7th Hoops & Dreams Showcase. The event attracts basketball fans and college-level recruits from schools in a variety of divisions. Twenty-four 10-man high-school teams will play 14 games. The two-day event will be held Nov. 29 and 30 at the Crown Complex, 1960 Coliseum Drive. Doors open at 10 a.m. and close at 11 p.m. General admission is $25. The first game tips off at 11:30 a.m. and the last one at 8:30 p.m. Scheduling is the same both days.
The words “hoops” and “dreams” are frequently used together in the names of basketball organizations all over the country, but this event was brought to fruition in Fayetteville and remains focused on its home city. Phenom Hoops owner Rick Lewis refers to the area as a hotbed of basketball talent, along with much of North Carolina. The “dreams” part of the name was inspired by former basketball player and rapper Jermain Cole, or J. Cole, who was born on a military base in Germany but raised in Fayetteville.
The Lucas-Moore family decided to incorporate Cole’s positive attitude into the name of the event. Cole refers to Fayetteville as a city of dreams and the name of his record label is Dreamville. In addition to being the first artist signed to Jay Z’s Roc Nation entertainment company, Cole’s had numerous commercial successes through his own label. One that hits home for Darius Moore, Lucas-Moore’s eldest son, is “Love Yourz.” It’s about appreciating what you have and loving your people.
Lucas-Moore and her husband, Donald, a retired Army first sergeant, seem to live by that principle. They raised three highly successful children and handled multiple deployments while keeping their marriage intact and building a multi-sourced financial foundation. All three children excel at basketball. Darius played for Fayetteville State University, where Hoops & Dreams had been held for a number of years until this year’s scheduling conflict. It was a dream come true for Darius to help put on the event where he himself had played. Sister Kendal was a McDonald’s All-American nominee, a USA Olympic trial invitee and played for North Carolina State University and then for the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. In high school, both kids played for Northwood Temple Academy here in Fayetteville, which is where their younger brother Tyler now plays.
Phenom Hoops is an NCAA-compliant scouting service. The first year of Hoops & Dreams, Lucas-Moore was hosting the event herself. Lewis was hosting something similar in Fayetteville. After reminiscing about how Lucas-Moore used to drive Darius and Kendal over two and a half hours to North Mecklenburg High School in Huntersville for drills and skills sessions with Lewis, the two decided to combine efforts into one well-run and high-quality event. Phenom Hoops, with its deep knowledge of players and teams, takes care of the schedule, creating interesting matchups between teams and players, and providing multi-media evaluations on all the players.
Over 200 college coaches contract with Phenom for their services, and the company has built lasting relationships with schools at all levels, including Division I, II and III; National Collegiate Athletic Association; National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics; and National Junior College Athletic Association.
By the end of his college basketball career, Darius saw he’d outgrown his potential in basketball and looked forward to a business career. At first, he provided photography and videography on a freelance business to outlets like the Bleacher Report and SLAM Magazine. Lewis reached out to him to join Phenom Hoops to put together the multi-media presentations the company does of each prospective player. COVID put some of this work on hold, as some schools cancelled their basketball seasons. Darius was passionate about photography and videography, but the pandemic forced him to reassess. He turned to government contracting work as a means of providing steady employment.
The Moores display what it takes for a military family to not only remain intact but to flourish individually and as a unit. Marva at one time owned two hair salons. She’s down to one now, but only because she parlayed the two businesses into ownership of a building that generates rental income for the family. At one point she also had a jewelry business with her twin sister. Meanwhile, Donald deployed to Saudi Arabia, Bosnia and twice to Iraq.
He made it a priority to check in with the family regularly, and Marva kept the kids on track at school and got them to basketball practice. Her real estate business is the proprietary title sponsor of the Hoops & Dreams Showcase, though other sponsors are invited to participate as well. Through LucasMoore Realty, Marva also provides HOA and property management services. In other words, Marva helped build an income-generating livelihood for the family while her husband served the country.
Darius is looking to continue to grow his contracting job with the Army, and Marva is already helping him and his siblings learn to step into the role of stewarding the family’s financial legacy. Part of the family’s success also shows in how successful, polite and positive the children are both to each other and with others. It’s obvious that a strong foundation in faith was emphasized from an early age. Darius speaks highly of his siblings, his sister’s academic excellence—she was salutatorian of her class—and his brother being one of the youngest pilots in the country at age 17. By the time Darius and Kendal finished their junior year in high school, they had finished their graduation requirements. Their parents gave them the option of attending Pine Forest High School for their senior year. Of course, they’d continue to advance their education, but they’d also be able to socialize more with their friends in the public-school sphere.
Darius knows that one of the unintended ministries of Hoops & Dreams Showcase is that it provides a platform for underprivileged kids the opportunity at a college scholarship. In addition to the education offered, many players from North Carolina have played and continue to play at the professional level. Lewis is matter of fact when he talks to students, and his company makes it a point to not just look at player statistics on paper but to meet them and get a sense of their character. Yes, it takes a lot of work to make it to the college level.
There are camps and clinics, some offered by Phenom Hoops, that can help a player improve their skills. But it’s more than that. It's an opportunity, with players open to assessing themselves honestly and planning to improve, and learning how to conduct themselves on and off the court.
Now that colleges are able to swap players without penalty, if they need a certain type of player, they can skip the high-school-level players altogether. It’s a highly competitive game. If skills are comparable, it just might be demeanor that tips the scales in favor of a young Fayetteville player. Dedication might not be enough; character might be the determining factor of the next NBA star from the city of dreams.
For information on scheduling and tickets to the Hoops & Dreams Showcase, visit http://hoopsanddreamsfay.com/.

The holiday season is officially here, bringing with it a wonderful array of local events that you can enjoy and participate in. Whether you are searching for exciting things to do before Thanksgiving, looking for fun activities during that festive week, or even seeking enjoyable events after the holiday, we have compiled a fantastic round-up of events just for you. This guide is organized into categories: Food Events, Shopping Events, Craft Events, and Family Fun. Each section highlights unique opportunities to celebrate the season, indulge in delicious treats, find the perfect gifts, create beautiful crafts, and enjoy quality time with loved ones.
FOOD EVENTS
Thanksgiving celebrates uniting loved ones and community for a delectable feast. Consider these gatherings to explore and enjoy.
Friday, Nov. 15 at 6:30 p.m.
Learn How to Cook Your Holiday Dishes Vegan Style
Prima Elements Holistic Wellness Center, 124 Anderson Street
Join Prima Elements for a fun-filled cooking class where you will learn how to cook vegan-style classic holiday dishes. Visit https://tinyurl.com/4jyewjww

Saturday, Nov. 16 at 6 p.m.
Friendsgiving
CrossFit Intrinsic, 3725 Ramsey Street, Unit 103-B.
Join in at this Friendsgiving potluck hosted at the gym. Visit https://tinyurl.com/4xyara9v

Sunday, Nov. 24 at 12:30 p.m.
Thanksgiving Lunch
Freedom Biker Church Fayetteville, 455 Rock Hill Rd
Join in for the Annual Thanksgiving Freedom Family Luncheon. Visit https://tinyurl.com/mr2mw4p6

Wednesday, Nov. 27 at Noon
Potluck Event with Tabitha
Hoke Country Public Library, 334 N. Main Street, Raeford
Join together with friends, family and neighbors for a holiday potluck event. Visit https://tinyurl.com/5dvncesj

Thursday, Nov. 28 at 7 p.m.
Thanksgiving Potluck
White Rabbit Pub, 3030 Fort
Bragg Rd
Join in for this annual potluck with karaoke after. Visit https://tinyurl.com/2dck2uuc

SHOPPING EVENTS
The holiday season calls for exploring local craft fairs, vendor events, or festive markets to discover ideal presents for your loved ones. Check out these nearby gatherings that offer excellent gift-shopping opportunities.
Saturday, Nov. 16 at 10 a.m.
2024 Mistletoe Market
St. Pauls Possible, Inc, NC Highway 20, St Pauls
Enjoy shopping over 50 vendors as well as food trucks and children activities. Visit https://tinyurl.com/3rnk962x

Saturday, Nov. 16 at Noon
Vinyl Record Show
Dirtbag Ales, 5435 Corporation Drive, Hope Mills
Do you have a music lover on your shopping list? Discover rare records, cassettes and music memorbilia. Visit https://tinyurl.com/4fmzh5ed

Saturday, Nov. 16 at 2 p.m.
Vintage Market & Fall Pop-Up
Just Love Coffee Cafe, 2737 Freedom Parkway Drive
Shop amazing local vendors offering vintage finds, handmade goods and fall favorites. Visit https://tinyurl.com/4pmx3d4t

Saturday, Nov. 16 at Noon
German Christmas Market
Gaston Brewing Taproom, 421 Chicago Drive
Shop 20 local craft vendors and enjoy food trucks, beer, wine and German favorites. Visit https://tinyurl.com/379hb2mv

Wednesday, Nov. 27 at 6 p.m.
Thanksgiving Market
Dirtbag Ales, 5435 Corporation Drive, Hope Mills
Perfect shopping opportunity to stock up on fresh, local produce for your Thanksgiving feast. Visit https://tinyurl.com/3z5y2c3j

Friday, Nov. 30 at 10 a.m.
Unwrapped Shopping Event
Fulfillity Books & More, 5548 Trade Street, Hope Mills
Get gifts for all those book worms on your shopping list and support a local bookstore at the same time. Visit https://tinyurl.com/4nvadz8c

Saturday, Nov. 30 at 11 a.m.
Shop Small Downtown
Downtown Fayetteville
When you shop at local businesses, you are supporting the people that live in your community. Find unique and special gifts for your loved ones this holiday season locally. Visit https://tinyurl.com/3sd3vfax

Saturday, Nov. 30 at 11 a.m.
Christmas Market
Nazro Farms, 145 Bettie Hamilton Lane, Spring Lake
Shop the 3rd Annual Christmas Market and also enjoy food trucks, a visit with Santa, Christmas hayrides and the Christmas Tree Lighting. Visit https://tinyurl.com/3ubhv4a5

Saturday, Nov. 30 at 11 a.m.
Autumn Vendor Fair
505 Cross Creek Mall
Shop this lively vendor fair offering unique handmade crafts and delicious food options. Visit https://tinyurl.com/3h59axck

CRAFT EVENTS
Use your creativity to make a festive craft for yourself or to give as a gift this holiday season.
Wednesday, Nov. 13 at 6:30 p.m.
Floral Pumpkin Standup
Dirty Whiskey, 5431 Corporation Drive, Hope Mills
Make a floral pumpkin standup-the perfect fall decor for any home. Tickets are $70. Visit https://tinyurl.com/3pnkyery

Monday, Nov. 18 at 6:30 p.m.
Christmas Highland Cow Paint Class
J.D. Pone Recreation Center, 2964 School Road, Hope Mills
Join up for a fun and relaxing night of painting a cute Highland cow. Tickets are $35. Visit https://tinyurl.com/bdcmz2du

Tuesday, Nov. 19 at 10:30 a.m.
Craft Out: Joyful Wreath
Bordeaux Community Library, 3711 Village Drive
Make a beautiful wreath using bamboo frames, garlands and ribbons. Visit https://tinyurl.com/yyrrxdua

Wednesday, Nov. 20 at 6:30 p.m.
Glorious Pumpkins
Paddy’s Irish Pub, 2606 Raeford Road, Suite B
Paint a masterpiece of pumpkins to hang in your own home or gift to someone. Tickets are $40. Visit https://tinyurl.com/v4m2apbr

FAMILY FUN
The holidays are about spending quality time with the family. Gather everyone up and enjoy one (or more) of these local events together.
Thursday, Nov. 14 at 7 p.m.
NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet
Crown Complex, 1960 Coliseum Drive
Bring the family to this magical classic with timeless characters and music. Tickets range from $35-$184.Visit https://tinyurl.com/4sfksww7

Friday, Nov. 22 at 8 p.m.
A Christmas Story
Gilbert Theater, 116 Green Street
You remember the movie, now see this classic with friends and family at the Gilbert Theater. Tickets range between $12-$22. Visit https://www.gilberttheater.com/

Friday, Nov. 29 at 10 a.m.
Opening Day
Doby Christmas Tree Farm, 150 Doby Rd, Cameron
It is opening day at the Christmas Tree Farm. Enjoy local vendors, hot chocolate and pick up a tree while you are at it. Visit https://tinyurl.com/2byrk3nt

Friday, Nov. 29 at 1 p.m.
A Dickens Holiday
Downtown Fayetteville
Head downtown and celebrate the 25th year of A Dickens Holiday. Stroll the streets decorated for the season, take in street performers and musicians, shop the variety of vendors and enjoy some seasonal food and drinks. Visit https://tinyurl.com/4659huby

Saturday, Nov. 23 at 7:30 p.m.
Handel’s Water Music Suite
St. John’s Episcopal Church, 234 Green Street
Listen to 20 Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra musicians bring this beautiful suite to life. Tickets range from $6-$35. Visit https://tinyurl.com/4zvfm5du

Tuesday, Nov. 26 at 6 p.m.
Thanksgiving Bingo & Craft Night
Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers, 4825 Ramsey Street
Bring the whole family for a fun night of crafts, bingo and a chance to with great prizes. Visit https://tinyurl.com/kbuvf5ph

Wednesday, Nov. 27 at 6 p.m.
Aloha Safari Park Christmas Wonderland of Lights
Aloha Safari Park, 159 Mini Lane, Cameron
Drive through a Christmas Wonderland of Lights with over 2 million dazzling lights. Get a photo with Santa and visit with the friendly barnyard animals, enjoy hot chocolate, s’mores and other treats. Admission is $10. Visit https://tinyurl.com/y7xb7c8f

Friday, Nov. 29 at 11 a.m.
Black Friday Weekend!
Fort Bragg Harley-Davidson, 3950 Sycamore Dairy Road
Enjoy a free cookout at Harley Davidson during the Black Friday weekend. Visit https://tinyurl.com/bdezm7ms

Saturday, Nov. 30 at 9 a.m.
Family Christmas Event
Bell’s Seed Store, 230 E Russell Street
Santa and Mrs. Claus is stopping by Bells for a family event with a meet and greet, pictures and a craft. Cost is $10 per participating child. Visit https://tinyurl.com/3ecrvy8j

As Thanksgiving approaches, Fayetteville’s community is gearing up for Operation Turkey Fayetteville. This annual event brings the city together to ensure no one goes hungry on Nov. 28, Thanksgiving Day. Led by volunteer coordinator and logistics director Venassia Gunter, this effort mobilizes thousands of volunteers to prepare, package, and deliver warm meals to those in need across Fayetteville, Cumberland County, and nearby areas like Raeford.
Gunter, a leader with a deep commitment to her community, has been at the helm of Operation Turkey since 2015. Her vision has transformed it from a small gathering of 500 meals into an ambitious goal of 10,000 meals this year. There are no qualifications required. To request a meal, contact the website or email meals@operationturkey.com. Meal requests are open until 11:59 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 17. Deliveries will be made between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day.
“We hope to serve 10,000 meals to people who need them,” Gunter explains. “That’s our biggest hope. We also work with local organizations that feed people daily, so they get a well-deserved break on Thanksgiving if they want one.”
For those organizations that still want to be part of the effort, Operation Turkey provides a platform for them to volunteer, keeping Fayetteville’s community spirit alive.
Each year, Fayetteville residents eagerly anticipate the lineup of Operation Turkey events designed to prepare the community for the holiday in stages. The events foster a spirit of service that resonates with participants of all ages, starting with volunteer orientations and culminating in Thanksgiving Day meal preparation and delivery.
Volunteer Orientation: Introducing the Mission
On Nov. 25, Gunter and her team will kick off the event series with a volunteer orientation from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at 606 Johnson St. These orientations provide new volunteers the opportunity to learn about the structure and mission of Operation Turkey, meet their city and site leaders, and clarify their roles. Gunter emphasized that volunteers receive email invitations for orientation, including virtual options and recorded sessions for those unable to attend in person.
“We get volunteers from all walks of life, including families who make this their Thanksgiving tradition,” Gunter notes. “From ages 0 to 100, everyone’s welcome.”
Many families, she says, attend with children who then grow up returning each year, creating a lasting impact on the community.
In recent years, Operation Turkey’s digital footprint has expanded. Their social media platforms—Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn—keep the community updated on every detail, from orientations to volunteer roles and event schedules. This broad reach, including partnerships with social workers, schools, and police, ensures that those in need hear about the service and can request meals as necessary.
The Turkey Tailgate: A Community Comes Together to Serve
On Nov. 26 and 27, the Turkey Tailgate kicks off with a community-centered day of cooking, organizing, and sorting donations at 606 Johnson St. The Turkey Tailgate serves as the backbone of Operation Turkey’s Thanksgiving Day effort, bringing together smokers and Pitmasters, families, and first-time volunteers to prepare essential items for the big day.
“The Turkey Tailgate is one of the most important parts of our operation,” Gunter explains. “We start early, around 6:00 am, and volunteers rotate throughout the day, working in shifts.”
Volunteers at the Turkey Tailgate participate in various activities, such as cooking mashed potatoes and dressing, sorting toiletry donations, and organizing clothing care packages; many return year after year, making the Turkey Tailgate a beloved tradition that bonds participants and builds excitement for Thanksgiving.
The Turkey Tailgate is structured as an assembly line, which Gunter calls the “turkey spa.” Volunteers begin by cleaning the turkeys, giving them an “herb and olive oil massage,” then roasting and cooling them before they’re stored in preparation for plating. Gunter describes the setup as a “community effort, with each person responsible for the next” and adds that the team’s structure allows volunteers to feel confident and connected, no matter their role.
“It’s like an assembly line for turkeys!” Gunter says with a laugh. The stations include food preparation and areas for clothing donations and care packages, all organized so that volunteers can easily find their places and get to work.
The morning of Nov. 28 begins early for Operation Turkey’s volunteers. By 6 a.m., the dedicated team is gathered once more at 606 Johnson St., eager to start the final steps of preparation and distribution. Volunteers of all ages and abilities step into setup, cooking, plating, packaging, and delivery roles.
“The main event is Thanksgiving morning,” Gunter says. “That’s when we bring everything together—the meals, the care packages, and the volunteers who will deliver meals throughout Fayetteville and surrounding areas.”
Gunter estimates that by the end of Thanksgiving Day, the team will have distributed 10,000 meals to families, elderly individuals, and others in need.
For many Fayetteville residents, Thanksgiving wouldn’t be the same without this morning of service. The sight of families working together, the joy of delivering meals to appreciative recipients, and the knowledge that they are helping people who may not otherwise have a holiday meal are experiences that many volunteers find profoundly moving.
One memorable moment for Gunter involved delivering meals late on Thanksgiving evening. She recalls finding a mother with four children who hadn’t eaten in days.
“I cried when I got back to the car,” Gunter says. “The kids were standing at the window waiting for food, and moments like that keep me motivated.”
These kinds of stories resonate with volunteers and keep them coming back each year. Whether it’s a child handing a meal to an elderly recipient or a family sharing a few minutes of conversation with someone in need, Operation Turkey’s impact extends far beyond the plate.
A Tradition That’s Here to Stay
Gunter reflects on how far Operation Turkey has come since she started in 2015. What began as a modest goal of 500 meals has now expanded to 10,000, with thousands of Fayetteville residents eagerly signing up to volunteer each year.
“People hear about us and want to help,” Gunter says. “And as we grow, so does the number of meals we can provide.”
Each year, the numbers continue to rise, fueled by a community that embraces the mission of Operation Turkey and the message it represents.
With new volunteers joining each season, Gunter sees the event continuing to expand and deepen its roots in Fayetteville and beyond. “We’ve become a tradition, something families and friends look forward to. And our goal is to keep growing and serving even more people, not just in Fayetteville, but across North Carolina.”
For Gunter, Operation Turkey is more than just a holiday event—it’s a long-term commitment to her community.
“This isn’t a one-time thing,” she says. “We’re building something that lasts, and we want to keep giving people the support they need.”
To this end, Gunter hopes to inspire volunteers to assume leadership and carry Operation Turkey’s mission to other communities. She envisions an even broader impact, with more local leaders stepping up to make Operation Turkey part of their community traditions.
But at its heart, Operation Turkey remains a community effort. Fayetteville residents, local churches, and volunteers of all ages dedicate their time and energy to ensuring that those in need can enjoy a warm meal on Thanksgiving. Operation Turkey's website allows for meal reservations for anyone in Cumberland County who needs a meal on Thanksgiving, and the team will deliver each meal within Cumberland County’s limits.
“We’re here to support anyone who needs us,” Gunter says. “Whether it’s a hot meal, a friendly face, or a little extra help during the holidays, we’re committed to our community.”
As Fayetteville’s Operation Turkey gets ready to serve more people than ever this year, Venassia Gunter’s leadership and the dedication of volunteers highlight the organization’s mission. Operation Turkey is not just about providing meals; it’s about fostering a stronger, more compassionate community in Fayetteville, one Thanksgiving at a time.
For more information or to volunteer, please contact Operation Turkey Fayetteville through their website https://www.operationturkey.com/ or Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OperationTurkeyFayette

Meal Pick Up Locations

FAYETTEVILLE LOCATION: MAIN:
Fayetteville Chapter, 82nd Airborne Division Association
606 Johnson Street
Fayetteville NC 28304

For those who struggle with transportation or just need a closer location to pick up meals, they offer options through churches and community partnership locations:

Harvest Family Church
6575 Fisher Road
Fayetteville, NC 28304

Cedar Falls Baptist Church
6181 Ramsey Street
Fayetteville, NC 28311

OTHER LOCATION IN NORTH CAROLINA:

Hoke County Open Door Soup
Kitchen
320 Turnpike Rd
Raeford, NC 28376

(Photo: Volunteers prepare for Operation Turkey, a Thanksgiving Day service event for those in need in Cumberland County. Photos courtesy of Operation Turkey Facebook Page)

Wreaths Across America Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery Chapter has a heartfelt mission to honor our fallen heroes and ensure that every veteran gravesite is adorned with a wreath during the holiday season.
Ann Provencher and Barbara Younker, alongside eight dedicated volunteers, are committed to ensuring that no veteran is forgotten.
Provencher emphasizes the year-round effort involved in this noble cause, “We work tirelessly throughout the year to raise awareness of our mission and solicit funding to be able to place a wreath on every veteran gravesite at the Sandhills location and are proud to say that we have been fortunate to have every veteran covered each year (since she has been location coordinator) with the continued support of our local communities.”
Provencher, a military veteran, has been with WAA since 2011. She spent most of her life dedicating her time to helping others.
By donating $34, sponsors help place three beautiful wreaths at gravesites to honor those who served our country. Wreath sponsors also have the option to pay tribute to a loved one or request a specific gravesite for a wreath placement; special requests are warmly welcomed. As part of this meaningful ceremony, all graves will be marked with an American flag the day before—an emblem of respect and remembrance.
Wreaths Across America is a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of gratitude and remembrance that unites us as a nation. The story begins with Morrill Worcester, the owner of Worcester Wreath Company in Harrington, Maine. At 12 years old, he won a trip to Washington D.C., an experience that profoundly shaped his life and the lives of countless others. The sight of the vast rows of graves at Arlington National Cemetery, particularly the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, left an indelible mark on young Morrill's heart—a reminder of the sacrifices made by our veterans for our freedoms.
In 1992, when Worcester Wreath had an excess supply of wreaths at season's end, Morrill recalled his childhood visit to Arlington. He recognized a unique opportunity to honor those who served our country by placing these wreaths on their graves. With support from Maine Senator Olympia Snowe (ret), plans were put in motion for this heartfelt tribute.
As word spread about this initiative, community members remarkably rallied together. James Prout from Blue Bird Ranch, Inc., stepped up to provide transportation for the wreaths to Virginia—an act that demonstrated local solidarity and commitment. Volunteers from American Legion and VFW Posts joined forces with residents to adorn each wreath with traditional red bows, a symbol not only of holiday cheer but also of deep respect.
The culmination of these efforts was a solemn ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery where volunteers laid wreaths upon graves with reverence and dignity. This initiative has since blossomed into a national movement—Wreaths Across America—encouraging everyone to remember, honor, and teach about our veterans during the holiday season.
Since then, millions have participated in this beautiful act of remembrance. It serves as a poignant reminder that while we may have different backgrounds or beliefs, we share a common duty: honoring those who made extraordinary sacrifices for our freedom.
WAA will be holding their wreath laying ceremony on Dec. 14 at noon at the Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery in Spring Lake. Additional wreaths will be placed at the Fort Liberty Main Post Cemetery. Those who help lay the wreaths say the Veteran’s name out loud before placing the wreath on the headstone, an act of remembrance. Help WAA reach its goal of placing 10,000 wreaths this year by sponsoring a wreath through the website at https://bit.ly/3CplFgM.
WAA is always looking for volunteers. For more information on how you can help, call Ann Provencher at 910-670-9280.

(Photo: WAA lays wreaths on veterans' graves for the holiday season. Photo courtesy of Wreaths Across America Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery Chapter Facebook page)

Prepare to be swept away by the grandeur and elegance of Baroque music as the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra presents Handel's “Water Music” Suite. This highly anticipated concert will take place on Saturday, Nov. 23, at the historic St. John's Episcopal Church located at 302 Green Street. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m., allowing guests to soak in the beautiful surroundings before the concert begins at 7:30 p.m.
Commissioned by King George I in 1717, Handel's 'Water Music' is a collection of orchestral movements that were originally performed on a barge on the River Thames. The suite is known for its lively dance movements, including minuets, bourrées, and hornpipes, which entertained the royal audience and the public alike during a grand river procession.
The 'Water Music' suite is divided into three parts and showcases Handel's exceptional ability to compose music that is both grand and accessible. Its joyful and buoyant melodies have made it a favorite for both formal occasions and casual listening, ensuring its place in the canon of great Baroque music.
The concert will feature a chamber orchestra of twenty musicians from the Fayetteville Symphony, many of whom are familiar faces to regular attendees. Under the skilled leadership of Concertmaster Fabian Lopez, who amazed audiences last year with a sold-out performance of Vivaldi's “Four Seasons,” the ensemble is set to deliver an unforgettable experience.
Joining him are other notable performers such as Principal Bassist Rebecca Marland and Second Oboe Ron Ford, both of whom have captivated audiences in the FSO’s Symphony on Tap series. These talented musicians bring a wealth of expertise and passion to their performances, making each concert a unique and memorable event.
St. John's Episcopal Church is not only a historic and beautiful venue but also offers exceptional acoustics that enhance the musical experience. Music Director Stefan Sanders expresses his enthusiasm for performing Baroque music in this intimate and inviting space, noting how the church’s architecture and ambiance perfectly complement the intricate compositions of the Baroque era. Attendees will enjoy the unique opportunity to hear Handel’s music in a setting that truly brings out the nuances and richness of the performance, making the evening even more special.
Tickets for this enchanting evening are available for purchase online at https://www.fayettevillesymphony.org/, by contacting the FSO office at 910-433-4690, or at the door on the night of the concert. The FSO is pleased to offer discounts for seniors, military personnel, college students, children, and Cumberland County Schools employees, ensuring that everyone can experience this remarkable performance.
Join the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra for an evening of musical magic as they bring Handel’s timeless compositions to life in the enchanting setting of St. John’s Episcopal Church. This is an event that promises to captivate the hearts and minds of all who attend.

(Photo: The Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra will be playing Handel's "Water Music Suite" on Nov. 23. Photo courtesy of FSO's Facebook Page)

No other holiday brings out the spirit of the season like Christmas. Each family has traditions that make this time of the year special and unique from church services, special foods, visits with Santa’s and movies; every year brings the nostalgic familiarity of childhood joy. The season is marked by iconic symbolism that sparks the spirit and marks the subconscious ribbon cutting of Christmas time. Nothing says “tis the season” like seeing iconic holiday films flood the airwaves and streaming services.
A Christmas Story is one such movie and the Gilbert Theater is bringing the beloved holiday classic to the stage from Nov. 22 through Dec. 8. Relive some of the most iconic theatrical moments from the stage. Showtimes are Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. General admission tickets are $22 and can be purchased online at https://bit.ly/4hCNp1E or at the box office at the Gilbert Theater.
A Christmas Story is one of the most iconic Christmas movies, with lines like “I Triple-Dog-Dare You!” and “Some men are Baptists, others Catholics; my father was an Oldsmobile man.”
The Gilbert Theater website describes the adapted stage play as, “Based on the 1983 film, Philip Grecian’s play brings humorist Jean Shepherd's memoir of growing up in the midwest in the 1940s to the stage as we follow 9-year-old Ralphie in his quest to get a genuine Red Ryder BB gun under the tree for Christmas. Ralphie pleads his case before his mother, his teacher, and even Santa Claus himself at Higbee's Department Store. The consistent response is ‘You'll shoot your eye out!’ All the elements from the beloved motion picture are here...”
The cast is full of exceptional veteran talent as well as some amazing up and coming actors.
Main Cast Lineup
Katie Herring- “Mother”
A Fayetteville native, Herring is currently a Theater Instructor at Fayetteville Technical Community College. While she hasn’t hit the stage as an actor in a while, she’s excited about dusting off her skills in her role as Mother.
“I haven’t done a whole lot of acting, as of late. I have been focusing most of my attention on directing … I love directing, but I wanted to be on the other side of things,” Herring said.
Herring admits that playing a woman in a different, less modern time has pushed her to leave her own personal ideals at the door. The character still very much resonates with modern women, explaining, “[Mother] is earnest. She loves her husband; she loves her kids. She just wants what’s best for them, but still holds them to a standard and so it’s all very pure and on the surface.”

James Dean- “The Old Man”
A Gilbert Theater veteran, Dean graced its stage for the first time in 1998. A holiday production regular, Dean is most Gilbert famous for his iconic role as Scrooge. Stepping into the role of the Old Man, is a slight and fun deviation from his normal character.
“I’ve done about over 70 plays in my life. I started acting in 1975, so there I am, playing the Old Man. And he’s not called the Old Man because he’s old, ok? He’s called the Old Man because he’s the old man. The Old Man of the family. I’m looking forward to playing with this role. It’s a lot of fun already. He gets chased by dogs and it is pretty funny stuff. I’m getting into it already. It’s just overplaying everything and having a good time,” Dean said.

Denny Orr- “Ralph”
Taking on what could be seen as the most integral role of the production, Ralph, the narrator, is Denny Orr.
“This is my first production at the Gilbert. I’m really enjoying it so far. [I’m coming] from the other side of the world, over there in Southern Pines where I’ve played for just a few shows. [I] caught the bug again about 2 years ago, before that was high school, so this has been a little bit of a journey.
"And what a journey it is. I’m playing Ralph, the narrator, and the fun part of this is this is my memory, dream scenario, everybody plays on the stage, and no one can see me and I interact with all of them, so it’s a hoot. It’s a lot of fun: narrating and speaking to the audience about what is about to happen, what has happened and just playing with the entire scene. I’m really really enjoying it and I’m really looking forward to it all coming together,” Orr said.

CJ Savoy- “Ralphie”
Playing one of the many kid roles is CJ Savoy, an up-and-coming actor who is just getting started with the Gilbert.
“This is maybe my fifteenth show ever and it’s my third show at the Gilbert. My first show was actually last season. I was in Assassins. I was the little boy,” Savoy said. With A Christmas Story releasing over 4 decades ago, Savoy, like many of the kid actors, had to watch the movie for the first time when they were cast. Savoy, who was not the biggest fan, said, “I watched it a day before the first rehearsal. I’m going to be honest… kind of mid.”
But watching a movie and starring in a play production are two totally different things, and Savoy has enjoyed stepping into the role of young Ralphie.
“It’s my first lead ever that’s not at school, and that’s really fun for me, [Because] I just get to do a lot more stuff [than] I have been. I like being busy and also, it’s way easier than I thought it was going to be because Denny has most of the lines. Most of my lines are one to five words. That’s nice,” Savoy said.

Oliver Benander- “Ralphie”
Oliver Benander is another up-and-coming actor on the Gilbert stage. “This is the fourth main stage show. My first play, really. My first main stage play, and I don’t know how many shows I’ve done,” Benander said. While Benander may agree with Savoy on the ease of this production, he does have a different take on the movie, saying, “I think my favorite part of this, I expected it to be, like CJ said, harder. And I used to watch A Christmas Story, the movie, every Christmas, but I kinda like slowly stopped. But I’ve seen the full movie. I think it’s pretty good.”

Sylvia Dean- “Randy”
Stepping into the role of Ralphie’s little brother, is Sylvia Dean. No stranger to the main stage or the Gilbert, Dean is bringing all the fun in her role.
“This is my third main stage at the Gilbert and the Gilbert is the only main stage I’ve done. I’ve done a couple at school and a couple at CFRT summer camps. I’m playing as Randy. I’m really enjoying this role. I love the character. And also not a lot of lines I have to memorize,” Dean said.
Much like her counterpart, Dean was very familiar with A Christmas Story before she was cast saying, “It’s awesome. And I really like the cast. They’re all great too. My dad has us watch it every year. Every single year. I like it a lot. I think it’s really funny and a good Christmas story.”

The stage production has been an utter delight for the cast and Matt Lamb, Producing Second Stage and Education Director. Lamb is making his directorial debut with this production. “I’ve done a lot of shows here but I’ve never directed a show. I did direct some of the GLEE shows. This is my very first main stage, Gilbert show,” Lamb said. Because A Christmas Story is such an iconic movie, Lamb and the cast know that there is an expectation when fans walk through the doors. Lamb explained, “My job is to help the actors tell the story that everyone knows. Everyone knows this story and if you don’t this is a gateway into the film. This is based off the film. So, a lot, 99 percent of what is in that film is in this script, with a few little extra things they put in there for the stage version. Those who know it will be able to almost recite everything. They know it’s coming.”
While taking in the show, attendees can also give back during the season of giving. The Gilbert Theater is partnering with a local nonprofit to provide food and toys for area families in need.
“The Gilbert Theater along with Second Stage and our new charity will be partnering with Second Harvest Food Bank to collect non perishable food items and toys during our holiday show. And they will be donated at the end of the showing,” Lamb said.
This production is set to be a fun, nostalgic and timeless classic, from the enthusiastic cast to the talented director, A Christmas Story will be sure to delight family members of all ages.

(Graphic courtesy of Gilbert Theater's Facebook page)

Diane Wheatley
Cumberland County voters renewed two-term Republican incumbent Diane Wheatley’s seat in the North Carolina House of Representatives, according to unofficial election results.
The unofficial results on Nov. 6 showed Wheatley, who will continue to represent county residents living near the I-95 corridor, earning 24,536 votes. The almost 58% margin of the voter share Wheatley earned is almost the same as in the 2022 midterm elections when Wheatley beat out former district representative and Democrat Elmer Floyd. Wheatley has not lost an election to represent the 43rd District since she first ran in 2020.
Wheatley’s Democrat opponent was Janene (Dublin) Ackles, a business consultant and grant writer with the non-profit Grantastic.
In the 2023-24 legislative session, Wheatley worked on a bill to bring $2.5 million to beautify Fayetteville and another that would prevent Fayetteville State’s name change under the University of North Carolina system. She also co-sponsored the House version of the General Assembly’s Opportunity Scholarship expansion.
Wheatley has long served Cumberland County on governing boards. From 1994 to 2004, Wheatley was one of two at-large members of the Cumberland County Board of Education and chaired the board during her first term. She also was elected to the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners in 2004.

Val Applewhite
State Sen. Val Applewhite will hold onto her seat in the state legislature after a victory over Republican challenger Semone Pemberton and Libertarian challenger Steven Swinton.
Applewhite is the incumbent and was elected to her first term in the state senate in 2022. According to unofficial results as of 1:30 a.m. Nov. 6, Applewhite received 54,761 votes, or 62.81% of ballots counted so far. She leads the district by 25,163 votes. In comparison, Pemberton received 33.95% of ballots counted, while Swinton received 3.24%.
District 19 is solely located in Cumberland County and covers the majority of Fayetteville. The district is heavily gerrymandered, so Applewhite’s victory — as a Democrat in the blue pocket of Fayetteville — was largely ensured.
Applewhite has previously served on the Fayetteville City Council. She is an Air Force veteran and works as a real estate broker.
During her first term, Applewhite sponsored several bills aimed at providing clean water for Fayetteville area residents affected by PFAS contamination. The first-time state senator supports abortion rights and voted against S.B. 20, North Carolina’s 12-week abortion ban. Applewhite also opposes school vouchers included in the state’s fiscal year 2023-24 budget with the Opportunity Scholarship program.
Swinton is the Libertarian candidate. Pemberton is a realtor who recently served as chair of the Fayetteville-Cumberland Human Relations Commission. Pemberton’s campaign gained traction locally, raising almost $34,000 in the first half of the year, and though a Republican, Pemberton has billed herself as the “unity candidate.” In her campaign, Pemberton supported the existing 12-week abortion ban in North Carolina and the state’s school choice voucher program.

Charles Smith
Charles Smith will again represent the North Carolina House of Representatives 44th District after defending his seat against Republican challenger Freddie de la Cruz.
The 44th District is a Democrat stronghold in Cumberland County. Unofficially election results show Smith earning 20,612 votes, or 62.20% of ballots counted so far.
“I’m grateful to the voters of House District 44, and I’m thankful for the people that gave their time, talents, and energy for my campaign,” said Smith in a statement to CityView. “I look forward to a second term in the General Assembly, building on the experiences and relationships gained during my first term. North Carolina has work to do, and I’m excited to get back to it.”
Smith is a single-term incumbent. He was first elected to represent the 44th District in 2022 when he ran unopposed after beating out Terry Johnson in the Democratic primary.
De la Cruz is a retired Army lieutenant colonel who described himself on his campaign website as a “conservative, capitalist, constitutionalist and bible-believing Christian.” He unsuccessfully ran for Fayetteville mayor in 2023.
During his last term, Smith worked on bills that, amongst other things, sought to increase access to broadband in rural areas and provide more information on rape kit status to sexual assault victims. He voted against S.B. 20, which limited abortion access to the 12th week of pregnancy in North Carolina.
Smith focused on Medicaid expansion, public education and early child care while campaigning for reelection. In his responses to CityView’s candidate questionnaire, Smith outlined changes around price regulation that he’d like to see made to the state’s Opportunity Scholarship expansion, including greater government oversight of private schools. Smith also said he would secure more funding for Fayetteville’s Public Works Commissions to install forever chemical-filtering equipment.

Voters have successfully replaced almost half of the Cumberland County Board of Education with new members, unseating three incumbents in Tuesday’s election and casting uncertainty over the board’s future direction with a major shift in membership.
All told, four of the nine school Board of Education members will be changing hands come December, when new members are sworn in. Incumbents Alicia Jones Chisolm, Donna Blackmon Vann and Nathan Warfel lost their seats to challengers Mary Hales, Jackie Warner and Terra Jordan, while incumbents Susan Williams and Deanna Turner Jones held onto their seats. Delores Bell also replaced Carrie Sutton, who did not run for reelection. The board has six district seats and three at-large seats; the at-large board members did not have an election this year.
The changes come at a time when a number of pressing issues face Cumberland County Schools, including low-performing schools, chronic absenteeism, teacher shortages and security concerns including the loss of some school resource officers.
The large member turnover came as a shock to several of the candidates who spoke with CityView. The incumbents all expressed some form of concern over the future direction of the Board of Education with the seismic shift in membership.
Chisholm, who narrowly lost her District 1 after 16 years on the board, said she felt she and her fellow board members “accomplished a lot” during her tenure. Chisholm lost by 325 votes, or 1.91 percentage points, according to uncertified election results. She expressed concern about the inexperience of new members.
“Some people who have never been on a board and don’t know how they operate with a board, they’ll find out that they tell all these lies when they run about what they’re going to do when they get there, but no one person does anything or makes any decisions by themselves,” Chisholm told CityView.
Vann, who also lost her seat on the board after nearly a decade, worried about the board’s ability to continue making progress on existing issues after the election. Vann lost by 2,077 votes, or 10.4 percentage points.
“We have really been on the rise, and I wanted to see the plan, the roadmap to success,” Vann told CityView. “I wanted to see that through and see whether we make the gains and we accomplish what we wanted to accomplish. We were on the road to do it. I would like to have gotten to the end.”
Several board members who spoke with CityView expressed surprise that Warfel had lost to Jordan. Warfel lost by 2,616 votes, or 11.75 percentage points. He has been on the board since 2020.
Speaking to CityView Wednesday, Warfel said he “didn’t understand the strategy employed by my opposition before Election Day,” and described Jordan as a “great political strategist.” He also argued his chance of success in getting reelected was limited based on time and resources he could commit to the campaign because of his family and professional commitments. He is an assistant public defender with Cumberland County Public Defender Office.
“I’m concerned about the direction in which CCS is headed,” Warfel said. “I wish those opposed to what they believed my candidacy represented would have made attempts to discuss their concerns with me about the assumptions underlying their perceptions before labeling me an opponent to their cause. I love the community I’ve grown up in, that my children have grown up in, that I’ve served now for 11 years and the results in this election won’t affect my commitment to this community into the foreseeable future.”
Warfel declined to elaborate on specific assumptions he said were made about his candidacy. Responding to Warfel’s claims, Jordan told CityView she has “no idea what he’s talking about.”
“My philosophy going into this race was that I was going to run my race the way that I thought that was necessary for me to be successful during this time,” Jordan said. “So I did not allow any distractions to allow me to run my race.”
New members plan ahead
Meanwhile, newcomers to the Board of Education told CityView it’s time for a change — and voters have agreed with them. Warner, who beat out incumbent Vann in District 4, said her focus will be on addressing low-performance in schools, chronic absenteeism and advocating for the concerns of students and parents.
“I ran on wanting to be a voice for those that don’t appear to have a voice,” Warner said. “I’m just concerned about the low performance, especially the continual low performance in that district of some of the schools … So what are we doing to stop that progression?”
Warner said she is also passionate about pursuing solutions to chronic absenteeism, which she believes can have a number of contributing factors. Warner is a former mayor of Hope Mills and a retired principal at Cumberland County Schools.
“With high absenteeism, you’ve got to look at what might be the underlying problem,” Warner said. “And a lot of times there’s something about the school. It might be that they don’t feel like they’re cared for, they might not be happy there, it might be bullying, but there’s a lot of that within District 4, too, of students that aren’t going to school.”
Hales, who beat out incumbent Chisolm in District 1, said she wants to focus on improving the county’s low-performing schools, addressing barriers to learning such as hunger and homelessness, increasing student attendance, securing adequate funding and focusing on teacher retention. Hales is a retired principal and worked for Cumberland County Schools for 31 years.
“One of the things that I really, really want to try and get our policymakers — which are the school board members — to try and just think about [is] effective strategies, period,” Hales said. “Especially strategies for enhancing our low performing schools, which we don’t want that number to increase anymore, and encouraging them hopefully to address both the academic and non-academic barriers.”
Jordan, an educator at Fort Liberty, said her focus is on fostering open communication between the school board and the community, supporting student well-being programs and ensuring a safe learning environment
“I want to be, as I said, that voice that connects our school board to the community,” Jordan said. “And just let them know that I thank them from the bottom of my heart, the people that came out and supported me, as I continue this journey. My job is to make sure that I be a light that is set forth for our school board to make sure that we are doing what we need to do and how we need to do it.”
Bell, who retired in 2022 after almost 22 years working for Cumberland County Schools, told CityView she needed to learn more about the roles and responsibilities of Board of Education members before her term starts.
“I know I have a lot to learn,” Bell said. “I got to learn the policies. I have to learn what my job is, what it consists of, what I can and can’t do, or what I can and can’t say. So I got a lot of reading ahead of me before the swearing in, and I’m ready to get started.”
The next chapter
Williams, who managed to fend off challenger Tracy Pelt, said she is looking forward to another term on the board. Her focus will be on school safety, ensuring quality education and supporting teacher recruitment and retention to bolster student performance outcomes.
“So we obviously want to continue to work on getting our children in a place that we feel they’re learning at the level they’re supposed to be learning on,” Williams told CityView. “And we know we’ve made some progress, but we’re not where we want to be. … So I think if we invest in the people who are leading and teaching and guiding our children every day, that all of those things can happen.”
Jones did not respond to requests for comment from CityView.
For the incumbents who lost, the future is uncertain — though not without hope.
“I’m thankful to the relationships I’ve made through my service as a representative of CCS and I hope Dr. Jordan will be at least as passionate in her term as I was in mine,” Warfel said.
Vann concurred.
“It is what it is,” she said. “And all we can do is pray and hope that the decisions they make will be for the good of the school system, the boys and girls and everybody else involved in the school system.”

During the homestretch of the 2024 election, I complained repeatedly about the absence of serious engagement by presidential and congressional candidates with the critical issue of the national debt. Most said virtually nothing about the eye-popping federal deficits of the past few years, while others claimed that excising “waste, fraud, and abuse” or “making billionaires pay their fair share” would solve the problem — which is mathematically impossible.
Today I’ll discuss another glaring oversight: few candidates in North Carolina races, from governor and state legislature to county and municipal offices, have said anything of consequence about the gap between what we need to spend on roads and the revenue we’re collecting from the users of those roads.
Although our state enjoys many advantages, from pro-enterprise tax and regulatory policies to bountiful natural and human resources, inadequate transportation infrastructure will impose constraints on future growth and development.
And in a broad swath of western North Carolina, Hurricane Helene deepened the hole.
My colleague Joseph Harris serves as fiscal policy analyst at the John Locke Foundation. In a new analysis, Harris pointed out that most of the state’s $7.3 billion in revenue to the Highway Fund and Highway Trust Fund last year came from either state or federal taxes levied on motor fuels. Another 18% derived from the Highway Use Tax (essentially a sales tax on autos) and 15% from auto registrations and other fees collected by the Division of Motor Vehicles.
The remaining sliver comes from General Fund taxes — including a portion of the sales taxes applied to auto parts and other highway-related expenditures. When the state legislature began to phase in that transfer a couple of years ago, I said that it “comes closer to meeting our highway needs while respecting the user-pay principle than does any other solution that can be practically adopted at the moment.”
It was a good start. But even when fully implemented, the sales-tax transfer won’t close the gap. As the cars and trucks traversing North Carolina streets and highways become increasingly fuel-efficient, or powered by something other than motor fuel, the amount of tax collected per mile driven will continue to decline — and its purchasing power, due to rising prices for paving material and labor, will decline even faster.
One solution would be to raise the tax rate on motor fuels to offset the effects of inflation and fuel economy. The General Assembly has already done that, in a roundabout way, but I suspect attempting to do it again would provoke a political firestorm.
The more-sensible solution is to charge motorists for using roads not according to how much fuel they buy but to how much they drive. I’ve long supported the idea of a mileage-based user fee to replace the gas tax.
Harris made a similar recommendation, suggesting the version that presents the fewest administrative challenges: an annual charge when renewing a vehicle’s registration, computed by comparing odometer readings. Unlike a GPS-based system, this creates no privacy challenges. On the other hand, there’s no way to know what share of total mileage happened in North Carolina. (Of course, that’s also true for gas taxes, which are collected where you fill up, not necessarily where you drive most of your miles.)
According to his calculations, the state would need to charge $0.0178 per mile traveled to produce the same amount of revenue it currently receives from the motor-fuels tax. That would average about $266 per driver. The legislature would then regularly adjust the rate to account for inflation, which is how the new system would boost revenue over the current (steadily declining) baseline.
Most policymakers I know, Republicans and Democrats alike, recognize that North Carolina must make this change, or something comparable, in order to build and maintain the roads and bridges we need. But earning the trust of North Carolinians on this issue will require talking about it, a lot — which is why I see the just-completed campaign as a missed opportunity.

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).

Americans now know who our next President will be, and plans are well underway for the new administration—who will have a part in it and what they hope to achieve. In the meantime, we, the people, have some thinking to do ourselves.
Germany’s Wurzburg University has developed a Democracy Matrix, a tool for measuring the quality of democracies in nearly 200 nations around the world. Nations are classified as Working Democracies (35 in 2020) and Deficient Democracies (36-81). Everyone else (82-176) is some version of hybrid or autocracy.
Suffice it to say, the United States has not done itself proud, placing # 36 at the top of the Deficient Democracy list. It is a poor and embarrassing showing, but at least better than the lowest-ranked nation, Eritrea, a Hard Autocracy. The top 5 democracies in the world are Denmark, Norway, Finland, Sweden, and Germany, with other European nations, several Asian countries, and a few Caribbean islands rounding out the Working Democracy list.
The state of our United States democracy now and in the future was a hotly debated issue during the Presidential campaign, with ugly words exchanged among candidates, families, and friends, some with painful and long-lasting consequences. There are measures, though, that we can consider and possibly take to protect and improve our democracy.
We must understand and acknowledge that while our Constitution has been the model for other democracies that followed our lead, it is neither infallible nor sacrosanct. It was conceived and written by educated white men in the 18th century who were creating a new form of government that did not address most people, including women and people of color. It is rife with compromises made to reach consensus agreements. The US has adopted only 27 Constitutional amendments in more than 2 centuries, while other more recent and higher ranked democracies view their constitutions as works in progress needing adjustments as time moves forward.
Two Harvard political scientists, Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt, suggest several structural changes to our government in their book, Tyranny of the Minority. One is to elect our Presidents by popular vote, not through the Electoral College, a compromise structure established to keep less populous states from being overpowered by their more populous neighbors. Another is to establish term limits for members of the US Supreme Court. Very few other nations allow life-time political appointments, and few have decision-makers serving into their 90s. The authors also note that the US Senate, like the Electoral College, provides far more clout to less populated states than to more populated, again a Constitutional compromise more than 250 years ago. For example, our least populous state, Wyoming, has the same number of US Senators as our most populous state, California, giving the almost 600 individual Wyoming citizens far more representation than the almost 39-M individual Californians. The political scientists also note that some democracies have done away with their “upper chambers” altogether,” retaining one chamber with representation by population. Both Denmark and Finland have one legislative chamber.
Such changes would require Constitutional amendments, no small achievement. Amendments to our Constitution require a 2/3s vote by Congress and then approval by 2/3 of the states, within 7 years. In other words, it a long and arduous process. The last Constitutional amendment attempted, the Equal Rights Amendment, passed Congress in 1972 but failed when the state approval clock timed out.
As the dust settles on this contentious and painful election year, we Americans of all political stripes would be wise to seek ways to make our government and our elections more responsive to all citizens of the United States.
It is also worth noting that the Harvard political scientists have another book, also about democracies. It is called How Democracies Die: What History Reveals About Our Future.

Kirk deViere's letter below reflects not only his heartfelt commitment to the people of Cumberland County but also the same exuberant sentiments of the majority of our readers.
His Promises Made-Promises Kept commitment is resonating positivity throughout Fayetteville and Cumberland County, and deViere articulates so precisely the kind of leadership Cumberland County needs, wants, and has sorely missed in the past decade.
It echoes my feelings that politics and politicians have become too polarizing, causing misguided priorities and resulting in governmental abuse, waste, and blatant disregard of the citizens they are supposed to represent.
We congratulate Commissioner-elect deViere on his impressive November 5th win and applaud his dedication to the Fayetteville/Cumberland County community.
Local voters have mandated intelligence, integrity, and common sense in the management of our county. Now, they have it.
"Now, let's get to work!"
Thank you for reading Up & Coming Weekly community newspaper.
— Bill Bowman Publisher

Moving from campaigning to governing

As we transition from campaign season to governing, I am deeply grateful for the trust placed in me by the people of Cumberland County. I don't take this trust lightly.
While campaigns are about contrasts and choices, governing requires finding common ground and working together to deliver results.
I commit to being a leader for everyone — those who supported me and those who did not. The challenges facing our community don't care about party labels. Creating good jobs, clean drinking water, improving our schools, ensuring public safety, and housing that working people can afford require us to move beyond campaign rhetoric to find practical solutions.
I've always believed that the best ideas come from listening to the people we serve.
Please know that moving forward, I will continue to "show up" just like I have for many years and keep my "boots muddy," as this is the best way to understand the things that matter, not what we may think is important.
I'm also reaching out to colleagues on both sides of the aisle to discuss the priorities we shared on the campaign trail and in the community leading up to this election. While we may not always agree on the path to achieving these priorities, I believe we can find common ground to achieve them.
The real work begins now. Campaign promises must become concrete policies and results.
This requires careful analysis, thoughtful debate, and a willingness to compromise. I am committed to approaching this work with humility, integrity, and an unwavering focus on delivering results for the people who sent me here to serve, just as I did when I served in the state senate.
Together, we can move beyond the political rhetoric and labels to build a stronger, more prosperous community that works for everyone.
That's my commitment as we turn the page from campaigning to governing. Now, let's get to work.

(Photo: Kirk deViere has served North Carolina and Cumberland County in several capacities. He was elected as Cumberland County Commissioner on Nov. 5. Photo courtesy of Kirk deViere's Facebook page)

"Redefining Indigenous: Indigenous Art of the Past, Present, and Future” runs throughout the month of November at the Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County. The exhibit features 28 different artists from over a dozen tribes spanning the East Coast.
“‘Redefining Indigenous" is a reclaiming and reintroduction of the modern-day Native American experience through the arts,” says curator John ManiQ Whittemore. Whittemore is a member of the Tuscarora Nation of North Carolina and is himself an artist and cultural teacher. He hopes the exhibit breaks stereotypes and challenges what people expect from Indigenous art.
“When you think of Indigenous art, there is a mass-produced style that has been recycled over and over,” Whittemore explains. “I feel this show holds a lot of reverence for our area with works that contain both modern and traditional elements that make up our subculture today.”
The exhibit and events surrounding it coincide with National Native American Heritage Month, which celebrates the achievements of Native American Indians and Alaskan Natives.
According to Stacker.com, North Carolina has the biggest Native American population east of the Mississippi River and the sixth largest in the United States. "Redefining Indigenous" features the works of regional artists from various tribes and showcases them at the Arts Council Gallery, which is on the traditional land of the Tuscarora (NC), Catawba, and Lumbee People.
The month-long exhibit includes two events steeped in reimaging cultural traditions. The Opening Reception gives an opportunity for the community to share refreshments with featured artists, enjoy performances by the Smokey River Singers, and participate in a traditional craft led by artist Frances Sandra Whittemore. Later in the month, the Redefining Indigenous Expo opens the gallery for curated Native vendors, including BsBeadFantasies, Scuffletown Suppliers, and The Lune Tree.
For Whittemore, the exhibits and coinciding events represent a connection between the artists’ experiences and the representations of those experiences through their art.
“I’m most excited to see the different stories and ideas and moments told through the works that give a deeper detail in the Indigenous experience of this modern time.”
"Redefining Indigenous” will be on display in the Arts Council’s gallery until Nov. 29 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The "Redefining Indigenous" Expo is on Nov. 21 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
For regular updates on the Arts Council, follow the organization @artscouncilfay on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and/or YouTube.

(Graphic courtesy of the Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County)

"Clay symbolized renewal and reincarnation. It alludes to the infinite possibilities of clay and the capacity to start all over again and be reborn."
— Symbolism of Clay, Ceramic Arts Studio,
Barcelona

Cape Fear Studios presented the Clay Invitational Reunion on Oct. 25. This exhibit will be open until Nov. 19. Stan Simmons and Robert Helsel are potters/artists featured in this exhibit. Simmons and Helsel were members of Cape Fear Studios from 1994-1998. Robert Helsel was stationed at Fort Liberty (then Fort Bragg). His artistic expertise is clay and textures via the Raku technique. Stan Simmons is a Potter/Artist. His expertise within the clay medium is traditional. These are two of Cape Fear Studios favorite artists.
The Clay Invitational Reunion is located at Cape Fear Studios, 148 Maxwell Street, Fayetteville. The studio is open Tuesday to Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free to the public. Cape Fear Studios can be contacted at 910-433-2986.
According to Wikipedia, Ceramic art consists of clay and other materials. Clay is shaped in various forms inclusive of tableware, figurines, and sculpture. Pottery is one of the oldest human art activity and inventions originating before the Neolithic period. Pottery dates back to 29,000 – 25,000 BC.
Clay is an abundant material found in lakes, ponds, streams in all parts of the world. Ceramic Arts was the source of every-day cookware, tableware, and food storage for early civilizations. There are five clay art techniques: Terra Cotta, Polymer Clay, Raku, Ceramics, and Sculptural Ceramics.
Terra Cotta is Italian for “baked earth." The clay is fired but not glazed. It reflects warmth and simplicity. Polymer Clay is based on the combination of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). The clay is soft and malleable and becomes firm when placed in the oven. This is an effective technique for figurines.
According to Soul Ceramics, “Raku technique dates back to 16th century traditionally crafted by hand and not thrown on the Potter’s wheel. The glazed ceramic is taken from the kiln while still glowing red hot and placed in a combustible material such as sawdust or shredded newspaper. The item is starved of Oxygen which creates the colors within the glaze. Raku creates a unique design each time.”
Ceramic is processed with the kiln. The clay is shaped into a form and fired at intense heat for durability and tensile strength. Ceramic Arts are inclusive every-day dinnerware to abstract arts.
Sculptural Ceramics is represented by highly textured and interplay of rough and smooth surfaces. It can have realistic or abstract expressions.
Jill Dieffenbach, Board Member of Cape Fear Studios and Potter shares these insights about the exhibit, “What makes this show a must-see is to experience the creative diversity of the two potters as they follow two different approaches towards clay. Stan Simmons follows the traditional approach with clay with the use of form and creative glazing and firing. Robert Helsel combines traditional form with creative use of the Raku technique. Both Potters combine the best of clay art techniques.”
For more contact information, Cape Fear Studios via phone at 910-433-2986 or website, https://capefearstudios.com.

(Photo: One of the many pieces of ceramic art is displayed at Cape Fear Studios. Photo courtesy of Cape Fear Studios)

While wine often takes center stage at Thanksgiving, craft beers and hard ciders offer a unique and flavorful alternative that can elevate your holiday feast.
Why Choose Beer for Thanksgiving
Beer is a versatile beverage that can complement a wide variety of flavors found in a traditional Thanksgiving meal. From the rich and savory flavors of roasted turkey to the sweet and spicy notes of pumpkin pie, there's a beer out there that can enhance each dish.
Additionally, the craft beer scene has exploded in recent years, offering a plethora of unique and seasonal brews that are perfect for the holiday season. Beer also tends to have a lower alcohol content than wine, making it a more sessionable choice for a long day of feasting and socializing.
When it comes to pairing beer with turkey, you'll want to consider beers that can stand up to the rich, savory flavors of the bird without overwhelming it. Belgian Dubbel and Tripel are excellent choices, as their malty sweetness and spicy undertones complement the roasted flavors of the turkey.
For those who prefer something a bit lighter, a Pale Ale or a Helles Lager can provide a nice balance. These beers offer a crisp, clean finish that can cut through the richness of the turkey and gravy, refreshing your palate with each sip.
Side dishes and appetizers offer a range of flavors and textures, from creamy mashed potatoes to tart cranberry sauce. A versatile beer like a Saison or a Farmhouse Ale can pair well with many different sides, thanks to their complex flavor profiles that include fruity, spicy, and earthy notes.
For cheese and charcuterie boards, consider a Belgian Witbier or a Gose. These beers are light and refreshing, with a hint of acidity that pairs wonderfully with rich, salty cheeses and cured meats. For heavier sides like stuffing or sweet potatoes, a Brown Ale or a Bock can provide a nice malty counterpoint.
As your Thanksgiving meal winds down, it's time to think about dessert. Dessert beers are typically richer and sweeter, making them a perfect complement to pies, cakes, and other sweet treats.
A classic choice is a Milk Stout or a Chocolate Stout, which offer flavors of roasted malt, chocolate, and coffee that pair beautifully with chocolate or pecan pie.
For something a bit more festive, consider a Pumpkin Ale or a Winter Warmer. These beers often feature spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, echoing the flavors of pumpkin pie and other holiday desserts.
One important tip to consider when serving beer is the temperature. While many people enjoy their beer ice-cold, some styles are best served at a slightly warmer temperature to fully appreciate their complex flavors.
Another tip is to offer a variety of beers to suit different tastes and pairings. Providing a selection of light, medium, and dark beers can ensure that there's something for everyone. Finally, don't forget the glassware. Serving beer in the appropriate glass can enhance the drinking experience, allowing the beer's aromas and flavors to shine.

Why Choose Hard Cider for Thanksgiving
Hard cider can complement a wide variety of dishes and like beer it is often lower in alcohol than wine, making it a more sessionable option for a long meal.
With its crisp, refreshing taste and variety of flavor profiles, hard cider can add a unique touch to your Thanksgiving feast. Plus, it's a great way to introduce your guests to something new and exciting.
Hard cider comes in many different styles, each with its own unique flavor profile. There are sweet ciders, which can be reminiscent of apple pie, and dry ciders that offer a more subtle, refined taste. Some ciders are infused with spices, fruits, or even hops, creating complex and intriguing flavors.
Understanding these flavor profiles can help you choose the right cider for your Thanksgiving meal. For instance, a dry cider can act as a palate cleanser between rich dishes, while a spiced cider can enhance the flavors of your holiday desserts.
When it comes to pairing hard cider with your main Thanksgiving dishes, the possibilities are endless. A classic roast turkey pairs beautifully with a semi-dry cider, which balances the bird's savory flavors. If you're serving ham, consider a sweeter cider to complement its saltiness.
For those who prefer beef or lamb, a bold, tannic cider can stand up to the rich, hearty flavors of the meat. Vegetarian main courses, such as stuffed squash or mushroom risotto, also pair well with a variety of ciders, from dry to semi-sweet.
Side dishes and desserts offer even more opportunities for cider pairings. A dry cider pairs well with savory sides like stuffing, green bean casserole, and roasted vegetables.
For mashed potatoes and gravy, a semi-dry cider can cut through the richness and add a refreshing contrast.
When it comes to desserts, the right cider can elevate your sweet treats to new heights. A spiced cider pairs wonderfully with pumpkin pie, while a fruity cider complements apple pie and other fruit-based desserts.
For chocolate desserts, consider a cider with a hint of tartness to balance the sweetness.
To make the most of your hard cider pairings, consider serving it in appropriate glassware. A wine glass or tulip-shaped glass can help concentrate the cider's aromas, enhancing your tasting experience. Be sure to chill your cider to the right temperature; most ciders are best served between 45-55°F.
Additionally, offering a variety of ciders can cater to different tastes and preferences. Set up a cider tasting station with an assortment of styles, allowing guests to sample and find their favorites.
This can add an interactive and fun element to your Thanksgiving celebration.

Join in on Nov. 16 at Carver Creek State Park - Ramsey Street access (995 McCloskey Rd) for the Red Apple Run! Whether you choose to walk or run in the 5K or 10K events, your participation will directly impact those who rely on Better Health’s mission. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against diabetes and improve health outcomes across our community.
The Red Apple Run for Diabetes is not just an event. It is a vital opportunity to support Better Health, an organization dedicated to bridging gaps in healthcare services in Cumberland County. Since its founding in 1958, Better Health has been at the forefront of initiatives that promote diabetes awareness, education, and self-management clinics. They also tackle pressing issues such as childhood obesity prevention and education, ensuring our youth have the resources they need for a healthier future.
Christiana Adeyemi is the Executive Director at Better Health of Cumberland County. She shared that she has been working with Better Health since 2022 and is humbled to work with a great team, and proud to be a part of their legacy of 66 years of excellent service to the citizens of Cumberland County. Adeyemi, a long-term Cumberland County resident and military spouse of 26 years with over 20 years of Non-profit experience, enjoys the reward felt when their services unite communities and help in the fight against diabetes.
Diabetes is a serious health condition that affects millions of people worldwide, and understanding its implications is crucial for everyone. There are two types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. Both can manifest at any age and, what’s particularly alarming is the rising incidence of diabetes among children. This trend highlights the urgent need for awareness and education.
At its core, diabetes occurs when glucose levels in the blood become excessively high. If left unmanaged, both types can lead to long-term complications that develop gradually but can ultimately escalate to life-disabling or even life-threatening conditions. That’s why it’s vital to recognize the warning signs early on.
Monitoring your A1C glucose levels is an essential step in managing your health effectively, coupled with a commitment to proper dieting and regular exercise. By being informed and vigilant, you safeguard your health and contribute to a broader culture of awareness around diabetes—one that could save lives in our communities.
In addition to educational programs, Better Health provides essential services like medical equipment loans and emergency medical assistance for critical prescriptions, dental care, vision needs, and even travel assistance. This nonprofit organization relies heavily on the generosity of local foundations and community donors to continue its mission.
Registration will be open until ten minutes before each race starts—8:30 a.m. for the 10K and 8:45 a.m. for the 5K. The races offer scenic running through longleaf pine forests. They are also seeking additional sponsors who can help amplify the efforts. Sponsor donations are: Presenting Sponsor $3000, Big Apple $2000, Apple Pie $1,000, Apple Sauce $500, and Apple Seed $250. Your support directly impacts those living with diabetes in our community.
Awards will be given out for both races: the top three overall finishers (male or female) and the top three in age groups. Come join not only for a run but also as part of something bigger—a movement toward better health for everyone in Cumberland County.
Last year, the event saw nearly 100 participants. This year, they hope to surpass that number. So, get out your running shoes, and if you can't join the race but still want to contribute to this noble cause, please visit their website at https://better-health-of-cumberland-county-inc.networkforgood.com/

The holiday season is frequently regarded as the most joyful and delightful time of the year, filled with celebrations, gatherings, and festive cheer. However, for individuals who are grappling with food insecurity or struggling to find their next meal, this time of year does not evoke the same feelings of joy and happiness. Instead, it can be a period of stress and worry.
Fortunately, there are many resources available in our community that offer vital assistance to those in need, ensuring that everyone can experience some level of comfort during this special season.

Thanksgiving Meals
Rivers International Church
113 Foch St, Fayetteville
910-670-1354
https://www.riverschurchnc.org/
They will be serving a Thanksgiving meal. Call for the exact date and time.

We Are One Big Family
Fayetteville Day Resource Center
128 S King St, Fayetteville
910-708-0205
They will be passing out Thanksgiving meals on November 27 & 28. Call for exact times.

Operation Turkey Fayetteville
682-226-2724
operationturkey.com

Meal Pick Up Locations

FAYETTEVILLE LOCATION: MAIN:
Fayetteville Chapter, 82nd Airborne Division Association
606 Johnson Street
Fayetteville NC 28304

For those who struggle with transportation or just need a closer location to pick up meals, they offer options through churches and community partnership locations:

Harvest Family Church
6575 Fisher Road
Fayetteville, NC 28304

Cedar Falls Baptist Church
6181 Ramsey Street
Fayetteville, NC 28311

OTHER LOCATION IN NORTH CAROLINA:

Hoke County Open Door Soup
Kitchen
320 Turnpike Rd
Raeford, NC 28376

Food Pantries
Be sure to call or visit the websites listed for additional information needed like whether you will need to show ID, if a referral is required or if there is a limit on the number of visits.

St. Paul's Full Gospel Food Pantry
602 Mann Street, Fayetteville
910-486-0202
http://stpaulfgbc.org
Food pantry is open on Wednesdays from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Charity Church Food Pantry
431 Neville Street, Fayetteville
910-484-8764
http://charity-church.org
Food pantry is open every third Saturday from 10 a.m. to Noon.

Village Baptist Church Food Pantry
555 North Reilly Rd, Fayetteville
910-678-7178
http://thevillagebc.church
Food pantry is open every 3rd Tuesday from 10 a.m. to Noon.

Holy Trinity Episcopal Church Food Pantry
1601 Raeford Rd, Fayetteville
910-484-2134
http://www.holytrinityfay.org/serve
The food pantry is open for walk-ins Monday-Thursday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Alms House Food Pantry
3909 Ellison Street, Hope Mills
910-425-0902 https://almshousehopemills.com/index.html
The food pantry is open Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Anderson Creek Community Church
2085 Ray Road, Spring Lake
910-436-0548
http://andersoncreekcommunitychurch.com/ac³-ministry-center
Food pantry is open on Thursdays 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Cruciform Church of Christ
360 Pinetree Lane, Spring Lake
910-447-2767
http://www.cruciformcoc.com/ministries/food-pantry
Food pantry is open twice a month. Call for specific dates.

Operation Blessing of Fayetteville
1337 Ramsey St, Fayetteville
910-483-1119
http://operationblessingfayetteville.com
Hours of operation are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Closed daily from Noon to 1 p.m. for lunch.

Catholic Charities-Fayetteville & Newton Grove Regional Office
726 Ramsey St, Suites 10 & 11, Fayetteville
910-424-2020 Ext. 2601
http://www.catholiccharitiesraleigh.org/fayetteville-programs
This food pantry operates by curbside pickup on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to Noon.

Second Harvest Food Bank of Southeast NC
406 Deep Creek Rd, Fayetteville
910-485-6923
https://hungercantwait.org/find-help/find-food/
Second Harvest Food Bank is a collection site where they distribute their food to other charities, churches and food pantries. The link above provides the locations where someone looking for food assistance may find some help.

HAND-EE
12254 Highway 210 South, Spring Lake
910-497-7100
http://hand-ee.org
They have a variety of food distribution and community services. Please call for more details.

Saint Pauls United Methodist Church Food Pantry
406 W. Main Street, Saint Pauls
910-865-4301
https://www.rise4me.com/resources/st-pauls-united-methodist-church-food-pantry/
Food pantry is open on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month . Please call for information on hours.

Loft Assistance Center
62 Joint Rd, Spring Lake
919-495-1415
Open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

New Hope Baptist Church
293 Bethel Baptist Rd, Spring Lake
910-497-1033
Food pantry is open the 1st & 3rd Monday of the month from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

FTCC Food Pantry
Horace Sisk Building, Rm 708, 2204 Hull Rd, Fayetteville
910-678-0077
This food pantry is only open to FTCC students. The hours are Monday thru Thursday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Beatitude House
102 N. Main St, Spring Lake
910-496-0925
Food pantry is open Thursday & Friday from 10:30 a.m. to Noon and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Christ United Methodist Church
3101 Raeford Rd, Fayetteville
910-484-3340
Food pantry is open Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Cliffdale Christian Center
6427 Cliffdale Rd, Fayetteville
910-864-4911
Food pantry is open the third Wednesday of each month. Date may variety around holidays. Call to confirm hours.

Fayetteville Dream Center
336 Ray Ave, Fayetteville
910-568-3897
Food assistance is available on the 1st & 3rd Thursday of the month from 10 a.m. to Noon.

First Baptist Church
302 Moore St, Fayetteville
910-483-6505
Food bags are available on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 10 a.m.
Gray's Creek Christian Center
3028 School Rd, Hope Mills
910-485-3005
Open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. until Noon.

Harry Hosier United Methodist
6201 Milford Rd, Fayetteville
910-864-6019
Food pantry is open the 1st & 3rd Friday of the month from 10 a.m. to Noon.

Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church
118 Johnson St, Fayetteville
910-868-2770
Food pantry is open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to Noon.

Person Street United Methodist Church
509 Person St, Fayetteville
910-483-4714
Food pantry is open the 1st & 3rd Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Seth's Wish
330 S. Cool Spring St, Fayetteville
910-476-6613
Food pantry is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Simon Temple AME Zion Church
441 Donray Dr, Fayetteville
910-867-1183
Food pantry is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

St. Matthews United Methodist Church
202 Hope Mills Rd, Fayetteville
910-425-0401
Food pantry is open Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to Noon.

True Vine Ministries
5301 Morganton Rd, Fayetteville
910-867-6762
Food pantry is open Tuesdays and Thursdays 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

The Church at Cedar Creek
4010 Cedar Creek Rd, Fayetteville
910-483-6895
Food pantry is open Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Closed on holidays.

Soup Kitchens/Eat-In Programs
Fayetteville Area Operation Inasmuch
531 Hillsboro St, Fayetteville
910-433-2161
They offer a breakfast program Monday thru Friday starting at 7:30 a.m.

Person Street United Methodist Church
509 Person St, Fayetteville
910-483-4714
Community kitchen is open the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Salvation Army
245 Alexander St, Fayetteville
910-483-8119
Lunch daily at 12 p.m.

Seth's Wish
330 S. Cool Spring St, Fayetteville
910-476-6613
Hot meals served Sundays at 1 p.m.

Simon Temple AME Zion Church
5760 Yadkin Rd, Fayetteville
910-867-1182
Breakfast on Saturdays at 7 a.m. 100 plates are distributed into the downtown community. Call for more information.

St. Matthews United Methodist Church
202 Hope Mills Rd, Fayetteville
910-425-0401
Lunch served on the last Wednesday of each month from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Hoke County Open Door Soup Kitchen
308 N. Main St, Raeford
910-875-2111
Open Tuesday & Thursday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Other Resources
Cumberland County Coordinating Council on Older Adults
339 Devers St, Fayetteville
910-484-0111
Home delivered meals. Call for more information.

Cumberland County Department of Social Services-
1225 Ramsey St, Fayetteville
910-677-2433
Applications for Food & Nutrition Service Program are accepted Monday thru Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call for more information on requirements.

Pumpkin spice, cool temps and … country music? Yes, indeed!
Fall favorites and tantalizing tunes unite in Fayetteville, home to Southeastern North Carolina’s biggest country music showcase. Presented by John Hiester Chrysler Dodge Jeep and John Hiester Chevrolet, the WKML Stars & Guitars Concert comes to the Crown Coliseum for the 12th year on Nov. 11 at 7:30 p.m. Featuring a mixture of hitmakers and newcomers to the country music stage, the popular promotion stages five artists in a unique, acoustic setting.
Fans will enjoy a spectacular night of great music, engaging live entertainment, a few surprises and the opportunity to support a good cause. A portion of the ticket proceeds benefits St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Here's the lineup for this year’s SOLD-OUT show:
• LOCASH
• Zach Top
• George Birge
• Kameron Marlowe
• Tigirlily Gold
If you can’t pick just one favorite, the good news is you don’t have to! Compliments of The Big 95.7 ‘KML, Today’s Country, and Stars & Guitars’ generous sponsors, Fayetteville gets them all!
Chart toppers, record makers, social media sensations and no strangers to country music fans, these artists have and are making names for themselves across radio and other platforms.
As no one performer headlines, opens or closes the Stars & Guitars show—all the artists are on stage simultaneously and perform individually in rounds—concertgoers experience a true cross-section of talent. The artists sing songs, share stories, tell jokes and wow audiences year after year. The show’s “Unplugged, Unscripted and Unforgettable” tagline best describes the scene.
Beasley Media Group Digital Programming Director and Marketing and Promotions Director Brandon Plotnick explained the “why” behind the WKML Stars & Guitars event.
“The idea here is to celebrate country music with our listeners and market audience. We have a unique position in the industry, and we can put together something with a relatively big-name lineup every year. The affordable show is the biggest country show in our market,” he said.
The concert is also part of the station’s mission to assist St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. This is the 38th year WKML and the Beasley Fayetteville team have proudly supported St. Jude's families and children.
This November’s Stars & Guitars concert and the December St. Jude Country Cares, the longest continuous radiothon campaign in the country, are among several ways the company supports this cause.
The station’s listening audience, covering Raleigh to Myrtle Beach and concentrated in Cumberland and Robeson counties, has filled the house for Stars & Guitars for 12 straight years, and this year will be no exception. During the Aug. 30 early pre-sale, available to members of the WKML free All-Access Club, the limited number of tickets sold out in three minutes.
The in-person regular ticket buyers—another sold-out situation—celebrated at the WKML’s Parking Lot Party at the Crown. These sellouts have not prevented fans from winning tickets in several other ways, including Ticket Stop opportunities and online and on-air contests—with chances still remaining.
Three Ticket Stops—chances for YOU to win tickets—remain before the Nov. 11 concert: Nov. 7 at the Holly Day Fair, hosted at the Crown Expo Center, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Nov. 8 at Timely Treasures, 1003 Honeycutt Rd., from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; and Nov. 9 at John Hiester Chrysler Dodge Jeep of Lillington, 940 N. Main St., Lillington, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Get all the details, including info on the Grand Prize VIP Experience, featuring front-row tickets, VIP pre-show passes and an autographed poster, at https://wkml.com/listicle/2024-stars-guitars-ticket-stop-calendar/.
Named “country music’s iconic feel-good duo” by PEOPLE, LOCASH, Preston Brust and Chris Lucas, levels big-hit sounds reminiscent of tunes from the 2000s.
Pumping up the crowds with Florida Georgia Line kind of energy, LOCASH has a pop-country feel that gets audiences singing and shouting for more. The circa 2015 band has eight charting singles, two successful albums, nearly 800 million global streams and a history of industry award recognitions. Announcing their 2024 partnership with 44 Farms, LOCASH recently supported Kane Brown’s DRUNK OR DREAMING TOUR.
Stars & Guitars attendees are likely to hear the duo’s smash hits, “I Love This Life,” “One Big Country Song” and “I Know Somebody,” along with other big-name collaborations.
The classic country sounds of Zach Top channels 90s nostalgia that wins with the WKML audience, according to Plotnick. Top released his first radio single, “Sounds Like the Radio,” at the top of 2024 via Leo33; he will join CMA Entertainer of the Year, Lainey Wilson, on her “Country’s Cool Again” Tour throughout the year following the release of his debut record, Cold Beer & Country Music. The Sunnyside, WA, native grew up ranching, tending to livestock and playing bluegrass music—the backstory to his love for country music today.
A TikTok sensation after the posting of “Beer Beer, Truck Truck,” George Birge is an original songwriter with two records currently on the radio: the chart-topping “Mind on You” and “Cowboy Songs.” Country artist Clay Walker and country rapper Colt Ford, among many others, have recorded Birge’s songs, and Walker even released Birge's co-write “Need a Bar Sometimes” as his new single.
“George Birge has a modern, gritty country feel to his music and is particularly appealing to the 20-something young female audience,” Plotnick said. “He has a Morgan Wallen kind of vibe.”
Kannapolis, North Carolina, native Kameron Marlowe, who formerly rocked Fayetteville’s Dogwood Festival, is happy to return to the city to play Stars & Guitars. Described by Plotnick as an “earthy, sort of alt-country artist with tension and meat behind his music,” Marlowe’s biggest hit, the Platinum-certified single “Giving You Up,” earned over 57 million views on YouTube. He’s also had hits with “Girl on Fire” and this year with Ella Langley on the song “Strangers.” The rising star from Season 15 of The Voice, who grew up singing in church, is currently touring alongside some of country music’s biggest stars. Marlowe is considered one of Nashville’s most exciting emerging voices and songwriters.
The duo Tigirlily Gold—North Dakota sisters Kendra and Krista Slaubaugh—have played music together practically since birth. They officially formed their band in high school and toured the mid-west, selling out amphitheaters across their home state of North Dakota.
Nashville was their next residence, where they earned a weekly spot at Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row on Nashville’s famous lower Broadway. The emotional pop country sounds of Tigirlily Gold propelled the band onto the country scene, where their debut single, “Shoot Tequila,” reached the Top 40 and went viral.
The duo’s hit single, “I Tried A Ring On,” released earlier this year, is currently finding huge airway success. Tigirlily has already debuted on the Grand Ole Opry and the TODAY Show, so why shouldn’t Fayetteville be next?
The 2024 WKML Stars & Guitars concert is a can’t miss! Tap into all your chances to win by tuning into The Big 95.7 and visiting https://wkml.com/.

(Graphics courtesy of Beasley Media Group)

On Nov. 14, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., the U.S. Army Airborne & Special Operations Museum will host a special event featuring Brad and Jess Halling, founders of BHAWK Whiskey Distillery in Southern Pines. The evening promises an engaging experience with whiskey tastings, appetizers, and a presentation by the Hollings, offering attendees a glimpse into their journey from military service to establishing a premier whiskey brand.
Brad and Jess Halling have deep connections to the Fort Liberty community and the wider military world. Veterans themselves, they are active in veterans' charities and have combined their love for whiskey and their desire to give back to the community through their Southern Pines-based BHAWK Distillery.
The event, designed for whiskey enthusiasts and military community members, will include whiskey tastings accompanied by expertly paired appetizers. In addition to the tastings, Brad and Jess Halling will deliver a presentation highlighting their personal and professional journeys, blending their military backgrounds with their passion for craft whiskey production.
Non museum members can purchase tickets for $75 per person or $125 per couple. Museum Friend Member tickets are $65 per person or $100 per couple. Active-Duty tickets are $50 per person (ID required at the door). You must be 21 or older to attend.
Brad and Jess Halling’s journey to founding BHAWK Whiskey Distillery began with a shared passion for whiskey and wine. Their vision was establishing a community-focused space that blends premium whiskey production with an immersive experience.
While many are familiar with their success in the distillery business, their background in military service is an equally important part of their story.
Brad Halling's distinguished military career spans nearly two decades. Beginning in 1983 with the 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), Brad deployed to Honduras as part of a group of military advisors supporting a now-declassified operation. His time with Special Forces would later take him to Poland with the 10th Special Forces Group and to Berlin.
One of the defining moments of Brad’s career came during the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu, Somalia, when he served as part of Task Force Ranger. Brad fought in what is now regarded as the longest sustained firefight since Vietnam, later depicted in the film Black Hawk Down. During the battle, Brad’s helicopter, Super 62, was hit by a rocket-propelled grenade, resulting in the amputation of his left leg above the knee.
Despite this life-altering injury, Brad remained on active duty, becoming the first above-knee amputee to return to complete military service and ultimately retire from the Army.
After retiring in 2000, Brad pursued a graduate degree in prosthetics and worked in Long Island, where he was present during the 9/11 attacks. This experience prompted him to return to Fort Liberty, where he continued to train Special Operations Soldiers until founding BHAWK Whiskey Distillery.
Jess Halling's military career is also impressive. Enlisting in the U.S. Army Reserve in 1991 as a Russian linguist and interrogator, Jess completed her law degree at Hamline University and was commissioned as a Judge Advocate in 1998.
Jess’s Army career included vital roles with the 101st Airborne Division, U.S. Army Special Operations Command, and Joint Special Operations Command. As a legal advisor, Jess was instrumental in advising senior commanders on national security law and providing legal oversight to deployed Joint Task Forces. She was stationed in Korea, Turkey, Iraq, and Jordan during her military service.
Her dedication to the military extended beyond her legal duties. Jess graduated from both Airborne and Air Assault schools, completing Survival, Escape, Resistance, and Evasion training.
The BHAWK Whiskey Distillery serves as a destination for whiskey lovers and a hub for supporting veteran causes. The Nov. 14 event extends this mission, offering a space for veterans, military members, and civilians to connect and share stories over a glass of world-class whiskey.
Whether you're a whiskey enthusiast or want to support a local veteran-owned business, this evening is inspiring and enjoyable. The Hallings’ passion for their craft and community will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on all who attend.
Visit the U.S. Army Airborne & Special Operations Museum website for more information and to register for the event at https://airborne-and-special-operations-museum-foundation.springly.org

North America’s largest touring Nutcracker production will perform at the Crown Complex on Nov. 14 as part of their 32nd annual tour. The group averages 100 performances across North America during the holiday season and has been described by the LA Times as “Disarmingly poetic.”
Such high praise comes as no surprise given the rich history of Tchaikovsky’s classical ballet, reimagined with fresh additions such as acrobatics while still paying homage to the original intent. According to their website, the production is a multicultural masterpiece that “combines the highest caliber ballet with historic international theatrical traditions, 10-foot-tall playful puppets, 9 intricately hand-painted backdrops, and hundreds of exquisite costumes.”
Dan Talmi, Producer of NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet, says this year will see an incredible international cast featuring dancers from Tokyo and Rome, as well as local dancers from the Blume School of Dance who will participate in the NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet’s “Dance With Us” program.
Talmi described the Dance With Us program’s mission as giving American children an educational and theatrical opportunity to experience the arts with high-end practitioners from around the world. It begins with professional cast members traveling the U.S. and holding auditions with local studios. The local studios then maintain rehearsals until the day of the show, when local dancers rehearse at the theater with the entire cast and then perform that evening. Their involvement includes participating in traditional backstage preparations like wardrobe, makeup, and hair.
“It’s a big to-do,” Talmi explained.
He said the local dancers play snowflakes and mice in the party scene. These roles complement the professional cast and bring an “incredible energy and vitality” to the stage, according to Talmi. He described it as a “totally unique experience for local American kids” and said that their presence on the stage is “a very cute thing.”
Talmi said he thinks the event is something that can’t be reproduced virtually. “It’s not enough to get it through the screen.” He explained. The show took a two-year hiatus as a result of the Covid pandemic. Still, Talmi said he believed it has survived because people need human connection.
According to him, the production is about family, first memories, and going to the theater with grandparents, parents, and kids.
“The show is just kind of a vessel for that family, American experience."
He said watching the crowd react as the house goes dark and everyone gets excited for what’s to come is “the best feeling,” and added, “We’re just excited to get to production day!”
Viewers who want to extend the magic of watching the show can purchase add-ons with their tickets. Available add-ons include a cookie decorating pre-show experience, photos with a ballerina, and a branded souvenir.
The cookie decorating experience includes a hot chocolate bar with Christmas decor and music, along with supplies to decorate 3 cookies. Photos with a NUTCRACKER! Ballerina will occur before the show, during the intermission, and after the show. Digital, downloadable images will be available within 72 hours. The branded NUTCRACKER! souvenir is an official wooden nutcracker that the website describes as a perfect stocking stuffer. It can be ordered along with tickets and picked up at the show.
NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet is Nov. 14, 7 p.m. at the Crown Complex. Tickets can be purchased at crowncomplexnc.com.

(Photo: Dancers perform in the NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet. Photo courtesy of NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet)

Every adult can recall their favorite game and the ribbons they collected by showing their physical eliteness in activities like dodgeball and the three-legged race. Fayetteville NEXT is bringing back the nostalgia with its Adult Field Day event on Sunday, Nov. 10 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Festival Park, downtown. The event is free to the public. Those interested in participating can form a team and pre-register using this link https://bit.ly/48r8t7j
Ten teams will battle it out to be crowned the adult field day champions. Each team must have 5 members and each member must be a least 18 years old. Check-in for teams starts at 10 a.m. Games will be played from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
For those not competing there will be other physical activities for attendees. There will be a designated area for yoga courtesy of YogaSix, a boot camp, and dance fitness. Sanji Clyburn and Kids N Sports will be on hand to make sure the kids enjoy themselves and can participate. These activities are also free to the public. DJ Yoda will be on hand to provide the entertainment and keep the energy up for the “athletes” and spectators.
Hosting this inaugural event is Fayetteville’s very own Rock 103 personality, Dominique Womack.
“I was a fan of anything that got me out of Math and Science and anything that started with “Field” which was mainly Field Day and Field Trips! Not to toot my own horn, each year I was super excited to dominate in the egg and potato sack races… [I look forward to] seeing the sense of community through sport and games. Things are dark in the city and we need to watch people work together and laugh. This event will also focus on a passion of mine which is mental health awareness. Mixing laughter, togetherness, and fresh air will give you a recipe for a delicious solid recharge,” Womack said.
This event isn’t just about recreating childhood fun, it’s about overall wellness. Cape Fear Valley, Becoming Counseling Services PLLC (Jessica Jones), Select IV Hydration, Cycle Bar and YogaSix will be vendors at the event.
Fayetteville NEXT Advisory Commission Vice Chairwoman, L’queitah Miller said, “A Fayetteville NEXT Adult Field Day was an idea of Dymond Spain (Fayetteville NEXT Commissioner). We were attending the Ugly Sweater Social last December at Segra. Dymond, awestruck by the amount of attendees at the event, comes to me and says we should have an Adult Field Day! When she said that, I said that’s it! That is what the city needs, a day of fun, a day to get away and to be amongst friends and colleagues,” Miller said. “Since then, our team has been committed to making this day possible. We want to bring people together for a great cause and allow them to unleash their inner child. We want the public to leave on that day with total holistic wellness: mind, body, and soul.”
No event can happen without food, and this event is no different. Cooler than Cold, Vee’s Seoul Kitchen, Kwons Treats, Savory Southern Cuisine, and Fat Bob’s Taco will be on hand to fuel participants.
Miller is excited about the event and hopes that the community will come out and see what the city has to offer.
“We want to show the young adults what the City of Fayetteville has to offer. We want the young adults to know that we have listened to their ideas. We have collected the data, and the young adults have been consistently sharing that they just want to have a great time just like our surrounding areas. With their support, we can continue to listen to your ideas and make events like this happen as we continue to push our mantra, Stay, Play, in Fay,” she said.
Miller and the Fayetteville NEXT Advisory Commission are excited to welcome the community and appreciate the efforts of those who have made this event possible and free.
“We would like to thank the City of Fayetteville for their support, our liaisons and Assistant City Manager Jodi Phelps and staff, and Fayetteville’s City Council and our liaison Councilman Malik Davis for their support. We would like to thank all our partners, vendors, and followers for making this vision happen.”

With a ceremonial turning of dirt shovels, Cumberland County officially launched construction of the Crown Event Center downtown at 2 p.m., Oct. 25.
The $145 million project is being built on the County Courthouse parking lot on Gillespie Street between the old county courthouse and the current county courthouse. It’s scheduled to open in spring 2027.
Cumberland County Board of Commissioners Chairperson Glenn Adams addressed attendees at Friday’s groundbreaking, referencing the milestone in construction of the downtown venue.
“This facility will not only enhance our community’s cultural landscape but also serve as a catalyst for economic growth in Cumberland County,” Adams said. “We are proud to move forward with a project that reflects the aspirations of our community and positions Cumberland County as a regional leader in the arts and entertainment sector.”
The Event Center is to replace the Crown Arena and Crown Theatre at the Crown Complex on Coliseum Drive off U.S. 301 South and Owen Drive.
The Arena and the Theatre were built in the late 1960s. A county news release says the Event Center is intended to be a multipurpose center for concerts and performances, banquets and conventions, and other activities.
The Event Center will have about 134,000 square feet, with a three-story main event hall for audiences of about 3,000, the news release says, and plans call for a rooftop terrace.
“Equipped with state-of-the-art back-of-house facilities and performer spaces, the center is designed to provide an exceptional experience that will keep both patrons and artists coming back to Cumberland County,” the news release says. “Additionally, there will be several meeting spaces available for use either independently or in conjunction with the other areas in the building.”
The Event Center is being paid for with revenue from Cumberland County’s restaurant food sales tax. Also called a prepared food-and-beverage tax, the county began levying this 1% tax on prepared food and beverages in the 1990s to pay for construction of the Crown Coliseum.
The Event Center has been years in the making, since the county was sued in 2014 under the Americans With Disabilities Act by a woman who used a wheelchair. She said she struggled with getting through doors, reaching her seat, using restrooms and otherwise attending events at the Crown Complex.
The Crown Complex includes the Crown Coliseum, the Crown Expo Center, the Crown Arena, the Crown Ballroom and the Crown Theatre.
To settle the lawsuit, the county commissioners in December 2015 promised to make all the facilities ADA-compliant.
The county made upgrades to the Coliseum, Ballroom and Expo Center to make them more accessible to people with handicaps and comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. These venues will continue to operate. The commissioners decided to replace the 1960s-era Arena and Theatre with the Event Center with a modern facility.
At the Oct. 25 groundbreaking ceremony, Cumberland County Commissioner Jimmy Keefe said the venue would provide an important space for actors, musicians and other artists in the area.
“This facility is not just about meeting today’s needs; it’s about anticipating the future as Cumberland County continues to grow,” Keefe said.
Parking lot being erased
With construction of the Event Center, the parking lot in front of the courthouse is shut down. It has been a go-to parking lot — with no charge for parking — for people who visit the courthouse and other nearby county offices, and who patronize downtown businesses and events. The parking lot is to be replaced with a $33 million parking deck that is due to open in spring 2026.
In the meantime, visitors with business at the county courthouse are advised to park at several other parking lots in the vicinity.

(Photo: Cumberland County officially launched construction of the Crown Event Center on Oct. 25. Photo courtesy of Cumberland County)